Friday, March 30, 2012

Sprung.


H&M blazer//w118 by Walter Baker blouse//Zara pants//JCrew heels//Rebecca Minkoff clutch//DVF sunnies//Tiffany & Co ring

Black, white and a splash of color is always a favorite, but I'm seriously loving this Rebecca Minkoff clutch - the snakeskin print with rosegold hardware is the perfect juxtaposition of masculine & feminine.



Thursday, March 29, 2012

I Heart IFB.


Arash Mazinani: 5 Things The Notorious B.I.G. Taught Me About Personal Style
Bang by Lo: The Purge
Beauty & the Budget: 5 Ways to Wear Pastels Shades for Summer
Bubbling with Elegance & Grace: Don’t Let Cancer Stop You from Feeling Fashionable & Beautiful
Catwalk of Words: Chadstone Autumn/Winter ‘12 Runway
Estoy, Je Suis: Bathing Beauties: So You’re a Girl
Fashioned by Love: Russian Top-Models: Olga Pantushenkova
First Came Fashion: Mint Condition
Glitz Glam Budget: 7 Ways to Style a Blazer…on a Budget
Javicia Leslie: Oh Coachella
KP Fusion: Spring Cleaning Your Closet & Defining Your Personal Style
Le’Love: Pretty. Photoshop Basics: Colour
Mademoiselle Sonoushka: Inspired By…Maria Callas
Morbid Glamour: Get Inspired: Art Deco
She Wrote: Impassioned
Style Island: Stay Hungry: Hunger Games Mania
That Haute Dude: Bring on the Velvet
The Aquarians: Ultra Violet Ray
The Shopaholic 24/7: J’adore Dior

SPONSOR:
New at ShopbopZespa, Cobra Society, CNC Sandals, Chris Benz, Milly, DKNY Dresses, Black Halo, Tai Bracelets, Enza Costa, Kors Watches, Sailormade, Tibi Sandals & Heidi Klein

Blood Orange Lemonade.



I had my first taste of blood orange lemonade at the Purple Onion in Los Gatos and have been hooked ever since; refreshing & reminds me of Spring.

I'm a little obsessed with this color, can't you tell?

Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
ice
1 cup fresh blood orange juice (fresh sqeezed  = 4 to 6 oranges)
1 cup fresh lemon juice (fresh sqeezed = 6 to 8 lemons)
3 cups club soda
1 lemon
1 blood orange
1 teaspoon of orange blossom water (optional)
fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

Directions: In a saucepan heat sugar and water for about 5 minutes until all the sugar is dissolved and it becomes a syrupy consistency, or simple syrup. Set aside to cool slightly.

Fill a pitcher with ice and pour in the juices, simple syrup and club soda. Slice the lemon and blood orange into rounds and place them into the pitcher and stir.

Pour yourself a glass, garnish with mint & enjoy!

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Orange Crush.

Orange Crush.

Spring has only just begun, yet I’m finding myself incorporating more and more pops of color to my outfits, especially drawn to orange hues. What a fun way to bring a little light to an otherwise dreary San Francisco day.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Eternal Optimist.

essie's eternal optimist

There is a certain amount of grace that surrounds being an eternal optimist. In the last few weeks, I've seen quite a few challenges brought forth my way, and at times have skewed my positivity. It's funny how sweet reminders like this light rosy neutral essie shade named eternal optimism can get me back on track. Now always being optimistic may not always make things better, but believing in yourself sparks a drive that will ultimately make things better.

Monday, March 26, 2012

3 Things.


Sometimes there is nothing better than getting out of the city and going to my hometown to visit my mother. While we knew we were in store for a rainy weekend, we found ways to maneuver around this and make it work for us. Whether it be eating at our latest favorite spot (here) or trying out new ones (here), watching The Hunger Games in a quaint, little movie theatre or shopping at Eileen Fisher’s Simply Spring event - creature comforts are what ruled our world this weekend.

