Let's Get Cozy

When Tiho asked me what I wanted for Christmas this year, I immediately answered "something cozy." That wasn't entirely helpful to him, so I ended up sending along a few links to specify my desires, including the pompom hat and sherpa blanket up there.

What can I say? I figure that the majority of my time this winter will involve snuggling a newborn, so why not indulge those creature comforts?

Dip-Dyed Ornament Set | Sherpa Blanket | Hot Cider Candle | Winter Hat

A New Mama Style Wishlist

Fall time always strikes me as a rebirth of sorts, and no matter where my life or career takes me, I doubt I'll ever be able to mentally move beyond the school calendar as an annual marker for the passage of time.

Growing up, the turn of season--and specifically, back to school--often signified a few special new additions to my wardrobe. This is the first year in forever where I haven't done much (if any) shopping for myself, mostly because it doesn't seem to make a whole lot of sense with a seven-month pregnant belly and the uncertainty of what shape or size my postpartum body will become.

That being said, I've started to think a bit about what my own personal style will morph into once this baby is on the outside! Anything I purchase in the weeks and months ahead will need to meet specific criteria:

1). Be nursing friendly.
2). Be comfortable & forgiving.

Below, a few essentials I'd love to incorporate into my "New Mama" wardrobe. The older I get, the closer I pay attention to the quality of my purchases: I would much rather spend more on a few select investment pieces that I know I'll return to again and again:

Easy-access button down shirts. I would love to add this silk version in a pretty color to my rotation for days I venture out of the house.

A nursing bra that makes me feel feminine and sexy. I have three no-nonsense ones from Target that I'm sure will do the trick just fine, but I'd love to own one slightly fancier bra to make me feel great about leaky boobs.

A new pair of high-quality (i.e. non-see through) leggings. Paired with the button down and some cute shoes, dare I say I'll look stylish?

A diaper bag that doesn't scream diaper bag. I've been advised by many fellow moms to go the backpack route. This one is pricey as far as these things go, but I love the understated style and the fact that it can be carried as both a shoulder bag and backpack.

A casual shirtdress in the season's coziest pattern to pair with leggings and ankle boots.

Simple gold jewelry. Tiho gave me this much-coveted ring with our daughter's first initial for my birthday earlier this month: I haven't removed it from my right hand since receiving it.

A robe that doesn't scream "grandma." For some reason, I've always associated bathrobes with elderly ladies who watch afternoon soap operas, and thus, I've never really been into wearing one. Lately though, I love the thought of throwing on a delicate, lightweight robe while snuggling up with baby (probably over this nursing nightgown, of which I'll likely order a few).

A new gold(!) water bottle to stay hydrated while breast-feeding. I own and love the Klean Kanteen and appreciate how it keeps my beverages cold for 12+ hours. This one claims to do the same and is just so damn pleasing to the eye. I'm not sure I can resist.

High quality slip-on shoes that will help me feel pulled-together in jeans and a tee. I've got my eye on these classic leather loafers from Everlane.

//

Anything I'm forgetting? Here's to the goal of maintaining personal style post-pregnancy.

Garden Lounging

Necessary provisions for an afternoon well-spent. Although I suppose for the time being, I need to settle for a city bench and my trusty but battered old sneakers.

(Hanging wisteria, yellow espadrilles, letterpress book, straw fedora, teak chair, moonstone mug).

Project Style: Mellow Yellow

I bought this coat at Brooklyn Industries on a particularly chilly winter day about a month ago. I've wanted a lightweight yellow jacket for what seems like forever and when I tried it on in the store, the sales guy inquired if I was from California. When I replied "no, why do you ask?," he chirped, "well that coat makes you look straight-up California cheery."

I plan to wear the heck out of it all spring. Only a few more weeks until the blossoms bloom!

P.S. Fashion blogging is definitely not my forte. It always feels goofy to me, but maybe that's because I'm showcasing a bright yellow windbreaker? Someone want to buy me a pair of Louboutins?

