The holidays are here, so with Thanksgiving under our belts (literally), its time to switch gears and start thinking about the glitz and glamour of holiday parties, the glitter and sparkle of snowflakes and icicles, the sweet and spicy treats and the giving and getting of gifts.
One of my favorite things about this time of year is decorating my apartment for the holidays, and I think that’s a good starting point to kick off the season. While everybody knows that the bling and the baubles aren’t completely what brings warmth to this season, you know that I love to set the scene! So, without further ado, here are some of my festive favs!
West Elm Modern Santa Collection $10.00-$39.00
www.westelm.com
These sweet and modern Santa containers are so much fun!
Maison Martin Margeila by L'Atelier d'Exercices Oversize Snow Globe, $190
www.netaporter.com
The large size and lucite base of this dreamy snow globe make it a showstopper for the holidays!
Jonathan Adler Bird Bowl, $188.00
www.nordstrom.com
A fabulous gold bird to hold your chocolates, candies, holiday cards, whatever! Pretty enough to keep out all year round.
Christmas Yarn Wreath by HeartfeltYarnWreaths, $43.00
www.etsy.com
I love the simple design of this wreath, it makes a big statement on a front door or mantle.
Mini Felt Apple Ornament Set by Ashleigh's Apartment, $15.00 for 3
www.etsy.com
How sweet are these handmade apple ornaments? A vase of white branches adorned with several of these would be a fun and simple tree for someone in a smaller space.
Huey the Hedgehog Pillow by Heather Vitticore, $12.00
www.etsy.com
Can't you picture this little guy in the branches of your Christmas tree or nestled in a stocking?
Ginkgo Contemporary Oil Lamp Hanukkah Menorah, $70.00
www.allmodern.com
A very elegant and artful menorah for Hanukkah that reflects your modern design.
Happy Whoolidays Tree Topper, $98.00
www.anthropologie.com
Whoooo wouldn't want to see this elegant and whimsical creature atop their Christmas tree? I love this unconventional alternative to the traditional star or angel!
Quilted Tree Skirt, $30
www.target.com
Looks like it came straight from the elves' workshop! This cookie cutter scalloped tree is simple and pretty.
Restoration Hardware Embossed Pillar Candle, $50
www.restorationhardware.com
Always a lover of text and fonts, the unique embossed description on this pillar candle speaks to me!
Old Hickory Tannery Red Tufted Chair, $1600
www.neimanmarcus.com
The perfect chair to pose with for the holiday photos! Screams "happy holidays!" but whispers "I can stick around for all seasons, too".
West Elm Scandinavian Tree Apron, $18.00
www.westelm.com
Baking all those cookies will be a bit more joyful with an adorable vintage-inspired apron.
Classic White Artificial Christmas Tree, from $169.00
www.balsamhill.com
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas......literally! This is something I've always wanted. It feels modern and retro at the same time with just a touch of camp- totally my cup of tea!
Waterford Crystal Hanukkah Dreidel, $100
www.neimanmarcus.com
Dreidel, dreidel, dreidel....except this one is crystal, not clay. Fancy, eh?
As you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is a time when all of the planets in the retail universe align and present us with an opportunity to shop for all things pink and wonderful while making a contribution to breast cancer research and awareness.
Breast cancer, a subject that is very close to my heart, touches so many people. My Nana is a survivor, and my Mom was just diagnosed 2 weeks ago. And so many other women who I know have faced this scary and difficult personal challenge in their lives. Now is a fantastic time to help get even closer to finding a cure. Women are amazing, and what better way to show your support for them than to rock some pretty pink?
Betsey Johnson Carryall, $75, www.betseyjohnson.com
I love everything about this tote- the pop art piece declares, "I'm a survivor!", and Betsey Johnson sure is. A breast cancer survivor of 11 years, she continues to inspire and empower women with her fearless fashion.
Redflower Candle, $34, www.redflower.com
A huge longtime fan of Redflower candles, this beautiful pink version is scented with japanese peony and topped with succulent petals (perfect for dropping into a calming bath or in a small dish as potpurri). The best part? Redflower will donate 100% of the profits of this candle to cancerandcareers.org.
