Weekend Wish: End Pillow Obsession

My wish this weekend is to end my obsessive and nondecisive search for throw pillows for my living room couch. I have narrowed down my favorites and am looking for some help. 

My living room is a few shades of beige (beige couch, cream walls, off-white carpet, bo-ring), with two long couches facing each other. It would be great if the pillows could inspire the rest of the decorating that needs to be done, like rugs, art, and accessories. 

Here are my final choices. 

1. from Milk & Cookies on Etsy

2, 3. from Turquoise Tumbleweed on Etsy

4, 5, 6. from Fabricadabra

7. Mediterranean Pillow in Orange from Z Gallerie

8. Gingham Pillow from CB2

9. Cross Hatch Linen Pillow in Teal from Well Appointed House

Kind of all over the place, right? That is why I need some help! Which one is your pick? 

xo

Erin 

Green Machine

Primer has long been something that I always bought, but was never completely sold on. If you have never used it, it is supposed to help smooth the surface of your skin before you apply make up, fill in any little lines, and help give your makeup staying power. I also have oily skin, so adding another product on top of moisturizer and sunscreen is tough.

I think I may have found my match, but I needed some convincing given this liquid's appearance. I mean it is green, and not a pretty shade, an ugly one.

What Smashbox has figured out is that a primer should also help us even out skin tone problems, like redness and your dark spots. The green adjust version of Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer helps some of my redness disappear and after a light fluff of powder, it is non-existent. They also make other colors like apricot for dull skin, purple to brighten, and a light version for all over smoothness.

The consistency is super silky, not oily, and makes putting on anything after it a breeze. Any brush just glides right over your face. You can find it at Ulta, another dangerous place for me to wander. But, if I find products like this I will go back again and again.

xo
Erin

You're Invited

So somehow my invitation to the royal wedding was lost in the mail. I am not sure how this happened, but I am sure it will arrive any minute now. So in the case it shows up, I wanted to be prepared with something fab to wear. I did a little research to see what one wears to such an event and found that long is almost mandatory, you must have on a curtsy appropriate dress for when you address the Queen, and you better bring it. The crowd will be posh, sophisticated, and classy. Slits up the thigh, cleavage, or back bearing dresses would be frowned upon, so leave the BeBe at home. The looks I put together are all very different, but I would sport any of them come this weekend.

Dresses from Net-A-Porter.com, Shoes from Barneys.com and ElyseWalker.com, Clutches from Barneys.com and NiemanMarcus.com

All of the dresses have some drape and an ease to them. The last thing you want to be doing in the presence of royalty is look like you are trying too hard. And because this is a wedding I wanted to make sure they all had a bit of romance to them, but a touch of edge in the accessories to chic it up a bit.

I included one of Kate's favorite designers, Issa, as I know that wearing it will make us fast friends. We will strike up a conversation about our love for comfortable, figure friendly fashion, and before I know it she will be inviting me to Anglesey for a weekend in the country with her and Wills.

Well, at least that is how I imagine it. Until that happens, I will be setting my alarm to watch with the rest of the world.

Which of these looks would you be wearing?

Cheerio!
xo
Erin

Identify Yourself

I came to realize in the last few weeks that I need business cards. I get asked about the blogs quite often and wish I had a little card to pass along so people could remember the site names. I also am a new real estate broker and have had getting cards on my to-do list since I got my license. I have felt like a complete idiot when asked for one and pretending I just don't have them on me. Really, I have just been looking for the perfect site to order them from. 

Today I finally found one. Moo.com is amazing. Not only do they have a fantastic selection of modern and art-filled designs to choose from, but they also carry other products besides just business cards. 

The key cards above are "mini-cards" that are the perfect size to pass on a note or some quick info. I ordered some fun striped ones for this site in pretty, girly colors. The lemon, girl on a bicycle, and Smile prints are actually postcards. How fun to receive the Aquafresh Art from your dentist to remind you of an appointment? Or maybe a change of address postcard on the bicycle print? 

Greeting cards, stickers and just about anything else you need can be found on the site. It is easy to build your own cards, upload your own photos, and start designing. Bonus is that the prices are completely reasonable. 

In a week I can finally identify myself. Hopefully, people still want my digits.

xo
Erin

Weekend Wishes

I have just one wish this weekend, that  everyone has a great weekend and Easter.

I saw this pretty arrangement of tulips and thought it was the perfect centerpiece for any Easter table. Flower arranging is something that I am hoping to improve on this year and this lovely picture came with instructions and a video courtesy of Martha.

I was also thinking that instead of pink ribbon, I have some scraps of some really nice wrapping paper that I might just have a use for now. Don't you hate just throwing that away?

I am loving the glasses and monochromatic look of the rest of the table. It really helps the flowers stand out.

I hope these make it to your table in some form or it gives you the nudge to buy some flowers for yourself. You deserve it.

