Best of 2015

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Best of 2015


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2015 was truly a wonderful year. My first year of marriage, my first time becoming an aunt, and a big move from DC to Philadelphia. Lots of happy, exciting memories to reflect on, and so much to look forward to in 2016!

I thought it would be fun to share some of my "Best Of" picks from the past year. 

Best Winter Wine: Meiomi pinot noir
Best Summer Wine: Whispering Angel rose
Best Beauty Tool: Sigma makeup brush cleaner
Best DIY: Floral arranging (I am obsessed)
Best Bedroom Accessory: Pottery Barn bedside table clock
Best Desk Accessory: Faux fur chair throw
Best Dish: Murgh Makhani (Indian)
Best Peel: M-61 Power Glow Peel (love to feel that sting!)
Best Mask: Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask (this beauty line is incredible)
Best Trend: Metallic Shoes (I have silver and rose gold…eyeing a yellow gold pair now)
Best Treat: Truffle oil - I'm addicted 
Best Read: The Island - I love anything Elin Hilderbrand, but this was one of her best!
Best Sound: Sonos Speakers (these are the best home accessory)
Best Dressed: Gigi Hadid (I'm obsessed with her model off-duty looks)
Best Bridal Accessory: Stubbs & Wooten "I Do" flats

What were your favorites of 2015?

.E



Holiday Wishlist - Favorites Edition

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Holiday Wishlist - Favorites Edition



1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
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Am I the only one who gets immediate post-holiday blues? Wahhh I miss it already!

Christmas Eve is actually my favorite over Christmas morning because that feeling of holiday spirit all around you, coupled with the building anticipation for that burst of December 25th happiness, is probably the best feeling there is.

 As much as you want the morning to come, you also wish it would hold off for forever so you can continue living in the magical, sparkly, frasier fir scented world that we create in our homes, in town, and in church. On the 26th, I always wake up and try to keep the feeling alive by baking more cookies, listening to more holiday music, and enjoying all of the sweet treats and presents I received. I figure I can keep this going at least until New Years, right?!

This year I got to see Christmas through the eye's of my darling niece, Isla. It was so fun to watch her open presents and play with the paper and ribbons and all of her new toys. She was definitely the highlight of the holiday this year.

I hope Santa was good to everyone. Above are a few favorites that I received under the tree.

Feeling very thankful for all that I have this year.

.E


Sleepy Head

Monday, December 21, 2015

Sleepy Head


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I don't know about you, but every year without fail, I get sick just before Christmas. No matter how hard I try, I always end up with the year's worst cold. Luckily the holidays area all about sleeping and lounging in bed. And if you are gonna lay around, you might as well have cute accessories to do so! I love these adorable sleep masks for a good nap in bed or nap on the plane if you are lucky enough to be jetting off somewhere fun for the holidays! These would also make a great stocking stuffer gift for the sleep lover in your life.

Lots of good sales going on right now, friends! If you're a last minute shopper like me, you better get cracking since were in the 4 day countdown weeee!! 

Happy Christmas Week!

.E


Home Office

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Home Office


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Since I'm currently doing a lot of work from home, I felt inspired to design my ideal home office. I wanted the space to feel light and bright and I wanted everything mostly white with some great color punches here and there. Must haves include a fuzzy rug for under your feet, fun and inspiring decorative items kept to the side on a complimentary bookshelf (desk area should be as clutter free as possible), some soft light to amp up the natural light, and Sonos speakers for soft background music (we're obsessed with Sonos in this household). I would definitely feel ready to crush some to-do lists in this cozy little space!

What are your must-haves for your work area?

.E


2015 Mash-Up Listen

Friday, December 11, 2015

I'm heading down to DC this weekend for a good friend's engagement party, but wanted to pop in real quick to share the 2015 DJ Earworm mash-up which is something I look forward to every year.

This guy is so seriously talented (how do I learn to do this?) and this year's mix is no exception! It will definitely get you through the Friday workday.

Happy Listening & Happy Weekend!

.E


3 DIY's I Want to Try

Thursday, December 10, 2015

3 DIY's I Want to Try


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I love a good project. If you've been following along, you know I just wrapped up my 2015 Thanksgiving centerpiece which you can read about here. Now I am on to my next endeavor; the holiday ice bucket. I have been wanting to try this for a few years now, and it seems pretty easy and very festive. I will be sure to share the finished product if it works out well!

