Friday, October 31, 2014

Happy Halloween


Wishing everyone out their a spook-tacular Halloween filled weekend. Even though I am not going trick or treating (which is the best part about the holiday), I will still be joining in on the fun. 6 girlfriends and I will be heading down to Soho to our friend Matt's rooftop shindig. For the past month we have been planning our costumes and I am so excited for their debut this evening. We all know my obsession with Troop Beverly Hills as seen here. That's right, we are going to be Wilderness Girls. This costume does not disappoint and will make any Girl Scout proud. We also have cookies to share in their infamous boxes.

Take a sneak peak below and then follow the fun on my Instagram account to see what the troop looks like. My friend Nicole will be rocking a Phyllis Nefler outfit like nobodies business and stand tall as our fearless Troop Leader. Are you dressing up this year? If so, leave your costume in the comments section! Happy Halloween :)

{Beverly Hills What A Thrill}

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Designer Spotlight: Sophia Webster

Over the weekend, Fiona, Jenn and I headed on over to the Brooklyn Museum to see the exhibit - Killer Heels: The Art of the High Heeled Shoe. It was a fabulous exhibit showcasing "the high- heeled shoe's rich and varied history and its enduring place in our popular imagination." It got me thinking about all of my favorite shoes and the designers who create true pieces of art for our feet. Can you name a few? I've got one in mind who fits the bill perfectly.

I've decided to create a new series, which will introduce my readers to emerging designers that I follow and their specialties in the industry. Meet Sophia Webster, world-renowned British shoe designer. She studied at the Royal College of Art and Cordwainers. Before creating her own designs, she worked as a design assistant to the infamous Nicholas Kirkwood. She is known for single soles, feminine lines and strong silhouettes. In addition, she's won a bunch of prestigious awards, and designed two awesome shoe lines with J.Crew. Check out her Holiday collection here.

I think that her shoes are truly magical and stunning pieces of art. They will cost you a few $$$, but it is totally worth the investment because your feet will be on display. Check out some of my favorite designs and then head on over to her website to see more.

Designer Spotlight: Sophia Webster

Column 1: Xavier // Nina // Riko Wedge
Column 2: Jessica // Sabrina
Column 3: Nola // Savannah
Column 4: Remmie // Bonita // Leilou

Monday, October 27, 2014

Ryn Weaver


I clearly was hiding under a rock over the summertime - I completely missed out on the insanely catchy tune by Ryn Weaver. Back in June, she quietly uploaded this single to her Soundcloud and the world has been different ever since. We don't know much about this young musicians life, other than, she's 21, used to label her music as "fairy pop" and her debut album (coming sometime in 2015) had help from Passion Pit's Michael Angelakos and Charlie XCX. According to the internet, she nailed it at CMJ and lived up to her hype. Expect big things in 2015 for Ms. Weaver. If you haven't heard the single, check it out below.


Oh and her video is pretty awesome too - especially the little mini weaver lip syncing her lyrics

Friday, October 24, 2014

Hostess Gift Guide

Hostess Gift Guide

I can't believe next week is Halloween, where did this year go? In just a few short weeks, holiday season is going to kick into overdrive. Suddenly, you will find yourself at a plethora of gatherings with family and friends to celebrate. As you prepare for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, a basic rule of etiquette - never arrive empty-handed. As your host will appreciate the impulse bottle of wine or flowers, they probably have their fare share of those things already procured. So with that in mind, go for the gift that is a little off the beaten path, more timeless and memorable. Something that can be featured on display for their next gathering of sorts. Check out the ultimate gift set for your favorite holiday hostess.

1. These faceted stoppers from Kate Spade, keep wine fresh and elegant with light-catching crystal angles.

2. You can never have too many candles lit at a party. Keep all your matches handy in this adorable Jonathan Adler porcelain elephant match stick holder.

3. Name tag coasters serve as the best remedy when forgetting new acquaintances names minutes after you just met. Guilty party of 1.

4.  Napkins should always have an accessory that screams playful and fun. These polka dot printed rings by Fish's Eddy are simply the best.

5. C. Wonder and the big apple are making way for a plethora of yummy cheesy on this fabulous platter.

6. Perforated perfection in candle holder form.

7. Spice up your table with some pizazz, especially with these napkins from H&M.

8. Add a personal touch to entertaining with these monogrammed old fashioned glasses by Mikasa. If the letter E isn't your jam, don't worry, there are 24 other letters to choose from for your hostess.

