Black and Brown
While I'm all for a good over the knee boot I've found myself more often-than-not wanting to take a break and grab something with a little less 'length'. So when I spotted these Carlo Pazolini booties, I knew they were exactly what the doctor ordered. First, you can never have enough black boots in your closet and second, I love the zipper detail along the back of the shoe, it's just too perfect for when you just need that extra pop. I think they went perfectly with this tulle skirt and {contrasting} moto jacket, am I right?
Spring Stripes
I snagged this dress a couple of weeks ago in the hopes of an early spring but it would seem the reality of the just over a month left of winter had me feeling a little bit discourage when it came to wearing it. However, I quickly realized that it was the perfect contender for a simple lesson in layering. Sure, you've seen me throw my sweaters over my dress, but now it was time to add a layer or two under my dress for some Pre-Spring wear.
Red Leopard
I know I've worn this leopard dress quite a few times in the last year but I think it's pretty safe to say I had good reason. I mean, the comfort alone makes this one of my favorite wears. Which is probably why I stuck to this combination last week while in the mountains, easy and effortless. It's practically an exact match to this outfit spotted earlier this month.
Sweater CWonder, Dress ASOS, Gloves Nordstrom Rack, Bag BagINC, Boots DSW
Boots No7 Protect and Perfect ADVANCED Serum Review & Giveaway
For me, serums are kind of my save all. My skin is far too temperamental for heavy cream or moisturizer use on a regular basis. I usually end up with the opposite results and a "cute" little breakout on my cheek or chin, and if I'm really lucky, both. So, serums are pretty much my go to, but let's be real not all serums are created equally. I've found that some are super oily, too expensive ($120, what!), or just not fitting the bill. I mean, it happens with all beauty products, you have to find that one that you love, right?
So, when (the UK's #1 beauty brand) Boots No7 's new advanced serums came on the scene a couple months back I was intrigued by the Matrixyl3000 Plus formulations, combining a powerful form of Matrixyl and next generation peptides that work together giving you more youthful looking skin in just four weeks. Plus for under $25 (at Target, no less) I would gladly toss my current serum in favor for this. And since it's quickly become the UK's fastest selling anti-aging serum (and kind of a phenomenon with one selling every 10 seconds), I had to at least try it, right?
I opted to try the Protect and Perfect Advanced Serum since I find myself occasionally having to fight break outs, especially when trying new products. The serum goes on smooth and feels heavenly on my skin, not at all greasy or heavy. I've gradually moved up to using it twice a day over the last week and a half (so no huge results just yet). But, I will say my skin feels much more hydrated and dare I say, happy. I'm definitely interested to see what the next few weeks have in store for my fine lines...
Want to try the Boots No7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Serum for yourself? I'm teaming up with Boots No7 to give one lucky ready the chance to try it out for themselves! (Enter Below -->) If you're ready to shop them now, get $2 off at Target.com with "BOOTSIBOX"
{if you have issues entering, reach out so I can troubleshoot!}
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Boots No 7 via Burst Media. The opinions and text are all mine.
Black and Navy
I've been itching to wear this Darling jacket for a couple of weeks now, but the weather has been less than favorable. Finally I got the chance when temperatures finally {briefly} rose long enough for me to get day of wear out of this beauty while in the mountains last week. I'm kind of obsessed with the navy and black window pane with the wide collar, it's too good to keep cooped up in my closet.
New Orleans: 10 Spots To Dine & Drink
Last Month I shared what to see and do while visiting New Orleans. So, as we wrap up my trip this month, it's all about the culinary adventure that is New Orleans. The southern, cajun and creole infused flavors sweep the city in various styles, each with their own authentic flare. New Orleans not only carries incredible history and culture but it is also the birthplace of the very first cocktail, as well as the the famous desserts, Bananas Foster and beignets.
Your New Orleans experience isn't quite complete without channeling your inner foodie as you sample fried alligator, sip on decadently crafted cocktails or take your very first bites of an exotic dish. It's hard to leave the Crescent City without adding an extra inch or two to your waistline. But there's no experience like it.
As you begin to plan your travels, I've helped narrow things down a bit with my 10 {favorite} Spots To Dine and Drink in New Orleans.
1. Loa Bar at International House
One of the amazing perks of staying at boutique hotel, International House was the exotic Loa Bar downstairs. Led by "Spirit Handler" Alan Walter, who brings his own fresh take to perfectly infused craft cocktails in the Downtown New Orleans bar. Walter's creates his own syrups, tinctures and aromatic bitters from locally harvested ingredients, on site. Each served in a vintage stemware piece from his own curated collection.
