Sealed With A Kiss

There has been a lot of thank you note writing going on around here and I just happened to run out of my stationary. So I hopped on over to my favorite paper store and had something made that would brighten up the recipient's winter day. 

This Kate Spade card stock can be easily customized for you. I love the red stripes, the simple design, and the cheeky kiss that seals each envelope. It is hard to tell in the photo, but my name is printed in hot pink, which as I wrote in this post, is part of my new favorite color combo. 

I even got a couple of hot pink pens in different points to write with. Just a small way I can make this winter seem a little brighter. 

xo

Erin 

SAG Awards 2012: Best and Worst

I was not as excited about the SAGs last night as I was with the Golden globes. There were some amazing looks, some that were beautiful but forgettable and some that were just plain confusing. 

Let's start with my faves...

 

Emily Blunt's dress was not a knockout, but the color made it stand out and looked beautiful on her. 

I am obsessed with this Givenchy on Zoe Saldana. She went for it and it looks effortless, yet extremely elegant. 

Amber Heard's hair is not cute, but the dress is edgy and the way that black should be done on the red carpet. 

Elizabeth Chambers, do not know who you are, but I love your simple, classic Gucci dress. 

So happy that Michelle Williams was the best dressed. I love her and this Valentino is stunning. 

Julie Bowen made up for her Globes look by wearing this draping gown that works perfectly for her. Let's call her most improved. 

Rose Byrne manages to pull off an original look in this jumpsuit. Only she could have pulled it off. 

Kyra Sedgwick looks a-mazing in this red cut out dress. She kept the accessories to a minimum, which kept it chic. 

My least favorites make me a little sad...

Wha-Waaaaa...

That's how these all make me feel. 

Amber Riley is just all around too much, from the bow to the hair, wow. 

Jenny Fischer is one of my favorites as Pam, but this dress belongs on someone twice her age, or no one.

Jenna Ushkowitz's dress has a terrible (old) pattern and the short/long hemline is tired. 

Super sad about Shailene Woodley because she was so stunning at the Globes. 

What were your best and worst of the night?

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: Neat Freak

Call it nesting or just plain craziness, I have been in full organization mode all week. While I will not bore you with the sheer amazingness that is emptier closets all around my house that makes me feel like I can breath, here are a few little projects I got done. 

Honestly, cleaning out closets is the most cleansing thing to me right now. I guess I am thinking that I will NEVER get around to doing any of these things after the babe is here, so might as well let this neat streak keep on riding along. 

At least twice a year I go through my closet and make one of three decisions on each piece of clothing I own (from a pair of socks to a designer bag). Do I keep it? Do I send it off to eDropOff? Or do I donate it? It is astonishing just how much I get rid of each year. You would think that it would help me keep my shopping in check, but clearly not. 

For anyone looking to consign designer or higher end clothes, bags, and shoes I cannot say enough great things about using eDropOff. They are located in Chicago, but will schedule a pick up anywhere in the country. Everything is done for you and in such great taste that you will see your items sell for much more than any other vendor. Don't forget you can shop their amazing selection as well (sometimes the best way to score that designer bag or pair of shoes you are coveting). 

For more great organizational tips, check out Neat's blog. This is a great company owned and operated by two chic San Franciscoans and their blog offers up some great tips and tricks. 

So my weekend wish is to keep organizing and feeling great in the process. Still working on the jewelry ideas, but most likely going to try and score a display case this weekend. I wish that all of you get that one (or ten) organizing tasks done in your spare minutes this weekend. I promise it will feel amazing. 

Happy Weekend! 

xo

Erin 

Red + Pink = Love

While Spring will be all about pastels, I think that winter needs to be punched up a bit. I love the color combination of red and pink and although it seems like more of a summer look, I think it is perfect to spice up winter. 

These lovely ladies give us some inspiration...

When color blocking these two brights, it seems that separates work best. I can bet you already have something pink or red or both hanging in your closet. Now you just need something to help you pull it together. 