9. I'm usually the only one who prefers a cup of tea after a filling meal. Would love this London inspired tea-for-one set from Urban Outfitters in my near future.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Top 10 Items Needed In Your Closet

{image via StyleCaster}

Currently, New Yorkers and all east coasters are in the process of changing out their wardrobes for Fall temperatures and purging anything they didn't wear over the Spring and Summer time. Sometimes it is hard to part with a favorite sweater or sandal, even if you haven't worn it in years, hoping that one day the trend will resurface (it always does). However, it is always good to do a little cleaning every once and a while.

Getting my closet organized for a new season, got me thinking about the essentials that everyone should have in her wardrobe. Inspired by a post that I did two years ago, revolving around shoes, here are the top 10 items that every women should have in her closet. Invest in timeless pieces, and you'll never be at a loss for what to wear whenever the occasion calls for something special. Do you have everything on the list?

1. A White Dress Shirt
{Thomas Mason for J.Crew Boy Shirt, $148.00}

Meet your new BFF, it can be worn to work, for an interview, or even just looking polished for a nice dinner. Be prepared to splurge a little, you want your white dress shirt to hold its shape through many washings, and not be the slightest bit translucent. Therefore, consider buying on size larger than normal wear, you don't want any awkward pulling or gaps around your chest. It's always better to be safe than sorry. You want to nail that next interview, right? 

2. Favorite Pair of Jeans
{The Skinny Mid-Rise, Rag & Bone $190}

It is worth spending an ample amount of time to hunt down a pair that hugs you in all the right places, has the perfect amount of stretch for your needs, and is the wash/color of your dreams. The minute you do find the ultimate pair, you will look in the mirror and just know you have hit the jackpot. Even if they're expensive, know that they are a staple, and a classic item that is totally worth the paycheck. Just think about all those times you'll be slipping into them, when you have nothing else to wear.

3. Trench Coat

{Old Port Trench, L.L Bean $99}

Similar to that white button down, a trench coat is also versatile. Whether you are wearing it to a date, dinner, or to work, the silhouette can take the mundane task of grocery shopping and turn it into an uber chic affair. It doesn't matter the color, either black or khaki. Make sure you gravitate towards something below the knees and cut loose through the sleeves and shoulders, so you'll be able to layer pieces underneath during the Spring or Fall.


4. Little Black Dress
{Sleeveless Peplum Dress, Ali Ro $338}

Whether your last minute tinder date pulled through or you need to be a wingman for someone at a wedding this weekend, it is always good to have an LBD handy for any occasion. The right accessory, be it pearls or patent-leather flats, will make the dress appropriate for black tie or something slightly less formal.

5. Black Tights

{Camilla Opaque Tights, Theory}

Your beginning to see a trend here - black, black, black. Let's face it though, it is a staple color even when it comes to accessories. When the whether drops below 50, sometimes you aren't feeling pants and want to opt for a dress or skirt but need the perfect tight to cover your legs for warmth and chicness. My must have pair is from Theory, they make my legs look slim and can always remedy a dress challenge when the certain item of clothing is just way too short for wear. A fun trick is to double them up for a more opaque look, plus it keeps you much warmer in the winter!

6. Blazer

{Fitted Blazer, H&M $24.95}

A plain blazer (preferably black) can be thrown on with almost anything to complete a look and also add some character to your outfit. A blazer can also change your weekend wardrobe of jeans and a tee into a full on runway show. With some brilliant color and patterned options at some fabulous prices, you can't afford not to own a blazer or two.

7. Basic Tee
{Slub V-Neck Pocket Tee, Madewell $25}

A basic tee, one in black, one in white, and one in grey will ensure you will never speak the ill words of "having nothing to wear." It is such an easy and affordable piece to obtain, and so many options of how to style it. Also, don't forget to choose a neckline that compliments the shape of your face.

8. Statement Jewelry

{Goreski Glasses Bangle, Kate Spade $78}

This Kate Spade bangle has become my staple and my go-to piece that gets loads of compliments every single time I wear it. Your statement jewelry should scream your name, whether it is a necklace, a pair of killer earrings, a fabulous ring or bracelet - this piece of jewelry can spruce up any outfit 

9. Wool Coat
{Shawl-Collar Coat, A.P.C}

Wool is not the easiest fabric to work with as far as fit goes; however, once you have discovered the perfect silhouette, you will never want to take it off. The purchase can take a hit to your bank account, but after your credit clears, it will have you realizing it was worth the investment since it takes you from Fall and Winter and well into Spring and Summer. My suggestion is finding a neutral color and a classic shape, this will keep you cozy and fashionable for the longest timeframe. 

