Monday, December 27, 2010

One Fish, Two Fish...

Following a crush of last minute errands, wildly packed parking lots, and other varied Holiday madness, the Eve of the Eve took an unexpected turn for the very best when my dearests and I headed into the city for some music, spirits, and sushi.

I suppose traditions are what you make them- content and inspiration left to ones own discretion... this was a pleasant first.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

The Sum

In between preparing for the holidays, relocating, embarking on a new career path and catching up with old friends- I've managed to squeeze in time to work on a little something special that I can't wait to share with you all.
The wheels have been turning for over a month now and while it's only in its early stages, I know it's going to be the beginning of something more memorable than I ever could have thought possible. Stay tuned and have a fabulously refreshing, nondenominational Holiday ;-)

Monday, December 6, 2010

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Combative



I'm pretty sure I just found the shoe that personifies my mood lately. I'll let you know what comes of my quest to track them down.

Steven by Steve Madden 'Axee' (Similar versions include the 'Harllem' and the 'Troopa' - also by Steve Madden)

Photos Courtesy of www.coolspotters.com

Monday, October 18, 2010

Singular Sensations

Call it laziness, but being dressed and out the door in one slip of a garment, just feels good. Rompers and jumpsuits take the guesswork out of ensembles and that's a life-saver. Though the weather has become cooler since that first photo was taken, I still find myself reaching for a 'onesie' in a pinch. I layer a biker jacket or cardigan over it and no one is the wiser.

Left to Right-- Black & White Floral Print: Liberty of London for Target, Linen Belted: Forever 21, Metallic Cropped Biker: Forever 21, Brown Studded: Forever 21

Sunday, October 3, 2010

D-Lighted

My darling Dinah, the dearest one that put together that .99 Store Earthquake Kit-- Well, I could go on and on about her graces but for today, I wanted to share this UH MAY ZING invitation that she sent to my attention last week. Of course, the brilliant little thing put this whole thing together with her own two hands! I was so blown away that I took it work and displayed it on my desk so that everyone could see how lucky I am to know someone who remembered me in such a creative way. If you haven't already visited her blog, head on over to The crave list -- Also, she has recently debuted her Halloween Cup Kozy and the design is really fantastic!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Royal T

As a child, when the time for school supplies came, I was most excited about the Crayons. I don't know about anyone else, but I was supremely excited if the 64-Count box of Crayolas- with the built-in sharpener, landed in the cart. My friend Danielle and I compared notes one day and she said that she used to go straight for the Silver and Gold, avoiding Cornflower, Sepia, and Burnt Sienna- as those were her least favorites in the bunch. I recalled with great clarity, always reaching for the Cerulean. This tunic is a bit of a deeper shade, but I love the richness of it.

I titled this post 'Royal T' because my dear friend Tami, who is a striking redhead, looks fabulous in this shade of blue and each time I pull it from my closet, I'm often reminded of her.
Tunic: Express, Mummy Leggings: Urban Outfitters, Shoes: Steve Madden, Clutch: Karla's Closet for Coach, Bracelet: Kenneth Cole

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Productive

Hello Darlings! How did everyone spend their weekend? I made my moms killer meatballs, got caught up on some reading, and did a little thrifting. Found a couple of beakers at my local Discovery Shop- a creative way to display the tools that put me together in the morning and a good solution for getting things out of the drawer and within arms reach.
The past two days were equal parts productive and relaxing. Off to catch 60 Minutes and The Women Who Dress America, with a glass of white and a chenille throw for comfort.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Fatigued

The three-day weekend was exceptional in every way, but I promised myself that I wouldn't leave the house, spend a dime, or lift a finger for the next two days. So far I've been true to my word, but a lunch-hour mini haul may have had something to do with my new-found enthusiasm to lay low and save.

I'm sure I'm not the only one flipping through the gargantuan Fall Preview issues of all of the major fashion publications this month- and setting eyes on utility jackets, dresses and trousers on nearly everyone. Frankly, this is a trend that should excite us all. It's versatile, inexpensive and requires minimal maintenance; no dry-cleaning, delicate cycle, or ironing required.

