Shop the Look: Sandra

Sandra looked stunning and festive last week at an AmFar event....

The metallic mini dress with a men's style jacket is the perfect combination for the upcoming holiday season. (The invitations are probably starting to arrive in your inbox) My go to look for the colder months is to throw on my favorite tuxedo jacket (easily my best investment piece) with a cocktail dress. Always comfortable, it can be taken off when you hit the dance floor and it always looks chic. 


Shopping Sandra's look was really fun and there are so many great options that getting dressed up this season has never been easier. 

1. Graphic gold tank dress Alice + Olivia $495

2. Cream and gold mini Pencey $497

3. Black and gold foil dress Adam $495

4. Cinched waist gold mini Parker $308

5. Black tank and gold mini Rachel Zoe $495 

6. Long sleeved gold mini DVF $765

7. Rose gold sequin mini Free People $258

8. Open Back black and gold mini Parker $330

1. Vince Camuto $165

2. Vince $485

3. Express $118

4. BCBG $149

5. Elizabeth & James $495

6. Elizabeth & James $595

7. Mason $595

8. Alexander Wang $298

1. Metallic snakeskin clutch Lauren Merkin $350

2. White gold link bracelet Bauble Bar $102

3. Set of three link bracelets Av Max $95

4. Horse bit and chain link bracelet Privileged $70

5. Black snakeskin and studded clutch House of Harlow $195

6. Silver link bracelet Ted Baker $80

7. Bronze and silver pave bracelet Lanvin $390

8. Double link cuff Lee Angel $55 

9. Black Metallic stingray clutch Kotur $550

10. Rose gold chunky link bracelet ASOS $26

xoxo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: Class Up Halloween

I saw the greatest quote this morning from Nicole Ritchie: "Girls, can we all pledge that we will not dress slutty for this Halloween? The jig is up!" 

Just as portrayed in one of my all time fave movies, Mean Girls, Halloween seems to be the only time that it is ok to dress in your underwear in public. I get it, some girls want to show off what they got and it is the one day they have an excuse to do it. I have been guilty of some bad taste over my years (early twenties, no judgement) of such behavior. 

My weekend wish is that everyone comes up with something fab to wear this weekend and dare I say, chic? That word is not usually associated with this holiday, but let's give it a shot. 

Happy Halloween and Have Fun! 
xo
Erin 

Blingin' Like Gwen

Tearing through new issues of magazines when they arrive at my door is kind of my favorite thing to do. Call it a hobby, a time to relax or an escape to another place, paging through fashion magazines fresh off the press makes me happy. 

I hardly even got past the first glance at the cover of the November InStyle, when I fell in love with Gwen's stack of chunky, sparkly bangles. 

Gwen's sporting a hefty pile of Lorraine Schwartz, which is just a tad (ions) out of my price range. Lorraine makes gorgeous pieces that celebrities love to wear and she has a fun aesthetic that can be worn with many different looks. 

Though Gwen here is in a gorgeous couture gown, she could easily be wearing that stack with a boyfriend blazer, skinny jeans and booties for drinks. Or with a 3/4 length sleeve t shirt tucked into a maxi skirt for a brunch date. Or with a favorite LBD that needs an update. 

Either way, they are fun and could make a statement with anything you are wearing. And although Lorraine's bangles are out of our reach, I found a designer who is. 

Chamak by Priya Kakkar has an extensive selection of crystal studded bangles that are colorful, versatile and perfect for stacking up your arm. And with price tags that are within budget ($36-$145) and some coming as sets, it makes shopping for them fun. 

Here are some stacks I put together from the collection. Click on individual links to browse or purchase...

From top: Two slim bracelets in blue, white, and gold, Wide bracelet with Blue Circles, slim orange and yellow bracelets, Blue striped bracelet

From Top: Purple and White Striped, Set of Two Gold and White, Set of Two Pink and Gold, Set of two gray and gold 

From Top: Set of Two Gold, Red Ombre, Thick White and Gold, Black Ombre 

Any of these stacks would make my day and make some of my tired looks so much better. 


xo
Erin 

Halloween Table Setting

I hosted a "Fright Night" dinner for my girlfriends last weekend and thought I would share my table setting with all of you. I am not much for "themes" or too much when it comes to holiday decorating, but I had fun putting this setting together for a casual girls night. 

