What's Your Sign?
I recently came across Minted, an online marketplace that sells incredible work from individual artists. This site is a great resource if you are looking to update your abode with some new artwork or simply looking for a unique gift idea. I love this watercolor astrology print by Annie Clark. The flash of gold adds just the right amount of spark against the diaphanous seafoam green background.
The Simple Sling
Building Block, a design studio based in Los Angeles, just released its iPhone 6 cross body sling. I love the elegant and nondescript aesthetic — ideal for holding everyday basics when you don't feel like lugging around a heavy bag.
All Wrapped Up
I'm the type of person who enjoys wrapping gifts just as much as opening them. I decided to make my own gift wrap this year and all it took was a few rolls of kraft paper and acrylic paint. Such a fun and simple holiday project!
Directions: Roll out craft paper on a flat surface Splatter various paint colors on the paper (channel your inner Jackson Pollock!) Dry overnight
*After you finish wrapping the gift, complete the look with twine and a few sprigs of greenery for a modern-rustic touch!
In a Perfect World
Moda Operandi's sale is filled with so many pretty pieces. In a perfect world, I would pick these all up in a heartbeat. Until that time, I'll be daydreaming of pink dresses, cutout sweatshirts, gorgeous orthopedic shoes and weirdly-awesome tops . . .
Water-Proof
A big storm is heading our way! If you're going to get wet, you might as well make a splash in these Hunter Interstellar Boots. So cool, you'll want to wear them year round — rain or shine.
The Next Level of Personalized Music
Here's something that's going to make you move and groove: the Aether Cone wi-fi speaker ($399). Dubbed the "thinking music player," the beautifully designed Aether Cone Speaker uses a complex algorithm to personalize your playlists as you listen. The system currently streams music from Rdio which has a library of over 30 million songs. The Aether Cone Speaker takes voice commands and can airplay your music from existing streams (like Spotify). I am waiting for Aether to partner up with multiple streaming services before I invest in this product, but if you're open to listening to something new, this is it!
If You're Thirsty, It's Too Late!
No moisturizer can fix your skin like water can.
Drinking 3 liters of water throughout the day (the recommended amount) has always been a battle for me and I'm finally starting to realize the importance of staying hydrated. After reading several articles from everyday women about their "water transformation," I've renewed my vows to drink more water. Before and after photos are proof in itself — disappearing wrinkles, diminishing dark circles and just an overall healthier look. Staying hydrated helps you look and feel better. Common problems like headaches, migraines and lack of energy can be attributed to dehydration. Instead of taking drugs to combat these affects, just drink more water!
Staying hydrated has given me a massive boost in energy level. My 2:30 pm fatigue has pretty much disappeared. I haven't experienced any headaches, helping me stay more focused and efficient. I learned that it's better to drink water throughout the day and not just binge on a 3 liter water bender. (My sister was laughing at my protruding water belly. Not a good look!)
In the words of the great, Jerry Seinfeld, "If you're thirsty, it's too late"! So Drink UP!
Weather the Storm
This is the most rain we've seen in the bay area in years! I'm one of those people who enjoy wet and gloomy weather, but one of my biggest pet peeves is a bad umbrella. You know, the ones that flip inside out with just the slightest wind gust. In comes the Senz umbrella to the rescue. Not only does it look good, but the asymmetrical shape gives it a unique aerodynamic ability - it can withstand up to 60 mph winds! It's not cheap, but think of all the money you waste on those crappy ones you get at Walgreen's every season. Wet head no more, I'm sold!
22 Days Until Christmas!
Forget about a list of gifts – all I want for Christmas is this pair Tibi mules. The minimal silhouette is right up my alley and the sturdy wooden heel is ideal for city walking. Santa, can you hear me?
Bring On the Cold
Who needs sunshine when you have this perfect pink shearling coat from MSGM to keep you smiling all day long?
Get Me to Geta!
