Minky Betancourt and All Things Posh

Oh Honey...

2012-02-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday, I took to a trip to Whole Foods to do my weekly grocery shopping and as I have been out of honey to use in my tea, I stopped in the honey aisle. To be honest buying honey always has a slightly bewildering effect on me as there are always so many options and all the options are expensive. I never know which option is the best choice and making the best choice is something that is and has always been really important to me. I usually pick clover honey because it’s the most familiar, I grew up using clover. But this day I decided to do something different. I whipped out my iphone and googled each type of honey, clover, orange blossom and wildflower. And what do you know, I got my answer.

The numerous honey options.
Bewilderment ensued.

Wildflower, Orange Blossom and Clover Honey.

Clover honey is honey produced by bees that feed primarily on the nectar of clover plants. It has a mild and slightly floral flavor (source www.wisegeek.com). Orange blossom honey (aka citrus honey) is produced by placing beehives in citrus groves and is said to have an orange flavoring (source www.wikipedia.com). Tupelo honey is harvested from bees that pollinate the tupelo tree, which grows along rivers and swamps in Florida (source www.honeyforhealth.com). Wildflower honey (aka polyfloral honey) is derived from multiple nectar sources and such the taste can vary from year to year (source www.ebeehoney.com).

My final choice: Wildflower Honey.

Honey can range in color from pale amber to very dark. The darker the honey the more anti-oxidant properties, vitamins and minerals it contains. Honey has many health benefits. It is a natural energy booster, has beneficial effects on the immune system with numerous anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties and has been known to treat many common ailments (yeast infections, minor cuts and burns, athlete’s foot and arthritis pain) (source www.benefits-of-honey.com).

Oh my Loub!

2012-01-26T15:46:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you meet a pair of shoes that speak for themselves.

Dolce & Gabbana SS 2012

2012-01-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

Spotted on the Dolce & Gabbana official Instagram page:

Dolce & Gabbana SS 2012

I'll take them both, please and thank you! Swoon!

Accoutre Love

2012-01-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

There are the times when I think the Universe is challenging me to show her why I "deserve to have it all" and then there are the times when I know she is listening and delivering. Yesterday, was one of the latter. A week or so ago, I said I needed more pink in my life and yesterday, I received a lovely pink corduroy bow tie from Accoutre (thanks, Chloe!!). I love it! Don't you?!

Also note the delicate printed tissue paper the tie was packaged in, such an elegant touch! I really love when businesses take the time to think about the little things that may delight a customer and make their experience just a little bit more wonderful. Kudos Accoutre!

Stubbs and Wooten

2012-01-13T10:00:00.003-05:00

I've been obsessing over Stubbs and Wooten slippers for a long while now. After spending an entire day of thinking about velvet (see my other blog, www.aposhplace.blogspot.com), I couldn't help but be drawn back to my desire for a pair of these lovely little velvet slippers. Here are a few I like best.

Pink...

2012-01-12T13:32:00.000-05:00

...I need more of it in my life.

The Sweet Lobby

2012-01-11T10:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I picked up a box of macarons from The Sweet Lobby for my my friend, Chloe, in celebration of buying her first home. There were so many options to choose from, it was difficult just deciding on six. They looked so pretty and delicate in the case, it seemed almost cruel to gobble them up like I was sure we would. I ended up selecting Rose, Hazelnut Praline Salted Caramel, Mocha, Mango, Lemon and Mint Chocolate. I purchased one Hazelnut Praline Salted Caramel macaron for myself and being that it was a temperate winter day, I took it outside to enjoy in the sunshine. The deliciousness of that macaron was incredible. After it was gone, I could feel my taste-buds still savoring it, almost as if they were dancing. It was very difficult not to buy another. I think my cupcake addiction has been replaced by a macaron addiction so needless to say, I will be visiting The Sweet Lobby again!

A Touch of Sparkle

2012-01-07T10:00:00.010-05:00

I think I may be slightly obsessed with all things sparkly this year, from sprinkling glitter all over my twitter timeline to sequined leggings and now these sparkle-riffic phone cases from Simply Fabulous. I just can't seem to get enough sparkle.


Gold Bow Peep $60 www.simplyfabshop.com

Blue Bow Peep $60
www.simplyfabshop.com

Purple Bow Deluxe $60
www.simplyfabshop.com

Heart of Man

2012-01-06T10:00:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I commented that I learn of at least 5 new awesome things each day. Earlier this week, I met Marcus Noel of Heart of Man Clothing and discovered yet another new awesome thing. It was apparent right away that Mr. Noel was extremely focused, driven and fashion savvy. During the course of our brief encounter, Marcus told me that Heart of Man seeks to help underserved children while taking fashion to a new level. Through further research, I learned that a portion of the proceeds from each article of clothing Heart of Man sells is donated to a non-profit that serves disadvantaged children by helping them realize their life potential and escape poverty. I was super impressed by Heart of Man's mission and look forward to making my own contribution as well as adding a letterman's sweater to my wardrobe!

Sequined Leggings

2012-01-05T13:30:00.000-05:00

I know New Year's has come and gone and as some probably think, so should all things sparkly but I disagree. I'm usually not a big sequins person. There's no real reason for this, I just never jumped on the trend, that is until yesterday when I saw these leggings on @fashionclimaxx's instagram feed. Since then I've been scouring the Internet to find out who makes them and where I can get a pair. Hate them or love them? Let me know!

My Christmas Wish List

2011-12-08T16:15:00.000-05:00

My mom asked me to compile a list of items I wanted for Christmas. It's taken me 3 weeks to come up with a list but here it is.

A new computer. Preferably a Mac.
Pictured here a MacBook Air.

Boots. Preferably Frye. Pictured here, Frye's Riding Chelsea.

A Cambridge Satchel from the Classic collection, 14"
and my initials embossed in gold.

Anything Dannijo. Pictured here, the Bea bib.

A Celtics jersey, a Rondo Celtics jersey.

De*Nada's Hooded Cowl.

An assortment of whimsical bow ties.

Joules wellies

de*nada

2011-12-02T13:14:00.000-05:00

Because it's cold and all I can think about is how to stay warm, I've got de*nada on the brain. de*nada is the brain child of Virginia Blanca, and is a locally based online boutique that specializes in handwoven knits. I've been a fan of de*nada scarves for quite some time, probably going on over 2 years now (I cyberstalk her website regularly). At a recent Hugh & Crye-WGIRLS DC event in Georgetown, a handsome gentleman walked in looking deliciously sophisticated and with a strong resemblance to Bradley Cooper (swoon!). I noticed him because he was handsome (of course) and because of the awesome hooded cowl scarf he was wearing. I watched from across the room before making up my mind to go and ask about the scarf. As it turns out, the scarf was made by de*nada. Unfortunately, I did not make up my mind to ask about the Bradley Cooper resemblance but I did immediately decide the hooded cowl would be going on my Christmas list. Take a peek at it and a couple others below.

de*nada hooded cowl, $68

de*nada cowl soft knit, $55

de*nada cowl medium duo, $58

skLo Mobiles

2011-11-30T12:53:00.002-05:00

My love affair with mobiles began upon seeing my first Alexander Calder mobile and it's only grown in the years since. So you can imagine the jaw droppage that occured last night as I stayed up past my bedtime to peruse the latest Anthropologie catalog and spotted these two mobiles produced by skLO. The word sklo is actually czech for glass. The company is based in Sonoma County, CA and works with glass masters in their Czech studios* to produce handblown glass objects, lighting, and design (commercial/residential) projects. Their glass is beautiful and it's no surprise to me that Anthropologie picked up two of their designs for their house and home arsenal.

