A Fresh Start

"Cheers to a New Year and another chance for us to get it right".

~ Oprah Winfrey

12 (+1) Days of Wish-mas

Normally on Wednesdays, I try to post weekly or bi-weekly themed-wishlists. But, with Christmas being just 2-days away I thought it would be fun to post my holiday wishlist instead.
This year, I didn't purchase any gifts and don't plan on exchanging ANYTHING. I haven't even treated myself. I'm in the Christmas spirit -- but my wallet isn't.
I like to think that one day, I'll be able to purchase anything I want -- when I want. But till, then here are 12 (plus one for good luck) of the goodies I covet:

1. Alice + Olivia Cocoon Blazer, $525.
2. Burberry Studded Rain Boots, $350
3. Marc Jacob Janice Leather Bag, $1,278
4. Michael Kors Ceramic Watch, $450
5. Theory "Airy Robena" Leather Jacket, $595
6. billybBEAUTY Master Paint Brush Collection, $279
7. Diamond Studded Push Pins, $12.50
8. Tatty Devine Pegasus Earrings, $53.01
9. Joan & David Demille Classic Pumps, $204
10. Top Shop Zip Clutch, $80
11. ModCloth One Line a Day Journal, $16.99
12. Designer Legs Elsa Tights, AU $27.50
13. Free People Ballet Biker Gloves, $38

Celebrate treating (or the desire to) yourself!

Happy Holidays!

CoverGirl: Rips & Sparkle

There are some really awe-inspiring looks that I come across online. I thought I would add a new feature to my blog where I post images of everyday fashion goddesses who inspire me.

{image courtesy of fashionprotege}

I absolutely adore this look. The sparkly sequin blazer matched with the ripped leggings & studded sandals works perfectly. Rocker-chic @ it's finest!

Moxie Monday: Greatness

If you want to achieve greatness, stop asking for permission.

-Unknown

What great things have accomplished lately?

Escapism: Maldives

Come away with me. Today we escape to the Maldives. A location that has been on my travel wish list for way too long. The Maldives are a group of 1190 coral islands and are considered among the most romantic places in the world. Famed for it's rare underwater beauty, it's the perfect place for snorkelers, nature lovers and those who are good at just being lazy on vacation. Like me.

Photos courtesy of Huvafen Fushi

Thulhagiri Resort (Photo courtesy of Beauty in Everything)

Wednesday Wishes: Birds of a Feather

Today I wish for beautiful pieces that embellish the dream of flight.

1. Nordstrom Franchi Feather Frame Clutch, $148
2. Moxsie Triple Pink Feather Necklace, $88
3. Wet Seal Foil Feathers Tee, $6.45

4. Top Shop Feather Skirt by Rare, $118
5. Saks Jimmy Choo Mable Feather-Adorned Biker Sandals, $1,295
6. Need Supply Leather Feather Headband, $24
7. Top Shop Dream Catcher Earrings, $30

Celebrate flying high!

Perfect Holiday (Dress)

It's the 1st day of December ... already! This means holiday cheer and events will be in full swing. Every year, the perfect holiday dress is born. There are two that I spotted that made my heart go thumpity-thump. The first is this Alcee dress on Anthropologie's website. It's sweet and perfect for a more classic affair. It's also simple yet makes a statement with it's origami-like flower situated at the waistband and shimmery pattern dotted along the skirt.

The second is this Island Princess Dress from French Connection. Perfect for a more jazzy affair, like a New Year's Eve party @ the Hudson, rubbing elbows with chic New Yorkers. Picture it. Champagne bubbles tickling your nose as you mingle with other party guests in this sassy number.

Though the price points of the two dresses aren't devastating, I'm in no position to splurge at this point, so I'll have to pass ☹. But, I've come across some other options that will be as light on your wallet as you'll be on your feet at that next holiday soiree!:

1. Amazon Strapless Party Dress w/Polka Dot Net Skirt, $79.99

2. Charlotte Russe Scroll Bow-Tie Dress, $39.99

3. Arden B. Ombre Beaded Tunic Cami, $19.99

4. Alloy Ruffle Party Dress, $42.90

5. Forever 21 Pleated Party Dress, $24.80

6. Oasis Double Peplum Dress, $33

Celebrate holiday festivities!

