shut up, i love that shirt on you

{outfit post} East Village afternoon...

2012-03-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

I love a relaxing, lay in bed most of the day Sunday as much as the next girl, but there's something to be said for staying in on a Saturday night, sleeping a lot, and having all the energy (and appetite) you could need to bop around town all day on Sunday.

Yesterday was one such day. I managed to wake up, shower and curl my (newly cut - finally) hair - all before noon. Tully and I then cruised via subway down to the East Village to meet Meghan at one of her favorite neighborhood brunch spots, 7A Cafe. The wait for a table was just long enough to hop across the street to Sidewalk Cafe for a bloody mary (me) and mimosas (them) before getting seated. Over coffee, french toast, eggs and a second round of cocktails we caught up, gossiped and just generally reveled in the bustling but relaxed pace of the early afternoon crowd.

Vintage fur; Zara blouse; Aritzia neon bralette; 7 For All Mankind 'Josefina' jeans; Steve Madden flats (super old); Kooba bag (c/o); Ray Ban aviators.

After brunch, Meghan and I parted ways with Tully and walked over to The Smile to meet Christine, Morgan, Jessie and Eliot for more snacking, cocktailing and catching up.

I'm easing into the neon trend by sporting just a peek under this sheer-ish blouse from Zara.

Now, you may totally disagree with me here, but I am so ready for pointy-toe flats to make a comeback. Whether or not it happens, I'm rocking 'em out. I've had these suede Steve Madden ones for no less than six years. They're easy, ladylike, and make my boyfriend jeans look a little more sophisticated, no?

Bracelets are vintage and Amanda Pearl; Michael Kors watch; rings are Tiffany & Co., vintage and c/o Accessorize.

It was another what has become rather typical winter day this time around in New York. Mild, breezy and sunny. There's still a crisp in the air that lets you know spring hasn't quite arrived, but it was absolutely bare ankle appropriate. The East Village is quite the cool part of town, and let me tell ya - my little outfit here was not so right for Thompkins Square Park. However, someone was amused by our little photo shoot and soon enough...

I was in love. These little foofs were so sweet and affectionate - and the dogs' owner practically thrust their leash into my hand. He was gone almost as quickly as he appeared, but it made for some cute photos, eh?

Bow wow!

[Photos by Meghan, of course.]

{PFW} the isabel marant i want...

2012-03-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

I love Isabel Marant's AW12 collection. She maintained her low slung waist and added a western touch. 'Sleek cowboy chic" I say!

I'm especially fond of those red pants and navy jacket with gold buttons.

How much money do you want to put down on the knock-offs of these booties we're going to see come September?

[Images via Style.com]

talking with Lawrence on menswear day...

2012-03-02T11:12:00.000-05:00

Saw this little gem on Lawrence's Tumblr today, originally from another menswear Tumblr called liamsawthis. Fab, eh? Thought I'd share it with ya.

This was on the Sunday of NYFW, menswear day at Milk Studios. I tagged along with Lawrence and all his menswear friends and felt utterly out-dressed (but inspired) by all of them. I'd never seen so many sharply dressed dudes all in one place - and I liked it. A lot.

(wearing James moto jeans, vintage fur and J. Crew sweater, blouse & bag.)

{tgif} some diversions for the day...

2012-03-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's rather a blessing that part of my job is to wander the internets in search of cool things. To be sure, I end up finding a lot of garbage, but isn't it always so exciting when you happen across a real gem? Something that makes you fall in love with blog stalking all over again?

Anyway, I found some of these gems this week, and obviously I feel it's only right to share them with you too. To be fair, they aren't brand new things, and maybe you already knew about them. Well, congrats, I didn't. So here we go with some fancy fun things for your Friday...

James Nord: Cool, handsome photographer with awesome insider fashion access. His tumblr is visually gorgeous and also quite smart.

A Piece Of Toast: I found this lifestyle, fashion and interior blog last week and I can't get enough. It's run by two sisters and they both have really wonderful taste and a talent for highly addictive content.

Tulip Louise: I didn't think it was possible to come across another amazing personal style blog that I hadn't heard of - but I found Anna's blog though a friend's blogroll and now I'm hooked.

Isaac Likes: I like this tumblr. It's just full of goodies.

Justin Wu: This guy makes amazing videos. They're mostly fashion focused, and his lip dubs from fashion week are truly priceless.

If We Don't, Remember Me : Before cinemagraphs, there were these awesome movie gifs with accompanying quotes. Simple and effective.

The Love List: Another fab fashion and lifestyle blog - this one with a lean towards the preppier things in life - which I love. It's also visually amazing & inspires me to give my own blog a bit of a makeover.

*Also, that's just an instagram of a screenshot of Jason Segal at the Oscars. Why? Because he's perfect. What more reason do you need on a Friday, hmm?

{petite outfit moment} giddy up...

2012-03-01T09:30:00.000-05:00

Zara blouse; J. Crew cardigan; Urban Outfitters jacket; faux fur stole; BDG denim leggings; vintage and Tiffany rings.

I was having an "above the knee chic" day so you don't need to see my shoes.

You know what I mean?

I'm kind of obsessed with this Zara blouse that has horse heads all over it, and with my chartreuse cardigan, a touch of fur and utility jacket - the effect is very urban equestrian prep, no?

That's a thing. I am pretty sure.

[Photos by the lovely Amanda.]

{accessory to the crime} big black cat...

2012-02-29T09:30:00.000-05:00

I'm not really sure why I decided to introduce this post as 'accessory to the crime' but it felt right at the time. Maybe cat eye shades make me feel a little dangerous and mysterious enough to commit a crime? Whatever. The point is this: I want. I am in some ways a sunglasses fiend (I have quite a few pairs, many of them rather expensive) but in other ways sort of a loyalist. When I find a pair that works for me, I wear them to death. Ray-Ban aviators, anyone?

Lately, I've had a hankering for a new pair. It's been quite a sunny winter in NYC if I do say so myself, and I'm just a teeny, tiny bit bored of my Ray-Bans. They're my forever shades, don't get me wrong - but a girl has to change things up! (Especially when she's wearing sunglasses on le blog all the time...)

I'm quite positive I need a pair of absolutely gigantic black cat eye sunglasses. They're retro, glamorous and timeless when done right. I thought about tortoise, but black really brings the drama - which I like. It's so hard to know what will look right without trying them on - but initially I am totally stuck on the Gucci 'Youngster' and Tom Ford 'Malin.' Both are wildly expensive, go figure. I like investing in sunglasses every now-and-then though, especially in a classic shape. To me they're like bags and jewels: they can become your signature and define your style with just one glance.

What about you? New shades for spring and summer? What shape are you feeling?

{must watch} Garance Dore - Pardon My French

2012-02-28T12:36:00.001-05:00

This is just a quick post to direct you over to one of my favorite blogs, Garance Dore, so you can check out her fashion week video series (that isn't over yet) called Pardon My French. It's cute, it's incredible chic and it inspires me to want to incorporate video into my blog! Now, if only I could get Net-a-porter.com to sponsor me as well...

Here's the first episode:

Check out the rest of the series here.

all my Oscars thoughts, in one place...

2012-02-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

A day late and a dollar short, I know. But I was too tired to compose my thoughts after midnight when the 84th Academy Awards finally ended! Kudos to those who powered through. Anyway, it was an evening spent sighing over gowns, groaning over Angelina Jolie and wishing Meryl Streep was a member of my immediate family. There were some really lovely looks this year, but I think I'm echoing a lot of people when I say, ehhhh to just about all of it. Nothing really extraordinary aside from Gweneth Paltrow in a cape, am I right?

Never the less, I was still swooning all over the place. Here are my nine favorite looks. Yes, nine, because I can, and I feel like it, and this Picnik collage works out nicely. I have bolded my top three best dressed below.

Octavia Spencer in Tadashi Shoji - So, so perfect on her. Flattering and made to win in.

Meryl Streep in Lanvin - I mean, it's really gold, but I'm okay with it.

Milla Jovovich in Elie Saab Couture - I have no idea why she was there, but wow.

Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton - I was confused for 10 minutes, then obsessed.

Gweneth Paltrow in Tom Ford - wins everything. Ever.

Tina Fey in Carolina Herrera - So sophisticated and working that peplum.

Kristen Wiig in J. Mendel - this is the best she's looked on the red carpet for sure.

Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen - intricate and awesome.

Emma Stone in Giambattista Valli - I don't hate the neck-bow, and I love the color.

[Images via Vulture.]

Now, let's talk about the menfolk. As I always say before I start flapping my jaw about menswear, I don't really know what I'm talking about. I only know what visually pleases me. A man in a tuxedo is almost always a win, but there were a few who really caught my eye last night. Here are the dashing dudes I was particularly taken with:

Christopher Plummer in a velvet dinner jacket. Captain Von Trapp, you look sharp.

Tom Hanks in a double-breasted shawl-collar jacket - it sounds so crazy yet looks so, so good.

Gary Oldman's contrasting piping I think adds a really cool detail to his 3-piece tuxedo.

[Images via Esquire]

The thing about the Oscars is that even some of the most fab people don't get to go every year. This is why we are so lucky to have the Vanity Fair After Party. The attendees sometimes change and all the not-as-special-this-year people get to come too. On that note, behold:

Cameron Diaz changed from that weird beige thing into orange Victoria Beckham. She looks phenom.

Emma Stone changed into Chanel Couture - and I'm into it.

Kate Bosworth in Prabal Gurung is sheer perfection. Get it? But really, she is.

Georgina Chapman in one of her own Marchesa designs - go figure, it looks made for her.

[Images via FabSugar.]

That's it. That's all I got. What about you? Who was your pick for best dressed?

mid-week music moment...

2012-02-23T14:36:00.003-05:00

Martin Solveig, Dragonette & Idoling - Big In Japan

I just bought my tickets to see Dragonette at the Bowery Ballroom April 7th.

In honor of that, I give you this.

Happy Thursday!

{bag of dreams} 3.1 Phillip Lim 'Pashli'

2012-02-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

Status bag. 'It' bag. Ugh, don't those phrases just make you want to puke a little sometimes? I sort of hate it when gorgeous designer handbags get absolutely done to death. Don't get me wrong - it's because they're usually absolutely gorgeous and amazing, but it makes it hard for a girl to feel original, no? When every gal with a spare two or three thousand dollars is walking around with a Celine Luggage Tote dangling from her elbow, it takes away from the specialness, at least a little. But what if you just love that bag, like, more than anything, maybe ever? It's like saying Ryan Gosling is your favorite actor, and the living man you are the most attracted to on planet Earth. Join the club gf.