I am also really want to attempt to bleach pine cones. I was down in South Carolina a few years ago and found a ton of gigantic (I'm talking the size of your forearm huge) pine cones. I obviously had to collect 2 bags full and bring them home with me, but have never really figured out what to do with them. I think this DIY will be perfect since I clearly have an addiction to making everything white, bright and neutral. 

Lastly, I really want to try to do a celery stalk painting. I'm not super artistic but this literally looks like a kindergarten project so if I fail, I'll really be concerned. How cute is the above flower print. It looks exactly like an ElizaJ dress that I wore to a wedding this past September. I will also share this finished project if it works out. Otherwise I am going to hire an 8 year old to do it for me.

Project 1 - Tutorial here or try the ice cubes for a smaller scale project!

Project 2 - Tutorial here and here

Project 3 - Tutorial here and here


Gift Guide For The Foodie

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Gift Guide For The Foodie

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1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10. | 11.

I'm no expert in the kitchen, but with these items I'd be willing to learn! If you have a favorite friend or family member who loves to cook, there are some great gift ideas above. I've recently gotten into coffee (literally never drank it for the first 29 years of my life) and I think coffee art is so creative and cool. Now you can do it yourself at home with cup stencils. I so wish I had found this before our wedding - I would have had a "Mr & Mrs" sprinkled on our guest's coffee because, why not?

I've also been wanting to add a lemon tree to my home for a while, but I'll admit I'm nervous since I tend to have a brown thumb when it comes to plants (I've murdered my share over the years). I just love the idea of growing my own and having lemons ready at a moments notice for my wine, water, arugula salad, avocado toast…lemon is seriously the best garnish.

That piggy soup tureen needs to find a home on my counter top. J is addicted to soup and is often making it from scratch (last weeks chicken broth made from our Thanksgiving turkey bones was unreal). Since I don't cook, I can at least be sure it's served in adorable piggy style!

E.

Heavy Weights

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Heavy Weights

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Not a huge fan of knick knacks (I prefer a clutter free space) but I do love an adorable decorative item here and there. These West Elm solid brass weights are my current obsession. Aren't they so cute? I want one of each and just maybe I will treat myself since they are all $20 or less!! These would make the cutest gifts for co-workers or your bestie. Stick one on your desk, one on your coffee table, and one on your night stand. I'm seriously in love with these little gold treats!

Help me decide between the Cross Arrows, Horse Shoe, and Hash Tag!

Shop all objects here 

.E


Cool Cat - Men's Accessory Must Haves

Monday, December 7, 2015


Cool Cat - Men's Accessories

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We already talked about a gift guide for our guys a few weeks back (which you can find here) but I wanted to do a quick round up of the best men's accessories (all pre-tested by the closest boys in my life). Each of these would also make great gifts/stocking stuffers this holiday season!

Let's begin:

Monogrammed Suspenders: These are especially awesome if you're in the thick of planning your wedding, but really these are fun for any black tie event your guy might have coming up. I love the idea of a monogram or wedding date stitched on. For our wedding, we had our wedding date stitched on the underside of J's tux collar. It was one of my favorite details from our special day.

A Great Pair of Glasses: There's something so handsome about a guy in glasses, no? I think it majorly ups the cuteness factor. Favorite brands are Warby Parker, Oliver Peoples, or Ben Silver.

Leather Tech Gloves: A great pair of driving gloves are a winter staple, but spring for the tech ones and you will have one happy dude in your life. These allow you to click and swipe your iPhone/Pad until your hearts content without removing your gloves. J has this pair on his Christmas wish list.

Cashmere Scarf: The perfect polished touch to top off your outfit.

Pocket Squares: These are so fun to gift because you really can't have enough colors and prints (however steer clear of paisley/over the top patterns). If you think about how boring a boys outfit can be, especially formal attire (we call J's tux his "uniform" because of all of our weddings this past year), this is the area where you can add personality and fun. Don't go crazy but definitely stand out from others with this, this, or this.

Unique Belts: Another area where you can bring the fun along with the function. I mentioned in my previous gift guide that I gave J a needlepoint life belt which was an awesome gift that he has worn for years. Currently loving these La Matera belts which you can shop here.

Cufflinks: J has a bunch of fun cufflinks, but really whenever he asks me which he should wear, I am always drawn to the simple colorful knots. These are super cheap and come in really gorgeous shades.