1. DVF $225

 2. Patterson J. Kincaid $118

 3. Labour of Love $212

 4. J Brand $374

 5. Nina Ricci $595

 6. Alice + Olivia $250

 7. Jenni Kayne $175

8. Forever 21 $28

 9. Forever 21 $28

 10. RED Valentino $695

  11. Christian Louboutin $625

 12. DVF $285

 13. Alice + Olivia $205

 14. Modcloth $15

 15. Equipment $208

 16. Michael Kors $195

17. Tory Burch $454

With this color story, I think the nude accessories work really well. Plus, I have a soft spot for patent in the winter. 

How are you going to rock this look? 

xo

Erin 

Jewelry Organization

Jewelry storage has been an annoying part of my day recently. I have a beautiful jewelry box that holds everything, but it is hard to see what I actually have when there are so many drawers and tops to open. I also tend to put everything away neatly every three months only to find myself laying all my pieces around the box once I have worn them. It is time to figure out something that actually works for me so I can see what I have and actually wear everything. 

I LOVE these built ins...

If our closet was not already finished, I would be asking for one of these to be built in and have a mirror on the outside. 

I also love the idea of displaying your jewelry just as they would at your favorite boutique. These glass cases from Ikea are a great example of how to do that and at a great price. 

You could use trays, bowls, and jewelry hangers to add some depth so you can see everything. Maybe throw your clutches on the bottom of the large one for display? 

This wall mounted mirror from Target is great because you can actually check yourself out once you try something on. 

Our room has baseboards, so I cannot hang anything like this. 

I think the display case from Ikea is the way to go. Just need to check it out in person to see what it really looks like and how functional it might be. 

I will keep you posted...

xo

Erin 

South of the Border Chic

I am obsessed with Otomi embroidered fabrics from Mexico. Ever since I had Christmas dinner on one last year, I have wanted one of my own. The crazy price of it has kept me from taking the plunge since I do not spend that much on table linens. But after seeing this application from Pinterest, I think I could justify the price tag. 

via Pinterest 

The headboard is fantastic and such a great way to use the fabric. I also am loving it as a way to cover otherwise dull chairs. 

via Pinterest

Or you could simply use as a bedspread like below. I like how the neutral color gives some interest to this otherwise basic room without being too loud. 

via Pinterest

Simply hanging as wall art would be so fun, especially in a little nook like this. 

via Pinterest

The large sizes of the Otomi fabric starts around three hundred dollars. 

This Etsy store sells the below option and a couple others. 

Also on Etsy was this great Otomi covered ottoman. Obsessed. 

For a less pricey option, these pillows would be so fun on a bed, couch or piled on a chair. You can find them in a few colors and styles from this Etsy store. 

I love that there are options for this great fabric and I am hoping to figure out how to incorporate it into my pad. 

xo

Erin 

The Sweetest Thing

This is the sweetest way to start off a Monday I can think of. These customizable fortune cookie necklaces from Etsy seller Christina Kober are absolutely adorable and can you think of a more lovely gift to someone? 

Fortune cookie in the front and a customizable message from you to the lucky recipient in the back. 

This would be perfect for  a newly engaged friend, a new mom, someone going through something rough or anyone you want to send off with a fortune to make them smile. 

What would you want yours to say? 

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: Is Spring Here Yet?

I already have my eye on spring and winter just got here. I think it has more to do with wanting to dress in regular clothes again and dreaming about when that might be. Hopefully when the temperatures start rising and I have a waistline again, I can sport something like this look...

A chambray blazer from Acne is perfect for layering and a great alternative to my usual black. The Missoni skirt is so sweet with its scalloped edges and pastel colors. Loving the neon yellow Proenza Schouler snakeskin against the more muted tones. And these Chloe wedges are the perfect wedge with this look or with cropped pants, denim or a maxi dress. 

