All About Cheeks: Nars Blush Bronzer Trio

Whether you read it on this blog, saw it on countless magazine polls, or heard it from your favorite make up artist, Nars Orgasm blush lives up to the hype. It has a coral-pink color that can be worn soft or piled on for a more dramatic look. The shade is flattering on so many skin tones and that is why it is so beloved. 

Nars has now figured out a way for you to enjoy this naughtily named blush to its full potential this summer. The limited edition Blush Bronzer Trio ($55), which includes Orgasm blush, Laguna bronzer and Albatross highlighter. All conveniently packaged together in a zipped up compact so you can take it with you on steamy summer evenings. 

I like how Monika here is wearing the Trio. Blush swiped on the cheek, a little bronzer where the sun naturally hits you, and the illuminater dabbed on the top of the cheek bone and just below the eye brow. 

There is also a great tutorial on The Beauty Department on how to use bronzer to contour your face. I have been using a few of those tricks lately and loved it. 

Every girl wants to look sun kissed and fresh faced in the summer (or on vacay) and I love how you can get there with just one purchase. 

xo

Erin 

Two Bags in One

Zipping the suitcase closed after packing can be a challenge when you want to bring your entire wardrobe. When you go away, you want to look chic and pulled together. This can be really tough without checking (oh how I try) or editing yourself well.

The biggest space killers are bags and shoes by far. When it comes to shoes, these Jimmy Choo  nude wedges are my universal warm weather shoe, as they go with everything.

Bags are so much harder to edit since you have to contend with daytime and nighttime looks, sightseeing versus dinners, and everything in between. One way to help out is to find a multi-tasker such as this amazing orange Rebecca Minkoff cross-body clutch.

Notice how the chain (that loops around you perfectly) detaches and you are left with a cute clutch for evenings out? The gold hardware and studs on the bottom glam it up and the roomy insides can fit all you need.

The orange is so fun, but it also comes in more neutral tones to go with what you are packing. At under $200, you are getting a lot for this classic style from Miss Minkoff.

What are some other ways you get more out of what you pack?

xo
Erin

In Love with Lapis Lazuli

There is always that one color for everyone that when it catches your eye, you gravitate for it. 

For as long as as my brain can remember, deep bright blue has been that color. I remember that Catherine's room was painted it in Cruel Intentions,  it was the color of the water in Capri, and Cornflower was my favorite Crayon color. 

So naturally this color peaks my interest while shopping, especially for vintage accessories. These two are frequently found on my wrist. 

Lapis has such a vibrant, rich color. It also feels exotic since it is mined mainly in the Middle East and its origin dates back to the Mesopotamians. Cleopatra used Lapis powder on her eyes, love that. 

Lapis pieces can get really pricey, but I did some browsing and found some great finds that are a bit more down to earth than the ridic pieces I saw at Barney's recently (worth drooling over). 

1. Kenneth Jay Lane lapis Dream cocktail ring at Max & Chloe $190

2. King Baby Studio lapis bead bracelet at Zappos Couture $345

3. Chan Luu gold and leather bracelet at Net-A-Porter $345

4. Lapis and coral drop earrings by Bounkit at Charm & Chain $375

5. Thin lapis cuff by Bounkit at Charm & Chain $430

6. Kara by Kara Ross lapis cocktail ring at Max & Chloe $280

7. Amrita Singh earrings at Couture Candy $100

xo
Erin

Insurance or Traveler's Best Friend?

I think the answer  is both when it comes to these cute fold-up flats from Yosi Samra. While shopping at the brand new Scoop NYC outpost in Chicago, these little guys were staring at me when I checked out. 

How perfect would they be stashed away in your oh-so-cute clutch and slipped on after a long night on the town? And since we are in the midst of wedding season, these are much more chic than going barefoot on the dance floor or distributed out to your bridesmaids instead of flip flops. 

I love how they come in so many different colors and textures. The pink suede pair reminds me of my old ballet slippers. They look incredibly soft which is ideal for a long flight and exploring a new city. The price is right as they start at just $55, so you can enjoy or snag a pair as gift.

xo
Erin

Weekend Wish

It is time to lay in the sun and soak up some Vitamin D. And although I will be coated in SPF 60, my wish is that I still get a slight bronze.

