Saturday, November 30, 2013

Gearing up for Cyber Monday

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving, ate lots of delicious food (diets don't exist on holidays), and survived Black Friday if you were brave enough to venture out! As for myself, I had a wonderful Thanksgiving and it isn't even over quite yet! It was great getting to catch up with loved ones that I don't often get to see and spending some much needed quality time with some of my favorite people on earth. Oh, and the food wasn't bad either. I somehow managed to eat three different kinds of pie (including a much lauded family peanut butter pie) and still have one more T-day dinner to go! 

I'm pretty happy with my decision to stay in on Black Friday (but I am certainly not judging those that shopped, way to go out and get those amazing deals!), mostly due to the fact that I'm waiting for the deals that are sure to come on Cyber Monday! I know that I often post about totally beautiful but for many (myself included) unattainable due to lavish prices. So for those of us out there that are addicted to internet shopping I'm compiling a list of some of my favorite items (and many I have been eyeing for myself) that won't leave you crying into your wallet. Now lets get ready for Monday! 


1. Jewel Scent

As the name suggests, there is a ring valued anytwhere from $10-$7500 inside of each candle, soap, or aromatic beads. While most rings are worth $10, the chance of being a lucky one and scoring a $500+ ring definitely makes me want to buy! Also, who can resist a great smelling candle or soap?
2. Brooks Brothers Bow Tie
You really can't go wrong with a classic bow tie from BB and with many color and pattern combinations available you are sure to find a tie to suit every man on your list! $55-65

I think the product description says it all when it says, "Yale doesn't like people that say Y'all. We showed them...." Even though the site sells Kentucky based products I think everyone can appreciate this fun and cozy sweatshirt. $50
4. Philosophy Shampoo, Shower Gel, and Bubble Bath

While you really can't go wrong with anything Philosophy makes, I really love the shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath combos, especially for the price right now ($10 regularly $16). I haven't tried the Snow Angel scent but like everything they have I'm sure it smells divine and puts me in the holiday spirit! I am addicted to the Mimosa scent and I love that they put a totally delicious sounding recipe for mimosas right on the bottle. If the recipe is as good as the sudsy stuff smells then I might have just found my new favorite drink.  

5. J. W. Hulme Co Woolrich Stocking
While the $95 price tag is a little pricier than many of the items on this list the quality construction and handsome look make this stocking worth it. Imagine all the memories that will be made when this stocking is opened year after year and J.W. Hulme Co is dedicated to the making that happen as they offer a lifetime guarantee on the item.  

6. Dot by Marc Jacobs

With notes of jasmine, coconut water, and orange blossom this scent makes the wearer feel instantly happier. A fresh and fun fragrance plus cute and whimsical packaging? It's not too good to be true.  
7. The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook



This is definitely one the items on my list that I really want myself. Not only have I been to England and really enjoyed the food but I also am a huge fan of the show. Give this to anyone (or yourself) who regularly quotes Dowager Countess Grantham or has professed love for Mathew Crawley. $15.96



8. Box Wood Tree Glass Terrarium


This handmade terrarium would be the perfect gift for anyone you know with a green thumb. The sleek glass and copper design adds artsy sophistication to any decor and you can feel good knowing you are purchasing from a small artisan shop. $55

This hat would be the perfect way to stay warm and stylish with its cute bow and vintage shape. How very Great Gatsby of you. $68


As someone who just had to replace my iphone due to a shattered screen I can vouch for the value of keeping one in a case. This cute cover from Kate Spade allows you to keep your phone protected without sacrificing style. $40 

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Thom Browne Fall 2013 Ready to Wear

I couldn't help but throw another Thom Browne post your way. His stuff is too good not be obsessed with and therefore make others obsessed too. This ready to wear collection takes on a more of a whimsical vibe than the looks in my previous Thom Browne post but still maintains his feminine take on menswear. The collection reminds me of what I think a modern Queen of Hearts wardrobe might look like.



Pleats and Patterns!


Houndstooth looks oh so fine.

Structure structure structure.

Power suit.



I might reconsider pants if they looked this chic. 

Shiny stripes + matter fabric =  fall/winter finery






Showstopper.

Thom Brown Pre-Fall 2013

Doesn't everyone know a Thom Browne? I know that I know an acquaintance (we are not really that close) named Thom Brown but I don't know THE Thom Browne (with an E because of course that is much more stylish than without). If only. While many primarily think of him as a menswear designer, I must say that his looks for women are simply beautiful. With their strong lines, creative silhouettes, and beautiful shapes, they are everything you want menswear as women's wear to be and nothing you don't.

I particularly love his Pre-Fall 2013 collection.


Pattern. silhouette. Texture. This has it all.
Pin tucks done so right.
 
 
A great day to night outfit.
 
Boxy perfection.
 
Fur. Just simply fur. Magnificent.
 
 
Draping.
 
 
The perfect "meet the parents" dress, don't you think?
 

I love this dress. I love it exactly the way it is. You could add a statement necklace but why? Let simplicity take over. Can you imagine how simply chic this would look with a sleep bun or flat ironed middle parted tresses and a statement lip? Crimson or perhaps a wine-y shade. Stunning

Monday, November 25, 2013

Better grab a sweater

If you're anything like me then Thanksgiving is going to be an absolute food fest. You might try to eat healthy or portion control the rest of the year but when it comes to the holidays you really can't be expected to adhere to the same eating standards that you set for yourself the rest of the year. However, with much food comes food babies so why not let you and your "little one" enjoy family and food in comfort and style? A loose cozy sweater is the perfect way to look cute, stay warm, and gives you enough room to eat all the turkey, cranberry, and pumpkin you desire. 
Michael Kors
I usually don't wear turtlenecks but I want to wrap myself in this one!
Young Republic
I don't think this is technically a sweater but it just looks so darn comfy I had to include it. 
Poncho + sweater dress = extra warm coziness 
Phillip Lim Oversized Cable Knit Pullover






Man Crush Monday: Thanksgiving Special Rob Bliss

Ok by now I'm sure that you have seen the video makeover of Jim Wolf, a homeless veteran. The video was made by Degage Ministries who worked with Jim help him with his alcohol addiction and help him to find housing. While it is unfortunate that Jim has recently relapsed in his alcohol addiction and was recently arrested, a few positive things did emerge from this video.
 
Now we are aware of what a total hottie the guy behind Rob Bliss Creative truly is. Recently while watching a HLN piece on the video, they interviewed Rob and I was struck by what a caring, smart, and articulate man that he appeared to be.
...so of course I looked him up and found that he is actually even better than at first glance. His company is involved in lots of interesting project, he has given a Ted Talk so he others obviously see his talent as well, and he urges people to make the world better through creativity which is something I try to do myself.

A caring, creative, do gooder? What more could a girl ask for? He would definitely be on anyone's list of what to be thankful for.