Cupcakes and Cashmere

Blue Bayou

March 7th, 2011

Gifted Elizabeth and James Blouse, H&M Skirt, Saint Claude Earrings, Philosophy di Alberta Feretti Sandals, Vintage Bag

For the better part of my stay in New Orleans, I lived in jeans and rain boots, so I was thrilled to get dressed up for a Bingo-themed brunch yesterday afternoon. I received this top (seen here) right before I left, and though it’s not typical Mardi Gras attire, it felt perfect for my first trip to the South. I had a great time and while I thoroughly enjoyed myself, there will be no fried foods, deceptively strong drinks or King Cakes in my immediate future. If you’d like to see more pictures, I’ve uploaded a new album on Facebook here.

Five Things

March 4th, 2011



{Decorations in the French Quarter}

Sometimes I feel like the only way I keep track of time is through my “Five Things” posts that remind me it’s Friday. This week has flown by particularly fast since we’ve been in New Orleans for Mardi Gras, enjoying everything this city has to offer. We’ve eaten incredible food, explored until our feet were blistered, and met so many kind, generous people. On tap this weekend: a Bloody Mary making contest, performances by Better Than Ezra, parade-watching, tracking down some authentic Po’ boys, and finding fun souvenirs to bring home.

{Beignets with Cafe Au Lait at Cafe Du Monde}

{The beautifully eerie Lafayette No. 1 Cemetery}

{Pralines from a local sweet shop}

{Trees littered with colorful beads along St. Charles Ave.}

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Unsuited

March 3rd, 2011

Zara Blazer, H&M Top, Forever 21 Necklace, Queen’s Wardrobe Shorts, Alexander McQueen Pumps

I’ve never owned a suit. I searched for one briefly in college, but was so discouraged by the boxy, unflattering options that I stopped looking right then and there. I never needed one in any of my previous corporate jobs, but I occasionally put together my own interpretation, just for fun. In lieu of pleated trousers and button-downs, I prefer comfortable basics with tailored cuts. I’m all about neutrals for spring (as seen here) and I like how this peach-colored blazer complements my tan shorts, but doesn’t match perfectly. With a few playful pieces, like a relaxed striped top, a statement necklace and yellow heels, it’s an easy way to feel pulled together without appearing too corporate.



Breakfast Pizza

March 2nd, 2011



Last week I shared a picture of a breakfast pizza (here) that I ordered at a little cafe by the beach. It was unconventionally wonderful, with the allure of a classic dish made appropriate for the morning. I hadn’t stopped thinking about it and realized how easy it would be to serve at one of the many brunches we host. I found this recipe and made it even simpler with store-bought dough and pre-grated cheeses. I love a good twist on a classic and this one pretty much tops my list.