Obsession Confession: Freckles

I have a somewhat unhealthy obsession with freckles. I've always thought of them as kisses from angels ☺. As a young child, I used to wish I had a smattering of these magical marks on my face.

This obsession may have started with a caretaker at my grandfather's house who I loved as a child. Her name was Rose and she always smelled like cinnamon, oatmeal and fresh soap. She was fair skin with auburn hair and endless freckles on her face. She was super sweet and treated me with the utmost care. That was the start of me associating freckles with beauty.

Images from We Heart It

Celebrate "imperfections"!

Moxie Monday: The Try-Angle

The best angle from which to approach any problem is the try-angle. Don't be afraid of taking an extra step to reach your goals!

What goals have you accomplished lately?

Delectable Designers: Mandate of Heaven

Girly. Whimsical. Fun.

Those were the first words that came to mind when I discovered Mandate of Heaven online. They're definitely the kind of clothes made for the eccentric lover of vintage beauty.

Every piece (with the exception of their Bespoke Denim) is created partially/completely with recycled or vintage materials.

The clothing is quite magical and their Spring 2010 Opiate collection is BRILLIANT:

You can view more of the line here.

Shop them online at Bona Drag or visit their store. Info for their flagship store/studio can be found below:

Mandate of Heaven

406 Lorimer Street @ Stagg

3rd Floor

Brooklyn, NY

Celebrate haute fashion!

Wednesday Wishes: Candy Coat(ed)

Today's post is sponsored by the letters B and R. Brrr!

November is here and with it comes chilly weather, the holidays and mugs full of hot chocolate with endless marshmallows. Today, I wish for chic candy colored coats that provide an even dose of warmth and style:

1. French Connection Military Coat, $279.07

2. Lia Lintern Sofia Coat, $645

3. Dorothy Perkins Pink-Tiered Coats, $122

4. Malene Birger Justinas Jacket, $648

5. Mackage Miley Coat, $620

6. Old Navy Belted-Wool Blend Jacket, $69.50

Celebrate warmth!

Steph

Obsession Confession: Mug Shots

If you know me, you also know about my slight obsession with mugs and teacups. I'll drink almost any beverage (hot or cold) out of a mug. If I'm feeling fancy, I'll even drink it out of a champagne or wine glass. That's just the kind of girl I am!

As if I didn't have enough, I'm always keeping an eye out for these cozy beverage vessels. I like the idea of having mismatched mugs and teacups in the house. Each one tells a story and serves it's own purpose. I've come across a few favorites online that need to make their ways into my home ASAP:

1. BoldLoft "Catch My Love" Couples Coffee Mug, $27: Perfect for sipping hot chocolate on a Sunday while reading NY Times with the hubby.

2. Royal Albert Teacup & Saucers, $129.99: Call the girls over and let's have a tea party! Cucumber finger sandwiches required!

3. Anthropologie Monogrammed Mugs, $7: Pour a steaming cup of hazelnut coffee into these darlings before heading out to run weekend errands.

4. Three Potato Four Cafemug, $22: By far my favorite mug. Complete with a cute little bowl that sits perfectly on top! Cookies and milk, this one's for you.

5. bookofjoe Soup + Crackers Mug, 2 for $14.98: Weekday chili? Don't mind if I do. Just replace those saltines with cornbread, please and thank you.

6. Signals Tea Talk Mug, $9.95: Perfect for keeping on your desk at work.

Celebrate thirst quenchers!

Steph

It's Our Anniversary!

A year ago today, I married my best friend. I remember the ups and downs of wedding planning and the anticipation of counting down the days. October 25, 2008 came and went and we took it all in and labeled it the best day ever.

Now, here we are -- still learning and growing and continuing to make a perfect little life for ourselves as we watch time fly. I couldn't have asked for a better man to be by my side through this journey. So, here's to a fantastic year and to the promise of many more to come!

Happy Anniversary babes!

Food for Thought: Ultra-Thin-Crust Pizza

When I was a kid, I looked forward to the weekends because it was the ONLY time my parent's would order out. Growing up, my mom was always working a full-time job, but managed to cook us wholesome dinners during the week. Eating out or ordering in was definitely a luxury, not a necessity.

Pizza was one of my favorite things to eat -- actually it still is ☺. I remember ordering a pie with my Dad at a local pizza shop when I was about 10 years old and exclaiming that I wanted to move to Italy so I can eat pizza everyday. He just laughed and told me that when I got older, I would probably change my mind about that. What is it about parents that they're always right??