How I miss the days of slathering on the oil and baking to a medium brown.

Getting older takes the fun out of it a bit, but with these summer essentials I can still enjoy my time in the sun.

There is something about summer that brings out my girlie side. Wearing a super femme bikini, hot pink cut offs, and sipping a cold can of sparkling blanc de blanc out of a fuchsia can sounds glorious. The bubbles will be even greater as I giggle through funny girl, Tina Fey's, new book Bossypants.

I hope you have a great weekend and find some time in the sunshine.

xo
Erin

Love for Lemlem

Nothing feels better in the summer than throwing on something super soft, light and gauzy. Whether over your bikini or with pretty sandals for cocktails, we all want those pieces that look and feel great.

Enter these beautiful dresses and tunics from Lemlem that are my current obsession. Even from the photos they look soft to the touch and perfect for summer.

Liya Kebede, the stunning supermodel and humanitarian, has brought the talent of Ethiopian weavers stateside in hopes to promote this ancient art form from her native country.

You have to love a product that does some good. Bonus is that you will look and feel gorgeous all summer long.

Would it be too much to order all four of these? Wait, don't answer that, I already know the answer.

xo
Erin

For All the BFFs Out There

When looking for a favor for a recent birthday party, I stumbled across a store on Etsy that made old school friendship bracelets. The EmbroideryFloss shop makes all the patterns and knots that you spent hours trying to master as a kid. The favors were a huge success and now I wear mine all the time, stacked into different bracelets and watches.  

The best part of ordering any of these bracelets is that 10% of the proceeds goes to St. Jude's Children's Children's Cancer Research. So not only do you get to sport a cute bracelet, you are doing some good. And for $10, you can get a few. How fun to give for a gift for your BFF? Never too old for one, promise. 

xo

Erin 

Crushing on Courtney

Courtney Cox has long been someone we love. From her start as the girl who is pulled up on stage in a Springsteen video, to our long time bestie Monica Geller, and today as Mom to Coco and BFF to Jennifer, she has showed us what a Hollywood star should be.

I have long admired her grace and style. Her beauty seems to run a lot deeper than her fantastic red carpet style and ageless skin.

She seems real and someone you want to hang out with. And I really wish that was a possibility, as then I would be able to visit her at this beautiful Malibu beach house.

Courtney's house was recently featured in Elle Decor and she opened up about the design process and the aesthetic she was looking for.

The house was originally very dark and needed a modern renovation. Courtney worked very closely with an architect and designer that brought the indoors out and made the space perfect for her traditional Sunday get-togethers.

It turns out that Ms. Cox was an architecture student before becoming an actress. And much like her striving-for-perfection character on Friends, she has her hand in every step of any renovation she does.

The house has several buildings and places to entertain. My absolute favorite space is the outdoor fire pit area where Courtney has coffee every morning. I would die to have a place like that to relax.

The onyx tiles in the master bath and the giant wrought iron doors are fantastic.

How amazing is the outdoor bar modeled after a hot dog stand and the food trucks buzzing around LA? Courtney's chef cooks inside and serves up the food to guests there.

At first, I felt some of the spaces to feel a bit cold. But after reading about her love of the beach and bringing the indoors out, the spaces started to liven up.

Obviously, Courtney has great taste and it is so fun to see where she goes home at the end of the day. Maybe one day we will be invited.

Because I would love to have a cup of coffee with her around the fire pit.

xo
Erin

Weekend Wish

After a rather busy week, I am looking forward to a nice weekend in the city with my family. Alfresco dining, grassy rounds of golf, and hopefully a sail are in my future. And my wish is that while doing this I can have as much fun and try to be as gorgeous as these lovely ladies captured by one of my favorite bloggers, Garance Dore. So, so pretty! 

Happy weekend!

xoxo
Erin

Destination: Philadelphia

'Love' sculpture at JFK Park

Philadelphia is like getting a refresher course on your American history, all while enjoying some amazing food and exploring great neighborhoods. I ventured here last month to attend my brother's graduation from Penn, and really fell in love with it. Though it may not be a place you find yourself going for a week's vacation, it certainly is a fun weekend spot and there is plenty to do if you find yourself here for a work trip. The most similar thing about Philly to Chicago is that the people love to eat. Whether it was cooked by a chef or slathered in Cheez Whiz, it was all really delicious.



