4.13

This weekend I’m looking forward to the weather taking a turn for the warmer so I can start swapping out my closets. This time of year is such a challenge to get dressed every day (calendar says spring, forecast still says winter) and I’m glad it’s almost over. I’ve been in such a rut, hating everything I own, that I’ve been pretty much resigned to wearing a sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers every day. Excited to reconnect with my girlier summer wardrobe.

Here’s what I’m into this week…

I know I always say it but the assortment at T.J. Maxx has been killing it this season and I’m so excited to share a few things I’ve been loving..

• a great pair of high waisted jeans from Current/Elliott

• my new favorite moisturizer and eye cream from Honest Beauty (seriously really good)

• a silk eye mask to upgrade my snoozing

• new tortoise sunnies from Karen Walker (also how fab are these?!)

• the perfect spring peasant top from Saylor

I watched Amy Schumer’s hilarious new Netflix special, Growing, and was relieved to find that I’m not the only one who sleeps with earplugs and an eye mask every. single. night.

I’ve long been a fan of H&M’s home goods (we have their linen bedding and linen curtains), but these waffled towels take the cake. They look lovely in our bathroom and they absorb tons of water and dry quickly . We love them more than the $80 linen towels we’ve been using. Also loving all of their stoneware dinnerware, vases and vessels. I’ve seen them in person and they are truly well made and beautiful.

I turned 35 a few weeks ago and got second hole piercings in my ears. I know it’s something most girls probably did in their teens but I’ve been wanting to do it for a few years now, mostly to have an excuse to buy more jewelry. I can’t wait to get my third so I can pick up this adorable set from Amarilo.

I’m on the hunt for a spring bag and I’m leaning towards a simple saddle bag like this one from Cuyana. Love the feminine hardware detail on the front. Also a great classic bag from Sezane.

A few of my favorite summer dresses from Mango last season are available on their outlet site for super cheap! Excited to pull this, this, and this out from storage.

The "It Bag"

The beaded bag is to Spring 2019 what the rattan bag was to Spring 2018. You can thank Susan Alexandra and her quirky vintage inspired bags for kicking off this trend last summer. Luckily for those of us who can’t afford the $200+ price tag for her not made for every day bags, everyone and their mother has their own version for the season. And guess what? Fantastic, vintage options can be found on Etsy. I’m loving this, this, and this.

1. Zara, 2. & Other Stories, 3. Mango, 4. Urban Outfitters

2.2

Never underestimate the power of a great coat/scarf combo to upgrade a weekend look. This longer length coat makes everything (including a sweatshirt and jeans) look chic. The plaid pattern adds to its casual chic feel. I got it on major clearance at Zara last year and since then it’s been a wardrobe workhorse. I’ve been scouting their sale offerings on the regular to find my update for this year and this oversized zebra print coat is the winner. And yep, only $39.99.

1.27

It’s Sunday morning and my apartment is clean, the laundry is done, and I have a quiche in the oven. Having a fridge full of food and meals at the ready make Monday not so bleak.

After wearing the same eyeshadow palette for the last two years, I decided to switch things up a bit. Most important to me are colors I can wear every day, formulas that last most of the day, and ease of application. After some research, I landed on NUDESTIX. These eyeshadow sticks are super easy to put apply, layer, and create a noticeable but still natural look for work or cocktails. I have Chocolate (I use as a liner), Fig (all over the lid), and Rustique (all over the lid).

There’s a fresh crop of one of my favorite USA made eyewear brands, Raen Optics, at Nordstrom Rack. Loving these, these, and these.

I’m looking to add more holes for earrings to my ears, which of course means I need more earrings. I’m into everything Mejuri does right now. Similar to Vrai & Oro (read that post here), they cut out the middle man and sell jewelry directly and pass savings on to the consumer. I have heart eyes for these, these, and this piercing-free ear cuff. I hope my Valentine is listening!

If scrunchies were the what’s-old-is-new-again accessory of 2018, the claw clip is 2019’s. I’ve seen them popping up all over the place. At the high end, I’m obsessed with the offerings from Valet, especially this marbled resin clip. On the lower end, J. Crew’s french made clips have rave reviews. I picked up this one for 25% off today.

