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

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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

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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!

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

Puffer Jacket

Rain Coat

Clarks Desert Boots

Ferragamo Driving Shoes - Now on sale! 

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

Patagonia Hat

Daniel Wellington Watch

Be Our Guest

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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

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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: 

1. The tortoise clutch. 

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

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

Calming Cotton

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A serene bathroom space is on my must-have list. 

There are two types of people in this world, bath people, and shower people. Yes, an amazing shower is necessary for the function of everyday life, and it is certainly an area that deserves great attention to detail. However, I have always been a bath lover and a great soaking tub is #1 in my bathroom. 

If you are going to commit to being a bath person (duh, it's a lifestyle), this space has to be tranquil and soothing. Soft colors, linens, and lighting are pertinent, and if you really want to do it right, splurge for the heated floors - my God they are the best (go heated towel rack for a budget friendly version). Soothing sound machine vibes or built in bathroom speakers are a bonus, and obviously if its after 5 4 p.m., a glass of wine is the cherry on top.

.E

Wishfully 11.4.15

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Some of my weekly favorites above! 

Let's break it down:

The perfect plaid boyfriend shirt - this is my jam. Dress it up, tucked into a knee length (faux) leather skirt (love this one). Or dress it waaayy down with a great pair of boyfriend jeans.

That coral piece is only $38 and is such a statement piece. Style it on a bookshelf, bedside table, or entryway console table. I need this in my life.

Banana Republic fringe top. Love this for the holidays! It also comes in black. Wear with a great pair of skinnies and hold on to it for summer - how cute would this be with your favorite pair of patterned shorts?

J-Crew Studded ankle boots - I saw these in store and they are incredible. Dear J-Crew, put these on sale right meow!

I am loving those tassel bracelets. The colors are so good and they are dainty enough to layer up! I want all three.

I have been searching for a great gold flatware set for a long time now, and the price point on this set is spot on. Fun for the holidays or a great girly brunch 

Loving this dainty ring stack. Spread them out across your hands or wear them all on the same finger. They also come in a stack of 5 found here

Another pair of great ankle booties from Zara. I honestly used to buy Zara shoes ALL the time. They were always so fun and unique but then they started to get weird. Glad they are bringing it back. These are awesome.

I love art work in pairs. This gold set would do wonders in a half bath or bedroom. Majorly crushing on the simplicity of that gold leaf.

Dear Santa, this hard case clutch is deff on my Christmas list this year!

Hope you all are having a great week!

.E

Thanksgiving Tablescape

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Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays to decorate for. In my family each person gets a day-of job, and my job has always been to handle the dinner tablescape design. I love looking for little elements that might fit whatever color scheme I am aiming for that year. This year, there are some amazing white and grey/blue pumpkins near the lake that I might pick up to go with a soft neutral pallet. This is some of my inspiration . This too.

Above are hand picked items that would make any turkey day table complete. I am in love with magnolia leaves and have always wanted to DIY those place cards (how cute are they?!). You can also take any leaves from outside (try big maple leaves) and spray them gold then write on them with black ink. Super simple!

I am obsessed with pheasant feathers, not just for Thanksgiving but all year round! Pop them in a silver julep cup or antique trophy for some added texture to your room. 

The gold wishbone is my favorite and is perfect for Thankgiving (who else used to snap wishbones with a wish when you were younger?). Lay one at each place setting over the napkin for a little extra sparkle. This can be used in place of a decorative napkin ring (one of my favorites also shown above).

Your table linens do not have to be super Thanksgiving themed (i.e. Turkey prints, fall leaves etc). Instead try a more unexpected pattern like the paisley/floral print above. Just be sure to keep the colors on theme and within the same tonal family. 

Lastly, a really fun way to add personality to any dinner table (any time of year) is with your salt and pepper shakers (I know, so random). I actually discovered this while registering for our wedding. There are SO many cute little S&P pairs out there, you could literally go crazy (my favorite brand is Charles Sadek - Sold at the Little House Shop if you are local). Bunnies and chicks for Easter, partridges sitting in pear trees for Christmas, and some great pine cones (featured above) for Thanksgiving (also loving these pheasant birds).

Still.Can't.Believe.It's.November.

.E

Pastel Burst

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L.O.V.I.N.G the light pink focal point of this little sitting area. Being such a feminine piece with clean lines and detail, makes it an extra fun surprise when paired with bolder more contemporary details throughout the rest of the room. The modern paint strokes in the art hung above compliment the starburst lamps and legs on the coffee table, while the loops of the side tables mirror the arms of the love seat and the detail in the faded oriental carpet. The room is soft in color, but daring in texture and layers. 

Color me sold.

.E