Happy Weekend!

xo
Erin

Cinco de Mayo

1. Hand made Papelitos Picados from Etsy

2. BCBGeneration basket weave clutch

3. Top Shop Mexicana Shift Dress

4. Tory Burch Tunic

5. Kenny Guadalajara shorts

6. Sur La Table Molcajete for your favorite guacamole recipe

7. Colorful and fun Steve Madden sandals

8. Pacifico Beer, don't forget the limes

9. Penny Black Peso cuff links for your man

10. My Pork Tacos Recipe

I have a really special place in my heart for Cinco de Mayo because I went to college in Tucson, Arizona. What I learned there was that this holiday is a great celebration of family, friends, food, and culture. With an emphasis on fun, some of my favorite memories of college were Cinco de Mayo parties with lots of cold Pacificos, brightly colored outfits, and sing-a-longs with the mariachi band. With this Mexican holiday just two weeks away, I wanted to pull some inspiration of what to wear and how to celebrate. Whether you plan on attending a lively celebration or trying the pork taco recipe at home, I promise that this is always a holiday that anyone can get in the spirit of. 

xo

Erin 

Scrub-A-Dub-Dub

Part of the reason that I wanted to include beauty insight on this blog is because I am a bit of a product junkie. I am an easy sell and every sales girl in Chicago knows it. I even know I am falling for it while it is happening, and yet I can't resist the new color, the new cream, or the new gadget. What can I say, I am in search for anything that lives up to it's reputation (most don't) and am always willing to try the new thing.

I had read a lot about the Clarisonic before going to even look at them, since I knew it was an investment and that I would probably want one immediately after talking to the salesgirl with the perfect skin. Product reviews were all positive. From super clean skin to reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, I was sold and out the door.

If you are unfamiliar with what the Clarisonic actually does, think of it as a big toothbrush for your face (It was developed by the same people that brought us the Sonicare electric toothbrush). It gently scrubs your skin while you wash your face and can be used daily or as much as you want. They come in two sizes the large original size and the smaller Mia. I went with the smaller version, the Mia, as it is slightly less expensive and is great for travel.

Washing your face with the Clarisonic feels like a mini-facial every day. It gets rid of generally everything and anything left on your face from the day. My favorite claim to fame about this gadget is that it helps your other products work better, 30% better. Because you are exfoliating every day, more of your other products soak in to your skin. Which, if you are like me you really, really want them all to work to keep the wrinkles away and stop breaking out like a shiny faced pre-teen.

The Clarisonic comes with a brush head for sensitive skin, so if you don't have sensitive skin I would suggest getting a normal brush head. They sell them alone and in packs. If you buy the large sized Clarisonic, there is a body attachment that sounds amazing, but I can't vouch for it.

Now I feel like the salesgirl, but I promise I will not share anything here that I am not obsessed with.

xo
Erin

Just Breathe

Michigan Avenue Residence designed by Kara Mann Design

I had seen this layout before in a local magazine and could not keep my eyes off of the images. I also could not get over that someone actually lives and breathes in these rooms every day. Talk about a bit of jealousy, I worship it all. It has such an ease and calm to it, but has no shortage of style. The splash of bright color in the living room, the low trays filled with bright green moss, and the butter colored drapes in the eat-in kitchen all bring extra pop to the rooms. Kara Mann is an extremely talented designer in Chicago that can bring you a whole lot of inspiration. Her obvious talent is not something you can just replicate, but try to learn from. What I am taking away from her designs is that a great light fixture can really make a room, never be afraid of a pop of bright color, going with a similar color palate around your entire house does not have to be boring, and if I ever win the lottery I will be hiring Kara. For bigger images and more spaces, check out her site and drool over the other interiors. Also, check out some of her showroom pieces that are not only chic, but also fun (hello, Union Jack chair). 

xo

Erin   

Weekend Wishes

1. To wake up early enough to hit up the elusive Donut Vault on Franklin & Kinzie in Chicago. This tiny, impeccably decorated little shop cranks out 300-350 donuts every morning and stops selling once they are sold out. The line has been around the block, but I am determined. 

2. To seek out some bright colored, nature inspired long necklaces like this one from Ali NY. 

3. Find some pretty branches with little flowers on them, like Cherry Blossom or Mimosa, to brighten up the pad. 

4. To have a really successful and fun event on Saturday for Make A Wish. To join me click here.

5. To read the new Vogue with the stunning Reese on the cover (worshiping the black & white dress) from cover to cover on Sunday. 

Enjoy your weekend! 

xo

Erin  

Stark White

I love the idea of a modern, clean-lined, white dress with neutral accessories. It reminds a little of what Ralph Lauren would design with Jil Sander. White dresses can be done in a very romantic way, which is what you usually see. Ruffles, lace, eye-let, and fuller skirts. I do like that look, but something about a modern cut dress and accessories that invoke an easy, natural, almost Americana feeling just seems chicer. The neutral accessories also get more attention next to the white dress. 