 



1. Los Gatos Cinema, the cutest, little theatre with a small town touch to see The  Hunger Games, for only $5 in a half-filled theatre was an extra added bonus (this is now one of the highest grossing movies of all times, mind you)

2. Sukiface exfoliate foaming cleanser – I love trying out new products, but had no idea what I was getting into when out this sample gift with purchase from Eileen Fisher. Talk about instant results, my skin is silky smooth and the lemony smell is just divine.

3. Learning about Spark SF, an organization that celebrates women who ignite global change. I’m loving more and more Eileen Fisher’s support of women and their involvement with local as well as national campaigns. It’s truly inspiring.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Kiss This.




I'm so happy Spring is finally here. Unfortunately, living in San Francisco the sunny days can be few and far between. To beat those foggy, greyish days, I'm currently loving Lancome's Rouge in Love collection in Rose Boudoir - the color just lasts and lasts.

Have a bright weekend!



Thursday, March 22, 2012

Blissful.

Tarte's Blissful cheek stain

A co-worker introduced me to Tarte cosmetics last week and I've been sold ever since.  I really prefer gel blushes vs. powder because they are so easy to wear and instantly give a refreshed look. While I'm a big fan of this cheek color, it's nearly impossible to get my hands on because it's exclusively sold at Walmart and I'm a gal in the city without a car limiting my access that much more. With a color named Blissful, how could you not want to give it a try? It's a cheek stain that looks (and makes me feel) just that.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Mint Condition.

Mint Condition.

Mint is an absolute must have in your wardrobe right now; it brings an instant sense of femininity to any look and a color that flatters many.


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Need A Vacation.


After a day like yesterday, a vacation in the near future is certainly in need. What the hell happened?! Unbelievable day and glad it's over. From bad weather to trips to the ER (everyone is ok, thankfully) to unannounced surprises (& not the happy kind) yesterday was a culmination of all things that could possibly go wrong, all go wrong at the same time. But hey, it is what it is and things are settling down now. Fingers crossed its smooth sailing from here on out.

Monday, March 19, 2012

3 Things.




Waking up this morning was seriously abrupt. Abrupt like when a record is ripped off the player - I swear that was the sound I heard as I woke up. This week is a bit crazy work-wise and I'm feeling it pretty hard, especially coming off of a calm & quiet weekend spent reading The Hunger Games, indulging on Chinese take out, did a little volunteer work through the Junior League of San Francisco and a bit of a beauty shopping spree and then some. There is nothing I love more than a quiet weekend at home in the City. There is nothing more I want that just that back. Right now.



1. Volunteering with The Princess Project – a 100% volunteer based organization that promotes self-confidence and individual beauty by providing free prom dresses and accessories to high school girls who cannot otherwise afford them

2. A gorgeous, sunny (& chilly) day at Huntington Park with Ziggy while catch up reading for my Spreecast book club.

3. Successfully hitting some of my favorite City shopping spots – Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Sephora

Friday, March 16, 2012

Guinness Float.


The root beer float for grown-ups - a Guinness float bringing the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream together with the rich flavor of stout. The result is a multi-layered, complex drink that plays bitter against sweet, cold against hot, and vanilla against chocolate. (Warning, the flavor can be "interesting" if you are not a dark beer fan and may not appeal to all)

Ingredients:
3 scoops vanilla ice cream
1 pint Guinness stout beer
 
Directions:
Add ice cream to a glass, top with Guinness and enjoy!
 
Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Rainy Days.



Rain, rain go away. Come back another day.

With all the rain, usually a rainbow is to follow, right?

Trying to keep things positive while we're inside hiding from the stormy weather.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Pattern Pants.

Pattern Pants


I’m slight obsessed with pattern pants right now, especially floral prints. Either paired with a neutral blazer + tee or step things up with a matching print top for a fresh, clean Spring look. For those who are feeling a bit more fashion forward, mix & match patterns - the juxtaposition of contrasting prints can be quite complimentary.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Material Girl.