While I’m no longer doing keto, I try to make low carb choices when possible. I’ve been looking for an easy swap for crackers and nuts, which sadly I am incapable of eating a single serving. Thanks to Thrive Market and their keto diet section, where I found these flax seed based crackers, and these snacking beans. Both pack less than one gram of net carbs per serving and lots of good fat and protein. Snack on!

Ok, I now really hate Mark Zuckerberg.

I recently discovered Thrift Books, the online destination for used books, and I’m already hooked. You can find tons of good, used titles for under $4 and shipping is free for orders over $10. I picked up The Bell Jar, The Alchemist, and Their Eyes Were Watching God.

We have less than a week left of Dry January and I can honestly say it’s been pretty easy for us. It’s made me think about why we drink (habit and boredom) and why we shouldn’t drink (health and well being, $$$). We’re planning on going back to drinking next week, but I’ll be doing it with a new set of eyes.

1.20

Western boots were the biggest footwear trend on and off the runway last fall. They add the perfect edge to an otherwise basic or feminine look. I dipped a toe into the trend with these boots in black and they are just perfect. A just high enough heel, clingy shaft, and a pointy toe make these the perfect update on a black bootie. I paid about $90 for mine and have to keep myself from wearing them every single day. Definitely picking up the below cream color way for $55 today from DSW.

You’re welcome!

1.18

Happy Friday! Am I the only one who was wishing for a huge snow storm?! There’s nothing like being snuggled up at home (or your local bar!) watching the snow fall. Hopefully we’ll get one biggie before spring.

We got our first box from Misfit Market last night and I’m pumped. The company rescues “ugly” organic produce that is headed to the landfill and sends it to weekly or biweekly subscribers for a deeply discounted price. My box was $24 (with shipping) and included 4 clementines, 2 avocados, a bunch of kale and broccoli, a butternut squash, beets, turnips, carrots, and potatoes. All organic and all supporting a forward thinking company. Highly recommend.

Speaking of veggies, I came across this list of recipes at Bon Appetit and I want to make ALL OF THEM. Also, this salad.

The massive J. Crew sale seems to never end. I picked up this bikini for an upcoming Easter trip to Florida, this adorable hat, and keeping my eyes on this golden hued sweater.

This time of year I’m always looking for new workout gear to keep me excited about hitting the barre. TJ Maxx is my go-to for designer brands (this $98 sports bra) on the cheap. Also got this and this.

Like the rest of the world, we were inspired last weekend by Tidying Up on Netflix and did a major clean out and reorganization of our drawers. Next weekend we’re going to attack some overflowing closets. We picked up some pretty storage baskets for the linen closet. I can’t wait!

I’ll be joining the Women’s Unity Rally in the city tomorrow. Gloria Steinem is going to be there! You can register and get info about the rally here.

1.1

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a fun, safe New Year’s Eve. After what feels like weeks of parties, visitors, traveling and celebrating, we opted to stay in this year. We made nachos, drank wine, and watched a few hours of the Twilight Zone. I was falling asleep on the couch from 7 pm on, so I feel lucky to have made it up to 10:30. And man does it feel good to feel good this morning!

I can totally relate to this article in The Cut. I love to give gifts, but getting gifts gives me anxiety and guilt as I usually don’t get what I want and often get what I don’t want. Unless I pick it out, I would rather not get anything at all.

All of my big wool scarves are looking a little worse for wear so I’m on the hunt for a new one. This, this and this are some good options.

Zara sale is on but they haven’t done second markdowns yet so I’m holding off for now. I’m keeping my eyes on this dress, this top, and this coat.

Mango’s outerwear this year was so good. Hoping this mohair blend coat and this faux fur coat have deeper markdowns.

As the aforementioned celebrating has taken a toll on my exercise and eating routine, hubby and I have decided to do a dry January. I actually don’t enjoy drinking that much, so I’m looking forward to the forced break.

Another goal this year is to explore creativity outside of my day job. Course Horse always has classes that pique my interest, like candle making, botanical drawing, and floral design.