10. Evening Clutch
{Medium Leather Carry-All Pouch, American Apparel $52}

If your a lady on the town (who isn't), an evening clutch is necessary. Charity events, evenings out, or just grabbing a quick bite somewhere new, it can be inconvenient to carry a large bag (especially when these places are overcrowded). I don't mind carrying a clutch, but some hate the fussiness of holding it. When looking for an nice clutch, opt for a bag with hidden straps, it comes in handy when you are grabbing an extra drink for your girlfriend or date.

Monday, October 20, 2014

Jessie Ware


Born one month to the day after me, Jessica Loise Ware aka "Jessie Ware" is a 30 year old to be reckoned with. Her new album, Tough Love, drops tomorrow and the anticipation is killing me. For the last few months, she's been dropping incredible 1:30 snippets on Soundcloud to get every pumped up. There are five different songs - but "Say You Love Me" written with the incredible Ed Sheeran, is the clear champion right now. 

Her voice is a combination of India Arie and Colbie Caillat. Her lyrics are about love, loss, and a celebration of gloriously messy feelings. Each song is tamed by her beautiful soft touch and worth a few listens. See for yourself below.

Friday, October 17, 2014

A Hipster Halloween

Every year, the folks over at Oh Happy Day, kill it when it comes to the ultimate Kid's DIY Halloween costumes. Last year, I posted some of the most epic costumes inspired by my favorite fashion icons and this year, it is equally as good. We all know my obsession with Wes Anderson, 90's nostalgia, indie flicks, and musicians - get ready for a hipsters paradise, but in mini form.

Each costume comes with a step-by step tutorial on how to achieve hipsterdom perfection. If you are lacking in the costume department, you don't need to be pint-sized to tackle these costumes yourself. Personally, there isn't one listed below that isn't my favorite. I dare you to grab a group of friends and tackle them all. Which one speaks to you?


WES ANDERSON

AMELIE 

BOB DYLAN


MOONRISE KINGDOM

STEVE URKEL

ROYAL TENNEBAUMS

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Outstanding Outerwear

Outstanding Overcoats

Top Row: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5
Bottom Row: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

This past Saturday, I was not expecting the temperature to drop so drastically while Kacie and I were out walking Ruby. I couldn't wait to get back inside, light some candles, open a new book, and crawl under the covers for warmth. Specialty shops and department stores have been filled with outerwear since early August, but it was hard to gravitate towards anything with sleeves when the weather was so warm, until now.

But now that it is officially Fall, the next time I step out over the weekend, I'll be sure to dress more appropriately. When picking out a coat for the Fall, I always gravitate towards rich blues, greens, patterns, and/or textures. I never settle for anything ordinary, it has to be different. Besides, as a New Yorker, you can never own too many coats. Am I right?

Monday, October 13, 2014

Tove Lo


It's hard to believe that at a mere 26 years of age, Tove Nilsson, or better known as, Tove Lov, has quite the impactful resume. She has writing credits for artists like Cher Lloyd and Lea Michele, and even once played music in high school with Caroline Hjelt of Icona Pop (for whom she's also penned a few songs for). Hailing from Sweden and graduating from Stockholm's Rytmus music school, the same place where Robyn was trained, this little lady is on quite the upward climb in the music industry. She's a little bit Sky Ferreira and Lorde and a dash of Katy Perry and Miley. All three pretty impactful pop artists in their own individual way. I can't seem to stop spinning her record, check out my favorite songs below. Is Tove the new queen of pop?

Friday, October 10, 2014

#GIRLBOSS


One of the testaments of age, is looking at gifts you receive each birthday. For instance, when I turned 8, I got a plethora of Barbies ranging from Curling Iron Barbie, Miss America Barbie, and Skipper Barbie. When I turned 30, the gifts were no longer Barbies, but thoughtful and interesting books. Each one, unique in their own way - revolving around career, fashion, and humor. 

The first one I picked up, I never put down - #GIRLBOSS. Written by Sophia Amoruso founder and CEO of Nasty Gal, the book is deeply personal yet universal. It proves that being successful isn't about how popular you were in high school or where you went to college. Rather, success is about trusting your instincts and following your gut, knowing which rules to follow and which rules to break. Each chapter is filled with famous quotes about life and career, the obstacles we face, and how to tackle them. Talk about an on point birthday gift (Thanks Bibi!). I wanted to share my favorite quotes from the book and inspire you, to be the next #GIRLBOSS. I know I am after reading it.

