I had so much fun bringing you February Finds! 26 days of things I love! You can check out each and every one of them here.
I have a couple more "teaser" posts for my new series that I am starting on Monday that will post throughout the weekend. Other wise I am taking the weekend OFF from blogging!
See you on Monday for some fun!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Fashion Friday... snakeskin flats!
I fell in love with these snakeskin flats straight away when I found them on piperlime yesterday! I just love a dash of orange... and snakeskin accessories are HOT, HOT, HOT for spring and summer.
Dolce Vita Sally - Orange snake printed leather, $69.99 (was $100)
Today was one of those days that while there is still a chill in the air you can also feel the smallest tinge of spring - and for that I am so thankful! Here's an outfit for a gorgeous spring day!
spring in the air! - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Dolce Vita Sally - Orange snake printed leather, $69.99 (was $100)
Today was one of those days that while there is still a chill in the air you can also feel the smallest tinge of spring - and for that I am so thankful! Here's an outfit for a gorgeous spring day!
spring in the air! - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Thursday, February 26, 2009
February Finds... 26!
This spring I am so craving clutches. Everywhere I turn I want to buy this one or that one! Maybe because they are so much less money than handbags...
This one I am totally loving. Blue is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, not sure exactly why - but it could just be the ruffles on this little cutie pulling me in! Plus, right now is is marked down to $29.99 (from $48.00). Sweet!
Chinese Laundry Ruffle Clutch - Navy
This one I am totally loving. Blue is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, not sure exactly why - but it could just be the ruffles on this little cutie pulling me in! Plus, right now is is marked down to $29.99 (from $48.00). Sweet!
Chinese Laundry Ruffle Clutch - Navy
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
february Finds... 25!
I love me some uggs. I wear them, well, probably too much these days. But it's cold and wet and cold! Enter... these little guys. Ugg wellies? I heart these. No more suede stains from snow and salt! It's the best of all weather boot wear!
work it wednesday!
Today I am going to mix things up a bit here for work it wednesday. A reader, my hairstylist and friend of mine, Summer (hi Summer!) recently asked if I could work on some outfit ideas for the more conservative women out there. Summer wants to take her mom spring shopping for some updated looks, but wants to avoid uber trendy stylings for her mom - and rightly so.
When shopping for items that don't fall in the trendy category (which we outlined a bit yesterday) but still on a budget the mall is a great place to start - just don't fall into the trap of buying what is "screaming" to you in the displays and windows. Dig deeper to find classic and conservative pieces that will stand the test of time.
conservative. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
My tips (as highlighted above) for finding classic and conservative pieces are as follows:
1. Find wardrobe pieces that flatter the waist (not hips) and the neckline. Wide leg pants are a great way to flatter your waist - make sure you choose a medium weight denim or woven material for the optimum figure-flattery. Necklines that are boat, scoop, or a slight v all highlight the shoulders and the top of the decollete - and no lower.
2. Choose form fitting items. Although drapey and, conversely, tight clothing may be trendy or "what the kids are wearing" - it doesn't mean it is appropriate for all body types or styles. Choosing a tee or cardigan (like pictured) that hints at the curves of the body but doesn't necessarily show them works well for the conservative set.
3. Let your personal style and the trends (as you feel comfortable) show through in the accessories you choose. This is key: up-to-date shoes, handbags, earrings, bangles and belts are all great ways to spice up the classics. These items can give your outfits a youthful appeal while still being appropriate.
4. Find shoes that are practical but beautiful. You can do anything in a kitten-heel or a flat. Walk the dog, grocery shop, carpool, lunch or dinner dates. Use the versatility of these styles to your advantage!
5. Always have an absolutely fabulous dress waiting in the wings. This is pretty much a given for no matter what your style. But a flirty and feminine dress that you absolutely love will pay you dividends. Always.
I hope these tips come in handy Summer - and of course to all my readers!