1. Strapless Dress by BCBG Maxazria

2. Ribbed Tank Dress by Alexander Wang

3. Tank Dress from Zara

4. Open Sleeve Jacquard Dress by Halston Heritage

5. Hitching Post Belt from Anthropologie

6. Rouched Shoes from Barney's Co-Op

7.  Knotted Mesh Necklace from J. Crew

xo
Erin

Lip Smacker

Lip color can literally change your whole day. Have you ever been having a rough day and swiping on glistening pink gloss just made it infinitely better? I know I do.

 Yesterday while picking up a refill of my favorite blush, Nars Orgasm (if you don't own it, you should, as it has long been called the best and most universally flattering blush in history), and I could not resist browsing the Velvet Matte Lip Pencils. I have bought them before and always loved the fool-proof application, the long wear, and the vibrant colors. This picture is of me wearing it in Pop Life, a great red with the perfect amount of coral in it. It has a creamy consistency, but the matte feeling of lipstick that I adore. I am currently wearing it in sweat pants and a t-shirt while working from home and my strut to pick up the mail from the driveway was super glam.

The fun salesgirl from the counter also introduced me to their new chunky pencil, Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil. Basically it is the same concept, except these pencils have a shiny finish and a bit of sparkle. they are great on their own or layering and it stays on so much better than a sticky gloss. I bought Happy Days, as the color worked well with my Matte Pencils and on it's own for a hint of pink shine.

Loving my new lip finds. What shade is on yours?

What's Your Uniform?

I remember reading a personal style article in Vogue a few years back from an adorable NYC girl-about-town (can't remember who exactly) and she talked about her uniform each day. She was not a doctor or WNBA player, but one of those sickingly cute city girls you envy. Her uniform was a cashmere sweater, jeans, and boots, except in summer when she wore Capri sandals and switched the sweater to a white button down shirt. Photos of her looked polished and chic, not boring as I would expect from wearing the same outfit every day. She played with her accessories a bit and her hair was perfectly blown out or pulled back into a messy chignon. After reading this I really loved the idea of a uniform and although I never planned it, I kind of started to wear one myself. Albeit mine is a bit frumpier and way less pulled together, I am hoping I channel that chic NYC girl sometimes.  

My uniform most days consists of leggings, a long top or sweater, flats or boots, and some sort of jewelry to make me feel good. I know I am not the only one who wears this uniform, as most people I see out and about are wearing a slightly different outfit than me on most days. I have to say, I love having a uniform as it makes getting dressed in the morning easy, I always feel comfortable, and it is easy to switch up. Now and again it is jeans instead of leggings or a dress or skirt in the warmer months, but right now I am all about the comfort of leggings. We all wear this outfit because it is not tight and ridiculously easy to put together. So what's your uniform? If yours is like mine, I have been searching for some more tops and came across I few that you might like (some are on sale!).   

From Top, Left to Right: 

1. Cotton Tunic from Zara

2. Sparkle & Fade Dolman Sleeve Sweater at Urban

3. Striped Cardigan by Joie 

4. Long Blouse with Sleeve Loops at Zara

5. Mao Collar Blouse from Zara

6. Button Up Dress by Splendid

7. Ecote Macarame Trim Sweatshirt at Urban

8. Woven Knit Shirt from Splendid (currently wearing this while I write)

9. Dolman Sleeve Striped Tee by Stem

10. Sleeveless Draped Tee by Trouve

11. Pullover with Button Detail from T by Alexander Wang

12. Tie Neck Tunic from the Gap

xo

Erin 

Genius Mirror Update

This idea is so fantastic, that I just have to share. If you live in a house where mirrors with no frame, shape, or design hang, you will love this post. Many places are built with mirrors in the bathrooms that are impossible to get off, and even if you do take it down you are left with a serious project to repair the area. Patching, painting, and finding something that fits the space could take lots of money and lots of time. These types of mirrors in my house drive me bananas. They are not attractive and the only thing I have ever thought of doing is hanging some sort of frame around them, but even that sounds like more of a project that I can handle given the shape and size requirements. And let's get serious, I am not that crafty or have the patience for certain handy work. In comes an idea from a great design blog, Little Green Notebook. This genius idea requires just some picture hanging tape from 3M and inexpensive frameless mirrors like this one from Ikea. I love how it gives a stock mirror some whimsy and interest. More traditional shapes would also work, and might be a little more man friendly. This oval mirror would look great. I love when I can find a clever idea that is actually doable in my world. That world being a place that does not require a call to a handy man, any real skill of any kind, or power tools. A hammer and a measuring tape is as far as I can get and even that can get a little scary.

xo
Erin

Weekend Wishes

Today has to be the coldest, dampest day in a long time. It is one of those days you just want to lie in bed, pile the blankets all over you, and watch reruns on Bravo. This is not the way to start a weekend. Hopefully, these will happen to make it better.

