Archive for December, 2009

Cheers!

Friday, December 31st, 2010

New Year's Toast

If you’re looking for a last minute cocktail  to serve to New Year’s Eve revelers, the Sparkling Melange, a creation of the Ritz Carleton in Georgetown looks easy and delicious.  Mix equal parts Veuve Clicquot and St. Germain then serve (preferably in these Kate Spade Coupes , of course!) Now just line up your midnight kiss and have a confetti popper at the ready. You’ll be all set to ring in 2011!

P.S thank you so much for reading, your comments and support mean SO much. Here’s to another great year!

Working from Home

Thursday, December 30th, 2010

If I had a home office nearly as fabulous as this one designed by Betsy Burnham you would have to tear me away from my desk. I love every last detail. The ruby red de Gournay wallpaper and chocolate brown Quadrille desk chair make quite the combination. Throw in the zebra rug and chinoiserie garden stool and I’m a goner! A perfect mix of classic, colorful and exotic elements. I’m taking notes..

I Resolve To…

Thursday, December 30th, 2010

I Resolve To..

I’m getting a head start on my New Years resolutions and thought I’d share a few things I’m trying to keep in mind and accomplish as we move towards 2011. There’s nothing better than the feeling of having a fresh clean slate, is there? Have you made your resolutions yet? Feel free to share!

purse|party horns|books|piggy bank

D. Porthault Goes Green

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

I received a gorgeous set of Matouk Butterfield linens for Christmas so I’m hardly in need of new bedding, but if I was this whimsical display of D.Porthault sheets and pillows would surely lure me in. All that green has me longing for spring (something I’m sure my fellow east coast readers are all ready for-especially those in NY!)

P.S  be sure to visit Fallon at A Lovely Being for some beautiful shots of the D.Porthault store in New York.

Just in Time for New Year’s

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

I know I’ve posted about Marcia Moran’s jewelry before, but I just can’t help but share these gorgeous earrings and bracelet. Wouldn’t they be the perfect additions to your New Year’s Eve ensemble? I particularly love that they combine both gold and silver. Ring in the New Year with some champagne and sparkle! I have a feeling that 2011 is going to be the best year yet. Time to start working on those resolutions…

Custom Crests

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

Custom Heraldry

Custom Heraldry

One of my favorite pieces of artwork is a matador print by Happy Menocal (catch a glimpse of it hanging above our bar.) I love the vividness of her watercolors and was so excited to see that a greater selection of limited edition prints are now available online. I think I’m most fascinated though, by her custom heraldry. How fun would it be to design your own monogram or family seal. The possibilities are endless and I can’t even imagine where I would begin. What would you want surrounding your monogram?

Exclusive Interview With the Matchbook Magazine Team!

Tuesday, December 28th, 2010

Recently I had the exclusive opportunity to interview three of my very favorite bloggers Katie, Jane, and Fallon, who have teamed up to create what is sure to be an amazing publication, Matchbook Magazine. I’ve been anxiously awaiting its launch so you can imagine my excitement to be able to chat with these three talented ladies! They’re all sweet as can be, and I’m sure you’ll feel like you’ve just gotten off the phone with your closest girlfriends after listening in. Plus, you know you’re curious to hear your favorite bloggers’ voices (I know I always have been!) So, without further adieu, I hope you’ll join me in learning a bit more about Matchbook and the fabulous ladies behind it!

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P.S Now that you’ve listened in, how excited are you for the end of January?!?

In the mean time, you can catch up with the team via their facebook page or their incredibly addicting Tumblr, Strikes Our Fancy!

J’Aime Mon Carre

Monday, December 27th, 2010

Hermes J'Aime Mon Carre

These photos from Hermes’ J’Aime Mon Carre are just about the chicest things I’ve ever seen. Unsurprisingly, the girls from Paris are my favorite. Parisians just seem to have an inherently effortless style, the rest of us have to work at it a bit. At least I’ll know where to look when I’m in need of inspiration!