{essie's}

A deep burgundy with deep red undertones - sexy, modern, and vampy all in one. Sometimes a girls just gotta go there.


Monday, March 12, 2012

3 Things.


This weekend was nothing short of being jam-packed and fun-filled. Friday night, I headed over to Slim's to see one of my favorite bands, Counting Crows. Saturday morning, I took Ziggy with me to the nail salon, where he waited very patiently. He was rewarded with a visit to the park where he could run around while I caught up on The Hunger Games for my Spreecast book club. As usual, while I sat on the park bench reading and soaking up some sun, there was Z sitting right next to me on the bench. Someone needs to break the news to him that he is a dog! Later, I met friends for lunch at the Presidio Social Club and then we attended the Taste of Success benefit for Junior Achievement at the Golden Gate Club. We had a great time sampling a seemingly never-ending selection of fine wines and delicious food. During the afternoon, we bid on several items from the silent and live auction. This was a great event and very well run - quite impressive!
Saturday night, one of my childhood friends came up for a visit and as always, we had a blast - my sides still hurt from laughing so hard. No matter where we are or what we do, we always manage to have a great time. 
Thankfully, Sunday was much calmer. Sleeping in, enjoying a lazy lunch, and a little spring cleaning were some of my most strenuous activities for the day.


1. Listening to Adam Duritz sing that sweet poetry. Love.

2. Wine tasting for a cause in good company. Does it get much better?

3. Finding this photo of Ziggy as a baby – just precious!


Friday, March 9, 2012

Pop of Color.

Eileen Fisher sweater & scarf//Talbots jeans//JCrew shoes//Tory Burch Cuff//Rolex watch//Prada sunglasses

I love my mom's sense of style. She always looks so put together and fears no color. Let's be honest, they all look good on her. Her love of fashion is contagious; case in point, my new obsession with the Eileen Fisher Spring Preview - I want it all!


Thursday, March 8, 2012

I Heart IFB.



40+ Style: How to update your wardrobe and wear the spring 2012 trends: graphical
Aspiring New Moms: Nautical Sophisticate // A black blazer and Sperry Topsiders
Chic Stay at Home Mom: Mom Outfit Transformation Take 1
Fashion Moriarty: What is fashion’s role in negative body image?
Fashionopolis: Street Style Inspiration: Neon!
First Came Fashion: Dynamic Duo.
Homes & Heels: From Day to Night #2
I Have a Degree in This: Lady Inspiration Week: 20 Somethings
J. Rose Style: A Personal Stance on Photo Retouching
Life in Magazines: Confessions of  Prepster
Made to Travel: Celebrate Women’s History Month with Real Rosies
Make the World a Prettier Place: Roaring Twenties SS 2012
My Fashion Wish List: The Must Have Item
Prim and Propah: We are all Barbies
Simply Frabulous: The Roaring Twenties
Soulful Soles: Black is the new black
The Classic Woman: A Peek Inside a Classic Woman’s Closet
The Merchant Project: Introducing The Misses
The Style Confessions: Three Decadent Burgundy Lipsticks (from the drugstore!)
What Would Ashley Wear?: Wardrobe Staple you Need: The Neon Pink Blazer

Cut Me Off.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Jumpin Junkanoo.



Before I used this vibrant pink nail color, I had no idea what a jumpin Junkanoo was . . . so I googled it, in case I was missing something. Sure enough, I was! A Junkanoo is a big street party with dancing, costumes, bell and whistles held on islands of and around The Bahamas. Sounds exciting (like Mardi Gras maybe?), and similar to the excitement I felt on a recent shopping spree at Santana Row. Speaking of pink, I revisited one of my old favorites, Pink Stripes. This cute little boutique is owned by a fellow Banana Slug, who just happens to have great taste. 


If you're on the lookout for the perfect little dress or vying for something unique, this is your stop. And now they feature a vintage section with some amazing designer pieces. I was lucky enough to snag these insane ALC lambskin shorts.  I tell you, I'm in love, and can't wait to wear them.  Endless possibilities!



