Detail Work
To say that I love photos of details, could possibly be an understatement. I love to see the more intimate details of an outfit and all of the exact components that make it work. I usually try to include at least one detail shot in my own photos and enjoy looking at them on other blogs as well. I am a firm believer that details make an outfit and by showcasing them in specific shots makes for an interesting photo. Here are some photos that I found to be extremely inspirational.
Vegetable Lasagna
On Sunday I had my family for Mother’s Day. Whenever I think of my mom and what she would like to eat, the first thing that comes to my mind is pasta and any kind. She is Italian (both of her parents from Abruzzi, Italy) and grew up eating pasta Tuesday, Thursday and of course on Sunday. I grew eating it about the same amount, until I got older and eating macaroni a couple times a week wasn’t considered the best option.
However, when we get together for family dinners or special occasions is still my number 1 dinner request. So needless to say for Mom’s day, we had to celebrate her by eating her favorite food. I basically followed this recipe and incorporated some techniques I learned from my mother. I changed the individual size lasagnas into one large casserole dish and kept measurements the same. The only recommendation I would give is to add cheese, mozzarella or ricotta, in between the layers. This will help keep the lasagna together when serving it.
Dreaming of the Beach
With Memorial Day only a week and half away, it has me thinking of Summer clothes and specifically beach wear. While I don’t have any set plans, just yet, hopefully the weather will cooperate and I can make it to the beach at least one day. My Summer shopping list changes a little each year, but a new bathing suit and cover-up always remain a constant. I think it’s important to purchase a cover-up that can easily translate to night time for a cocktail or light dinner after a day at the beach. Because going with flow is the #1 rule of Summer.
1/ H+M sunglasses // 2/Reiss Layla Bikini // 3/ Diane Von Furstenburg Kleio Dress // 4/ Aldo Lemmert sandal // 5/ VPL Dazzling Cutout swimsuit // 6/ Diane Von Furstenburg Kaya tote // 7/ Madewell Coneflower Pullover // 8/ American Eagle Skinny Bermuda short
Beaded and Ripped
My favorite outfit combinations are ones that mix unexpected elements and textures. A printed chiffon dress with a leather jacket, a chambray shirt and a leather skirt, a sequined dress and a army green utility jacket, and here, a beaded jacket with distressed boyfriend jeans. Putting together different textures is a great way to add dimension and character to an outfit. The two opposite pieces come together to put a surprising spin on what could be an otherwise ordinary outfit.
Outfit Details: Forever 21 Jacket, Frenchie Tank, American Eagle Jeans, Prada Shoes, Madewell Belt, Lord and Taylor Necklace
5 Classics
I worked at an event, a while ago, where I had to list the Top 5 Classic pieces that I think every woman should own in her closet. I chose these classics because they transcend age, trends and body shape. You could easily find any of these items at any price point which makes them even more attainable. Do you have these items in your closet or are you going to add them to your shopping list?
The Black Blazer – this is a total “Go To” piece. Can be worn with anything from a basic tee and a cute chunky necklace to a little black dress. This is the great thing about the Black blazer is that it can be worn either casually or dressed up. This little jacket flatters any body shape.
The best piece of advice while shopping for a blazer is that the fit should be perfect yet comfortable. The seam of the shoulder should meet directly where the arm and body meet at the outer edge of your shoulder and when you lift your arms it should not pull against you, but work with your body.
Dark Wash Jeans – the instant slimming pant. Whenever a dark color is worn on the lower half it is instantly slenderizing and that is amazing! The clean, crisp lines of dark wash jeans always make an outfit look polished. Jeans come in so many different cuts; skinny, boot cut, wide-leg, trouser, etc. Wear a silhouette that is flattering to your body type. You should never be squeezed into a pair to the point where you can’t breath. They should be comfortable. My advice is to always try on as many pairs as possible, or as long as your patience can handle it. Jeans are very specific to each person. What works for one, may not work for the next. So try, try, try and you will not be disappointed. Lastly, if they are too long get them hemmed. A good suggestion is to take them to your tailor and have them re-attach the original hem, this will look as though you bought them right off the rack and they fit perfectly.
Trench Coat - the perfect accompaniment to the rain. It is sleek, practical and has a certain quality of mystique. The strong waterproof material of the coat, normally garbadine or a cotton blend, shields from the harsh elements. But the polished construction of the jacket can’t help but make one feel enigmatic while wearing it. The original coat was made in a khaki color, but now there are a plethora of color options. Choose a color that best compliments your wardrobe, so that you can throw it on quickly white out the door without having to think about it matches your outfit!