Are you the proud owner of one of those iconic orange boxes? How do you wear your scarf? Though mine aren’t Hermes, I prefer to tie them to the handles of my Longchamps.

Welcome!

Monday, December 27th, 2010

Hello, hello! Thank you SO much for stopping by. I hope you like what you see. This has been such a labor of love and the culmination of many many emails between myself and the incredibly talented (and patient!) Hanna of GADABOUT. Take some time to peek around and if you’d like to chat you can now find me @ThePursuitStyle and thepursuitofstyle@gmail.com. I cannot wait for all the things I have in store!

A Winter Wonderland

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010
I’ve admired Amanda Brooks for her sartorial wisdom in I Love Your Style, but after seeing photos of her family’s mountain home featured on Vogue.com, I’m thinking her next book should focus on interiors! I honestly would love nothing more than to spend the winter hibernating in this Aiderondack retreat. Have you ever seen a more inviting cabin? I think a cup of hot chocolate and a stack of books is all I’d need by that roaring fire…

Avedon in Boston

Tuesday, December 21st, 2010

I’m flying home for the holidays tomorrow and while I’m there I definitely plan on making a trip to Boston to see the Avedon Fashion 1944-2000 exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts.  I’ve been completely enchanted by his work ever since studying his portraits in a photography class during my boarding school days (seems like SO long ago now!The photos above are just a few of my favorites from his online archives. I’m certain the exhibit will be even more inspiring and of course I’ll be making a stop at the museum store on the way out! 

Jet Setting

Tuesday, December 21st, 2010
I’m sharing my favorite travel destination from a design perspective on Belly’s Button today and would love for you to stop by. I’m sure you’ll be ready to pack a bag in no time!

Up My Sleeve…

Monday, December 20th, 2010
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I’ve got a little something up my sleeve which I can hardly wait to share with you very soon! Since keeping secrets isn’t exactly a strength of mine, I thought I’d satiate my urge to spill by sharing the inspiration behind it. You can let your imagination run wild and take a guess at what I’m up to. I’d love to hear them!

The Stockings Were Hung

Sunday, December 19th, 2010
Stockings were one of the things I dropped the ball on this year in our holiday decorations. I was so excited to hang one for each of us (pup included!) from the fireplace mantle but I just never found the right stockings. At home, we use personalized stockings hand knit by my Nana. They’re stretched from years of being stuffed with gifts, but it only adds to their character. These stockings from Roberta Roller Rabbit and Circa Trade may not have the years of family history, but I’m still a huge fan and would happily hang them from our mantle. Maybe next year!
Do you hang stockings for the holidays? Passed down or store bought? I’d love to know!

That’s A Wrap

Saturday, December 18th, 2010
 
Since we’re each headed to see our families this year, the boyfriend and I are exchanging gifts and having our own little celebration tomorrow. Isn’t it fun when Christmas comes early? Someone still needs to sit down and do some serious wrapping (I’ll give you a hint.. it’s not him!) and these awesome Washi masking tapes would add the perfect amount of pizazz to my packages. I’m partial to the metallics and stripes for the holidays. Do you have a favorite?

Luck

Friday, December 17th, 2010
I could use a little luck today and what better than a good old fashioned good luck charm (encrusted in diamonds of course) to bring it? In an ideal world there would be no such thing as pesky budgets and I’d be wearing this Jennifer Meyer wishbone necklace right now. Unfortunately, we don’t live in that world so maybe if you could just keep your fingers crossed for me that would work too!

Happy Friday! 

She Wore Many Hats

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

 
I love stumbling across new photos (at least to me) of Audrey Hepburn. She’s been an idol of mine ever since I can remember. I actually wrote my very first book report on her (my teacher must have thought I was so precocious!)  I adore these photos of Audrey modeling different hats. She’s just the epitome of elegance, isn’t she?

Just a Note…

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

Just a quick note to let you know you can also find me over at Living Luxe for Less today where I’ll be sharing a few “Luxe for Less” items on my wish list. I hope you’ll check it out! 