Balanced Fizz Mobile, Anthropologie, $798

Zephyrine Mobile (blue), Anthropologie, $798

*Corrected to reflect that the company is actually based in California and not in the Czech Republic as previously printed.

Just Fine...

2011-11-29T11:37:00.000-05:00

Just another day where a quote perfectly describes my perspective on life.

Paris: Week 1

2011-11-28T12:08:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving is over and it's back to the humdrum of daily living, although for me it's all of a sudden not quite so humdrum-ish. One early morning during the holiday break, I had a talk with my mom where she asked me to take a look at my life and evaluate whether I was doing all the things I'd dreamed. I've long talked about moving to Paris, studying and working for a couple of years, and she reminded me of that dream. She asked if I had forgotten about it and what I was waiting on to make it happen. She encouraged me to go, to move to Paris. I thought on it the rest of my time at home and I realized it's not something I can turn my back on. I know it is something that I want to do. I also know that if I don't do it soon, it will probably be something that I will always look back on and wish that I had done. So, I resolved to do it.

As soon as I made up my mind to do it, I knew I would have to ask for help, something that for me is a huge deal. I talked to my friend/life coach, Lauree of Simply Leap, and I asked her to help me. I asked her to hold me accountable and to help me get from point A (DC) to point B (Paris). Lauree kicked right into coach-mode. She asked me to come up with a list of items/steps that would help my goal become a reality. And we made a plan of attack that included me coming up with items each week that would help me get closer to Paris and then meeting with her at the end of the week to go over my progress, i.e. which goals I had achieved, which I had not, talking me through any fear or anxiety, and making more goals for the next week. Armed with this plan, I feel able. I feel ready to take the next steps.

Pearl Dive

2011-11-22T14:27:00.000-05:00

Sunday I ended up in somewhat of a bad mood. I'm not quite sure how this happened as all I did was wake up, check twitter, and start my laundry but somehow that's where I ended up. I had no desire to leave the house. All I wanted was to lay in the midst of my warm, newly washed clothes and drift in and out of sleep for the rest of the day. But it was Sunday and Sunday tradition calls for brunch with my bff, Chloe. It should also be mentioned, that we both tend to have really late starts on Sunday, so brunch usually ends up being dinner. This particular Sunday was no different, but I, nevertheless, hauled myself outta bed and over to Chloe's.

I was in the mood for something different from our usual brunch/dinner spots, so I suggested Hank's Oyster Bar. It was also fairly warm out so I suggested that we walk. And because I was agitated for no apparent reason, I suggested that we stop for coffee. Chloe being lovely and agreeable, as she always is, agreed to Hank's, the walk, and the coffee but suggested instead of Starbuck's we go to Peregrine Espresso. I really wanted the Starbuck's since it was two for one week but always willing to try something new, I agreed.

I walked into Peregrine, unsure of what I would try. Chloe recommended the cappucino. I decided to go with a latte. A non-fat latte. To which the barista, immediately turned up his nose and asked, "But why non-fat?!" I responded, "What's wrong with non-fat?" His response, "The fat binds better with the coffee and gives it better flavor." Better flavor?!? Sold. "Ok, I'll have the regular latte."

Latte from Peregrine Espresso

I must say, the barista was right. The flavor was much better. My bad mood, which previously I had worn around me like a tight, impenetrable cloak of storm clouds, began to break up and a few rays of sunlight shone through. I thanked the barista for his suggestion and we began our trek over to Hank's. A few steps south of Peregrine, we spotted Pearl Dive Oyster Palace, an interesting looking restaurant with a walk up bar. The walk up bar lured us in and after a brief discussion, it was decided we would eat there. The bartender revealed that dinner was not available until 5pm but we were welcome to order anything off the bar menu. A quick comparison resulted in us waiting the 30 minutes for the full dinner menu.

Pearl Dive Oyster Palace off 14th St., NW, Washington, DC

Bar and dinner menus at Pearl Dive

Delighted by the coffee, a glass of Viognier, and the prospect of a delicious meal, my storm cloud mood was swept away and only a bright, giddy disposition was left. At the suggestion of our server, Nick, we ordered a carafe of the Albarinos, a crisp white wine and for starters, the cornmeal fried oysters with andouille and sweet potato hash and bacon wrapped oysters in a vinegar and white wine reduction. Feeling somewhat full from the coffee, the bread, the wine and the appetizer oysters, we decided to have a round (6) of oyster's on the half shell (harvested from Virginia, Washington State, and Massachusetts) and the apple black iron pie served with two scoops of cinnamon gelato. To say this meal was delicious would not do it justice. It was truly an experience. Our server (Nick) was amazing. His recommendations were spot on and by the end of the evening, I was practically glowing. Check out the pictures below.

Left: Cornmeal crusted Oysters in a Andouille Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
Right: "Angels on Horseback" - Grilled Oysters wrapped in Bacon with a Vinegar and White Wine Reduction
Pearl Dive Oyster Bar

Oysters on the Half Shell
harvested from Virginia, Massachusetts, and Washington State
Pearl Dive Oyster Bar

Apple Black Iron Pie under Cinnamon Gelato
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace

Eero Saarinen

2011-11-21T10:30:00.001-05:00

Maybe it's because I love architecture and art and design but sometimes I'll look at a structure and marvel at the genius behind it. If you've ever visited the Lincoln or Jefferson Memorials in Washington, DC, then you understand what I'm talking about. They're quite impressive.

I recently posted about Eero Saarinen's "Tulip" chair and the mid-century modernist movement. I was inspired to do so after reading about the Finnish American architect and his contributions to the world of architecture and design. Much of Saarinen's work is readily recognized and world reknown. See pictures below...

Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO

Washington Dulles International Airport, Dulles, VA

TWA Flight Center at JFK International Airport in Queens, NYC

Kresge Auditorium, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Ingalls Rink, Yale University, New Haven, CT

A brief look at Mid-Century Modern

2011-11-18T10:30:00.009-05:00

Lately, it seems every client I talk to or home I enter is interested in mid-century modern furniture or has a piece of mid-century modern furniture on display. Mid-century modern is typically used to refer to any product or interior design or architecture that occured from 1933-1965. It is said to be organic in style and exhibit Scandinavian influences.