Looking forward to the New York Times/PBS book club in 2019. The first pick is ‘Heart’ by Sandeep Jauhar.

xo

11.29

If you don’t know already, you should know that I’m a denim freak. I don’t wear leggings as pants, I wear jeans. High-waisted jeans, cropped jeans, flared jeans, wide leg jeans.. just jeans. So when I see some of my favorite fits from Levi’s on major sale for $19.99 at T.J.Maxx, you know I’m scooping them all up. I’ll make room in my closet somehow..

1. Crop Wedgie Jeans, 2. Crop Flare Jeans, 3. Crop 501 Jeans

Cyber Monday

Yes, I know the hour is late but it is so not too late to score some major deals for yourself and loved ones.

This CBD tea will be making its way into everyone on my list’s Christmas stocking. I swear by this tea when I’m having a tough time falling asleep and staying that way. All flavors are 40% off with free shipping today.

My favorite perfume is 30% off on a lot of sites, but this is the only place it’s still in stock. Is it crazy to be thinking about buying a second bottle??

All products at Dermstore are up to 30% off with free shipping. I’m stocking up on my favorite night cream, fancy silk scrunchies, and the best dry shampoo.

Free shipping at T.J. Maxx today! I picked up this gorgeous wool throw for someone special.

Everything at Madewell is 25% off, even sale! I basically swear by this completely waterproof tote bag, the perfect gift for the city dweller in your life. It’s lightweight, wears well, and still manages to look chic while carting around your lunch and a change of shoes.

The beautiful storage containers I’ve been lusting after are on Saks Off 5th for a fraction of the price. The site is also offering free shipping (which they NEVER do) so you know these babies are coming home with me. Also loving these perfect suede booties.

I love giving and getting beautiful wall calendars from Cavallini Papers & Co. I’m eyeing this one for 2019.

Card games have had a resurgence in my family over the last few years. I can’t wait to pass it on with some fun TV and movie themed playing cards like these, these, and these.

**photo credit: unknown

11.10

WHEW! This week was a doozy. Between the election, the post-election drama and a busy week at work, I couldn’t wait to get my butt to my favorite Mexican place and down a couple of margaritas. Who’s with me?!

The holidays are only 6 weeks away (eek!) and I haven’t bought a single gift. I like to shop early and spread the financial damage over multiple weeks, so it’s time to get my rear in gear starting with the Veteran’s Day sales this weekend.

Every day fine jewelry is always a good idea for close friends and family, and these 14k gold huggie earrings and these tiny hoops fit the bill.

For hostess gifts and even just to decorate wrapped gifts, I love rustic-inspired ornaments. Zara home always does the Nordic vibe just right. I’m loving these, these, and these.

T.J. Maxx is my go-to for seasonal candles. I’m a evergreen scent kind of girl, so I’ll be stocking up on these and these for gifts and to keep our apartment in the holiday spirit.

I love to give (and get) luxe feeling sweaters. This one from H&M is a gorgeous color and the fuzzy texture is just right for the holidays. Also loving this, this, and this.

Having a hard time shopping for the man in your life? I’ve given this $50 lap blanket from PEI based Macausland’s Woolen Mills to my dad, father-in-law, husband and stepdad over the last 10 years. You have to order from a sweet shop minder on the phone who walks over to the shop with you on the phone to see if they have the color and size you want in stock. Shipping is fast and reasonable.

In my desire to rid myself of as much plastic as possible, I came across these collapsable straws by FinalStraw. They’re available this month and would be a great gift for an eco-minded friend.

Love this collaboration over at & Other Stories with L.A. based The Deep End Club. My favorite? The “Give a Damn” tee. Because I do.

10.20

There’s a chill in the air and I couldn’t be happier. October is by far my favorite time of year. The holidays are on the horizon, chili is on the stove, and all the new fall goodies are slowly making their way to my closet. Life is good.

Here’s what I’m into this week..

Glossier has new shades of my favorite make up secret, Cloud Paint. Picking up the warm rose shade and my 5th reorder of can’t live without it Boy Brow.

