2.28.2013

Master (Bedroom) Plan

It still feels like there is so much to do at the house, like an endless list that I will never get to the bottom of. We have an empty living room, a dark hallway that is in desperate need of light, door knobs that need to be installed, runners to be picked out, a barren guest room, and on and on. I have settled on that fact that this will all take years. And it is okay. 

The one room that needs attention next, since we use it every single day, is the master bedroom. We have lived without a headboard and the furniture we brought with us since June. With just a few more pieces and some paint, the room will finally become more like home to us. I have been looking at many, many pictures on Pinterest to settle on a room that mixes our already masculine furniture with some softer touches. I like rooms to have that mix and it only seems fitting for the master. 

Here is the finished product, or at least a mock of what it will look like. I hope. 


Already owned: the dressers, bench, rug, and lamps. 

What I need to get: coral trimmed bedding, tufted nailhead headboard, Gray Shower Benjamin Moore paint

I wanted a moody color on the walls since the attached bath is all white with white marble counters. Those gray boxes are actually windows. The rug was the old one from the family room and I love how it looks with the dark floors. For just a slight punch of color, I love coral with the gray and navy. 

What do you think? Should I stick with these choices? It is not that much to get, but pulling the trigger is so hard! 

xo
Erin 


2.27.2013

Oscar After Party Inspiration

So many of the After Party Oscar dresses were in my opinion, better than the actual red carpet. 


After Anne's not-so-great-Prada, this chic column looks fresh and fun. The ultimate ice queen, Natalie, is gorgeous in Dior. Jennifer put her party dress on to celebrate her win. And Nina Debrov, who has been killing it lately, looks so chic in graphic black and white. 

Then, there is the queen of the carpet herself, Diane. 


Black and white is a huge trend for Spring and this shape is all kinds of amazing. Clearly only she could ever wear this and pull it off, but she is flawless per usual. 

A small black and white print is a great, versatile way to add to your closet for Spring. Plus, it really works all year round. While we wish we could have Diane's frock, there are some more accessible options around. 


From left: Topshop $76, Three Floor $262, Theory $285, Asos $50

The tunic would be perfect belted with wedges and a statement necklace. I am obsessed with the silhouette of the Three Floor dress, so flirty and flattering. Ikat is not only sweet for your house, this print shows how you can wear it anytime. The chevron dress is a great way to look hot on date night. 

You going back and white anytime soon? 
xo
Erin 

2.26.2013

First Birthday Party


We did a test run on his actual birthday with a brownie and he was so mesmerized by the candle. Obviously he was not sure about this getting older thing. 

For his birthday party my Mom went all out baking. With the family business in construction, this picture as inspiration, and some amazing finds from Amazon, Grandma seriously out did herself. 


The little rocks are actually yummy chocolates and the tool picks were adorable. 



This cake blew me away. Grandma has skills. The "dirt" is crushed Oreos and the cones are actually candles


As if making the cake was not enough, she put together these beautiful flower arrangements. 


How pretty are the tangerines on the bottom. Easy fix to place the stems in between. 


I found some cute fabric bunting on Etsy that can be used over and over again. 



The birthday sign is from Target. Who by the way has the cutest mix and match paper plates, tablecloths, and napkins. 


Birthday hard hats. Yep, grandma thought of everything. 


He was not that into his cake, but made a decent dent. 


It was such a fun party and the best start to his next great year. 

He loves lounging in his new bean bag. I figured he would be spoiled with so many toys from family, a place to rest and have a bottle would be nice. 


Little man is getting way too big. 

xo
Erin 


2.25.2013

Oscars 2013: Best, Worst, and the In Between

The red carpet was pretty fantastic last night. The show was even good. What was up with E! only being able to to do red carpet interviews for like half an hour? It turned into a Super Bowl halftime report. ABC apparently locked out everyone else so they could show off Kelly Rowland's amazing interview skills. 

There were two clear stand out ladies last night. The Best of my Best list...


Jennifer's dress was the perfect color, fit her beautifully (she looks rocking), the hair is gorgeous, and that necklace deserves a best dressed all on its own. The ruffles down the back were so pretty. Naomi killed it in Armani Prive. It was clearly made for her and she seriously turned it out. I love the soft hair with the severity of the dress and simple jewelry. 

The rest of my Best Dressed list includes...


Jessica looked gorgeous. Nothing surprising, but the beading made it special. 
Obsessed with this look from Samantha Banks from Les Mis. Simple, young and that necklace was amazing. 
Reese's return to the Oscars in Burberry was flattering and a great color. 
I cannot believe that Halle made my best list, but she nailed it in Versace. Back to being that Bond girl.  
Kerry's dress looked even better on TV. The color was so pretty and so was the beading on top. 
I do not love Stacy's hair, but this dress was gorgeous, covered in metal beading. 
Zoe's dress also looked a bit better on TV, the fit, bodice and bow was different, in a good way. 
I knew we would see this Marchesa somewhere and Olivia looks perfect in it. 

I like to call this my Eh list. While these ladies no doubt look beautiful and their dresses are pretty, they probably could have done better in my opinion. 


