Posts from — December 2009

Melisa’s post yesterday made me nostalgic about holiday traditions.  They’re such an important way to create memories and I love the process of reestablishing them year after year.   My boyfriend and I are leaving first thing this morning for San Francisco (with kitten in tow) and I can’t wait to get home.   Here are some of my favorite rituals that I’m most looking forward to.

-Getting dressed up for Christmas Eve and having a crab feed at our neighbor’s house.
-Waking up super early on Christmas and listening to the same CD we do every year (The Roches’ “We Three Kings”).
-Eating buckwheat blini with caviar and champagne while we open the presents in our stockings.
-Sitting by the fire for endless hours with my family and friends.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and I’ll be back on Monday.
xo

Finding the right hostess gift can be a challenge, but it’s a dignified way of showing gratitude.  I recently entertained a guest who was less than gracious during her (five day) stay and while a gift wasn’t necessary, it certainly would have set a different tone.  You don’t need to spend a lot to show your appreciation, but here are some of my favorite hostess gifts that make a big impact.

1. Candlestick Vase – $42
2. Silverware Dishtowel – $38
3. Overdue Notebook – $24
4. Capri Blue Candle – $25
5. Juice Glasses – $32
6. Exotic Chocolate Bars – $7.50

Shantilly Bow Tie Necklace, Topshop Blouse, Anthropologie Tank Top, Michael Kors Watch, Citizen of Humanity Avedon Skinny Jeans, Coach Boots, Gryson Bag

I’m admittedly fickle when it comes to denim.  High-waisted styles look best on me, but they need to be worn with heels, and sometimes that’s just not doable.  Skinny jeans are great for tucking into boots, but usually they’re terribly unflattering.  When Marisa, from Citizens of Humanity, offered to send me two pairs of their denim leggings (I refuse to call them jeggings), I was skeptical.  To my surprise, they’re tight enough so that they don’t bunch or encase your thighs like sausages, but comfortable enough to feel like you’ve left the house in your pajamas.

Christmas in New York is magical.   Everyone is in such great spirits and despite the frigid temperatures, the streets were bustling at all times.  Once I mastered the technique of layering (I referred back to all of your fabulous suggestions here), I couldn’t believe how cozy it was jumping in and out of boutiques as I walked around Soho.  My meetings went really well and I can’t wait to share more about my upcoming collaborations shortly.

{watching the blizzard from my room}

{candy coated windows}

{illuminated trees}

{snow beginning to fall}

{bathroom wallpaper at the hotel}