Blame it on street style blogs, or even blogs in general, but when a bag reaches grail status these days, it's no longer an insider thing. Blah, blah, blah, we all know this. So what's a girl to do when she has her eye on a bag that's already on the arm of people like Susie Bubble? I say, get over it and get off the internet. If you don't want to see your bag on everyone, don't look at everyone. I know that's kind of a cop-out answer, and maybe a stronger girl will refuse to buy such a bag - but I'm weak.

A beautiful bag is a beautiful bag is a beautiful bag.

Which brings me to the point of this post - the 3.1 Phillip Lim 'Pashli.' I am a woman possessed. In my eyes, it's a beautiful cross between the Proenza Schouler PS1 and the Celine Luggage Tote. Cool detailing, manageable size and minimal branding. (A flap closure with a lock is also good for crowded subway rides.) Another reason this particular bag has really caught my eye is because I am craving a new 'work bag.' You know, a sophisticated, structured, grown up bag to take to the office and coffee meetings and other important events. Can't you just see it now: skinny moto jeans, pointed-toe flats, cashmere sweater, dark glasses - and that bag. Oohh I think I just got chills.

Anyway, this bag is $875. Plus tax. That's a lot of money any way you slice it. However, we all know the thrill of a great purchase. An epic purchase. It can change your life. I'm going to let this bag marinate in my imaginary wardrobe. I'm also going to start babysitting more, and just see what happens.

What do you guys think about dropping crazy dollars on designer bags (shoes, jewels, etc)? What do you think about dropping crazy dollars on fancy things when the rest of your lifestyle doesn't quite match up? Dear Santa? We all do it, don't we? Make occasional purchases beyond our means?

In my opinion, I'd rather save up for something like that myself (and maybe eat Top Ramen for three months) than ask someone else to spend that much money on me as a gift. Even Santa.

Ready, set, discuss.

{NYFW} the easiest hair trend ever...

2012-02-17T13:01:00.000-05:00

Now that I'm just about half way there with growing out my bangs, I'm looking forward to embracing this chic, sophisticated and frankly, couldn't-be-easier hair trend.

A low pony with a center part.

For extra flair, knot your hair around itself and pin, a la Michael Kors and Anna Sui.

[Images via style.com, from: Michael Kors, Anna Sui, Sophie Theallet, J. Crew, Naaem Khan, Calvin Klien, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.]

{NYFW} six looks I'd wear right now...

2012-02-17T11:58:00.002-05:00

Aaaaand the NYFW posting rolls on...

I think this might wrap up my runway coverage for the season, but you never know.

These are six of my favorite looks from six different collections - obviously. From poncho skirts to printed pants to a flowing Grey Gardens-inspired print dress, I want all these things.

Now.

Please.

[Images via style.com]

{NYFW} six picks from Proenza Schouler...

2012-02-16T10:12:00.002-05:00

Jack and Lazaro produced another amazing collection for Fall 2012, is it any surprise?

Drop waists, Asian prints, amazing details and legs, legs, legs.

Is it Samurai chic or #chictothenextlev? You decide.

Either way, their girl is strong, cool, probably hangs out in the East Village and manages to look threateningly great even when she hasn't showered in days.

[Images via New York Magazine]

{NYFW} six picks from J. Mendel...

2012-02-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

J. Mendel is always a treat, and this collection was one of my favorites this season.

From the fluidity of the skirts to the razor-sharp cut-outs, everything looked like how a modern woman might dress if she were trying to personify the Chrysler Building.

Does that make sense? I'm thinking deco-inspired, sleek, dramatic and sophisticated.

Stop me if my metaphors become to abstract.

[Photos via Style.com]

{NYFW} Marchesa, my heart...

2012-02-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Listen.

I don't really know what to say about Marchesa here.

I only posted one look (and I think it's my favorite), because if I posted them all, it would be ridiculous. Get thee to style.com, and let your eyeballs just have a little party.

Intricate, lacey, frothy, ornate, royal, grand, gorgeous...

Perfection, if you ask me.

[Image via style.com]

{NYFW} trend alert: party pants...

2012-02-15T12:23:00.000-05:00

I call 'em like I see 'em, and I am calling right now that we will all be wearing cropped, printed pants come Fall, if not earlier. They have been popping up here and there before now, but they were an undeniable presence this week at NYFW. From Suno to Band of Outsiders to J. Crew - there's a print to suit any style. I'm particularly fond of the bird print at Tibi, but also love the abstract black and white floral from Derek Lam.

I can't wait to see you all at a fabulous party where not a single person is wearing a dress or skirt. Party pants for all!

[Images via New York Magazine.]

{NYFW} Oh, Oscar...

2012-02-15T10:18:00.004-05:00

The final look from Oscar de la Renta's runway show yesterday evening.

I feel like the only accurate word for this dress is frothy.

Frothy in a really, really good way. I love the edging on the tulle.

[Image via The Cut.]

{playlist} wintery mix...

2012-02-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's a bittersweet day for me in New York City - my last day of NYFW. It's been an amazing season, and I'm overdue to share my experiences with you. I'm hoping to round up a diary post for you (like last season - but with more photos), and will set aside some time to work on it this weekend!

In the meantime though, I've been cultivating a little playlist for this chilly (but by no means freezing) winter season we're having. It's a mix of indie, cozy and sweet songs compiled over a few weeks - with much help (as usual) from friends near and far.

The Wintery Mix

1. Couer d'Alene - The Head & The Heart
2. Fire - Yukon Blonde
3. Somebody That I Used To Know - Walk Off The Earth
4. Too Insistent (Trentemoller Remix) - The Do
5. Seperate Lives - Diego Garcia
6. Brooklyn - Theo Katzman
7. Jolene - Dolly Parton
8. Beggar In The Morning - The Barr Brothers
9. 1957 - Milo Greene
10. Water - Yukon Blonde
11. Beduin Dress - Fleet Foxes
12. Lost In My Mind - The Head & The Heart
13. Bloomington, IN - Netherfriends
14. Port of Call - Beirut
15. Called To Tell You - Theo Katzman
16. Call Me Al - Limousines
17. Something Good -Evan P. Donoahue

To listen to the mix on Grooveshark, clickity-click right HERE.

be my valentine...

2012-02-14T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentines Day!

Here's what I'm loving today...

1. Coffee in thematic cups

2. My friends with festive balloons

3. My fav look from the Kate Spade AW2012 presentation

4. Carrie & Big in Paris

5. Duh. (via Kate Spade)

6. Topknots at Erin Featherston

7. Inslee's illustration for Kate Spade (yeah girl!)

8. Eloise in Paris

9. Cherries in Chinatown

Hope your day is filled with love of any and every kind. Mine sure will be: fashion shows, feasting with friends, and delicious cocktails.

{outfit post} 12 girls 1 table...

2012-02-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

I woke up to snow swirling wildly through the sky between the buildings on my street Saturday morning. My first thought wasn't, "Hooray! So pretty!" It was, "Oh great, now what the eff am I going to wear to this brunch?" It was the morning of a new fashion week season tradition: a big ol' brunch with some of my favorite lady bloggers (and one wonderfully prolific social media personality). We met at Schiller's on Rivington, and did what we do best - consume amazing amounts of breakfast food and coffee.

I ended up wearing an insanely cozy outfit, right down to the wool camp socks over my tights with bean boots. Also, wanna know a secret? A just not-quite-long-enough maxi dress you want to wear like a skirt becomes long enough if you tuck the straps into your bra instead of wearing them over your shoulders. I would be embarrassed to tell you guys that, but I think we're past that now. #fashiongirlsolutions

Madewell hat; H&M shirt; vintage fur jacket; J. Crew snood; Target maxi dress (worn as skirt, thanks Meghan); LL Bean boots; J. Crew camp socks; 1990's Prada bag.

[Photos by the lovely Sonia!]

just another reason to worship Emanuelle Alt...

2012-02-07T10:24:00.000-05:00

So I posted this on Eat, Sleep, Denim before I saw the above video.

Needless to say I love her even more now.

The Vogue Paris team created this video to celebrate the re-launch of vogue.fr.

You're welcome, and happy Tuesday.

{outfit post} saturday on avenue b...

2012-02-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

Le sigh. My friends, I am exhausted. The IFB conference is tomorrow, and I'll be up late getting ready tonight. In the calm before the storm however, I was able to meet up with Meghan and her mom for a little brunch in the East Village. We sipped coffee and sampled the house-made donuts at Back Forty, then obviously stepped outside to snap a few pictures. I'm pretty obsessed with this J. Crew shirt my mom got me for Christmas, and Meghan will be the first to tell you I wear it all the time. Combine it with Breton stripes and tall boots? Please, I may never wear anything else.

H&M mens sweater; J. Crew shirt; BDG denim leggings; Clarks boots (c/o); vintage Ralph Lauren bag; I Ski sunglasses; vintage fur coat.

I've been on the hunt for the perfect pair of tall brown boots for quite some time, and these classic Clarks are right on the money. They've got just a dash of preppy, equestrian flair and I love that they can be worn as above (nearly over the knee) or folded down.

[Photos by Meghan - photographer to the stars.]

will + kate: Barbour jackets, wellies and a puppy on the beach

2012-02-02T13:58:00.000-05:00

I mean...

Seriously?

Dreams upon dreams.

The Duke & Duchess on the beach in Anglesey, Wales.

Le sigh...

[Image via The Cut.]

mid-week music moment...

2012-02-01T12:59:00.004-05:00

Chairlift - I belong In Your Arms

The Knocks helped them out with this track so...

a. I'm already required to like it.

b. It's just good.

Happy Wednesday!

inspirations of the week...

2012-01-30T12:33:00.000-05:00

Just some images I've gathered from around the internets this week...

[They're all from Tumblr & Pinterest; a little Zara, J. Crew, Bazaar, and others...]

mid-week music moment...

2012-01-25T11:15:00.004-05:00

The Limousines covering Paul Simon's "Call Me Al"

This is one of my all-time favorite songs, so I was naturally weary of anyone trying to cover it. I'm not totally obsessed with this version, but I think it's interesting and fun.

Thoughts?

tid-bits from the last few weeks...

2012-01-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

L: Me and my parents in Sun Valley

R: Sarge

L: Seattle

R: Hudson River

L: The girls at Diablo Royale for Rachel's birthday

R: Mexican and mimosas

Eat, Sleep, Denim lately

L: Davies & Dono do printed bags (J. Crew & Louis Vuitton)

R: Dono and Davies do DC

L: Found a little something I live by in DC

R: Meghan loves a good Adirondack chair

L: Champagne before dinner. It's the french way.

R: Georgetown is the cutest

L: Christine & Meghan at the Bonobos event

R: The girls and the chinos

L: Downtown lady

R: A little NYC snow

{outfit post} casual brunch in Cady's Alley...