Hunter Boot Original Tall High Gloss Rain Boot Limited Edition, $125, www.nordstrom.com
These Hunter Boot wellies in limited edition fuchsia have the power to liven up any damp and dreary day (or mood). Save them for a rainy day.
Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Lucidity Translucent Pressed Powder Jeweled Metal Compact, $55 , www.esteelauder.com
Beautiful both inside and out, this gorgeous compact holds inside a magical translucent powder that brightens and airbrushes your visage in a snap.
Limited Edition Cashmere Mist for Breast Cancer Awareness, $90.00, www.bergdorfgoodman.com
A timeless fragrance for a timeless cause. Donna Karan will donate $15,000 in connection with the sales of the fragrance to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Ralph Lauren Pink Pony Long Sleeved Polo, $155, www.ralphlauren.com
A Pink Pony over your heart is now a symbol of compassion and a glamorous nod to all the women in your life who you love and admire. I plan to wear this chic piece with a leather skirt (and maybe those shades!). The Pink Pony Fund for Cancer Care and Prevention will receive 10% of the proceeds from each Pink Pony sale.
Forever21 Breast Cancer Strength Sweatshirt, $17.80, www.forever21.com
Whether you're lounging on the weekend or sweating it out at the gym, this comfy sweatshirt is sure to give you a little more strength! Forever21 will donate 10% of the proceeds to Susan B. Komen for the Cure and has many other adorable styles available, including nighties and robes.
BCBG Susan B. Komen Pink Ribbon Beaded Bracelet, $18.00, www.bcbg.com
Show your support with this BCBG beaded bracelet, a simple and strong statement that can be worn everyday. And 20% of the proceeds go to Susan B. Komen for the cure.
Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection Pallette, $44.00, www.lordandtaylor.com
I am a huge fan of anything Bobbi Brown touches. And like many of her other palletes which are necessities for me, this one works with all skin tones and is perfect for eyes, cheeks, and lips. The sale of each pallette will contribute $10 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, Cook for the Cure Edition, $400, www.macys.com
Attention Domestic Divas everywhere: now you can cook for the cure with this beautiful pink kitchen accessory! You'll be the envy of the neighborhood with this baby on the counter. Not to be outdone, KitchenAid will donate a minimum of $450,000 to Susan B. Komen for the Cure in 2011.
Clarisonic Skincare Brush in BCA Pink , $195, www.sephora.com
This tool will absolutely make your skin GLOW. And the pretty pink hue of this magic device just makes me smile! What's more, Sephora will make a donation to help fund the fight against breast cancer with every purchase.
Posted in Abode, Accessories., Fragrance, Makeup
Tagged Betsey Johnson, Bobbi Brown, Breast Cancer Awareness, Donna Karan, Estee Lauder, Forever21, pink, Ralph Lauren, Redflower, shop for the cause
Never one to turn down an enlightening experience, holistic remedy, feng shui tip, or chakra-balancing yoga pose, I was elated when I discovered these beautiful mala beads from Tiny Devotions. Mala beads are non-denominational prayer and meditation beads that bring strength, healing and clarity. Available in many forms and with different purposes, I feel my perfect mala is the Turquoise Ocean Mala because it helps the wearer attract energy in communication, purification and protection of the spirit. I’m obviously drawn to the beautiful color of the stone, but this show stopping piece serves a more important function for beautification on the inside. OM!
This mala and others available at www.lovetinydevotions.com.
Chanel’s newest cult polish collection, Les Jeans de Chanel, debuted on Fashion’s Night out and may be pretty hard to get your hands on now (pun intended). For my next downtime mani-pedi during lunch, I’ll be trying out “Blue Boy”, a perfect, glossy, midnight blueberry. Coco Blue is also quite fantastic, but I’m craving a dark, moody polish as a welcome to fall after summer’s icy pastels.
$30.00 each, www.chanel.com.
