Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Here’s to a Delicious 2012

Image property of art.com
I have never been one for New Year’s resolutions.  Being from the Midwest, January first is inevitably cold, dreary, and bleak, just outside of the shortest day of the year, and frankly the worst time to dig up the motivation that real change needs in order to be realized.  Perhaps a throw-back to when I was facing a new school year, but I always thought September as being the natural time to resolve, to reinvent and to renew. 
But, 2012 came at the exact time I felt that some change was in order.  Not in the sense of the traditional, “eat more leafy greens, less cake” variety but to resolve to lead a more inspiring, more engaging 2012.  So that means doing things like taking some workshop courses at the University of Illinois and taking a long weekend to go away to a yoga retreat.
How about you?  Do you make New Year’s resolutions? 

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

J Brand Announces Sportswear Collection

Photo credit and story details:  WWD

Summer is not over, yet I am already looking forward to Spring 2012 when J. Brand launches their new 140 piece sportswear line.  As reported on WWD this morning, the collection includes leather jackets, tops, pants, and skirts.  Donald Oliver, new design director, is heading the operation.  “From day one, we wanted her [the customer] to be easygoing, uncomplicated, subtly sophisticated," said Oliver. "We wanted her to feel relevant, not trendy, not like she’s trying too hard, which is why I think the garments have an ease about them.”
I have always considered Vince to be my favorite band when it comes to timeless sportswear that always feels right.  However, the J., Brand launch will be challenging that come 2012, based on the preview looks and my fanatical obsession with their jeans.
What about you?  Are you a J Brand fan?

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Barbie Needs a Pool Boy

The closest I come to collecting anything is when I curate items to hang in my closet.  But these Barbie® dolls available today on Gilt made me smile.  The Palm Beach ones are my favorite.  Can't you just imagine them at an evening soiree with the gossip flying over gin gimlets? 

Monday, June 20, 2011

Salad Days of Summer


Last Summer, I decided to do myself a favor and have one go-to dish that I could whip up for all those barbeques and last minute backyard picnics that pop up once the weather turns warm.  That idea served me so well; I wanted to share the recipe with you.
Orzo Salad with Feta
Ingredients
One cup of orzo
Half pint of grape tomatoes, cut in half
Half of a seedless cucumber, peeled (I leave little ribbons of the skin on for added color) and rough chopped)
3-4 ounces crumbled feta (I use the Whole Foods brand, comes in a 6 ounce tub)
1 Tablespoon chopped parsley
2 Tablespoons chopped basil (if you love basil like me, you can add more)
1 and ½ teaspoons of  red wine vinegar (lemon juice also works really well, but increase it to 2 Tablespoons)
4 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 Tablespoons kalmata olives, rough chop, if desired.
(If you happen to have fresh mint on hand, a couple of  leaves very finely chopped adds a nice flavor element.  No need to make a purchase just for this)
Execution
Cook the orzo in well salted water according to package instructions.
While the orzo cooks, whisk the vinegar and oil in a bowl.  Taste and adjust as desired, add salt and pepper to taste.
Once the orzo is done, toss in the vinaigrette (the warm orzo will absorb the flavors perfectly) sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs, toss again.  Next add the vegetables and olives if using.  Lastly, add the feta and gently toss (you do not want to completely break up all the crumbles of feta, it’s nice to have some little bits running throughout and some bigger pieces).
Enjoy!  This is one of those dishes that really is fool proof.  Love feta?  Add more.  Do not have cucumber on hand?  Use the entire pint of tomatoes. 
Make it a meal
And fresh cooked shrimp or cubes of grilled chicken to make a one dish summer meal, perfect for packing up in a picnic basket.

Friday, April 1, 2011

On the Fringe


Anthropologie fringed basket bag, $238

When I first spotted Anthropologie’s fringed basket bag in a catalog, I was smitten.  It seemed like the perfect thing to wear with this designer I love.  But after looking at it online, now I can’t make up my mind.  And, since I am planning on getting these which I know I will live in it seems like, with the bag, it will just be overkill.  What do you think? 

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Adoration for Adore Home Magazine

Image property of Adore Home Magazine
Adore Home Magazine just released their April/May edition and it is full of inspiring rooms and great decorating tips.  This online publication comes to us from Australia and is my go-to source for new ideas when it comes to decorating. 

Everything they showcase looks refined but comfortable, unique but welcoming.  Scroll down to see some of my favorite looks from their new magazine.  Take a look for yourself and see how Adore does Spring.  See anything you like?







Image property of Adore Home Magazine


Image property of Adore Home Magazine







Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Ryann Rose Designs

Triple Wrap Light Aventurine Beaded Bracelet

With Spring ushering in such strong changes to fashion’s silhouettes, the time is perfect not only to refresh what’s hanging in your closet, but also to take a look at updating your jewelry box too.  Ryann Rose Designs is a new Etsy shop filled with the kind of pieces I want to wear right now.  The beaded bracelets will look perfect with wide leg jeans, chunky platforms and airy tops.  Or, pick up one of the statement rings.  These rings manage to be striking while still having that casual bohemian vibe so they work equally well for day or evening. 
In addition to the Etsy store, where prices range from $15 - $40, Ryann Rose Designs also takes custom orders.  I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my triple beaded bracelet in red bamboo coral.
What about you?  What is your favorite in her shop?


Disclosure: Delicious is related to the Ryann Rose designer by marriage, however this is not a sponsored post.
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