I am a creature of habit — especially when it comes to eating out. On a recent fall evening, we ventured out of our realm and tried out a Japanese restaurant in Piedmont called Geta. It was delicious! We ordered agedashi tofu (one of my favorite appetizers!), a few simple rolls (hamachi, salmon, tuna) and teriyaki chicken donburi. Everything was perfectly prepared, from the fresh fish to the grilled poultry. The prices were reasonable and the service was friendly and efficient. Geta has become one of our new go-to spots when we don't feel like cooking at home, which happens to be a lot these days . . . The restaurant is tiny, so if you want to get a table, prepare for a wait. A better idea is to call in your order, pick it up 15 minutes later and eat where ever the mood takes you. Sunset picnic anyone?
The Find
We’re currently in the middle of a home remodel so I’ve been looking for off-the-cuff items to spruce up our space. Luckily, I’ve found a hidden gem where I could find vintage one-of-a-kind items on the cheap - the local thrift store. So far, I’ve picked up a vintage army cot (for an upcoming DIY project), a leather trunk, and other cool decor items.
On my latest trip I came across this vintage structured tobacco leather bag. It's over 30 years old, but the full grain leather still looks brand new. I love the boxy silhouette and the classic buckle detailing. I’ll use it as a camera bag when I'm out and about and as a decor piece when it's not in use. It cost me $25, more than I usually spend at this place, but totally worth it.
Craft Cocktails With a Twist — And One Amazing Tip That Will Change the Way You Garnish Forever
With alfresco entertaining in full swing, it's time to up the ante with a few delicious signature cocktails. We came across two refreshing recipes during an amazing experience at Domaine Chandon in Napa Valley.
Ian Winget (mixologist, sommelier, and Domaine Chandon alum), personally taught us how to whip up two cocktails that literally took two minutes to make. The first drink was called a Summer Sweet and Savory — Summer savory is actually an herb that resembles rosemary. Made with sweet fruit and and Ian's famous strawberry rhubarb bitters, this crisp concoction is perfect for brunch outdoors or early evening cocktails.
If you really want to show off your hipster cocktail cred, the Blackberry Crush was made for you. Devised of muddled mint, blackberry, and served in a cool mini mason jar, this drink is sure to impress your friends. The secret to getting all of that great flavor and smell from cocktail herbs? SLAP IT. Yes, it sounded a little strange when Ian told us to slap our herbs (in this case, mint), but once we "slapped" it, the herbal essence was much stronger and flavorful. Here are the recipes below. Thank you Ian and Domaine Chandon for the wonderful evening!
Summer Sweet and Savory Recipe:
Makes one cocktail
3 oz strawberry lemonade
3 dashes of strawberry rhubarb bitters
2 to 3 oz Chandon Blanc de Noirs
Spring of fresh Summer Savory
2 large strawberries, quartered
Pour strawberry lemonade into a shaker. Add the bitters and ice. Shake. Strain into a coupe or other decorative glass. Add the Summer Savory and strawberries. Top with Blanc de Noirs and serve.
Blackberry Crush Recipe:
Makes one cocktail
7 ripe blackberries
5 mint leaves
1/2 oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
2-3 oz Chandon Brut Classic
1 lemon slice
Put the blackberries, mint, and agave syrup in the bottom of a rocks glass. Muddle until crushed (be careful not to overdo it!) Add the Brut Classic and then stir. Garnish with lemon slice and serve.
Craft Cocktails With a Twist — And One Amazing Tip That Will Change the Way You Garnish Forever
With alfresco entertaining in full swing, it's time to up the ante with a few delicious signature cocktails. We came across two refreshing recipes during an amazing experience at Domaine Chandon in Napa Valley.
Ian Winget (mixologist, sommelier, and Domaine Chandon alum), personally taught us how to whip up two cocktails that literally took two minutes to make. The first drink was called a Summer Sweet and Savory — Summer savory is actually an herb that resembles rosemary. Made with sweet fruit and and Ian's famous strawberry rhubarb bitters, this crisp concoction is perfect for brunch outdoors or early evening cocktails.