This low-carb creamy cauliflower soup (I left out the peas!) is officially on my weekly rotation. Perfect with a side of roasted veggies. I recently discovered delicata squash and I’m hooked.

Eyeing this leopard print sweater. Hopefully it stays in stock through sale season..

Looking forward to seeing Beautiful Boy in the coming weeks. I’m a sucker for a good drama (and Timothee Chalamet!).

TJ Maxx has some great outerwear that runs the gamut from cold weather, menswear, and biker.

Mango is having a Friends & Family sale- 20% off the entire site. Loving this plaid coat, this Ganni-inspired sweater, and this snake print blouse.

Need Supply is also offering 20% off for F&F through tomorrow. This includes my favorite perfume, another great animal print skirt, and the dad sneakers I’ve been eyeing.

It’s been an embarrassing amount of time since I was last at the Met, but two new exhibits will get me there asap: a rare Armenian art show (my grandmother was Armenian) and a Dutch masters exhibit.

10.6

Hoping everyone is ok today. It’s been an emotionally draining couple of weeks, and we could all use a hug.

Here’s what I’m into this week..

Can’t wait to try these reusable beeswax food wraps. I haven’t used plastic wrap in over a year, but sometimes I miss the ease of being able to wrap up a hunk of cheese or veggie and throw it in the fridge. In three sizes, these fit the bill! They’ll also make great Christmas gifts.

I know I say it every year, but H&M has some really great pieces that I’m dying to scoop up right now. I tried this faux fur coat on in person and it’s gorgeous. This romantic ruffled top and this sweater in the most perfect golden color are also on my list.

Ok I finally found the most perfect (for me) snakeskin booties. I returned the ones from a few posts ago (sometimes cheap price = cheap shoes), and have kept searching. These are a winner. The pointed toe is so flattering and universal and the shaft is high-but-not-too-high. And now 30% off at Macys until Monday!

My workout leggings have been gradually getting higher and higher waisted and I was having a tough time finding cute tops to go with them. This top is the perfect length, soft (and antimicrobial!) and comes in colors you actually want to wear. It’s Lulu for those of us who don’t want to wear Lulu. Also comes in these colors on sale!

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I’ve been having some success with a low carb diet. Unfortunately, I’m now having some problems with jeans that are too big in the waist. Short of going back to carbs, I need to find a good belt! This one could be a winner as it comes in a variety of sizes- perfect for slightly too big high waisted jeans.

My mom recommended (and bought!) this book for me when she was here last week. I’m 40 pages in and I already love it! It’s about a Russian aristocrat who, after the Bolshevik revolution, is confined to a hotel as a prison sentence.

I recently devoured a new podcast, Dr. Death. A disturbing look at how protected doctors are, even when they intentionally injure their patients.

The Look

My love for all things & Other Stories is no secret, but for fall especially, they're the best. Great sweaters and the perfect iteration of the "it" item of the season are what I look to them for the most. I wrote about this leopard skirt last week, and below is exactly how I want to wear it as the weather slowly cools down. Just add tights for colder nights or a dad sneaker for a more casual weekend look. 

1. faux fur coat- H&M (also love this faux sherpa), 2. striped sweater- & Other Stories, 3. madonna necklace- Maria Pascual, 4. wool beret- Anthropologie, 5. harness bag- Frye, 6. patent booties- Matisse, 7. midi skirt- & Other Stories

Happy Holiday Weekend

The only Mondays I tend to like are the ones where I don't have to go into the office. As a matter of fact, thanks to Labor Day, the Jewish holidays, and a vacation coming up in two weeks, I won't be working a Monday until the 24th! Life is good.                                                                            This weekend we've been at multiple birthday parties, including my dad's 70th (!!!) so we're looking forward to some homebody time today. 

I've been searching high and low for the perfect snakeskin bootie for fall and I think I finally found one. I was pretty close to picking up this one but $150 is a bit high for me. Luckily I found these for about $100 less! 

