Just a classic black and white ensemble, fitting for an evening of drinks at Neiman Marcus' fall preview event last night. Saw a lot of great familiar faces and even had a chance to finally chat with the sweet Anh behind the powerhouse blog 9 to 5 Chic. If you haven't bookmarked her yet, I highly recommend you do!
As for this lovely quilted shoulder bag from the new Rachel Rachel Roy bag line (which you saw the contents of here), I can't wait to start toting it around for both daytime and evening events -- the color and versatile strap make it easy to transition between the two!
They say you can learn a lot about someone just by looking through the contents of their purse, so when the lovely folks over at Rachel Roy sent me this darling quilted Rachel Rachel Roy bag -- I figured it was the perfect time to spill. My must-haves that is. Here's a little about what I have to tote with me during the day to feel ready for everything I have to tackle:
1.) My iPhone goes everywhere -- without it, I'm practically missing my left arm! (I'm left handed.) My favorite apps? Twitter, Instagram, Yelp and, of course, Words with Friends.
2.) Assortment of business cards, necessary for those after-work events when I don't have time to run back home and grab some. Speaking of my business cards, I just ordered some new ones from a company like Metal Kards. They look so much more professional than my old ones and I can't wait to start handing them out at my next event.
3.) You all know I love my sunglasses -- especially this pair of Karen Walkers. They're glued to my face whenever I head out the door.
4.) Two types of lipstick, one bright pop of color (I love Revlon's "Persian Melon", the other a more neutral, day time appropriate color (Chanel's "Monte Carlo"). You never know what may come up after work that you might need to glam up for.
5.) Small, compact wallet. This particular cobalt blue one is from H&M. While I've never been much of a wallet person (it's usually just where my receipts go to die), I think I'm ready to invest in a nice one. I'm not sure which brand I want to buy but I think I'll need to get quite a big one. I'm struggling to fit much in this wallet at the minute!! Any suggestions?
6.) Always, always, always have a book on me. I love being able to pop it out and read a few pages while on the bus to work.
7.) My Moleskin. I like to take notes. A LOT of notes. About a lot of random things. This one in particular I've been filing away everything from to-do lists to outfit ideas -- sometimes when the mood strikes ya, you just have to write it down!
8.) Keys. Must have these. Landlord does NOT like it when I bug her to let me into the building because I forgot said keys.
9.) As for the random bottom contents of the purse, it's usually an assortment of bobby pins and hair ties. Because my hair is a beast to tame! Trust me!
Want to see what I wore with this trusty tote? Stay tuned later this morning -- outfit post to follow!
Top: Thrifted via Wasteland in SF (similar style here); Jeans: c/o Hudson; Shoes: Miu Miu (similar style here); Bag: American Apparel (similar style here); Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: Michael Kors watch, Forever 21 necklace, J. Crew bracelet
Ran late this morning for work -- this outfit was the end result as I literally sprinted out the door, fastening my shoes as I went (how's that for multitasking?). While I usually don't opt for jeans at the office, I think the ankle strap nude heels and pearls glammed it up just enough.
This lovely little Banana Republic Mad Men collection dress (which hits stores August 11) couldn't have come at a more perfect time -- been playing major catch up with season four of Mad Men while working at home. Paired with some new ankle strap heels and a top bun to rival Joan, I was set for a Monday back at the office.
There's something about wearing an almost pajama-like outfit to work that I can't seem to get enough of lately. Does this mean I probably am craving more sleep? Yes. But I'm not going to stop scooping up silky pants like this pair. I think they'll transition just perfectly to fall with cozy knit sweaters and leather jackets.
If there is one sure fire way to cheer up my Monday (or Tuesday, Wednesday, or heck, Thursday) -- it would have to be opening up an email late last night from the lovely Rachel of Viz Basix to find out that she had sketched me and some of my recent outfits!
I've been a fan of Rachel's work ever since I spotted her sketches of Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere last year and since then, have been hooked to her Blogger Sketch Sunday features. She's extremely talented (not to mention a stylish dresser!) and it's understatement to say, that I'm extremely flattered she sketched me. If you haven't already, do go check out her work (and swing on by my little feature here, why don't ya?)