Shoes/Slippers: This is the one area where guys can really slip-up (pun pun) and where you should place a lot of focus on your gift giving. There are SO many hideous men's shoes out there - why?!?? Invest in a good pair of slippers (J loves llbean ones) some great every day shoes (Sperry's, Chukka's, Vans Lace Ups etc) and a pair of dark leather flip flops for summer (Rainbows are the best I think). For the office, a great bit loafer or driving shoe (we love Ferragamo and Cole Haan).

A Signet Ring: This may or may not be your style, but I am a big fan of a pinky signet ring on a guy (or a girl for that matter). If he wears a wedding ring, have it fitted for his right hand. If he has a special family symbol (crest or design) work with a custom engraver for a special personal touch.

Signature Scent: Again, this is a personal preference, but if you are looking for a great men's scent, Creed Silver Mountain Water is by far the best smell I have EVER come across….I would literally bathe in this cologne. Heads up though, it will set you back a few hundred dollars! Not into cologne? Try a masculine scented hand cream (this wood one is our favorite)

Wallet, Dopp Kit, and Brief Case: The heavenly trifecta. These are three items a guy will use every single day of his life so they should be top quality and great looking! I love the needlepoint monogrammed wallet (above). Dopp Kits look great in leather, but I actually opt for a dark colored canvas that can be easily cleaned and won't show stains (I feel like men's dopp kits are always covered in toothpaste and weird stains, no?). J gave monogrammed dopp kits to his groomsmen for our wedding, and they all seem to be using/loving them. Lastly, the briefcase. I feel like guys are really picky about this item and I get it, you don't want to look like you're carrying a purse. J.Crew has some great options if you are searching, or try your local leather goods store.

Fun Socks: Like the pocket squares, these are a fun place to add a little personality and color to your outfit. J and my friend's husband (we will call him V) have an on going sock competition for every wedding we attend. They get overly excited about each other's sock game which we have come to refer to as peacocking. How cute are these pheasant socks?!

Coolers and Koozies:  This sounds crazy but literally everywhere we go, J carries a koozie in his pocket so he's always prepared for a cold brew. This Yeti cooler is also on his wish list, although I don't know where he thinks he's going with a $500 cooler…




 


Top Lip Picks!

Friday, December 4, 2015

Love Those Lips!

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I never was really a lipstick girl (I always thought it made me look like a clown), but now I can't seem to get enough! I've been testing out a number of brands over the last year, and have narrowed down my favorite picks to the 6 above. 

All provide great lasting color, and each one seems to carry me through months of use! I personally think a bright red looks best on brunettes, but a great coral with orange undertones and a bright pink are two of my favorites! A deep oxblood shade is also so good for Fall and Winter months. 
Have a great lip product that you can't live without? Give me the deets!

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Nude Stix - I use this one in the oxblood (Hypnotic) shade and I love it.

Chanel - This one feels really creamy & luxe. Love the 402 Adrienne color

Bobbi Brown Gloss - I always add a gloss on top to tone the lipstick look down a bit. These are my favorites!

Sonia Kashuk - This stuff you guys, is gold. It's literally like drawing on your lip with a big, bold color crayon so it makes it super easy to apply. Plus I get it at TARGET and it's $8. You need this now!

Nars - Such a great makeup brand in general, this is the one I use when I occasionally sport a bright red lip. It more of a blue, cool-tone red than an orange red - really great shade.

YSL - Best for last, this is a lip stain and it is my #1 favorite on the list. I am addicted to this product. It smells good, goes on like a gloss but has the amazing color that a lipstick would provide. Slightly higher price tag; worth every penny.

.E




Dear Santa,

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Dear Santa,


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A Christmas edition of Wishfully!

Here's a peep into a few items that I am asking Santa for this year. Is it weird that I still want to put puppies and candy on my Christmas list? We got 3 different Christmas puppies over the years, and they are by far my favorite holiday memories. 
This year I'm wishing for:

This coat - It's so chic. I am seriously loving Eliza J lately!

Dying to try this Kiehl's product that people seem to swear by

I showed this top to my mom and she said she'd already decided it was perfect for me!

Thanks to my friend Devon, I am officially on the adult coloring book train - Great for stress relief!

Loving this workout jacket for winter trail workouts - Have been doing 5 miles a day!

I've been seeing this makeup brush cleaner everywhere lately - Is it gross that I don't think I've ever cleaned my makeup brushes?