When shopping for items that don't fall in the trendy category (which we outlined a bit yesterday) but still on a budget the mall is a great place to start - just don't fall into the trap of buying what is "screaming" to you in the displays and windows. Dig deeper to find classic and conservative pieces that will stand the test of time.
conservative. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
My tips (as highlighted above) for finding classic and conservative pieces are as follows:
1. Find wardrobe pieces that flatter the waist (not hips) and the neckline. Wide leg pants are a great way to flatter your waist - make sure you choose a medium weight denim or woven material for the optimum figure-flattery. Necklines that are boat, scoop, or a slight v all highlight the shoulders and the top of the decollete - and no lower.
2. Choose form fitting items. Although drapey and, conversely, tight clothing may be trendy or "what the kids are wearing" - it doesn't mean it is appropriate for all body types or styles. Choosing a tee or cardigan (like pictured) that hints at the curves of the body but doesn't necessarily show them works well for the conservative set.
3. Let your personal style and the trends (as you feel comfortable) show through in the accessories you choose. This is key: up-to-date shoes, handbags, earrings, bangles and belts are all great ways to spice up the classics. These items can give your outfits a youthful appeal while still being appropriate.
4. Find shoes that are practical but beautiful. You can do anything in a kitten-heel or a flat. Walk the dog, grocery shop, carpool, lunch or dinner dates. Use the versatility of these styles to your advantage!
5. Always have an absolutely fabulous dress waiting in the wings. This is pretty much a given for no matter what your style. But a flirty and feminine dress that you absolutely love will pay you dividends. Always.
I hope these tips come in handy Summer - and of course to all my readers!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
February Finds... 24!
With spring... and "leg" season, just around the corner, I don't know about you - but I need some color on my skin!
I am always so hesitant to use self tanners, because I see what they have done to other people (streaks, orange skin, smell, etc) - but I saw this, Aveeno Continuous Radiance, highly rated in a magazine last spring and decided to give it a try! I had a business trip in April to Florida where I would be baring legs and arms and didn't want to scare people away with my ghost like skin!
I started using it daily a week before I left... and I was so impressed that just like it promised, my skin slowly and subtly looked more bronzed (er, healthy)! At about $8 - it was one of the cheaper options at the store as well! I also liked that it came in two shades for greater personalization. (pale and paler... well, not really, but you get the idea!)
Do you use self-tanners? Bronzers? Which is your favorite?
I am always so hesitant to use self tanners, because I see what they have done to other people (streaks, orange skin, smell, etc) - but I saw this, Aveeno Continuous Radiance, highly rated in a magazine last spring and decided to give it a try! I had a business trip in April to Florida where I would be baring legs and arms and didn't want to scare people away with my ghost like skin!
I started using it daily a week before I left... and I was so impressed that just like it promised, my skin slowly and subtly looked more bronzed (er, healthy)! At about $8 - it was one of the cheaper options at the store as well! I also liked that it came in two shades for greater personalization. (pale and paler... well, not really, but you get the idea!)
Do you use self-tanners? Bronzers? Which is your favorite?
speaking of classics...
I must, just MUST buy a white blazer/jacket this spring. This one from JCrew is fabulous... I love the unique, yet timeless, cut. Perhaps a bit more than I would like to spend at $98 (from $148)... but still. It's the best one I have found so far...
Don't you just love the classic lines of the jacket juxtaposed to the trendy distressed denim it is paired with? I have a one track mind today...
trend theory...
for the most part, my closet is full of what are for the most part solid classics. blazers in black, brown and khaki. high end denim in straight, boot and wide leg cuts. sweaters in various styles made of quality materials in brown, black and grey. these staples are essential for all wardrobes and often I find that the best of my classics stand the test of time. when you have a blazer that still "works" five years later, you know you made a great purchase to start.
but of course there has to be some fun in there some where right? for me, that is when the trends enter... I prefer to buy trendy items tops, accessories, funky bottoms and on occasion, a trendy shoe - all on the cheap. this is my trend theory. that's why places like forever 21, old navy, etc (mall stores!) are my go-to places to shop!
so use stores that are on the trendy side to add spice to your wardrobe on a dime.
take these jeans for instance: I've been eyeing a similar pair in the "pricey" range... but at $24.95, I think I'll be taking this trend home on the cheap first.
