Cash or Credit - Slip Style

I remember in my early twenties when slip camisoles were the hottest style out there. I loved pairing them with a cropped ballet sweater and some denim, that outfit always made me feel sexy without revealing too much. While that look may be retired for me these days I do love the look of lingerie style items that are made for wearing anytime. Whether it be an item trim med in eyelash lace or a dress with a silky nightgown silhouette, there is something that draws me in which inspired todays cash or credit. 

cash - dress // bomber // clutch // shoes 

credit - dress // bomber // clutch // shoes 

shop the above looks & more 

Striped

When I think of striped items I generally gravitate towards navy and white. It's classic, nautical and preppy, three things I love in home style and fashion. However I got inspired by yesterday's post where Sienna Miller wore a stripe on stripe look that was all black and white.  While that particular look was a bit too bold for my personal taste it did get me thinking about black and white stripes and how they translate so well from treats for your home to items for your closet. In the past I would shy away from this combo due to fears of looking like Beetlejuice or even worse The Hamburglar but after some research I noticed there are some seriously chic black and white striped combo's out there. A little round up of some of my favorites are below. 

shop all of the above looks below!

3rd Anniversary Gift Guide

Next week my husband and I celebrate three years of marriage! It really is crazy how fast the time has gone by. Lots of happy memories have been made thus far in our relationship and I look forward to all the ones we still have to make together. So in honor of the traditional anniversary themes I put together a little his and hers gift guide all for the third year "leather" anniversary.



For Him

I love pairing gifts. So while a leather shoe carrier might be a tad boring on it's own, its a great gift when you fill it with a pair of new kicks for your guy. When you travel a ton like my man, a case for his tech accessories are key to keep them protected. I love the rustic leather cover for the iPhone and Jack Spades portfolio. A classic leather strap watch is always in style. Mont Blanc wallets in pebbled leather wear well and are super sleek.  A functional key chain to stylishly store his keys. Canvas and leather combo flip flops provide comfort and a pop of color for summer days. What guy wouldn't love a traveling flask set for his favorite spirits or gift him his favorite wine/port in these monogrammed leather carriers. My guy is a big writer, so a set of fancy pens and leather bound notebooks would definitely be utilized.

For Her

A brightly colored monogrammed tote in a classic silhouette is always in style as well is nautical stripes to have your phone well dressed. A gorgeous and soft noise free key chain. Cover up that iPad in style with this patterned case. A cheeky way to help your gal make decisions. Floral embossed beauty bag is perfectly paired with her favorite cosmetics. A leather jewelry box in a pretty hue filled with a some baubles will always be a win. This leather and lace cami is perfectly paired with this stunning fringe necklace. Anything in a little orange box is sure to make her swoon. Finally sandals that go with everything in her closet. 

Fringe Benefits

Hope you all had a fabulous long weekend! John & I were home on Shelter Island visiting my family. I was seriously surprised how lucky we were with the weather. The entire weekend consisted of scooter rides, beach days and good old fashioned family time. Total perfection. While brunching at one of our favorite seasonal restaurants, I stopped in their petite boutique to check out some of their fashionable finds. One trend I was loving was the brightly colored fringe necklaces they had on display. A trend I have been noticing quite a bit from jewelry to clothing to bags.

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

Keeping It Real

 I thought I would start a new series today named "Keeping It Real" where I will share honest reviews of items, retailers and services that I promote on the blog. First up was my experience yesterday at the Rent The Runway showroom at Henri Bendel. We all know RTR for their designer dresses and accessories available for rent at a small fee. I personally hadn't used the service before but since I was in NY I thought I would test drive their new "store" concept where you can try on the dresses before you commit to renting them. I had arranged the appointment online and corresponded via email with a "style consultant" on the two dresses I was specifically interested in seeing in person. I sent the link to the item, the dress name and size I would need, once I had confirmed all the details with this representative I made my appointment. When I arrived in Henri Bendel I had some difficulty finding the RTR space within the actual store. Once located I checked in and was told to enter the shop where I waited 25 minutes for my appointment. During that time I snapped some of the photos you see in below. I had numerous people ask me if I was being helped and I would simply respond "waiting for someone to help" of which no one showed up till almost 30 minutes later. When my consultant finally graced me with her presence she asked me what I was looking for. I was confused because I would have thought my profile would have been updated to show that I was there for the gowns previously requested. She had no idea what I was speaking of so I then had to go through the web site with her to show which dresses I was interested in as they weren't on the floor {a sign I already noticed that things weren't going as I had hoped}. She then disappeared for a bit leaving me in a fitting room waiting to only come back and say they don't have any notes for me about those dresses {luckily I had all the email correspondences proving otherwise} and they had nothing for me to try on. I was walked out and told I wouldn't be charged for the appointment which was ridiculous because I was never told there was any fee for the appointment. It was a total disappointing experience and most importantly a waste of time for the customer. Their lack of professionalism and internal communication definitiely has made me rethink promoting this brand in the future as I have positively done in the past.

