Saturday, February 28, 2015

Here & There 2.28

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Happy last day of the worst month! I am more than ready to kick February to the curb and welcome March with open arms. How are you celebrating? We're meeting up with some friends this evening for tacos and drinks, and tomorrow Chris gets the info for his new job. So exciting. I'm hoping to finally finish In Cold Blood, too, I feel like I've been reading it forever, but I'm so glad I worked through it.

How gorgeous is this vintage '70s embroidered vest?

The secret to a strong immune system

Cute sets

A cute remix from Bex

This would make a gorgeous casual wedding dress (also love this tee)

I've always loved crows... this story makes me love them more

I think I need these jeans for SXSW

Gorgeous (+ cozy) undrthings

Opting out of motherhood. This could have been written about me

Save 30% off your purchase from Gap - love this jacket and this chill sweater dress

Style hack: how to remove armpit stains from clothes

A gorgeous makeup pallette for spring

Chocolate pound cake with maple bourbon frosting? Yes. I will absolutely be making this cake for Chris's birthday

Save 30% off sweaters at Urban Outfitters! Love this one and this one

Keiko's room is so pretty

Has anyone read this book? It looks interesting

This made me tear up - finding love after a heart transplant. pretty amazing

This looks so cozy!

Hair envy. Forever & always.

Well, this is cute

Monday, February 23, 2015

Aubergine Dream

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On a freezing cold Saturday, snow unexpectedly falling from the sky, get dressed up, even if it's just for the grocery store, even if it's just for 20 minutes - long enough to discover the car is dead and you need to walk the 1/2 mile to go buy a new battery and lug it home. In that case, go back inside and throw on some snow boots, a sweater, and a big jacket and admit defeat. You win this one, winter.

Get the look: Free People jacket - similar // Vintage estate collar // old BDG jeans - similar // Vintage/thrifted bag - similar vintage // Vintage boots - similar


Saturday, February 21, 2015

Here & There 2.21

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Happy Saturday! How's your weekend turning out so far? Today has been a day of happy accidents for Chris and I. We originally planned to go snowshoeing up in the Poconos but were turned off by the below freezing temperature and weather advisory, good thing though, because our car wouldn't start. Once we finally got it up and running, the snow had started to fall in Philadelphia, and now we're warm and cozy inside while an altogether unexpected snowstorm falls outside. We'll try for snowshoeing tomorrow - maybe we won't even need to go that far to find enough now!

How stunning is this vintage angel-wing caftan?

Spend 24 hours in Paris with Angela

A good one for a snowy Saturday: 5 things to do with a whole chicken from Bex

If you click on any link, let it be this one: Sleater-Kinney + Bob's Burgers A New Wave. Oh, my heart...

Speaking of third-wave feminists I love, this book is absolutely on my must-read-now list

Is it strange to wish I was here right now?

The prettiest phone case

Cute socks to keep you warm (and some cute shoes to go with 'em)

Perfect, perfect jeans

Who ate these as a kid? Always the best no-bakes

You can buy a town in Connecticut (basically Stars Hollow) for less than a Brooklyn apartment (all you need now is a Luke)

Save 30% off everything at Gap - digging these jeans and this pretty sleep top

Oliver Sacks on learning he has terminal cancer. this was a great read.

This dress would be so cute for spring - those little daisy straps!

Mmm... this gluten-free chocolate cake looks incredible!

How to clean your house in 15 minutes

Gorgeous pieces for spring from J.O.A. - love that little jacquard dress!

Have you tried this? I've heard it's amazing for your skin

The perfect coat for March - such a great color!

Yoga is for everyone

This might be the perfect sweatshirt

Mad Men in the '70s looks amazing - Meghan's outfit!

Have you checked out my spring essentials?

This Westminster Dog Show quiz is brilliant

I hate February

This would make a gorgeous wedding dress

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Spring Dreaming

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Philly finally has some snow on the ground, and I'm dreaming of sunny days and spring weather. Bare legs, the feeling of jeans and sneakers and a tee and that's it, throwing on a dress and a jacket and being ready in 10 minutes. I don't plan on adding much to my closet for the next season, but the pieces I am planning for are simple, go-with-everything clothes that can easily transition into summer (remember summer?) and later, to fall (let's just forget about fall for right now)... here's what's on my must list:


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1. Free People dress
2. Alexa Chung x AG overalls
3. Mink Pink dress
4. Maison Scotch sweatshirt
5. Wildfox sunnies
6. Street Level bag
7. Vanessa Mooney necklace
8. Jeffrey Campbell lace-up heels
9. Converse sneakers
10. Madewell jeans

Since we moved to Philadelphia, I've been working on streamlining my closet as much as possible. Bags and bags have been brought to Buffalo Exchange and Goodwill, and I've held off on making many purchases for the past few months so that when I do, it's something that will seamlessly fit in with what I already have. Lately I've been seriously digging on ShopBop, I love how the selection is curated and seeing brands mixed and matched gives me a better idea of how each piece will fit the puzzle of my style (plus, free shipping and returns isn't too bad, either). On my list for the next season? Perfectly distressed jeans (to wear with oversized tees and everything else), fitted (but not skinny) overalls (wear 'em now with a dainty top and faux-fur coat), a couple cute dresses (perfect with a leather jacket or shredded denim), and versatile accessories, all in simple hues and classic shapes. Mix and match, toss in some vintage, wear it now, wear it later. however you damn well please. Happy (almost) spring, friends.

What's on your list?

