New Years Eve Party

As you may have noticed I took a little break from updating my blog.  I have been enjoying the holidays with family and took a trip up to Vermont to do a little skiing.  It was perfect timing since we were hit with the first big blizzard of the winter season.  Now, I'm looking forward to the New Year's Eve festivities and have some great party pieces that I recommend to start 2011 off on the right foot. 

The "Tessie" dress by Alice + Olivia is the ideal party dress.  It's absolutely feminine and flirty.  It makes you feel a bit like a ballerina with its use of tulle.  A great pair of gemstone earrings will complement the dress but I'll get to them later.  You can find this on Bloomingdales.com for $440.00.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=505698&CategoryID=21449

I would pair the above dress with a much tougher looking shoe that what's shown on the above model.  I like the mix of girly chic with tough rocker chic.  Camilla Skovgaard makes some of the best shoes hands down.  They are always aggressive and will get you noticed.  They are $495.00 and available at Elizabeth-Charles.com.

 

http://elizabeth-charles.com/cs15.html

If you've been following the blog you'll see that I have a thing for big bold jewelry.  I LOVE these earrings by Tacori.  They have been on my wish list for quite some time.  The colors are warm and playful.  They are set in 18k rose gold and feature a pear shaped rose amethyst and round prasiolite.  I think they are the perfect accent for the whole ensemble.  Price is available upon request.

http://tacori.com/Fine-Jewelry/Diamond-Earrings#/SE100P1213

Merry Christmas

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.  I hope you all are enjoying the holiday with your family and loved ones.  Take this time to reflect on what you have and how blessed we all are. 

Best,
Lauren

Coffee or Tea?

I have a fascination with coffee tables.  I wish I had a few living rooms so that I could effectively collect more of them.  They may be used as dining tables, ottomans, works of art, or just to display your coffee table books.  The next three are my favorites of the moment.

Cement might be thought of a material used for sidewalks but it can be a modern and strong base for your home furnishings.  It's durable for your kitchen countertops.  CB2 has a coffee table with a buffed and light waxed finish.  No scrapes here.  It's eco-friendly made and can be used both indoors and out.  Get yours for $399.00.

http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=114&f=4977

This beauty has the base of a sofa but the top of your regular coffee table.  Plus, with its levels it creates a bit of storage.  This is designed by M. Lipparini and is available through momentoitalia.com.  Price is available upon request.  It's true Italian design.

http://www.momentoitalia.com/tutti%20file/homepage.htm

You can't go wrong with glass and silver.  It's so clean and fresh.  I think it's best to not put anything on top of this table and just let it shine on it's own.  It's on sale for $699.00 through AllCoffeeTables.com. 

http://www.allcoffeetables.com/Chintaly-Imports-SABRINA-CT-T-SABRINA-CT-B-CNI1314.html

Warm Weather Getaway

For those of you who are lucky enough to be heading south for the winter I've found some spot-on items that you must pack in your carry on luggage.  And even if you're not going anywhere tropical for a while you can just pick these up and save them until summer rolls around - approximatively 6 months from now!  But, I digress.

I love bikinis.  I've never really been a one-piece bathing suit kind of girl.  I just think it's sexier to have a 2 piece.  This one by Lisa Marie Fernandez is absolutely beautiful.  The colors are pretty and it almost looks like it's trimmed in a natural leather but it's 100% neoprene.  You can find it on her website for $345.00.

http://shop.lisamariefernandez.com/index.php?product=2011+RES037

A beach towel is a must.  This next one is not practical in the monetary sense but who cares when it is so mesmerizing.  Pucci makes this and will run you $665 but you're worth it aren't you?  Net-a-porter.com has got you covered.

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/103236

Valentino makes the most feminine shoes (and clothes for that matter).  I like girly touches like bows and ruffles.  I'm dying over these jelly thongs.  That bow is flirtatious and fun.  It's makes the day at the beach so much more special.  They are available at Saks.com in solid Red (as shown) and black, and a printed lace in nude/black.  All are $295.00.

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446381238&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492713496&bmUID=iQ6GoxI&ev19=3:17

Diamonds and Roses

If you've been following my blog you will know by now that I love things that sparkle.  A great piece of jewelry can instantly make me feel better.  And if I had this ring it would be one that I would go for again and again.  It's perfect on its own but would look great with the diamond stack rings I figured in my earlier posts.  It's by Patek Phillippe who's known more for their watches.  This ring is in a beautiful 18k rose gold and set on each side with diamond chips (54 in total - about 1/2 carat).  It's hard to take your eyes off of it.  True love indeed.  It's available at their stores or online at cachetcollections.com for $7,200.00.

http://www.cachetcollections.com/system/scripts/results_big.cgi?product=275.9748/1R4&refer=gb

Weekend Chic

Who doesn't love the weekend?  It's a time to catch up on your personal life, relax, and get out of the 9-5 mindset.  You'll need some chic items to reach for though so you can get all of this accomplished fabulously.  This is my perfect weekend outfit.

