Currently Loving (December 2011)

I am making a list, checking it twice: it's that awesome monthly feature where I pretend like I've never heard of Pinterest, oh-yes oh-yes oh-yes. Here are 11 little things that I am loving this snowy month of December...

1. Printed Dress (zara.com) - pretty dress, pretty print, very pretty price.

2. Kara Ross Sidra Shoulder Bag (neimanmarcus.com) - combines everything I love in one very pretty package.

3. Lanvin Python Minaudiere (neimanmarcus.com) - I am definitely having a snakey-little-moment, and Lanvin always does it right. This gorgeous minaudiere even comes with a chain so you don't have to fumble with it all night long, hooray.

4. Stolen Girlfriend's Club Printed Maxi Skirt (asos.com) - this skirt is perfect for anyone that likes showing off their legs but hates the over-exposed vulnerability of a true mini skirt.

5.Tom Ford Calgary Oversized Sunglasses (nordstrom.com) - colorful sunglasses are just one of the many trends on tap for Spring 2012; these frames have a subtle touch of color mirroring pretty, neutral stripes and a cool, oversized shape.

6. Seamed Detail Waist-Tie Coat (reissonline.com) - Reiss is a relative newcomer to the world of fashion (at least for us girls, as their womenswear line launched in 2000) but oh, how I love them so. This UK-based retailer is stuffed full of sleek, pretty, and polished items--this coat is no exception.

7. Devon Crystal Necklace & Devon Crystal Bracelet (audendesign.com) - I love unique pieces of jewelry, and this NYC-based jeweler combines funky mixes of metal, swarovski crystals, and semi-precious stones to create seriously stunning pieces.

8. Cut Glass Candle in Goji Tarocco Orange (goji berry at anthropologie.com) -  I typically dislike 'fruity' home fragrances, but the mix of goji berry and tarocco orange smells tangy, clean, and not over-sweet. I picked it up for myself at Anthropologie yesterday and have been burning it ever since!

9. Short Chevron Faux Fur Gilet (topshop.com) - a faux fur vest is a must for winter, and I love that this gilet is slim fitting with a soft and swanky print.

10. Butter 3 Free London Nail Lacquer in 'Macbeth' (zappos.com) - I am currently rebelling against the dark hues normally associated with winter, and this orangey coral is the perfect way to do it! I like it paired with turquoise, yellow gold, rose gold, and burgundy (see here!).

11. Pebble Dinnerware (zgallerie.com) - I spotted this yesterday in-store and it was hard to not bring it home with me! While the entire set can be a bit much, the pebble pattern looks beautiful as a charger sitting under white, asymmetrical gold-rimmed dishes (like these at west elm!)

I've shared mine, so now share yours: what's currently on your Christmas wishlist?  Share away in the comments! ♥

Remodel Update + Currently Loving (November 2011)

Are you getting sick of coming to this blog only to see me stand in an empty room? Me too! So good news! We've moved the furniture back!  Yay!

But we're not quite done.  Okay, we're not even close to being done. While all of the flooring is now installed (save for the stairs, which will cost as much as our entire floor install to cover with matching wood) (so it looks like we really will do a slide + ball pit!) (or we'll pebble it, as I've been watching way too much I Hate My Bath and pebbling is so fun!  And so cheap!  And so easy!  And I so really want to do it!) (And I'm not entirely sure, but I think Husband would get mad if I pebbled over the new bamboo in our bedroom so I should probably do it on something else!), we still have quite a ways to go here.

Still on our list:

1. A complete master bathroom overhaul, complete main floor bathroom overhaul. We have only one bathroom (out of three!) that is fully functional at the moment, and let me tell you--it totally puts the fun into "functional". HA HA HAHAHA not really.
2. New furniture.  We threw/donated a lot of our old furniture away at the beginning of this, mostly because it was mismatching sets that we had each independently acquired early on in our adult lives. And while mismatching furniture can have a certain je ne sais quoi about it (and it was reeeally hard for me to part with that fake potted tree that I had adorned with white christmas lights when I was 21 in an odd attempt to be classy, as I apparently thought classy was replicating something found all across America in cheap Italian eateries?) (ha ha ha, and ya'll read this blog for style advice!) it is time for Husband and me to be adults and have good furniture that kind-of-sort-of matches without being covered in five different slip covers.  Mom, I know you're reading this, stop crying.
3. Painting more walls.
4. Buying some lights to hang, because sometimes being able to see shit is fun.
5. Buying more Bath and Body Wallflowers, 'cuz I'm horribly horribly horribly sickly addicted.
6. Doing a cool textured/printed wall paper on the two windowed walls framing the fireplace. Yes?  Those sluts are almost begging for it!
7. Doing something with that fireplace. As you will see in the pictures below, we decided to tear out the tiled hearth that jutted out in front as we were installing the floors. We then haphazardly patched it up since we had no master plan for the fireplace at that time. Um. We still have no master plan. That mirror needs to go.  Halp. 
8. A cool closet overhaul. This will be last, since Husband and I are the only ones that see the closet.  Bummer. 

