ENJOY TODAY + LINKS...

The weekend is here! So excited as always. What's on your agenda?? This is my one busy month of the year at work, so I gotta work a bit in between my workout, errands, a dinner, finishing this book, and watching the last few days of the Olympics. The Olympics have been a complete obsession of mine as of late. I don't have a thing for track and field, beach volleyball, water rafting, or long-distance biking, but I've watched all of those events plus more. I just think it's incredible to see people's hard work pay off and dreams come true in real time. Fascinating. Anyway, I hope you have a great weekend and enjoy the links!

Good Things
The print above that bed is only $5... Such a cute shop.
My first purchase for fall... $25 well spent.
Pretty for work or a wedding I think...
A new favorite fashion blog. Simple style done so right...

Good Spaces 
A city hall wedding done so beautifully. That dress though...
She's moving again!! This is going to be good...
Ina Garten has a new apartment that's obviously lovely...
Dream closet. Just a dream...
I could sleep here every night. Could you?
And I could cook here every day...

Good To Know
I suffer from anxiety and I swear this helps...
I'm moving to Sweden. They have 6-hr workdays...
A prescription for a full day of happiness...
This girl is just amazing... Fun presentation of the article, too.

Good Food & Drinks
How pretty is this???
Now this should be interesting...
The fastest way to find your new favorite food blog...
21 things to do with those overripe bananas on your counter...
The first thing I would eat if I could suddenly have dairy. It HAS to be good... 

Image via Luminous Prints / Etsy

A FEW FAVES...

Peeps... I opened up Photoshop over the weekend and used it for the first time in FOREVER!! If that's not a sign that things are looking up energy-wise for me, then I don't know what is... So excited about that! Anyway, I thought I would do a little round-up of a few things that wanted to show & tell you about...

THE BACKPACK // The older I get, the more I value ease and convenience - especially when I'm traveling and running errands. Backpacks make things really easy and keeps the hands free - and I'm so glad they are sort of coming back! This classic structured leather backpack by Camelia Roma is gorgeous, made in Italy, and super reasonable in price compared to other backpacks I've seen. It's definitely been wishlisted. Everything made by Camelia Roma is gorgeous by the way...

A MOUNTAINSIDE REMODEL // The bathroom in a home remodel by Studio McGee is gorgeous!! The walls have thick 10-inch shiplap, which makes a huge statement in what looks like a small space. Love the idea... The whole remodel is definitely a must-see...

SLIP SILK PILLOWCASE // This pillowcase is definitely one of the best purchases I've made lately. I have long hair that can look atrocious in the morning without the help of wearing a silk scarf. The problem with wearing a silk scarf is that it was hard to keep it on all night. After some not-so-good experiences with cheap faux silk pillowcases, I splurged on this pillowcase and it was so worth it!! It feels amazing, stays in place, and is very cooling. I can wear my hair in a simple bun or ponytail at night and it isn't the least bit dry or frizzy in the mornings. The pillowcase also keeps the skin on my face hydrated all night. Love it...

EVERYTHING WE KEEP // I love a good suspense/relationship novel, and this book is so good!!! A sous chef, Aimee, is all set to marry her childhood sweetheart - only to find out that he vanishes days before the wedding during a fishing trip. He is pronounced dead and the funeral is held on the day of their wedding. Aimee is devastated, but goes on with her life despite the unsettling feeling she has that he isn't really gone. That might not be an original plot, but the way it's written has me hooked!! I'm halfway through this book and I am dying to find out what happened!!

WHIM 5-FREE NAIL POLISH // Did you know that nail polish can be super toxic?? It's definitely always smelled toxic to me, but it wasn't until my autoimmune diagnosis that I began to really read up on it. Most polishes are laced with hormone-disrupting ingredients like toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate. I can barely pronounce all that, so I know they aren't good! I always have a pedicure, so I've been on a hunt for a good polish that is free of those ingredients. I've landed on Whim, a polish free of five of the most dangerous polish ingredients. It goes on really smooth, dries fast, and is long-lasting. I'm loving the base coat, this color and this color for fall...

BR HEELED SANDALS // So if you've gotten this far in the post, then clearly you know that I'm ready for fall! I am crazy in love with suede sandals these days (I STILL wear these almost daily!), and I'm loving this pair for fall. They would be great worn with skinny or flared jeans and a lightweight sweater or with a sheath dress. Super cute...

THE BEST BRA... EVER.

You guys... I know it's not normal for me to post a photo of some chick in her bra and underwear here on the blog, but I promise I'm doing this for a good reason. And I'm not doing it because someone paid me to do it. I'm doing this because right now I am wearing the bra you see there and I have no desire to take it off... That's a HUGE deal for me and I wanted to tell you about it.