Fast-forward to today. I still do like to try out different restaurants and eat out with my husband, family and friends. But, nothing is more enjoyable to me (with the exception of shopping for new shoes) than trying out new recipes. Particularly the kinds that put a spin on my favorite dishes. So, I thought I'd share this drool-worthy Ultra-Thin-Crust Pizza recipe (found here) that I myself am looking forward to trying in the near future. This one lists onions & mushrooms, but you can always customize it and add your favorite toppings.

So go ahead. Give it a try and enjoy! Just don't forget to save me a slice ☺.

Celebrate cheesy-goodness!
Steph

Recipe courtesy of Elise [via Simply Recipes]

Escapism: Quebec

Come away with me. I used to spend every summer in Canada with my cousins as a kid and as an adult, it's still one of my FAVORITE places to be. It's a beautiful country that has so much to offer and the best part is that it's not too far away.
Today we escape to Quebec. A province in east-central Canada that boasts of romance, arts / culture and great skiing. You can also add great food to the list as it's North America's cradle of French culture. The perfect way to get a mini European-esque vacation in.

Auberge Ripplecove & Spa



Loews Hôtel Vogue, Montreal Canada



Rue Saint-Paul in Old Montreal [via Flickr]

Where do you want to go on your next vacation?

Happy Friday

It's a gloomy Friday on my side of the world, but I don't mind it. I actually like the rain. How else do you get rainbows? :)
I've been slacking on my weekly posts, but hopefully by next week I'll be back on track. I've been a little busy, but things should smooth away soon.

In the meantime, here's my favorite Friday song. I always like to jam to this to get my weekend started. R.I.P Aaliyah :(



What's your weekend song?

Happy Friday!
Steph

Picture This: Harper's Room

In this picture, I see the bedroom of a girl named Harper. She lives on her own in a duplex apartment and enjoys tapping away at the keys of her laptop whenever whimsical ideas strike her. She collects vintage ballet charms and has an obsession with Audrey Hepburn, Pipi Longstocking and photography by Ellen von Unwerth.
Whenever she's feeling blue, she rereads antique issues of Vogue Paris while eating cannoli ice cream straight from the carton. Soft-spoken and endearing, she always smells of clementines and is the type of person that everyone falls in love with.

What do YOU see when you look at this picture?

Wednesday Wishes: Lovely Lingerie

I wish for vintage-inspired lingerie. The kind that brings on sweet dreams, makes me feel like a 1940's movie star and casts a spell on my husband.

1. Kiki de Montparnasse, Silk wrap teddy, $325
2. La Perla, Satin silk-blend robe, $405
3. Journelle, Myla Angelica satin teddy, $360
4. Odille, Ric Rac chemise, $14.40
5. Charlotte Russe, Crochet Chemise, $14.99
6. TopShop, Mirabelle Cami & Short Set, $36

Celebrate bringing sexy back!
Steph

BeautiFULL Clothes

So I lost the battle with this cold I have been fighting. It got the best of me, and rendered me helpless today. I laid in bed surrounded by balled up tissues and the sounds of daytime TV keeping me company. Once I was out of my Tylenol Warming Cough & Sore Throat haze, I decided to sit my achy body up and catch up on some DVR'd (man's greatest invention) episodes of one of my favorite shows -- Mad Men.

It's no secret. I love this show to pieces. The clothes, the era, the scandal -- it's all so . . . delicious! But, one of the main reasons I watch it (besides the super dreamy Don Draper) is for my girl crush fix, Joan Holloway. She represents what REAL women look like with her hypnotic hips and chic wardrobe. She's just so fabulous to me:

... And this is where I got the inspiration for today's post. Everywhere you look, you'll find super slim models and celebrities who aren't accurate representations of what the average woman looks like. So, I thought I would do a little digging online and find some chic, stylish clothing options for the plus-sized beauty. Here are a few cute pieces that I came across:

1. Veronique Dress in Berry, $136
2. Gloria Dress, $102
3. Glen Cowl Tunic, $58
4. Animal Print 2 in 1 Dress, $50.96
5. Cutwork Trim Top, $46.97
6. Purple Printed Longline Top, $55.73

A mix of dressy and casual looks that can be accentuated with jewelry and swanky accessories or a killer fitted leather motorcycle jacket. Who says you can be full and fabulous?

