Holiday Gift Guide - For The Ladies

When I started this blog five years ago my husband teased me that I was solely writing about things that I wanted, he called it my endless shopping wish list. While I told him that wasn't true since I often write about things I wish I was adventurous enough to wear or had the bod to pull off. However today I would be happy to admit that I would be pretty pleased if any of these gifts made their way down the chimney at my house this Christmas. 

These fun faux fur pom key chains will help make finding your keys at the bottom of your bag a lot more cute. 

I shared my favorite pajamas here, these are a bit more of a luxe version and coordinating slippers never hurt. More sleepwear options here. 

These earrings are a much more wallet friendly version of the famous les bon bons.

This little bag haunts me. I see it everywhere in every color but the red is fitting for the season. 

A cozy plaid poncho for wrapping up in. 

This adjustable length bracelet is a favorite of mine with it's ease to put on solo. 

A pretty lace top in black or white would look beautiful on your gal for new years. 

We love having Shinola here in Boston. This double wrap watch is one to want. 

These slightly distressed denim with the very on trend step hem is a must in a gal's wardrobe.  Found a great look a like with extended sizes here. 

A chic floppy hat in a neutral color goes with everything. More options here. 

Don't know what fragrance she loves, well this sampler set will definitely fit the bill. I can attest to the fact that they all smell incredible. I also love these little guys for travel. 

A classic silk dress that will never go out of style is a perfect gift to give with a promise of night out on the town. 

These shoes are some sexy shizzz...love them. Also come in flats for a more practical style.

This faux fur jacket looks like the real deal with zero guilt, it also has the yummiest sweatshirt liner that makes this coat extra comfy. 

These simple yet super stylish sunnies are everything. Duplicates for $55 here. 

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Nantucket Packing List

In a few weeks we are off for our our annual trip to Nantucket. Out of all the places in the world this little island is my absolute favorite. There are a million things to love about that gray little island, from it's uniformly beautiful town center filled with New England charm, great restaurants, multiple beaches and stunning real estate, it's easy to see why it's so loved from people everywhere. Since we will be there to celebrate the 4th of July my packing list is gravitating towards the patriotic color scheme. I mean after all it is the land of the preppy and all things Americana so I think sticking to the red white and blue will fit the bill perfectly!

Currently Coveting - Gray & White

Maybe it's all the gray weather and the snow covered city or perhaps my addiction to everything neutral but gray and white is having a major moment in my clothing right now. I absolutely love the two together for a crisp clean look that help me brighten up a dull winter wardrobe. A few of my favorites are below. 

shop all of the above & more with the images below

Away We Go!

image via Splendia 

Boston's brutal winter weather has officially ticked me off and made me wonder why we choose to pay so much money to live in a place that is graced with the shortest summer season. I always feel my best when the sun is out and the days are long. We accomplish more in our day, we eat better, are more active and generally just in a better mood when it's warm and sunny. So to reboot our souls we are off to a warmer climate to indulge in some relaxed island living. I am so excited to return to the emerald island of St. Barth where we celebrated our honeymoon almost four years ago. It will be a fabulous place to turn another year older and spend some quality time with my favorite person. I will be signing off from the blogosphere till the middle of next week but feel free to come say hi over on instagram. I will be sure to share some vacation snaps where you are free to give me a hard time for being in paradise ; ) Shop some of beach gear below that I have packed away for lounging in the sun.

pom tote

Cash Or Credit - City Uniform

Happy Friday friends! We are back in the big apple for a quick last minute work trip. When I pack last minute for anything I tend to grab my tried and true. Is there an easier outfit then a white top and black denim. Yes it can be considered basic but I rather look at it as a classic and full proof. So I thought I would take the opportunity to produce a cash or credit round up featuring my favorites.



cash - top // jeans // clutch // hoops // pumps
credit -  top // jeans // clutch // hoops // pumps

Have a great weekend everyone!

Currently Coveting

I don't want to wish away summer - it's going by too fast as it is...but let's face it, nothing is better then fall fashion. I have been building a little wish list for my fall wardrobe must haves and they consist of lots of basics {per usual} but amping those pieces up with some stellar accessories. What are you craving to have in your wardrobe this coming fall???