How perfect is this gold plated link bracelet? I need that stat

This tortoise clutch has been on my wish list for a while - It's sold out here but a local store in my town was selling the same one!

I remember in high school & college when I refused to wear anything JBrand, Seven's, or AG jeans. Now I swear by J.Crew jeans. I'm obsessed with them and so is my bank account.

Anthro always has an amazing selection of earrings. I am loving these star crawlers.

Addicted to home design/decor magazines. Hoping for some new subscriptions!

Feeling like I'm needing some new makeup brushes to go with that cleaner! 

What's on your wish list this season?

.E

The F Word

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

The F Word

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Three F's every gal needs in her closet: Fringe, Floral, and (Faux) Fur. 

The above is designed with just those in mind. When sorting through my recent pins and saves, I noticed the 3F trend across almost everything. I then realized, this is where (outfit) detail magic comes from.

Honorable mentions to the bomb shell shoes, the Clare Vivier navy cross body, and the wine faux leather motorcycle pants.

Which would you choose?

.E

Thanksgiving Centerpiece 2015

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

If you've been following along for a while,  you know that each year I am in charge of my family's  Thanksgiving centerpiece. I get so excited for my creation that I honestly start planning weeks in advance. Typically I have a vision or color scheme in mind and then I just build from there. 

Last year I included bold color (see below), so I knew I wanted muted neutrals this year with lots of texture. The whole look began around these incredible white pumpkins that I picked up on one of our lake trips in Upstate NY. 

Since we celebrate out at our farm house, I wanted to play with a mildly rustic vibe this year. I found the garden boxes for $7.99 a piece at Home Goods (can't beat that price!). I will 100% use these over and over - they are the perfect blue/grey shade.

I decided to go with dried hydrangeas for my floral element. These are incredible flowers all year round. They're obviously gorgeous in their full-bloom blues and pinks, but dried Fall hydrangeas are pretty spectacular too. The key is to cut them over a few weeks time. The colors will continue to change as the season fades. What you see below is about three different cut batches (from the same bush) which gave me soft greens, faint purples, and warm tan shades.

For filler I included cut eucalyptus pods which smelled amazing and added some grey/blue tones throughout. The scabiosa pods were dried and saved from my bridesmaid bouquets which added a personal/happy touch.

Lastly, I never leave out the pheasant feathers. Officially obsessed with pheasant feathers.

.E


 Ta Da! Finished product 2015 edition


Closer Look - Such great colors in those dried hydrangeas!

With some of the table settings

Look at those colors!! 

Sprigs of eucalyptus pods scattered throughout 

One last look - with my pretty little pheasant feathers

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Here's a little peak at last years arrangement including rich reds and greens!






Gift Guide: For The Home Decor Lover

Monday, November 30, 2015

Gift Guide: For The Home Decor Lover


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I love to shop just as much as the next gal, but my ultimate guilty pleasure is not clothing, or makeup, or shoes. It is 100% home decor items…the addiction is real, friends. 

I would so much rather invest in an amazing bar cart or vintage garden stool over a new cashmere sweater (gimmie) or cheeky pair of flats ( can't.stand.the.cuteness).

Above I've rounded up some of my favorites, all of which would make the perfect gift for that lady or gent in your life that loves to dress up their living space.

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1. I have been eying this Peacock Ally bed rest pillow for a while now. This one however, is a great cost-effective alternative!

2. This candelabra definitely speaks for itself. Make it your center piece or place it on your side board table, and change up the color of your votives frequently because, why not?!

3. I have a thing for Nantucket baskets (did you see my wedding gift from J? Insert starry eyed emoji here). I am in love with this Wedgewood vegetable bowl which would pair perfectly with our everyday china

4. After moving around a few times, I discovered the key to making your home actually feel like a home, is getting your favorite art work and personal pictures hung up on the wall. In our first apartment I think we made it as far as hanging one giant mirror and it always drove me crazy!! Framebridge has gorgeous frames for an incredible cost and they will do all the work for you! (collage photo credit)

5. Cocktail/Dinner napkins are an easy way to add rich color and fun prints to your space. Don't tuck them away in the drawer. Leave your dining table set even if you aren't having a party and display your cocktail squares around the room, on a side table or on the bar area.

6. Remember this piece from my playroom vignette? I can't get enough of it. What a great item for the holidays to hang above your couch or in your foyer. Place it in the kids room or on your bar during other months of the year.