Nicole's hair is great with this dress, which I am not the biggest fan of and cannot put my finger on why exactly. 
Charlize's dress looks like Anne's from the globes. While pretty, it could have been better, right? 
Anne! Come on lady. You can do better than this! The color is pretty, so is her make up and the necklace, but I could not get past the nipple action and how much like an apron this looked like. 
Sandra's dress was pretty, but maybe too old for her? And that bag was way off. 
Jennifer was too predictable. Again, looks great, but I think there is another Dior that does not look like something she has already worn.
Amy looks pretty in tulle, per usual. 
Jennifer departed from her usual color and silhouette, which is great, but we have seen this dress before and she is better than this. 

And now, the worst.....


I have NO CLUE how Brandi Glanville got to the Oscars, but this just gives Bravo a bad name and I do not like it. Put your boobs away! 
Selma is so small that this dress looks like it is strangling her. It would look amazing on Charlize, Nicole, or one of the other mannequin ladies of the carpet. 
Kristen's dress does not fit, her hair is a mess and her general look of discomfort is getting old. 
Renee forgot what time her car was picking her up and did not have time to wash her hair, or get it colored. The dress color washes her out and the bracelets confuse me more than anything. 
Amanda, I had such high hopes for you all season. You only dazzled me a couple of times and then this. The choker halter top is just such not a great look, unless you are headed to a frat party circa 2000. The fabric and color is so pretty, but it does not make up for that neckline. 

There were really not that many misses last night. Even the guys looked good. Bradley Cooper could have used less hair gel, but he is fine enough to forgive him for that. 

In closing, I just have to ask, was Melissa's hair a joke I was not in on? Or was the top down on the way to the ceremony? Love you girl, but wowza. 


xo
Erin 






2.22.2013

Spring Break Fever

Spring Break does not stop when you graduate from school. The desire to get out of town at the end of a long winter stays with you forever. Or at least until you can live the dream of being a snow bird. Here's to that. 

My Spring Break starts a week from today and I literally almost cried when Matt told me we were headed South for a week. It gets me in such a mood for pastels with pops of brights and neons. 

1. Cute nautical flips from the Gap $16
2. I own these J. Crew shorts, classic $79
3. Minty nail polish from Butter $15
4. A switch from the standard white jean from J Brand $176
5. These Karen Walker glasses have such a fun shape $220
6. Pretty and vintage tulle suit from J. Crew Top $60 Bottom $56
7. From carry on to beach bag from Gap $94
8. Love the mix of leathers on these Cynthia Vincent sandals $195
9. Cute print for dinners out by Pencey $225 
10. A little lucite and neon by CC Skye $255
11. Can't go wrong with embellished frogs from  J. Crew $98
12. A classic drapey tank to wear with everything J. Crew $24
13. For day or night, pleated maxi by Sabine $59

Hope your winter includes a break too. Unless you live in the warmth, then I envy you for being able to wear all of this year round.  
xo
Erin 

2.21.2013

Lost Ten Pounds

I wish it was in the way that would mean all my pants fit, but it was actually in the form of a hair cut. My hair had turned into a long wig-like mop that while great for throwing up into a messy bun, was more of a pain in the ass then it was cute. 


I also had these strange chunks all around my face and neck that were pieces growing back after losing my hair after the bebe. A shorter cute with more layers helps conceal that while they grow. 

Just enough bang action that it is not annoying and still long enough to easily put in a pony. One day in and I still like it. 

xo
Erin 


2.19.2013

Slow Cooker

Do you have a slow cooker? I am thinking of getting one, but not sure if I would like it. I have seen some delicious recipes on Pinterest that have sparked my motivation to get one. How big of one should I get and what is the best one? I would love your advice! Any favorite recipes? 

Deb from Smitten became a convert and made this delicious recipe


Can't wait to hear your thoughts and share your recipes. 
xo
Erin 

2.18.2013

Currently Obsessed

I am deep in cabin fever/wintertime dullness/complete loss of creativity. I need a change in schedule here, which is happening tomorrow with my parents coming for a visit, the little man's first birthday, and an unexpected vacay to the warm sun. I may not be writing as frequently during this time, but when I do find something great to share I promise to get on it. Writing for all of you is honestly what helps spur my creativity, but during this February slump it is hard to come up with anything fun. 

When things become pretty Groundhog Day-ish, I feel like I get obsessed with certain things and stick to them. It could be a food, or tv show, a new blog, or a beauty routine, but I see myself obsessed with a few things right now I thought I would share. 

ModelCo Fibre Lashxtend Mascara 

This mascara came in my Birchbox a few months back and I LOVE it. I like to curl my lashes and then brush on a few light coats during the day. It is light and looks so natural, yet it mimics the effect of false lashes. The perfect daytime mascara. It has little fibers that stick to the ends of your lashes and extends them. Genius. 

Creamy Macaroni & Cheese

I had a childhood love of Velveeta shells and cheese. I wanted to find a recipe that was closer to from scratch then from a box. This recipe is by no means healthier or even that much better (It includes a can of cheddar cheese soup, still processed), but the fact that I know what goes in it, makes me feel better. It is creamy and delicious. I have made it a few times and it is perfect on a cold day. 