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

On Monday morning before heading back up to the city, Meghan, her brother Kevin and I went to brunch at Kafe Leopold. It's on a historic little street called Cady's Alley, and the food was stellar. More importantly, the coffee was amazing, and apparently Austrian. We feasted, chit-chatted about Kevin's impending trip to South Africa and before we knew it, it was time to head home, pack up and sit on the Bolt Bus for 5 hours.

J. Crew sweater; H&M grey tank; DL 1961 'Angel' ankle jeans (c/o); Bucco flats; 3.1 Phillip Lim bag; Ray Ban sunglasses; vintage & Samantha Wills (c/o) necklaces.

My mom handed this bag down to me when I was back in Seattle in November. It is absolutely huge, and expands to get even huger. I used it as my "carry on" for the bus down, and took it to brunch so I could bring the DSLR camera. I think if it were a real emergency, I could get all the way inside it and hide from the bad guys.

I love how a bit of glitzy sparkle makes a classic sweater feel just a bit more special.

Michael Kors watch (as usual), Tiffany & Co. rings; Chanel 'Particuliere' nail polish.

[Photos by some budding photographer, I think her name is Meghan.]

mid-week music moment...

2012-01-18T09:30:00.000-05:00

So this week's MWMM is a two-part treat. First, the original:

This is Walk Off The Earth all playing one guitar and covering Goyte's "Somebody That I Used To Know." Pleasant, powerful, soulful and rather amazing to watch. You can all thank Adam for that one.

Next, a mash-up that includes Goyte's original version, mixed with some MGMT and Adele:

I found this little gem via Hype Machine. If you're anyhting like me, right around the 2:42 mark you'll wish the song would go on for another 5 minutes.

Now, if that doesn't put a little pep in your Wednesday, I honestly don't know what will.

{outfit post} jazzing around Georgetown...

2012-01-17T11:12:00.001-05:00

Oh you guys, I just had the most wonderful weekend in Washington D.C. Meghan and I saw some sights, cruised a few museums, ate a lot and spent quality time with people we love! She got to spend time with her younger brother and I got two see two dear friends from Seattle. The weather was glorious - a wee bit frigid and starkly sunny.

On Sunday afternoon, we strolled down from Meghan's aunt's lovely house where we stayed into the heart of Georgetown. We ate pastries from Patisserie Poupon, browsed the racks at Urban Chic, got coffee at Baked and Wired and admired the Kennedy Center from the waterfront. It was a lovely adventure that made me fall in love with the neighborhood. The evening floated away in a sea of cupcakes, champagne, a home-cooked dinner, more champagne and the Golden Globes.

H&M men's shirt; Madewell sweater; Zara coat; 7 For All Mankind Gwenevere skinny jeans (c/o 7FAM via ESD); Report boots; vintage scarf; Amanda Pearl earrings (c/o); I Ski sunglasses; Prada bag.

Indeed, we are that cheesy.

[Photos by Meghan, naturally.]

people's choice awards? i guess...

2012-01-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

Awards show posting makes me tired. And bored. I really just like to watch the red carpet and yell things at the TV (cat lady?) and then forget all about it until Vogue covers the highlights for me a month later. That being said, there were a few gems at the People's Choice Awards that I didn't get to watch because I don't have cable. They're worth noting now:

Elizabeth Olsen - Emilio Pucci

Emma Stone - Jason Wu

Diane Kruger - Prada

Kirsten Dunst - Dior

[images via WWD]

{weekend essentials} long weekend in DC...

2012-01-13T16:18:00.001-05:00

DC with Dono

I'm off for a little jaunt to Washington, DC this weekend with Meghan.

I'm excited to get out of NYC for a minute, see some monuments and just generally get my America on.

Two bloggers, one weekend and a lot of scenic photo opps?

You better believe there will be an outfit post or two coming your way next week.

Happy MLK day everyone, see you Tuesday!

PS: This may or may not be the most accurate Polyvore set I have ever created. I own like 95% of these things. It's the small victories, my friends.

{shoe crush} cap toe flats...

2012-01-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

cap toe flats

I'm aware that the time of the season for little flats is probably drawing to a close. In fact, last night I heard someone on NY1 say something about snow in the forecast. Isn't that just the thing of it? As soon as designers and retailers start saying "Spring!" You're dropping your down coat off at the dry cleaner for it's annual re-fluff in preparation for the months ahead.

Oh, fashion. Anyway, cap toes! I have a feeling they're going to be a thing next season, so why not #treatyoself to a couple pairs now and then admire them fondly until May, or trot around your house in them when you have people over for dinner.

Personally, I'm partial to the Lanvin version that comes in a rainbow of colors, but since I'm not currently blogging for billions, I guess I'll take the cute little neon skimmers from Old Navy (bottom left) or the spiky little ballerinas by Sam Edelman instead.

Here's a few reasons to cap things off next season:

1. A cap toe dresses up a flat shoe for work
2. You can integrate bright color, neon or pastels into a look without fully commiting
3. Two tones is better than one
4. A cream-and-black version will give you a sophisticated Chanel vibe without having to wear a terrible knock-off

Eh? Eh? Caps off to you?

[As always, click the hyperlink below the image to shop the Polyvore set.]

mid-week music moment...

2012-01-11T12:01:00.000-05:00

Dragonette, "Volcano"

I've been a fan of Dragonette for a few years now, and this is one of my favorite tunes, definitely a great pick-me-up for a Wednesday afternoon!

{line to love} Emerson Made...

2012-01-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday! I feel like I used to write gushy little posts like this all the time, and now it seems I haven't done one in ages. So let's get right back to it, shall we? Emerson Made is a NYC-based line of coats, blouses, dresses, skirts, trousers and jeans that I am newly and totally obsessed with. Fun fact? The clothes (designed and modeled by Emerson and photographed by her husband) are made in the Garment District right here in Manhattan. My friend Duncan first turned me onto Emerson Made with this dress, but when I cruised the site further and found the below gems, I fell hard.

For some reason, once I laid eyes on those camo-print trousers I couldn't stop thinking about them. Of course they're currently sold out, but I'm patiently waiting for a re-stock. I think they would be absolutely divine with every sweater ever, with silk blouses (like this one) for work and sassy black heels for dressy occasions. I'm also particularly taken with the Mod Little Black Dress, with it's sexy little slit at the neck and cool, casual pockets. Finally, is it any wonder I'm drawn to these tux pants? They appeal to my little boy prepster side and I'd probably wear them to every party, you know, ever. With a top knot, killer jewels and a sheer white blouse? I know you can see it too.

These are the kinds of pieces that fit perfectly into my new year's resolution to Up My Game. They're high quality, wear forever clothes that I could pass down to my daughter someday.

tgif: a few resolutions, or not...

2012-01-06T09:30:00.000-05:00

This will be my year! This year things will be different! I'm going to work out 6 days a week, lose 10 pounds, start cooking in more and reading more books and trade coffee for tea - all while getting so organized.

Please.

I'm all for renewing yourself and refocusing at the start of each new year, but a leopard doesn't change it's (very on-trend) spots just because it's January. Again. So on that note, here are a few things I'm going to work on, but I make no guarantees. Maybe if I have them written down here I'll try a little harder? We'll see...

Elevate Myself.

I'm telling you, I never cared much for shoes until I moved to New York. Now I crave them more than bags, and sometimes more than bourbon. The resolution to wear heels more is one I try to make every year, but with 3 new pairs purchased in 2011, I'm actually making progress. 2012 will be the year I see more of the world from 5'10" than 5'6".

Find The Balance.

2011 found me in my first full-time job, which I'm still so happy about. I'm glad to have a reason to get up each morning, even if at the time I'm hitting snooze and wishing it were Saturday. Since blogging over at IFB and ESD has become my gig, I've definitely let SUILTSOY fall behind a bit. Hopefully in 2012 I'll find the energy to devote more time to my blog instead of watching hours of Breaking Bad in bed.

Get Culture Shocked.

After living in Manhattan for a while, you finally start to see it as the city where you live, instead of this whirling, crazy, amusement park-like non-stop place where you also happen to work a 9-to-5 (or 8, or 9...). You realize you don't have to rush to get to every restaurant, every museum and every show as fast as you can. You realize that you've set down roots - and these places aren't going anywhere. I think sometimes I've gone too far in that direction and become a little complacent. In 2012 I want to embrace more only-in-NYC experiences.

Up My Game.

This is a two-fold resolution, for my wardrobe as well as my love life because let's face it: I could use an upgrade in both. Better men and better clothes? I should think so. I'm talking less H&M , more Elizabeth & James. Less late-night-at-a-basement-bar, more Saturday-afternoon-at-a-museum. What's that you say? That only happens in movies? Whatever. In 2012, I choose to believe! I'm going to waste less time and less money, and invest in quality. And oh hey, Quality, if you're out there - call me ;)

{playing hostess} Bonobos trunk show event!

2012-01-05T11:23:00.002-05:00

Menswear.
Men.
Cocktails.
Thursday night parties.

I just named 4 of the things I love most in the world.

Luckily for everyone, these loves of mine are all coming together at once for a very fun Bonobos party hosted by Meghan, Christine and me in a couple weeks!

So to all of my guy friends out there (I know some of you read this, so yes - you!), girls with boyfriends, husbands, brothers, guy friends you're secretly in love with - come on down and let the three of us style you up nice.

It will be fun, sexy and stylish, I promise. So go on and RSVP right away so we can spend a wonderful evening together drowning in champagne, chinos and dress shirts!

{reader request} hoofin' it in the snow...

2012-01-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a sparkly and joyous and safe celebration, and are kicking off 2012 in grand style. As I write this I'm cozy by the fire at home, enjoying my last few hours in Seattle before I hope on the red-eye back to New York. It seems as prime a time as any to address a note from a reader I received just before the holidays...

Dear SUILTSOY,

I've been in NYC for too many years to not own a great pair of snow boots. I think I remember you posting about these shearling boots from LL Bean. Think they'll be water proof and warm enough for winter? On this rainy and cold NYC night I'm thinking about how to stay cozy and dry this winter. Have any other suggestions?

Just want to keep the tootsies warm!

From, RL

winter boots

Dearest RL,

This is indeed a quandry I have gone back and forth with since moving to NYC myself. Last year I wore my knee-high rubber boots with warm socks and called it good, but this year I decided to treat myself to an upgrade. (Honestly last year I had no idea the winter would drag on nearly til May.) Well, rather - I side-stepped over to an LL Bean duck boot. They're not much warmer, but with a wool sock they're cozier than rubber boots and have a much better grip in the snow. (I wore them all week in Sun Valley - and they were perfect.)

From the looks of my Polyvore set above, I'm sure you're thinking, this girl's got a duck boot obsession. And while that might be true, it's with good reason. The rubber toe box will keep your feet dry in the slush, and the laces make the boots easy to get on and off after a long day. Add a little shearling lining - forget about it!

