Posts from — October 2009

I have an insatiable craving for dessert when the weather turns brisk and it’s certainly no coincidence that my last two food posts have revolved around my favorite meal (here and here).  This past weekend I convinced my mom to bake a pie with me so that she could pass along some of her secrets for consistently flaky crusts and excellent fillings.  I would never go as far to say that pumpkin is an overrated fall flavor, but there’s something unexpected about a lemon meringue pie that’s so perfect in October.

Do you have a dessert you look forward to most during the holiday season?

Wren Tunic, F21 Necklace, Vintage Aviators & Clutch, Michael Kors Watch  H&M tights, Coach Boots

When I read magazines, I often rip out pages of interest and leave them in a messy heap next to my couch.  This was one of the pages I tore out from Lucky’s October issue and a week later, Wren coincidentally sent me the very same Elephant-printed tunic I had been admiring.  I love the quirky pattern plus its front pockets and flirty length make it the ideal piece to throw on over tights with boots and run out the door.

Shopbop remains one of my favorite places to shop for their unrivaled selection of brands, on-trend pieces and easy-to-navigate site.   I crave just about every item I come across, but here are the ones that are currently topping my list for fall.

1. Sequin Blazer, Tibi: $598
2. Sarah Zipper Plaid Tunic, Torn by Ronny Kobo: $98
3. Faux Fur Vest, Young Broke & Fabulous: $319
4. Double Sleeve Top, Parker: $172
5. Confetti Sequin Mesh Slip Dress, Free People: $78
6. Shirttail Mini Dress - Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent: $372
7. One Sleeve Dress - Pencey: $418
8. Motorcycle Jacket - Tony Cohen: $825
9. Dora Poncho - Dolce Vita: $297

Also, be sure to check out my feature as part of their “Favorite Blogger” series.

I’ve always loved the idea of staying in a hotel in my home town.  It’s terribly indulgent and a fun way to see the area in which you live in a completely new light. This past weekend I stayed at Cavallo Point, a historical hotel tucked right at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, and minutes from where my parents still live.  I felt like I had permission to experience the area as a tourist and indulged in fresh crab, curled up by a fire (instead of simply turning on the heat) and watched the sun set into the Bay.

Have you ever had a “staycation” in your own town?

Alexander Wang Tee, Wren Skirt, Coach Bag, Michael Kors Watch, H&M Socks, Cynthia Vincent Wedges, Essie Mint Candy Apple

I spent the weekend in Northern California and in anticipation of the cooler weather, I stuffed my suitcase full of chunky scarves, thick coats and knee-high boots.  It turned out to be warmer than I expected and I pretty much lived in slouchy tops and skirts the entire time.   Since tights were a bit heavy but bare legs seemed too uncovered, I opted for little socks with summery sandals for the perfect transitional piece.

I always think I’m going to mourn the disappearance of fresh berries and melons at the end of the summer, but it’s never the case.  Fall produce, with its hearty vegetables and crisp fruit, is ideal for cooler weather and I’ve been indulging on a daily basis.  The colors and textures are so inviting and since the temperature has finally eased up a bit, I’m that much more excited to cook (without breaking a sweat).

I’m not big into planes and come to think of it, I despise airports even more.  What I am into though, are flying jackets.  You can wear the simplest of outfits and throw on one of these and instantly up your cool factor two-fold.  I had first professed my love for Phillip Lim’s Leather Flying Jacket here, but like most of the exorbitant items I listed, it was a bit out of my range.  Forever 21’s Fleece Trim Moto Jacket has all the great details, but without the crazy price tag (plus I picked one up yesterday and it’s even cuter in person).

What’s your take: is this a crave or save situation?