7. Coffee table books are great to collect. I usually have at least one on my Christmas wish list each year (currently wanting this one and this one). There really is a CTB out there for everyone. Not only are they are great to display, but they are also fun to revisit every now and then for a little inspiration. Giving one for a gift? Make sure to write a great (dated) inscription on the inside cover for a memorable keepsake.

8. Bud vases are perfect for your powder room, kitchen windowsill, or bedside table. Clip a few delicate stems from your backyard (or your neighbors - eek! I'm guilty of this) and tuck them in little unexpected corners of your home.

9. There is nothing better than gifting a fantastic smelling candle (I burn an assortment of favorites on a daily basis). But step it up a notch by finding great scent that also comes in a statement ceramic jar or colorful tin (anthro kills it in this dept.). I mean, how gorgeous is this deep Caribbean blue jar
Tip: Keep the jar when the candle has burned out and re-purpose it! Store your makeup brushes or fill with dried lavender for a calming bedtime scent.

10. Three words: Big. Plush. Towels. There is nothing worse than getting out of the shower into the cold air and trying to dry off with a stiff, barely-there towel. I am seriously coveting these gorgeous ikat bath towels. Use them after your shower or out by the pool!

11. A fun play on the traditional garden stool, this little elephant would look amazing tucked under an entry way table, or placed front and center as a side table in your living room! With that sale price, how could you not?

12. I know, broken record…the bar cart. But this is an area of your room where you can have fun, be impractical, and constantly change it up! You can find a great cart for literally any budget - this one is Threshold for Target (aka a great price) but makes such a statement! I'm loving that bottom rack for extra storage, and the wheels for easy mobility - And it's on sale today for Cyber Monday! Win, win win!

.E

Note: This is NOT a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.




Jason Polan For Soludos

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Jason Polan For Soludos


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Shout out to my bestie, Colleen, for introducing me to the Soludos brand a while back. These shoes are affordable, comfortable and most importantly, so cute. For Resort 2014 the company partnered with Jason Polan, a New York City based illustrator who created the funky bunch you see pictured above. And it gets better. These are only a few of his designs. Not pictured: the toucan and burger and fries editions - c'man so cute!! Shop these styles here, here, and here. I'm trying to decide between the wink and avocado pair.

Happy Shopping!

.E


Gift Guide: Girl On The Go

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Gift Guide: Girl On The Go


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1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10. | 11. | 12.

The "I am very busy" agenda book speaks the truth. 
And don't we all feel this way, especially around this time of year? With the holidays, family gatherings, work responsibilities and the close of 2015 drawing near, wrapping everything up can feel a little hectic. Keep it all in check by securing some of the best "Girl-On-The-Go" items. Above are a few of my favorite picks which will keep you moving in style and comfort!

Now, get busy!

.E


Follow Mink Sunday!

Monday, November 23, 2015

Follow Mink Sunday!


All That Glitters

All That Glitters


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Everyone needs a touch sparkle in their life, no? I've rounded up some of my favorite gilded pieces above that will bring your outfit/office space/dining table to life!

Gold medals in each category include:

Outfit: The J.Crew pleated knee-length skirt - oh my, I need this in my closet stat!
Office Space: The gold/lucite stapler. What is typically a clunky/ugly desk accessory is now the prettiest piece on display. 
Dinning Table: A set of sparkly gold flatware - This is really a tablescape game changer. I have been on the search for the perfect set, and I am loving this one and this one!

Honorable Mention: I reeeeally want a pair of sequin leggings (pictured above) for the upcoming holidays. I typically am not a huge sequin fan, but this pair would be so cute with an oversized sweater and a great pair of heels.

.E




Play On

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Play On


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The playroom is the area for decorative FUN! So be daring in this space. 

Bright colors, bold wallpaper, and playful accents are necessary.

Take decorative risks, and make sure the set-up is conducive to play and learn.

Some Playroom Must Haves:
Baskets, Baskets, Baskets! - not only do they look chic, they also help to hide the clutter and keep things looking neat and tidy.

Comfortable furniture that can be climbed on and loved - avoid sharp edges and delicate (i.e. breakable) pieces.

Dark colors: opt for a darker shade when choosing an area rug or couch - easier to hide spills and possible likely marker mistakes (who doesn't love to color outside of the lines?!).

Fun artwork on the walls to inspire and encourage make-believe.

I can't wait to one day decorate a great playroom!

.E

Holiday Touch

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Holiday Touch


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It's a struggle to hold back, but since Thanksgiving is almost here, I think it's time to slowly start planning a little holiday decor scheme. 

