5.22.2013

Memorial Day Style

There's nothing better than an extra long weekend. I for one have been looking forward to Memorial Day these past couple of weeks and making big plans to eat some good food, relax, hang out with friends and soak in the sunshine (fingers crossed we get some). I'll be turning to outfits that are easy, comfortable, stylish and can be dressed up on whim with a pair of heels. Lately shorts and blousy tanks have been my go-to, among them this one from Tailor & Stylist—a boutique founded by a longtime Rodeo Drive tailor and stylist. I highly suggest checking out the site which has tons of great finds at great prices, plus they offer free shipping! Use this code for 10% off: HaveThat10. 
Tailor & Stylist top, Zara skort and heels, BaubleBar rope bracelet, Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Celine sunglasses, J.Crew hat
Psst, the Nordstrom's Half Yearly Sale starts today—40% off friends! And because I'm on such a shorts and blousy tops kick, here are some options I found at Norstrom.

5.21.2013

DIY: Paper Luminarias + Stir Sticks

When choosing all of the details for our Mexican style rehearsal dinner there were two things I wanted to incorporate: fun lighting and a tasty cocktail. Stephanie Sanders of Shindig events helped us figure out how to achieve both elements while sticking to a budget. Here are two simple DIY projects that she put together that are stylish and cost affective. 

Paper Luminarias
supplies: 
• candles in clear glass holders (assorted sizes work great for variety)
• paper cardstock
• all-over paper punches (martha stewart brand)
• scissors
• glue stick
• ruler
Step 1: measure around the candle and cut the cardstock for an accurate fit. You can vary heights or make them all the same—whatever you prefer. 
Step 2: select an all-over paper punch. You can punch a specific pattern or at random. Luminarias are very forgiving and look beautiful when lit no matter what—anything goes! Place glue along the entire edge of the paper and wrap around the candle. Dry for at least 30 minutes. Light and enjoy!
Fiesta Stir Sticks

Supplies:
• tissue paper
• bamboo or wooden skewers
• scissors
• glue

Step 1: Fold a piece of tissue paper in half. Cut a 3" rectangle and fringe at the crease (leave 1/4" at the open edge).
 Step 2: Glue the inside of the open edges together and put glue along one of the non-fringed sides. Step 3: Place the stick on the glue at the edge and roll the stick until all of the tissue paper is glued onto the stick. 
Step 4: Adjust fringe as necessary, grab your cocktail and stir!

images by cory sanders

5.20.2013

Three and Three

There's no place I'd rather be on a sunny day than my home base, Santa Barbara. With so many amazing beaches, restaurants, boutiques and hiking trails it's almost impossible not to fall in love with this coastal gem. Intermix recently asked me to style three looks at three of my favorite local pit stops. Head over to my Santa Barbara Black Book here to see more of my favorite haunts. 
#1 Butterfly Beach—the best spot for catching sunsets. 
Missoni poncho and headband, Jimmy Choo wedges
La Arcada—perfect for an afternoon coffee and some home/vintage shopping. 
Rag & Bone blazer and top, A.L.C. skirt and Brian Atwood heels
 Lucky's—a Montecito restaurant with a fun atmosphere, the best steaks in town and my favorite dessert (the Salty Turtle Sundae).
 Rag & Bone blazer and top, J. Brand denim shorts and Brian Atwood heels

 Be sure to check out the new Intermix Santa Barbara store opening later this month in Montecito!