Eat
Parc Bistro & Cafe: Beautiful atmosphere and lovely food in Rittenhouse Square
Fork: Elegant farm to table food at it's best in Old City.
Cochon: BYOB with more pork on a menu than I have ever seen, which is a great thing.
Sabrina's Cafe: Massive brunch menu with portions to match. Also BYOB
Jack's Firehouse: Set in a 19th century Firehouse in the Fairmount neighborhood with great BBQ

See
Philadelphia Museum of Art: Run up the 'Rocky' stairs like a champ, then explore the beautiful art. The Capucci exhibit was outstanding and so gorgeous.
Old City: Find out how the founding fathers got things done by visiting Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell*, and Betsy Ross's house.
University of Pennsylvania: The school lives up to its Ivy League credential by being absolutely gorgeous.
Rittenhouse Square Park: Peruse the public art and the neighborhood filled with shops and restaurants
JFK Park: Visit the famous LOVE statue.
Eastern State Penitentiary: Visit this massive old prison that when built, was the largest and most expensive structure ever constructed. Former inmate Al Capone's old stomping grounds

Do
Reading Terminal Market: Get your eating shoes on and walk around this huge market with more food options than it is possible to sample, although I tried. Top picks were DiNic's pork sandwich, Spatoro's cheesesteak, and the Amish pretzels. Bring a group and share so you can try everything.

Skuylkill River: Rent a kayak and paddle, walk along the water, or find an outdoor cafe to relax at

*note: Do not wait in a long line to see the bell. You can see it outside from the window and it is just as lovely.

I know there are so many more places, please share!

xo
Erin

Style Snapshot: Kathryn

Now we get a taste of some West Coast style from Kathryn, in San Diego. For sure one of the sassiest and stylish girls I know. She shares with us what she uses to doll up, stay in shape, and how this teacher stays chic. 

'First of all, if I were homeless, I'd still find a way to have my brows waxed. Melissa McDougle at Salon de Marcus is my brow shaper and I adore her. She is simply the best brow waxer/shaper that  I’ve ever gone to and I will never stray! 

I used to swear by Lancome Definicils mascara. However, after relocating to Tucson for college and being 60 miles from the nearest Nordies, I was forced to buy mascara at the drug store. It took me years to find a good one but I finally did.  I am completely dependent on L'Oreal Telescopic mascara. My eyelashes are thicker and longer than they have ever been before, except when I had eyelash extensions, of course, and I recommend this brand to everyone. 

I'm a teacher, so the finer things in life are often just a bit out of reach. This is especially true when it comes to skin care products. A teacher friend recently introduced me to Oil of Olay's Touch of Foundation (not to be confused with touch of sun) daily moisturizer. I am obsessed! It gives you a dewy glow without the look of heavy foundation. It is great for daytime and also a great base to wear under powder at night. 

I am a loyal fan of Flowerbomb perfume by Viktor & Rolf. I have been wearing it for a few years now and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

I get my hair cut and colored by Dana Priest at Salon Texture. She is my hairstylist and my friend and I wish my hair always looked like it does after spending a few hours in her chair. 

I use Palmer's Cocoa Butter daily...it's Walgreen's best kept secret and it works to tone skin and smooth away any unwanted stretch marks. I also wear Aveeno SPF 85. I know it’s a bit excessive but I am a total weirdo about my skin these days!

My usual shopping often consists of getting hand-me-downs from lacey's closet. She works at Elyse Walker in LA. The best part is that it's usually "out of style" in LA far before it's even become "in style" in san diego. 

If I am in the mood for a hunt, I go straight to H&M. I prefer it to Forever 21 because I always have more luck there. It is so great to finally have an H&M in San Diego! 

If I don't feel like digging, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's are my best bets. I can always find a cute dress and/or tops there. There are not that many great boutiques I like in San Diego these days, so I do most of my shopping at these two places. 