I prefer small touches scattered throughout my living space. 

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Remove your magazine pile from the coffee table, and replace it with a basket of gold pinecones (tip: buy the cinnamon scented ones! You can typically find these at your local grocery store or garden center). 

Put away your fresh scented candles and burn a woodsy or balsam fir one. 

Change your florals to paperwhites, amaryllis, and poinsettias (be careful, these are poisonous to pets!).

For holiday entertaining, switch out some of your barware for cheeky fun glasses like the ones pictured above & update your champagne flutes for a little extra sparkle.

Dress up your china by adding a striking charger beneath - I love these bright gold ones and they are only $2.49 a piece!!

Hang a lettered garland above your mental or even above your bed for a little extra holiday cheer (Tip: this one is from target and it's a great heavy metal material - another version found here).

Happy Decor Hunting!
.E


New Navy

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

New Navy

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My all time favorite shade? No question, navy.
 The color is so striking on its own, and yet always manages to give off a clean, sophisticated, cool-girl vibe.

 Always polished and put together, classic navy is certainly Best In Show.

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I love wrapping a great silk scarf around my neck (typically stolen from my mom's closet - sorry mom!) but lately I have been into the old school bandanna as a substitute ---> Bandanna inspo here, here, here, and here. Seriously, how cute are these looks and how do I become Parisian chic like those women?

Also, having a major girl crush on the navy faux shearling rug pictured above. I have an identical white one that lays flat over my vanity chair for some extra cushion, but thinking I need to switch it to Navy for the winter months (or for forever…)

Lastly, I can't get enough of polished faux-leather pieces (they are everywhere right now!). Last year I jumped in with some (faux) leather paneled leggings and a great jacket, both in basic black. But this year we are seeing the navy leather everywhere and it's such a step up.

I feel like the go-to move is to always pair navy with white (nautical navy). But this season try mixing it with another shade of blue (cobalt or baby) or a rich camel instead. It's so versatile you basically can't mess up here.

.E 

Let It Snow: Three Winter Looks

Monday, November 16, 2015

Let It Snow: Three Winter Looks

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With the incoming cooler temps and holiday parties quickly approaching, it's always smart to put together a few pre-planned looks that you can throw on in a moments notice. At the risk of sounding redundant, aim to keep these sets fairly neutral so that you can mix and match pieces creating a number of different styles. 
Add in some understated (black) sequins, a pair statement earrings, and a great faux fur piece for that extra holiday pizzaz.

What will you be wearing this holiday season?
.E

Can't Live Without

Friday, November 13, 2015

5 Must Haves


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Narrowing this list down was hard. There are so many "must-have" items in my day-to-day routine, but if I had to pick just five, these would be it!

1. A hotel style bathrobe - Not just any old bathrobe. It's gotta be majorly oversized, terrycloth on the inside (my preference) and super high thread count on the outside. It should have a large collar and giant pockets. Typically if you stay in a nice hotel/resort you have the option to purchase your robe. DO IT. I bought the one at the White Elephant in Nantucket and I seriously wear it every.single.day.

2. Your signature scent - This might take some trial an error to figure out. Be patient. All scents smell differently depending on the person. While I am a perfume addict and have a bunch that I love, I was lucky enough to discover my one true signature scent all the way back in high school and I've never looked back. Coco Chanel Mademoiselle make me feel like me.

3. The perfect mascara - Again, you'll probably try a bunch of duds before you find the one. Perricone MD is my absolute favorite (so random). You can get it at your local Sephora (Tip: make sure to read the instructions on how to use the unique brush before applying). A close second for me is Armani Eyes to Kill (originally suggested by my friend Devon).

4. Silk Pillowcases - I know what you're thinking…"what?" but trust me on this. To begin with, silk pillowcases just feel nice (hello? a silky pillow cloud to rest your head on at the end of a long day??) but they actually come with some great benefits too! If you are crazy about hair health (like me) then you need some silk pillowcases in your life. These babies majorly help to prevent hair breakage when you are tossing and turning at night. They are also great for your skin!! Need more convincing?  Read this for more silky pillow perks! 

5. Great pair of running shoes - I remember a time when I thought wearing sneakers with your normal daytime outfit was basically the nerdiest thing. I used to get second hand embarrassment when I would see someone scooting about in this look. These days, I can't live without my sneakers. Pretty much every morning I throw on my Nikes and walk my caboose to Starbucks and I couldn't be happier in my new daily uniform. Also this, this, and this has convinced me that I made the right choice as a sneaker convert.