For days when it's cold and dry, why not glam it up a little bit with a warm, lined wedge bootie? Just like the other wedges in your wardrobe, pair these with tights and dresses as well as skinny jeans and oversize sweaters.

The bottom line is this - seek out a boot with grips on the soles, a warm lining and either zippers or laces to make them easy to remove with your fingers are chilled to the bone. A final word of warning? Don't go cheap on your feet this winter, and don't lower yourself to Uggs. You can invest in a functional and cool pair of boots, I know you can. Don't give in to the shapeless, chic-less comfort!

here comes the jackpot question in advance...

2011-12-30T11:27:00.001-05:00

This is pretty fantastic.

Zooey & Joseph singing "What Are You Doing New Years Eve?"

Here's to 2012!

xoxo

{outfit post} a little 'Indi' in the valley...

2011-12-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Sun Valley! You guys, would you be mad if I never came back to New York? I'm so happy here, it's so beautiful, and I'm doing nothing but skiing, cross country skiing, eating, shopping, bar-hoping and hot-tubbing. Seriously. I'm barely sleeping and I couldn't be more pleased. Don't worry though, I know I'm on vacation and I'll be back to the big city before I even know it.

I'm sure there are some girls out there who can relate, (guys? I don't know...) but every time I go on a trip, I treat it like I'm getting into character. South Carolina? Southern prep. The Hunt? New England prep. Sun Valley? Glamorous, rustic, mountain prep. (Sue me. Clearly I'm going through a phase.)

Madewell hat; Diane von Furstenberg scarf; Ralph Lauren sweater; Nordstrom faux fur vest; BDG denim leggings; LL Bean boots.

So yesterday I took a little break from winter sports to indulge in some leisure in-town activities. I met up with Caitlin, Carly and Kelly for a (very) late breakfast at Java and some insane consignment shopping at Design Consign. I returned home with my finds, showed them to my mom while we had a glass of white wine, then went back into town to grab lunch at Christina's with Alex, Brett and Tim.

Because of, you know, the kind of people who visit and live in Sun Valley, the consignment shopping is pretty unreal. And because it's Idaho, so are the prices. I picked up this gorgeous blouse for New Years ($55) and little shell miniaudiere ($30) as well as a Ralph Lauren cashmere sweater ($85). What can I say, I'm on vacation! #treatyoself

What can I say about this look other than it's pretty much my new SV uniform. It was unseasonably warm today so I didn't need a jacket, and couldn't resist throwing on my Indiana Jones hat that's so perfect for this place. The sweater is my consignment pick-up from yesterday, and I'm obsessed. It's a men's medium and it's cashmere (what's not to like?). The scarf was a Christmas gift from my dad and the boots - well you know the story with those.

I hope everyone is having a lovely and hopefully relaxing week, stay tuned for more from the val, and if I don't see you on the internets before then, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

(PS: My dad took these photos just outside our front door - am I a lucky girl or what?)

{getting inspired} from the city to the snow...

2011-12-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

Every time I think about my upcoming vacation in Sun Valley, Idaho I get so excited I can hardly type. I just want to put my chin in my hand, let my eyes glass over and day dream of dancing at Whiskey Jacques, a bowl of soul from Java and feeling the icy wind on my face as I ski down Baldy Mountain.

This is a family trip I take the week after Christmas every year, and though I'm growing older and the town is changing, I get that chest-tightening feeling every time we turn onto Main Street on December 26th. Without fail I know exactly what's in store in the coming days and nights, and the feelings of nostalgia, relaxation and excitement are so familiar it's like muscle memory when they come flooding back. It's a week that feels like a bubble - away from reality, away from the city, away away away...

As I explained in this post from the summer, SV is a mountain town with a thing for glamor. It's Old Hollywood heritage and rugged landscape create a lifestyle cocktail that's one part fur coats, two parts ski bum - with a small town twist.

This outfit pretty much sums up the city-meets-mountain vibe I want to achieve with my Sun Valley wardrobe. A tailored boyfriend coat with cowboy boots and an Indiana Jones hat? Please - sign me up. This look is perfect for a coffee date in town, shopping in Ketchum or a movie and bottle of wine at the Magic Lantern.

Alli MacGraw in Love Story. I mean, need I say anything here? A center part, a fur hat, a big white coat and a scarf... She's the picture of 1970's cool, which feels dead-on for this winter season.

#partyforgood thank you & photos!

2011-12-22T13:22:00.000-05:00

I owe such a tremendous thank you to everyone who came out to the #partyforgood event with goods for good on Tuesday night. We had a fantastic turn out, a great time, and raffled off some really fun prizes. Not to mention, together we raised almost $500 for orphans in Malawi! I'm so grateful and thankful for each and every one of your generous donations of time and money.

Here are a few photos from our festive happy hour at Chelsea Manor...

Sonia & Christine

VIP

Debie & friends

Jessie and her hubs, Gerard

Alli, Jess & Sammi

Tulls, Joseph & Rachel

Jessie, Morgan & Christine

Eliot won the gorgeous Bauble Bar necklace in the raffle!

Sammi won a 6 month subscription to Birchbox!

DJ Taylor Deehan provided the perfect soundtrack...

Jessie & Morgan rock a bold lip and a thoughtful pose...

Taylor helped me raffle off our prizes...

Debie & me

Me & the goods for good girls!

mid-week music moment & home again!

2011-12-20T13:29:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of post yesterday, after the amazing #partyforgood event I hurried home, finished packing, took a 3 hour nap and took off for LGA at 4 a.m.

After a rather harrowing journey that involved multiple delays, an emergency landing and no food, I arrived home not too much worse for wear. I couldn't be more excited to get back to my family, old friends, pets, familiar streets, and as I so gushingly mentioned here, my car.

My agenda is pretty much empty compared to all the things I tried to cram in the last time I was home. Christmas is just a time to relax, catch up with family and just play it by ear when it comes to social plans. Per tradition, I'm off to Sun Valley right after Christmas to spend a week skiing, drinking hot toddies and frolicking around in the snow. You can expect tweets, photos and all that good stuff throughout my vacation, because I just know you wouldn't be able to stand so much time without hearing from me.

Surprise, surprise, a little more Bing Crosby, singing "I'll be Home For Christmas."

I'm very original, I know.

{my gift guide} a little give, a little get...

2011-12-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

Alright, alright so here we finally go with my gift guide. Yes, I'm aware that it's almost too late to be posting this, but I figured why the heck not, right? It's pretty and I wouldn't be apposed to giving or getting any of these things after the Christmas season has passed. #treatyoself / people have birthdays, you know? Anyway, it's just a few bits and baubles that I've had my eye on lately, so I hope you enjoy!

my gift guide

1. Barbour 'Beadnell' Jacket - This is one of those pieces that I've been lusting after majorly since The Hunt. Well actually, it was long before that, but there's something about the feeling of that waxed canvas, the smell of it after it's been rained on... Okay I know this sounds weird but it makes me very nostalgic. Anyway, I don't want the jacket for the smell, I want it for it's multi-season, multi-decade wearability. It's a jacket you (or I) would have forever.

2. DV by Dolce Vita 'Pura' in Taupe - I am having a serious thing for lace-up wedges these days. Blame it on my new love of flared pants or my mother's insistence that it's time for me to start wearing heels more, but I can't get enough. These taupe ones will look as cool with tights and a dress as they will with rolled boyfriend jeans or peeking out from under your flares.

3. Charm & Co Monogram Disk Bracelet - File this one under give and get. It's a gorgeous, delicate and personal piece of jewelry; one to treasure and pass on through the generations. What can I say? I'm a sucker for gold and monograms - and I bet a few of you out there are too.

4. Charm &Co Scorpio Zodiac Charm - Like I said, personal and made of gold. I'm a scorpio, so hence why I picked this one in particular - but you can also engrave the back of this charm, which is doubly personal when it comes to gift-giving.

5. Lulu Frost Art Deco Brass & Crystal Bracelet - So it appears this little bauble is sold out on Net-a-Porter, but that's okay because it's too expensive for my actual gift giving-and-getting situation anyway. It's just so gorgeous, though! The main idea is just that a little sparkle goes a long way during the holidays, so treat me (or a lady in your life) to a little frosting. (Remember How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days? "Frost Yourself...")

6. iPad 2 Dodo Case in Green - I have the original iPad but I can't imagine that this wouldn't still work. The case I have now is black and practical and doesn't look like a cool journal. This is cool and protective and a great price for gift-giving on any budget.

7. Benefit 'They're Real!' Mascara - This can also be filed under the give and get categories. I love this mascara with all my heart and would recommend it to anyone who loves a nice, dramatic lash. You get curl, volume and length without any clumping or flaking.

8. Karen Walker 'Number One' Sunglasses - I know these are like, the blogger sunglasses, and everyone has had them forever by now, but I still like them. If you know someone well, a cool pair of sunglasses is usually an awesome and well-received gift. Additionally it's one that if it's not quite right, is easily exchangeable for a more flattering style without losing the sentiment.

9. J. Crew Printed iPhone 4 Case - Again, sold out. Some gift guide this is turning out to be, eh? But never the less, an iPhone case is a perfect stocking stuffer, and there's one to suit any personality.

10. Moleskine Large Red Daily Diary in Red - Yep, I'm one of those people who still keeps a hand-written agenda. Sue me, but I just don't get along with Google calendar. I have this notebook currently in black, and obviously it's about to run out. For 2012, I'm thinking red.

11. Jacques Levine 'Bel Esprit' Slippers - Things we already know about me: I love a good embroidered velvet shoe, and I love ballet flats. Something you may not know? I also love sheerling-lined anything. JL was kind enough to gift me a pair of these dainty little slippers - so they go in the give category. They're sweet, luxurious and perfect for flighting about the house with your wine or coffee. Don't believe me? Inslee illustrated numerous lovely scenes that say otherwise.

There you have it, SUILTSOY's guide to giving and getting for 'Holiday Time 2011' or as we call it in my house, Christmas. No matter the holiday or who you might be shopping for, I wish you love and happiness this season and good luck with all the gifts!

PS - One last gift idea if you're looking to spread a little good this holiday season... Why not make a donation to goods for good on behalf someone you love in the form of an e-card. It'll feel good, I promise.

Or come to the #partyforgood event TONIGHT! It'll be the best present you could get me - I swear :)

a petite outfit moment...

2011-12-20T09:30:00.001-05:00

For holiday festivities over the weekend I layered up with a fitted black mini dress, my new Levi's denim shirt (obsessed), my crazy silver sweater coat from H&M, new Steve Madden booties and a little faux fur neck. Oh, and of course a selection of festive accessories.

