Cupcakes and Cashmere

Salted Caramel Macarons

August 25th, 2010

I can’t think of another dessert that’s quite as adorable as a macaron.  There’s just something about the little cookies sandwiched together that creates a bit of magic with each bite. They’re perfect for an afternoon snack (as seen here) and though I’ve made similar cookies (here), I had never attempted to bake up a batch on my own.   I’ll preface by saying they weren’t easy and in fact, I think temperamental would be a more accurate description.  Regardless, one and a half of my three batches of my fleur de sel caramel macarons (recipe here) turned out flawlessly and I’ll be trying out new variations very soon.

Falling for Autumn: Part 2

August 24th, 2010

As a follow-up to last week’s post (here), I’ve compiled a few more of my must-haves for fall.  While some of them are a bit exorbitant (like a sweater that’s nearly $600), those are the kinds of pieces that inspire me to find more affordable options.   I’ll be in New York in just over two weeks for Fashion Week (I’ll be speaking here) and I would be content if just one night would require a crisp blazer and maybe a thin knit for an early morning walk.

1. Topshop Petite Leopard Fur Coat, $190
2. K Jacques St Tropaz Caravelle Leopard-print Sandals, $285
3. Coach New Hamptons Ocelot Crossbody, $325
4. Preen Line Coco Sweater, $569
5. Topshop Knitted Pointelle Crop Jumper, $70
6. Elizabeth and James Oversized Cotton Blazer, $395
7. Alice + Olivia Sequin Bustier Cotton Dress, $495
8. Topshop Suede Pleat Shorts, $135

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Summers by the Lake

August 23rd, 2010

Gifted Berman Headband, Coach Sunglasses, Planet Blue Arm Bangle, Souvenir Shop Bracelets, Gifted Wren Jumper, Steve Madden Sandals

I wouldn’t exactly call myself a spontaneous person.  There’s something about the long, lazy days of summer though, that beg for random day trips to places you’ve never been.  Since the temperatures were in the upper 90′s, we packed up the car and headed to Arrowhead Lake, where we were met with a cool breeze and clean air.  We ate right along the water, spent far too much time in the souvenir shop and stocked up on homemade fudge for the ride back to the city.

Simple Moments

August 20th, 2010

{With my boyfriend on top of Mount Tam}

I think it’s oddly more acceptable to complain about the trivial things that bother you than it is to take note of special little moments throughout the day.   It’s even perpetuated by a lack of naming conventions since there’s no antonym of “pet peeve” in the dictionary (and yes, I checked).   Until there’s a word that describes those simple things that make you smile, I’ve compiled a list of my top ten.

1. When my favorite song is playing on the radio as soon as I start the car.
2. When I find money in my pockets that I had forgotten about.
3. When I’m not feeling well and realize I have absolutely nowhere to be.
4. When my mom mispronounces technological devices.*
5. When drivers thank me for letting them pass or turn in front of me.
6. When I untangle a stubbornly knotted necklace.
7. When I catch my boyfriend smiling at me sweetly for no reason.
8. When I dress perfectly for temperamental weather.
9. When I climb under covers that have been freshly washed.
10. When the lights first dim at the beginning of a movie.

What are the little things that make you happy?

*She lost her iPod Shuffle a few days ago at the gym and (jokingly) considered describing it as a silver, miniature music box.