Freshly Squeezed

A few weekends ago I attended a Tuscan themed bridal brunch that was beautifully decorated with citrus decor, favors, Italian treats and cocktails. I was completely smitten with the hosts fruity design. It was bright, cheerful and perfectly on trend. Since then everywhere I turn I see zesty styles {pun intended} of lemons and oranges in fashions, beauty, paper, entertaining and home decor. Below is a little roundup of some of my favorites.



citrus tree's // fedora // pillow // iPhone case // recipe cards // lemon purse // lip balm // drink dispenser // measuring spoons //  head scarf // soap stones // dress // flats // towelettes // candle 

The White Bag

Spring has finally sprung here in Boston and I couldn't be happier about it. This past Saturday while my husband was out and about with his buddies I decided to take myself for a stroll around the city and do some window shopping (and maybe even a little actual shopping). One item in particular I kept noticing and was really loving was the white bag. Who knew that this simple little accessory could be so versatile and go with every single thing in your closet. I broke down my three favorite style bags and then options in different price points, the Burberry tote has me weak in the knees. 


clutches - one // two // three
crossbody - one // two // three
totes - one // two // three

Feeling Blue

Ok, so I'm not literally feeling "blue", but feeling rather obsessed with the bright color.  After I wore some new affordable gym clothes in the bold oceanic color, I was paid several compliments by my husband and some gym friends {mostly because they were shocked to see me in something other then black}. So of course when I had to look up other ways to incorporate this color into my life. I was pleasantly surprised to see my research results had this pop of color available in a plethora of stylish ways from your closet to home decor.

one // two // three // four // five // six // seven // eight // nine {also love this one} // ten // eleven // twelve // thirteen // fourteen 

Holiday Gift Guide - For The Ladies

Putting together a list for the ladies wasn't as easy as I had originally thought. There was such an incredible selection of goodies out there this year that I really had trouble narrowing it down to my favorites. I could of have easily added another ten products but tried to keep it to a sensible amount of accessories, clothing & decor. Happy Gift Giving! 


one - Leopard is a staple in every woman's wardrobe. I personally love the grey colors in this fabulous infinity scarf.

two - A goes with everything black clutch will be in heavy rotation year round.

three - Sparkle doesn't have to cost a fortune. These dazzlers are gorgeous and only $50!

four - Floral arranging is a breeze with this vase that has compartments for each stem.

five - A sensational statement necklace for getting dolled up. 

six - Slippers in a variety of patterns for keeping her piggies warm.

seven - Every gal needs a stylish go to everyday tote, this one can also be personalized!

eight - Keep your lady cozy & warm in this gorgeous plaid blanket.

nine - The chic sunglasses that look good on every female.

ten - A crystal crusted compact is perfection for last minute touch ups.

eleven - Protect her iPhone with a fun wallet/case combo.

twelve - Classic pajamas in a traditional gingham print are great for lounging and sleeping.

thirteen - Velvet flats are comfy and cute - double win.

fourteen - A bright colored leather case is perfect combo gift alongside a new mini iPad for a super luxurious gift.

fifteen - A classic cape for simple yet stylish dressing.

sixteen - Benefit Cosmetics are a favorite brand of most females & their gift sets are perfect for trying new products.

seventeen - Keeping warm never looked so good with these leather & knit gloves.

eighteen - Chic art doesn't have to cost a fortune. This lovely piece is a steal at $50!

nineteen - A pretty place to store all her pretty baubles.

*** All Gift Guides Can Be Found Here***

Weekend Wear - Holiday Parties

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the official start to holiday parties will soon consume all your weekends. I personally love the idea of going with a simple styles that you can incorporate into your wardrobe without it feeling too seasonal. Black and white is always a go too for me and this look below is definitely one I am loving to get you through the many soiree's throughout December & beyond.