Not long ago, I attended an event in DC hosted by Apartment Therapy in which a panel discussed DC's obssession with all things mid-century modern. I learned a lot about the importance of buying from reliable sources as well as about the process and creativity behind the mid-century modernist artists, architects and designers. These influencers, Eames, Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and Saarinen (to name a few), each made a significant contribution to the movement and their works are still being reproduced and copied today. Scroll down to see how many you recognize.

Mies van der Rohe "Barcelona" chair from Knoll.com, $7740

Le Corbusier "Le Petit Modele" Armchair $3945 at Design Within Reach

Eames Molded Plastic 4 Leg Side Chair $279 at Design Within Reach

Saarinen "Tulip" Armless Chair $1440 at Design Within Reach

Cy Twombly and Richard Serra

2011-11-17T11:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, my very good friend who is somewhat of a JayZ look-alike sent me a link to GQ magazine's "Man of the Year" article featuring JayZ. I read it because, well, I'm always curious as to what he's up to and I kinda hoped there would be some mention of Kanye (there was). But I don't want to talk about JayZ or Kanye (today), I want to talk about two of the artists referenced in the article; Cy Twombly and Richard Serra.

My first experience with Cy Twombly was on a Sunday afternoon solo trip to the Corcoran. I came across a large work of art that appeared to be scribblings on a chalk board. The piece was entitled 'Synopsis of a Battle' and inspired me enough that I wrote the artist's name down with the intent to research more of his work at a later time. I did and surmised that while the work did not stir up within me an immediate passion to run out and create, it was interesting and I would have liked (RIP) to have had the opportunity to talk art with him. Check out his work below.

"Synopsis of a Battle" Cy Twombly
on view at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC
(borrowed from http://www.luxeandlucid.typepad.com/)

Cy Twombly (borrowed from http://www.chinoiseriechic.blogspot.com/)

Cy Twombly "Roses" Exhibition at the Gagosian Gallery
(borrowed from HypeBeast/Art Observed)

Another artist mentioned in the GQ article was Richard Serra. I wasn't aware that I knew Richard Serra's work prior to reading the article. So I again took it upon myself to do a little bit of research. After researching, I realized I had seen Serra's work up close and personal in the East Wing of the National Gallery of Art. To be sure, I did a quick google search of "Richard Serra National Gallery of Art" and my theory was proven. I remembered his work strictly due to it's sheer size and weight (sheet metal). It also stuck out in my mind as I remember being afraid it would fall over on me. While the work on view at the National Gallery of Art was not one of my favorites, I am extremely impressed with Serra's other works. Take a peek...

Richard Serra "Five Plates Two Poles"
on view at the National Gallery of Art, East Wing in Washington, DC
(borrowed from http://www.cavetocanvas.com/)

Richard Serra
(borrowed from http://www.llanea.wordpress.com/)

Richard Serra (borrowed from http://www.andrecarmellini.com/)

Richard Serra (borrowed from http://www.anyonegirl.com/)

Richard Serra
(borrowed from http://www.lancegray02.wordpress.com/)

Tocca Florence

2011-11-16T09:55:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, a friend was having "a moment" and decided she needed to go to the MAC store for some beauty product therapy. Somehow before going to MAC, we ended up in the Sephora directly across the street. My friend wanted a new lipstick. I was just along for the ride. But as what usually happens when one is along for the ride, you end up in the same trouble as the person doing the driving.

I meandered around Sephora looking at the MakeUp Forever, Guerlain, YSL, and Dior red lipsticks and thus feeling a bit overwhelmed, decided a new red lipstick was not in the cards for me on that particular day. I stood with my friends giving my opinion until they were ready to purchase and then stood in line checking out all the different samples lining the cash wrap queue. That's when I smelled it, Florence by Tocca. It smelled heavenly. The sample carried a small price tag of $18 and I jumped on it, my rationale being that I would try out the smaller sample, see how compatible the fragance would be with my pheromones, and if I loved it, make a subsequent trip back for the larger size. Excited about my new fragrance, I decided a mere 2 days after purchasing, it was time to try it out. I must say, Florence by Tocca is fragrant but delicate and long wearing. It reminds me a lot of Michael by Michael Kors and it makes me feel feminine and sexy. I'm definitely going back for the larger size.

Tocca Florence

The Knot of a Butterfly...

2011-11-15T12:09:00.001-05:00

Since the summer, I've said that starting this Fall, I was gonna be all about bow ties. I purchased my first bow tie in August for $1 from a thrift store. Since then I have purchased several more all for less than $10, as I've been leery of investing a ton of money in something I wasn't even sure if I would be able to tie properly. However, it all sorted itself out this past Saturday night. A good friend was having a birthday dinner at Brasserie Beck. After helping her pick out her birthday dress the day before, I was a little anxious about what I should wear. You know that dilemma we girls have in always feeling like we never have anything to wear, well, that's the exact panic attack I had Saturday afternoon about 45 minutes before I was supposed to leave home. Then I remembered my bow ties! Since my favorite J. Crew gingham shirt had just been cleaned, I decided to wear that with a purple plaid bow tie, a stretchy black skirt, black stirrups, and black La Perla pumps. I threw this outfit together in 10 minutes and was out the door (surprisingly) on time! The dinner was a wonderful feast of food and drink and good conversation with great friends. The bow tie got a lot of stares from strangers and some commentary from friends, but I didn't mind. I felt fabulous.

See the pictures below of me in my bow tie, as well as other bow ties I'd like to add to my collection.

"Gaudi Door" La Noeud Papillon AUD $145

"Icecream" La Noeud Papillon AUD $145

The Perfect Necktie $16.95

"A bow tie can be symbolic for nonchlance, flair, eccentricity, prep, intelligence, wit, charm or just plain fun. A bow tie wearer often has an artist's mind, a respect for tradition and yet a renegade at the same time."

- La Noeud Papillon

"...But perhaps most of all, wearing a bow tie is a way of broadcasting an aggressive lack of concern for what other people think." - Warren St. John, The New York Times

Joules Wellies

2011-11-02T12:11:00.001-04:00

I know I already have a pair of wellies but my current pair does not have ribbons. And shouldn't everything be adorned with ribbons?

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T16:39:00.002-04:00

My Halloween fun took place Saturday night so instead of collecting candy I'll be toughing it out in a fitness boot camp but to everyone trick o' treating tonight, be safe and have fun!

Vintage Bunny Costume from Missimo.com.

Bangle Madness

2011-10-20T12:00:00.005-04:00

Bangles from Fornash $25

Giraffe bangles from Fornash $60

Custom 14K gold bangle made in Saudia Arabia

The Great Case Race 2011

2011-10-19T13:31:00.002-04:00

The event was entitled "The Great Case Race 2011" and was held in a condo building in downtown DC, right off 16th St. The original objective was for 12 people to taste 12 bottles of wine, but end of the night tallies revealed that 45 people tasted 48 bottles of wine. Nice. I was invited by my good friend Lauree O. and told we needed to bring a dish as the event was to be pot luck style. From my previous post, you know that I brought chocolate peanut bacon bark (it was delicious). I arrived a little later than most of the party patrons but immediately got acclimated to the festivities and dove right in and began tasting.

