Monday, December 30, 2013

Sky Ferreira


To round out 2013, I thought I'd share one of my favorite tunes from fellow California native, singer song-writer, Sky Ferreira. The 20 year old indie-pop siren had originally made headlines during the Myspace era and also because she knew Michael Jackson growing up; however, these days she is hitting the scene with her drug jargon, arrests and her topless album artwork. One thing is for sure, this girl knows how to put out an awesome record with influences similar to Madonna, Prince and Gwen Stefani. Both Icona Pop and Ferreira will hit the road this February 2014 with Miley Cyrus for her Bangerz tour. I know I will be checking her out on the stage in 2014. Check out her song Boys below to get convinced.

Boys - Sky Ferreria

Friday, December 27, 2013

Resolve to be Radiant


Get ready 2014, Pantone just announced its color of the year, and it is Radiant Orchard. According to the Color-Wheel-Pro the color purple symbolizes the following:

  • Power
  • Nobility
  • Luxury
  • Ambition
  • Wisdom
  • Independence
  • Creativity

Calling all female powerhouses in the workforce, this color is for you. I can't wait to see what the fashion industry has in store for this color this Spring. I'm thinking some amazing power suits. In the meantime, check out some awesome silhouettes in this beautiful radiant colorway. From home accents to comfy sneakers - there will definitely be fun accents for everyone!

Monday, December 23, 2013

Best Music of 2013



My girlfriend Liz is the best at creating playlists on Spotify. She is known to send out monthly mixtapes to her friends and family. As an end of the year surprise for Music Mondays - she put together the ultimate mixtape with her favorite songs from 2013. There were a lot of amazing albums that came out this year so it's hard for me to nail down all of my favorites. Take a listen for yourself below. What was your favorite album this year?  I can't wait to see what 2014 has in store!

Oh. Hey There, 2013

Friday, December 20, 2013

Homemade Candied Cinnamon-Sugar Nuts


My girlfriend Laura makes this recipe for every social gathering or as a delicious treat to nosh on around the house. Since I have been embracing cooking this year, I thought I would try a stab at it and make these delicious homemade candied cinnamon-sugar nuts as a holiday gift for colleagues at work. Once they were all done baking, I wrapped them up in simple/cute holiday packaging from Paper Source, utilizing these utensils Treat BagsRibbon, and Holiday Cards.

Overall, this was super easy to make and my entire apartment smelt like the holidays all night (added bonus). Take a look at the recipe below and try for yourself, you won't be disappointed in the delicious results.



Ingredients:
  • 5 cups whole pecans, unsalted
  • 1 cup whole almonds, unsalted
  • 2 egg whites

  • 2 Tablespoons water
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (I used 1 1/2 cups)

  • 2 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300F degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray; or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
Mix pecans and almonds in a large bowl. Set aside.
Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites and water on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until well combined.
Pour sugar mixture over nuts and stir to coat completely. Spread nuts over the baking sheets and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15. Allow to cool completely and enjoy. Store nuts at room temperature for a few weeks, covered.
*Recipe can easily be halved to keep around the house or doubled to feed a large crowd.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

All That Glitters


There is something about the holidays that always gets me into the glittery spirit. I always love putting on some form of sequins whenever attending holiday soirees. New Years is just around the corner and what better way to ring in 2014 than in style with something sparkly. Whether you make a small statement with your clutch or earrings or you go all out in a dazzling frock, you will sure to be a crowd pleaser in any of these fantastic embellished dresses. Which one is your favorite?

This post has been submitted as an entry to IFB Project #126: Celebration Style 

Monday, December 16, 2013

Beyonce


Beyonce broke the internet on Friday when she surprised fans with a 5th studio self titled album debuted on iTunes. There are 14 brand new tracks along with 17 videos making it the ultimate Christmas gift just before the holidays. By sidestepping a promotional hoopla, this album, could be her most personal yet.

The singer has truly out done herself and there is no stopping her anytime soon. Madoona who? Check out my two favorite tracks (plus videos). What do you think of her new album?




Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Baby It's Cold Outside


Temperatures have significantly dropped in the city and it is officially winter. Where did the Fall go? It seems like just yesterday we were soaking up the rays on the 4th of July and now it seems like those days will take forever to get here again. The weather these past few days are a clear indication that the winter is here to stay. Check out my favorite winter accessories to keep you bundled up in style during these next few months. I've got my eye on the leopard print infinity scarf! What are you eyeing?

Monday, December 9, 2013

Little May


Feast your ears and eyes upon these three Sydney babes from the band Little May and their beautiful orchestrated sound. Their delicate guitar strings and majestic voices are the perfect combination to pull at your heartstrings just a little bit. I've got a strong feeling that once these ladies cross the Pacific to the States they are going places. They've got two awesome songs twirling the internet that are perfectly polished and delightful. Check them out below. You hooked?

Friday, December 6, 2013

Deck The Cards


I am a sucker for snail mail, especially this time of year around the holidays. Spread the holiday cheer to all your loved ones by sending them a sweet holiday greeting the old pony express way. Check out some of my favorite seasonal greeting cards brought to you by the best sources - Sugar Paper LA, Kate Spade, Shop Terrain, and Paper Source. Which one fits your holiday flare?

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

His and Her Gift Guide

Need a last minute gift idea for that special someone in your life? Check out my His and Her Holiday Gift Guides below for a fun assortment of gifts at every price point. I can think of a few things I am eyeing from this list, can you?




This post has been submitted as an entry to IFB Project #125: Holiday Gift Guides 

Monday, December 2, 2013

Yellow Ostrich


Being home for the holidays was fantastic, the weather was beautiful every day and I was able to see family and friends and most importantly relax from the hustle and bustle of city life. I watched entirely way too much Parenthood, my recent television obsession. 

On the season finale of season 3, I rediscovered an awesome song from the band Yellow Ostrich off of their album The Mistress. Their local folks, from Brooklyn. Once a bedroom project from lead singer Alex Schaaf has transformed into a full fledged indie rock band. Their bonus track Bread is my absolute favorite and I wanted to share it all with you. What do you think?