Tibi Dress // Zara Coat // J.Crew Necklace // Henri Bendell Debutante Clutch // Rihanna for River Island Sandals

Holiday Gift Guide - Stocking Stuffers

Growing up our holiday tradition was to always open gifts from Santa on Christmas Eve and then the  stockings on Christmas morning. This worked well for my family as we loved to sleep in and the whole waking up at the crack of dawn wasn't really our jam. So I thought I would do a little round up of stocking stuffer gift ideas all under $25!

one - A striped brush set is a great gift for the gal who likes her brushes on display. 

two & three - A sleek journal and pencil set to jot down all your brilliant ideas.

four - A pretty tray is perfect for placing your keys & or jewelry at the end of a long day. 

five - Prevent tangles of your favorite necklaces with this gilded compartment jewelry box.

six - Adorn your locks with some sparkly & personalized bobby pins. 

seven - An initial key chain is an easy breezy personalized gift. 

eight - A sparkly bauble is never a fail for your gal. 

nine - A stylish flask with a cheeky remark is a fun gift for your favorite over 21 guy. 

ten - A make your own guitar pick for the musician in your life. 

eleven - Mittens aren't for just toddlers, I love the chic faux fur pom pom on these babies. 

twelve - Softer then cashmere scarf available in a slew of on trend patterns. 

thirteen - Even guy's need tech accessories. This camo print case is a great masculine print. 

fourteen - Stud details are a major trend this year, I personally love them on an iPhone cover. 

fifteen - Fun write on Polaroid style frames for your favorite photos. 

sixteen - Pinch Provisions emergency kit is a perfect gift for the accident prone {like moi}. 

seventeen - A simple clutch that will go with everything is a steal for $20!

eighteen - Stay warm & stylish in this chic faux fur snood!

Happy Gift Giving!

***all gift guides can be found here***

Holiday Gift Guide - For The Pets

Growing up with three dogs and three kids meant that something was always happening in our house. I honestly loved it. I have the best memories of having a house full of pets that were truly members of our family, so why not spoil them on Christmas like you would any other relative. I know in our house these wet noses will be getting lots of treats from santa despite them not always being so good.

one & two - durable chew toys that wont be shredded to smithereens in adorable shapes of fire hydrants and nautical anchors.

three & four - fill up a stylish canister with your pups favorite treats, just make sure they are made in the USA!

five - I am not a huge cat fancier but I imagine that they would like a little private sleeping nook to be left alone in.

six - Claws can ruin your beautiful furniture so why not give them a scratching pad of their own to run their paws over.

seven - Pretty sure the only time dogs hate their owner is when we dress them up but how can you resist an adorable santa scarf & hat for a photo opp this holiday season.

eight - Quite possibly the most hilarious dog chew toy I have ever laid on, most definitely will provide endless entertainment and laughs.

nine - The creme de la creme of pet sleep bedding is not only comfy for your K9 but also super pretty to look at with lots of patterns available to match your homes decor.

ten - A pretty yet simple basket to store all your pets toys.

eleven - endless kitty entertainment with this snarky lazer.

twelve - a purrrrfect tote filled with mice for your kitty.

thirteen - A chic water dish for the posh pup.

***All my gift guides from last year & this year {plus some other gift giving ideas} can be found all in one place here***

Happy Gift Giving!

Put A Bow On It

I am having a major moment with fashions adorned with a bow {i.e. here & here}. There is something so feminine and cheery about a bow, maybe it reminds me of a present or perhaps just being a younger version of myself when everything I wore had to have a bow on it. Regardless of the reason I am totally smitten with everything that is tied up in a pretty bow. 

This Red Valentino Coat is not only on trend with it's blush color but the bow collar gives a nod to styles of the past and a über girly look. 

My recent purchase of a tie neck blouse has gotten some serious wear in my closet. This Michael by Michael Kors version is equally fabulous and dotes an even larger bow.

It's a huge understatement to say I love me a good statement necklace. Combine one with a bow and you have me weak in the knees, especially at this affordable price point!

Tory Burch makes my all time favorite flats for comfort and style. I adore these beauties with their velvet texture, sparkly bows and rich plum hue {25% off till the end of today}. 

This skirt reminds me of the 50's poodle skirt styles but with a modern hem length and bow detail. I would likely twirl all day in this with some cute bow flats.

If you are like me I almost always need to wear a belt {thanks to my big tush} and this little bow belt by Ted Baker might just be the cutest ever made in its shiny patent finish and soft color {more colors available}. It would be perfectly paired over a little black dress.