There was a solid array of wines, both red and white. I started with the reds, working my way from medium bodied to full and once the wines became too heavy/"oaky" for my palette, I made my way back to the whites. While tasting, I also mingled with Lauree and her friend from college, Peter. During our mingling (which was mostly walking back and forth among the tables sampling cheeses and the delicious chocolates donated by ACKC Cocoa Bar), Peter stumbled upon a sassy pair of red shoes that had been abandoned by their wearer. He then proceeded to model them for our cameras.

As you can see, he was quite darling. After Peter's sashay in the ruby slippers, we continued walking about sampling cheeses and breads and fruits. I was especially fond of the grapes. How ironic/awkward...me hovering about the grapes at a wine tasting. Go figure. In the midst of all our tasting and sampling and mingling, I noticed a newly acquired friend, Ashton, whom I met at a Brooks Brothers' event a few days prior. With Ashton was a lovely girl, who was made even more lovely by the Alexander McQueen skull clutch she brought along with her and casually discarded on a nearby bench while she mingled. Upon spying the clutch, I told her I needed a moment in private with it and proceeded to hold and caress and photograph it.

Alexander McQueen Skull Clutch

I didn't want to let it go. :(

The night continued pretty much in the same manner, although, once I discovered that clutch, I didn't want to move too far away from it. So I sat right next to it, only getting up to get more wine. My reluctance to move could have also stemmed from the fact that my shoes, while quite fashionable, were quite painful. And unlike the red shoe abandoner, I refused to take my shoes off and let everyone in the party know fashion had gotten the best of me. So I sat next to the McQueen clutch and silently prayed that the Uni-verse deliver one equally as lovely to my doorstep, post-haste and that Lauree and Peter not want to move to the other side of the room where I would have to stand.

Fashionable but painful.

The Uni-verse answered one prayer and I continued to sit, we also continued to chat and ~~drink~~ taste. Towards the end of the night, we were notified that the evening's donations totalled over $1000 and would benefit an organization, known as 'Hole in the Wall Gang', a camp for ill children. Along with cheers, that elicited more ~~drinking~~ tasting until finally there were only 3 bottles of wine left.

The damage.

An announcement was made that the party needed to dissolve or we could take the 3 bottles of wine and relocate to the roof. Most chose to head home or to other venues. The rest of us, steadfast in our glorious wine-induced haze, headed up to the roof to enjoy the remaining wine and a crisp fall night overlooking the city.

Wine and Chocolate

2011-10-18T12:15:00.001-04:00

Last week I was invited to a wine tasting. We were asked to bring a dish, as all the wine was being provided free of charge. At the last minute, I remembered a friend's chocolate bacon bark from a party last year and decided to make it for the party, as what pairs better with wine than chocolate? Ok, maybe cheese, but I didn't have time for all that. The recipe called for 16oz of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup of unsalted peanuts, and 8 strips of fried and minced bacon (fry first, mince later). I added the semi-sweet chocolate chips to a "double broiler" (in this case, I placed a glass bowl over a pot of boiling water and once the water began to boil, I added the chips to the bowl) and stirred until the chips melted and the consistency was soft and smooth. I added the peanuts and the bacon and stirred them in until the peanuts were covered in chocolate. I then lined a cookie sheet with wax paper and poured the chocolate, bacon and peanut mixture over the wax paper. I used a plastic spatula to smooth the mixture evenly over the wax paper and then I refrigerated the ingredients for one hour. After one hour (you can go longer), I removed the cookie sheet from the refrigerator and proceeded to break the bark into small pieces. And voila! See below for the final outcome.

Chocolate Peanut Bacon Bark

My next post will be about the actual party...

Life

2011-04-20T09:00:00.002-04:00

Shoe Envy

2011-04-19T09:00:00.003-04:00

Khloe Kardashian's Shoe Closet

Rules of A Lady (Edited Edition/My Favorites)

2011-04-18T14:14:00.001-04:00

Life and Living

2011-04-17T09:00:00.004-04:00

Clutch Player

2011-04-16T09:00:00.001-04:00

From here on out, I've decided to only carry clutches until Fall when I will then invest in a nice, large, black bag, to schlep all my stuff around in. Here are the two I'm currently carrying and the one that I'm waiting on the Universe to manifest in my hands any day now!

Hot in Pink

2011-04-15T09:00:00.002-04:00

Love!

Becoming My Mother

2011-04-14T09:00:00.005-04:00

If I had any doubt before, I now know, I am mother's daughter! There actually exists a pair of Ked's I adore! Mom has been wearing Ked's for years, most of her life really. She says they remind of her of her childhood. Wondering if these lovely little beauties will work the same magic for me?

Always Optimistic

2011-04-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

Dreaming of a White Summer

2011-04-12T09:00:00.004-04:00

As I'm already in the process of gearing my wardrobe up for summer, of the numerous white articles on the list (new white skinny jeans, white sundress, new oversized men's white button down shirt, white shorts, and a white straw hat), I've now added a white suit. Love this one!

In a Blaze(r) of Glory...or not.

2011-04-11T09:00:00.003-04:00

After making the decision to wear my work clothes (blazer, camisole, and leggings) to ab class on Thursday* , I realized that adding a blazer to any outfit makes it totally acceptable and appropriate. Case in point...

*It should be noted, I did remove the blazer while in class and then put it back on for drinks immediately after.

Passion

2011-03-11T13:25:00.001-05:00

Clutch Time

2011-03-10T10:50:00.001-05:00

Will anyone tell me why I didn't know about this yellow leather carry-all pouch from American Apparel??? I must have it! Now!

I Carry Your Heart With Me

2011-03-09T16:42:00.001-05:00

An excerpt from one of my favorite E.E. Cummings' poems

...here is the deepest secret nobody knows

(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)

Chance

2011-03-08T11:02:00.003-05:00

"If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it."

2011-03-08T09:00:00.003-05:00

Inspired by...

2011-03-01T09:00:00.008-05:00

Images I love...

The Road Not Taken

2011-03-01T09:00:00.007-05:00

The Road Not Taken
-Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Celine

2011-02-28T09:00:00.003-05:00

Want.

Shoes...

2011-02-27T09:00:00.004-05:00

I can never have enough of them...

Cole Haan

Christian Louboutin

Manolo Blahnik

Style...

2011-02-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

Some of us have it...

Inspiration

2011-02-25T16:21:00.002-05:00

Because It's Friday and I Felt Like Looking at Shoes...