1. The ability to put away the umbrella  at least until Monday.

2. To make massive amounts of truffle parmesan popcorn.

3. Take a nap in my new cute romper from Target.

4. That a nice, big, cold, vodka martini
is how I top off my day.

5. To try a new recipe from Tyler Florence's first book (my chef-celeb crush).

xo
Erin

Stocking the Guest Room

When guests come to visit it is always hard to know exactly what makes someone feel at ease and comfortable. No matter what, you want them to have fun, enjoy their space, and get a good night's rest. I have people stay quite often and know that a few bottles of water on the nightstand and a couple of good books on the shelf go a long way. I also love the idea of mints on pillow at night, just like at a hotel. And although I do not go to the lengths of actually doing that, I keep a big jar of peppermint lifesavers on the side table. I found a few great things to make your guest's next experience a thoughtful one inspired by my guest room. In addition, I would stock the bathroom with essentials, keep a bucket or vase filled with bottles of water, add some sort of flowers to the room, and make sure there are plenty of hangers in the closet. Nice ones.

1. A fluffy unisex robe from Overstock
2. An eye mask is functional and can be a great gift
3. Fun colored and great smelling soaps from Lush
4. A cheeky candy jar to fill with Lemonheads or gumballs from Jonathan Adler
5. An English pear and freesia scented candle from Jo Malone
6. Bedside water carafe from Crate & Barrel
7. Bright orange tray for them to stash their stuff from Z Gallerie

xo
Erin

The Brighter Side of Things

I looked in my closet last week and realized that almost everything in it was a shade of gray. Sweaters, tees, tops, hoodies, bags, shoes and scarfs. All gray. That can really start to depress a girl. I worship gray and find myself always gravitating towards it in every store. Since it is not black and not white, I guess I have been fooling myself into thinking gray is actually a color. Well, it's not. And it is time for something other than a neutral to throw on. I saw this fantastic orange dress in one of my favorite Chicago boutiques Sofia Vintage over the weekend. I contemplated the insane color for a second, then decided to just try it on. It was like a breath of fresh air. The simple shift shape, three-quarter length sleeve, and scoop neck are perfect. the simplicity of the design allows for the color to speak for itself. I took it up one more notch with this Alice & Olivia belt, but paired it with a simple gold bracelet and nude heels to tame it down just a bit. The dress is by Myne and I could not find it online. I did find a few other bright pieces that I think could shed some light on your wardrobe, though.

Long Blue Shirt Dress by Anthropologie, Skinny Leg Trouser from Zara,  Yellow Clutch by Balenciaga,  Red Pleated Short Skirt from Top Shop, Two Tone Reversible Belt by Jil Sander, Cobalt Drape Front Dress by Diane von Furstenberg

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wishes

Concealer Cle de Peau, Baseball Print at 20x200, Baby Announcement

As we round out the week into the weekend, here are my wishes for a hopefully fabulous few days.

A laughter filled baby shower for my childhood friend, Julie.

Cupcakes in some flavor or form.

Baseball season to start with a win from my team.

For my concealer to do it's job of erasing what ails me.

Sunshine, even just a little bit. Maybe even a couple degrees upward as well.





xo
Erin

Pajama Party

There is a lot of softness going around this Spring and it makes me feel like owning everything in soft colors and soft fabrics. Whether it is blazers, pants, or tanks, this season has a lot of lounge to it and there is a lot to love about this look. I am currently on a no shopping stint thanks to lent (yes, I gave it up for lent and have not broken yet!). So I swept my closet for softness and came up with these DVF silk pants from last season. I love the drawstring, the ease of the fit and the cuff on the bottom. Though these might be a little more harem than pajama, I will have to make do until I can hit the stores again in a few LONG weeks. The feeling that these pants have that I want from this look is that they are super comfortable. It really does feel like I could be in my pajamas and yet I am up out of bed. I have done some pre-shopping and have come up with some great options for us to dive into.

Shoes are YSL similar to these I found on sale. 
Bracelets are a mix of vintage bargains
Clutch is Prada, from Saks, that I could not find online


A Soft, Robe-like Trench from the Gap
Studio Dinner Jacket from Zara
Alexander Wang Brown Layered Skirt
Light Chambray Blazer from Tibi
Slouchy Trouser from Alice & Olivia
Tapered Trouser from Top Shop
Silk Blouse from Silence & Noise at Urban
Chiffon Cardigan also from Silence & Noise
Comfy Yet Chic Maxi Dress from Free People
Roomy Tank From Frenchi  (I own this in 4 colors, my go to top. The soft pink is perfection)

xo
Erin