Buttermilk Pancakes

The little guy can eat pancakes now, which is a great excuse to start the day with syrup. This recipe from Matha Stewart is perfection. I have it on heavy rotation. 

Downton Abbey


Duh. If you are not watching this show, get on it. If you are into TV "binges" this is the perfect way to spend a cold weekend. 

And I hate to admit this, but I still watch the Bachelor. Have seen every season, have watched all the tears, all the "journeys," wasted hours and hours of my time, but I cannot help to love this show and Chris Harrison. 

This is Sean, the 407th Bachelor. He is looking for his wife and is not afraid to tell everyone, then dump her "After the Final Rose" airs. 


Check out Melissa's weekly recaps on her blog, Fonty Fest. They are hilarious and so right on. 

Speaking of sites to visit, Sous Style is one of the newest on my Bookmark list. 

Home. Cooking. Rad interviews. A little of everything and totally worth the time suck. 

Lastly, the sweet treat you need to get a bag of and keep at your desk this week. 

Watermelon Sour Patch Kids


And that pretty much sums up my life right now. Food and entertainment. Do you need anything more? 

Have a happy week. xo
Erin 







2.15.2013

NYFW Fall 2013: All The Good Stuff

I have been following my favorite style mavens (Mira, Lily, LSD, Vivi) on Instagram, it kind of makes me feel like I am at fashion week. With them. Sitting front row. Gabbing about the tweeds at Proenza or the vibrant colors at DVF. This helps me feel like I could be there, even though I am far, far away. In leggings. Hair barely brushed. On my couch. Clicking through each look on style.com. Maybe one day. Until then, I enjoy seeing what is ahead for Fall and picking out dresses that could make an appearance at the Oscars. I actually got through almost all the shows and picked my favorites and the looks that I would love in my closet. Still dreaming, right? Here is a review of what you missed. 


Sick coats at Altruzara. 



Tweeds, chain link, and the best shoes were at Proenza Schouler. 


Carolina Herrera channeled Marlene Dietrich. Gorgeous. 


I wish I had a place to wear cable knit and silk. Both of the gowns are Oscar contenders. 


Diane was the only one who used tons of color. That jumpsuit is kind of awesome. The silk pantsuit is so Binca Jagger, and I want it. 


Pretty, yet fierce at Derek Lam. 


Any of these gowns would look gorgeous at the Oscars. 


If I had a fur coat, I would want it to be this massive one from Jason Wu. That dress would look so pretty underneath. 


We know how the ladies love Marchesa for the red carpet. I worship the white one, but not sure it is dressy enough. 


The emerald print is beyond. 


A collection where every piece could fit into your life. And if only it was. 


The orange print at ODLR has been haunting me, I LOVE it. Someone will be wearing this pink brocade next Sunday. 


Cables and maxis. Into it. Ralph honestly could get me to wear one of those hats I think, too. 


Two more options from Zac. The pink is almost too sweet, so someone like Amy Adams has to be wearing it. Love the pleats with the satin structure. 


70s Collegiate Socialites at Rachel Zoe. I want that green coat, like mad. 


Love the military green. The jacket is sweet and the silk dress is pretty and femme, but just enough. 


And finally, there was Marc. The show was dramatic and gorgeous. Pjs, sequins, fur, and shags. My favorite of all. 


What shows were your favorite? 
Happy Weekend. 
xo
Erin 



2.14.2013

Treat Yourself

There is nothing wrong with a little something sweet on Valentine's Day. The feminine flirt of a scalloped edge is just enough for a girlie look. Mix with something harder or classic to keep from going overboard. 

1. Lacey shorts from Free People $78
2. Worship these sweet flats from J. Crew $158
3. Minty cross body bag from Asos $43
4. Ridiculous Herve Leger skirt, love $790
5. Love this bikini from Topshop $60
6. A roomy tote from Asos $131
7. Shift dress by Lotusgrace $395 
8. Perfection for the pool by Marysia Swim $255
9. Simple and sweet iPhone case from Anthropologie $28

Hope you have a lovely day! 
xo
Erin 

2.13.2013

Dinner Menu for V-Day, Or Any Night

Though I love a great bouquet delivered to my door, Valentine's Day is not really a holiday that I look forward to. Going out for dinner on this day of mushy love is like going out on New Year's Eve. It feels like amateur hour and it all seems a little forced. Making dinner at home for your love, your family, your friends, whomever is coming to your table, sounds so much better. I put together this super simple and easy menu for Cheeky. It takes a little help from the market with some premade items. Honestly, the menu comes together in much less than an hour and your guests will think you slaved. 

Ricotta & Rosemary Crostini with Honey


Shrimp & Cherry Tomato Pasta with Pesto


Strawberry Shortcake


All the recipes can be found on Cheeky. You will be amazed at just how simple it is, and how short the grocery list is. 

Happy Cooking. And Valentine's Day. 
xoxo
Erin 



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