2011-02-25T14:27:00.002-05:00

And because these are all giving me earth-shattering shoegasms and what's a blog without Christian Louboutins featured at least once or twice?!

Madame Butterfly

Lucifer Bow

Boulimia

Pigalle 120mm

Inspiration

2011-02-24T09:00:00.004-05:00

What is it about inspiration that is so fleeting? One day I'm inspired, the next I'm not. Is it possible to somehow magically live each day in an inspired state? Or does that defeat the point of "being inspired"? Today, as deep as I dug, I just couldn't find it...inspiration.

Food For Thought

2011-02-23T09:00:00.010-05:00

Food for thought...we all need a little bit every now and again, right?

"It’s not what’s happening to you now or what has happened in your past that determines who you become. Rather, it’s your decisions about what to focus on, what things mean to you, and what you’re going to do about them that will determine your ultimate destiny."- Anthony Robbins

"Better to be known as a sinner than a hypocrite." - Proverb

"You can’t just beat someone, you have to leave a lasting impression in their minds so they never want to see you again." - Mia Hamm

"Freedom in general may be defined as the absence of obstacles to the realization of desires." - Bertrand Russell

"A public-opinion poll is no substitute for thought." - Warren Buffett

"Prudence keeps life safe but does not often make it happy." - via a Fortune Cookie

Worth It

2011-02-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Book Clutch

2011-02-22T09:00:00.003-05:00

How I do love the book clutch...

Check out http://www.katespade.com/ for more details...

My obsession with red continues...

2011-02-21T09:00:00.004-05:00

These red silk cigarette pants were tweeted into my Twitter timeline a couple of weeks ago and they've been haunting my thoughts ever since. I know I need a lot of unnecessary (ha!) things BUT I really, really, REALLY need these pants. I mean, come on, for one, they're red. Two, they're silk. And three, they're cigarette (i.e. skinny) pants!! How can you go wrong with a lineup like that? That's right, you can't. Wes Gordon really hit the ball out of the park with these.

Wes Gordon Fall 2011

And if you were a little concerned about what kind of shoes I would wear with these lovely pants, never fear, I've already resolved that little dilemma.

Kate Spade 'Tivoli' $285

I would go on and on and put a whole outfit together; a top, jacket, accessories, and even tell you how I would style my hair. But, I won't. Instead, I'll just let these two lovely pieces of fashion wonderful-ness settle over your consciousness and quite possibly begin to haunt your thoughts, too.

Daydreaming

2011-02-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

In need of a getaway...soon.

Scott Disick

2011-02-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

Scott Disick. One of many reality tv has given a bad rep and consequently, has caused the loyal reality tv viewing public to develop a love-hate relationship with BUT in spite of our ups and downs with Mr. Disick something must be said about his great style and I don't mind being the one to say it.

The Mad Ones...

2011-02-18T09:00:00.002-05:00

The Princess and The Pea

2011-02-17T09:00:00.003-05:00

So often I've felt the Princess' pain in this story, some little thing that is just determined to get in the way of my happiness. Anywho, at dinner Friday night, I was recounting this tale to a friend and he didn't believe it was a real fairy tale. He was so adamant in his disbelief that I, too, started to doubt whether it was a real tale or if maybe I had made it up to amuse myself. (Yes, I am aware I give myself WAY more credit than I should, to think that for a day I actually allowed myself to believe that I came up with something as brilliant as 'The Princess and the Pea.' *shakes head at self* Yeah, I'm definitely not lacking in the way of self-esteem. Alas, here's a version of the Dutch tale if you need a refresher...
__________________________________________________________________________________

The Princess on the Pea

Denmark - Hans Christian Anderson

Once upon a time there was a prince who wanted to find a princess, but she would have to be a real princess. So he traveled all around the world to find one, but there was always something wrong. There were princesses enough, but he could never be sure that they were real ones. There was always something about them that was not quite right. So he came home again and was sad, for he so much wanted to have a real princess.
One evening there was a terrible storm. It thundered and lightninged! The rain poured down! It was horrible! Then there was a knock at the city gate, and the old king went out to open it. A princess was standing outside. But my goodness, how she looked from the rain and the weather! Water ran down from her hair and her clothes. It ran into the toes of her shoes and out at the heels. And yet she said that she was a real princess.

"Well, we shall soon find that out," thought the old queen. But she said nothing, went into the bedroom, took off all the bedding and laid a pea on the bottom of the bed. Then she took twenty mattresses and laid them on the pea, and then twenty featherbeds of eiderdown on top of the mattresses. That was where the princess was to sleep for the night.

In the morning she was asked how she had slept."Oh, horribly!" she said. "I hardly closed my eyes all night. Goodness knows what there was in the bed! I was lying on something hard, so that I am black and blue all over my body. It is horrible!"
Now they could see that she was a real princess, because she had felt the pea right through the twenty mattresses and the twenty featherbeds. Nobody but a real princess could be that sensitive.

So the prince took her for his wife, because now he knew that he had a real princess. And the pea was put in the art gallery where it can still be seen, unless someone has taken it.

___________________________________________________________________________________

I've got needs...

2011-02-16T09:00:00.003-05:00

These...

Michael Kors 'Windsor' loafer $97.95

and these...

French Sole 'Via' Flat $209.95

and most certainly these.

Kate Spade New York 'aeryn' flat $275.00

Gywneth and Bey

2011-02-15T11:45:00.001-05:00

Am I the only one who loves that Gywneth Paltrow and Beyonce Knowles-Carter are besties???

Simply gorgeous.

2011-02-15T11:11:00.001-05:00

Lovelovelovelovelovelove...

Jessica Alba at the Baftas in Atelier Versace

Sass and Confidence

2011-02-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Lately it seems I'm finding a lot of inspiration from sassy and confident women. Hmm...

That said, after watching Carmen Jones this weekend, I decided I needed to spruce myself up in the way of painting my nails a brilliant shade of red and wearing the reddest (grammar?) lipstick in my possession.

To The Moon, Alice!

2011-02-02T09:00:00.005-05:00

Ran across this in Whole Foods last week. Made me envision a spitfire of a woman, that knows exactly what she wants, exactly where she's going, and exactly how to get there. Oh, how I do aspire to be that woman.

Richard Diebenkorn

2011-02-01T09:00:00.006-05:00

So I guess it's pretty obvious that art is really important to me. After quite a few museum trips, I've found that the art that moves me most, is usually abstract expressionism. The more abstract and filled with vivid color the piece, the more I love it. That said, a recent trip to the Corcoran Gallery exposed me to yet another abstract expressionist painter whom I now love, Richard Diebenkorn. I've included a few of his works below.

Quotes I stumbled upon over the weekend

2011-01-31T09:00:00.004-05:00

"No one looks back on their life and remembers the nights they got plenty of sleep." - Anon

"Tell me and I forget; Show me and I remember; Involve me and I understand." - Anon

"Motivation needs to be part of your own life for you to be effective in conveying it to other people." - Zig Ziglar

"One shoe can change your life..." - Cinderella

"In small ways or large, your life will change the world -- and in small ways or large, the world will change you." - Martha Beck

Part Deux: Glamour...I need more of it.