1. Life is short. Don't be lazy - Sophia Amoruso

2. Be yourself, everyone else is already taken - Oscar Wilde

3. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it - Ronald Dahl

4. The only way to support a revolution is to make your own - Abbie Hoffman

5. To be, in a world, unborable...It is key to modern life. If you are immune to boredum, there is literally nothing you cannot accomplish - David Foster Wallace

6. I never dreamed about success. I worked for it - Estée Lauder

7. It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things - Leonardo da Vinci

8. Why fit in when you were born to stand out? - Dr. Seuss

9. Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself - George Bernard Shaw

10. Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle - Abraham Lincoln

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Tights of the Roundtable

Tights of the Roundtable

There is nothing better than a pair of rockin' tights on a brisk Fall day. Throw out the boring black, and trade it in for these 10 awesome patterns. Most New Yorkers opt for an all black wardrobe seven days a week, so why not spruce up your stems. Check out the designers who make them all right below.

1. I can't say it enough, it's all about the dots

2. Translate the so-cool sophistication of houndstooth into your tights, a fashion foundation from Express

3. Nothing says va va voom like sexy tights. Especially those from Alice and Olivia's Pretty Polly collaboration

4. Silk-Effect Cashmere-Blend Diamond Knit Tights, your welcome

5. Happy Socks make this playful accessory with sorbet shades of pink, blue and yellow

6. Fashion your character into a complete picture of creativity by wearing this pointelle patterned pair from Mod Cloth

7. You'll look smoking hot in this flamed pair from Emilio Cavallini

8. Turn heads in these comfortable sheer tights with a waist-to-toe opaque diamond pattern, reminiscent of fishnets from Wolford

9. Ahoy, with this fun skull pattern - perfect for some extra Halloween flare

10. From its stand-out statement pieces to its most delicate details, your ensemble exudes elegance with these lace bad boys from Mod Cloth

Monday, October 6, 2014

Maroon 5


I first discovered Maroon 5 while on freshman Christmas break from Syracuse watching Letterman. Completely in awe of Adam Levine's dashing good looks and magnetically drawn to their infamous tunes. It's crazy to think that over a decade and some later, Levine is just as handsome (but off the market) and their tunes are just as magnetic.

Over the weekend I must have listened to their single "Lost Stars" over a dozen times and never got tired of it. My hand kept hitting the repeat button and smiling. It's the final song on the deluxe version of their latest album with a great acoustic introduction that highlight the lyrics and the vocals of the track. If you haven't had a chance to listen yet, click below. I'll take Levine singing me to sleep with this tune any night of the week.

Lost Stars - Maroon 5

Friday, October 3, 2014

Hem and Haw

Hem Decor

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7

There is a new kid in town when it comes to stylish yet affordable home decor, and its name is not Ikea. From the creators of the website Fab.com (the one-stop shop for happy living), comes a new destination for high-end modern design that's easy for everyone to enjoy, meet Hem. The company prides themselves on dreaming up new ways to live. The team is comprised of the most exciting designers of today, creating a new generation of original furniture and interior accessories.

Each product is developed in their Helsinki workshop where craftsman obsess over materials and finishes to ensure these pieces can withstand the test of time. Lastly, Hem believes that great design shouldn't cost a fortune either securing the best factories around the world to manufacture high-quality at affordable prices.

So head on over to the website, and browse away. I've selected my favorite pieces that I've got my sights on. I'm curious to see about their "no hassle" policy inclusive of speedy delivery, easy assembly and great customer service. Everyone knows it is a daunting and super frustrating task to put together any piece of Ikea furniture, but maybe Hem has cracked the code. What do you think?

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Wardrobe Provided by: Clueless


October, you are one of my favorite months ever. Pumpkin flavors and scents are just a few things I enjoy about you. But my favorite thing about the month is Halloween. We are a mere thirty days away, so it is time to start brainstorming ideas for your costume. 

For the past couple of years I've been inspired by my favorite childhood movies (Teen Witch and Troop Beverly Hills) and created posts revolving around the wardrobes of the films. This year will be no different. Get ready for the best 90's nostalgia ever with my top three Cher Horwoitz inspired Halloween costumes.