There's something quite counterintuitive about wearing leather over the summer, luckily with an overabundance of silky, slightly sheer shirts (try saying that three times fast), the two seem to balance each other out nicely. And for this look in particular, I have my slight obsession with Marie Claire's Accessories Director Taylor Tomasi Hill to thank. Her ability to combine knock out accessories with subtle statement clothing pieces is perfection in my book and I like to think my new Camilla Skovgaard kicks are a fitting tribute.
Who are some of your go-to style icons? I'm always on the hunt for more inspiration!
Blazer: Zara (similar stye here); Sweater: Wasteland on Haight Street (similar style here); Shorts: Urban Outfitters (similar style here); Shoes: Charlotte Ronson; Bag: Cambridge Satchel Company (similar color here); Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: Michael Kors watch, J. Crew chain bracelet, "Krystal" name necklace from Mynamenecklace.com
This bag is just what I needed to brighten an otherwise very gray day in San Francisco -- only further proof that neon and neutrals are just so right together!
For those of you who follow me on Twitter, you may already know that this brightly hued beauty showed up at my office the other day. It then, of course, promptly sat on the front of my desk serving as a traffic signal of sorts -- or maybe from all the office rubber neckers, it was the cause of traffic. Either way, fine by me, as long as I have my shades handy!
Seriously. So. Bright. These photos do not do it justice. Hopefully some outfit pictures will, though! Stay tuned later this morning to see the bag in action!
After a quick change of plans this weekend due to the man friend's recent back injury, we unpacked our bags originally intended for Yosemite and relaxed at home. (I relaxed, he recovered actually, which was perhaps just what I needed to feel back on track again.) Some much needed cleaning and closet purging, lead to some very productive projects being crossed off my list (hello freshly painted drawers!) and even a deserved trip to Crossroads proved very fruitful (hello almost-never-worn-Miu-Mius!)
As for this dress (and heck, the hairdo) I'd be lying if I didn't admit I've been watching more than my fair share of Sex and the City reruns. I'm feeling a little Bradshaw in this, circa season six when she's dating her Russian luvah. Luckily, lil' Miss Jones (Not Samantha, Beth of B. Jones Style) has an awesome tutorial for this up-do, aptly called "The Carrie Bradshaw Bun.""Of course, I couldn't help but wonder," how did I ever exist without knowing just how to do this hair style? So simple and perfect for summer days!
Enough about my weekend though, what did all of you do?
On me: Top: Zara; Pants: H&M; Shoes: Jessica Simpson Dany platforms; Michael Kors watch On Jessica: Dress: Kate Spade; Shoes: Coach
Last night, a few coworkers and I swung by the book signing party for Jessica Quirk of What I Wore and her new, namesake style manual, What I Wore, Four Seasons, One Closet, Endless Recipes for Personal Style. (Psstt...if you haven't yet, you can pick up a copy here.)
The event itself was beautiful -- always great seeing my stylish San Franciscan ladies out and about, and of course, getting to catch up with Jessica was wonderful. Having gotten to know Jessica since the early days of when I was starting out with my blog, she's always been so supportive, genuine and just downright positive! I couldn't be happier (or more proud) of her and her new book launch! Brava, Jessica, brava!
Alaïa ankle wrap patent leather pumps, SUPER on sale at TheOutnet
These Alaïa beauties just got delivered the other day and I cannot wait to start styling them up for fall with ladylike mid-length skirts! Anything you guys are craving for the cooler, crisp months ahead?
Blouse: J. Crew; Jeans: Zara; Shoes: Elizabeth & James; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: J. Crew bracelet, Michael Kors watch, Asos medallion necklace, Emerson made pendant necklace; Nail polish: Chanel's Orange Fizz
This is what I throw on when I'm running desperately late -- nothing beats a pair of skinny jeans, silky button front blouse and heels! What's your go-to outfit when running out the door?
