VAUNTE

March 19, 2013

There was an interesting article in this week’s WSJ Off Duty about the growing acceptance of wearing “last season” designer duds and the sale sites that assist in tracking down those coveted pieces that got away. I might be so unfashionable that I was ahead of the curve on this one because I’ve been trolling ebay and the like for years. Regardless, I was excited to be introduced to a new sale site, Vaunte, through the article.

Founded by two former Gilt Groupe employees, I like to think of Vaunte as part The Outnet, part The Coveteur. The website allows you to shop the closets of some seriously stylish ladies (and the deals are ah-mazing–I was so surprised!) but what really drew me in were the accompanying photos from their homes.

Maybe I’m completely nosy, but I find these glimpses into other people’s homes and closets fascinating. I’m totally the person at a party that wants to know all about your tchotchkes and the stories behind them–I just love it!

If you’re not already a member join here. I know I’ll be checking in often for both the clothes and the interiors!

TUCKERNUCKING

March 14, 2013

Lately the weather in DC has been suffering from multiple personality disorder. We went from gearing up for an epic snow storm (turned out to be an epic fail) to enjoying clear blue skies and 60 degree temperatures in the course of a week! Always being one to take advantage of warm weather, my white jeans were on and my nails painted a fresh minty shade before the thermometer even hit 50. Whoops, too soon?

Brody, our golden retriever, was also pretty happy with the situation because it meant taking a much longer walk around the neighborhood than usual. Plenty of time to to do some real estate stalking and take a few pics of my new Isabella Item Tote from Tuckernuck.

I was super excited to partner with Tuckernuck because 1. they’re based in DC (shop local!) and 2. their fresh take on classic American style completely complements my own aesthetic. Here’s the true testament though, I’ve shopped with them before! This monogrammed Sunday Bag was in heavy rotation before the Isabella came into my life. Both are roomy, have zippered interior pockets–a must have in a tote– and are sophisticated in their simplicity. Somehow they make lugging various fabric, wallpaper, tile, and finish samples around look a little more chic!

Next up on my wish list: this ASHA zodiac ring I’ve been coveting for almost a year, this amazing Egyptian revival hieroglyphics bracelet, and this bikini from one of my favorite fabric designers, Manuel Canovas. Happy shopping!

Barbour Liddesdale Jacket | J.Crew Cashmere Long Sleeve Tee (on sale) | J.Crew Cropped Matchstick Jeans | Leopard Flats (similar) | Tuckernuck Isabella Item Tote (gifted)

SPRING IN MY STEP

March 6, 2013

It’s somewhat ironic that I’m posting this as we’re awaiting a snowstorm here in DC, but I’m really looking forward to warmer days ahead. This spring I’m planning to invest primarily in neutral pieces like these perfect sandals by Belle by Sigerson Morrison accented by a few well chosen pops of color and pattern. Lately I’ve been especially drawn to lavender and of course I’ll never tire of leopard.

What will you be adding to your wardrobe this spring?

THIS AND THAT: HUMMINGBIRD FLORAL

March 1, 2013

Cole & Son Hummingbird Wallpaper | J.Crew Hummingbird Floral Etta Pumps

Have you seen J.Crew’s new arrivals? Their latest ‘Style Guide’ hit my mailbox a few days ago and in my opinion it’s one of their best yet! My favorite pieces featured the lovely hummingbird floral print you see on the Etta pumps above. Evidently I wasn’t the only fan as most of the pieces have already sold out online. My size is still available in these chic silk cafe capris and I’m more than tempted.

The print was reportedly inspired by the botanical scenes in Time Life nature books J.Crew’s head designer remembered reading as a child. It’s also strikingly similar to Cole & Son’s Hummingbird wallpaper, don’t you think? Whether you prefer it on your walls or in your closet, you really can’t go wrong with this ladylike print!

Until we buy our own place I’ll have to settle for hummingbirds in my closet but I dream about the day we’re finally able to wallpaper. Which would you choose?

MELI MELO

February 20, 2013

Meli Melo Thela

It’s probably been about six months since I first posted about wanting to invest in a classic bag. There have been a few that had potential but somehow I’ve always found a flaw before pulling the trigger. The bag was too trendy, the color wasn’t right, the straps were too long… you get the picture.

Committing to a bag seems to be as hard for me as I imagine it is for a perpetual bachelor to commit to marriage–and I get it, you just gotta try out all your options before you settle down. At least I know I’m not alone, this recent Wall Street Journal article actually sums up my plight quite well.

I’m hesitant to say it, but I think I might have finally found my match in Meli Melo’s Thela. It’s understated but elegant in its simplicity and definitely has everyday potential. Olivia Palermo is one of its many celebrity devotees but I also haven’t seen it carried to death which is so important!

They can be a little hard to track down, but online retailer Roztayger offers taupe and tan in the large size and mandarin and tan in medium. Hooray for options! What do you think? Is this one worth settling down with?

P.S the bag above is from Meli Melo’s bespoke collection which offers customers the option of adding personal message in gold foil. This one reads “May I Travel With You Forever”. Have you ever heard of anything sweeter? My answer would be YES!