My weekend wish is that it will not feel like long until I can put this all together and enjoy some warm weather, looking cute, and with a new sidekick that won't spit up on it. Lots of wishful thinking there, especially the spit up part. A burp clothe would look great with that blazer. 

xo

Erin 

Maternity Chic: Hatch

Maternity is such a sad piece of the fashion world. You really do not understand it until you are out there shopping. I have shared with you that I usually buy non-Maternity clothes that I love, just in bigger sizes. I have bought a few maternity pieces and many of them are from Hatch. 

I have on the silk lounge pants right now, which help me feel like I am still getting dressed when I am staying in all day.They have just eleven pieces in a variety of colors and as you can see the cuts and designs are classic with some room to grow. Many of them can be worn post baby without a hint of their prior purpose, which I love.  

What are your favorite maternity brands? 

xo

Erin 

Winter Blues

I cannot believe that I am as saying this, but I am super into blue nail polish this winter. Not the metallic baby blues of the nineties, but deep navy blue reminiscent of sapphire. 

Yep, those are my toes. It is kind of weirdly personal to put them on the internet. 

Love the Essie color and OPI makes a similar color, Road House Blues. Which is slightly brighter blue, but equally as great. 

Have not tried it on my hands yet, but maybe next polish change. That would be a bold move for me, but it being winter and all I think it could be fun. 

What do you think? 

xo

Erin 

Best Baubles from the Globes

The best accessories of the night are usually the ones that catch my eye, even on the red carpet, where they can be hard to spot. These Golden Globes ladies had gorgeous earrings that I could not stop thinking about. 

Kate's bow tie earrings are stunning. Obsessed with them. Not to mention her make up is flawless and just natural enough. Jenna Dewan's bright drop earrings are such a fun pop of color. 


I wish I could find some similar pieces for us to shop, but nothing has popped up yet. I have my eye out though...


xo
Erin 

Golden Globes 2012: The Best and Worst

Sometimes I feel guilty after I make my picks after each awards show. Can you imagine how difficult it must be to work with a team of people to put together the perfect designer look, weigh every opinion that comes your way, diet to the extreme to fit into that dress, sit for hours getting every imperfection covered and painted, then pose just perfectly for hours so you look thin and the dress looks perfect, then wait to see what the opinion is of millions of people?! Especially when you think you look glam and really you were a hot mess? 

Ok, I don't feel that bad. Some people just need to get better stylists. 

I know not everyone agrees with my picks and I think that is the best part about making them. I tend to be super over the typical gowns, while beautiful, are just not exciting to see year after year. There were a lot of people that looked great, but I really tend to love the unexpected or the typical gown turned up. Plus, styling is everything. Hair, make up, jewels, it all has to fit the girl and once it doesn't, you've lost me. (see Angelina with matching red lipstick and bag to her dress. Not a fan)

So let's get to it! These six are my favorites of the night. 

Salma Hayek in Gucci. Love the pleats, the black and gold combo and her hair down, looking gorgeous. 

Nicole Ritchie in Julian McDonald is young and gorgeous in liquid silver beading. The bangs, smokey eye and chunky bangles pull it all together. 

This picture of Shailene Woodley in Marchesa does not do the dress justice. It was feminine and layered, with just enough sparkle. (If you can tell, I am not a huge fan of sequins, kind of kills a lot of looks for me)

I am such a sucker for a great pink. This Lanvin on Natalie Portman may be a bit old for her, but you cannot help but love the nod to Grace Kelly and the old Hollywood feel of it. 

Christian Dior also bring us back with this blush dress on Charlize Theron. I love the color (a huge trend of the night) although her pose is a bit Miss America for me. 

Nicole Kidman brings a great combination of glamour and edge with this studded Versace. It fits perfectly and I love that she wore her hair down. 

My honorable mentions are these two looks that had the beautiful open backs that were also a big trend last night. 

Heidi Klum finally took things down a few notches and wore something super simple and stunning with that gorgeous turquoise necklace. A couple of rings, straight hair and a great tan perfect the look. 