Tibi Crossover Tank // Vera Wang Statement Necklace // Iphone Case // J.Crew Destroyed Denim // Vince Jacket // Aquazurra Sexy Thing Sandal // J.Crew White Blouse // J.Crew Tassel Bracelet // Rebecca Taylor Dress // Feather Clip // Calypso Short Sleeve Sweater // Beaded Clutch // SJP Pumps

Pom-Pom

Quick post today as I am rushing out the door off to celebrate my nieces 6th birthday! As I pack up the candy kebobs and caramel apples I was thinking of other cheerful items like the pom-pom. Whether its used in garland at party, trim on your fashions or in your home, this fun poufy little edging adds just a little more spunk to whatever it is on. A few of my favorites are below - oh & check out this amazing pom DIY!



pom curtains // paper poms // pom scarf // pom throw // pom cami // pom pillow // pom coverup // pom shorts // pom print // pom sandal // pom fedora // pom sweater // pom floor pillow // pom headband // pom trim tank // pom cuff // pom pins // pom clutch

Now & Later - Maxi Skirt

I have been buying a lot of color lately. Something that is very odd for this girl who is usually dressed in head to toe black. My most recent purchase is this flamingo pink maxi skirt that I am completely obsessed with. Since I purchased for our vacation I knew immediately how I wanted to style it but since it was a bit of a splurge for me I also have been daydreaming on how to wear it now while the temps are still a bit cool. Below are my two outfit inspirations for wearing the skirt now and come Spring {if it ever comes}. How do you wear bright colors in the off season???



now - moto jacket // tank // hoops // sequin clutch // cutout booties
later - cami // necklace // floral clutch // lipgloss // sandals // sunglasses

Spring Wishlist

I'm having a major itch to do some shopping and refresh my wardrobe with some new Spring clothes. I am seriously over sweaters, coats & boots. A few things below are on my list...some I have picked up, some are still on my wish-list. What are you coveting come warmer weather???



These Loren Hope cuffs are perfection, I would stack this midnight colored gem with a neutral clear stone to go with everything in my wardrobe all Spring & Summer. A classic trench is always a wardrobe staple, I would wear with those floral sling backs, casual ankle length jeans & a striped tee or that pretty peplum top around town.  Loeffler Randall makes some killer shoes, I was obsessed with a similar style last season, I think these cobalt beauties would be a great new pop of color in my neutral wardrobe. Bomber jackets are everywhere this season. I am OBSESSED with this Rebecca Taylor one. When heading to warmer temps, this chevron coverup and stylish one piece are a perfect pair for a poolside chic look. A fabulous day to night dress. Finally a nautical inspired clutch and gold iPhone case are great accessories to go with all my favorite looks. 

Weekend Wear - The Statement Shoe

While in NYC earlier in the week I stopped in the J.Crew Collection store on the Upper East Side. I love stopping in there to see some of their higher end line in person and to try on what is usually not available in the Boston stores. While I was there I picked up a patch print pump that I am completely obsessed with. They are so not my typical purchase but I really think they will turn one of my typical all black outfits into something a little more fun. While they aren't available online, you can call the store to order. J.Crew is definitely a favorite for stylish footwear for me so I thought I would put together a fun weekend look with another one of their fabulous printed pumps. I love pairing a casual sweater and denim along with a dressier shoe and accessories for a night out on the town. 

J.Crew Collection Paisley Pumps // Calypso St. Barth Sweater // Rag & Bone Denim // Bauble Bar Baguette Step Earring // One by TL-180 Clutch 

Seeing Double

I have noticed a bit of a trend this fall in my shopping habits that is a tad new to me. Everything that I have purchased and loved I have purchased again in another color. While some may think this is a pretty stale way to build a wardrobe, I think of it as I buy what I like and if the style works why not indulge in more then one color if it. The only issue I have since noticed is that my entire wardrobe is black white & grey. A few of my favorite purchases this season are below and I am curious to ask, am I the only person who buys two of their favorite items or would you rather have more of varying styles in your fashion repertoire?

Helmut Lang is the the founding father of the asymmetrical hem. I bought this dressed up sweatshirt jacket in gray and black and they have been on heavy rotation ever since.

I love a wrap top, I find them flattering on my large bust and this neckline was low enough to show a little bit of skin but not low enough to make me self conscious. I clearly needed in every color available. Black & white available here & blush available here.

My friend Amelia showed me this scarf and I quickly loved it in every color and the favorable price point. The navy {sold out online} & the gold were my favorites.

J.Crew's Valentina pump has been a long time favorite style of mine. I first purchased in the patent leather leopard and this season I couldn't resist the oxblood and calf hair leopard for the perfect combination of comfort and style. I literally can walk in these all over the city with zero pain.

A classic striped t-shirt is an essential in every wardrobe. I loved this soft jersey tee so much that the navy & the grey both were an easy purchase. I could live in this item.

Stella & Dot Renegade Bracelet is stretchy edgy fun bracelet that I love in both silver & gold.

I love a tie neck top paired with denim and great pumps. I purchased this blouse in black & white but loved this more affordable option available at H&M. 