White Tee Shirt – the classic basic that everyone should own. This is another completely versatile piece that can be worn with jeans, khakis, or a great fitting pencil skirt. There are so many varieties offered today, so many designers make them, but that doesn’t always mean quality. Since they seem to wear so quickly stick to less expensive brands, so you won’t be so upset if it stains. Feel free to splurge on a cute one that is super soft and thin, you will be happy the first time you wear it, as it will feel amazingly comfortable. People with wider shoulders should stick with a V-Neck tee, while people with narrower shoulders can opt for crew neck version of this tee shirt.
Black Pumps- the quintessential shoe that should be in every woman’s closet. This shoe should be bought for two reasons; comfort and to enhance the look of your leg. Wearing a heel in general, always defines the curvature of the legs, adds height and confidence. Who doesn’t want all of that? The pump should be bought in a height that you feel comfortable with. Regardless if the 4 inch pump is “in,” wear what YOU feel comfortable wearing. It is wise to invest in a pair that will last a long time. Spending a little extra on a well crafted shoe will show it’s worth in the long run. They will last long, the quality and construction will remain high and they will still be comfortable.
So Much to Love: A Bag Love Story
I first spotted this bag a few years ago and I have been admiring it ever since. I love how it is utilitarian yet classic, but somehow still feminine. The neutral gray color goes seamlessly with everything. It is casual enough for day, but still polished enough to wear at night. Because of the rectangle shape and short height I can fit all of my essentials without things “getting lost” in the bottom. The shape combined with a few compartments help me to know exactly where everything is at all times. To say I Love this bag, just might an understatement.
Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
Whenever I am in a pinch for time and need to bring an appetizer to a gathering, I always fall back on an Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Salad. The salad has only a few ingredients, can be assembled in minutes and requires no baking at all. I have been into Heirloom tomatoes for quite some time and they are perfect for this dish. The sweetness of the tomato with the saltiness of the mozzarella cheese and the freshness from the basil, blend together to create a fulfilling taste.
Ingredients:
* 3 or 4 Heirloom tomatoes (or whichever tomato you prefer)
* 1 pound fresh mozzarella
* About 10 leaves of Fresh Basil
* Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil for drizzling
* Salt Pepper
Directions:
* Cut tomatoes and fresh mozzarella in 1/4 inch slices. Layer on plate, alternating tomato and mozzarella.
* Cut the fresh basil into ribbons and distribute across top of dish.
* Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Shop Early Spring Sales
It’s not even Memorial Day yet, but some stores are already breaking for sale. This only benefits us, getting great deals on hot items before Summer even officially starts. I love the polka tunic, it will be so great to wear as a beach cover up.
1. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Caroline Bag $195 $58.50 // 2. Old Navy Linen Shirt Dress $34.94 $24.99 // 3. Dara Ettinger Victoria Stacking Rings $106 $74.20 // 4. J.Crew Polka Dot Tunic $65 $44.99 // 5. BCBG Generation Necklace $55 $27.49 // 6. BCBG Generation Bangle Bracelet $42 $20.00 // 7. Alice + Olivia Jane Wedge $280 $196// 8. Madewell Panel Stitch Tee $65 $44.99// 9. Vince Camuto Ebba Wedge $118 $89.99 // 10. J.Crew Gondola Stripe Top $98 $59.99
Coral Crush
Last Friday night, my husband and I celebrated Cinco de Mayo a little early and went to an eclectic restaurant that had a Mexican themed menu. Starting off with Chips, guacamole and salsa and ordered a seafood enchilada as my main dish. I am still thinking about that enchilada and how I can re-create it at home. It was such a beautiful night that wearing a breezy blouse, white jeans and flat sandals deemed appropriate.
Zara Blouse, American Eagle Jeans, Madewell Belt, Franco Sarto sandals, Proenza Schouler PS1 Medium bag (birthday gift)
Met Gala 2012 trends
The Met Gala is always an event that encourages the ground breaking, breathtaking and awe-inspiring. Last night was no disappointment. There were some notable trends at last nights Gala. Some stars donned one trend, while others combined a couple of trends, all looked gorgeous.
Glittering Metallic + Long Sleeve Gown, Pop of Orange + Contrasting Belt, Vamp Lips + Pewter Metallic, One Shoulder + Sheer Black Lace
Peplum Dress + Feather Train, Golden Metallic + One Shoulder, White Dress + Contrasting Belt + One Shoulder