Bounkit Baubles

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

I’m having a serious love affair with Hassan Bounkit. Ever since I was introduced to the Moroccan jeweler’s gems via Horse, Hound, and Home, I haven’t been able to get them off my mind! I would absolutely die to have one of his pieces be the newest addition to my jewel box. They’re simply stunning!

Pink Lady

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010
I’ve always loved these photos taken by Todd Selby of Inès de la Fressange in her Paris office. Since Pantone has recently declared Honeysuckle pink the color of the year for 2011 they’re even more appropriate!
P.S I’d die to get my hands on a pair of hot pink Roger Viviers like she’s wearing in the second photo!

A Chic Combination

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010
Orange-y coral and leopard spots look equally chic in Aerin Lauder’s living room as they do on a stylish passerby. Are you over leopard yet? I think I’ll be in love with it (in moderation, of course) for years to come!

The Perfect Red Lip

Monday, December 13th, 2010
In fashion and interior design, I’m almost always drawn to the bright and bold, but when it comes to my beauty regime I’m decidedly much more shy. I think the last time I wore lipstick was for a figure skating competition in the late ’90s (lame I know!) This holiday season I think it’s time I step out of my Stila Lip Glaze comfort zone and try something a little more glamorous. Tom Ford’s Private Blend lip color certainly fits the bill. Its packaging is equally as fabulous as the saturated shades that are offered and I’d be happy to display a tube or two on my vanity. Do you have a favorite lipstick shade? I’d love some suggestions!

Long Live the Queen

Monday, December 13th, 2010
For my fellow anglophiles, how amazing are these Royal Mail rugs? The iconic image comes in a variety of saturated hues and sizes. I haven’t seen one in person, but the detail looks incredible! Plus, they can also be used as wall hangings and who doesn’t appreciate a product that works double duty. What do you think? Would you add a bit of British flair to your home? 

Cape Cod Christmas

Sunday, December 12th, 2010

The lobster pot Christmas tree is built every year in Provincetown, MA and is one of the many reasons I wouldn’t want to celebrate the holidays anywhere other than New England. Cape Cod is just so charming at this time of year! I miss seeing wreaths adorned with sand dollars and garlands made from starfish. In my house, we mix lobster and scallop shell ornaments in with the more traditional pieces on our tree. It looks beautiful every year. Just thought I’d share a little Cape Cod Christmas with you today as I’m feeling a little homesick decorating our decidedly less charming tree here in DC.

Hope you’re having a great Sunday!

Holiday Soiree

Friday, December 10th, 2010
I just love the way this photo from West Elm is styled- so festive and fun! Plus, any party with macaroons on the dessert table is one I’d like to be invited to. I hope you have a great weekend filled with friends, parties, sequins and maybe even a little mistle toe. 

Purse Accessories from Tibi

Thursday, December 9th, 2010
Tying on a scarf is a great way to stand out in the sea of Longchamps here in DC. If you don’t have a favorite scarf, pick up one of these scarf key rings from Tibi. You’ll instantly look more chic!

Holiday Gift Guide 2010: For the Ladies

Thursday, December 9th, 2010
Between mothers, sisters, and best friends, I’m sure there are a lot of women in your life that deserve a little something special…Untitled
Lavish the ladies in your life with luxuries they might not buy for themselves. A beautiful DVF Leopard Scarf (1) and Burberry Earmuffs (9) will keep her warm and toasty all winter long. For your flirtatious sister, how about an Eberjey Bralette and Boyshorts (4)?  For mom, classic Ferragamo Varinas (2) in cherry red will be worn for years to come. An Amethyst Wine Stopper (3) is perfect for your best friend who loves her evening glass of Pinot. Graphic Image Daily Planner (6) will keep her on track if she has one too many! This Nars Bronzer/Blush Duo (5) is essential in any beauty arsenal. Pair it with a sparkly Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish (8) and she’ll be ready to ring in the New Year. Boyfriends, take note, I don’t think any girlfriend would be unhappy with this Rebecca Minkoff MAC Clutch (7) a gorgeous emerald hue.

