Posts from — April 2008

Hence my blog’s title, Cupcakes and Cashmere, cupcakes play a pretty integral part in my life. I would certainly consider myself a connoisseur, seeing as how I’m willing to travel to separate bakeries around the city, each for specific flavors.  La Provence for their coconut, Toast for their red velvet, Joan’s on Third for their chocolate peanut-butter; the list goes on. Since my obsession has taken a toll on my waist-line, I’ve found other ways to enjoy the miniature treats like this Pink Cupcake card available on Etsy. With little pink beads as sprinkles and a colorful envelope, it might not taste as good as a cupcake, but it’s certainly just as appealing.

Typically, the combination of flowers and ruffles end up looking like an explosion of frilly proportions that is simply disastrous. Coincidentally, both looks are everywhere, so I’ve wondered whether pairing the two is now acceptable. This Oh Oklahoma Floral Print Dress is ridiculously feminine, yet the cooler colors keep it from going over-the-top. My favorite detail is the single ruffle that runs from the neckline to the hem, adding a unique touch to the dress, as well as a slimming affect. Though I think the lacy curtain backdrop is overkill for the photo, I think paired with the right edgy heels and a black leather jacket, this dress would be phenomenal on the city streets.

I’m pretty sure my boyfriend is embarrassed by the fact that I still shop at Forever 21. Though I, too, used to be ashamed to walk around the mall with the neon yellow bag in tow, I now frequent the store with pride. It really is an acquired skill to be able to sort through the racks of mesh and sequins to discover the true gems that exist. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with their accessories line, which is beyond extensive, ranging from satin headbands to intricate necklaces. Below are just a few of my most recent online purchases, whose arrival I eagerly await.

In an effort to start eating better and saving money, I’ve been packing my lunches for work. Sadly, after I proudly announced to my boss that I cooked this morning, he let me know that a peanut butter sandwich isn’t exactly a culinary masterpiece. Though I recognize that my cooking is a bit sub-par, I do enjoy spending time in the kitchen and think that if I had this Bib Carmen apron, I would be more inclined to hone my skills. It’s not too cutesy like so many of the aprons available that are awash in floral patterns and lace trim that simply mock my lack of domesticity. Instead, the black with white trim is feminine and will conceal all of the kitchen mistakes I’ll surely be spilling down my front.

April showers bring May flowers, thus creating the perfect setting for a springtime picnic. Though the weather in L.A. has been sweltering as of late, it’s supposed to cool down just in time for the weekend. Urban Outfitters’ Medallion Picnic Tapestry with Tote is such a fun twist on the typical wicker basket in a colorful medley of yellows and golds. This light-weight, textured tapestry can be folded at the foot of the bed, thrown over a couch or even used to cover a wall if outdoor dining isn’t your thing. The most genius concept is the matching tote, that I could easily see myself carrying in the morning at the farmer’s market, only to later use to transport my blanket to the perfect picnic location.

Lulu’s Dandelion Scarf has just the right amount of detailing to make it the perfect accessory for spring. With a myriad of browns and grays, it complements pretty much any color, whether it be a white gauzy dress or a bright fuscia top. With light fringe along the edges, and the sheer, quail-like pattern, I could just as easily imagine wrapping it up in my hair as I could wearing it loosely around my neck. Perhaps the most surprising part, however, is that this scarf costs $13.  For this great price, I can buy several additional pieces for my summer wardrobe, all of which will work nicely with this amazingly chic scarf.