Cupcakes and Cashmere

Words to Live By

February 27th, 2013

manifesto4

I’m addicted to Pinterest. As someone who loves to collect visual inspiration, but struggles with organization, it fits my needs perfectly. The one thing that doesn’t always resonate with me is the influx of written inspiration. The words never seem applicable to my life, so with that in mind, I decided to create a manifesto. It’s simple and to the point, but filled with the things I hold to be most important. I like that it speaks to where I am currently, but that it’s open to change and interpretation the older I get. But for now, it’s surprisingly rewarding to see a list that reminds me of everything that matters most.

I’d love to know what you would include in your manifesto?

DIY: Embellished Sunglasses

February 27th, 2013

yellow floral sunglasses

I’ve been into embellished sunglasses since this past July, but the only pairs that I coveted were way too expensive for such a trendy accessory. Instead of making the splurge or settling for cheap ones I didn’t love, I decided to make my own pair using sunglasses from Urban Outfitters and Forever 21. I chose three classic shapes (cat-eye, aviators, and oversized round glasses) and used a glue gun to adhere a variety of decorative pieces. Each pair cost less than $20 to make and they’ll be a fun departure from all of my other shades for spring.

P.S. If you’re looking for a way to store your sunglasses, here’s a simple solution that you can make yourself.

before and after sunglasses
sunglass tools
flowers
crystals
pearls
cat eye + aviators
embellished sunglasses

Advertisement

Miniature Baked Donuts

February 26th, 2013

baked miniature donuts

Recently I’ve really come around to donuts. For someone as sugar crazed as myself, it was kind of my claim to fame that I could actually abstain from a box of fresh donuts. My husband, however is the opposite – if there’s a donut around, he’s eating it. Whether or not it’s a flavor he likes, if it’s been lying out for too long, or if he’s already uncomfortably full, it doesn’t matter to him. Somehow I’ve adopted some of his enthusiasm, so when he suggested we get donuts the other morning, I decided to make them at home, with a slight adjustment. We baked them (much like Fonuts, which I covered here) and made them miniature to minimize their damage (recipe here). They lack the grease and heaviness of regular doughnuts, but for a slightly healthier weekend morning alternative, they’re an ideal complement to coffee.

donut1

donut2

donuts4

donuts5

Watercolor Florals

February 25th, 2013

vest1

Celine Sunglasses, Madewell Dress, J.Crew Denim Vest, DIY Painted Vintage Brooch (instructions here) Elizabeth and James Blazer c/o, Gap Belt, Miu Miu Pumps, Alexandra DeClaris Clutch

About a week ago, I bought my first denim vest (which is now on sale) since my last one I had in 3rd grade that I paired with a Hypercolor shirt. For such a simple fabric, it adds a nice edge that a light chambray or full jean jacket just don’t offer. I’ve been throwing it over t-shirts and lace dresses, but have also found it’s just as versatile tucked under a blazer on gusty days.

vest5

vest3

vest4