My Jewel Box

Wednesday, December 8th, 2010
Today’s gift guide is all about baubles and bling so I thought I’d share where I’m storing a few of my favorites.  When I visited New Orleans, a pilgrimage to monogramming Mecca, Leontine Linens, was at the top of my to-do list. You didn’t think I could leave empty handed, did you? Of course not! The round jewel box was my coveted souvenir and I eagerly awaited its arrival. In typical fashion, I went straight for the brightest fabric swatches and after much agonizing decided on hot pink linen with coral linen accents. A traditional monogram in one of their fantastic fonts is the icing on the cake. I’m sure I’ll be happily using my jewelry round for years to come.
P.S If you’re looking for a special gift, I really cannot speak more highly of Leontine Linens. Their staff is amazing and the workmanship is truly second to none. 

Holiday Gift Guide 2010: For the Jewel Box

Wednesday, December 8th, 2010
Everyone knows that sometimes the best gifts come in small packages….
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Tobi Fairley’s Whimsical Christmas Tree

Tuesday, December 7th, 2010

Interior designer extraordinaire, Tobi Fairley, posted this photo of the delightfully whimsical Christmas tree in her daughter’s playroom and I couldn’t resist re-posting. I’m planning on straying a bit from the classic myself this year, and always appreciate those that take a more colorful approach- it’s such great inspiration!
P.S I’m also completely obsessed with this room in general. How gorgeous is the black and white damask with the pink walls? Add the framed silhouette, gourd lamp, and monogrammed pillow and I die!

Gift Guide 2010: For Your Beau

Tuesday, December 7th, 2010
I hope you all enjoyed yesterday’s gift guide for accessorizing the home! Today I’m sharing a few boyfriend approved gifts to accessorize your arm candy (but I’m sure your brother, best friend or dad would love them too!)
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Every man cave should have a well stocked bar. Give him a head start with these Animal Shot Glasses (1) and a bottle of  Hendrick’s Gin (4)- I promise it tastes as good as it looks! Throw in Jack Spade Matches (7) and a manly candle if you dare. In this Patagonia Retro-X Fleece (6) and Wicked Good Moccasins (10) he’ll be happy to take over the AM puppy duties and let you catch a few extra winks.  I’m sure we all agree smart is sexy so help him look the part with Warby Parker Frames (2) and a masculine but stylish E-Reader Pouch (5). A classic Timex Watch (8) and J.Crew Critter Socks (3) will be welcome and practical additions to his stocking. Finally, help him stay organized with a J.Crew Money Clip (9) and Smathers and Branson Key Fob (11). 

Gift Guide 2010: For the Home

Monday, December 6th, 2010
I always look forward to reading the holiday gift guides in my favorite glossies (and now online mags and blogs too!) so I’ve decided to get in on the fun! This week, I’ll be sharing a selection of gifts I’d be happy to give and receive. First up, a collection of seriously stylish accessories for the home…
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A pair of Pieces Blue Elephants  (1) or an Oomph Tini Table (2) to rest a book and a cocktail.  Iomoi Matches (3) to light a roaring fire or a delicious Diptyque Candle (11). Carthage Lantern (4) for a bit of chinoiserie flair, Kate Spade Camelia Avenue Vase (8) for blooms, and a touch of zebra for the coffee table Furbish Ottoman Tray (5). Deck the walls with a Hugo Guinness ‘Beautiful’ Print (9) or  
 Mariska Meijers ‘Graphic Blossom’ (10), the couch with a Turquoise Pom Pom Blanket and Calypso Leopard Pillow, and set the table with a punch of color Pomegranate Inc. Raffia Placemats (13). Then, after a night of celebrating, snuggle up in block printed John Robshaw Bedding (7).


I hope you enjoyed the first gift guide, there are many more to come!