On those chilly winter days nothing feels cozier than a sweater.  I think this shawl collar sweater coat from Vince is amazing.  You'll look pulled together and won't sacrifice an ounce of comfort.  It's available on shopbop.com for $375.00.

http://www.shopbop.com/sweater-coat-vince/vp/v=1/845524441886411.htm

I love the look of a henley shirt.  It would be a great base layer for the sweater coat shown above but equally great on its own.  This is a perfect example from C&C California.  The ribbed jersey will feel so soft against your skin.  It sells for $58 at shopbop.com.

http://www.shopbop.com/elbow-sleeve-scoop-neck-henley/vp/v=1/845524441871701.htm

Blank Denim is my new favorite jeans line.  I have quite a number of pairs.  Mostly because they fit me so well.  And they are half the price of traditional designer denim.  It gives me double the reason to get more than one pair.  I think a skinny black pair of jeans is so necessary.  These are the perfect ankle length to wear with either heels, ballet flats, or boots.  They are on Karmaloop.com for $60.

http://www.karmaloop.com/Products.aspx?ProductID=103405&VendorCode=BLN&iskazbah=false

This year I wanted a warm pair of boots other than Uggs to get me through the winter.  I just picked up these Ralph Lauren Collection shearling lined duck boots.  I plan on wearing them in the park to walk my dog, to Vermont when I go skiing, and to commute to work.  But, more often than not they will be my go to boot for the weekends.  They are a little retro but also modern and I love that.  They are on sale for $249.00.

http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4342736&cp=2943768.2018029&ab=ln_nodivision_cs8_shoes&pg=2&parentPage=family

And finally, to top off this whole look, I want to wear a piece of jewelry to bring up the casual quotient a notch.  I love what J.Crew is doing on a whole but their jewelry is just outstanding.  It's fun costume jewelry that's extremely well made.  This art deco necklace is by Lulu Frost for J.Crew.  The double chains can be removed so that it can also be worn as a choker.  And the double chains can be used as a bracelet.  So, really this is 3 pieces in one.  I love anything that gives you so many options.  It's available for $185.00.

http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/jewelry/necklaces/PRDOVR~41201/41201.jsp

Buy One Get Two

Jeans are part of our daily life.  They are the bread and butter of our wardrobe.  I can't believe it took so long for someone to invent a pair that works double duty.  These skinnies are reversible.  They come in a variety of colors and finishes.  I like the grey pair.  One side is a light ash grey and the other a charcoal grey.  For $158 they are priced about the same as your average pair of jeans.  Just think of it as a two for one.  

http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=BLEU-WP5&c=

Cold Weather Getaway

Tonight while I was going for a run through the park with my dog under the snowflakes I was inspired to write about cold weather getaways.  I'm going on my annual ski vacation at the end of this year and need some cute pieces to bring along.  Even if you don't ski you can still be one of the cutest apres-ski bunnies at the resort.

My friend and coworker Minda got the cutest faux fur trapper hat.  It's sure to keep your head warm which is important during the chilliest of winter days.  Unfortunately, the one she got at the Gap is no longer available but I found a very cute substitute in the same price range.  This version from Urban Outfitters will only set you back $38 and would look amazing at the outdoor fire pit at the center of the ski village.

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?itemdescription=true&itemCount=80&startValue=1&selectedProductColor=&sortby=&id=18919712&parentid=W_ACC_HATS&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,+product.marketingPriority&navCount=855&navAction=poppushpush&color=&pushId=W_ACC_HATS&popId=WOMENS_ACCESSORIES&prepushId=&selectedProductSize=

If you want the most comfortable boots which also give you great protection in the snow than look no further than these moon boots by Marc Jacobs.  They are so outrageously fabulous.  I would pair mine with a heavy weight set of black leggings.  Just because you need snow boots doesn't mean you can't be stylish.  Net-a-porter.com has got these for $295.00.