I kept the place mats casual and the napkins were paper in a preppy print, but orange for the occasion. The wax lips were a fun way to start the meal off with lots of laughs and pictures. 

I found the skull votive candles at Z Gallerie on sale. The tiger striped pumpkins were a steal at Trader Joe's. 

The glasses were a last minute addition that I found hidden away from when I received them as a wedding gift. The tulips were easy to put together. 

1. Fill three containers with water

2. Trim off excess leaves off tulips and bring together in a bouquet bunch. Trim length down to an inch or two higher than the container. 

3. Secure with a rubber band. Take one of the small leaves you trimmed off and wrap around the rubber band to hide it. Use a pin to secure (I used some old earrings). 

That was dinner at my house on Saturday and my attempt at Halloween decorations for grown ups. The flowers are holding up great and I have to say it makes me want to get even more festive as the holidays come closer. At least a little bit. 

xo

Erin 

Pink at Home

It was so fun looking for pink items yesterday for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, that I got inspired to look for interiors with our favorite color. 

Pink is tough when it comes to decorating. It can be a bit too much if over done and the shade of pink makes such a difference when considering the space and those that occupy it. 

The fun part is that there is so many ways to incorporate it and if you can pull off being extra girlie in at least one part of your home, it is fun to really go all out. 

You could start with some accent chairs...

Or paint that old dresser you found at the local flea market...

I love the idea of painting the back walls of your side of the closet or a bookcase...

And throwing a couple pink accessories in your space is an easy update...

For those with men with no affinity for pink, casually throwing a pink print into your gallery wall could be perfect...

Or you could settle for just some flowers and accessories on your side of the bed...

How fresh and tranquil is this blush and beige living room? 

Adding some pink drapes is also such a pretty and soft touch...

My better half happens to be colored blind, so let's just say I will be telling him this is green when I use it around the house. It can be our little secret. 


xo
Erin 

Pink Love

As October comes to a close this week, it also finishes up another Breast Cancer Awareness month. Pink dominates the scene this month from the tops of sky scrapers, to Katy Perry's hair, and everything in between. It is one of those months where you had to have a hand in something Pink related, whether a fundraiser or special cocktail at your favorite bar. 

The Pink movement has come a long way and the fun thing is that there is shopping involved. Though a girl loves something pink year round, October is a special time to pick up something that helps the cause. 

With one week left, you still have time to make your contribution. I found some great options that all help to raise funds for the research, prevention and awareness of breast cancer. 

1. Dress by Blu Moon $84

2. Kristen clutch in pink by Coach $108

3. Pink skinny jeans by True Religion $189

4. Shape of My Heart nail polish by Deborah Lippmann $16

5. Pink rain boots by Hunter $125

6. Friendship bracelet by Jessica Quirk for LOFT Cares $34

7. Semi-precious pink stone ring by Love Child $172

8. Black and pink fleece by North Face $165 

9. Pink Pony flip flops by Ralph Lauren $40 

10. Cashmere scarf by White + Warren $360

Don't forget it is a great time to give yourself an exam and talk to your doctor about your risks. It is never too early and you can never be too careful. 

Love goes out to all with the disease, helping someone through it or has lost someone they love. 

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: Everyday Style by Reese

Some girls just have that ease of style each day that makes you want to rip off the yoga pants and actually put on an outfit to run your errands. While most girls do not have to be photographed every step of the way, Reese does and she always looks cute. 

Just off to take Ava to soccer practice...

But the best part of her style is that she does not look like she is trying too hard. As much of a movie star as she is, she still dresses like most women do (or want to) without too many bells and whistles (or labels) to scare us off. 

Must be why she is the beloved, sassy girl next store. 

Her outfit above is simple, yet chic and oh-so attainable for any of us. 

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs from Shopbop $275

2.  Betsy Johnson $145

3. Marc Jacobs from Endless $225

4. Oliver Peoples from Saks $310

5. Nadri from Nordstrom $118

6. Hayden from Bluefly $109

7. The Row at Barney's $445

8. Ray Ban from  Amazon $119

9. Old Navy $35

10. ASOS $26

11. Current Elliot from Cusp $196 

12. Fallon from Barney's $140

13. Aubin & Wills Drynum from Net-a-Porter $150

14. Paige premium denim from Far Fetch $321

15. Nine West from Amazon $160

16. Marc Jacobs from Endless $430

17. J Brand from Cusp $169

18. Charles David from Amazon $445

I think a pair of skinny cropped jeans, a pair of boots to tuck them into and a few chic sweaters can get you through until Spring. Reese knows what's up. 