But with both winter and the holidays looming on the horizon (and Husband starting his competitive youth basketball coaching again), it is definitely time for a break. In spite of the construction hiatus I will still be working on acquiring some pretty furniture over the next few months, once I figure out what it is that I actually want, because I am tired of using old throw pillows & wiggly chihuahuas as make-shift coffee tables. They never sit still, the little brown one shakes uncontrollably because she's weird, and it's stressful.

So here we go!  Time for some pictures. The main floor living room looks sparse right now (I am still working on finding a rug, a different coffee table since the zebra thing is going in our bedroom, a funky chaise or set of chairs, end tables, curtains, wall paper, funky knick-knacks, more wall decor, curtains, and lamps--whew!) but I am still thrilled with the results so far. Husband has worked so hard on this, and it has been a great bonding experience to work together towards finally having a space that reflects our style:

Before!

After!

Before!

After!

And a pretty vase + flowers from Z Gallerie that I picked up last week:

In that same vein, I am long overdue for a "currently loving" post. Here's what I am currently lusting after this November...and you just might see a few of the pretty things below pop up in my home soon, too! Enjoy:

What are YOU currently loving this month? Spill it in the comments! ♥

(Currently Loving) September 2011

Just a few things that I am currently loving this crisp, almost-fall day in Colorado:

 {currently loving: valentino lace booties, caught on sale earlier this summer and waiting to be worn}

{currently loving: new fall butter london colors: wallis, which is a fabulous gold olive; and blagger, which is a bright cobalt blue}

 {currently loving: nanette lepore "cafe sheath" dress (similar style here!) + j crew perfect mix tape cardigan in bronzed twig + j crew necklace - snapped at a wedding in Golden, Colorado}

{currently loving: teaching my aunt how to 'photo-bomb', which she immediately put into action} {and my dad pilfering my twin sister's peacock feather headband to wear while dancing}

{currently loving: my dad entertaining himself, always}

{see?}

{currently (not) loving: breaking in new shoes by gettin' doooown on the dance floor.  I highly don't recommend, ouch!}

{currently loving: really bad flash photography} {and looking oddly happy that my twin sister somehow worked stabbing me with a plastic fork into her dancey-jiggy-dance-one-toosie}

{currently loving: Husband's first trip to IKEA} {and holding 2 new mirrors for the house!}

{currently loving: he's only smiling because we're almost at the end}

{currently loving: the pups finding finding new, snoozy-sun-spots on the new floor}

{currently loving: more new nail polishes for fall, from L to R: Essie Power Clutch, Sally Hansen Cocoa-A-Go-Go, Essie Mink Muffs, and Chanel Quartz} {I might have a bit of a nail polish problem}

{currently loving: lace dress - alexa chung for madewell} {launches tomorrow!}

{currently loving: beautiful jewels paired with bold & sleek dresses at rachel roy}

{currently loving: leopard portfolio clutch from ASOS for under $50!} {and take 20% off through tonight with code "SHOPLFW"}

What are you currently loving this month? Share in the comments! <3

Currently Loving (August 2011)

It's that time of month again: here are 11 things that I am loving right now.  Links and more information are all below--enjoy!

1. Valentino Rockstud Python Flats (neimanmarcus.com) - A flat version of my most-loved kitten heels and in python?! Gorgeous, pretty, love.

2. ASOS Pleated Maxi (asos.com) - So. I created this little image about 10 days ago and meant to post it before my last 'outfit of the day', which...didn't happen. Pardon the redundancy here, my dears!  But hey, I do love the skirt (and judging from the comments, I'm glad you all loved it too!).

3. Blue Raspberry Snow Cone Shampoo, Shower Gel, and Bubble Bath (philosophy.com) - Philosophy is well-known for their fun, limited edition scents that they come out with every season (Cinnamon Red Hots! Chocolate Easter bunnies!), but this scent is hands down my favorite of all time. It's so sweet and juicy! (plus take 10% off with code "FRIENDS")

4. Rachel Zoe Natalie Tie Collar Blouse (piperlime.com) - Say what you will about the boho-tastic Californian stylist, but her new clothing, shoe, and handbag collection has been making waves (ha, get it?) in the fashion world. It is with good reason, too: it's full of gorgeous coats, beautiful capes, sophisticated blouses, and perfect pants cut in her signature wide-leg flare style.  Love this leopard-print bow blouse!