Another hot item for fall is anything leopard, but especially a midi skirt or slip dress, all thanks to this lovely from French brand Realisation Par. I found mine at my fave & Other Stories. Can't wait to pair it with a tee for now and a chunky sweater and boots for later. 

I'm also on the hunt for coats, coats, coats. I got rid of my favorite leopard coat and winter coat last year, so I've got some major holes to fill. Loving this plaid coat ($55 today!), this faux fur coat, and will probably be searching for the perfect puffer until the New Year. 

I've been following a vegetarian Keto diet pretty consistently for the last month and it's definitely helped with bloating and looking more toned. This Q/A with Will Cole on Goop espousing it's benefits sealed the deal for me. I think I will always strive to eat this way. I can't wait to check out his book, Ketotarian. This site has also been a great source for recipes. 

How pretty are these nesting bowls? Already on my Christmas list! Along with basically anything from Food52. 

Have you listened to Slow Burn yet? Season one is all about Watergate and how that affected the country. Season 2 is about the impeachment of Bill Clinton. Super interesting and super important history to brush up on right now. 

Happy Weekend!

I was hoping to have a beach day this weekend but it looks like the weather won't be cooperating. Instead we'll be heading to the Frick Collection (hubby's never been!) and I can't wait to revisit all of my favorite Rembrandt and Vermeer paintings. 

Speaking of the beach, we're going on a late summer vacation to Hilton Head Island in September, so I'm still buying allthebathingsuits. J. Crew has a ton on super sale, I picked up this one, this one, and waiting for my size to be restocked in this one. They also have some really fun coverups. 

The Mango sale also continues and I'm looking for a few more dresses to get me through the rest of this insane east coast humidity. How are people wearing jeans out there?! This and this are in my cart. 

H&M is having 25% off of already reduced sale items today and I picked up this and this for $28 total. Also loving this slip dress. 

After coming back from our mini vacation the other week, I felt bloated, tired, and a little chubby. We drank, we ate pizza, we ate chips, we ate pasta.. something had to give! So many people at my office have been raving about Keto I knew I had to do my own version. So after 10 days of eating low carb, I feel lighter and leaner. I used this site for some great starter recipes. 

Tampons have been grossing me out for years, and I couldn't believe there wasn't a better option out there. It turns out, THERE IS! After reading this post from my fave blog, I immediately ordered the Lena cup. I happened to be in the middle of my cycle and was able to put it to the test as soon as I received it. I am a changed woman! 

Weekend Faves

Being outside last night was such a treat.  I know some parts of the country are still suffering from a heat wave but the east coast will be having beautiful, low humidity weather all weekend and I'm super excited about it. I for one don't wear cute stuff during steaming temps. Who wants to sweat through a dress you have to dry clean? So today I'm actually going to make an effort and can't wait to whip out some new purchases from my Europe trip. 

These shoes are such a major score and will get a ton of wear. Is getting 3 colors excessive? Also how cute are these? 

Im on the hunt for new, easy summer recipes (that aren't potato salad!) and all of these look amazing.  

The Now Read This pick for July is Pachinko, a historical fiction novel about Koreans who migrate to Japan. I truly enjoy hearing other peoples points of view and I'm sure the timing on this pick is no coincidence. 

This time of year I'm always itching to change up things at our apartment. I recently picked up this print, these linen pillowcases, and thinking about adding these sconces next to our bed. 

Madewell is having 30% off all sale this weekend and I got these fun bracelets, a cute hat for when a sun hat is too much, and this sleep shirt. 

Speaking of sale, the dress I've been drooling over and another color of my favorite sweater are on sale at H&M. 

How adorable are these printed mesh bags? Running over to the farmers market never looked better!

Are you watching the World Cup? We've been watching at home and at our local bar. Don't you just love the drama? 

Happy Weekend!

After a week of traveling to London, Milan, and Barcelona for work, I'm back! So happy to be home in NY just in time for the weekend. I got about 13 hours of sleep last night so I'm ready to play a little catch up today. 

While it can certainly be nice to travel for a few days and break up the routine, there's nothing like being away to make you appreciate your life a little more. I can't wait to clean our apartment, take a couple of classes, and make a few meals. And of course get in some much needed couch time with my hubby and fur babies. 