My weekend wish is to remember what Reese does and put just a smidge more effort into every day. Well, at least almost every day. 


Happy Weekend! 
xo
Erin 

Bringing Home Some Upper East Side

I have been watching more television than I would like to admit. Between being sick and the colder weather, I am well caught up on my DVR and have embarrassingly got pulled into watching some really bad reality TV via VH1. You know who you are Basketball Wives. 

Luckily, there are new episodes of some of my favorite shows waiting in my DVR box each morning. One of which is Gossip Girl. 

I have been a loyal fan from the beginning. And while the story lines are getting a bit redundant and possibly cliche, I love tuning in to see what Blair and Serena will be wearing, what NYC spot they are hitting and how the set will be decorated. 

Truly, between the fashion and the decor, there is always a ton of fun inspiration each week. And let's not forget the life lessons we learn (ie: try not to hook up with your ex right before being proposed to by a prince). 

Take a look at this snippet of set and the beautiful painting. 

Gossip Girl lets us into a fantasy world, which is why we love it. My fantasy is that I own that painting and it sits above my four poster bed in my Manhatten penthouse, where I eat macaroons in bed and online shop all afternoon. 

While we can all dream, a piece of Manhattan's elite is probably not in the cards. What we can do is look to Etsy and see what artists that we can afford might be able to contribute to our own sets at home. 

I found some great paintings...

1. afiori $30

2. EmmaWalshDesign $25

3. AustinMScott $30

4. FreeArtStudio $80

And some beautiful photographs...

1. ParisPhotographer $27

2. GeorgiannaLane $25

3. ElleMoss $40

4. PettyPetalStudio $8

5. MetOperaShop $80 (LOVE)

And you can bet your Blackberry that these price tags are ions lower than anything Lily has on her fab walls. 

Can't wait for next week's episode and some more inspiration (ie: Is Blair having Chuck's baby?!). 

xoxo

Erin 

Seeing Stars

Lately, there have been a lot of stars sporting stars....

I am loving this print for Fall as it steps aways from the florals of summer and has a really playful vibe. You can also switch it up by changing up the scale. Larger stars have more of an impact, while the smaller print allows you to have some fun without being too literal. 

1. Black star print blazer Topshop $130

2. L'Agence Star sweater from Net-A-Porter $245

3. L'Agence chiffon star print blouse from Matches $285

4. Girl. by Band of Outsiders printed dress from Les Nouvelles $543

5. ASOS belted star print dress ASOS $82

6. Elizabeth and James dress from the Outnet $186 (sale!)

7. Blui star print scarf from Far Fetch $119

8. Star Print tiered blouse from Topshop $76

xo

Erin 

Serving Cocktails with Style

We all covet something for our house. A piece we know is missing, but is hard to find and will be putting a dent in our wallet. For me, I have been scouting for a gold leaf bar cart for well over a year. Unable to commit and not wanting to justify the price tag with my better half, I have continued shopping even though I have found some great options. 

Doesn't this look lovely? 

Lilly Pulitzer Bamboo Bar Cart, Available Soon from her new furniture line

I rarely turn to gold when picking out anything for my house, but for some reason I am obsessed with the color for evoking a time well into our past, and bringing some glam into my living room. 

My search has involved flea markets and antique stores, since I am convinced I can find one that will be a steal. That has not been very successful. Problem is, when you are looking for something specific it rarely ever is found. 

I have found a few that I like, some with some age to them, others reproductions. All I know is that I am still not ready to commit, but I am glad I have some options. I am giving myself until Christmas since I am hosting and setting up a festive bar on my new cart makes me giddy. 

1. Arteriors "Emory" Bar Cart from Horchow $1,169

2. Antique 1970's Italian brass and brushed metal bar cart from Buck House on 1stDibs $2,200

3. Brass and cane bar cart by Farnsworth on 1stDibs $1,600

4. World's Away Bar Cart in gold leaf from Candelabra $817

5. Jan Showers Leland Drinks Cart, price upon request

Which one is your favorite? Help me decide! 