Lauren Hutton: American Beauty

Sunday, December 5th, 2010

These shots of Lauren Hutton for J.Crew literally stopped me in my tracks. Isn’t she just the epitome of effortless American style? I think so. Also, I really think she gets more beautiful with age. I hope time is half as kind to me! I’m off to enjoy a lazy Sunday with absolutely nothing on the agenda. Hope you all had a great weekend!
P.S be sure to read the whole feature over at J.Crew. Lauren shares some great style advice and I’m taking notes!

A Little Glitz

Saturday, December 4th, 2010

I’m headed to the first of many holiday parties tonight and am in desperate need of a little glitz. Of course, I’ve waited till the very last minute and have nothing to wear so an emergency shopping trip to Georgetown is in my future. If I had my choice, (and money was no object), I’d be strutting my stuff in this stunning Adam dress tonight. Here’s to hoping that I find something equally fabulous that won’t be quite so traumatic to my bank account. 
Are you celebrating tonight? What will you be wearing? Inspire me!

A Rebecca Minkoff Bookshelf

Friday, December 3rd, 2010
Making my list and checking it twice led me to Rebecca Minkoff’s site today, which then led me to this beauty of a bookshelf. I’d be happy to re-arrange my stacks to accomodate such treasures, wouldn’t you? I’m especially crazy about that stunning leopard minaudiere which sadly seems to be sold out everywhere. Are there any handbags your lusting after this holiday season?

Postcards from Penguin

Friday, December 3rd, 2010
Thanks so much to everyone that commented yesterday on my little gallery wall, I’m so glad you liked it! There were some questions about the Great Gatsby cover so I thought I’d share my secret. Earlier this year, Penguin came out with a set of 100 postcards featuring their iconic covers. They were first released in the UK and I was too impatient to wait for them to come stateside so I ordered a set off of ebay. The Gatsby cover is one of the postcards from the set, not an actual cover (although I’d love to find a vintage copy!) There are so many great classics in this set, it’d make the perfect gift for any bibliophile!
P.S if you’d like to see more of the covers, we made a photo wall with a bunch in our last apartment.

At Home

Thursday, December 2nd, 2010
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The lack of heat must have finally gotten the best of me since I’m home sick today. Being sick in bed is no fun (even if your sleepy pup tries his best to stay awake and keep you company) so I thought I’d make the most of it and share a bit of the scenery around here. The hallway in our condo was looking a little barren and I just so happened to have a cherished souvenir from Amanda Stone Talley’s studio looking for a piece of prime real estate. There’s no motivation like having guests for the holidays so I grabbed a few other favorites and started hanging. Here it is!
P.S That silhouette is actually me when I was little. Don’t you love how I’m having a stare down with that rhino haha!

Chilly Nights

Wednesday, December 1st, 2010

Our thermostat has been broken for the past two nights which has made for some seriously chilly sleeping conditions! Luckily, my New Englander instincts haven’t completely deserted me and I’ve been layering like a pro. In my opinion, the more layers the merrier so here are a few I’d love to pile on. I just can’t get enough fair isle, tartan, and faux fur. If the snowpocalypse comes again this winter I’ll be ready to hibernate!

Blue Christmas

Wednesday, December 1st, 2010
It may be rainy and gross here in DC today, but I’m not letting that stop me from getting into the holiday spirit! I think this illustration of the Blue Room in the White House is the perfect way to kick off December. Would you believe that the artist is none other than the beautiful and stylish Jacqueline Kennedy? As if we needed another reason to love her…

Ringing in the New Year in Color!

Thursday, December 31st, 2009
This photo of Cameron Diaz at the Met’s Costume Institute Gala went straight into the inspiration file the first time I saw it. The color combination is so vibrant and striking.

I was reminded of this photo when I picked up this gorgeous Amrita Singh bracelet as a little Christmas gift to myself a few weeks back. I’ll be pairing it with a similar colored dress to conjure up a little Cameron tomorrow night.

With Pantone declaring turquoise the color of 2010, what better way to ring in the new year then rocking my new bling!

Better yet, according to Pantone turquoise is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Based on that description, I can’t think of a better color to welcome in the New Year! Happy New Year to you and yours!