Cocktail To Try: Pearly Gates Or Bay Leaf
Image Credit: International House Hotel
2. Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel
Named after the world famous cocktail, the Sazerac Bar carries just as much history as it's potable namesake. Set yourself up on an elegant bar stool and order up the one and only, Sazerac. When in Rome New Orleans, right?
Cocktail To Try: The Sazerac
3. Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
Take a spin on the famous Carousel Bar located in Hotel Monteleone. Channeling your inner {whimsical} child while sipping craft cocktails on the 25-seat, bright, circus-clad Merry-Go-Round immortalized by the writings of Earnest Hemingway.
Cocktail To Try: Old New Orleans Perfect Storm & Fluer Des Lis
Image Credit: Hotel Monteleone
4. Carrollton Market
Our first meal was spent at the modern Southern restaurant brought to life by Chef Jason Goodenough in the New Orleans' Riverbend Neighborhood. Carrollton Market, quickly swept us off our feet with unique, decadent southern flavors. The always evolving menu offers everything from Veal Sweet Breads {which I tried for the very first time, and loved} to a fresh take on Pan Roasted American Red Snapper. Each dish put it's own spin on traditional New Orleans culinary traditions.
What I Loved: Veal Sweet Breads, House Made Gnocchi with Braised Oxtail, and Pan Roasted Scallops. Dessert: Peanut Butter Pie & Chocolate Pot De Creme.
Image Credit: Richard Melick
5. Brennan's New Orleans
Famously known as the birthplace of the delicious Banana's Foster, Brennan's decadent menu offers a wide range of creole and contemporary New Orleans fusion. Go for the glamourous dining experience in one of their 8 sophisticated dining rooms or simply treat your taste buds to the art form that is Bananas Foster.
What I Loved: {Brunch Favorites} Baked Apple, Egg Yolk Carpaccio, Eggs Sardou & Obviously, Bananas Foster.
Cocktail To Try: Brandy Milk Punch
Image Credit: Richard Melick
6. Cochon
If you're looking for traditional Cajun Southern dishes, Cochon is the place for you. Where locals and visitors alike flock for authentic cajun flavor in a rustic, yet contemporary setting. Head next door to Cochon Butcher and pick up some of their famous Boudin on the way out.
What I Loved: Braised Ham Hock with Sweet Potato Puree & Brussel Sprouts, Macaroni and Cheese, Rabbit and Dumplings. Dessert: Butterscotch Pudding.
7. Muriel's
Located in the heart of Jackson Square, Muriel's offers contemporary creole cuisine in one of the most historic buildings in New Orleans. Aside from having the best damn gator in town, they have their very own ghost. Head in for a quick bite or wander up to The Séance to celebrate the mystery and character of Muriel's.
What I Loved: Alligator, Gorgonzola Cheesecake, Crawfish and Goat Cheese Crepes, & Shrimp and Grits
Cocktail To Try: Pimms Cup
8. Arnaud's
On our last night on the town we were treated to the fine dining experience that is Arnaud's. I found myself enamored with the romantic setting in the Jazz Bistro where we were serenaded with Dixieland Jazz as we sipped our elegant cocktails and sampled the menu. I quickly fell in love with the hearty, flavor rich Turtle Soup and melt in your mouth Speckled Trout Meuniére.
What I Loved: Turtle Soup & Speckled Trout Meuniére
Cocktail To Try: French 75 & Café Brûlot
9. Cafe Du Monde
An obvious choice when it comes to planning any trip to New Orleans is world famous Cafe Du Monde. Their beignets & Café Au Lait are a must before adventuring out into Jackson Square or the French Market. I wont judge you if you insist on eating there every day of your trip.
What I Loved: Beignets & Café Au Lait
10. Nola Po Boy
Richard {from FactoryTwoFour} and I randomly stumbled upon this place while wandering bourbon street before our flight and quickly realized that this was exactly what our taste buds were missing throughout the week. Don't let the casual dining experience fool you, these are probably the best Po Boys I've ever had.
What I Loved: Fried Oyster Po Boy {spicy, but oh so good.}
Now, you're officially ready to pack your suitcase and head down south for an experience like no other...
To book your trip to New Orleans, visit VisitNewOrleans.com.This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of New Orleans Convention and Visitor's Bureau. The opinions and text are all mine.
Houndstooth and Leopard
As far as my Fashion Week style goes I've stuck {more or less} with one general silhouette when it comes to my looks for the week. It's no secret that I favor the full midi silhouettes so when I was putting together my outfits for the few days at the tents I found myself picking the same types of styles, but putting them together in very different ways (well, aside from the constant wear of my favorite moto jacket). This time I stepped things up a little and added some bold prints and textures to give the entire look a more eclectic feel. The houndstooth, leopard and fury monster bag just fell into place without an ounce of effort. It's bright, fun and still put together. Which means this might just be my favorite look season...(it definitely rivals this one and this one as far as fashion week style goes.)