And there's Tulls of course, wearing F21 heels and Moira's darling tartan blazer.

I've had this Christmas charm bracelet since I was probably about 5 years old. It's silly but I cherish it and make sure to pull it out every season.

Sequins and faux fur, #soluxurious.

I've been on a fruitless hunt for the perfect little black suede booties forever. I have been dying for a pair to wear with my super-long flares and tights and dresses, and these fit the bill - especially because they ring in at just under $80.

a little something that sparkles...

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not know, I'm big on accessories. And big accessories. Give me and oversize gold watch or a statement necklace and I'm a happy girl. So you can imagine what a treat it was when Australian jewelry designer Samantha Wills sent me a virtual treasure chest of baubles that are right up my alley.

Pretty much obsessed with this deco-style necklace, it dresses up even my most boy-ish shirts.

A bold cuff that goes perfectly with my denim work shirt.

A necklace like this does all the talking for you. I'll be pairing it like so with a plain white t shirt and fancy skirts for all my holiday parties. (The best part is that you can actually detach some of the strands to down-play the statement if you want!)

Cable knit & coinage.

[All baubles c/o Samantha Wills.]

{guest music guide} end-of-the-year round up...

2011-12-19T09:30:00.000-05:00

As he explains below, I asked my friend Adam to create a music gift guide for the ol' blog. He has phenomenal taste in music that's wildly similar to mine, and many of the MWMMs that pop up on Wednesdays come from his recommendations. Naturally, I thought he would be perfect for this task, but as he points out, music is a pretty tough gift to give in these days of Grooveshark, Spotify and Pandora. Instead, he came up with the brilliant solution of summing up some of the best artists he listened to this year and bundling it all into a funny and helpful round up for you!

Editor's Note: There are some references to adult activities both legal and not in the proceeding text. If' you're not an adult, well, cover your eyes and scroll on past. As for the rest of you, feast your eyes and ears...

Christmas is right around the corner, as is Hanukkah, andmaybe even Kwanzaa (Wikipedia update: it’s Dec. 26th – Jan. 1st),so you probably have some shopping to do. Taylor requested a music-based giftguide, but here’s the very best guidance I can give: Unless someone specificallyasks for an album, or sings songs from it in the car, or the shower, or hums itat their desk, don’t give an album as a gift. It will fail, and the recipientwill have to open it and force a stupid grin and you’ll see right through itand Christmas will be ruined for everyone. And then grandma will walk out ofthe kitchen without her pants on again and your boyfriend/girlfriend who’sspending his/her first Christmas with your family will get a face full of old,old skin and you’ll break up and end up alone forever. Anyway, please note thatI haven’t listened to most of these albums in their entirety. Nor do I own mostof them. Some of these artists don’t even have full albums out, as far as I cantell. So there’s a healthy deal of speculation in this article, but just thinkof it as room for more Christmas (holiday? I don’t care) surprises.

Lana Del Rey

People like Lana Del Rey’s music. I like Lana Del Rey’smusic. Born to Die, Diet Mountain Dew, and Video Games are all strong tracksthat sound just like what you’d expect a large-lipped, sultry singer toproduce. There’s a whole bunch of hubbubabout her transition from a goody two-shoes struggling singer into some sexxxyhipster, but I don’t really understand it and only really read the headlines,so you’re on your own there. Just know that people are talking about her forone reason or another, and her tunes are worth listening to.

The Weeknd

Lana Del Rey is sexy, and The Weeknd is sex. It is drugs. Itis everything you believe happens in the dark upper balconies of warehouse parties.It is heavy, sweaty bass and smooth, almost crooning rap. Its seductivequalities don’t discriminate between male and female targets. This is one albumI’ve listened to from start to finish, and it does not disappoint. In fact, thetracks line up nicely, and you should indulge in an hour-or so listening sessionto appreciate how well this album is put together. High for This and House ofBalloons/Glass Table Girls (really two songs in one) are both must-listens.

Skrillex

Skrillex is dubstep for the masses. What Elvis Presley wasto rock and roll, Skrillex is to dubstep, but with a distinctly more lesbianlook. He’s taken music from its urban roots and presented it to a large, youngaudience in a palatable form. His dubstep is white bread enough (as in, towardsthe less experimental end of the spectrum) for a large listener base toappreciate, and it’s quickly gaining traction. Parents are somewhat offended bythis DJ’s ear-destroying sonic output, but dubstep in general is finding itsway into mainstream pop music, so get educated. The best part about Skrillex ishow skreewawawaawaaaa wompwompwompwahwomp.

Rebecca & Fiona

I’m using Rebecca & Fiona as a nice segue betweenelectronic/dance music and a female vocalist. These two ladies have created afew tracks worthy of note, including Jane Doe, Bullets, Turn it Down (acollaboration with Kaskade), and Luminary Ones. These make for great at-worksongs for those of you lucky enough to have a headphone-friendly workplace. Idon’t know much about them, but from what I can tell they are two Swedish babeswith a knack for dance music. I’m really hoping to hear more from them in thenear future.

Adele

I love Adele. Everyone should love Adele. If you don’t, youhate curvy women, or you’re misogynist, or maybe deep in the closet, orxenophobic, or your parents didn’t love you enough. I don’t care. Rolling inthe Deep, Someone like You, and every cover, remix, and what-have-you derivedfrom this woman’s shattered, fragile soul will have an immediate emotionalimpact on you. If you like her tunes, look up Marina and the Diamonds (anotherUK-raised singer) or Duffy (same deal), who knock it out of the park when itcomes to white girls singing soul music. Also, I’m obligated to add somethingabout Florence + the Machine. Her new releases are stellar. She provides my personaldaily loop-fest, and her newest album—with tracks like Heartlines, Shake It Out, What the Water Gave Me, and Only If for a Night—is outstanding.

Mumford and Sons

I like Mumford and Sons, and so does everyone else, so blahblah blah blah buy their album. They’re Grammy contenders, how can you not buytheir album? The Cave and Little Lion Man are my favorite tracks to date, but Ihaven’t done a lot of research on the rest of their music (Winter Winds?Something to that effect) and frankly I don’t have enough wine left to make acase for spending more time on them. You get it.

Drive Soundtrack

I’m going to fill this paragraph up with spoilers, so if youhaven’t seen the movie, stop and just buy this album. Trust me. Spoilersstarting…Now. This album will make you want to put on a quilted jacket anddriving gloves and paint everything in neon and stomp skulls until you feellike all that’s left beneath the sole of your boot is cracked eggshells and theinnards of a pumpkin. The tracks on this album will make you feel like you livein the heyday of convertibles and white suits and blow. It takes you on ajourney that is sometimes inspiring and other times downright sinister. A RealHero, Tommy’s Theme, and Nightcall are all standout tracks. Turn off thelights, put on some sunglasses, and turn up the subwoofer. You’ll find yourselfin a strange, strange place, and you will like it. You don’t get to seeChristina Hendricks naked and someone gets stabbed with a fork. Told you therewere spoilers.

[Fun fact: adding “repeat” after “youtube” in a YouTube URLwill bring you to a page that will loop the video. For example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5ZhBAylbN4can be turned into http://www.youtuberepeat.com/watch?v=G5ZhBAylbN4for an eternity of music.]

{guest gift guide} for the girly girl...

2011-12-16T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today's gift guide comes from a girl who's face you see on this blog almost as often as mine! That's right, it's Tully! Her first name is actually Hailey, but I don't call her that so you don't have to either. Tulls and I always say that our style is almost exactly the same except for one, critical difference. In the Venn diagram of our (formerly) shared closet, we intersect with jewelry, accessories and the basics, but on her individual side she leans feminine and I lean masculine. She's the heels to my flats, the dress to my separates. If you're thinking that together we had a near-perfect wardrobe at our disposal - you're right. Anyway, because she's so girly and great, I asked Tully to create the ultimate gift guide for the ultra-feminine gal on your shopping list.

I'ma true girly girl. There's no way around it. I naturally gravitate towards laceand ruffles and I own more eye shadow than a MAC counter. Floral patternsare a staple in my closet and I've never met a shoulder pad I didn't love. On any day I'll find any excuse to wear a dress and I only sport ablazer when paired with a mini. I believe in the power of over-sized earringsand I've made it my personal mission to convince a certain roommate to wearheels.

Pleasedon't get me wrong-- I'm not hating on menswear inspired pieces. I love agood flannel and I even own a pair of boyfriend jeans. However, I like myandrogynous apparel to be more prim and tailored than frumpy andloose. It's amazing what a daring slit or well placed hem can do for anotherwise manly pattern. In my opinion, feminine fashion is as current asit is classic and it’s not so much about bows and boustierres, (although thoseare fun too), but more about having an endearingly effeminate personal style.

Tully's Guide #2

Clutches:

Beinga girly girl kind of makes you a crazy bag lady and when it comes to purses I’ma total clutch kleptomaniac. My closet is filled with clutches- some worth keepingand some that have seen too many nights out on the town. I value a designerhandbag as much as I do a vintage flea market steal but trendy bags come and goso it’s important to choose your investments wisely. Considering both mypassion for clutches and my love of leopard, the House of Harlow 1960 OrlinaClutch is at the top of my covet list. I’m also dying for the Embellished MazeClutch from Forever 21- talk about the perfect New Years bag!

Florals:

Everywhere.All the time. From dresses and tops to bedspreads and couches to scarves andbackpacks- anything can be made girly with the touch of a floral pattern. Ibelieve that floral is eternally beautiful and almost alwaysacceptable. The Free People Long Sleeve floral patterned dress is not onlyaffordable, but can totally make the transition from winter to spring. And formore floral fun, the BDG High Rise Grazer Cigarette jeans will show yourregular wash jeans what’s what.

Dresses:

Allday, every day. Dresses are the ultimate girly must have and I believe there'sa style for every girl. Whether it’s empire, drop waist, mini or maxi, you havea dress soul mate, believe me. Dresses are a necessity like, say, water. So I’m pretty surethey’re always on my wish list no matter what the season. I’m lusting over theVersace for H & M dresses - that gold number is simply stunning!

Skirts:

Speakingof girly girl necessities, SKIRTS top the list as well. When I was five, I worea pink tutu over every outfit for a whole year. Now that’s dedication! As aloyal skirt wearer I believe the more the merrier, and I refuse to acknowledgethat women’s “work pants” are a real thing (much like belly chains or Crocs).So I interpret business casual to mean skirts only. I’m currently looking toadd to my collection and I’ve been obsessing over the Baroque Mini Bodycon fromTop Shop as well as the adorable Asos Mini Skirt (with Bow). Both skirts areelegant, feminine and offer tons of ‘dress up or dress down” potential.