I hate bras. Hate I said. Sometimes at the end of the day, I take it off first before I even take off my shoes. But I wasn't blessed enough to go out without wearing one, so I'm always looking for the perfect, most comfortable bra. If I'm lucky enough, it might even look remotely attractive. Well I've found one that is all three of those things!! It's the Natori 'Feathers' bra. I recently read about it on Victoria's blog, and ordered it in what I thought was the 1000th ditch effort at finding the "perfect" bra. I got it a few days ago, tried it on, and was amazed. It was light, attractive (right??), smooth, fit perfectly everywhere in my regular size, the lace isn't itchy, and it didn't create any back rolls  (you know - the back rolls that only appear when you have a bra on - ugh). I then wore it around the house (at the end of the day) because I thought that wearing it an hour or two would make me want to rip it off - like how I feel with all of the other bras I own. But I didn't think to take it off. So I'm writing to tell you about it because I know I'm not the only one who hates bras and gets super excited when a good bra comes along.

And guess what?

It's on sale (through August 7th). For a really decent price. Right here. In lots of different colors.

Go grab yourself a few.

And oh... I ordered some Natori underwear, too. I don't feel the same way about underwear that I do bras... ha. But they are now the most comfortable underwear I own. And they are on sale, too!

INSPIRED BY...

{Simply framed artwork that is flanked by that leather camp stool. I love that stool..} 

{How lovely all those basic pieces look together... }

{The tile in that bathroom along with the simple geometric vase... Quite lovely. }

{That simple walk-in closet with the simple and minimal wardrobe... }

I'm just inspired by simplicity today... :)

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INSPIRED BY...

{That bright, yet rustic kitchen. I could live there... }

{Her oversized coat and that bag- of course, and how the look is finished off with the ponytail. Love it. }

{The straight lines of the beveled subway tile mixed with the honeycomb floor and the warm wood on the sinks. It's all just the perfect mix...}

{That all-black outfit. It's chic, classic, and very comfortable-looking all in one... }

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ONE STOP SHOP: HOLIDAY PARTY ATTIRE...

{One can't go wrong with this red, simple, classic, structured fit & flare. Love it. It comes in navy, too... }

I only have a few holiday gatherings penciled in this year - most of which are going to be casual. However, that hasn't stopped me from admiring this holiday attire, which all happens to be all in one place - Anthropologie. Is it me or have they really stepped up their holiday attire this year?? I feel like every time I log into Pinterest, I see a few of their dresses that others have pinned. I recently took a look around their holiday attire page to see what was going on, and I loved what I saw! Here are a few of my faves that I think would be perfect for the holidays or for any fun party during the year for that matter...

{Sheath dresses are my second favorite to fit & flares. They can be sexy without being too much. I adore this one...} 

{I'd wear this gold sequined dress to a lovely New Year's Eve dinner in a heartbeat...} 

{ I have yet to find a jumper that fits me properly, but I am DYING to try this one on! Perfection.}

{I think this tank with a good pair of dressy black pants- or cropped pants - a jacket, and a great pair of heels would be fabulous...}

LOVING: THE BIG BLACK BAG...

Monday's post was very summery and today's post is very fall-like. Sorry for the big jump, but I am SO ready for fall!! I love fall for so many reasons- one of them being the re-emergence of the big black bag. I tend to see more of these types of photos online around this time of year and it so excites me! I love a big black tote/bag and fall is when I love them even more. They look more sophisticated to me against a chunky sweater or jeans with a jacket then with a strappy summery dress. But that's just my opinion...

These are a few of my favorite looks along with some black bags that have caught my eye. I dream of the day my budget will allow for the ever-so-classic Celine or Sophie Hulme tote, but in reality I am eyeing a few budget-friendly, yet fashionable and quality bags for this fall. I'm especially loving this bag (in black) and this bag... We'll see which one wins... :)

SHOP THE LOOK

Images 1/2/3/ 4: Photo by

INSPIRED BY...

That bathroom that is fresh looking, but very rustic at the same time... I love the sliding doors, too.

Her coat. Her sunnies. Her style. Just her. Sorry if you've seen that pic of her 100 times already...

That feminine, organized wall of tools. Makes me want to be crafty...

Those pear, bleu cheese and honey tartines. Pears, bleu cheese, fresh honey, and a crusty baguette are now on my weekend grocery list...

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STARTING WITH SOME PRETTY...

Well a new year is here and I'm quite thrilled! How was your first day of the year?? I spent the last few days and most of yesterday cleaning out cabinets, scrubbing floors, organizing my pantry, food prop cabinet and closet, cleaning bathrooms and just simplifying things around my house. I did that all while Beyoncé or trash TV was on in the background, which was helpful. :) That might have been a boring and lame way to bring in the new year, but at least I can say that I am going into the year in a clean and organized fashion. That feels really good. 

So I'm starting things off in a simple manner here on the blog with just some simple and sophisticated inspiration that caught my eye during over the holidays. I'll be back tomorrow with my Word of 2014. I don't do resolutions. I just do a word if one comes to mind. And this year it's a good one friends, so check back if you can!

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MY CHRISTMAS DAY ATTIRE...