Tunic Time

Tunics are one of those wardrobe staples that I always turn too for an effortlessly chic look. While in Nantucket, I lived in this sparkly Lilly Pulitzer number and most recently I gifted this lovely tunic in navy for my fabulous sisters birthday {the higher sides of this shirt keep it from looking like maternity wear}.  This loose fitting styled blouse pairs well with skinny jeans for a dressier look as well as shorts for a day time outing or can stand alone as a coverup for a summer day on the beach. I personally love the style every time of year wearing over leather pants {also seen here} and or with destroyed skinny denim with killer heels. It might be that I am disguising my german hips but I also feel comfortable and stylish whenever I wear them, which has me curious...what do you think of this style? 

one // two // three // four // five // six

Signature Scents

Statement necklaces aren't the only items I like to layer on one another, I also adore doing this with my perfume. I often find myself wearing the same scent for years and years till it's either discontinued or I just can't take the fragrance any longer. I feel perfume is an important element in a beauty routine and I never leave home without a spritz on my neck and on my wrists. Fragrances are also interesting in that they always smell different on everyone. I personally love mixing complementing scents to create a unique scent that is all my own. I know my cousin who is a professional "nose" in the perfume industry is cringing as she reads this. She has always told me that it's insulting to the maker as incredible amounts of research and science is behind each and every perfume but I gotta be me and make my signature scent, some of my favorites for mixing are below. 

You probably notice a trend with my selection. I am always partial to anything vanilla and think it works well with soft floral scents. However in the summer time, nothing beats coconut and vanilla with hints of apricot. Every time I mix these two people ask what I am wearing. Together its a little bit of tropical sun kissed goodness. My newest water and petal scents are more of an elegant combination of which I like to use when I am dressing up. Finally my long time favorite lavender and vanilla from Calypso St. Barth is my everyday go to fragrance that is warm and not overpowering. Even their candles are heavenly. 

What is your favorite perfume???

Sales Galore!

Happy Friday friends...I am so sad to be wrapping up the most amazing vacation. I am also literally in the worst place to ever write a blog. The wireless internet is so temperamental and anything I do on my phone uses three times the battery life which means by the time I have something worth sharing my phone is dead, so needless to say, todays post is a short one. What is working is my inbox and it is chock full of sales from some of my favorite stores. It seems now is the perfect time to build your summer wardrobe without breaking the bank. Afterall today is ofically the first day of summer!

Juicy Couture {summer sale} - neon yellow dress // sunburst dress {own & love} // black & white dress 

J.Crew {25% off your purchase, code NEWSTYLE} - pineapple swimwear // tortoise statement necklace // big spot dress // green sandals // pleated chiffon top // gold foil cork clutch

Calypso St. Barth {$50 off every $175, code GCSUM13} - eyelet cotton dress // floral clutch // crystal sandals // embroidered mini // flower printed poncho // pink skirt // belt // lavender tunic 

Other great sales are at Bloomingdales & Anthropologie I would be sure to pick up this summery tunic, easy day dress & adorable apron for cooking in style. I recently picked up this flowy tank and easy breezy beach dress. What summer items are you adding to your wardrobe???

Have a great weekend & Happy Shopping!!!

Mothers Day Gift Guide - Perfect Pairings

Moms are pretty special people and really deserve more than a day to be reminded just how wonderfully appreciated they are. So in honor of these women who do it all for their families I thought I would put together a fun gift guide but with a twist. Gifts with the perfect pairings. Check out all the details below. 

card

Make your moms desk pretty with a monogrammed note cards and some pretty pens in a shiny mint julep holder. You can even write her a personal note on the stationary to let her know just how much she means to you so each time she uses it she is reminded that she is appreciated. 

Who says tea parties have to stop when you are all grown up??? I personally love a high tea, especially when bubbly is involved and what is more special then making a sophisticated tea party for you and your mama, especially when she can keep the set!

Macarons // Tea Set // Bubbly // Tea // Napkins

Plan a Provence themed picnic equipped with all the luxurious necessities to make mom feel lost in the blissful French lifestyle. 

Picnic Basket // Cheese Selection // Sancerre // Marquis De Calon // Chevron Blanket

I don't know a woman out there who doesn't appreciate some new jewelry for any occasion. I love the idea of giving the jewelry along with a stylish holder to have your gift stand out amongst the others. 

mama diamond ring // mama always said bracelet // elephant bowl // heart & key earrings // mom necklace

Go halfsies with your gift giving and pick out a little something like a fabulous clutch filled with moms favorite beauty products and a personalized compact and a gift card to her favorite store so she can go shopping!

gift card // clutch // compact // cosmetics 

Perfume is always a favorite standby for any woman. Instead of buying the pre-packaged sets with little style or thought create your own little package of moms favorites. 

bellini scented candle // bellini scented perfume // custom matches // personalized tray

Is your mama the ultimate hostess??? If so why not give her all the fixings to create a great cocktail. Afterall summer is around the corner and margaritas are the perfect drink to toast to mom & the warmer weather!

patron // margarita mixes // lime margarita salt // ice cube trays // acrylic glasses // tray 

Happy Gift Giving!