5. Free People City Floating Cape (freepeople.com) - Capes are cool, cozy, and set to be the coat-shape of the season--isn't this one divine?

6. Giorgio Armani Eye To Kill Mascara (giorgioarmanibeauty.com) - There are lots of fancy mascaras out there (and I've tried them all, I swear!) but this is my current favorite.  It lengthens and volumizes while leaving lashes soft--not stiff, woohoo!  It also doesn't bother my sensitive eyes.

7. Karl Lagerfeld for Macy's (nymag.com) - While reactions to the collection have been a bit mixed, there are a few pretty, standout pieces in the limited edition line (like this dress, and this one too!). The price points seem decent too, with most items falling between $50 to $70--look for it at a Macy's near you on August 31st.

8. Prada 'Minimal Baroque' Round Sunglasses (nordstrom.com) - I love a good pair of fun sunglasses, and when I spied these pretty puppies in pictures of Prada's Spring 2011 runway show I was immeeeediately smitten.  The rococo-swirly arms and big, round shades make these both cool and comfy, and I reach for them whenever I need to make a change-up from my tighter-fitting cat-eyes shades.

9. Lanvin Happy Mini Pop Python Bag (barneys.com) - Slithery-snake prints are set to be a huge upcoming trend this fall, and this bag keeps the scaly material super pretty with a nice, gold metallic sheen. Only someone like Mr. Alber Elbaz could find a fancy gold metallic python to kill and make into a beautiful bag, mmhm. ;)

10. Fantasy Fur Cuffs (asos.com) - Even though the cold weather of winter is still a ways away, I grabbed these cuffs as soon as I saw them pop up on asos.com. They attach easily to the sleeve of any jacket (or hey, even a long-sleeve sweater or sweater dress) and are a super fun way to keep old jackets and coats looking fresh for under $30. So easy!  (And if you like these, make sure to check out the fur collars, too!)

11. Hazel & Dewey - I found this new charming boutique last month while wondering down Broadway here in Denver.  They describe themselves as a "modern mercantile" that "curates quality goods that are courageously designed, for gifts, guests and hosts alike." and indeed, they do--while the store itself isn't big, the selection is super cool.  Find everything from pretty stationary to unique bowls and dish towels--if you love the housewares in Anthropologie or are looking for a unique gift, you will LOVE this!

What's on your "lust list" for this month? Share in the comments! :)

Outfit Of The Day (The Green Scene)

I hope that everyone is having a great weekend so far; just a quick update for today!  I gave into the much-loved AG Stevie Ankle Jean from Anthropologie a few weeks ago after finally making it to the mall to try them on in person.  I was super impressed and could immediately see why they get such great reviews--they are incredibly comfy, soft, stretchy, and the 27.75 inseam makes them great for petites!  They are also a little dose of fun for the ol' wardrobe, even a bit of a challenge perhaps, as I tend to stick mainly to a safe, neutral palette. Look at me here getting all wild & randy--look out! Next up I'll be all out of control and drinking regular soda (not caffeine free!) and staying up past 10pm, I just know it.

I also picked up this mix fabric crepe jacket by Kimchi Blue at Urban Outfitters in the same shopping trip.  It is light, airy, and perfect for layering over tanks in the heat of summertime. I do think it runs a little small--I sized up one size, and could have probably gone up even one more size if I wanted it to fit as  loose as it does on the website model. I prefer my jackets to fit tight however, as if it they are giving me a firm, permanent hug, so if you were hugged enough as a child and like a looser fit, adjust accordingly. I also grabbed it in orange, as it reminded me just enough of this beautiful Diane Von Furstenberg blouse that I've been lusting after in a similar color.  So pretty!

I would also like to note that for those of you that missed out on the J Crew Perfect Patent Pump a few years back, it's back!  Kinda. They've made a few small changes (it isn't patent and they have now dubbed it the "Valentina")  but the overall concept is the same with a sleek pointed toe and a low-enough-to-be-comfy-but-still-high-enough-to-not-be-boring heel.  The "weathered rose" color is beautiful, isn't it?

Valentina Pumps - J Crew

I have a pair in "vibrant coral" currently sitting in my closet and I think that they fit  pretty darn true to size for J Crew shoes. They are a little spendy for basic pumps, but so worth it--I've literally worn holes into my dusty rose Perfect Patent Pumps from wearing them so much over the years! They are absolutely my favorite comfy heel to wear, bravo J Crew.