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish: A Piece of Newport

While in Newport last weekend, I came across some beautiful abstract sailing photographs in a local restaurant. Being in a family that loves to sail and trying to keep the kitsch away from anything "themed" in my house, I am always on the look out for art I know my husband will like and I can see on our walls.

The photographer is Onne van der Wal, a dutch photographer who has been sailing and capturing moments on the water for over twenty years. I found his gallery in Newport and had a chance to see some of his work on a large scale and loved it. Vibrant, fun and reminding me of the everything I love about the ocean, I am currently shopping for a piece for our house.

You can order his prints online and the smaller sizes are very reasonable. I really loved the large scale stretched canvas prints, everything can be browsed, bought, framed and sent straight to your door. They have such an impact and seem like an investment I would not mind making.

While this art is not going to blow away the critics, I really love photos that capture something dynamic and resonate a memory. I will always remember my trip to Newport and my stumble across the Dutch sailor who loves to take photos. 

Happy Weekend!
xo
Erin

Gift Idea: Funky Keys to Anyone's Heart

We are all lucky enough to be surrounded by people that have things to celebrate. Marriages, babies, new homes, birthdays, graduations, the list is endless and the announcements never end. 

Gifting can be a chore, so I try to scout out new and fun ideas to spice things up from the usual registry or stereotypical items. When I come across a gift idea that I like, I try to take note so I can use it when I receive that next text, email, facebook message, phone call or invitation announcing a new milestone. 

This one caught my eye in the latest InStyle and I think it is such a fun (and inexpensive) idea for gifting a new neighbor or for a housewarming. 

At just five dollars a pop, these Stat Keys will make a great statement to any key chain. Plus, it makes it very easy to recognize what key is for what door.


They keys are delivered form Stat blank, so a quick trip to the hardware store or locksmith will get them cut.


Of course, there is no harm in gifting yourself a couple as well.


Do you have any fun gift ideas that you want to share?


xo
Erin

Having Fun in Pleats

I had so much fun in my Parker pleated dress this weekend. It was fun to dance in, was beyond comfortable and had a great silhouette.

I recently have tried on quite a few pleated skirts as well and have seen quite a few fashionable ladies sporting them in many different ways. 

I like that the skirts can be varying lengths, color is a plus and you can go from prim and proper to downtown chic pretty quick. The different ways these ladies are sporting them just shows their versatility. 


Wear with the t-shirt tucked in for drinks, a blazer to work, your favorite booties for a night out, or with flats for a weekend stroll. They even look great with tights, which we know we will be starting to break out in the next month or two. 


Plus, they are just a fun style that looks great when walking or should I say strutting. 

1. ASOS $73

2. Comme des Garcons $354

3. Topshop $90

4. Halston Heritage $265

5. Nicholas Maisie $290

6. Sparkle & Fade $49

7. Halston Heritage $375

8. A.L.C. $425

xo

Erin 

Weekend Wish & What I am Packing

This weekend I am heading out of town again for my last wedding of 2012. This one is especially exciting because I get to visit Newport, RI, a place I have never been and am seriously excited to check out. 

Oh, and I get to see a friend of almost twenty-five years get married. Lucky for me he met a girl from the East Coast with great taste. It will be a very fun weekend with some high school friends and lots of East Coast charm. 

My weekend wish is that this trip caps off what was a great wedding season and that I have a blast with people I have known for way too long. There will be a serious dance party involved that would probably scare outsiders, but I am looking forward to it. 

With another weekend away, this brings me to another packing challenge. I have gotten pretty good at packing and always plan every outfit in advance so carry on is always an option. My husband loves me for it. 

Here are a few of the pieces I am bringing this weekend. 

1. A comfortable, but cute pleated dress for the wedding by Parker $177 (on sale!)

2. Basic black pumps that will go with anything by Christian Louboutin $375

3. A roomy cross body bag that works for a carry on and day bag by Alexander Wang $780

4. A small gold clutch for evening that fits just enough by Magid $35

5. Black leather jacket for cooler nights. Looks great unzipped. by Elie Tahari $425

6. A printed silk blouse for day or night by Joie $218

7. My fave extra long jeans from Mother with the best wide flare leg $218

8. Great fitting, slightly thicker leggings from J Crew $40

9. Super comfortable moccasins in gray for daytime sight seeing by Minnetonka $40

10. Easiest sweater to throw on when it gets chilly by J Crew $130

Happy Weekend! 

xo

Erin