If you haven't already read Tana French's Dublin Murder Squad series, I highly recommend you do. But for those of us who have read all 6 she has a new book coming out in October. 

But in books to read right now, I'm picking up the latest PBS book club book Less, David Sedaris' new book Calypso, and this Johnny Cash bio. 

The $19.99 Levi's I picked up from T.J. Maxx the other week are now available in black. As a denim freak, you know I'm not hesitating to snatch these up! 

I picked up a few great pieces for myself while in Europe this week, but that won't stop me from hitting all the summer sales this week. 

The long-awaited Zara summer sale is here and I've been adding stuff to my cart left and right. I will probably wait until the discounts get a little deeper (another week or so) but here is what I'll be buying if they're still available: 

This cotton midi dress, this strappy dress, this retro embroidered shirt, this breezy linen off the shoulder top, and what's a Zara sale without something ruffled embroidered and white? 

Mango is no stranger to a great summer sale and I'm loving this go-with-everything skirt, this striped slip dress, and this shirt dress. 

Thinking about this bag as a transitional summer to fall bag. Love its nod to the Chloe Hudson bag. 

Friday Faves

What are you guys up to this weekend? We're home with no plans and Saturday looks like it's going to be beautiful! Planning on packing up a picnic and heading to Brooklyn Bridge Park for some sun and 500 rummy. Also in my bag? This meadow mat in case the ground is wet, my favorite sunscreen, and this book. 

A public pool will be opening a few blocks away from us in 2020! 

This sandwich just looks like summer. 

Updating aforementioned card games with these fun rainbow playing cards. 

Gap has been surprising me this season with their wearable, easy dresses. Recently picked up this and this and I know they'll get a ton of play this summer. This midi dress and this denim dress are  next!

My favorite Steven Alan bag is on sale in white. 

I love a wide leg crop jean for summer. They're a great alternative to shorts and dresses. I'm looking to expand my collection with some non denim versions.  These, these, and these look like they fit the bill. 

How beautiful are the pajamas at Zara Home? I'm especially loving this linen robe. 

I'm flying to London, Barcelona, and Milan next month and I'm planning on packing my own food for the flights. This article has some great ideas like a cheese plate, freezing grapes, and reheating pasta with hot water from the beverage cart. 

Friday Faves

We took off a few extra days from work last week to enjoy the perfect weather down at the Jersey shore, Spring Lake to be exact. We sat by the pool, had cocktails way too early in the day, and ate a lot of yummy seafood. But somehow the four day weekend still wasn't enough. I hope everyone on the east coast soaked up the sunshine while it lasted! 

Here's what I'm into this week..

I picked up these Levi's at Tjmaxx last week and they're a perfect fit. Here they are at Free People for $118 (!!!).  For $19.99 they're definitely worth a try! 

I love me a good HBO drama and I can't wait to watch Succession on Sunday night. The trailer has got me thinking this is going to be my new fave. 

I got these slides in peach suede last summer and I wore them constantly. In black they're just a no-brainer that I know I'll wear again and again. 

I would do a lot of things to get rid of a hangover but I probably won't try this. 

I'm a little late to the party but after multiple recommendations I went ahead and ordered a slew of products from The Ordinary. The idea for the brand sprang from the founder's knowledge of the chemicals and compounds in luxury skincare and how inexpensive they actually are. He stripped away advertising and fancy packaging and replaced them with affordable (almost everything is under $14) serums, moisturizers, and retinoids. I'll let you know what I think! 

Eyeing this pretty eyelet dress, these leggings, and these femme mules from J. Crew's latest sale offerings. 

Making a serious effort this year to give up plastic utensils and straws. Thrilled to hear that bars, restaurants, and even airlines are getting on board. 

Warm(er) Weather

After what felt like a week of rain, the weather broke. Today was hands-down my favorite kind of weather. Warm, not too hot to wear my favorite pair of jeans, but warm enough to wear sandals and a linen top. And of course, the Steven Alan bag I will likely have on repeat for the rest of the summer.