How do you balance trend and classic in your wardrobe?
but of course there has to be some fun in there some where right? for me, that is when the trends enter... I prefer to buy trendy items tops, accessories, funky bottoms and on occasion, a trendy shoe - all on the cheap. this is my trend theory. that's why places like forever 21, old navy, etc (mall stores!) are my go-to places to shop!
so use stores that are on the trendy side to add spice to your wardrobe on a dime.
take these jeans for instance: I've been eyeing a similar pair in the "pricey" range... but at $24.95, I think I'll be taking this trend home on the cheap first.
How do you balance trend and classic in your wardrobe?
Monday, February 23, 2009
February Finds... 23!
Whenever I find a new etsy seller that I just love, I quickly add them to my favorites. The internet is full of so many bunny trails, it is virtually impossible for me to even remember how or why I happen upon them.
But when I found this seller. I knew I happened upon something special. I mean really. How simply adorable is this?
My daughter is quickly outgrowing her "baby" furniture... I just think this will be perfect in her "big girl" room this fall! Just. love.
But when I found this seller. I knew I happened upon something special. I mean really. How simply adorable is this?
My daughter is quickly outgrowing her "baby" furniture... I just think this will be perfect in her "big girl" room this fall! Just. love.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
count down... 8 days.
I am SO excited about a new project I have in the works for this blog. I've been planning it for a while and I think it will be SUPER fun. I hope all my readers will get hooked on the fun as well (and maybe join in too)! It involves some fashion and some rock and roll. Here's a clue:
count down... 8 days. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So make sure you are here MARCH 2, 2009 for it's debut! I'll have more teasers throughout the week as well...
count down... 8 days. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So make sure you are here MARCH 2, 2009 for it's debut! I'll have more teasers throughout the week as well...
Saturday, February 21, 2009
February Finds... 21!
The Hayden-Harnett
spring/summer 2009 line is of course TO.DIE.FOR. I just love it all, especially the following pieces that have (as always) fabulous color choice and unique and inspiring design. Check out the whole line (Hayden-Harnett Handbags
) in the meantime, these are a couple of my favorites:
Staci Crossbody, Violet Crinkle Patent, $258
There is nothing better than finding "the" perfect shade of pink. This magenta hue is sophisticated and chic without being frilly or silly. And I love the repeating "coin purse" theme. In addition, this cross-shoulder bag proves that the trend is back - like it or not.
Clarice Train Case, Les Grands Pavots Bleu, $278
How can you not think spring when you see this bag? I love the blue with orange... the varied hues make it surprisingly versatile.
Lolita Ruffle Bag, Moonbeam, $348
spring/summer 2009 line is of course TO.DIE.FOR. I just love it all, especially the following pieces that have (as always) fabulous color choice and unique and inspiring design. Check out the whole line (Hayden-Harnett Handbags) in the meantime, these are a couple of my favorites:Staci Crossbody, Violet Crinkle Patent, $258
There is nothing better than finding "the" perfect shade of pink. This magenta hue is sophisticated and chic without being frilly or silly. And I love the repeating "coin purse" theme. In addition, this cross-shoulder bag proves that the trend is back - like it or not.
Clarice Train Case, Les Grands Pavots Bleu, $278
How can you not think spring when you see this bag? I love the blue with orange... the varied hues make it surprisingly versatile.
Lolita Ruffle Bag, Moonbeam, $348
Ruffles are here and now. And really, I couldn't love them more. Especially as they are executed on this adorable shoulder bag. Fun, fun!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Fashion Friday... let it rain!
Fashion Friday again ladies and gentlemen... (do gentlemen read me? If so, speak up! I better start doing some male outfits soon!) Today's outfit is inspired by this umbrella that I am just so in love with:
Likely because I just want spring to arrive SO badly. If it were raining (instead of snowing...) that would mean that temps are on the rise!
Today's outfit is multi-layered for unexpected spring days and super casual, yet super chic. Enjoy... hopefully there is a chance of rain near you!
let it rain - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Likely because I just want spring to arrive SO badly. If it were raining (instead of snowing...) that would mean that temps are on the rise!
Today's outfit is multi-layered for unexpected spring days and super casual, yet super chic. Enjoy... hopefully there is a chance of rain near you!
let it rain - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
February Finds... 19!