My favorite brand for dresses is Alice & Olivia…love their cute patterns and fun styles. For shoes, I am very into Sam Edelman at the moment. They are stylish and relatively affordable and I have bought more pairs than I care to admit in the last few months. A girl can never have too many shoes though, right? 

For online shopping, gilt.com is my favorite. It has really fun jewelry and I also do a lot of my jeans and dress shopping on Gilt. When shopping online, I usually buy J brand jeans because I know how the various styles fit my body and that's important to me when ordering online. If i'm being completely honest, it's an added bonus that J Brand's sizes run a bit big so you get to wear a smaller size than you might in another brand. 

I like to mix memorable and special jewelry, like my grandmother's rings and the diamond hoops that my parents had made for my 30th, with fun costume jewelry that I get from gilt.com and other local shops. 

Cosabella bralettes! (above) Lacey turned me onto these adorable lace bras and they are truly a girl's best friend. I have one in white, black, and pink and wear them over my regular bras because it's okay if they show through a semi-sheer top or if the strap is exposed since they're super cute. 

Voluspa candles are my absolute favorite and we have several of these great smelling, cute, decorative candles throughout the house.

I have been running lately. A lot. Running from or toward nothing in particular, just running. I completed my third half marathon this past weekend and today I feel as though I never want to run again. I have one more half marathon to go this year and then I am going to seriously scale back and go back to running 4-5 miles just to stay in shape. Running is great because it's a quick way to work out and because I live in San Diego, I am able to run outdoors most of the year. I will participate in the Rock and Roll half marathon every year because it's a super fun race with a great cause. Come join me next year!  

I LOVE yoga and especially the yoga sculpt class that is offered by Corepower Yoga. Sometimes yoga can be a bit slow moving for  my taste, so this is the perfect class for me. It combines traditional yoga and core strengthening with weight lifting and cardio in a heated room. It is an ass kicker and never gets easier.

I can be a glutton for punishment, so I really like boot camp too. In fact, I just bought a boot camp through Groupon, so I am looking forward to checking that out. After telling other people (4th graders) what to do all day, it's nice to have someone telling me what to do! Because of my hours as a teacher, I am able to work out 4-5 times a week, which is great. 

I am on a serious vitamin kick that is supposed to help combat migraines and actually has seemed to do so. I was prescribed this daily regiment by Dr. Craig Pursuit and I take vitamin D, B-12, Coenzyme Q-10, Calcium Citracal, and Fish Oil.'

Thanks Kitty! 

xo

Erin 

Pleats + Length + Skirt = Love

Long pleated maxi skirts and vintage-inspired jewelry at a steal sounds like the perfect summer look. Best part of these comfortable, soft skirts is that you can pair with your favorite cotton tank or tee so you always feel at ease. Whether real vintage or remakes, like those below, wearing an accessory that feels like it has a story is always fun. 

1. Long pleated skirt in rust by Tibi at Shopbop $297

2. Linked swirl earring by Topshop $10

3. Maxi Desert skirt by Rag & Bone $495 

4. Shannon printed maxi skirt by Alice & Olivia at Net-a-Porter $485

5. Bell engraved drop earrings by Topshop $15

6. Chiffon pleated maxi skirt from ASOS $94

7. Snake stretch bracelet by Topshop $28

8. Rectangle stretch cuff by Topshop $25

9. Slinky segment metal rope by Topshop $30

10. Long skirt by Zara $89

I am obsessed with the Alice & Olivia and am thinking that it has to join my wardrobe. It is what made me want to shop this look today. It would be so perfect with the Topshop cuff, white tank, and Capri sandals.  Which one is your favorite? 

xo

Erin 

Scary, but True

There are so many fun ways to manipulate your picture on the internet. Whether it is trying on a celeb's hair style at Instyle.com or laughing at your chubby cheeks while playing Fat Booth on your iphone. 

But, now there is a seriously scary way to see what your face will look like down the road. I am not joking, it kind of made me cry. 

It is the Age-O-Meter from Rodan & Fields on Facebook. It is no joke. I could not even bring myself to share the after pic because it was that jarring. 

http://www.facebook.com/rodanandfields

Granted, I am sure they are trying to scare you so you buy more of their products, but it certainly made aging a reality in about 1 minute. 