Celebrate your curves!
Steph

Food for Thought: Carrot Cake Ice Cream

Total time: 1 hour, plus chilling and freezing time
Servings: Makes 1 quart
Recipe courtesy of David Lebovitz [via LA Times ]

I'm not a HUGE fan of carrot cake, but I know so many people who are. Fall is a great time to start dusting off those recipe books and indulging in some comfort food. Try this modern spin on a chilled creamy classic.

SPICED PECANS:

1 cup pecan halves
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Toss the pecans with the butter.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, cloves, brown sugar and salt. Pour the mixture over the pecans and toss to coat completely.

3. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and cook for 12 minutes, gently stirring halfway during baking to candy the nuts. Remove the tray to a rack and cool the nuts completely. Once cool, coarsely chop the pecans. Set aside.

CURRANTS:

1/4 cup dried currants
2 tablespoons whiskey

1. In a small saucepan, heat the currants and whiskey until boiling. Simmer until the currants have absorbed almost all of the liquid. Remove from heat and cover the pan. Set aside to cool completely.

CANDIED CARROTS:

2 cups finely diced carrots
2/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
2 cups water

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the carrots, sugar, corn syrup and water. Bring to a low boil and cook until the syrup is reduced to about 2 tablespoons and the carrots are translucent and candied, 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the carrots during the last few minutes so they do not burn. Drain the carrots and set aside to cool.

ICE CREAM BASE & ASSEMBLY:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese
1 1/2 cups sour cream (regular or low-fat)
2/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon chopped lemon zest
Spiced pecans
Currants
Candied carrots

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, or in a large bowl using a hand mixer, blend together the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar and lemon zest until smooth. Chill thoroughly.

2. Freeze the base in an ice cream maker. After churning, gently fold in the spiced pecans, soaked currants and candied carrot cubes. Freeze until firm.

Each one-half cup serving: 485 calories; 5 grams protein; 51 grams carbohydrates; 3 grams fiber; 30 grams fat; 14 grams saturated fat; 54 mg. cholesterol; 173 mg. sodium.

Enjoy!

Moxie Monday: Go Ahead, Cry

Crying doesn't indicate that you're weak. Since birth, it has always been a sign that you're alive.
So go ahead, cry. I won't tell anyone : )

Celebrate your need to release!
Steph

Escapism: Wyoming

Come away with me. Today we escape to Wyoming, home of Yellowstone National Park and the majestic Grand Teton.
The tenth largest U.S. state, Wyoming is the perfect place for couple retreats, ski enthusiasts or pure relaxation.

Amangani Resort in Jackson Hole, WY

Sunset in Oxbow Bend, WY [via Flickr]

Where do you want to go on your next vacation?

Gossip Girl: "A Nasty Piece of Work"

Tonight, is the season premiere of one of my FAVORITE TV shows, Gossip Girls!
Can I get a whoot-whoot?!

TV is definitely not as good as it used to be, so when I find something I like, I'm happy as a clam.Watching shows like GG reminds me of the juicy dramas I used to watch with my Mom back when I was a wee little gal. Dallas anyone?
The CW definitely hit the mark with this show ... and remember the ad campaigns that they ran last year? They literally took quotes from all of the nay-sayers and coupled the text with saucy screen shots from the show. In case you needed to be reminded:

One word: GENIUS. I'm a sucker for great advertising.
Oh, how I've missed the scandalous drama that occurs between our beloved Upper East Siders.
Are you guys ready? I am.

WTF (Watch this Fall)

You know you love me.
XOXO. Birthday a la Mode.

Celebrate a little drama!
Steph

Delectable Designers: Lorick

I discovered this designer by accident and it was such a beautiful surprise.
The new collection makes me think of what one would wear to chic cocktail parties in Paris or after-work dinners with friends in Italy. The vibe is so European and sophisticated and I love it!

You may have noticed some of Abigail Lorick's pieces on Gossip Girl. They played the role of Eleanor Waldorf's runway collection.

GG fans, remember these beauties?:

Elle

And are you kidding me? These are from her Fall '09 collection:

Photography by Tom Hines

Delicious!

Her line is only 2-years old, but Abigail Lorick is definitely making a name for herself. See more of her masterpieces here. Definitely out of my budget, but so pretty to look at!

Celebrate haute fashion!
Steph