Perfume:

Agirly girl has to SMELL like a girl. I’m a bit of a perfume collector and I’mconstantly updating my scent. Most of us have a go-to perfume that we chosedepending on what smells we’re most attracted to and what scents are mostattracted to our skin. My absolute favorite is Burberry Brit - can’t explain whythe smell works for me but I think the answer has something to do with science.So in doing my research for new scents I’ve recently stumbled upon Miss DiorCherie - it’s sweet and slightly seductive and best of all, it’s not so potentthat you’ll scare your friends away.

Candles:

Myroommates think I'm the resident fire marshal since I once said Christmas treesare a "fire hazard" and I've been known for unplugging hairstraighteners while they’re in use. But fire safety aside, I'm a candlefanatic. Not only do candles fancy up a room, they are just plain sexy. I don'tgo for seasonal smelling candles, (just because it's the holidays doesn't meanthe entire house needs to smell like cinnamon). I like to play it safe withmild scents like Voluspa’s Ambre Lumiere, for a sweet yet subtle aroma.

Tully's Guide #2

Jewelry:

Neverleave home without it. Like anygirly girl or hip hop artist, I’ve often been known to wear too much at once.That being said, less really is more. Minimal pieces with an elegant edge, likethe Rhinestone Crescent necklace from Forever 21, are an excellent andinexpensive way to make a statement. The same goes for simple gold and silverpieces. Lately, I’ve been in love with the Baublebar monogrammed necklaces asthey are a divine mix of trendy and classic style. Seriously, my initials havenever looked so good!

Fur:

Likediamonds, I’m talking faux here. A faux fur jacket or vest instantly feminizesany ensemble and when you don’t want to throw on twenty pounds of layers, furis the perfect way to warm up. I love the affordability of Zara’s Leopard coatas well as the Winter Faux Fur Vest from Quiksilver. Gimme.

Shoes:

Guesswhat? There IS such a thing as comfortable five inch heels. Here’s a hint: thethicker the heel, the longer you'll be able to walk. And wedges are a greatplace to start. Leave the toe cleavage out of it and find a heel that gets youfarther than the front door. When you can't afford designer labels, brands likeAldo and Steve Madden excel in making affordable, sexy footwear. As I tellTaylor, practice makes perfect and before you know it wearing heels is abreeze. And when isn't, well, that's why we have skin colored Band-aids.

Books

I guess youdon’t have to be a girly girl to love the Real Housewives. You don’t even haveto be a girl. You just have to enjoy trashy TV- and I DO! But the least trashyof all the housewives is definitely Mrs. Lisa Vanderpump. Not only is she asuccessful restaurateur, she’s got killer feminine style. Her entire house iscovered in fresh flowers and pink accents, and she’s basically draped indiamonds at all times. Lisa’s book is full of how-to’s for being a fantasticparty hostess. I don’t know about you, but I’m dying to read up. If you’re notin the mood for reality TV and want some advice from a real real woman, “The Modern Girl’s Guideto Sticky Situations” is the best book in town. It’s full of witty and wisesolutions to handling any situation life throws at you. Spolier alert: I’veactually read it. But this book is full of SO much useful info that it’s worthanother few reads.

AdditionalGoodies:

Ilove having an adorable makeup bag and the Kate Spade Live Colorfullycollection is perfect for holding all that eye shadow! Some additional,fabulous goodies that made my list are:

SidewindingCuff – Anthropology

ILove New York Perfume- Bond No. 9

PartyClutch- Zara

RalphWrap Dress- Rory Becca

SweetieSoft Bralette- Rebecca

mid-week music moment...

2011-12-14T12:05:00.000-05:00

You may not know this, or I may have proclaimed it on the blog before I'm not really sure, but I love Bing Crosby. His voice is like whiskey, honey and heaven all rolled into one. I've told people before that if something really strange happened and everyone on Earth had to have the same voice, I would want it to be that of Bing Crosby.
Is it weird that I think of things like that? Absolutely. But take a listen to his rendition of "Mele Kalikimaka" and try not to enjoy it. I dare you. Have you seen White Christmas? Come. On.
This week's (holiday) MWMM goes out to my Hawaiian aunt, Lily!

{guest gift guide} the artistic fashionista...

2011-12-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

Ladies and gents, (there are a few gents out there, right?) today's gift guide is a real treat. I won't say much because this girl doesn't really need an introduction at SUILTSOY. I mention her frequently here and on the Twitters, and you get to feast your eyes on her amazing illustrations every time you visit my site, my Facebook page or my Twitter profile. So without further ado, the most beautiful gift guide you'll see this season - guaranteed.

Hello! I'm Inslee, Taylor's illustrator friend and trusty expert on gifts to give to a creative, artistic, fashion-focused girl.

Okay, so disclaimer: maybe I got a little carried away with the price points... This has always been a problem of mine. When I was eight I wrote and asked Santa for a Land Rover. But I think any artist-type girl would be just as excited about fresh cut flowers as they would be about some of these big ticket items. After all, being an artist means appreciating the little details that make life just that much more sparkly.

As Marcel the Shell might say, REEAADDDD ONNNN....

1. Kiehls Ultimate Strength Handsalve

This is the best thing everfor the artist whose hands are constantly covered in paint and in and out ofwater but also wants to maintain a perfect manicure. This lotion is a lifesaver for me, and would make a perfect stocking stuffer!

2. Arches Watercolor Blocks

This is the Cadillac ofwatercolor papers. I'm completely in love with it. I would be over the moon ifi found a stack of these under the tree.

3. Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty, Metropolitan Museum of Art

I love collecting coffeetable books that feature fashion, illustration, art, icons of style, etc. andthis is the ultimate coffee table book. Equal parts terrifying, fascinating andbeautiful - it's the perfect thing to causally leave sitting out to intimidateguests with your dangerous taste in art.

4. Jacques Levine "Inslee" Slippers

Shameless plug for theslippers named Inslee! I just got this leopard pair and they're perfect shoesto wear while I'm busily illustrating. A perfect Christmas gift especially forany one who is named Inslee / is my stalker / likes slippers.

5. J. Crew Toggle Coat in Deep Alpine:

For days spent trolling Manhattan for stylish sightings to sketch, this coat would be perfect - jeweltone, toggle clasps and a hood. It's functional and chic.

6. Intuos4 Pen Tablet

This is the coolest gadget. It allows you to draw free-hand on the tablet and captures even the most minutedetails of your illustration on screen. This thing is vital for anyoneattempting to be creative in this digital world.

7. Apple Thunderbolt Display

With all the graphic work youcan do on the tablet, a little lap top screen might start to cramp your style. This display meshes with your laptop to give you a luxuriously over sized workspace.

8. Oscar de la Renta d'Orsay Pump

because it would be amazingto be the girl worthy of being sketched in her killer heels instead of theartist eyeing them enviously for a change!

9. Kate Spade "Victoria" Faux Fur Pullover

If you're going to wear Oscarshoes you're going to need some glamorous fur to compliment them. This ison sale. Forget Santa, i may buy this right now.

signs of the season...

2011-12-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend felt like the one that really solidified the start of the holiday season for me. We had one of our best girlfriends from college in town from Boston, one of my great guy friends in from Seattle, cold but amazingly sunny weather, and no shortage of holiday-themed activities. Via my new obsession (Intstagram), here's a peek at some of the fun...

Friday night kicked things off with a festive, crafty, wine-filled and wonderful party hosted by Grace, and attended by some of my most favorite lady-bloggers (and tweeters, ehem, @coachblkrwomen). Picture-in-pictured above is Christine, Alicia, myself, Meghan, Eliot and Jessie.

From talking fashion and crafting it was straight into more of a Christmas lights, Coors Light and living room dance party party at our neighbors apartment.

Saturday we bundled up and ventured out to get our holiday tourist on because Alli was visiting from Boston. We walked in Central Park, foolishly tried to walk down 5th Avenue to see the windows at Bergdorf's and Bendels, then swung by the tree at Rockefeller before having a swell cocktail nearby then getting caught in the most horrific human traffic jam ever. (Lesson learned: Might as well just Google image search "Rockefeller tree at twilight on a Saturday" rather than actually be there. Not. Worth. It.)

Our post-sidewalk madness was quickly appeased when we got down to the E train platform at 53rd and 5th just in time to get on the old museum train that's running on the M line for the holidays. The cars are all authentic pre-WWII and absolutely too much fun, from the vintage ads to the ceiling fans to the rattan seats. We rode in a different car (and took too many photos) between each stop because they were all different. I have no idea how to tell you to make sure you find this if you're in NYC, but you should definitely try.

Saturday night was another LES adventure with the usual suspects, so I allowed myself to laze about the apartment and catch up on my shows most of the day on Sunday. Later in the evening though I met up with Jerry and Alex and we popped down to my new favorite spot Aria for wine and the best Christmas ambiance in the West Village.

tgif...

2011-12-09T11:24:00.001-05:00

We celebrated Moira's birthday in grand, southern-jam-band-style at Brooklyn Bowl last night.

That's their epic disco ball.

(This is the band we saw.)

From one good night to the next, tonight I'm off to two very different holiday parties, so stay tuned for a little recap of all that madness on Monday.

Wishing you all a fun, festive and safe weekend!

a little Jenni Kayne pre fall 2012...

2011-12-08T14:23:00.001-05:00

Jenni Kayne is one of those designers who comes out with collections season after season that I look at and think to myself, "Seriously, I would wear all of this." Her Spring 2012 collection was preppy, tailored perfection, and her Pre Fall 2012 has that same vibe - but with a fur-trimmed leather-infused edge.

Of not here is that leather dress, cropped fur coat and sequin t-shirt sweater. I want all of it on my body right now, and additionally I am now deeply considering a little ombre touch for my hair.

[Images via New York magazine]

{guest gift guide} the stylish pet owner...

2011-12-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

Today's gift guide comes from Morgan, my new-ish neighbor & blogging friend down the street in the West Village. She has a big lovely and love-y dog named Lua, and she's also rather stylish. Naturally, I could think of no one better to put together a collection of gifts suited for the well-heeled dog-walker in your life.

Hi, I'm Morgan from Morgan and Lua. This is a collection of gifts that would be lovely for the pet owner in your life.

Klean Kanteen

Perfect for those early morning calls to duty (read: doodie). Brew a cup of Joe or your favorite herbal tea and enjoy long strolls around the neighborhood with your pooch. The 16 oz. insulated Klean Kanteen is made from high quality food-grade stainless steel that contains no harmful chemicals or toxins. It'll keep your drinks warm and you'll get extra points with Mother Nature for staying away from all those disposable cups.

Masaai Beaded Dog Collar

Doggy style meets function. Throw this beaded leather collar, with appropriate name tag of course, around your pups décolletage for a change of pace. Proceeds from this purchase will help support and protect the African Painted Dogs, one of the most endangered animals in Africa. It's a win, win, win situation. With just one little gift you're making your friend happy, their doggy dapper, and helping protect the painted dog population.