That reality is that you are getting older, you will get older, and if you don't wear sunscreen you are going to look even MORE freaking older. 

But, sunscreen is not just for aging. It's main purpose is to save your life, the bonus is that you will age more gracefully. 

Which brings me to another great post I read on one of my favorite blogs, Tale of Two Tings. If you still don't believe that sunscreen or staying out of the tanning booth is important, read this post. The blog is written by this cute girl, who has style and obviously, a ton of fun.

Photo: http://bockting.blogspot.com/

If you have read it you know that slathering on the 'screen can change your life. Either by saving it, making it a bit more beautiful as you age, or most likely, both.

xo
Erin

CFDA Awards 2011 + Weekend Wish

My picks for best and worst dressed from the CFDA Awards in New York this week are a bit delayed. My weekend wish is to channel a bit more of Karlie's, Chanel's, the Olsens', and LeeLee's style into my weekend. And hopefully stay away from being on any one's worst dressed list. 

Photos: harpersbazaar.com

Karlie Kloss stole the show in my opinion. What a perfect dress for a summer night in NYC with your favorite designer. The hair and the lipstick are perfection. 

I have a serious girl crush on Chanel Iman.  This 70s, Bianca Jagger-esque look makes me want to hit the dance floor at Studio 54 all night with her. 

People can say what they want about the Olsen girls, but they clearly have style and I love their eclectic range. Everyone (including me) are eyeing those Row bags and Mary Kate's pooling skirt. 

I have to admit, I am not the biggest fan of LeeLee, but she won me over with this chic white tuxedo. The shoes help her kill it and so does the lipstick. 

I just don't get Behati's look. It straight up confuses me. All of it. 

I know that I have been down on Marchesa recently, but I just can't help it. Every dress is insane to me. Although, I actually like Keren's dress. Georgina's looks like a mash up of a pageant gown and some of Mum's old lace. 

L'ren Scott puts out such amazing, well tailored, beautiful dresses for her clients. She could have done the same for herself by ditching this print. It, along with the hair, makes it seem cheap. 

I hate to put Kirstin on the list, as I love the risks she takes on the red carpet. But this ill fitting tuxedo along with the high collared shirt is bizarre. 

I hope you all have a great weekend and feel free to make comments. My opinion is just that, mine, and I would love to hear all of yours! 

xo

Erin 

Ahoy, Ladies

Summer is finally freaking here! In the midwest it jumped from the 60s to the 90s in less than two weeks and now everyone is ready for frosty drinks, lazy days basking in the sun, and maybe a boat trip on the lake. I know I am ready. 

The nautical look is something that needs to be worn carefully. It can go from chic to cheesy real fast. Pick one piece that has a nautical feel and keep the rest of your look classic and pulled together. I can feel the breeze off the water already. 

1. Anchor Necklace by Rachel by Rachel Roy at Macy's $38
2. Widelegger Jeans in Amarillo Wash from Madewell $125
3. Canvas Espadrille Wedge by Splendid $112
4. Angela Adams and Sea Bags for J. Crew $198
5. Pink striped Henley by J. Crew from Net-A-Porter $60
6. Gold Boat Shoes by Libby Edelman from Zappos $79
7. Red striped bikini by Quiksilver $88
8. Striped Jersey Maxi Dress by Day Birger et Mikkelsen from Net-A-Porter $130
9. Sweater Dress by Marc by Marc Jacobs from Net-A-Porter $250
10. Gold Knotted Sandals by DV by Dolce Vita from Lori's $62

xo

Erin 

Jean Obsession: Mother

Taking pictures of yourself has to be the most awkward action on the planet. I do not have an in-house photographer to help me out and if you saw the make-shift tripod I set up you would think I was four. Plus, smiling into a camera and trying to pose in a flattering way just feels strange and a bit creepy when you are alone. 

Regardless of all that, I took my best crack at it. Let's just say that they are not the best, but they will show you the new jeans that I may never take off my body. I was sent these from my extremely fashion savvy friend, Lacey, who works at Elyse Walker in Pacific Palisades, CA. (BTW, they are having a huge sale with most 50% off!) Although I have never been to the actual store, you can find me often browsing the ridiculously well stocked website. 