P.P.S My only other attempt at a style post two years ago. Thumbs up for blurry photos.

Outfit (linked where available): 
Jacket: Brooklyn Industries
Shirt: Ann Taylor
Jeans: Gap
Shoes: Converse
Lipstick: Revlon #740 'Certainly Red'

Snug As A Bug

Where oh where is the snow? Winter is mildly bearable when a sparkling blanket is present on the twisted skeleton trees. Right now, New York is experiencing the teeth-chattering type of cold you feel deep in your bones. So, because I have nothing better to do (a lie--I'm procrastinating), I deemed it fitting to pull together a few cozy provisions currently helping me muster the energy to do anything other than burrow deep under the duvet.

ONE: Sunny-colored flowers. Daffodils are just beginning to pop up in the markets (yay!).
TWO: Cute pompom hats. Makes braving the windchill not quite as terrible.
THREE: Spritzing on a yummy, summery fragrance to trick myself into thinking that season is near.
FOUR: Cozy pajama pants. I'm inclined towards this striped pair.
FIVE: An oversized cable knit throw pillow. I bought mine years ago at Pottery Barn and adore it.
SIX: Socks in a fun, happy pattern. Because nothing is worse then cold toes.
SEVEN: Something hot in my mug at all times. I love a bit of citrus & spice.

Is it freezing where you are? What are some items in your "stay warm" arsenal?

Making a List, Checking it Twice

This wish list is mostly for Emma's benefit, as she always asks me what I want for Christmas/birthdays and then ends up buying something off my blog. A smart one she is, that sister of mine. Here's what I came up with based on my laptop's open browser tabs. (Speaking of which, Tiho wants to design me a t-shirt displaying my personal catchphrase: "Don't close my tabs!" (No, but seriously, never ever close my tabs).

ONE: My favorite perfume. I've been out for over six months and haven't gotten around to reordering.
TWO: The Hat Book. A collection of images by one of my all-time favorite photographers.
THREE: A yellow coffee/tea pot. Because it's super duper cute.
FOUR: Leather Stud Wallet. Simple, classic, stylish, & well-made. (I'd use this for years).
FIVE: Vintage Kaj Franck Heart Bowl. Dream collector's item (aka, always on my ultimate wish list).
SIX: Original Lulie Wallace Art Print. This would be a lovely addition to my collection.
SEVEN: Little Flower Cookbook. I love the name. And the recipes sound delicious.
EIGHT: Chemex 6-Cup Glass Coffee Maker. How is it possible I don't already own this?
NINE: Gradiated Striped Rug, size 9x12. Unbeatable price for the quality & size.
TEN: Clybourn Loft Chair. Two words: green velvet.

For The Shutterbug

I couldn't resist putting together a photo-themed gift guide (even though this hilarious post portrays exactly how I feel about gift guide mania). It would thrill me to receive any of the ten items included here. Perhaps it will inspire a purchase for the snap-happy person in your life.

Olivier Camera Figurine / Hand-stitched Leather Camera Strap / Personalized Pillow Case / Photo-opoly Game / Colorful Wide Angle Camera / Gorilla Pod Flexible Tripod / Palma Leather Camera Satchel / Watercolor Giclee Art Print / Lazy oaf Camera Tote Bag / The New York Times Magazine Book of Photographs

Paper Doll

Red lipstick, bold stripes, and a little extra oomph with something cheery & bright.

I legitimately wear a similar getup to this on a daily basis, except it's likely I also have dried paint on my butt and a hole in my sock.

With that, I bid you farewell, as I'm off to Rhode Island to eat my weight in stuffing. Happy Thanksgiving, dudes.

Bag / Top / Infinity Scarf / Lipstick / Jeans / Boots / Travel Mug / Earrings

Things I Like, V. 15

Oh man. It's that time of year where I start poking around online in search of holiday gifts for loved ones and grow more and more greedy by the hour.