And last but not least, I neglected to notice that one pant leg was kind of rolled up when I took these shots; now  my secret of being a super pale-white-girl-homie-mang-in-disguise-still-trying-to-make-it-happen-like-it's-2007 has (apparently)  been ruined. Sigh. Please forgive:

Cardigan: Kimchi Blue (buy it here) (similar style here for $44) (and here) (and here at F21)

Tank: J Crew (buy it here)

Belt: J Crew Skinny Patent Belt in Golden Amber (buy it here) (similar style at ASOS for $17) (and here)

Jeans: AG Stevie Ankle (buy them here) (similar style for $58 here) (and here, select colors $35) (and here in a flare!)

Shoes: J Crew Perfectly Patent Pumps in Dusty Rose (similar style here) (and here for under $100!) (and here for under $100!) (and here for under $50)

Bag: Lanvin Sweet Dora Crossbody (buy it here) (similar style here) (and here) (and here, under $50)

(Currently playing)

Currently Loving (June 2011)

It's that time of month again! Here are 12 things that I am coveting this month; links (and more info!) for all of the items are below. Enjoy!

1. Shut The Front Door - WillamDohman (etsy.com) - This St. Paul, Minnesota resident makes all sorts of cheeky signs (and in all sorts of fun colors, too!).  Love!

2. Giuseppe Zanotti E10336 Sandals (zappos.com) -  I will always love a little bit of leopard, and these sandals combine juuust the right amount in a comfy ankle-wrap shape.

3. River Island Crossbody Snake Lady Bag (asos.com) - Reptile prints are slated to be hot this coming fall and winter, and this bag has a pretty lady-like shape with a bit of bite, corny slithering into style puns included.

4. Martine Chaison's Apartment (via May/June lonnymag.com) - Be still my rapidly beating heart.

5. Edmundo Castillo Pointed Toe Suede Pumps (shopbop.com) -  A bright and bold color in a slightly understated heel; while it may look like a simple pump for afar, its slightly elongated vamp helps lengthen legs while being smokin' hot to boot. 

6. Chandelier Sconce in Black (zgallerie.com) - These are perfect for hanging anywhere you need a little bit of elegance. (take 10% off with code "taketen05") 

7. Leopard Vintage-style Faux Fur Coat (topshop.com) - I am not entirely sure why it already seems to already be fall at this UK-based retailer, but no matter.  This coat is gorgeous and satisfies the crazy-over-medicated-little-old-lady in me, even if it will have to hang in my closet for a few months before wearing!

8. Gazelle Head Wall Plaque (zgallerie.com) - In spite of ceramic animal heads quickly becoming the most over-used accessory in design, I still love them.  This gazelle provides something different than the usual deer head; look for pictures of them in my own home soon. (+ take 10% off with code "taketen05")

9. Diesel Casual Pants (yoox.com) - This is the summer of color, and peachy-corally-pink pants are perfect for pairing with ivories, camels, and yellows.

10. Diane Von Furstenberg Miro Flowers Tray (bloomingdales.com) - The queen of the wrap dress is quickly also becoming the queen of pretty home goods; this tray is stunning!

11. D Bar Desserts - Denverites take note: even if you're like me and are quickly tiring of quirky bakeries, this little spot (located next to Strings in the uptown City Park neighborhood) has killer food to go along with the killer desserts. Highly recommend the macaroni and cheese and warm cookies with milk--a simple concept done incredibly well!

12. Ray Ban Plastic Aviators (urbanoutfitters.com) - I was looking for a pair of aviators slightly different than the ones my Husband wears (matching sunglasses = a little too dorky, eh?) when I stumbled upon these and quickly fell in love.  They combine the classic aviator look with a thicker, plastic frame that's both super comfortable and easy to wear.  

What's on your "lust list" for this month? Share in the comments below!

Currently Loving (April 2011)

It's that time of month again! Here are 15 things that I'm coveting this month; links+ more info for all of the items are below.  Enjoy!

 

1. Utopia Lamp (Jonathan Adler) - only Mr. Adler can mix a bit of fun with sophistication, and I can imagine two of these each sitting on an end of a cool sideboard.

2. Feather Trimmed Necklace (Forever 21) - my love of feathers continues!

3. Sunrays Stitch Dress (Madewell) - in a sweet, delicate pink, excellent for pairing with rusty browns and camels.

4.Valentino Studded Calf Hair Kitten Heels (Net-a-porter) - ya'll know how much I love my Valentino studded kitten heels (they're fun to wear and easy to walk in!), and ya'll also know how much I love a bit of leopard.  Swoon!