Tank: J. Crew, Bra: Top Secret, Jeans: Mother, Necklace& Bracelets: vintage, Shoes: Fendi

These jeans are so soft, lightweight, and have the perfect stretch to them. The lighter wash is not something that usually flatters, but the strategic distress leans the leg out. We have been seeing so much of this extra flared leg and paired with a gauzy tank or breezy silk blouse, you will be channeling Ali McGraw in no time.

Mother makes a variety of washes and cuts. This particular style is sold out at Elyse Walker, but they have others to choose from. The above are called The Wilder in Adios to My Old Life wash. Love that. You can find them here.

Need to work on my photographer skills, pronto.

xo
Erin 

Destination: Villa Balboa, Puerto Vallarta

Vacation Rental By Owner. Using this service has changed my traveling life. If you have never used it, explore by researching a place you recently went to and check out where you could have stayed for the same amount as you paid for your hotel. Trust me, the options will surprise you. 

My first experience with VRBO could not have been more amazing. Nine girls on a trip to Mexico and this is where we got to stay. Let me just say that pictures do not do Villa Balboa justice, as the surroundings are just the start to how luxe this place is. 

You would think that we broke the bank to stay in this immaculately decorated,  ridiculously spacious, and fully staffed palace, but I assure you that the rate is more than reasonable. 

You arrive to fresh margaritas and mojitos and a grand tour from the staff. Picking a room is hard because they all have something special with tons of privacy. Each with a balcony and the ocean right below. 

Besides having a beautiful place to stay, you have the most gracious staff at your disposal at all times. Need a fresh drink? A bottle of wine in your suite? A lawn chair moved in the sun? A four course dinner fresh from the local market? It is all done and done very well. 

Cristhian and the other chefs made the most wonderful meals each day. Fresh, delicious, and better than any resort restaurant by far. Edgar arranged for us to venture out into PV and even secured us the best table at the local disco where we most certainly boogied all night. 

There really was not a whole lot of reason to leave the villa. Whales swam so close to the house that their breaths could be heard from the balcony. It was incredible. The house itself is beautifully designed with a wide range of local art, as PV is known as an artist's community. 

When our feet were back on the cold ground in Chicago, we all wondered where the fresh guacamole was and our glass of champagne? Sadly, we were no longer treated like Mexican Princesses. So until next time...

Visit www.villabalboa.com  for more information or to book. Trust me, if you have a large group, you will not find a better value anywhere in Mexico. 

xo

Erin 

Style Snapshot: Jenny

Thank you to everyone on your feedback about the profiles. You all seem to like the advice from girls in the know, but appreciate they are people that you can relate to. Let's face it, we are all looking for what is new, fresh, and best for all of us and these profiles give you a glimpse into what works and why. 

Our next profile is of Jenny, Associate Publisher for CS magazine in Chicago. I have known Jenny since we were still in our pegged jeans and had braces. We have come a long way and Jenny has become a familiar face in Chicago. As a publisher, she is exposed to so much of what is best in fashion, design and service. She is also a hard working lady who has little free time, but needs to look her very best. Here are some of her tips and tricks. 

Photo: Maria Ponce, www.poncephotography.com

'I get to see so many great clothes in my job, but I am regularly in Sofia Vintage, Sarca, and Bloomingdale's for my evening gear for the best events in the city. I also do love bidding at E Drop Off. It is the only time I'll shop online. Corri makes it fun and always, always has great items to bid on.

I don't shop online much because I like the experience of shopping in person, touching the fabric, and having someone who has a passion for style help me and take me out of my comfort zone. It is so fun to see them put something on me that I typically wouldn't even consider. Heidy Best at Neiman Marcus on Michigan Ave is the best for that. She has put me in some cocktail dresses that I never would have thought twice about, but are a go every time.

I am not ashamed to admit that I hit up Forever 21 on a fairly regular basis for "trendy" pieces and jewelry that I can pair with more expensive items.

Theory is my go to work attire being a publisher, since it translates well from day to night. I have started to belt everything and mix and match colors. Theory makes it easy to take a basic work dress and elevate it with a colorful belt and heels for an event.  