Style Twins

Tuesday, December 29th, 2009
Imagine my surprise after buying this coat on a whim from Forever21….

When I spotted its twin at J.Crew for almost five times the price!


Gotta love when that happens!

Color of the Season

Thursday, December 24th, 2009
For once, it wasn’t too difficult to choose a color for my manicure/pedicure. With red Christmas decor all around, what could be more festive?



Orange for Inspiration

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009
I am a perpetual list-maker. There is something so satistying to me about making a list and gradually crossing off each and every item. As New Years is approaching, and resolutions are already floating through my brain, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect notebook to capture all my lists, thoughts, and inspirations.
Since orange is my favorite color du jour, I was instantly drawn to the Hermes Ulysse MM. We can file this one under wildest dreams unless Santa magically places it underneath my tree.

Coming closer to reality are the gorgeous notebooks from the brights collection at Graphic Image. I’ll have one of each please!


In an attempt to be environmentally conscious, I could scoop up one of these notebooks by Ecosystem. You can find them at Barnes in Noble in every color of the rainbow.

I have one last gift to pick up today and then I’ll be wrapping my heart out by the fire tonight! Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas week!

Winter Storm Survival Kit

Saturday, December 19th, 2009
Since much of the east coast has been blanketed in a foot or more of snow I thought I would share with you my must haves for surviving in this winter wonderland.
My first necessity for braving out a blizzard is a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Martha Stewart has a great idea for dressing up your marshmallows. Aren’t they adorable?

Next up, a comfy cashmere sweater perfect for hibernation. This one from Ella Moss looks like it fits the bill perfectly. *Plus, it’s on sale!

Everything is better in leggings!

In my opinion, the Wicked Good Moccasins from LL Bean are the best slippers to weather a winter storm in!

Finally, a cozy cable knit throw is perfectly snuggle worthy and stylish.


I hope those of you on the east cost are safe, warm, and enjoying the snow! I’m thankful I was able to catch the last plane out of DC late last night. Now I’m home and happy in New England!

Kate Hudson in Harper’s Bazaar

Thursday, December 17th, 2009
The pictures of Kate Hudson in this month’s Harper’s Bazaar were just too beautiful not to share. I especially love this first one of her all glammed up in the laundromat!


I hope Kate’s inspired you to put on something with sparkle!

Currently Coveting: Chevron

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009
Lately I’ve been obsessing over chevron. I love it in any form. Whether it be clothing, decor, shoes or accessories I just can’t get enough! I think my most favorite pick up is this navy and white Milly dress. I can’t wait for spring so it can make its debut!
I think part of the reason I love this dress so much is it reminds me of the gorgeous (and oh so out of my price-range) rug by Madeline Weinrib.

I wish West Elm would make their more affordable version in blue/white too!
At $18.00 for a set of ten, these Black Chevron Stripe Notecards from pixielimepress are definitely something my bank account can handle.

Of course I couldn’t do a post on my love for chevron without including Rubie Green! I think it’s time to finally pick up two of these pillows from Fabricadabra.

Missoni’s signature print looks even more fabulous in shades of turquoise. I would love to add these to my ballet flat collection.

Forever 21 is always a great source to pick up trends on the cheap. Check out this leopard and chevron striped scarf. I think this would be a great way to dress up a simple white tee.

Deck the Halls

Sunday, December 6th, 2009
The snow here in DC yesterday definitely helped get me in the holiday spirit! Most of my day was spent decorating the apartment. Even though I will be going home for Christmas I still insisted we have a live tree; I just can’t imagine not having one! My inspiration for my holiday decor was actually found in Good Housekeeping.
I loved the apple greens and white poinsettias they featured here:



After finding some glittering gold pear ornaments in Home Goods I adopted the theme of “a partridge in a pear tree” for our tree. It still needs a few finishing touches, but I think it’s turned out really well! I’ll have to share a pic when it’s finished. Hope you’re all getting into the holiday spirit!