Cashmere Sweater | Eyeglasses | Earrings | Necklace | Flats | Coated Leggings | Tote | Bangle | Blanket

If this is the most boring Christmas Day outfit you've ever seen, let me explain. Christmas Day at our house is extremely laid back. No table settings (even though I love them), no assigned seating, and no dress code. Wearing Christmas colors isn't required. We are just chill. I'm often running around assisting my mom with our late lunch - which is really our early dinner. So I dress similar to what you see above. I like to keep it classy, yet comfortable. And by comfortable I mean that I want to feel the way I felt in the pajamas I wore before having to change. Clothing that allow my stomach and waist to stretch is important. A roomy tote for any gift deliveries after lunch is good. And a cozy blanket for that necessary Christmas Day nap is a must. :)

P.S. I have those eyeglasses and I L-O-V-E them... They have a matte finish, so they are very soft and light and don't stick to my nose like plastic frames do. Love that.

INSPIRED BY...

The chair, the throw, the rug, the books... the whole look.

This quote. I couldn't agree with Albert more...

Her sweater... and her blog.

That Daniel Wellington watch and the simple accessories around it...

So I'm just taking things slow here on the blog this week. Next week things will get back to normal. In the meantime, it's Thanksgiving week (my second favorite week of the year after Christmas ) and I'm taking some time to relax, cook, sleep and hang out with my family. I posted a quick recipe for you on Monday (let me know if you make it!) and today I have a few things that are pleasing my eyes at the moment... I hope your week is going well!

I'M WEARING: CLASSIC BLACK

Well hi there! I hope you had a good week last week and a great weekend! So I'm back this week with my first outfit post in like 100 years! :) It obviously hasn't been that long, but it has been quite a while. This outfit is like a representation of about half of my closet. About half of my closet is made up of black clothes. I've always liked black because it's sassy, classic and easy to mix and match. I keep black from being boring by purchasing clothing that has a little edge to it. The sheer panel on the arms of that Zara top I'm wearing = edge. I paired the top with two different black skirts, a fluted skirt and a leather skirt. I've had that leather skirt for 8 years, so classic is the word! I love the details of the both of the skirts and how each of them are made. I often pair all-black outfits with pattered or colored shoes. They just rev up the whole look. Of course you can never go wrong with leopard... When it comes to jewelry, I always keep it simple. That's just how I roll. I meant to pair these outfits with this necklace (which I LOVE), but forgot to bring it with me to the shoot! :) 

Speaking of the shoot, a HUGE thank you goes to my friend and photographer, Paula Coldiron. Not only is she an amazing photographer, but she made me feel so comfortable - which is fabulous because these shoots often make me feel so nervous and awkward! We did a few more shoots (more colorful ones!), so more "I'm Wearing" posts to come! 

Top: Zara | Fluted Skirt: J.Crew | Leather Skirt: Banana Republic (old) | Heels: NineWest/InStyle (similar here and here) | Clutch: Zara | Sunglasses: Dolce & Gabanna | Bangles: J.Crew (similar) and Madewell | Stacked Rings: Banana Republic (similar) | Watch: Michael Kors | Nails: Essie (one coat of Material Girl, one coat of Shearling Darling) | Lips: Nars "Fire Down Below"

JEANS CASUAL...

 

It's been a while since I have done a post completely related to fashion and style. That by far doesn't mean that I no longer have a passion for it. My credit card usage is proof... These are just a few looks that I have been drawn to as of late. While nothing about this look is groundbreaking, I'm still drawn to them because I work in the corporate world. That means there has to be a special event for us to have a "jeans casual" day- which means it doesn't happen often. So I get SO excited when I get to pull a relaxed, yet classy look like this off on the weekends. In addition to being comfortable, this is a look that can be achieved with the basics like tees, cardigans, jeans, blazers and a classic black bag. Super simple. Here are a few of my picks!

SHOP THE LOOKS...

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IN MY CLOSET #2

Jeans: J.Crew | Necklace: J.Crew | Cashmere Top: Isaac Mizrahi for Target | White Button Down Top: Banana Republic | Sandals: Zara | Watch: Michael Kors | Nails: Essie High Maintenance & Tiny Wine-ey | Lips: NARS "Fire Down Below"

Well, it's almost been a year since my last "In My Closet" post and I'm finally back with another one! If you recall, I was super nervous the last time and well, that didn't change this time. I was still nervous, but I have to say that it was a little more fun this time. This outfit is one of my favorite classic looks that highlights a few of my favorite things at the moment. I LOVE those distressed jeans. They are super comfortable and can be dressed up or dressed down. I've applied that same concept to the necklace, which currently has a front row spot on my necklace organizer. I have worn it with regular cotton tees and dressy tops and it looks perfect both ways. 

And I may or may not plan the majority of my outfits around that lipstick. With the exception of lipstick, I never wear makeup. But this time, my friend Camillya at Nordstrom glammed me up (which was SO fun) and introduced me to that lipstick. Not only do I love the color, but I love the quality! It stays on all day and it doesn't dry my lips out at all! I'm a lip balm freak, so any lipstick that doesn't require layers of lip balm is a winner in my book!