Oscars 2016: Best & Worst Dressed

BEST

Yes: Love the color and silhouette of this Stella McCartney gown on Olivia Munn. Finished off perfectly with a jeweled snake bangle and matching orange lip.

Yes: How incredible does Rachel McAdams look in this August Getty gown (she's also my favorite Hollywood lady, so this made me extra happy). I feel like the hunter green shade is so rarely done which surprises me since its such a good color for all different skin tones and hair colors. 

Yes: The pant-gown. I actually love this Brandon Maxwell look, especially for Lady Gaga (it's a far cry from the meat dress amiright?). It really softens her look and gives her a solid androgynous balance.

Yes: Margot Robbie looked stunning in this Tom Ford gold number. Normally I hate snake skin print, but I barely even noticed that part. I also love how she did a play on the plunging neckline without having to show her damn belly button (what is with that trend? I cannot stand it).

Yes: Naomi Watts in Armani Privé looks stunning. This dress reminds me of the rainbow fish. The fading color and scale-like sequins are gorgeous!

Honorable Mention: Charlize Theron in Dior. She obviously looks beautiful (and this is very similar to my junior year prom dress - same color and sliding string neckline), but again with that deep plunging neckline… I can't. We don't need to see that much of your stomach and also, yawn - every dress has this detail now. Do more (but show less).

WORST

No: I like the idea of this dress but the execution is just all wrong. The straps look like someone closed their eyes and sewed them on (is that one on the left supposed to be crooked?!). I also wish the leather detail didn't hook down on the white skirt. This would have been SO much better strapless and without the dip and hooks at the bottom of the bodice. 

No: No, No, No just No. The only redeeming quality of this gown is the pretty ombre purple shade. Otherwise, this is just so wrong in so many ways. Too many flowers, too much fabric, too much underboob… Remove the single sleeve, remove the flower decals and this dress would be so much better. 

No: This just made me sad. I mean, she might as well be topless, and I don't care for the little back cape/angel wings. I like the skirt (color and pleats) but everything from the waist up is so bad. Including that weird choker necklace/dog collar thing she's wearing. 

Who were your favorites?

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Magenta Bloom

Fri-YAY!!

Currently: Feeling oh so inspired by bright & bold magenta. I've mentioned before, I'm not a HUGE pink person, but this shade with its purple undertones is really doing it for me lately. 

Put some magenta in your life with these, this, this and these.

Also, someone pleeeeease gift me this gold hand vase!

Bon Weekend, Friends!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

The Cut // No.2

…..

This Cut this week has something for everyone. The shoe lover, the gym rat, the homebody, and the blacktie bombshell. 

Get ready to shop.

I've been on the search for a table top mirror which is #necessary for all things brow taming. This one is perfect and is $30 from Target!

I'm so into this Nordstrom gold leaf hair drape. It comes in gold or silver, and is a steal at $18.

Did you catch my winter wedding attire post last month? This dress is definitely one to top that list. The details are so gorgeous!

I love this Zella convertible workout top that can be worn tied up or long. It comes in 5 colors (I want them all) and has a back mesh panel for cooling. Buying new workout clothes is definitely the way to keep motivated!

I don't know why, but I've been really into sleeveless turtleneck sweaters lately. They look so good paired with a soft white blouse underneath or simply worn on their own. I love this one with the cut out side details. Definitely go with a simple black here.

Dreaming of sunny beach days? Me too. That is why we both need to order this adorable one-piece cover up STAT. Comes in black and white!

I love this little gold bangle because it reminds me of this one that I wrote about here but is a fraction of the cost! This bracelet would be great to gift to all of your girlfriends picking a different string color for each person!

These pretty pastel Kate Spade ear climbers remind me of cherry blossom season in DC!

Two words: Ombre Romper. How cute is the little onesie? Wear this to a Summer cocktail party to mix things up!

Only mildly embarrassed to admit I want something from Kendall and Kylie Jenner's clothing line….These shoes are really different and interesting though! You know I love a good mule (see yesterday's post) but that sharp point at the top of the ankle really brings out the YES factor.

Is fringe here to stay? Maybe so because I keep finding pieces that I love and that show me fringe in a new light. Exhibit A - Size 7.5 in mint please!

