Cupcakes and Cashmere

Off the Wall

October 25th, 2010

Zara Top and Skirt, Topshop Lipstick in Rio Rio, Essie Chinchilly Polish, Vintage Bracelets and Clutch, Michael Kors Watch, Elizabeth and James Margo

Since I’ve been so focused on decorating our apartment, I haven’t been clothes shopping in what seems like months.   Racks are now filled with chic capes, heavy knits and off-the-shoulder sweaters and for once, the weather in L.A. is cooperating perfectly.  I was only supposed to go window shopping, but ended up bringing home some basics like this pleated leather skirt and top from Zara and these Elizabeth and James lace-up booties.  Still on this season’s wish list: flat boots, plaid button-downs (like these) and a fantastic camel-colored coat.

Fireplaces in the Fall

October 22nd, 2010

One of the things that immediately sold me on our apartment was the old fireplace (built in the 1930′s).  It no longer functions, but it still brings a warmth to the living room that I absolutely love.  It’s now dominated by a massive flat screen above, but I still wanted to find other ways to decorate around it.   I picked up these colorful leaves a few days ago and decided that they’d make a nice and simple garland.  I secured the leaves with miniature clothespins and strung them on a piece of dental floss, which I secured with tape.  I’m sure there are far classier ways to do this, but the whole process took mere minutes and the overall effect is quite nice.





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Clam Chowder

October 21st, 2010

I don’t find myself craving specific foods most of the year (with the exception of these and this), but there’s a certain pull towards comforting classics in the fall.   This dreary weather begs for hot meals, prepared slowly by the heat of a stove.   I grew up eating clam chowder out of sourdough bread bowls in San Francisco and the hearty soup has remained one of my favorite dishes.  I made this East Hampton version last night and it was creamy, indulgent and wonderfully filling.



Rainy Day Blues

October 20th, 2010

We haven’t seen the sun in days and the forecast does not look promising for the rest of the week.  It’s not that I’m complaining, but it’s simply hard to stay motivated about fashion when all I want to do is bundle up in things that are either equal parts bulky and soft or thin and silky.  Here are a few of my current favs that would certainly remain in constant rotation, even when the weather improves.

1. Topshop Knitted Boyfriend Cardigan $100
2. By Malene Birger Mazika Cropped Bow Cardigan $156.75
3. James Perse Knitted Merino Wool Sweater $325
4. Stella McCartney Sam Partying Silk-blend Playsuit $195
5. Eberjey Colette Chemise $75
6. Topshop Premium Applique Teddy $70
7. Helmut Lang Oversized Printed Jersey T-shirt $210
8. Kain Modal-silk T-shirt $100
9. Bassike Oversized Organic Cotton T-shirt $130
10. Dorothy Perkins Caramel Faux Fur Gilet $56
11. Michael by Michael Kors Faux Fur Vest $90.90
12. Halston Faux Fur Gilet $375