2011-01-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

Thinking of starting a movement to bring back class, elegance, and all things fabulous. Here seems like a great place to start.

John Cavanagh Strapless Evening Gown 1957

Glamour...I need more of it.

2011-01-25T09:00:00.005-05:00

I've fallen in love with Jean Shrimpton...

Jae Ko

2011-01-24T09:00:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend, I took a trip to the Phillips Collection for their 90th Birthday celebration. As part of the promo for the event the gallery was free to the public, *read* it was extremely crowded. Not one to shy away from a crowd, I stood in line (gasp) and waited my turn for entry to the museum. Once I was finally inside (20 min later), I was pleasantly surprised by the Jae Ko exhibit. I'm still not able to decide if the exhibit reminds me of a bunch of amoebas squished together or some kind of striated muscle tissue but nevertheless I was thoroughly impressed by the creativity/ingenuity behind the exhibit since it's composed completely of craft paper. Here are a few other works by Jae Ko, as well as a video on how the exhibit was installed. Enjoy!

Country Strong

2011-01-22T09:00:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, I decided to take the long weekend and fill it with only things that make me happy (except for those damn, non-fat lattes). But nevertheless, one such thing that did contribute to my happiness was going to see the movie 'Country Strong.' It was a real tear-jerker and maybe it was because I'm a sentimental, emotional girly sap of a trainwreck but in spite of all that, I still enjoyed the movie. Of the things I loved most (besides the fact that Gwyneth Paltrow was one of the leading actors), was the soundtrack. I plan to buy it today and blare it in my car while I'm stuck in outer belt-loop hell. Here are lyrics up to the first chorus of my favorite song from the soundtrack, 'Give in to me':

I'm gonna wear you down
I'm gonna make you see
I'm gonna get to you
You're gonna give in to me

I'm gonna start a fire
You're gonna feel the heat
I'm gonna burn for you
You're gonna melt for me

Come on, Come on
Into my arms
Come on, Come on
Give into me...

A Good Thing...or Two.

2011-01-21T12:46:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! I know I'm a little late but what else is new?! Let rhetoric tell it, good things come to those who wait and patience IS a virtue. So, here we are and for the last several months, I have been on a mission for a snazzy pair of glasses. No, not sunglasses, just a regular pair of vision-correcting lenses. And alas, I think I've found the perfect pair. Only currently, they're made to function as sunglasses. But not to worry, I'm already in plans to retrofit them to meet my poor eyesight having needs. While drooling over MY glasses, (yes, I'm claiming them) I also stumbled upon this chic houndstooth driving cap. Just picture that...me driving AND being able to see...and at the same time! Now, how's that for a good thing...or two?! :)

Ralph Lauren Keyhole Zebra Printed Sunglasses

Ralph Lauren Houndstooth Driving Cap

Pour Homme

2010-11-28T15:48:00.000-05:00

Today's treasure is a little something for the guys. Although, I'm not ashamed to admit even my heart did a little jump when I first heard the news of the new Hermes Mens Store that opened on NYC's Madison Ave in early February. Actually, who am I kidding, my heart does a somersault anytime I see/read/hear mention of Hermes (am I the only one that hears the angels' harp?). I have always held the brand in high esteem, ranking it only alongside luxury label Chanel, in elegance, refinement, and chic-ness. I have yet to visit the store, which is the first of its kind in that it is solely a mens store, but I did get the scoop on this fab pair of sneakers. Take a peek and leave a comment.

Hugh and Crye

2010-11-08T18:35:00.001-05:00

I've been hearing about Hugh and Crye for a while now on the DC Style radar but last week I finally decided to visit their website to find out what they're all about. I was pleasantly surprised when I read their company profile to find that they're not just another company trying to schlep a European styled dress shirt off on the American public. They've actually come up with a very unique and original way of sizing men's dress shirts, which you can learn more about here. Here are a couple I've decided to buy as gifts for the lucky men in my life. Think they'll like them as I much as I do?

Books at Work

2010-11-05T09:00:00.001-04:00

Looking for a resourceful way to put those old books to work? Here's one that caught my eye. Love this!

Olivia Palermo

2010-11-04T09:00:00.005-04:00

Is it just me or fashion-wise can Olivia Palermo do no wrong?!?

***Updated: Apparently, I'm not the only one who thinks Olivia Palermo has the style of a fashion goddess. Here are some pictures of Ms. Palermo and her gorgeous boyfriend, Johannes Huebl on their Mango magazine photo shoot.

Brook&Lyn

2010-11-03T09:00:00.002-04:00

During my blog reading today, I stumbled across the Brook&Lyn boutique and began an immediate and steamy love affair with just about all the accessories listed in their catalogue. These are the ones I felt should immediately be gifted to me just because I have no idea how I'll ever manage without them.

Spider Family Brooch - Vintage - $85

Goddess Coin Necklace - Vintage - On Sale $45

ZigZag Gold Necklace - Vintage - On Sale $45

Thrifty Tuesday!

2010-11-02T08:54:00.001-04:00

I missed last week's Thrifty Tuesday but never fear, I'm back this week and I think you'll love my latest find. This Dana Buchman houndstooth jacket was just too cute to leave in the store, so I adopted it and now it has a new home! The sleeves are 3/4 length, so I'm thinking once it gets cold I can wear it with long leather gloves. I'll post pics as soon as I venture out in my new look!

Bathroom Envy

2010-11-01T13:44:00.001-04:00

I saw this bathroom from the Kips Bay Showhouse and died a thousand love-deaths. Oh My Goodness!

Tuxedo Jacket

2010-10-25T10:21:00.001-04:00

This week's obsession is tuxedo jackets. Personally, I've always been a fan of a more tailored style. In my opinion, it always makes you look more pulled together and confident, even when you may not be feeling exactly so. I've been on the blazer/cardigan kick for years but recently, I've been yearning to step my game up a notch and add a tuxedo jacket to my wardrobe. Here are a few I've got my eye on.

Runaway

2010-10-24T12:13:00.001-04:00

I love art. I love how it makes me feel. I love the people who create it. I love the people who appreciate it. I love that art can make you feel something outside yourself, something unexpected but relished nonetheless. And whether those feelings be good, bad, or indifferent, art inspires us. This video inspired me on so many levels. The music, sad but enchanting. The colors, vivid yet drab. The ballerinas with their graceful but powerful movements. And my favorite tortured artist, Mr. Kanye West, arrogant and humble, performing in a work that can only be described as a veritable mosh of contradictions seeking to entertain and inspire and make you feel something, whether it be good, bad, or indifferent.