I meant what I said about staying below my wallet's radar for the weekend, but I don't think a quick trip into my local thrift store on a Friday afternoon for a $10 jacket- should be counted against me. It was a weekday, it was inexpensive, it was on my Fall 'Must-Have' list and I went straight back to the office to eat the lunch I packed that morning, immediately after. No harm, no foul... sort of ;)

Cargo Jacket: Banana Republic, Dress: Willow & Clay, Bag: Zara, Shoes: M.O.D., Aviators: Cole Haan

Monday, September 6, 2010

Citrus

I'm rarely disappointed when I convince myself to ease out of my comfort zone and into an element of fashion that I wouldn't normally be drawn to. It's usually a silhouette or a style that meets my resistance, but this season it was as simple as a color. For years I've shied away from yellow- and while I can't recall when or why it started, I've successfully overcome my aversion. Several pieces in this lively hue caught my eye this summer; a few even made their way into my closet.

Silk Slip Dress: Romeo & Juliet Couture; Silk Pleated Camisole: Saks 5th Avenue, Silk Embellished Top: Ecote; Button Down Shirt: life/after/denim; Short-Sleeve Ruffle Collar Jacket: Forever 21

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Sated

These were a few of the things that put a smile on my face this week; hydrangeas blooming gloriously outside my front door, one of many pastry counters at Porto's, and a sunny afternoon drive with my besties in tow. I'm especially smitten with my lavender polish :)

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

White Hot

My besties snuck up on me late Friday night and it was THE MOST glorious surprise anyone could ever ask for! As always and in all things, their timing is impeccable. We stayed up 'til dawn, stuffed ourselves to the gills with Cuban pastries in the morning, shopped beach-side in the afternoon, roared with laughter over a pitcher of Sangria in the evening and cruised the city in style on a blissfully, lazy Sunday morning.

Slip Dress: BB Dakota, Belt: Target, Bag: Karlas Closet for Coach, Heels: GUESS

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Make Me A Bird

It seems everywhere I went this weekend, the patrons were friendly and the proprietors, attentive and kind. Every meal was spectacular and every conversation, delightful. I can't name the catalyst, but I firmly believe that turning off my cell phone on Friday night- may have urged the abundance of silver linings over the last two days. I wasn't tense or preoccupied, I wasn't lost in a storm of emotions, and I wasn't longing for anyone or anything that wasn't already before me. Thank God for small miracles... oh, and gorgeous earrings ;)

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

All A Flutter

I'm obsessed with yellow and grey. That's all folks ;)
Cardigan: Isabella Rodriguez, Top: Saks 5th Avenue, Jeans: Mossimo/Target, Sunglasses: Cole Haan

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Debbie Downer

So, I'm just going to come right out and say it. . . the last three weeks have been HELL. The expression on my face in the second photo has pretty much been a mainstay during the month of July and frankly, I'm relieved to leave it behind.

Since I can't bear to leave this post on a sour note, I will say that the one glorious thing that happened this month was an early morning, spontaneous trek, down to my old stomping grounds to visit with my nearest and dearest :)

Dear August, Whatcha got?

Cardigan: Isabella Rodriguez, Tee: Splendid, Shorts: Mossimo/Target, Bag: Karla's Closet for Coach, Aviators: Cole Haan

Saturday, July 24, 2010

No Reservation Required

'Date Night' dinner was a bust. Nothing hurts more than spending money on a bad dining experience. I'll be doing things a little differently this week.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Sunshine

This old denim shirt was purchased 5+ years ago at an H&M in Manhattan while on a business/pleasure trip with my mother and sister. I love the shirt but I love the memory even more.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Baby Blues

Shirt: American Eagle Outfitters, Skirt: Forever 21, Belt: Fossil, Bag: Coach (Thrifted), Shoes: GUESS 'Rally'

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Meet Your Match

I think it's pretty safe to say that 'Nudes' aren't going anywhere. Everything about this subtle, flattering hue screams: SEXY! If you don't already own a pair of nude heels, do yourself a favor and find some. They make your legs look a mile long and go with everything in your closet. What's not to love?