Need something other than your boyfriend to snuggle up to?  How about a plaid wool cardigan hoodie?  This one from Rugby is perfect after that long day of skiing.  The plaid just screams rustic log cabin.  Though it very well would work in your casual city wear as well.  This is $198.00.

http://www.rugby.com/shop/item.aspx?productId=4489311&categoryId=10946921&cp=3870665

Splurge vs. Steal - The Camel Coat

This winter's IT outerwear item is the camel coat.  It will be a coat you'll go to each year.  One that should be in your arsenal of toasty coverups.  I have found two great examples on opposite sides of the price spectrum.  Both are not your classic topper and fit in today's modern lifestyle.

Mackage is a Canadian company which makes superb coats for men and women.  You can be sure that any coat from them will make you stand out in the boring sea of classic styles.  The Leigh coat has amazing knit sleeves and collar with a buttery soft leather belt.  It's $650.00 on the Mackage website.

http://www.mackage.com/app/webroot/shop/index.php?menuby=fab&langue=en&devise=USD&genre=F&coll=fall10&cat=wools&dets=LEIGH&detsc=27&pg=0

The Gregg Coat by BB Dakota is very avant garde.  You can be sure you won't see anybody else walking down the street in this number.  It's a wrap which is also reined in with a leather belt as the above coat.  It has a loose fit which makes it great for layering.  You can find this beauty on needsupply.com for only $120.00

http://needsupply.com/womens/outerwear/gregg-coat.html

Come here stud

Crystal studs take even the most boring everyday objects to new heights.  They bring a smile to your face because they're so pretty and irresistible.   Don't you agree?

Next time someone asks you for a pen whip this baby out.  It's delightfully girly and something Barbie might have.  It comes in 4 different colors - Black, Gold, Pink, and Silver.  Bloomingdales sells the Juicy Couture pen for $38.00.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=508192&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

Change your ho hum morning routine into something exciting.  Tarte has come up with the most fabulous eyelash curlers ever!  The holder is fully encrusted with purple crystals.  They are only available for a limited time so you better hurry.  At $15 you wont be able to resist buying them.

http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-limited-edition-eyelash-curler

Hitting the Nail on the Head

Something about a nailhead on a piece of furniture is just so beautiful.  I think I like the juxtaposition between tough and soft.

This ottoman is so fresh in white.  It may not be the ideal ottoman for someone with kids or pets but it's sure pretty.  It's $399.00 from ZGallerie.com

http://www.zgallerie.com/p-5818-linden-ottoman-buckwheat.aspx

This sofa is so inviting - the tufting, the lush velvet, and rich navy color.  You're free to experiment with a variety of pillow colors and textures which lets the couch pop.  It's $1995.00 from Room Service.

http://www.roomservicestore.com/store/sofas_and_arm_chairs/nautical_navy_sinatra_sofa.html

This chair has a secret.  It's really a recliner.  Genius!  It still has a very refined and tailored look while giving the comfort you crave.  And I'm digging the light linen color options.  This is $1690.00 from QCollection.com.

http://www.qcollection.com/retail-studio-kiss-my-arse/

Financially Sound Makeup

When you find a good deal you shouldn't pass it up.  I love high end cosmetics as many nyc girls do.  But, there are definitely some steals out there.  You just have to look.  Not every product that's cheap in price is cheap in quality.  These are some beauty products which satisfy the beauty lover and saver in everyone.

Sometimes I just can't be bothered getting a manicure.  There are a few reasons for this.  1. I don't find it as enjoyable as a pedicure.  2. Its gotten really expensive.  3. My nails chip the next day anyway.  When I found these Sally Hansen Nail Shields I was suspicious at first.  Would they work?  Yes, they do.  The whole application process takes about 5-7 minutes.  It's really easy to do (plus, zero drying time - my favorite part).  And the natural palette is very wearable.  They say it lasts for 14 days but it's more like 7.  That's ok with me though since they only cost about $7 at your local drugstore.

http://sallyhansen.com/product.cfm?product=396

This is the Winter Wake Up eye palette from Pixi Beauty.  It contains 12 neutral eyeshadows in a mix of matte and shimmer finishes.  You can easily wear these to work or punch it up for cocktails after work.  And it's still small enough to fit in your makeup bag.  It's only $9.99 at Target.

http://www.target.com/Pixi-Winter-Wakeup-Eyes-Shade/dp/B0040VVFQI/ref=sc_qi_detaillink

One of my favorite moisturizers is also my favorite daily sunscreen.  It's Anthelios SX SPF15 from La Roche Posay and is found at Duane Reade.  Years ago it could only be found in Europe but eventually the FDA approved it for sale here in the states.  I've been using it ever since.  It's light enough that you won't become too greasy and heavy enough for those tough dry winters.  It sells for $30.

http://www.laroche-posay.us/_us/_en/consumer/catalog/ByType/Dry/anthelios-sx-daily-moisturizer.htm

Twinkle Twinkle

Want to add some sparkle to your dwelling?  These beautiful additions will add a luxe feel to any place you call home.