Claire did not make my top list because of her hair, the front is a bit too Rockabilly for me. The the ombre back of this J. Mendel is stunning. 

When it comes to the worst, almost all of them come from the same show. Which makes me feel like they use the same stylist and need to hire a new one. 

The Glee girls loved their updos, Lea's curly French twist is absolutely terrible. Her entire look is really retired-Olympic-skater-turned-middle-aged-soap-star. 

I really love Sarah Michelle Geller, so this really killed me. The dress is one thing, but the matching blue eye shadow took it over the edge. She used her two-year-old daughter as her stylist, while cute, does not get you on the best dressed list.

How do your picks compare to mine? I know you do not agree with all of mine, so I would love to hear yours! 

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: Here Comes Awards Season

Awards season officially kicked off with the People's Choice Awards on Wednesday. Certainly not one that I watch, but still like to check out the style. There were some really horrible dresses circa Prom '95, but also some cool, modern cut dresses that I hope to see more of this weekend at the Golden Globes. 

Brights are still all over the place on the red carpet, and these two ladies took it a step farther with the addition of some lace. Both trends we saw on the runway for Fall and Spring of this year. 

I love the mix of feminine fabrics and ruching with leather in Kristen Bell's dress. Nina Debrov killed it in this kelly green dress with delicate lace sleeves. The color is stunning and the accessories are perfect, nice and neutral. 

If you followed me during awards season last year, you know I am pretty harsh when it comes to the styling. These ladies show us that less is more when your dress is so loud. And pretty, loose hair with natural makeup keeps the young, young. 

My wish is that Sunday's Golden Globes (which REALLY kicks off awards season) has some looks that actually dazzle us a bit. Sometimes no one takes risks and the gowns get very pageant and boring. Would love to see all those beautiful pastel colors from the Spring '12 collections, as well as brights done in tasteful, modern ways. 

Can't wait. Happy Weekend! 

xo

Erin  

Bump Style, What I am Wearing

I have been getting a lot of questions about what I have been wearing throughout my pregnancy. And while there has been a lot of Lulu Lemon and leggings in my life, I have really tried to find some real clothes that work for me. After month six though, getting dressed takes forever. Even more so now that I am weeks away. Luckily, I have a few standbys that are comfortable and keep me from schlepping around. Plus, I have been able to wear things that I can get some use of after the babe is here. 

Here are a few of the casual looks that I have been wearing a lot. Please excuse my amateur photo skills. Note that many of these pieces are no longer available, so some of the links take you to similar options.  

1. Love this Rag & Bone shirt, so glad I can still button it. It will be cute belted post pregnancy. leggings: J. Crew, shoes: Jimmy Choo

2. This Joie sweater was a favorite before I was pregnant. These leggings are Pea in a Pod, over the bump. Super soft and comfortable. The boots I got knowing that I would have trouble zipping up or getting off knee high boots. I love the buckles and the shearling inside. 

3. I saw Beyonce with this Elie Tahari leather jacket on as well. It has built in panels that stretch, so it works now and will still be cute after. I live for Alexander Wang T-shirts. I have just been buying them in larges so I can wear over leggings or jeggings. Pants: Gap Maternity, shoes Jimmy Choo

4. I got this Joie blouse (on sale!) early on and have been surprised how comfortable it still is. I bought it one size up from what I normally would. These Paige maternity jeans are super comfortable and the same fit I like when not pregnant. Buy the same size you were pre-pregnancy or even smaller. They stretch. Wedges: Prada

When I have to dress up, I always wear tights and am still sporting heels. I usually just bring a pair of flats in my purse in case I need to switch. 

1. I have had this Rebecca Taylor dress forever. The hem has gotten pretty short, so opaque tights are a must. I like over the bump the kind. Shoes: Chanel

2. I love this dress, not maternity, just got it in a larger size. It is from FROCK in Studio City, my friend's new amazing store. 