One thing's for sure, I'm not letting as much time pass before my next visit. 

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Beet & Chevre Salad.



It's funny to me to post a beet recipe because up until this last year, I couldn't stand them (although honestly I'm not sure I ever tried them). Hot or cold, now I love beets and chevre so much, it's almost like dessert. Almost.

Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs. of beets, greens removed
1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1 tsp. chopped fresh chives
3 tbsp. olive oil
salt and freshly ground pepper
2 oz. chevre, crumbled

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400º F and wrap beets individually in aluminum foil. Roast until tender when pierced with a fork (45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the beets. When cool, peel and quarter the beets and place on a serving platter (Use paper towels to peel red beets to avoid staining your fingers). In a separate bowl, mix together the thyme, chives, and olive oil. Spoon the oil and herb mixture over the beets, and season with salt and pepper. Top with the crumbled goat cheese and serve.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Three Things.


Last Friday, after Ziggy had been sedated, xrays taken, and knee examined, I received great news from the vet - Ziggy may not require surgery as they had originally thought. Since then, Ziggy seems to be improving and getting stronger as each day passes. The idea of such a little dog having ACL surgery, then physical therapy (seriously), was overwhelming. So, I'm really thankful for that, and also for having spent some quality time with my two favorite people - my mom and dad.  I took solace in some extensive retail therapy (checking three items off my fashion bucket list), indulged on some savory, surprisingly comforting meals and took advantage of the random, gorgeous weather with a long walk to the park. All in all, life is good. 



1. Talking a walk through the Financial District. It's like a different world on the weekends - quiet & peaceful. 

2. Noming on wild mushroom flat bread at the Nordstrom Bistro with my mom.

3. Team Ziggy. I'm so happy he's beginning to feel better.

Friday, March 2, 2012

What I'm Reading.


This week kicked my ass. Seriously. And to top it off, my little Ziggy tore his ACL and it looks like surgery for him is in the near future. Through it all, he still maintains that sweet demeanor about him that I love so much. Needless to say, this weekend is All. About. Ziggy. Full of down time and doggie treats, we will be recouping from the weeks events and preparing for what's to come.

Speaking of downtime, a group of us are starting an online book club. Want to join us? It's a fun way to interact with your friends and others with like interests near and far. Our first book is The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Join us here.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

I Heart IFB.




Aspiring New Moms: Floral Silk Dresses
Designer Purushu: Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW2012
Dress Code: High Fashion: Trend Colour SS12 – Purple
Girl Loves Color: London Fashion Week Fall 2012 Round Up
Girl Next Door Fashion: How To Cope With Your Remix Kyrptonite
Fashioned By Love: Outfit Inspiration – Milan Fashion Week
Fashionopolis: Tango With Tangerine
Fashions On Top: Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush Review
First Came Fashion: NYFW Favorites
Fly Songbird: Shoe Love – Platforms and Wedges
Just Pandippo: everyday so caffeinated, I wish they were golden gated
Lulu Abroad: IFB Conference: Before You Go
Lure Of The Dark Side: Trends: Would You Wear Them?
Miss Vicki Secrets: Are Unpaid Interns Modern Slaves?
Ms. Fabulous: Red Carpet Dressing With Janet McTeer
Pretty Quirky Pants: DIY Halter Shirt
StyleDelights: 5 Handbags That Will Suffice (Gasp!)
StyleEyes Ethical Fashion Blog: The Good Fashion Blog
The Sparkle In Her Eye: The Joy of Toile
The Merchant Project: The Dress Code


SPONSOR:
New Sandals at ShopbopSteven, Yosi Samra, LD Tuttle, Report Signature, Aquazzura, Minkoff, Rachel Zoe, Acne, Miista, Premiata, Loeffler Randall, Sam Edelman Sandals & Pelle Moda Shoes

Seeing Blue.