Weekend Wear - Spring Essentials

Inspired by yesterday's post on style icons, I thought I would build a little list of some great wardrobe essentials come warmer weather. It's safe to say every woman has a little black dress in their closet that is their go to for any last minute events but what about a little white dress? The little Tibi number below is timeless in its classic silhouette and appropriate hem length. It's perfectly paired with a simple "go with everything" necklace and neutral sandal. Striped tee's, white denim and a great trench go without saying but of course I had to include three that I love. A gauzy tunic with a little sparkle embellishment will always be a favorite of mine along with the a simple thong sandal along with a black one piece for swimwear, something that will never go out of style. Everyday walking flats an essential tote in a great grey color, aviators, red lipstick and a nice watch will perfectly accessorize any spring look effortlessly.

Weekend Wear - Neutrals

Last weekend I picked up that gorgeous sequin jacket below and have been staring at it in my closet everyday, waiting for the perfect occasion to wear it to. To say I am obsessed with it would be an understatement. It was definitely a splurge for me but I felt I could love it forever and don't you think your closet should have one or two really awesome statement pieces? I do and this is one of them for me! The neutral colors in the matte gold sequins and the blush chiffon base made me think that styling this with anything but other neutrals would just take away from the jackets splendor. I originally tried it on with some destroyed denim and loved it so I know I will be pairing it with a more casual bottom but like most of my looks, I love to accessorize with some beautiful things and that double ring might just be one the coolest things ever. I need it in my life ASAP. 

Calypso St. Barth Sequin Jacket // Mara Carrizo Clutch {on sale} // J.Crew Everly Pumps {on sale} // Rose Pierre Sparkling Double Finger Ring // Tibi Crepe Top // Current Elliot Stiletto Denim 

Pretty In Pastels

Last year I purchased a dress very similar to this one in black but of course the clever designers over at Calypso changed the hemline and suddenly I cant stop staring at it thinking I need it in my life...again, perhaps this time in the pretty peachy color below and definitely with that box clutch! I am loving peach & aqua together in the summer and I feel like every piece in the outfit below could be worn over and over in so many different looks. Now I just need somewhere to wear the dress too so I can justify the purchase..perhaps our two year wedding anniversary in Newport where I wore the black one last year!

Calypso St. Barth Dress // Stella & Dot Bangles & Earrings // Sam Edelman Sandals // One By Kayu Clutch

Spring Wish List

While it still feels like the winter here in Boston, the calendar says it's officially Spring! I know I am jonesing to spend more time outside and not have to be bundled up like a toddler everyday. I also have been wanting a major refresh on the wardrobe adding in my favorites warmer weather hues of white, navy, and nudes. I however wouldn't be true to myself if my spring wish list didn't include one all black ensemble like that beachwear below. I love the loose tunic style dress that looks chic without being over the top glamour on the beach. What is on your Spring wish list???

White Diane Von Furstenburg Thailia Crocheted Dress //  Elizabeth & James Toni Nude Sandals // Oliver Peoples Sunglasses // Urban Posh Stack-able Rings // One By Primary Navy Python Clutch // Jagger Edge IPhone Case // Calypso St. Barth Tunic // AG White Denim // Antik Batik Rhinestone Sandal // J.Crew Capri Sandal // Ray Ban Over-sized Wayfarers in Tortoise // Alloy Black Tankini // Christopher Kon Allison Tote // Vix Christy Cover-up {here too}

Check out more Spring Inspiration from other fabulous bloggers over at the lovely Long Distance Loving!

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!!!

Have Yourself A Sparkly New Years Eve!!!

image

After two years of spending New Years Eve out with friends we decided this year to stay in and spend a quiet night at home just the two of us. We will be cooking ourselves a fabulous dinner and indulging on some very expensive champagne gifted to us that we have been saving for a special occasion. While we are staying in and likely not seeing anyone but each-other I have a feeling some sparkle will make it into my wardrobe. If we were going out...below is likely what I would wear...what are you wearing this New Years Eve???

clutch // pants // tank // pumps // earrings // jacket {DNS favorite - worlds best denim jacket} // brooch