Cupcakes and Cashmere

Banana Pudding

April 20th, 2010

As I’ve mentioned time and time again, I’m a chocolate person and rarely do I even give a second thought to any sort of dessert in which it’s lacking. Lately though, I’ve noticed a shift. I picked gummy bears instead of my usual Junior Mints at the movie theater last week. I decided that caramels with sea salt would be better left undipped in a chocolate sauce. And now here I am incorporating fruit into a dessert.

I manage to stop by Magnolia’s every time I’m in New York. It’s not necessarily because they have the best cupcakes, but with the little lace window coverings and sweet smells wafting out into the street, it feels like you’re in your grandma’s kitchen. Though I had never tried the banana pudding, the reviews were always exuberantly positive and yesterday was just hot enough that I craved something cold and creamy. If you’re willing to wait several hours for the pudding to set, that was the most challenging part. Though the recipe (here) is adamant about not substituting anything for Nilla wafers, I took the liberty in substituting the mini versions I spotted at the store.

Empty City

April 19th, 2010

Planet Blue Black Label Dress, Michael Kors Watch, Vintage Aviators, Urban Outfitters Bag, Steve Madden Platforms

The lovely ladies at Planet Blue gave me this dress a couple months back and I’d be lying if I said I’ve been wearing it sparingly. I reach for it every time the weather cooperates and can’t get enough of the low-cut back, flirty length and summery pattern. Though I usually pair it with canvas Tom’s, I made the mistake of wearing my new platforms (that look identical to the Miu Mius I posted here) on an all-day shopping excursion with my mom. I always seem to forget that her energy levels exceed those of myself and all of my friends combined.

The Beauty Bus

April 16th, 2010

{Irene Moreno and her primary caregiver, sister Cate Moreno}

This morning I’m getting some much-needed highlights and lopping off several inches of my straggly hair. While I don’t exactly enjoy the countless hours spent in a salon chair, I always walk out feeling confident and polished. I’ve never questioned the importance of simple grooming treatments, which is why I support a similar cause for those who are unable to treat themselves to such luxuries.

The Beauty Bus Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for home-bound, terminally or chronically ill patients and their caregivers with in-home beauty treatments (free of charge). The mission is to reach out to these compromised and isolated individuals and bring beauty into their lives in the comfort of their homes.

Next Sunday, April 25th is the 1st Annual Beauty Drive. It’s a great way to support such an important cause and if you’re in the L.A. area, I would love to see you there. You can buy tickets here or offer a donation if you’re unable to attend.

Norwegian Wood

April 15th, 2010

Often times, when it comes to shoes, you have to make sacrifices either in the comfort or looks department. I’m not a big fan of having to make such decisions, which is why I insist that all of my heels have substantial platforms (case in point here, here and here). They’re unbelievably elongating and if you have to run to catch a cab, it’s not a problem. I love all of the wooden options this season since they’re sleek, but have a natural vibe that’s perfect for warmer months. Here are just a few of my current favorites.