Yves Klein

2010-10-20T09:00:00.002-04:00

If it's not apparent from the blog, I'll go ahead and reveal to you that I love color. I have over 50 shades of nail polish just because all the little pots of paint being right at the stretch of my hand make me ridiculously happy. I decided to view the Yves Klein exhibit earlier this year strictly for this reason. When I learned of Klein's use of monochromatic color in much of his work, I had to see it for myself. His most famous works RE 46, RE 1, and MG 9 sold for $4,720,000, $6,716,000, and $21,000,000, respectively, at Christie's. The photos don't do the works justice, so if you have the opportunity I highly recommend you visit the next or nearest exhibit of his work.

MG 9

RE 46

Yves Klein, French artist, 1928- 1962

Thrifty Tuesday

2010-10-19T09:00:00.002-04:00

This past weekend as I was ambling around the various furniture stores around town I happened to look up and find myself standing outside one of the DC area's premier consignment shops, Secondi. I was compelled (what?!? I was compelled!) to head inside and I am oh so glad I did as these lovely Chanel shoes called to me from the nook where they were patiently awaiting my arrival.

Editor's Note: Minky and the Chanel shoes plan to live a long, happy, and prosperous life together. We want to thank everyone for their well wishes. *insert giggle here*

Bar Rings

2010-10-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

This trend has been around for a while now but I've finally decided to take the bait and make it Minky Betancourt approved. Of all the bar rings on the retail market these are two of my favorites and represent two extremes: really simple and really fabulous.

I'm like a bird...

2010-10-17T12:50:00.001-04:00

When I saw this feather boa, not only did I have an immediate fashion stroke but at the same time Nelly Furtado's, 'I'm Like A Bird' started playing in my head and I visualized myself flying away. I know I always say I need all the fabulous things in the world in my life, but I really, really, REALLY feel like I need this feather boa. I just know it would make the world a more beautiful place if I had it.


Ann Demeulemeester Red Feather Boa $336

Peacock Obsession

2010-10-16T10:59:00.002-04:00

This season along with the color purple, I am in love with all things peacock. Today I've decided to share a fashion translation of my peacock obsession. I know you'll love it as much as I do!

Peacock Obsession by aposhgirl

Purple Reign

2010-10-15T10:30:00.005-04:00

Purple is the new black! Well, maybe not for everyone but it is for me. I'm in purple overdrive, incorporating it into every aspect of my life from my cosmetics to my accessories and even in my work! Join me as I dance in the purple reign, er, rain.

Talullah Tu Cocktail Ring

West Elm Pillows

O.P.I. Funky Donkey

Pashmina

I've got my eye on Frye

2010-10-14T09:30:00.004-04:00

I've been stalking these boots on the Frye website since early September. I'm hoping that my stalking will pay off and that these boots will be arriving on my doorstep any day now! Here's to hoping!

Georgia O'Keeffe

2010-10-13T09:51:00.002-04:00

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of viewing the Georgia O'Keeffe exhibit at The Phillips Collection. I left the exhibit feeling so inspired. Here are a few of my favorites.

Georgia O'Keeffe

Thrifty Tuesday

2010-10-12T12:50:00.001-04:00

Recently, I've turned into a scavenger, of the thrift/consignment store variety. I've found some incredible treasures and I feel it's only right that I share them with you here as this week's Thrifty Tuesday. Enjoy!

I'm Every Woman...

2010-10-11T13:14:00.000-04:00

A couple of months ago, I attended a fashion event at Neiman Marcus in Washington, DC. As all ladies know, no trip to Neimans is complete without a stop in the shoe department. Now I've fallen in love in Neiman's shoe department many a time but this time it was different. This love knocked me off my feet and still has my head spinning months later. I swear with these shoes, I would be a new woman. With these shoes, I would be Betty Crocker, Michelle Obama, Barbara Streisand, Lady Gaga, Dita Von Teese and Jessica Rabbit all rolled up in one. With these shoes, I would be every woman...

A Whole Lotta Precious Time...

2010-04-01T12:20:00.003-04:00

As the saying goes, time waits for no man and I have never been more aware of how quickly time passes than as of late. Can you believe it's April already?!? We're four months into 2010 but it seems that New Year's was just yesterday! Alas, let me not belabor the point as Father Time is, in fact, at work. Last week while doing a bit of research, I stumbled across this lovely hourglass and thought it just too cool not to give it some "shine time" on my blog. I have also included pictures of several other timepieces that I love! Happy Thursday!

Ikepod Hourglass
by Marc Newson
60 minute counter
high grade glass
sand that consists of nickel plated nanoballs
gold plated nanoball version also available (see image below)

In search of the perfect something...

2010-03-31T09:48:00.005-04:00

With all the upcoming April birthdays, I feel like I've been running around like a madwoman searching for a suitable gift for each person. If you guys are anything like me, it can be a bit stressful trying to find that perfect something. Here are a few of my favorites I've come across while on the hunt:

Flowering Twig Pencil
7"l
carved from Mango Wood
click here for more info

Gulping Guppy Ring Dish
Brass

click here for more info

Fortune Cookie
holds placecards, notes, or small presents

Silver or Gold Plated
click here for more info

Lovi Heart Postcard

Wood

Assembly Required

click here for more info

Moleskine Pocket Plain Notebook

80 acid-free pages

Moleskin history inside

3.5 x 5.5 inches

click here for more info

Decision Maker

Metal

3.5" Diameter

click here for more info

Paper Me...

2010-03-28T15:47:00.000-04:00

Something not too many people know about me is that I love, love, LOVE (like really LOVE) stationary products. I have a a million different notebooks, planners, thank you cards, holiday cards, and sweet little sentiment cards. There's just something about sending someone a personalized note or card in the mail that just makes me happy. Maybe it has to do with today's take on communication, between texting and summing everything up with 140 characters on Twitter, it seems no one takes the time to actually make a lasting impression or to delve into the intention or thought behind a given act. Everything is all business, we want it fast, we want it succinct, we want it NOW. Omit the extra flourishes. Get to the point and move on. Enter Heather Adams of wakeybaby. I had the pleasure of meeting Heather at the LadiesDC Spring Fling at L2 lounge in Georgetown. The event highlighted up and coming women-owned businesses that offer a varied group of goods and services. It was a great opportunity to network and learn about some really phenomenal products and services. I was delighted with all the ladies and their products and made sure to take note of several for future reference. Given my obsession with stationary products, you can imagine the giddy feeling in my stomach when I stumbled upon wakeybaby. Wakeybaby is a card company that specializes in making custom mommy cards, baby announcements, thank you and holiday cards, shower invitations and business cards. Heather Adams is the owner and designer and her designs (see photos below) are absolutely adorable and timeless. They are the type of announcements and cards that even after the event has long passed you hang onto because they're just too beautiful to throw away. I was so impressed with Heather's work, we're already in talks to design my next business card!

Salt and Pepper Remix...