One / Two / Three / Four / Five / Six

Not-Lame New York

I feel like there are a disproportionate amount of super cheesy NYC-themed souvenirs compared to offerings in other cities. Maybe I just notice it because I pass through one of the most touristy sections of New York twice daily.

I possess a deep pride for this city though, especially in light of everything she's currently slammed with, and felt compelled to round up some decidedly not-lame tchotchke gift ideas. Because really, NYC is the bomb dot com, even though my use of that phrase clearly indicates that I am not.

1). NYC in a Bag; 2). Rifle Paper Co. Art Print; 3). Kate Spade Taxi Mittens; 4). Andy Burgess Times Square Art Print; 5). Brass Apple Figurine; 6).Tom Slaughter New York Valentine Print; 7). Bridge & Tunnel Mug; 8). Sugar Paper Letterpress Print.

Four Things

...making me smile today. This bag (thanks to two of you for the recommendation); this little dude; this gold elephant (absolutely need); and these camera cookies.

In all seriousness though, I can't stop thinking about babies in bow ties. Anyone itching to collaborate on a shoot? I'll provide the bow-tie, you provide the baby...

My Back-To-School Closet

The start of another school year means an excuse to add to my "teacher wardrobe." I tend to stick to classic, versatile pieces that are comfortable and easy to mix and match with one another (whatever it takes to make 5:30AM outfit selection as pain-free as possible!).

I hesitate to spend a lot of money on any one item simply because of daily preschool wear and tear: a disproportionate amount of my time is spent mixing paint, kneeling on the floor, wiping noses, and yielding sticky-fingered hugs. None of the items pictured here cost more than $35, which means I won't feel that sad if something gets spilled on or stained (likely).

I need to replace my TOMS, pick up another pair of my favorite go-to skinny jeans as well as a pair of black leggings/cigarette pants, and then I think I'm almost ready to greet fall.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a quality leather shoulder bag that won't break the bank (like under $100)? I need something durable enough to fit my ipad, lesson plan book, and all my usual purse contents, but haven't been able to find anything. This is the one I love (not happening) and this is the one I would consider splurging on, though I'd prefer to purchase something with a considerably lower price tag. Help?

Things I Like, V.11

It's Friday again? The days feel as though they are melting into one another. I've been busy working on a brand-new venture that I'm almost ready to share with you. Until then, here's a handful of happy-makers to welcome the weekend.

Got any big plans? I'm hoping to make a few messes in the kitchen and play with my new lens. Also, happiest birthday wishes (tomorrow) to my fantabulous sister, Emmie bean. Hay girl haaaay! (Those candles are here in your honor).

1). Gold Spoon; 2). Book; 3). Scarf; 4). Art Print; 5). Measuring Cups; 6). Sunglasses; 7). Candles

Things I Like, V. 9 (Summer Beauty Edition)

Pictured here are the items I can't live without during these sticky summer months. Aside from the elephant bag--something I just like a whole lot--I own and love all of these products and use them almost daily.

1). The perfect red lipstick for summer (and year round). Revlon's "Love That Red" is my favorite and one of the best "bang for your buck" lipsticks ($7 at any drugstore). It stays on while moisturizing and is universally flattering.

2). Panama Hat: I know, super trendy right now, but for good reason. It protects my skin from the sun and looks cute. I own this one from JCrew.

3). St. Ives Invigorating Apricot Facial Scrub. Budget-friendly version of my other favorite facial exfoliant (discussed here). I use it in the mornings--makes my skin feel baby soft.

4). Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock. Confession: I hate how sunscreen feels on my skin (sticky, greasy, gross). This is one of the best out there, leaving literally zero residue behind while simultaneously preventing sunburn (trust me, I've tried a lot).

5). Travel Bag. I adore it, and wish I owned it to schlepp all this other shiz around. (Price is listed in Swedish currency. I converted it, and it translates to $220).

6). Saltwater sandals in red. Comfiest shoes ever. I live in them.