My 18 month old daughter is obsessed with hats... any kind or any thing that will make a hat will be on her head! I found these adorable hats that would likely suit her fancy just fine... how sweet are these?
Guest Post: My Husband Andrew!
This is my husband's second guest post and I am so excited to have him back! If you missed his first post... here it is.
Today he is giving you internets a lesson on how to make lattes for less than 50 cents a serving. And I wouldn't believe how good they are for so cheap either - except lucky me gets to drink one of these amazing concoctions every morning hand made by him!
This also kicks off the first in what will be a sporadic series called "this is how we do it."
~~~
It’s a distant memory now…February 10th, sunny skies, 62 glorious degrees, snow melting in waterfall down the driveway. I’m thinking Cuervo Margaritas, chips and salsa verde and that sweet smell of fake coco-nutty sun tan lotion. Not so fast Mr. I-wear-shorts-when-it-gets-above-60-degrees. Michigan smacked me in the face again last week and it’s still battering me about the neck, cheeks, ears and toes.
What better to do when the cold weather and crappy economy are tag teaming your sanity? Make cheap Lattes of course!
OK, I must admit, my wife always had me running to the local Starbucks on Saturday mornings to pick her up a $4.00 Grande Non-Fat Latte with Sugar-Free Vanilla and she always seemed so pleased and smug about drinking it slowly over the next 4 hours.
A couple weeks ago I was digging through one of our long forgotten top shelves in the kitchen and found this little gadget that looked like a teenie weenie coffee pot. It’s called a macchinetta and you can get one for around $30 (the
Bialetti 6-c. Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker, Silver
is a nice one from Starbucks that is a 6 cup model... ours is a single cup model). I did a little research and thought it was high time I take some personal credit for that Saturday smugness that Starbuck’s had previously laid claim to.
It turns out this little Italian invented wonder makes awesome espresso. I’ve found a way to put my wife on cloud 9 for less than 50 cents per serving. Husbands, listen up:
Step 1: Get familiar with the parts.
There’s a bottom reservoir with a removable section where the coffee grounds are placed, and an upper assembly that consists of a “filter”, gasket and a top chamber that the finished espresso eventually fills up.
Step 2: Add water to the lower chamber (up to the little steam release valve) and mound the coffee grounds in a nice plump hill. No tamping or packing needed.
Step 3: Pour 6-8 oz of low fat milk in a saucepan. Low fat milk froths better than the real good stuff. If you don’t have any toddlers, chances are you’re rockin' the watery stuff anyway.
Step 4: Apply high heat to both saucepan of milk and prepped Macchinetta. Whisk milk constantly and be careful not to boil. Froth as much or as little as desired. For my wife, the more froth, the better. Beware, more froth means more insulation for this lava like liquid. It will stay hot under that foam so drink with caution. This heating process will take 2-3 minutes depending on the volumes you’re dealing with.
Step 5: Listen for the hiss of the Macchinetta. Once it hisses, it running close to empty. Most of the water has rapidly boiled and escaped to the area of lowest pressure; the top chamber. In the process it’s made its way through the coffee grounds and extracted awesome flavor and more importantly, high doses of caffeine. If you like some sweetness in the drink, now’s the time to add some sugar, or flavored syrup to your mug.
Step 6: Pour the espresso in the mug, pour the frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy.
Cost Per Serving after purchase of Macchinetta: - $0.47
Coffee - $0.21
Milk - $0.24
Sugar – $0.02
Lip Smacking, Smug Faced Goodness – Priceless
Andrew
~~~
This post is part of Hooked on Houses' "Hooked On..." Friday - check it out for more of what the internet is "hooked" on this week@
Today he is giving you internets a lesson on how to make lattes for less than 50 cents a serving. And I wouldn't believe how good they are for so cheap either - except lucky me gets to drink one of these amazing concoctions every morning hand made by him!
This also kicks off the first in what will be a sporadic series called "this is how we do it."
~~~
It’s a distant memory now…February 10th, sunny skies, 62 glorious degrees, snow melting in waterfall down the driveway. I’m thinking Cuervo Margaritas, chips and salsa verde and that sweet smell of fake coco-nutty sun tan lotion. Not so fast Mr. I-wear-shorts-when-it-gets-above-60-degrees. Michigan smacked me in the face again last week and it’s still battering me about the neck, cheeks, ears and toes.