My go to shoes are Louboutin and Tory Burch for work. I have a sick obsession with Tory Burch shoes. Not only the flats, which are great for running from meeting to meeting during the day, but I also have the most amazing pair of heels from her (now on sale). So don't just look to Tory for flats and flip flops, her heels are amazing and worth the splurge, they last. Brooks Shoe Repair is my saving grace. Michael is the greatest and can take anything my hectic job does to me shoes and make them look like new again. Not sure what I would do without him! 

Since I'm all about local clients working at CS, I have two favorite local jewelry designers. Erin Gallagher, in Lincoln Park, is great for fun earrings. Since I typically wear my studs, she makes some great dangles to help me mix it up.  Erin Gordon makes the most amazing bracelets. I love stacking her designs and she makes it easy to pair with my John Hardy bracelet that I wear every day. It adds a bit of color to my mostly silver collection.

I love my Pricvy jeans, such a great find at Nordstrom.  No one has really heard of them and they fit right with flats or heels. It is all about the alterations, it can make a good pair of jeans great in opinion. I go to Tailors Touch or a department store. For everyday jeans, I love Hudson or AG. They are so comfortable. 

For face products I listen to whatever my dermatologist, Dr. Carolyn Jacob, tells me to use. She is hands down the best doctor in the city and I listen to whatever she says. Right now, she has me using the Glytone line of products and it works. 

My hair is naturally curly and I don't always have the time to blow it out myself. Blo Dri is blocks from my office and Elizabeth fits me in when I need help. She also adds highlights when I need a refresher and it makes my week. I am obsessed with all the Moroccan Oil products, the smell and the way it keeps my hair soft. 

I am a sucker for a great tan, but with a history of skin cancer in my family I have to be careful. I love spray tans from Sandra at Bella Bronze. She is Colombian and knows how to make your tan perfect. I keep make up pretty simple, but when I have the time I like to hit up the Laura Mercier counter for new products. The Tightline Cake Eyeliner in Ebony is my current obsession. It is also really convenient to go to when I have an event and want a professional to doll me up.  

When I can make time for a work out, I prefer a long run on the lake front. But with a packed schedule that can be hard to do. I try to take Shred 415 at least once a week, which is insane. I have also started loving yoga over the last year, which I swore was not for me. I love Corepower yoga classes, especially the level 2 class. Otherwise, I try to make it to David Barton Gym for some motivation surrounded by the most ridiculously fit people in Chicago.'

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wishes

Fendi.com

How great are short weeks? My wishes this weekend are to wear my new (thanks Lacey!) shoes somewhere. No real party plans, so that might mean just around my house with a glass of wine.

I would also like to bake a pie. Thinking about this easy recipe for strawberry.

Lastly, I would like to wish all of you luck in hunting down something fab this weekend. Be it in fashion, home or location, have fun and please share!



xo
Erin

Bringing Bright Home

There has been so much neon and day glo on the runway in the past year you would think everyone needed shades to attend. As I wrote in this post, I am loving this attack of bright color and most often when used in unexpected ways. 

I saw these trays by Alexandra Von Furstenberg (daughter of the extraordinary Diane) in the recent In Style magazine and fell in love with them. 

As it turns out, Alexandra has a design business that specializes in acrylic pieces for your home. These trays are a great way to bring in a modern touch and some of that neon trend to your home. Check out her site as her pieces are fantastic. 

I also found these fun canisters in bright colors and a variety of sizes. And at $9-$20, they are an easy way to brighten up without spending much. 

It is fun to find something you can live with in a trend that you are also wearing. 

xo

Erin 

Flirting with Summer: White Lace Dresses

Pretty white lace mini dresses have been popping up on tons of red carpets lately and with summer officially here, it is a great way to dress up your day or night. Nothing could be more feminine, flirty, and  easily edged up. Try accessories like booties, leather jackets, chunky necklaces or belts. 

1. Lace camisole dress from Zara $59

2. Pins & Needles 3/4 sleeve dress from Urban Outfitters $79

3. Lace dress with gathered waist from Hollister $59

4. Cap sleeve lace dress from Lilly Pulitzer $378

5. Kimchi romper from Urban Outfitters $59

6. Tiered lace dress by See by Chloe at Nieman Marcus $495

xo

Erin