Have a great day!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Spend//Save 2.24.16

…..

There are so many amazing pieces in this week's Spend//Save. 

I am trying to find the perfect pair of cognac mules and to be honest, I really love the save version over the splurge. #SaveFTW

I've been on the look out for a great long sleeved romper for the upcoming transitional months. I grabbed a simple black one from Loft last season and got so much wear out of it. This time I'm looking for a fun pattern and both of these picks are spot on. (pssst! The Old Navy one is on sale for under $15 today!).

How adorable are these bow-back tops! The J.Crew one is currently on sale for $24 with code "SALETIME".

I totally understand if you stop reading my blog after my next statement: 

I really want a hand chain.

There, I said it. But I really do think the teeny, tiny, dainty gold ones are so cute! If you are feeling fully committed, you can pick up this Zoe Chicco 14k gold and diamond version for a cool $725. I am obviously going to pursue the save version since this is a more trendy piece. Loving this one and this one!

I am so in love with these cheeky Eugenia Kim sun hats. They will however set you back around $450 but they're so darling, they might be worth it! Get the look for less with this similar Kate Spade version!

I own the Rebecca Minkoff mini M.A.C bag (who doesn't?) and truly, I got so many miles out of it over the years. But this Nordstrom BP look-alike is so similar and is only $32!

Why spend when you can save?

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

MinkSunday's BaubleBar Picks

…..

No question, BaubleBar is THE best one-stop shop for amazingly gorgeous, well priced pieces. They really have it together and are consistently on-point with their style. I am so obsessed with the Southwestern vibe they currently have going on (remember this post from last August and this post from 2013?!).

They also really really crush it in the statement earring department. I have to have these and these.

Also how pretty is that double finger ring climber. It reminds me of these Gorjana earrings I wear on repeat. 

Above are my top picks. I want em all! 

What are your favorites?

.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Clutched

Floral | Champagne | Black Woven | Marble | Mr & Mrs | Scalloped | Pink Straw | Shell

…..

If you're in your 20's or 30's, chances are you're running crazy on the wedding circuit right now. We had twelve weddings last year (you heard me, 12!) and this year have another five. It's definitely crazy but SO fun. 

A week ago we went to one of my good college friend's gorgeous NYC wedding, which was such a blast. In the weeks leading up I was chatting with another gf about how hard it is to find a really good clutch. Especially for a black tie event. 

Seriously, who besides me has a bunch of old, out of style, beaten up (aka ugly) clutches from your college days? I decided to package them all up for Goodwill (since none of them are really working for me anymore), and to turn my focus to finding a few great transitional pieces that can take me from day-night, city-vacation, spring-fall. 

Above is a round up of some of my very favorites with links to shop!

Clearly my personal preference is a box clutch - How gorgeous is this one??

Happy Monday, Friends!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Natural Neutrals

…..

It all started with that couch and everything else seemed to fall right into place! 

Can we first discuss the detail on this linen gem? I've never seen nailhead trim done so well and the shape of the piece is absolute perfection. 

Looks cozy and inviting but also clean and sleek!

I wanted everything else to be neutral warm-tones accented with creams and golds. I am obsessed with pressed botanical prints (which I also featured here) and love the look of succulents in a living space (they are a great choice for those of us who struggle to keep vegetation alive…).

Lastly, I wanted various textures that complimented one another, so I added the Greek key rug, bamboo mirrored table, and basket weave side tables, which if you look closely are also dotted with nailhead detail to mimic the sofa…everything full circle my friends!

This may be my favorite room design that I have created to date. I will definitely be replicating a variation of this vignette in my future home!

Have a wonderful day!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

The Cut // No. 1

…..

Here's what's making the cut this week:

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads - Tried these for the first time this past weekend and they are so so so good. A nice glowy face tan with zero streaking and zero orange undertones!

Fekkai Technician Color Care Mask - I used to only use Fekkai shampoo/condit. and loved the brand. Excited to try this mask which has amazing reviews.

Gorjana Viceroy Necklace - I am a huge Gorjana fan. I really love dainty, delicate jewelry pieces and that is exactly what you get with this line. I love the simplicity of this circle pendant. Great on it's own or layered with other pretty littles.