3. This Parker pleated dress has gotten me through so many weddings and parties throughout my pregnancy. For winter, it is perfect with my favorite Elizabeth & James blazer, even though it no longer buttons. Shoes: Louboutin

4. I just got this Spring & Clifton sweater dress. I got it my normal size and it stretched with you, thank goodness. Super comfortable and the open shoulder keeps it cute. Shoes: Louboutin

5. Sometimes going tighter is fun, especially when going to a party where you want to make it known that you are pregnant. Nothing worse than people looking at you and playing the guessing game. This Rebecca Taylor that I have had forever barely zipped, but had some good stretch. 

6. This Style Stalker blouse is also from FROCK in LA. I love the print and it was super comfortable for a cocktail party. 

Mix in here plenty of over sized sweaters, lots of leggings, and lounging wear, and you pretty much know what I have been wearing for the past few months. I have yet to sacrifice comfort for style and I think that is what has kept me happy and out of sweat pants. 

xo

Erin 

Braid Halo

I have been trying to master the braid halo recently. I have found if you do it too tight or pulled together, it looks like you belong on the hills of Switzerland milking cows. So something that looks a bit more like this is what I am striving for....

via Pinterest 

My attempts have been lack luster. Little Olsen here clearly has curly hair going for her, which makes that messy look way easier to put together. I have pulled off a version that I am starting to like. I start with dirty hair and rat it up a bit, then braid into pig tails, just like the ones you used to sport as a three year old. 

Then pin up one side, then the next hiding the ends of the first section by covering it with the second. Tuck the ends of the second section under the first. 

I like to use hair pins and bobby pins. The bobby pins help keep it tight and the hair pins allow you to tuck in the pieces without messing up the rest of your 'do. 

back of my head

Please excuse my roots. Wow. 

Not the best tutorial, but I think with a few more tries I might just have it. This is a great way to throw hair up into something, especially when your ponytail streak has lasted almost a month. 

xo

Erin 

Crossing Over: Foundation

One of my most vivid beauty memories is when I was with my mom at a Lancome counter while she was stocking up on her favorite essentials. I, being the always-cool-and-everything-else-is-not eleven year old, was bored and could not understand why anyone would ever wear so much stuff all over their face. As I complained to my mom and the salesgirl, they both looked at me and said, "You just wait. One day you are going to be sitting here buying the same products and you will understand." I rolled my eyes and wondered off to the shoe section to look at Doc Martens. 

Almost twenty years later, and I for sure understand the purpose and allure of make up. But only until last month did I finally try my hand at what I think is the ultimate in the "what mom wears" make up category, foundation. 

For every day use, I still am a huge fan of Laura Mercier oil-free tinted moisturizer. But I have been needing a bit more coverage with the effects of pregnancy all over my face and the loss of some of my favorite retinol products (cannot use while pregnant) that usually keep my skin an even tone after a break out. 

And I have to say my first endeavor into foundation has been a great one. I found one that is water based, light as can be and does not go on like a mask, which is by far the worst look on the planet. 

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua, has just a bit more coverage than a tinted moisturizer and evens out skin tone like nothing else I have used. The built in SPF 15 is a great bonus. Because it goes on so smoothly (apply with clean fingers), your skin looks like itself only better. It does not look like your grandmother's cakey mask. 

It is a small bottle, but you only need to use a little bit to see the difference. Then once applied all over, reapply a bit more where you might need more coverage. I would visit a counter and ask for help to make sure that you match your skin color perfectly. 

So I guess I finally get it. After all these years, sometimes you need a little help to cover up what life has tossed you. As long as it looks fresh and natural, I think my eleven-year-old self would think it looks "okaaaaaay". But I would still get an eye roll. 

xo

Erin 

The Gift of Sight

Toms has done it again. This time donating a pair of glasses to help someone see for every pair of these classic shaped shades in customizable colors. 

You can shop for them online and play with the shape and colors of your choice. All under $150 and totally chic. 

You got to love a company that makes shopping completely guilt free. 

xo

Erin