7). Essie's "Jelly Apple". I treat myself to a pedicure every few weeks throughout the summer months and enjoy trying different bright colors on my toes, but also hold the belief that you really can't wrong with a classic red.

8). Well-fitted, rolled demin shorts. Along with my saltwaters, I live in these. Durable enough for biking, comfy enough for lounging. Sold. I have this pair from Banana Republic.

I'd love to hear your summer beauty essentials. What gets you through the heat?

Let's Talk About Lipstick, Part 1

Ever since writing this post, I've been trying to get my act together to draft the promised red lipstick breakdown. Six months(?!) have come and gone since then, which makes me feel a little anxious (red lipstick! it's a serious thing).

Clearly I'm not on the ball, because today, we're going to talk about fuchsia instead. Specifically, the Rouge Pur Couture line by Yves Saint Laurent in #07--"Le Fuchsia," otherwise known as my latest beauty obsession.

I splurged with this one, and bought it on the spot (something I never do; really, you should see my usual indecisive lipstick-buying dance. I'm ridiculous).

I tried the shade on a whim and immediately fell in love: the color is deeply pigmented, vibrant and fresh, and the texture hits exactly how I like it: matte but silky. Moreover, it tastes yummy and comes in a fancy gold tube.

I received two compliments within the first hour of wearing it publicly, one of which came from a eighty-year-old woman who approached me in a pastry shop and exclaimed, "honey! that lip shade is beyond fab." (love her).

If that isn't endorsement enough, then I don't know what is.

P.S. Do you know how to pronounce Yves Saint Laurent?

Singing In The Rain

When it rains, I like to pretend I'm a lemon drop on steroids.

Also, whenever I see people in NYC carrying that umbrella, I automatically want to be their friend.

(umbrella/boots/print/mug/jacket)

On Cliché

Can we talk about saltwater sandals for a minute? I was so hesitant to purchase a pair despite needing a quality summer shoe and admiring them for years. They've recently become super trendy, which annoys me. Trendy things often annoy me. Especially blogger trendy things. Especially because I often like those things.

But guess what. I freaking love them. Almost as much as I love mason jars. And macarons. And kittens. And stripes. And peonies.

Cliché? Totally.

Do I really care? Nope.

I like what I like.

Raise your hand if you're also a (sometimes) blogging cliche.

(Photos from my instagram stream)

Things I Like, V.8

The never ending (two years and counting) coffee table hunt may have just ended. Still ruminating the purchase, but I think this might be it.

Other stuff I like a whole lot:

1). Kate Spade Wickford Sea Cliffs Striped Mug (I already own a yellow striped mug--what is wrong with me?); 2). Elsie bag by Mimi (dreaming!); 3). Marrakesh Tray Coffee Table from Pottery Barn; 4). San Diego Yellow & White Striped Sunhat (definitely don't need, just hard for me to ignore yellow & white striped anything); 5). Hugo Guinness 'Cut Flowers' Print from John Derian (a someday splurge).

High Five!

1). Blowing dandelions & makin' wishes. I'm still a believer.

2). Preschoolers with paintbrushes and vases of spring flowers.

3). The upper west side early on a weekday morning.

4). Multi-colored eggs to celebrate the Bulgarian/Eastern Orthodox Easter. Tiho taught me his secret dyeing technique and this was the result. (I was proud).

5). Quick loose curls that stay put all day. Bonus? No blow-dryer required.

High five to these five. And, happy weekend to you.

High Five!

1). Our back patio. Not sure why there's a sideways door behind a garden chair, but hey! The colors sure are pretty.

2). Peachy coral ranunculus. I think I'm now officially a crazy ranunculus lady.

3). The sock bun. Makes leaving the house without showering so much more stylin' (even if it does take me five attempts to get it right. every time. yup.)

4). Magnolia petals. Can't believe they're almost gone already.

5). A simple dinner for two (fresh bread, orzo salad) and flowers that match the fruit bowl.

High five to these five. And, happy weekend to you.