I am not quite ready for the temps to drop to the point of needing hats and gloves but this adorable Kate Spade knit hat and Target gloves sure do help keeping warm looking good.  

J.Crew kills it when it comes to shoes. These pumps are so feminine and sexy at the same time. I love the classic look from the front and bow perfectly placed on the back of the heal. 

Striped anything is pretty in my style book & this head scarf is no exception. 

Every gal needs a little compact for last minute touch ups and this one not only has a shiny bow on it, it also rocks the classic  Henri Bendel stripe. 

A dainty bow ring is preppy perfection. 

Kate Spade is the queen of putting a bow on it. I love the subtle design of the bow on her famous "beau" bag. Its a total win-win that there is some leopard in there too.

Lovely Little Loafers

I have a bit of delay on today's sip & snack as I was out last night celebrating some of my husbands recent accomplishments. While I will post that tasty recipe a bit later, I wanted to discuss one of my favorite topics...shoes. I have to admit I almost always prefer heels. I always feel more feminine and better about my overall look  when I add a little height to my legs. However, I live in the city, a very old part of Boston filled with lots of brick sidewalks that are cracked and broken which means they are far from high heel friendly and let's face it, nothing looks worse then a woman that can't walk in her own shoes properly. So while they aren't my first choice, a chic flat is a must in my day to day lifestyle. One trend I am totally loving is the look of the classic smoking loafer that has been updated with some modern prints and embellishments. It keeps what I always considered a preppy style a lot less stuffy and a bit more interesting and fresh. So I have to ask ...will you be swapping out your ballet flats for this new look? 

Loeffler Randall Blaise Moccasin // Gap Metallic Loafers {available in silver} // Henri Bendel Sole Ambition Loafers {comes in the cutest sleeper bag too}

Joie Dylan Leopard Loafer // Ann Taylor Candace Smoking Loafers // Charles Phillip Lana Tassel Loafers // Nasty Gal Digi Spike Loafer // Zara Tassel Moccasin // Loeffler Randall Blaise Studded & Suede Loafers

Geek Chic

Accessorizing your personal style is no longer limited to the typical jewelry, clutches and so on. With all the innovations in the e-world and the portability of these devices styling your favorite tech accessory has never looked so good or been so easy thanks to many fashionable designers branching out into tech design. I chose a few of my favorites to cover up your smart phone, ipad, lap top and all other accoutrement to work, blog, study or peruse the web in style.

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

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

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

Finally check out this amazing product that holds your phone & charges it...GENIUS!

clutch

The First Five Years

Anniversaries are a wonderful thing, a benchmark of time that you get to celebrate with your partner in crime but before I was married these annual days would come and go without much thought. That all changed after we said I do. I think the themed years definitely amped up the fun for me on getting the creative juices going on my gift giving.  On our first wedding anniversary we returned to Newport, RI where we tied the knot.  That year I got crafty with the paper theme and I gave my husband a giant piñata in the shape of his iphone filled with gift cards to his favorite stores, favorite candy as well as some vintage papers of inventors he admired growing up. Most recently we celebrated our second wedding anniversary in Nantucket, MA where I gave him a weekend bag that matched his current luggage set. Who knows what will come next year when leather is our theme, one thing I do guarantee is that he will have it easier then me. With anniversaries so recently on my mind, I assembled a little gift guide with the themes I plan on following to provide some inspiration for other couples who are on their way through the first five years of marriage. Happy Gifting!

 one - art is a difficult thing to find for men, this is exactly why I love these handmade gyotaku pieces where an actual fish is painted and rubbed onto paper creating unique pieces for your guy. 
two - a classic weekender bag for all your getaways will have your guy traveling in style 
three - a leather backgammon case or poker set is perfect for your guys easy entertaining
 four - a whimsical printed pocket square and a coordinating blazer will satisfy all silk fashions
five - create an outdoor area for your guy with a fire pit for cozy nights together 

one - stylish stationary is the obvious choice but a set of beautifully covered classics will last a lifetime
two - a cotton dress doesn't have to be boring, especially one in a ladylike silhouette and classic color
three - leather may be the easiest year for men, you can't go wrong with a clutch & coordinating wallet
 four - a timeless silk scarf from the french designer hermes, need I say more?
five - a great piece of furniture that she has had her eye on will do the trick for wood, this vintage louis vuitton trunk would surely make any gal weak in the knees