Skirt Chicwish, Shirt and Jacket Lulus.com, Boots DSW (ON SALE!), little Monster Bag Ms. Littles Bag (OBSESSED), Gloves Nordstrom Rack, Earrings Sterling Forever
Check My Heart Skirt
I think it's safe to say that this skirt is kind of a show stopper. The sheer heart overlay paired with the gingham makes it's perfectly adorable and an easy favorite in my book. Obviously I had to up the lady like game with my polka dot sock and red lip but I think it would do perfectly fine taken in an edgier route in the near future.
NYFW Fall 2015 Day One : BCBGMaxAzria, Costello Tagliapietra & Desigual
Last Thursday kicked off the final season of Fashion Week at the Lincoln Center. While it may be bittersweet for most, I'm definitely on board to see where things end up going and how the events continue to evolve throughout the seasons. Since this month has decided to be the bearer of the worst of our winter weather getting dressed wasn't entirely my favorite part of the day but I ended up making things easier and opting for this look {with fleece lined leggings pushed up to my knees to make them invisible}. It was a definite win.
So, off to the tents I went. After sitting in what seemed like hours of traffic I found myself a little too late for Nicolas K and just in time for BCBG Max Azria. As the lights rose, the show began with flowing cream and brown palettes that quickly transitioned into a bright collection of well placed layers, flawlessly padded jackets and impeccably embroidered pieces. It was a glamourous bohemian dream that I'd only hope to fill my Fall closet with. So it comes as no secret that it has won me over this season and has me on the hunt for lots of fringe and the perfect culottes.
Trend Report: Culottes, Fringe, Fur, Turtlenecks, Leather, Mixed Media (Embroidered Panels and Fur), OTK Boots, Color, Camel
Next up, I went into the woods Costello Tagliapietra for a menswear inspired collections of eye catching colors and beautifully placed plaid. I personally favored the masculine meets feminine pairings and fell in the love with the suspenders, naturally.
Trend Report: Menswear, Tailored, Plaid, Color.
And finally, the most colorful of the the day has to come from Desigual, who never disappoints when it comes to adding bold colors and prints to the always playful collections. It would seem that color is on the list for fall 2015, and I'm totally ok with that.
Fashion Week Ready with smartwater
This post was sponsored by smartwater through their partnership with Mode Media. While I was compensated to write about smartwater, all opinions are my own.
Last week I showed you the best ways to do NYFW on a budget and a first glance at one of my {potentially favorite} fashion week looks. Which means today is all about getting Fashion Week ready. It’s here! This season I’m teaming up with the official hydrator of New York Fashion Week, smartwater to share how I get ready for the week ahead and how I stay inspired through the chaos.
Truth be told, things have gotten a lot easier when it comes to Fashion Week prep now that we live in NYC. No more running to catch flights, having to scurry to find a hotel room, or my least favorite task, packing a suitcase. But let’s be real, it doesn’t get me off the hook for planning and getting myself and schedule organized before I set foot on the steps of Lincoln Center.
As far as getting my schedule ready, I start a couple weeks in advance and clear my schedule for shows I don’t want to miss. At first glance staring at my computer all afternoon is a snoozefest, but after I scroll through the last season’s shows I’m immediately inspired to look ahead and forecast what they might send down the runway this season. Are they going to stick to the same silhouettes or are they going to go for a bolder print? Some designers are pretty easy to predict, but others catch me off guard every.single.time. It becomes less of a task and more of a way to get creative.
I will admit that I almost miss the finalization of having a suitcase, no matter how unorganized or heavy it was. More often than not I’ve found myself the day of, an hour before the show, standing in an enormous pile of clothes with the pain of indecision. It’s inevitable. But, I have learned how to somewhat control it when I pull inspiration ahead of time. I’ve started looking at what I loved from the runways or what street styles caught my eye and compare it to what I already have in my closet. I pick a silhouette or print I love and build up from that. I lay out a few options before and pick the winner the day of, keeping my clothes explosion to a minimum. I always try to step out of my style comfort zone at least once or twice throughout the week, it is Fashion Week after all.
Where do you get your fashion inspiration and stay inspired with your everyday habits?
Don’t forget to check out how some of Fashion Week’s top designers as they share about staying inspired in the video below!
This story is brought to you by vapor-distilled smartwater, who found unique inspiration for their water by looking up to the sky. We hope the new perspective this piece offers will help inspire you.