Your Turn. 
What are your 5 must-haves that you can't live without?
Share with me!!

.E




What I Bought The Boy: Gift Ideas For Your Guy

Thursday, November 12, 2015

What I Bought The Boy: Gift Ideas For Your Guy


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The one (mini) mistake that J and I made (without realizing) was putting our wedding in late October. I was obsessed with being married in October and wouldn't consider another month…my bad. While it was the perfect time of year to be married, we neglected to think about the fact that my birthday was two weeks later (Nov 7) and then Jeremy's 4 days later on the 11th. Couple the anniversary and birthdays with all of the holiday celebrations and we have set ourselves up for empty bank accounts and overall end-of-year exhaustion. Don't get me wrong it's all great fun, but not gonna lie, it's a lot to pack into a few weeks! 

I'm thinking next year we do one big trip to celebrate it all!

I thought I'd compile a list of some of the gifts I have bought for J over the years as a sort of gift-guide for the special boy in your life (boyfriend, husband, brother, dad…). Hint: I find that clothing, booze, and electronics are never misses. 

For his birthday yesterday I got him this and then those Artemis kilim loafers (pictured above). The shoes are so cool as each pair is one of a kind, with materials cut from Turkish carpets. They have amaaaazing women's shoes too!

The needlepoint life belt I made him years ago is also one of his favorites that he still loves and wears all the time, though I need to make him a new one as we have a new anniversary date and some new milestones to add!

What are some great gifts you have bought for your favorite guys?
.E

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Sonos Smart Speakers (comes in three sizes)

PS4 (I bought him PS3 a few years ago - worst idea, we basically didn't talk for days while he played…

KanJam - This game is SO fun 

Quilted Barbour Coat - Got J the black!

Waxed Barbour Jacket - This was one of the first gifts I ever gave J and 5 years later he's still wearing and loving - great purchase!

Life Belt - If you can't needle point your own, work with Smathers & Branson for a custom belt, they are great!

Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Tip: Get the custom engraved bottle to celebrate a special event!




Ferragamo Driving Shoes - Now on sale! 

Artemis Kilim Shoes - One of a kind! Make sure to check the size guide












Be Our Guest

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

For The Hostess

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With all of the upcoming holiday parties and Fall get togethers, it's always a good idea to keep a running list of some great hostess gifts! 

Without going over the top, you want your gift to be fun, personal, and also functional. Think about your host and what they enjoy doing in their free time. 
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Have a friend who LOVES Christmas? Grab a few cute ornaments that tell their story! 
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Does your pal enjoy entertaining? Try a custom lucite tray or a set of cool coasters or cheeky cocktail napkins. 
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Does your GF love to cook? How adorable are those potted rosemary plants? She can stick it right on her counter and clip away as needed! 
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And of course you can never go wrong with my absolute favorite - a great candle with a decorative matchbox.

Plan ahead & show up with a small token of appreciation for the hospitality 

Planners Tip: Take one weekend to stock up on a few gifts that you can tuck away in a closet. This way, if you have a last minute invite or a crazy busy week, you are all set to wrap it up and scoot out the door! 

Happy Partying!

.E


Tortoise Treats

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Tortoise Treats

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Nothing is more timelessly classic than tortoise shell. 

A look that fits in your home and in your closet in an ohhh so perfect way. I bought some tortoise shell tumbler glasses on One Kings Lane a few years back, and they are still one of my very favorite OKL purchases to date. 
This neutral piece pairs perfectly with every possible accent color, and is a great print to turn to for all of your decorative/wardrobe needs. 

My top three favorites featured above: 
2. The tortoise flats (can you believe that price?!). 
3. The tortoise bowl - so many DIY ideas popping into my head for this piece!

.E


Eight Friday Wishes

Friday, November 6, 2015

Eight Friday Wishes


1. | 2. | .3 | .4 | .5 | .6 | .7 | .8

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Tomorrow is my 25th 30th birthday (deep.breaths.). Everyone keeps telling me that the 30's truly are the best, but I'm finding it really odd to no longer be in my 20's!! Nothing a little pink champagne can't fix. It also doesn't hurt to include a fun little wish list (That deer hide clutch though??)
So, here's to embracing the next decade and all that it has to offer.

.E