5. Pink Cut Out Ring (Topshop)

6. Traditional Home (Lonny Magazines) - my twin sister recently introduced me to this online-only publication and I'm in absolute love with almost everything inside.  Case in point--check out this cool styling twist for a few Louis XVI chairs!

7. Sequin Layer Skirt (GAP) - sequins aren't just for the fall and winter!

8. Miss Softee Bikini (Juicy Couture) - I was on the hunt for THE perfect swimsuit when I found this, and...it's perfect! And it's already packed and ready to go in my suitcase for beachy adventures this summer.

9. Extreme Cat Eye Sunglasses (Urban Outfitters) 

10. Nanette Lepore Rain Or Shine Floral Maxi Dress (Neiman Marcus) - this dress is even prettier in person and swishes as you walk.

11.Sparkle and Feathers Necklace (Forever 21) - and another fun feather necklace!  Pair it with a simple tank and  maxi skirt for am easy, boho-chic vibe.

12. Boxer II (Reed Krakoff) -  designed by the executive creative director at Coach, I've been obsessed with these bags!  I've yet to make a big handbag splurge this year, but when I do this one is at the tippy-top of my list.

13. Palisades Belt (Anthropologie) - patterned belts can often be hard to come by, but they make a great addition to any wardrobe. This one is begging to be paired around little black dresses and stripey cardigans!

14. Charlene K Irregular Ring (Pink Mascara)

15. Marc Jacobs Black Orchid Leather Shoulder Bag (Saks Fifth Avenue) - sleek colorblocking on this bag with plummy browns and cognacs makes this super eye catching.  And fabulous.  AND I NEED IT.

What's on your "lust list" for this month?  Share in the comments!

Currently Loving (March 2011)

Dream, dream, dream.  Here are 15 things that I'm coveting this month; links+ more info for all of the items are below.  Enjoy!

1. Joie Fanny Lace Blouse (Neiman Marcus) - Lace has been a hot trend for awhile now, and the slightly puffy shoulders + pretty scalloped details of this blouse makes it perfect for pairing with skinny jeans, tulip skirts, or ruffly shorts.

2. Kara by Kara Ross Brown Tiger Python and Amethyst Ring (Max & Chloe) - I love a good piece of statement jewelry!

3. Diane Von Furstenberg Night 5 Piece Place Setting in Gold (Bloomingdale's) - Diane Von Furstenberg's home collection only hit stores last month and I already have several items on my lust list; this place setting is at the top!

4. Elizabeth and James Lang Booties (Ssense) Peep-toe booties are excellent for wearing with almost anything; I'd pair these with a sweet, floral summer dress or paper-bag shorts + a black boatneck tee. (take 20% off)

5. Valentino Rockstud Inlaid Lace Shoulder Bag (Neiman Marcus) - Serious swoon!

6. Nubby Panama Hat (Urban Outfitters) - I'm always looking for ways to keep myself covered as the days turn sunny and warm; this hat is perfect in ivory and will be coming with on a future trip to Hawaii this summer!

7. Queen Anne Mirror (Jonathan Adler) - A super modern twist on a vintage shape (and fabulous to boot!) that would be perfect for placing above a console table.

8. Miu Miu Lace-up Slingback Sandals (Neiman Marcus) - Charming with feminine, scalloped details but extremely comfortable with a platform; look for these to make a debut on this blog soon!

9. Nars Lip Pencil in Fantasia (Nars Cosmetics) - I'm already gearing up for summer lip hues and this lip pencil works flawlessly with all shades of coral and pink....or even by itself with a lil' bit of lip gloss.  Love it.

10. Edible Pink and Black Butterflies (PinchMeImDreaming on Etsy) - Spring is still a ways away, but I'm still dying to bake some cupcakes and perch these pretty little butterflies on top.  So fun!

11. Embellished Fabric Cuff (Topshop) - I love using cuffs to dress up basic t's and dresses (I always buy two so I can do the "Wonder Woman" and wear one on each arm!).

12. Lampe Sandals (ALDO) - My obsession with feathers knows no bounds; look for these to be making an appearance on this blog once the snow melts, too! (take 10% off with code "310687611" through 4-1)

13. Herringbone Cargo Dress (J Crew) - I have a few trips to climes with warmer weather coming up this year, and cotton dresses are always the best!  They're comfy and pack well, and this cargo dress from J Crew is darling!

14. Brittany Beaded Dress (Alice + Olivia) - The beading!  The sparkle!  This dress is gorgeous!

15. Lisa Handbag (Bakers Shoes) - A handbag that combines the lady-like satchel shape with a bit of colorblocking, too?  And it's under $100?  Sold!

What is on your wish list for this month?  Share in the comments!