If you really want to show off your hipster cocktail cred, the Blackberry Crush was made for you. Devised of muddled mint, blackberry, and served in a cool mini mason jar, this drink is sure to impress your friends. The secret to getting all of that great flavor and smell from cocktail herbs? SLAP IT. Yes, it sounded a little strange when Ian told us to slap our herbs (in this case, mint), but once we "slapped" it, the herbal essence was much stronger and flavorful. Here are the recipes below. Thank you Ian and Domaine Chandon for the wonderful evening!
Summer Sweet and Savory Recipe: Makes one cocktail
3 oz strawberry lemonade 3 dashes of strawberry rhubarb bitters 2 to 3 oz Chandon Blanc de Noirs Spring of fresh Summer Savory 2 large strawberries, quartered
Pour strawberry lemonade into a shaker. Add the bitters and ice. Shake. Strain into a coupe or other decorative glass. Add the Summer Savory and strawberries. Top with Blanc de Noirs and serve.
Blackberry Crush Recipe: Makes one cocktail
7 ripe blackberries 5 mint leaves 1/2 oz agave syrup (or simple syrup) 2-3 oz Chandon Brut Classic 1 lemon slice
Put the blackberries, mint, and agave syrup in the bottom of a rocks glass. Muddle until crushed (be careful not to overdo it!) Add the Brut Classic and then stir. Garnish with lemon slice and serve.
Gorgeous Guest Dresses Fit For Every Wedding and Every Budget
It's officially wedding season, and if the slew of invites filling your mailbox (or inbox) have you thinking "What am I going to wear?" we've got you covered. Finding the perfect dress — one that simultaneously fits the dress code and will make you stand out (in a good way, of course) — can be difficult, so I culled the top 30 gorgeous dresses for you to shop. Just keep in mind: never, ever wear white and never go too short, or too tight for that matter. From sophisticated lace sheaths to black-tie-appropriate gowns, we found the perfect dress options for every kind of budget. After all, you never want to be that girl at the wedding. Click here to see more of my picks.
Tibi's Sneakers Are Exactly What You Need For Spring
With just one day until the official start of Spring, Tibi just released an irresistibly cool exclusive sneaker collaboration with Converse and Vans. The seven-piece collection features the classic styles we're used to, but this time doused in Tibi's pretty Spring prints, showcasing colorful flowers and abstract art. Even more, each pair, priced at $125, can be customized with your own initials for an extrapersonal touch. With Spring's sporty trend in high gear, pair these cute kicks with a floral dress or denim for a cool twist on off-duty dressing.
Spring Wish List
It's time to embrace bold prints, standout sandals, and bright minibags from some of my favorite designers like Alexander Wang, Dolce & Gabbana, and Reed Krakoff. Sigh, if only . . .
Styling 101: Proof That a Pop of Print Goes a Long Way
To help us get our Spring styling in order, we're looking to Tank editor Caroline 
Shop left to right: Zara Cotton Blazer ($129), Mango Openwork Details Sweater ($35, originally $70), Lala Berlin Floral-Print Skirt ($397), ABS by Allen Schwartz Stone Drop Earrings ($65), Ray-Ban Original Aviators ($195), Aldo Filson Pumps ($45, originally $90)
Now's Your Chance to Snag a Piece From Gwyneth Paltrow's Closet
It's not often when we get to step inside Gwyneth Paltrow's closet, but in the name of charity, the multitalented celebrity is selling a few pieces from her personal wardrobe for a do-good reason. To benefit The Edible Schoolyard Project, The David Lynch Foundation, and Pencils of Promise, Gwyneth just launched her Goop Giving Charity Closet Sale featuring her lightly worn items ranging from Roger Vivier bags to Stella McCartney denim skirts. Items still range on the pricey side, $250 to $2,000, but proceeds go to the above charities. Shopping for a cause never looked so good.