Fisherman-knit Sweater

A timeless sweater, this would be spot on for any animal lover. Just think of how much cuter you'll be on your daily jaunt through town. Nothing beats a classic, cozy, creamy, comfy Fisherman Sweater. Only thing you might want to think about is including some lint rollers in the gifting in case their pet's a shedder.

Leather Railway Rucksack

Long walks with that mop of fur? Not a problem. There's plenty of space to carry your gadget's, gizmo's, who's-it's and what's-its gallore with room to spare for the pup's water and obligatory ball. A rucksack is ideal for any of your pet owning friends who like to take long walks on the beach, over the river and through the woods, or trek those pesky 40 blocks that separate you and the dawg from spending necessary weekend QT in Central Park.

Hunter 'Sacha' Boots

Dogs need to go out even when the weather isn't its best. These boots would be great to slosh through all the water, muck, and/or snow out there. Nothing beats a Hunter Boot for braving that nasty inclement weather. Plus those bright laces will surely catch the eye of over yonder handsome stranger.

Nikita Trapper

Baby, it's cold outside. And since you're not as lucky as your canine friend to have a built in full body coat, any added fuzzy helps. Block Headwear is a small company that started in 2000 and is still based out of New York. This is an item that'll be sure to kick off more conversations with your other chilly but fashionable dog walking neighbors.

Toys & Treats

Dogs like toys and treats. This is true. These two happen to be eco-friendly and healthy, made from non toxic dyes and naturally shed deer antler. After you and puppydoodlesmushyface are done frolicking why not give them something that ensures there will still be nature to enjoy and much more time to explore it together.

Woolrich Blanket

It's cozy up time. Pour that wine, get out that book, light that candle, and curl into an adorable little ball on the couch. There might be nothing better than the wind down time after a day well spent with the tail-wagger taking in the great outdoors. Woolrich is a company that has been making quality products for many many years, so you can be sure that your blanket will last you a long beyond the puppy stage.

Sheepskin Rug

Treat yodog in the ultimate luxury item. While you're lounging on the couch your ever constant companion will be snoozing on a Sheepskin Rug near by. Their very own place to lay their tired weary furry heads at the end of a long day spent wagging, slurping, running, sniffing, jumping, and being your very best most loyal friend.

Hope you all enjoyed the gift guide. Now go, buy buy!

mid-week music moment...

2011-12-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas

That's right, it's holiday take over time for the MWMM!

This has always been one of my favorite Christmas songs, and it's one that brings back pleasant but also nearly crippling feelings of nostalgia every time I hear it. (We all have those, right?) Instantly I'm transported to the kitchen of my grandparents house on Christmas Eve night, after dinner, fire going, dancing and singing with my mom, my aunts and my grandpa, while my dad and uncles smoke cigars on the porch. Just listening to it I can smell the rich, spicy smoke mixing with the leftover smells of dinner and evergreen pine needles...

Even though it's a little ways away yet, I can't wait to be home again.

P.S. - Can we all just have a major swoon for vintage Elvis for a second? Good lord.

party for good...

2011-12-05T16:21:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone!

I am so excited to announce that I'm hosting a party over the holidays to raise money for a really wonderful charity called goods for good. If you're going to be in NYC on December, 20th, I would love for you to attend. (And even if you're not, you can still donate money through the ticketing site.)

Here's the invite (click on the image to see the event site):

Some of my darling and amazing fellow bloggers like Court & Hudson, In Pursuit of Style, Stripes & Sequins, Morgan & Lua, Wit & Whimsy and more have graciously helped me organize, promote, plan and execute this party - and I owe them the world! We would all love for you to join us at Chelsea Manor and raise some money (and have a few cocktails) for this amazing cause.

#partyforgood

tgif...

2011-12-02T11:34:00.001-05:00

Kick your feet up - the weekend's almost here!

xoxo

{guest gift guide} for the beauty buff...

2011-12-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

This gift guide comes from my lovely Southern roommate, Jessica. Jessica is a bonafied beauty and skin care expert, with hair like the girl from the shampoo commercials. I asked Jess to round up some fabulous presents for the girl in your life who has a thing for products. She went above and beyond and has below assembled an amazing array of gifts that will fit any budget - and are guaranteed to bring out the pretty in the beauty buff on your list.

Jess' Guide

1.Kai Body Buffer $40 - Kai is one of those timeless scents that just about everyone loves and luckily, everyone can wear. For these reasons, this line has a massive celebrity/cult following. The most unique product they have is their completely indulgent Kai infused sponges that cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the skin when activated by water. There are about 30 exhilarating uses in each one.

2.Birchbox ($10/month, $30 for 3 months, $60 for 6 months, and $110 for 12 months) - Think “Beauty of the Month Club”. Need I say more? Just in case I do, this exceptional service lets you gift monthly packages of 4-5 hand picked, deluxe, beauty product samples. Not only do I love when I come home to this little surprise on my doorstep, but I have found some of my favorite new products through this monthly delight!

3. Feeling Smitten Cupcakes $10.50 - Even though these look good enough to eat with flavors like Red Velvet, Ginger Peach, and Cranberry Fizz: WARNING: Do not ingest! Being a self-proclaimed cupcake connoisseur and bath fanatic, I fell in love with these calorie-free cupcake bath bombs. When dropped in the tub they fizz with essential oils and Dead Sea salt that make your skin feel silky smooth. (Use the discount code "OPRAH" to get them for $8.)

4. St. Tropez Radiant Tan Set $40 - As a southerner, I appreciate a nice tan, and this tan-in-a-bottle is my answer to always wearing SPF 30 and never having set foot in a tanning bed during the winter. I especially like the gradual face tanner, because it helps cut down the reflection of my paleness in pictures. It's a great gift for everybody, because it’s easy-to-apply, streak-free, color-controlled, and doesn't have that bad tanner smell!

5. Cellure Stem Cell Skin Care System Set $599 - This is my creme de la creme. Yes, I work for them, no point in hiding that because it’s usually the first thing that comes out of my mouth when I meet someone new. Since I believe that all of mankind aged 25+ needs to start using this line, I will just describe it in one sentence: The first skin care line in the US to utilize adult human stem cell technology that is proven to not only prevent aging, but also to turn back the clock with its patented ingredient, Lipotein. Pretty futuristic, right?

6.Ted Gibson Beautiful Hold Hair Spray $19.95 - I am not a big hair spray fan, mostly because my hair is pretty manageable, but I am completely addicted to Beautiful Hold. Developed by my favorite hair stylist to the stars, the formula is so light and natural that it allows you to layer the product depending on styling needs. It also smells so great that I have people stop and ask me what perfume I am wearing.

7. Bond No. 9 The scent of Peace Now and Forever Pocket Spray $95.00 - This holiday scent can be purchased year round in all sizes, but I am partial to the pocket-size that comes in its own white leatherette pouch. Great for travel and a couple fresh spritzes throughout the day. Notes: Grapefruit, black currant, lily of the valley, musk.

8. SpaCell Facial Sponge 3 pack $28 - I use these little flexible fusion, bonded honeycomb facial sponges when I travel to wash my face and body, because I have a slight aversion to hotel wash clothes. They easily remove make-up and exfoliate your skin to make it squeaky clean. There is a soft side for more sensitive skin and a harder side for tougher skin or your body. It’s naturally anti-fungal, antibacterial, allergen free, and dries extremely fast. Plus, they come in so many vibrant colors!

9. Nordstrom Brush Set $29 - A chic pebble-grained case holds a complete range of ten full-size brushes. The high-quality set is crafted with aluminum ferrule and wooden handles and both natural and synthetic fibers. Set includes: a blush brush, contour brush, large eyeshadow brush, powder brush and smudger brush (goat hair), a concealer brush, eyeliner brush and lip brush (taklon fiber), a pony-hair round eyeliner brush and a nylon-fiber lash and brow groomer. Just a great deal all around!

10. A Consumer’s Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients, 7th Edition by Ruth Winter $15.98 - Everything you need to know about the safety and efficacy of cosmetics and cosmeceuticals. Is it a cosmetic? A drug? A nutrient? Take this non-biased book with you to every beauty counter to make sure you are purchasing products that are good for your skin. Education is key to treating your skin and you never know if that $200 anti-aging cream might have something in it that your skin won’t like.

mid-week music moment...

2011-11-30T13:49:00.001-05:00

Florence + The Machine covering Drake's "Take Care."

I absolutely love this - big shout out to Rishi for sharing it via Twitter!

Enjoy and/or let me know your thoughts.

Do you prefer the origina l? I like both...

getting my Ferris Bueller on?

2011-11-30T12:48:00.001-05:00

I popped into the Penfield sample sale a couple weeks ago in hopes of finding an amazing winter jacket. Alas I didn't find just right one, but instead picked up this blue cable knit wool sweater. It's a little big and insanely warm, aka perfect for winter.

Then today, I was browsing Nerd Boyfriend, and saw this picture of Matthew Broderick. I mean, no, they aren't exactly the same, but similar enough, right?

I suppose if I'm not getting my Sloane Petterson on, then Ferris will have to do.

[Images via Nerd Boyfriend & Penfield, obviously.]

i'm super hip now...

2011-11-30T12:15:00.001-05:00

...For two reasons:

1. I finally have a smart phone! (An iPhone 4s, no less!)

2. I'm finally on Instagram! (follow me: shutupilovethat)

I'm pretty sure my life will never be the same.

{guest gift guide} for the guys...

2011-11-30T10:30:00.000-05:00

Today's gift guide was hand-picked by one of my great New York City guy friends and building-next-door neighbors, Bret. he has excellent taste and is one of the most well-dressed humans I know. I asked Bret to round up some gift ideas based on what he would like to see under the tree this year, and his selections are cool, classic, and pretty much guaranteed to please any guy you might be shopping for this season.

So here you have it, 7 great gifts from a guy's perspective:

Bret's Guide

Bourbon

Why: Whiskey is pretty widely understood to be a great man-gift. Many people opt for a nice bottle of scotch, but I’ve come to prefer bourbon because it’s smoother than scotch, and it’s made in America. There are two great things about it’s domestic production, the fact that it isn’t imported means taxes are lower and it’s easier to obtain, keeping prices much lower, and by drinking it you support American business. It’s a win win from my perspective (and yours). Two great bourbons are Fighting cock, which is very deep in color, and goes as well on ice as it does in a hot cider. It can and should be used in both. Elijah Craig 18 year is a very well crafted sipping bourbon, and is as good as any scotch out there.