Shameful Omission: Noticeably absent from this photo are my Holy Grail, Nude GUESS Slingbacks (the ones that appear in most outfit posts); lets just say that for the sake of this photo, they are far to "broken-in" to pass as anything less than offensive ;)

Dress (Left): Twelve by Twelve, Dress (Right): Go International/Target, Heels: Nine West 'Lucero' in Light Pink, Bustier: Victoria's Secret, Bra: Calvin Klein, Boy Shorts: Fayreform, Sunglasses: Max Studio

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Chambray

I’m always thrilled when an article of clothing that I had the good sense to hold on to, comes back around- proving itself to be timeless. I’m a little less pleased when a closet purge goes awry and the foresight required to see something as a staple, escapes me. I’m ashamed to admit that a perfectly worn-in denim jacket, fell victim to the donation pile last year and I’ve never forgiven myself. Fortunately, the kind people at American Eagle not only make fabulous jeans, but the perfect jacket as well. It was love at first sight of this lightweight, weathered denim and the small studded detail was enough to make me swoon. Strong enough to make an impact, subtle enough to go the distance.

Denim Jacket: American Eagle Outfitters, Romper & Fedora: Target, Oxfords: Boutique 9 'Rizing'

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Something Blue

Nope, not getting married :) Just sitting here thinking about the fresh and crisp color scheme that lends itself to all things nautical. Try as I might, I couldn't muster anything 4th of July inspired, the stars escaped me and the stripes- well, they're just not a good idea at the moment. Maybe there's something buried in my closet that'll suit tomorrow's festivities. . .one can hope. In this sunny, blissful interim- a voluminous skirt, a stack of magazines and a bowl of raspberry gelato will suffice.

Tank: Target, Skirt: Jean Paul Gaultier for Target, Heels: GUESS, Cuff & Necklace: Forever 21

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Common Ground

My Love-to-Hate relationship with flats has been well-documented here, but I’m so excited to have finally found an equivalent I can agree with. . .oxfords. I don’t know how this trend slipped past me, but I’m glad I caught it in time to find a pair that I like.

The formal cut and laces make them feel more refined than a regular ballet flat and the crackled, metallic leather make them diverse enough to pair with most anything in my closet; dresses, skirts, jeans, trousers. Very exciting! Best of all, they were a gift :) The summer is looking good!!

Dress: Target, Tulle Skirt & Silk Top, Urban Outfitters, Oxfords: Boutique 9 'Rizing'

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Small Victories

There was a particular morning a few months back, when I awoke in the worst kind of funk. I dragged myself through the day, forcing a smile and willing myself to stay focused. Finally on the drive home, I glanced over at my phone- and realized that every single person that I hold near and dear, had reached out to me that day. I remembered that a co-worker treated me to lunch that afternoon and recalled that someone who played an integral part in a recent promotion, payed me a special visit just to say 'Hello'. It sometimes slips my mind to stop and look for the Blessings each day, but when I do- I'm never disappointed.

Dress: Urban Outfitters, Cropped Biker Jacket: Tracy Feith for Target, Shoes: Steven by Steve Madden 'Ginn'

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Potential

I rarely buy a garment or even an accessory without first picturing it with something I already own, but every once in awhile something slips through the cracks; these silver-detailed, cobalt suede pumps were one of them. It'll take some experimenting but I look forward to it-- the dress-up game is the best part.

