Cupcakes and Cashmere

Tuscany

April 30th, 2012

{Eleanor (one of the property’s two Shar Peis) at the entrance}

Over the past two weeks we visited several cities in Italy and while each had its perks, our stay at the Borgo Santo Pietro in Tuscany was the highlight. When I asked for honeymoon recommendations here, this was the one suggestion that I simply couldn’t get out of my head. It was meant to be the relaxing (and certainly the most indulgent) part of our trip and when we left, I actually felt homesick for the place. We read a ton (I finished two books in four days), slept in, ate great food, met wonderful people, and deprogrammed. Here’s a glimpse at how we spent our time at the villa.


{Morning walks through the gardens}

{Late afternoon chess + champagne + antipasto}

{It was too chilly to swim in the pool, but it made for the ideal lunch spot}

{My breakfast of choice – the eggs were so delicious}

{Heated stone floors + a deep tub}

{Tree-lined road near the town of Palazzetto}

{Resting after our walk to San Galgano}

{Quick day trip: Duomo di Siena}

Five Things

April 27th, 2012

{A pretty carousel in the middle of Florence}

The second week of our honeymoon has been even better than our first. Truffles are in season and we’ve managed to incorporate them into at least one dish per day (along with pizza, pasta, and gelato, naturally). We were in Tuscany for three days and we’ve been exploring Florence for the past four before we head back on Monday. I can’t wait to get home to see our family, friends, and cats and am also excited to share the first of two updates to my site next week. Here’s a glimpse at just a few of the things that are currently making me happy.

{Long walks surrounded by wild flowers}

{A day trip to Siena}

{Behind-the-scenes glimpse at a puppet show in the middle of the piazza}

{Strawberry/Peach/Ice cream-flavored marshmallows}

Wardrobe Refreshers

April 26th, 2012

One of the best and worst parts of traveling is that you can’t take all of your things with you. It’s tough to know exactly what you’ll want to wear, what the weather will dictate (I must have packed eight summer dresses that I’ve ignored in favor of my rain slicker), and the items that will be the most adaptable. It’s a challenge that I secretly love – and one that reinforces the idea that you only need a few key pieces each season to completely punch up your wardrobe. Here are the three items that are currently at the top of my list.


 1. Silk striped dress.  A classic pattern in a versatile silhouette that’s as well suited for a graduation as it is for a date night. During the day, I’d wear it with a straw hat, loose waves, an armful of bracelets, and neutral sandals. At night, I’d pull back my hair in a low knot, wear a tuxedo jacket, strappy heels, and a sequined clutch.


2. Crisscross sandals. These are plain enough so that you can throw them on with nearly anything, but with enough detailing (I love the toffee-colored leather paired with the pop of pink) to make them special. During the day I’d wear them with jean shorts, a plain t-shirt, and a blazer. At night, they’d be the ideal complement to a ’60s-inspired shift dress with a sleek blowout and a nude lip.

3. Horseshoe necklace. In warmer months, I gravitate towards simple, delicate jewelry that looks good on its own, or layered with other pieces. During the day, I’d wear this with a few longer gold chains, a bright tunic, skinny jeans, and wooden wedges. At night, I’d wear it with a strapless nude-colored dress, a high messy bun, and simple platforms.

Peachy Keen

April 25th, 2012

Free People Sunglasses, Zara Blazer, Club Monaco Top, J.Brand Jeans, Pencey Booties, Zara Clutch

I haven’t worn a suit in years and this outfit is about as close as I’d like to get. White-on-white always feels fresh, and when paired with a crisp blazer in a similar tone, the vibe feels office appropriate – at least one in a creative setting. I bought these white pants in anticipation for our honeymoon – it was one of the few things missing from my wardrobe and felt like a necessity for running around Italy.