My Picks: Fighting cock and Elija Craig

Fair Isle Sweater

Why: Shawl collared sweaters have been getting a lot of love lately, so it might be time for opt for something different. A great way to step up a sweater game is with a fair isle, which can be worn all winter, and is still great when you need a sweater in the spring.

My Picks: J.Crew and Union Made Goods

Pocket Knife

Why: Another quintessentially manly thing. I firmly believe that everyone should carry a utility knife, because once you have one you’ll find a hundred uses for it. I like the one below because of the wooden handle, and the 3 blades. It isn’t too fancy or high tech, just a simple, effective tool

My Pick: The Stockman Knife From Buck

Tie

Why: The tie is an ever present staple for dad, but it can work well for any man in the workforce. I like this black knit tie because it’s never out of place, adds variety to the traditional silk ties, and is useful for any formal holiday functions in lieu of a bowtie.

My Pick: J Press

Pocket Square

Why: Pocket squares always seemed a little on the dandy side, but a nice cotton one like this can also double as a hankerchief. It’s way better than that wad of napkins guys usually have in their backpocket, and will save a lot of washing machine induced frustration. When it isn’t being used for utility, the selvedge edge looks perfect peeking out of a breast pocket of a blazer.

My Pick: Union Made Goods

Wallet

Like the 1980s, the days of huge wallets with tons of credit cards are over. People are tightening their finances, so it’s time to get austere with how much stuff we carry. A simple wallet or card holder gives you enough space for your driver’s license, a credit card or two and some cash. Plus, you can store it in your front pocket, so you aren’t stitting on it all day. I have the one from Property Of… one and I love the elastic closure.

My Picks: Makr Carry Goods and Property Of... Chuck Cardholder

Chukka

Why: The all weather boot. It can be casual and formal, and is very comfortable. These look great after battling winter’s abuse, or keep them clean and use them as an alternative to dress shoes at work. Even if you don’t keep them clean you can wear them at work. They have the power to become the go to footwear over boat shoes, which I think we all support.

My Picks: Frye Oliver Chukka and Clarks Desert Boot

a note on this year's holiday posting...

2011-11-29T11:08:00.001-05:00

Hi friends! I suppose the holiday season is officially in full swing now, even though we haven't yet reached December! I'll admit, I'm a fan girl just like everyone else. I love the lights, the music, the parties, the glitter... It still enchants me - especially in New York. The department store windows are mind-blowing and the seasonal ice rinks are terrifying but such a mark of the season.

Gift guides are another seasonal "favorite thing" of mine. This year, instead of posting my interpretation of what certain types of people might like to get this year, I asked them to take matters into their own hands.

Starting tomorrow, I'll be posting gift guides that were written and created by some of my most favorite people, and based on (perhaps) what they might like to receive this year. So far, I've been blown away by their detail, thoughtfulness and downright awesome taste.

I can't wait to share them with you!

I'll post my own guide of course, because Santa loves the internets, and how else will he know exactly what to get me?

[image via here]

mid-week music moment...

2011-11-23T09:30:00.000-05:00

Did you really think I wouldn't go there (again) this year?

Please.

"Turkey with the girls and turkey with the boys - my favorite kind of pants are corduroys."

Happy Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

(And if you're reading this abroad, well, happy Wednesday!)

28 things I'm thankful for this year...

2011-11-21T21:13:00.001-05:00

My health
Bourbon
Ryan Gosling

Avocados

Hazelnut iced coffee from Grounded

Days when my life sort of feels like a Woody Allen movie

Days when my life sort of feels like an episode of Friends

Trader Joe's

My small, crazy & amazing family

Sarge & Zoe

This video (and that day).

Cabernet Sauvignon

The well-dressed men of New York City

The sort-of well dressed men of Seattle

My mom's words of wisdom

My dad's cooking

J. Crew catlogs

Tassel loafers, velvet smoking slippers, ballet flats & riding boots

Frank Sinatra

Sun Valley
Pumpkin Pie

My roommates

Friends with blogs who get what it's like to be a friend with a blog

Streaming Netflix

Central Park

Hot Toddies

Faux fur

Everyone who reads this blog - you're amazing

What are you thankful for this year?

tgif...

2011-11-18T15:59:00.001-05:00

Get fancy & get yourself a drink.

We all deserve it.

Happy Weekend!

[images via this tumblr.]

{latest cravings} lets go glamping...

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

glamping

So, I'm pretty fascinated by the concept of 'glamping,' which is basically fancy, glamorous camping. It's partly because the word is so funny, and partly because rustic chic is one of my favorite themes to adopt when it comes to winter dressing. I know, I know, it sounds so cliche, and kind of tool-ish, but seriously - if you've ever been to Sun Valley you know - this is a real thing. Out West we were dressing this way long before Pendleton became trendy.

Anyway, I want all these things, and when I started arranging them on Polyvore, I realized they reminded me of what a fashion-forward girl would wear, were she forced to go camping with her attractive-and-woodsy boyfriend. Not unlike this shoot from GQ with Miles Fisher (except more clothed, I suppose). And yes, in this scenario that means Lulu Frost jewels, a scarf the size of a blanket, velvet slippers and a chic leopard iPhone case.

I felt particularly inspired to seek out some over-the-knee knit socks after seeing Atlantic-Pacific's post from Tahoe.

More or less, I just want to layer on as much flannel, tweed, faux fur, cable knits and down as I possibly can, then top it off with an Indiana Jones hat and some brown riding boots. Is that so much to ask, really?

[As always, click that little hyperlink below the image to shop my Polyvore set.]

uptown girl x glee

2011-11-17T09:30:00.000-05:00

Alright, so I was such a die-hard Glee fan last season, but they've sort of lost me this time around. The songs aren't as strong, they don't fit the plot that well, and there's just a serious lack of Warblers. I caught last week's episode though, and was thoroughly giddy to see those blazer-clad boys do a really jazzy rendition of one of my all-time favorite songs, Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl."

It's easy, it's cheesy, and it's on repeat in my headphones today at the office. Hopefully no one will notice when I try to hit the high notes into my Bic pen microphone...

hey New York City readers...

2011-11-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

I just got this email from a reader, and thought I should open it up to all of you to see if you have any great suggestions to add to mine. I've only done so much, people. If you have a brilliant idea, won't you leave a comment?

Dear SUILTSOY,

I love your blog and your style! I am going to be in NYC with my lovely boyfriend for 24 hours only - on Saturday, November 26 and would love your recommendations on where to go & what to see! I've been to NYC plenty, but not in the last 6 months. It's my boyfriends first time. We don't want to spend a ton of money, but I'd like to fit in the absolute best of NY with out too much hokey touristy stuff. I have reservations at Beauty & Essex for dinner. . . not sure if it's a good spot, but I hope so! Please share your favorite shops, bars, restaurants and cultural stops that you would hit if you only had 24 hours in NYC. . .

Thank you,
Elizabeth from Cleveland, OH

Here are some things I'd do if I only had 24 hours...

1. Take a walk in Central Park. No matter how many times you visit it, it's different every time, beautiful every time, and always worth the stroll. While uptown, you might as well check out all the holiday window displays at the department stores too!
2. Grab a coffee from Grounded.
3. Lunch at Cafe Habana.
4. Brunch at Le Grainne then walk the High Line.
5. Pop over to Brooklyn on the L train and have a huge, delicious beer at Spritzenhaus 33 and walk it off in McCarren Park - and if it's nice out, ride back to Manhattan on the East River Ferry.
6. Consider hitting up the Brooklyn Flea (only open this late at Skylight One Hanson) for some fun trinkets, people watching and good food.
7. Eat in Chinatown (Banh Mi Saigon Vietnamese sandwiches, pho from New Tu Do on Bowery)
8. Check out the new C Wonder store on Spring Street.
9. Go to the Guggenheim & see the really wild art I saw last Friday. Alternatively, if you're feeling extra frugal, pay what you want to go to The Met, and head up to the roof for a cocktail.
10. After dinner at Beauty & Essex, treat yourself to a fancy cocktail just about anywhere that New York mag suggests - they are usually spot-on.

people magazine needs to get real...

2011-11-16T16:01:00.001-05:00

Bradley Cooper? Really?

RG for life.

Buzzfeed agrees here, here and here.

where i was on friday night...

2011-11-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

On friday night Morgan and I headed uptown to the Guggenheim Museum for a pretty special event. MGMT performed a 45-minute set of music inspired by an insane art installation by Maurizio Cattelan.

As MGMT played, lights changed colors and pulsated to the music all around the rotunda. It was stunning, trippy, crazy and rather amazing.

My cell phone pictures turned out terrible, and I can't really share them on the blog anyway, so may I direct you to the Flickr feed, which has plenty of photos of the installation and the event.

(The above photo is from said link.)

{borrowed instagrams} weekend snaps...

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Yours truely in McCarren Park

Soft pretzel and beers from Spriztenhaus

Fall-ness in Chelsea

I spent some quality time with Meghan and Morgan in Manhattan and Brooklyn this weekend, soaking up the glorious fall weather.

They have smart phones.

These are their photos.

NYC autumn from above...

2011-11-14T09:51:00.001-05:00

My friend Sammi showed me this photo on her phone over the weekend, taken from her office.

I mean, can you even handle how gorgeous that is?

I haven't been to Central Park in ages and now I'm just kicking myself.

Anyone for a walk this weekend?

{vintage dreams} amazing leopard coat....

2011-11-12T10:30:00.000-05:00

I just had to share this with you all.

My mom's cousin collects and sells vintage clothes, and he has this swing coat on a dress form in the living room.

It's leopard. Like, it's actually leopard.

(To be fair, it could be painted or dyed cow hide, but we don't think so.)

If it wasn't at least 50 years old I'd be totally offended.

At this point it's a relic, a masterpiece and better on display than shoved in a dark corner somewhere, no?

mid-week music moment...

2011-11-09T12:01:00.002-05:00

Death Cab For Cutie - Codes & Keys (Yeasayer Remix)

I have to admit, I like Yeasayer a whole lot more than I like Death Cab, which is why this song is pretty great. It's just what I need to get my Wednesday into gear, how about you?

[Song found via my fav, Hype Machine]

all i aspire to wear is...

2011-11-03T16:17:00.003-04:00

This, all the time.

Blazer, button down, belt & coffee. A menswear look that is so fantastically feminine I can't really get over it.

On that note, I'm off to catch my plane!

xoxo

from the twitter of @arisethcohen...

2011-11-03T09:30:00.000-04:00

"Style is about the right jewelry, the right know-how, the right neckline, and above all the right attitude."

- 80 Year Old Joyce

I just love this quote, and I couldn't resist sharing it here. I mean really, she says it all, doesn't she?

Ari Seth Cohen runs the amazing blog, Advanced Style, that features the unique character and fashions of the over-60 set. This is his Twitter.

(We have a great interview with him over on IFB, by the way.)