What better to do when the cold weather and crappy economy are tag teaming your sanity? Make cheap Lattes of course!
OK, I must admit, my wife always had me running to the local Starbucks on Saturday mornings to pick her up a $4.00 Grande Non-Fat Latte with Sugar-Free Vanilla and she always seemed so pleased and smug about drinking it slowly over the next 4 hours.
A couple weeks ago I was digging through one of our long forgotten top shelves in the kitchen and found this little gadget that looked like a teenie weenie coffee pot. It’s called a macchinetta and you can get one for around $30 (the
Bialetti 6-c. Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker, Silver
is a nice one from Starbucks that is a 6 cup model... ours is a single cup model). I did a little research and thought it was high time I take some personal credit for that Saturday smugness that Starbuck’s had previously laid claim to.
It turns out this little Italian invented wonder makes awesome espresso. I’ve found a way to put my wife on cloud 9 for less than 50 cents per serving. Husbands, listen up:
Step 1: Get familiar with the parts.
There’s a bottom reservoir with a removable section where the coffee grounds are placed, and an upper assembly that consists of a “filter”, gasket and a top chamber that the finished espresso eventually fills up.
Step 2: Add water to the lower chamber (up to the little steam release valve) and mound the coffee grounds in a nice plump hill. No tamping or packing needed.
Step 3: Pour 6-8 oz of low fat milk in a saucepan. Low fat milk froths better than the real good stuff. If you don’t have any toddlers, chances are you’re rockin' the watery stuff anyway.
Step 4: Apply high heat to both saucepan of milk and prepped Macchinetta. Whisk milk constantly and be careful not to boil. Froth as much or as little as desired. For my wife, the more froth, the better. Beware, more froth means more insulation for this lava like liquid. It will stay hot under that foam so drink with caution. This heating process will take 2-3 minutes depending on the volumes you’re dealing with.
Step 5: Listen for the hiss of the Macchinetta. Once it hisses, it running close to empty. Most of the water has rapidly boiled and escaped to the area of lowest pressure; the top chamber. In the process it’s made its way through the coffee grounds and extracted awesome flavor and more importantly, high doses of caffeine. If you like some sweetness in the drink, now’s the time to add some sugar, or flavored syrup to your mug.
Step 6: Pour the espresso in the mug, pour the frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy.
Cost Per Serving after purchase of Macchinetta: - $0.47
Coffee - $0.21
Milk - $0.24
Sugar – $0.02
Lip Smacking, Smug Faced Goodness – Priceless
Andrew
~~~
This post is part of Hooked on Houses' "Hooked On..." Friday - check it out for more of what the internet is "hooked" on this week@
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
February Finds... 18!
Today's "find" is one of the most favorite books in our household. This book provides hours of enjoyment for parents and kids and is a spectacular coffee table book for any household. It's highly educational, with a bit of quirkiness mixed in. Who doesn't love some quirkiness now and then?!?!
It is the Firefly Visual Dictionary. I bought this at Restoration Hardware YEARS ago... it looks like Barnes and Noble only has used copies. Although a used copy wouldn't be such a bad investment seeing as our book is practically torn to shreds it is used so much.
This book contains visual diagrams and descriptions for everything from a human body, to the solar system, to how an airport is laid out to the parts and workings of musical instruments. It is a great learning tool for exploring children and parents!
It is the Firefly Visual Dictionary. I bought this at Restoration Hardware YEARS ago... it looks like Barnes and Noble only has used copies. Although a used copy wouldn't be such a bad investment seeing as our book is practically torn to shreds it is used so much.
This book contains visual diagrams and descriptions for everything from a human body, to the solar system, to how an airport is laid out to the parts and workings of musical instruments. It is a great learning tool for exploring children and parents!
work it wednesday!
Hey ladies... it's that time again! Work it Wednesday - where I choose one wardrobe piece and highlight how to "work it" in three different ways. This week I am highlighting some super cool peacock earrings!
So would you rock the peacock earring? Chirp in below...
