The Peak of Très Chic: October 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

Treat Yo Self

Ok loves, confession time. I am not naturally great at saving money. (Shocker, right?) Just like Carrie Bradshaw, I like my money where I can see it- hanging in my closet!

Now that I am officially a "grown-up" with "grown up" responsibilities, I have forced myself to save a little money here and there, invest in my 401K, and never stretch myself beyond my means. Mint has been my favorite companion, emailing me every time I go over my budget so that I have the strength to put away my pocket book at the Chanel make-up counter. (Side note: If you are like me, and need help saving money and budgeting, check out Mint now. It's a dream. You'll thank me later when you have enough money to retire by 40.)

All that being said, I have been so good this past month with my money that I have decided to treat myself to a mini shopping spree. I was inspired to "treat myself" after watching this week's episode of Parks and Recreation. Did anyone see it? If not, watch this little gem and you'll understand my mindset-

Don't you love it? So what am I going to treat myself to, you ask? These pretty little things...

Rachel Zoe Poncho

It's everything...

Leather Leggings

A warm cashmere tunic to throw over leggings

via Piperlime

Tory Burch Suede Selma Boots- I DIE!

See? Only a few small little splurges. Oh and did I mention it's almost Halloween? I can't wait to post pics of my costume. I never dress up, but for some reason had the urge to do so this year. Happy Friday!

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Nooks & Crannies

The one quote I keep at the forefront of my mind when designing my home or shopping for interiors is this-

Our home is not only an escape from the world, but also a beautiful representation of who we are. It is the place we most frequent, where we lay our heads at night, often the place where we get our hearts broken or perhaps where we fall in love. That's why it is SO important to love your home and find comfort when you walk through your front door. Just as each person has a unique fashion taste, each person has a unique interior decor taste. Staying on point with trends shouldn't be one's primary concern- rather, it should be choosing pieces that most vividly tell who you are.

This take on interiors may seem extreme, especially for individuals who feel intimidated by the interior decor process. Fashion and interior design are alike in this way. Many people shy away from fashion, passing it off as a "frivolous" or "superficial" pursuit. However, I often find that when a person dismisses fashion in such a way, what they really are afraid of is messing it up, getting it wrong, or even drawing attention to themselves. So un tres chic, friends! One should never fear fashion or interior design. Follow your heart to find what you love. Here are a few of my favorite nooks and crannies- places I'd love to have in my home, where I could curl up with a good book, take a nap, paint, or design.

I love lucite. I know it is likely more of a trend than a lasting design element, but the lightness of it beautifully juxtaposes against a nailhead settee. The added leopard pillow is fabulous. Via Bijou & Boheme

via Lonny

via Casasugar

via My Design Chic

via La Dolce Vita

via The Glitter Guide

Oh how I love books! All these books and the beautiful way they are displayed make my mouth water. Via Lonny mag

via The Decorista

A great little nook for underneath a staircase. I am loving the zebra pillows with the dusted blue settee. Via My Design Chic

The bold ikat throw pillows are to die for! I'd love to curl up on this couch to sketch or read.

Via Casa Sugar

My words of wisdom today for you: Don't be afraid of interior design, fashion, or really anything you feel drawn to! Don't be afraid to mess it up. Honing your creativity is all about making mistakes. You just have to know which mistakes to keep. Happy Tuesday, loves!

Monday, October 24, 2011

Monday Morning Inspiration- From L.A. In the Bay

Happy Monday everyone! I survived Vegas.... and can't wait to share some photos and stories.... but on this early Monday morning I'd rather focus on some pretty little things. Today marks the second Monday of my new series- Monday Morning Inspiration. Today, the lovely Lauren from L.A. In the Bay will be sharing where she is currently drawing inspiration from. Lauren and I share similar tastes in bold fashion, a love of make-up, and our faith. She has been a joy to get to know. I know you will love her choices. So, without further ado, I'll let Lauren take it away....

Hello lovelies! So happy to be sharing with all of you my "Monday morning Inspiration". There is so much that has been inspiring me lately, especially with my new addiction, Pinterest. Here are just a few things that are inspiring me right now...

1. Statement Necklaces

2. All things Leopard

3. Fun Nails

4. Bold Lips

5. Everything that sparkles!

6. DIY Pumpkins

7. These Quotes

*all images from my pinterest

These are only a few of the many things that daily inspire me. Hope you all have a wonderful, blessed, & inspiring Monday!

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Leaving On A Jet Plane.... In Less Than 24 Hours!!

In approximately 23 hours and 30 minutes, yours truly will be in route to the fabulous Las Vegas. I can't say enough how thankful I am for your feedback about an appropriate Vegas wardrobe. If you missed this post, read it here. After hearing your thoughts, I am confident enough to sport my sequins in all their excess!

So with less than 24 hours until take-off, you think I would have my bags packed (or at least made significant progress on doing so) right? Oh, so wrong. My bag currently looks a little something like this...

Atleast my feet will look super stylish, right? I have a huge fear of going on vacation and forgetting my favorite top, lipgloss, curling iron, pair of wedges.....you get my point. My girlfriends are well aware of this, and have made me promise not to pack my whole closet. With 5 girls squeezing into a 4-person room (give us a break, we are all 23 year-olds on limited budgets!), every inch of space will be coveted.

via Mustang Gina Tumblr

I can't wait to share pictures and stories from our girls trip. I'll be back here next week to share our fun experiences. Unless, of course, Prince Harry asks me to elope with him and become the next princess. You heard me right- Prince Harry is supposedly going to be in LV this weekend, too! Can you imagine?

via East Side Bride

Let's hope I can get my act together and get my suitcase in order for our flight tomorrow. Either way, have a fabulous weekend my friends, and bon voyage!

via Brown Eyed Belle Julie

Monday, October 17, 2011

Monday Morning Inspiration

Oh Monday mornings.... don't you love them? If it is as hard for you as it is for me to get moving and get inspired on a Monday morning, then I'm here to be your hero baby........

I'm gonna kiss away your pain by sharing a smorgasboard of inspiration each Monday morning that I hope will brighten your week and remind you why you love life- even on Mondays at 8 am when you have already spilled your Starbucks latte on your new Halston dress. :)