Although I don’t have a 4-legged friend of my own, many of my friends and family have chic doggies and kitties. As I’ve often mentioned, I’m a firm believer that your style needn’t come to a screeching halt because of your lifestyle, and that includes having a pet in tow. In fact, its an opportunity to play it up more! We’ve all seen the amazing and endless variety of pet accessories available now. There’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Here are some of my favorites as of late- so fabulous that it makes me wish I had a fur baby of my own!
Wowbow dog bed, $1,090.00
A bed for a true princess! This glamorous lucite bed and raspberry cushion is for royalty (and more importantly, goes with your decor)!
Moschino Pets dog collar, $100.00
Not too girly, not too butch. Totally tongue-in-cheek, because you know, your dog has a wicked sense of humor.
Petmate Cat Carrier, $47.99
Not only for cats, but any 4 legged small creature. The pattern is wild and fun, and the inside is roomy and comfy.
Target Pet Military Coat with Velveteen Collar, $25
You can't be the only one well dressed around here. This is the mini version of the military chic trend that's in right now.
Jax and Bones Red Heart rope toy, $8.50
Any dog will fall in puppy love with this symbolic rope toy. Aww.
Juicy Couture Shearling Dog Bed, $128
Doesn't this look inviting? Perfect for naps in front of the fire after a long day of playing fetch.
Juicy Couture Dog Collar and Chain Leash Set, $65.00
Walks just got a little more glamourous. You can both be fancy at the same time.
Kiehl's Pampered Pooch Collection, $44.00
Luxury beauty products- four paws only! Great deep conditioner for the really furry ones!
Dot Bowl from Scandinavian Design, $76.00
If you love Scandinavian design like I do, this is a must. Actually intended for human use, but who could resist?
ISAACMIZRAHILIVE! Harry Dessert Plates, $22.68
Wouldn't these be fabulous mounted on the wall above the food and water bowls to define your pet's space?
Pottery Barn Paw Print Dog Bow & Stand, $16-$39.00
Inconspicuous and functional, these bowls can easily go in the dishwasher.
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Hide your kids, hide your wife. I will be at Target when the doors open, pushing everyone out of my way on September 13th. Why? Because I’m not gonna be that sucker who’s shopping the picked-over racks later that day. If you see me in the store, don’t be mistaken- this is not Supermarket Sweep. This is destiny. Missoni for Target is a HUGE deal to me as a major lover of the Italian brand and of the midwestern mass retailer. Now that the lookbook has leaked onto the interwebs (and oh, is it ever out there- I didn’t have to look far), I know exactly which zig-zaggy treasures I’ll need to be taking home. Is everything spectacular? No, but almost. There are a couple looks that I could say no to. Raspberry isn’t my color, and I am not 100% digging the floral print they’ve concocted for this collection. Do I love the bicycle? Yes, but not enough to buy it (I’m holding out for the day when I go for my dream bike- the Hermes beach cruiser). What I’m most in love with in this amazing capsule collection for Target are the housewares. The linens, table runners, and dishes are amazing! Deep down, I’m a domestic diva, and the throw pillows fill my soul with joy.
Prices are not posted, but we obviously know they’ll be very inexpensive. But nothing really looks “cheap”. Unlike the Alexander McQueen and Galliano for Target collections, these pieces aren’t deliberately far-off from the master brands, or even far off from M by Missoni. They look very bridge, but still unmistakeably Missoni. Which is brilliant, so that us normal pedestrians can have a taste. Most designers have discovered that doing a capsule collection doesn’t hurt or cheapen a brand, it instead strengthens it by bringing it to the masses. No one ever stopped buying Proenza Schouler just because it had a wicked cheap range in Target for 3 weeks. I’ve got the sweatshirt, but that doesn’t mean that I will ever stop pining for the “real thing” until I’m grasping it in my greedy little hands.
Are you planning to purchase any pieces from this fantastic collection? You know you are. Tell me which ones.