I have seen these at a couple of online boutiques and this past weekend saw them in "real life" and fell. in. love. They just scream fun and whimsy and are super trendy right now. Trendy isn't always bad. When used in moderation it can take the classics in your closet and instantly make them up-to-the-minute chic!
peacock earrings - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
peacock earrings - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So would you rock the peacock earring? Chirp in below...
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
February Finds... 17!
Shoe and sandal love...
How stinkin' cool are these Whistle Neon Trim Sandals by Free People?
I guess I am loving grey footwear these days... because these Barcode Ankle Flats by Jeffrey Campbell at Free People are just adorable as well.
And the jury is definitely out on this pair of Bahia Jersey Sandals by Free People... would you do it? I don't think I would, but maybe. Hmmm.
Do you have new footwear plans for spring?
How stinkin' cool are these Whistle Neon Trim Sandals by Free People?
I guess I am loving grey footwear these days... because these Barcode Ankle Flats by Jeffrey Campbell at Free People are just adorable as well.
And the jury is definitely out on this pair of Bahia Jersey Sandals by Free People... would you do it? I don't think I would, but maybe. Hmmm.
Do you have new footwear plans for spring?
looking for the perfect inspiration...
This weekend I had a moment... a moment where I looked around my living room and decided I hated it. I haven't really invested into new pieces or accents for years and it's starting to show. I think most of the angst is focused at the sofa and the chair. All of the sudden it seems late-90s-early-2000s-Pottery-Barn... or in short, out of date, which is what it is. I have a white sofa in the basement that I really like - but I really want to recover it.
So right now I am contemplating two options:
1) bring the white sofa up and swap the brown sofa and chair downstairs for now.
2) SELL the brown sofa and chair (likely craigslist) and then pay to have the white sofa recovered, thus going without any sofa for a couple of weeks while it gets finished.
While I am trying to make a calm and researched decision (I tend to be a little "get this stuff out of here I hate it" sometimes...) here are some rooms I REALLY love... just a little "research" we could call it!
[All images via Turquoise, found through Haley Kathryn Designs)
I've listed what I like below each picture... then when I find all the common denominators, I know what to invest in - right?
Above: like blue walls with red accents (already have!), white sofa (already have!), funky print rug, bamboo side table
Above: like yellow tray, like white sofa
Above: like red accents (already have!), like white sofa (already have!), like bamboo accents, like bold lamps
Above: like bold lamps
Above: like bold lamp
Above: like tulip table with funky refinished chairs
Above: like tulip table with bold patterned chairs
So I have concluded that I like white sofas with red and blue accents. Which is a great start - seeing as I HAVE these things!
Now to invest in the following:
Yellow Tray
Bold Lamps
Bamboo Side Table/Chairs
Rug
Tulip Table
Funky Chairs to recover/paint myself.
So I guess there will be more on this soon!
So right now I am contemplating two options:
1) bring the white sofa up and swap the brown sofa and chair downstairs for now.
2) SELL the brown sofa and chair (likely craigslist) and then pay to have the white sofa recovered, thus going without any sofa for a couple of weeks while it gets finished.
While I am trying to make a calm and researched decision (I tend to be a little "get this stuff out of here I hate it" sometimes...) here are some rooms I REALLY love... just a little "research" we could call it!
[All images via Turquoise, found through Haley Kathryn Designs)
I've listed what I like below each picture... then when I find all the common denominators, I know what to invest in - right?
Above: like blue walls with red accents (already have!), white sofa (already have!), funky print rug, bamboo side table
Above: like yellow tray, like white sofa
Above: like red accents (already have!), like white sofa (already have!), like bamboo accents, like bold lamps
Above: like bold lamps
Above: like bold lamp
Above: like tulip table with funky refinished chairs
Above: like tulip table with funky refinished chairs
Above: like tulip table with bold patterned chairsSo I have concluded that I like white sofas with red and blue accents. Which is a great start - seeing as I HAVE these things!
Now to invest in the following:
Yellow Tray
Bold Lamps
Bamboo Side Table/Chairs
Rug
Tulip Table
Funky Chairs to recover/paint myself.
So I guess there will be more on this soon!
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