2010-03-27T08:00:00.018-04:00

A cool and inventive take on the classic salt and pepper shaker:

"Balloon Shakers"

by Masayuki Kurokawa

Salt and Pepper Shakers but also used

for other seasonings (see image)

Handblown glass by Shotoku Glass Co.

Click here to purchase

Mark Rothko

2010-03-26T10:41:00.002-04:00

Today I am in an "artsy" mood, so I thought I would share a few works from one of my favorite artists, Mark Rothko. It seems when it comes to Rothko's work, most either hate it or love it. Maybe it's my love of color, but I'm of the latter group. Check out the pics and decide for yourself.

Mark Rothko (1903-1970)
born Marcus Rothkowitz
Latvian born American painter

classified as Abstract Expressionist although he rejected the label

his most famous works are considered to belong to a genre known as color field painting

Scent-sational Vessels

2010-03-25T12:52:00.001-04:00

Today I have yet another confession to make, I am obsessed with perfume bottles. Purchasing or receiving a new perfume for me is just as much about the design of the bottle as it is about the fragrance. I'm not sure if it's the glass, the weight of the bottle, or if it's just knowing that inside that unique little bottle that fits in the palm of your hand is a fragrance that can turn you into whomever you'd like to be. What's inside that bottle has lasting effects on you and everyone that you encounter while wearing it. One whiff of a woman wearing Chanel No.5 takes me back to my childhood watching my mom get dressed for work. Paris by YSL evokes memories of silk camisoles, thigh high pantyhose, high heels, and mom in the mirror putting on lipstick with a lip brush. But this post is not about the actual fragrance. This post is an homage to the bottles that contain those fragrances. I've decided to start a collection of my own personal bottles to which I add whichever new (and old) fragrances that are in my fragrance closet. Here are a few bottles that I love:

Nothing "messy" about it...

2010-03-23T23:12:00.002-04:00

With all the creative ways to decorate your walls, i.e. mirrors, paintings, fabric, photos, sconces, paper, memory boards, sculpture, etc, there's no excuse for bare walls. Jessica Kestler of Messicakes gives you even less reason to have a drab boring space with her modern wall sculptures. These sculptures are hand painted acrylic with a glass smooth surface and are super cool! The company is based out of Indianapolis and the pieces range from upwards of $500 to as low as $65. I saw at least 5 pieces I wanted to order on the spot, now if only I had a bare wall to hang them on!

"Bumper to Bumper"

"Flashing Lights"

"True Blue Sculpture"

"Modern One Piece"

"The View"

Just Because...

2010-03-17T12:16:00.004-04:00

Just Because I Woke Up,
Just Because I Slept,
Just Because the Sun was Shining,
Just Because it Rained...

Just Because You Smiled,
Just Because You Frowned,
Just Because of Joy,
Just Because of Pain...

i am happy today,
Just Because...

Just Because I Have a Voice,
Just Because I Have a Vision,
Just Because I Feel Free,
Just Because I am Sane.

i am happy today.

Fab Find #2...

2010-03-16T15:56:00.002-04:00

Today's Fab Find is something I'm super excited about...reusable shopping bags from flip + tumble!!! Yes, I'm somewhat of a nerd and I don't care who knows it. My reusable shopping bags make me happy! Although often times, I find myself stopping at the grocery store only to realize I've left my reusable bags at home and then I spend the rest of my shopping experience feeling extremely guilty. When this happens, I usually abate my guilt by stuffing everything into my handbag and/or carrying it all in my hands...insert kanye shrug. With this latest find from flip + tumble, it will be much easier for me to keep up with my reusable bags as they retail a line of bags that roll into small cushy balls that I can drop in my handbag, stuff in my glove compartment, or if I'm feeling fancy, carry on my shoulder! And they're at a great low price...allowing me to be thrifty, earth-conscious, and fashionable all at once! (Cue in happy dance)

Valentinos, bows, and toes...oh my!

2010-03-15T16:29:00.001-04:00

So if you haven't guessed by now, I'll go ahead and clue you in that I'm very much a girly-girl. I love all things feminine. That's not to say there's any love lost for that which is masculine but my heart speeds up at the thought of flowers, chocolates, and um, shoes. Today's post is about a pair of lovely little Valentino rubber flip flops I ran across at Intermix while out shopping with a good friend last week. They were a bit on the impractical side at $275 (gulp) but upon further research, I found a site selling them for $180 (woooooohoooooo!). Warning: they're very girly!

A "Scroll" Down Memory Lane...

2010-03-01T10:50:00.011-05:00

Last week as I was doing some research for a few new things I have in the works for my business, I happened to have a chance to browse through the latest Traditional Home magazine. To say that I fell in love with the CharityWorks Green House featured in the magazine would be an understatement--a serious understatement. Having flipped through the pages several times, I took a moment to actually read the article that accompanied the photos and to my surprise, well...not really, who should be mentioned as the lead designer of the project, none other than designer extraordinaire, Barry Dixon!

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Dixon at his annual holiday party in 2009 and I must tell you this man is every bit as fabulous and kind as anything you've ever read about him or any of his work you've ever seen. And his house!!! The house...is simply put, AMAZING, beautifully restored without taking away from any of the homes original vintage charm. I can still remember the anxiety I felt the day of the party as I was getting ready to, to...eh...how should I put this...I guess from the anxiety pit in my stomach I could say..."hold court with the King"...which with all the care I took in getting dressed, I surely must have thought he might proclaim "off with her head" should one strand of hair be out of place. But to my relief, that was not the case and we arrived to find Mr. Dixon at the door, graciously greeting each guest, all 500 of us, with a smile, a hug, and a handshake. I could go on and on about the Christmas decorations, the tree in each of the 7 (or was it 9 bedrooms), the food spread...the cookie room, the cheese room, the wine room, the meat room, etc...I could go and on, but I guess the best compliment I can give is to say I don't think I have ever been more impressed. Mr. Dixon is truly a class act. The use of color and texture in his work is brilliant. The "appropriateness" of his design philosophy is genius. However, I've never been one to force my opinions on others, so don't take my word for it, take a scroll and decide for yourself. Happy March!

Mini flies the "Coupe"...

2010-02-21T19:56:00.011-05:00

To say that I love the Mini brand is, well for those that know me, quite obvious. For the longest, it was my dream car. I would visit the Mini website daily and design various models. I even went so far as to name my designs, print them and add them to my vision board at home and my desk at work. I kept one of my designs (I named it Britney) on the nightstand by my bed and there was not a morning that I didn't wake up and smile at her nor a night that I fell asleep without taking a long look to ensure she would be in my dreams (corny I know but to each her own). Fast forward some years and I now have that Mini (by God, the Law of Attraction works). And I guess one could say I am an enthusiast. I have key-chains, hats, apparel, several apps on my phone, and I live in the owner's lounge. Given this enthusiasm, you can imagine my excitement when I learned of two new Mini concept cars (pictured below) that are in consideration for a move from concept to reality. Happy Motoring! Vroom, Vroom!