Therapedic Classic Contour Bed Pillow - I wake up with neck pain almost every morning which typically leads to an immediate headache…no bueno. Hoping this curved technology and cooling feature will do the trick!

Lovee Banded Flats - Love is right! I'm so crushing on these little flats for the Spring! I can't get enough of floral prints (see here) and that extra little strap across the top has me sold.

Nolla Mules - I am so into mules/slides of all heights and colors. They are easy to wear since they just slip right on and they look so polished with their clean lines and simplicity. Really really in love with this pair.

Lace Mockneck Tee - Who doesn't love some lady-like lace?? But really it's that color that sets this blouse apart from all the others. I used to HATE the color orange but this shade has me thinking I might be a convert!

Tortoise Glass Tumblers - I have an identical set of tumblers that I bought on One Kings Lane years ago and we get so much use out of them! They're great to add to your tablescape when entertaining!

What's made your cut this week?

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Inside Carolyne Roehm's Connecticut Home

Do yourself a favor and take two minutes to check out Carolyne Roehm's Connecticut home tour featured on One Kings Lane. It's hard to find the words but simply put, this place is 'perfection'. Everything I dream of in a home nestled neatly under a pile of Georgian inspired bricks. 

My God this home is done right!

Image Via OKL

The best part of this house is that everything is perfectly placed with symmetry in mind starting with those swirly topiaries out front.

Image Via OKL

I'm obsessed with the light in this room. It seems to cast from every direction and the perimeter balcony is a perfect nod back to the classic Georgian feel of this home. (Fun Fact: I took a Georgian Architecture class when I lived in Bath, England which I loved!).

Image Via OKL

This Pantry is kept clean and sleek with the bright white, light reflecting glass, and single island runner down the center (topiaries again #ohhhmyyygoodnesssss).

Image Via OKL

I see zero issues with having my morning coffee here everyday…

Image Via OKL

Can you imagine the entertaining that you could do in this greenhouse? My parents actually have a green house attached to the guest cottage at our farm house, and this has me feeling super inspired to make it over! The sunlight keeps these spaces fairly warm even in the dead of winter. 

Can you picture a GORGEOUS Christmas Eve dinner under the moonlight in the above space?! Head.Is.Spinning…

Image Via OKL

I'm not much of a gardener…I actually have somewhat of a brown thumb but I want to learn so bad because I LOVE flowers and well maintained gardens!! This little botanical office is for the serious gardener who doesn't mess around. 

Again with the bright white and sunlight!! 

Dead.

Find more sneak peaks into this gorgeous CT home here!

Happy Weekend!!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Top Picks Under $100

Sun Hat | Geometric Scarf | Graphic Sweatshirt | Bikini Top | Straw Hat | Ruffle Sweater | Slide Sandals | Tassel Earrings | Black Booties

…..

Today I'm bringing you some of my very favorite items, all of which are under $100! These are great pieces to add to your closet that won't break the bank.

Keeping things short today as I run around prepping for a wedding weekend in NYC (Hi Morgie!). Trying to figure out what color mani to get…wearing a black dress - Thoughts?

P.S. I just picked up those booties and the gold heel is to dieeeeee for!

Happy Almost Weekend, Friends!

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Spend//Save

Spend: Suit, Tote, Sweatshirt, Slides, Straw Bag

Save: Suit, Tote, Tee, Slides, Straw Bag


There is almost always a look for less!
You just have to have the patience to find it!

Above are some of my current favorites along side their almost identical twins. Sure, some pieces are definitely worth investing in (a great black bag, a neutral shoe etc) but when you just want to add some color and flare to your ensemble, look to the right column!

Easy on the eyes and easy on the wallet.

Happy Shopping!
.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Under The Palms

…..

Like clockwork, February hits and I start itching for a warm tropical getaway. I'm a person who is always cold…like freezing, chilled to the bone cold, so the first few months of the year feel super brutal to me. 

Not to mention I just had my annual checkup and my blood work showed my vitamin D levels were low. So basically my body is telling me to get into the damn sunshine!

As I previously mentioned, I'm dying to get to Pig Island in the Bahamas. Palm Springs is also on my bucket list and I would be more than happy to scoot back to Palm Beach for a long weekend. 