Just some primary colors at Sunday's farmer's market -- scooped up some blueberries, a gaggle of small fern-like potted plants and garlic flavored almonds. What more can you ask for?
How was your weekend?
Dress: Zara; Sweater: Simply Vera for Kohls; Sandals: J. Crew; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Bag: Zara
Absolutely obsessed with this Revlon lipstick I picked up over the weekend -- "Persian Melon." It's such a saturated pink that I can't stop pairing it with seemingly neutral outfits, like this black and white number that I threw on after a great day hiking. I love how lipstick colors (and heck, nail polish colors) can sometimes influence an outfit -- talk about a cheap accessory!
On an unrelated noted, I would like to call the attention of all my San Francisco/Bay Area based readers: my team at Google is conducting a user study next week in SF and we need ladies who like to shop (correct me if I'm wrong, but I think you all like to shop just a little, right?).
We'll be focusing mainly on shopping for dresses and would love to have you spill some of your dress shopping stories for us. If you happen to be free next week on July 19, 20 or 21, please do sign up! For additional info and to sign up, click here. Would be great to meet some of you there!
For all my other readers not based in the Bay Area, please do sign up as well. We will be branching out and conducting studies in other cities later this summer.
Shirt: Urban Outfitters; Shorts: Zara; Hat: H&M; Shoes: Charlotte Ronson; Clutch: Lodis iPad case via Gilt; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: J. Crew chain bracelet, American Eagle friendship bracelets, Michael Kors watch; Lipstick: "Persian Melon" by Revlon
Jacket: Old Navy; Blouse: H&M; Skirt: Forever 21; Shoes: All Saints; Purse: American Apparel: Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: Michael Kors watch, Kelly Framel necklace, American Apparel friendship bracelets; Belt: Vintage
Normally this camo jacket comes out on the weekends (I love it paired with stripes best) but this time I decided to try it out at work. Given the recent turn to icky San Francisco weather, it was a fun, quirky alternative to my normal go-to blazer.
Dress: Catherine Malandrino via Gilt; Shoes: Lanvin; Purse: Vintage clutch, gift; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Jewelry: "Krystal" necklace via Mynamenecklace.com, diamond necklace, gift
Wore this on Saturday for a wedding out in Santa Cruz. I absolutely love going to weddings, especially summer ones. Good thing I have another one to attend next Saturday -- cannot wait!
How was your weekend? Get lots of sun with friends?
Blazer: Zara; Tank: Forever 21; Shorts: Old pair of Levis; Sandals: J. Crew; Clutch: Lodis iPad case via Gilt; Sunglasses: Karen Walker; Necklace: c/o Mikimoto Japan Relief Pendant
When I was recently approached by the lovely folks over at Mikimoto to style this gorgeous necklace you see above, I was happy to oblige. Sometimes it's easy for us all to get so wrapped up and effected by the disasters that rock our world only to lose sight of it a mere month later. Our lives inevitably and through no fault really of our own -- go on.
With all net proceeds of this necklace going toward the Japanese Red Cross -- I'm happy to see companies like Mikimoto continuing the relief efforts for the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit Japan back in March.
To learn more about this pendant, visit Mikimoto's site here, or follow them on Facebook and Twitter, if you like.
After some much needed reading over the long weekend (yep, finished Atlas Shrugged, highly recommend BTW) I couldn't be happier to curl up with my very own copy of What I Wore, Four Seasons, One Closet, Endless Recipes for Personal Style, by my talented and equally lovely friend, Jessica Quirk.
Back when I jumped into this whole blogging business almost two years ago, Jessica of What I Wore was one the very first personal style blogs I bookmarked. Her relatable style and down to earth attitude is equal parts refreshing as it is inspiring -- so it's no surprise I consider her not only a style guru but someone I'm happy to call a friend.
From the ever so quiet whispers of her writing a book to actually seeing a physical copy today -- I gotta tip my hat to you lady: Congrats! I couldn't be happier for you -- and can't wait to kick off my heels after work and start reading it tonight!
Have any of you picked up your copy yet? You can snag one here!