Hello fashionistas! I guess with only a month or so left of summer to relish in, I only have time for one more destination before the leaves slowly start changing their colors (eek!). I’m so looking forward to soaking it all in for one last time, and I plan to do so in young and hip Montauk, toward the end of the season. “Rediscovered” and newly known for its laid-back style, and always for its beautiful scenery and picturesque beaches, this nearby gem has a treasure trove of restaurants and hotspots, shopping, nautical museums and friendly locals.
So what to wear? I just want to feel effortlessly beautiful and on trend- never trendy- amongst the crowds of well-dressed New Yorkers. But I don’t want to blend in, either. I’ve found some amazing pieces in my virtual closet (the internet) that will mesh well with my flowerchild-meets-preppy personal aesthetic. Peruse the slideshow for some inspiration and enjoy the rest of these summer days!
Clic H Narrow Bracelet with White Enamel, Hermes, $570
What could be chicer? This Hermes bauble makes such a bold statement and should be worn like a whisper- subtly and softly.
Floral Print Maxi Dress, Collette by Collette Dinnigan, $340
This dress can't stop, won't stop turning heads. The playful print and colors are perfect for day with flats and night with towering platforms. Belt it and you're good to go.
Margo Hat by Badgley Mischka, $64.00
This polished fedora/sunhat hybrid is all you really need to keep your face hidden from damaging rays while still looking dressed, not messed. Please, tell me you're slathering the sunscreen on, this isn't 1970 (although I love dressing like it is)!
High Waist Striped Shorts from Forever 21, $17
I love these nautical striped shorts with a loose tshirt and a worn out pair of boat shoes. Summer days are about practicality and comfort, not being gussied up to the nines in super high temperatures.
Monoi Body Glow II from NARS, $59
The scent of this oil instantly transports me to the beach, and its moisturizing properties leave your skin soft and silky, which isn't so bad either. Just a little dab'll do ya, though.
Cap Sleeve Henley T from Gap, $12.99
Just like the apple is the perfect fruit, I consider the white t-shirt the perfect garment. For layering, by itself, with anything. For $12.99, buy a week's worth.
Foundation Sisal Tote by Tory Burch, $150
I can't handle carrying a perfectly structured, leather hardware adorned bag on vacation, or in the summer in general. Too much. This one does the job beautifully and doesn't weigh you down.
Classic Sandal from Dr. Scholl's, $49
You can't beat the simplicity of this retro sandal from Dr. Scholl's. It completely steps it up a notch from typical flip flops and thongs. Plus, knowing that my mom had the same pair is pretty cool.
Ikat Scoop Halter Tank from J.Crew, $88
I love this one-piece maillot with the gorgeous ikat print and color. For those who don't like to bare it all, this is sexy without being overexposed. Which, ironically, is pretty sexy.
Delilah Wedge by Madison Harding, $120
Hey there, Delilah. I love a good wooden wedge heel, and this one has just enough glitz without being overly decorative. If you can wear it with shorts, good for you!
Before you start seeing visions of Snooki and the Situation fist-pumping in your head, let me make something very clear: I have spent nearly every summer of my life at the Jersey Shore, and I can assure you that if your idea of the Shore is based on the show, you need to turn off the TV and decide for yourself. I personally have never seen a parade of promiscuous, spray-tanned guidos on the boardwalk, or anywhere (okay, maybe Tiki Bar or Jenks- but only a handful, and they were from the Bronx, and they were fun to look at). This new image that MTV and the media have decided to bestow upon the Shore makes me sad, because it only represents a fraction of what is real. Yes, I have most certainly gone out at night at the Shore among orange-skinned people; I’ve seen guys who are definitely on steroids in small tank tops, and girls too. Was there techno music? Hell yes. However, I have also experienced these things in Queens. And loved it.
Summer wouldn’t be complete for me without reading a book on the beach and sitting at the water’s edge in Point Pleasant or having drinks with my cousins at the bars in Seaside. Riding bikes to the shops, past beautiful multi-million dollar beach houses, shingles and all. Don’t knock it til you try it. This is what you wear when you go.
Lisa Marie Bikini by Lisa Marie Fernandez, $250
LMF's swimsuits bring me back to the days where Pam Anderson was a bombshell and Baywatch was all the rage. Love everything about this look!