Palms leaves, tassels, pom poms, espadrilles, sun hats, scalloped suits, rose, and woven straw clutches in pinks and greens are sure to get you in the spirit!

Where is your favorite warm getaway spot?

.E

This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

New Arrival Must-Haves

Textured Shell | Boyfriend Button Down | Two Tone Blazer | Brow Leather Jacket | Straw Bag | Swim Suit

……

Happy Friday, Friends! I woke up this morning to MORE snow which I had no idea was even supposed to happen. I'm not complaining though, I actually love the snow - It's so pretty!

Wanted to share a brief list of some new arrivals I've been eyeing. 

I feel like brands go through waves of cuteness. I am either totally uninspired (miss), or I am dying for everything (hit). Currently things are looking up! 

It's kind of an awkward time to shop because its still freezing (and snowy) but we're also itching for the Spring temps/fashion which is starting to pop up here and there (#amiright?). 

Above you'll find a great mix to get you through.

{Links Above}

Happy Shopping & Happy Weekend!

P.S. I've decided brown leather is amazing for blondes… 

.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Collections

……

Truth be told, I'm not much of a collector. 

I really tend to lean toward a cleaner, more clutter-free space and feel overwhelmed by most trinkets (ugh I even hate that word). That said, there are two things I have become an avid collector of, and I don't see myself turning back anytime soon. 

1. The Ginger Jar: 

If you've been reading along all these years, you know I am a blue and white addict. Almost all of my home design posts include at least SOME element of this color combo, and you know what? I'm ok with that.

Blue and white is my religion and the ginger jar is my worship idol. 

I love how each jar stays within the two-tone color scheme, but they are all so unique varying in height, pattern and shape. This creates great depth and scale in your space. 

I'll never forget arguing trying to explain to J why we ABSOLUTELY did need to another blue and white jar added to our wedding registry… Who's with me here?

2. Herend Figurines:

Back in the 80's a very common baby gift (at least where I grew up) was the small glass figurine. I have probably 8 or 9 glass animal pieces (hello…does anyone remember Beatrix Potter figurines??)  that I was gifted when I was born. 

I love the little detail of a small chick or bunny rabbit placed on your mantel or peaking out from your bookshelf. They look great scattered amongst picture frames, or perched right on your bedside table. 

These playful little creatures may be somewhat childish, but if you don't over do it, they make for happy little additions to your room. 

If you think J was excited about the ginger jars, you can just imagine his thrill of the Herend figurine…A battle I may never win.

Do you have a special item that you or your family collects?

.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Clam Bake

…..

I don't know about you, but I'm so ready for this snow to melt and for the warmer temps to start creeping in. I am typically a Fall/Winter person (I HATE being hot), but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to longer days and springy temps.

Luckily Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow this morning (I feel like he always sees it, no?!) So we should be getting an early Spring!
Clearly a ground hog is a creditable source…

…..

White jeans are an obvious choice (for all year round - we've had this discussion) but they definitely look their best when paired with nautical stripes and summery blues. And staying true to myself (and my hat addiction), there is really nothing better then a great summer sun hat too!

I am forever obsessed with Eugenia Kim's cheeky Sunny and Bunny hats! Can you handle those adorable little sayings?! I need one stat. And since I am dying to book a trip to Piggy Island (Seriously, do you guys know about this place??), I think it would be the perfect backdrop for an EK topper!

Let's all get ready to spring forward!
.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com

Wishfully 2.1.16

…..

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9

Jeezzz guys! 

It's been a while since I've done a Wishfully post. I felt spoiled over the holidays so I sort of took a break from tracking shopping wants, but seeing as this list took me all of 5 minutes to put together, proves just how many adorable things there are out there right now!

I've noticed that almost every Wishfully post includes at least one pair of shoes. Which then led me to realize I've become a total shoe addict without even realizing it. I just picked up these adorable zebra Soludos this past week (on super sale!). And I also have these, these, and these in my cart!

I'm also obviously always scoping out new home decor items and have a serious eye on those Safavieh double gourd lamps with the gold trimmed shades…swoon!

Lets get to shopping!

.E


This post first appeared on MinkSunday.com