This doughnut shaped chandelier by Schonbek is breathtaking.  It glows from within and casts a warm radiance.  This would make a great light fixture over your dining room table.

http://www.schonbek.com/.web/sch_pro3.html?c=CA2525&m=12 

This picture of a Faceted Crystal Globe by Manglam Arts doesn't do it justice.  It's meant to have a tealight inside.  The flickering of the candle makes each crystal radiate light.  They look best when grouped together as a pair or more.  It would be fabulous on the mantle with the lights dimmed down low.  They are about a foot high and in diameter.  They are $100 and available at Cambria Cove.

http://www.cambriacove.com/faceted-crystal-globe-luminaria-by-manglam-arts/p1099/index.pro?method=search

Some self decoration

For me the last step before I head out my door is to add some jewelry to my outfit.  It's that finishing touch which adds a little extra oomph.  I love cocktail rings, statement necklaces, sparkly earrings, and everything else.  I have a collection of both fine and costume jewelry.  And many times I mix both types together.  I think the following are great pieces for both every day and night.

A bold necklace is a standout way to make an entrance.  It can simply be the only piece that you'll wear.  I've found for me what works is a larger piece rather than a delicate chain.  But, this version by Giles & Brother has a good mix of both.  Many tiny chains with a large tube and sparkly ring have so many elements working together.  The ring can be removed and worn separately.  In addition, the mixing of metals makes it very versatile.  It's on sale at shopbop.com for $126.00.

http://www.shopbop.com/single-rhinestone-pipe-necklace-giles/vp/v=1/845524441875155.htm

As mentioned above I absolutely ADORE cocktail rings.  I die for them actually.  This stunner by Kara Ackerman gives you a lot of bang for your buck.  The beautiful yellow topaz is warm and sophisticated.  The checkerboard faceting enhances the stone and catches the light with every move you make.  You can find it at karaackerman.com for $400.00.

 

http://karaackerman.bigcartel.com/product/new-i-kara-ackerman-i-yellow-topaz-square-cut-cocktail-ring

A dangley pair of chandelier earrings fits the bill for that hot little number you have in your closet.  These branch earrings remind me of coral.  I could see these with a diaphanous dress especially on a tropical vacation.  You can find these on vivre.com for $375.00.

 

http://www.vivre.com/product/Crystal_Branch_Earrings_

 

Holiday Party Style

It's finally upon us.  The holiday party season.  It can be daunting to think of what to wear to each event to make it special and unique.  I've come up with some great pieces that will get you through the end of the year and then some.

Faux fur is very big right now.  I'm opting for a dressy chubby jacket instead of the vests you've seen so often in the stores.  It's a great way to keep warm while looking fabulous in your party attire.  I always disliked being dressed up to the nine's only to have to cover up my cute look with a basic wool coat.  This solves my dilemma.  This black faux fur jacket is by Aqua which is sold exclusively at Bloomingdales.  It's on sale for $120.32.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=496295&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

Everyone needs a pair of killer heels for evening.  Nothing could be more special that these crystal encrusted peep toe ones by Christian Louboutin.  They are made in a gorgeous nude mesh with crystals on the upper and heel.  They may not remember the dress you wore to the party but they'll definitely remember these shoes.  They are selling for $2445.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

 

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446371770&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492709487&bmUID=iOS1WKX&ev19=1:1

It annoys me when I see a girl out for a night on the town and she's toting some enormous bag that's suited for daytime.  Why bother getting all decked if you're going to be held down by the weight of your purse?  Clutches are a key piece to every fashionistas arsenal.  If I had the money I would buy the Byzantine Queen Skull crocodile box clutch from the late Alexander McQueen.  I'm giddy just thinking about it.  A girl can dream can't she?  It's $9,750.00 on Net-a-porter.com.

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/96058

Ruffles just make me happy.  Nothing is more feminine that a cascading ribbon of ruffles going down your frock.  That's why this dress make me overjoyed.  The color may be a neutral grey but the ruffles are uplifting.  This is by Camilla and Marc and is $790.00 on shopbop.com

http://www.shopbop.com/asabi-frock-camilla-marc/vp/v=1/845524441886071.htm?folderID=2534374302063655&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall

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