Tank Dress: Target, Heels: Dollhouse, Bracelets: Express & Kenneth Cole

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Suit Yourself


Sorry darlings, I wouldn't dream of actually being photographed in any of these for the blog, so this haphazard arrangement will just have to do. Amazing how little it takes to start a collection, but I think us California girls get a pass when it comes to bikini's and cover-ups ;)

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Little White Dress

It's quite possible that my little white dresses have outnumbered my little black dresses and that's fine by me. Don't get me wrong, those sexy dark numbers aren't going anywhere but I do find myself reaching for that light, bright, feminine look both day and night during these long summer days. I picked up the most recent (first photo) in the mad dash mentioned in my previous post and at $13.80, it was indeed a Fabulous Find!!

1st Photo: Dress: Forever 21, Shoes: GUESS, Bag: San Diego Trading Company, 2nd Photo: Dress: JCrew, Shoes: GUESS, 3rd Photo Dress: McQ by Alexander McQueen for Target, Belt: L.A.M.B., 4th Photo: Dress & Shoes: GUESS, Scarf: Nine West

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Barbados

I came upon this lovely silk maxi dress at Loehmann's a couple of weeks back. It was just one of the stops on my frenzied, marathon-run through LA trying to put together my idea of the most perfect wardrobe for a tropical locale. In the end, it didn't make it into my suitcase, but that had less to do with its practicality and more to do with my fear of lost luggage :) Looking forward to wearing it to Brunch tomorrow.

Dress: Tea and Honey

*Photo Courtesy: Jezzabelle Boutique*

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Raid

Recently, I spent some time with my two favorite people- my mother and little sister. It was my nephews First Birthday and I flew cross country to share in the celebration. It was quite the surprise to see how much they've both grown and changed.

There once was a time when my sister and I would tear through a store, scoring one fabulous find after another; now with the bundle in tow- we have to be very precise and calculated with our selections because the little man's tummy waits for no one! This dress was one of those snatch and dash pieces and fortunately for me, it fit and I loved it.

Cropped Leather Biker Jacket: Tracy Feith for Target, Dress: Simply Vera by Vera Wang for Kohl's, Necklace: Target, Shoes: GUESS

Saturday, May 1, 2010

May Day

There's just no doubt about it, Spring has definitely sprung and it's just our good fortune that there isn't much else to do except settle into this precious season with ease. I picked up some fresh flowers last weekend, switched the linens from the jewel tones of Fall and Winter to the lighter, brighter hues of Spring and Summer; And this week, I'll be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with friends- I'm excited! More importantly though, I've inadvertently developed an obsession with devouring publications and podcasts related to various environmental issues and human interest stories. If you have a moment to spare, please do check out Annie Leonard's The Story of Bottled Water -- I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.

Dress: Rodarte for Target, Shoes: GUESS

Monday, April 26, 2010

Too Good

While I don’t exactly have a point of reference, with the exception of a handful of fashion bloggers who’ve rolled the dice on this look- Truth be told, I have fantasized about scoring a pair of leather shorts. Even if I only had the nerve to rock them in the privacy of my own home, they would be totally worth the cost of admission-- which in this case, was $9.99 to be exact...

One rushed Friday afternoon, one crammed clearance rack at Urban Outfitters, a split second decision, exactly one minute in the checkout line and they were mine. All things considered, a 97% discount is more than enough motivation to lose the 15 pounds necessary to look even ½ as good as Sarah Howard looks in hers.

Leather Shorts: Sophomore

*Photo Courtesy of Chrissie Miller for Opening Ceremony Guest Blog*

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Inches

The motivation to get my Spring Cleaning underway came a few weeks after the actual change of season, but it's never too late to lighten the load. These are a few of the darlings that didn't lose their place in the wardrobe this year.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Excuses, Excuses

Well. . . my computer took ill a couple of weeks ago and no one was around to take photos :( I didn't want to lose another day without a post, so I scrounged this one up from a couple of months back just to keep things going until I have a chance to share some of the fun pieces I've found in the last month or so.

I hope everyone had a lovely Easter Sunday!

Faux Leather Jacket: Target, Jumper: Anna Sui for Target, Bag: Betsey Johnson 'Cat-Alina Shopper'