August 5th, 2011
{A slate cheeseboard I labeled with chalk}
This week was positively packed, but somehow I was so busy that I barely had time to notice. In between meetings, events, and a few not-so-fun personal obligations, I hosted a dinner party for a few friends. Luckily I’ve finally perfected the art of easy entertaining: a simple cheese plate, a one-dish meal (I made this), and a partially homemade dessert (I bought a pint of vanilla bean ice cream to pair with these cookies). It was great, but I’m really I looking forward to a much-needed restful weekend.
{New obsession: vintage julep cups filled with white flowers}
{Incredible fried chicken sandwich from brunch at Eveleigh}
{Neutral basics – T by Alexander Wang Top, Zara Blazer, Joie Shorts}
{Jewel tone colors for an upcoming mani/pedi}
August 4th, 2011
One of my favorite pastimes is rearranging furniture (apparently many of you feel the same, according to Twitter). It requires little effort, but yields such rewarding results (and makes me feel almost Herculean; moving around sofas, large tables, and chairs). My office transformation has been well documented (here, here, and here), but I thought I’d show some photographs that show how seemingly simple changes (like new art, fresh flowers, and different colors) are what keep a space feeling fresh and current.
{Light colored basics are a welcomed change from these pieces}
{All blush tones and open toed sandals}
{My overhead lamp lends a masculine touch to my otherwise girly space}
{I love the gold detailing on this new vintage console + a new place for my far-too-uncomfortable-to-sit-on-all-day lucite desk chair}
{White gum balls keep the office from feeling too serious}
{Vintage art found in Santa Barbara leans against the wall}
August 3rd, 2011
In order to distract myself from the current heatwave in L.A., I’ve taken to online shopping for inspiration. We won’t start to feel the first glimpses of fall until early October, but I’ll be anxiously awaiting its arrival until then. This upcoming season I’m all about polished prep – with crisp basics, deep emerald greens, luxurious fabrics, and tailored classics. Here are just a few of my favorite items on my wish list.
1. Carven Tie Front Blouse $470
2. Isabel Marant Sweat Shirt Dress $375
3. Essie Nail Polish in Going Incognito $8
4. Juicy Couture Leather Gemlock iPad Case $128
5. Forever 21 Sunglasses $5.80
6. Topshop Knitted Slouchy Seamed Top $72
7. Topshop Faux Leather Rib Panel Pencil Skirt $75
8. Alice + Olivia Zulu Leather Shorts $280.50
9. Steve Madden Pembrook $159.95
10. All Saints Jess Beanie $50
11. LORAC It Girl Lipstick $22
12. Forever 21 Woven Thread Bracelet $4.80
August 2nd, 2011
Making a good drink can be really intimidating. I’ve dedicated an entire section to demystifying the art of making a classic drink in my book (that comes out next August). Since that’s a long time to wait, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to share one of my favorite recipes – my dad’s Orange-Lime Margaritas. They rely on the fresh flavors of bright citrus, good alcohol and not much else.
Orange-Lime Margaritas
2 limes
1/2 orange
2 1/2 oz. tequila
1 oz triple sec
1/4 oz. agave syrup
1/4 oz. Grand Marnier
In a cocktail shaker with ice, juice 2 limes and 1/2 orange. Add tequila, triple sec, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Strain over glass with new ice cubes and float Grand Marnier on top.
*Another great summer cocktail recipe here.