Beach Blanket Dress by Roxy, $46.00
Is it a dress, or is it a cover-up? Does it matter? Super cute.
Frock! By Tracy Reese Laurisa Dress in Lightening Tropic, $228
Hot summer nights call for a flirty one-shoulder dress. Ramp it up even more with some 70's inspired flatforms.
Sanuk Kiss and Tell Sandal, $30.00
Your inner surfer girl is calling. Flat sandals are a must for walking through the dunes to find that perfect spot in the sand. Appropriate for a transition into night.
Carrera Champion/A sunglasses, $109
Bring a little bling to the beach in a subtle way. These shades mean business- no makeup required.
Frederic Fekkai Beach Waves, $24
Nothing is sexier than beach hair! This spray enhances natural waves or creates texture in straight hair like mine. Spritz while reading magazines from the atop the lifeguard tower.
Hermès un Jardin en Mediterranee EDT, $125
Smells like (pricey) Teen Spirit. This fragrances makes me feel youthful, energized and beautiful, all in one spritz. Perfect for daytime at the beach.
Dusen Dusen Hiking Backpack, $129
Time to toss the JanSport you've been rocking since 8th grade. Bag up your essentials in this super cute printed backpack! You'll be hands-free, so you can ride your beach cruiser down the boardwalk with ease.
Now that summer is finally here, I’m dreaming up my wardrobe with pieces that will work in different settings and occasions. Always inspired by the surroundings I find myself in, I am exploring some of the places that I’m travelling to this summer, which are all within a very close radius to my home here outside Manhattan. The next few posts will focus on each one.
To start off the summer, I’m thinking about the mountains. Don’t get me wrong- I am a city dweller, but I am swept away by the scenery of the Adirondacks everytime I visit. I admit, I am not at all outdoorsy- I don’t swim or fish, I can’t stand mosquitoes, I feel frumpy in anything but heels. But after several visits with my beau to his family’s lakeside camp, I fell for the region’s shabby-chic charm. I draw inspiration from the colors and textures of the mountains, landscape, history, wildlife and classic Adirondack style houses & furniture. Not to be taken literally with your wardrobe, the Adirondack style is simple, rustic, playful, and kitschy. But my translation of this region’s personality through fashion is a mix of camp-meets-chic, and a balance of mother nature and fashion girl mentality.
Slim Ballerina Flat by Pendleton, $137.99
The Buckle Bag by Pendleton, $258.00
Indian Blanket Bag by The Original Flea Bag, $291.00
J Brand 1038 Cadet in Worn Westpoint, $154.00
Anthropologie Summer Tartan Tank, $68.00
Henri Bendel To Die For Clutch, $198.00
Minnetonka Fiona Sandal, $69.00
There’s something about clogs. They make me nostalgic for the early 90′s, where they were “new” for my generation- I had a black suede pair with a slingback in the winter of 4th grade, and a white pair in the spring. The tiny floral patterns and chintzes we wore (in much smaller sizes) are back in full effect as well, along with leggings and lace which totally complete the look. This classic comeback is reincarnated in two of my favorite options, below.
Vena Cava and the accessories collaborators at TenOverSix joined forces and brought us this haute hippie creation- the Kareem. The dark wooden heel and navy leather are amazing together and go with everything for summer, into fall. I can’t wait to wear these with a flowing, belted caftan, a big floppy hat and some huge sunglasses for a Penny Lane look (hello, Almost Famous). Vena Cava x TenOverSix “Kareem”, $295.00. Available at FrancesMay.com.
Say hello to sweet little Mary Sue. Designed by style icon Chloe Sevigny for avant-garde destination Opening Ceremony, this clog is super sexy. The sky high platforms combine a dash of sass with the persona of an “innocent” clog. The quaint little bow on the front is a detail that I am drawn to, and the minimal round toe and light wood won’t compete with the rest of your outfit. Chloe Sevigny for OC “Mary Sue” Clog, $266.00. Available at LaGarconne.