Monday, February 16, 2015

City Stripes

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At the risk of suffering the groans and eyerolls of the entire Northeast... finally, some snow! HA. I'm sure I'd be singing a different tune if I still lived in Beverly (that's just outside of Boston for anyone who hasn't been reading me for very long), but man, we've really been getting the short end of the stick in terms of winters this year. All the freezing cold temperatures with none of the beautiful snow.

Cold weather and anything other than leggings and sweatshirts has been... a struggle lately, and I've officially started counting down the days in anticipation of warmer weather. But, for this freezing cold Valentines Saturday, we bundled up and strolled downtown and through Rittenhouse for some hot coffee and people watching (we even saw a marriage proposal!). It's crazy to think that just a few months ago we lived in this part of town, there are aspects of it that I miss -- the old buildings are gorgeous -- but definitely ones that I don't -- parking. I've been keeping things easy this season, living in jeans and simple colors and patterns. I just haven't been in the mood to deal with tights much this year. I received this top from Choies recently and I can tell it's going to be a staple through the end of winter and into spring. I love the slightly boxy fit and drop sleeves, especially with black jeans and a camo jacket. And a pink lip... because for Valentine's Day you need at least a little hot pink in there.

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Here & There 2.14

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Happy Valentine's Day! We rang in the day of love with waffles for breakfast, a stroll around Rittenhouse (and a trip to Buffalo Exchange), hot cocoa as the snow flew, and now we're back in our cozy place, listening to the Dead and making pasta from scratch. No crazy dates, no expensive dinners out, just a chill day together, decompressing from what was a really stressful and weird week. Tomorrow we're going to stay in from the cold - it's supposed to get up to a whopping 18 degrees -- and have a work day, Chris has his vintage store to work on (coming soon!), and I have about a million blog posts that I want to write. Are you celebrating Valentine's Day? Remember to show yourself some love today, too, you deserve it.


Jess Amity is having a big sale, and if I were you, I'd absolutely nab this 1970s patchwork suede cape. Also, this hat is pretty much perfection.

Loved this honest post from Angela (and that gorgeous pic of her)

Sassy magazine lives

The world's most perfect loafer... and their low-budget counterpart

I would happily live here

This book looks great and I can't wait to read this.

Feminist Valentine's Cards

Save 40-50% off all sale styles at J.Crew! Including these awesome Vans.

Love this outfit.

This jacket!

Love this campaign from ModCloth - and seeing my old coworkers looking so gorgeous! This suit is beautiful.

Science doesn't lie

These are some gorgeous shoes

26 pictures that will give you some peace for once in your life

Yum - this raw carrot cake looks so good!

My absolute favorite cookbook - what's yours?

These would be perfect for a spring wedding - whether you're a guest or the bride!

I'd love to add this quilt to our bedroom

A blind date with a professional stunt driver

Save 20% off at Asos! Love this crochet dress

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

3 Ingredient Toasted Coconut Butter (It's Real & It's Amazing)

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Game changer, folks. This stuff is so, so good. And so damn easy to make.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve become kind of obsessed with all things coconut, including coconut butter. Melted and drizzled over fruit, spread on apple slices, added to smoothies… it’s incredible. But I got to thinking that I could probably make it at home, and make it even better. And you know what? I was right. With the addition of vanilla and sea salt, and the added step of toasting the coconut flakes, this recipe takes simple coconut butter and elevates it. Knocks it out of the park. Make a batch, and just try not to put it on everything (I'm eating some now with apples).

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Toasted Coconut Butter with Vanilla
makes about 1.5 cups

3 cups unsweetened coconut flakes

1 tbsp vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

Tools: Baking sheet, food processor

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First, toast the coconut. To do this, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and evenly spread 2 cups of the coconut on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until the coconut is lightly toasted and golden brown. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.
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Place untoasted coconut, toasted coconut, vanilla, and sea salt in the food processor and process for about ten minutes, stopping to scrape down the canister as needed.
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Continue to process the coconut until the mixture is smooth. Pour into a seal-able glass container and allow to cool. Cover and store at room temperature (similar to coconut oil, coconut butter solidifies below 76 degrees).
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Serving suggestions:
Spread on toast or baked goods
Spread on sliced apples and top with honey
Make a parfait with yogurt and fruit
Use in place of nut butter in recipes
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This recipe and a portion of this post was originally published on the BLDG 25 blog as a part of my full time work with Free People

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

This is 31

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Last week, on my birthday. Jana was kind enough to take a few pics for me to document the passage of another year. On a day when Philadelphia was expected to get over a foot of snow... but got nothing, the dress code was anything but fancy... or festive for that matter. Just my beat up old boots and reliable basics, but that's just fine. Keep it chill, laid back. Have a cup of coffee (or two), maybe even have it in a bad ass new leather cup sleeve (a birthday gift from a good man).

In other news, who's started dreaming of bare legs, dresses, and sunshine? Because I definitely have.

Get the look: Free People sweater (on sale!) // Aeropostale tank // Madewell jeans // similar boots // Black Sparrow necklace // similar flannel // thrifted belt // self made crystal necklace // target hat

Friday, February 6, 2015

Here & There 2.7

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Oh hey, happy Friday night. It's a wild one over here, I think I just broke my toe on a kitchen chair and I'm watching old episodes of Chuck. #Dreamlife. But seriously... ouch. I think my plans for a long Saturday morning run have been ruined. What are you up to this weekend? I'm going out for food with friends tomorrow night and on Sunday we're going hiking. Have a good one!

+ Awesome news! This weekend only receive 50% off ticket prices for Texas Style Counsel: CAMP! Go here and enter the code TXSCBFF

Perfect vintage Levi's 501s - would look so cute rolled with ankle boots and a cool tee

So obsessed with Bleached London on Instagram - Angela got to try their beach lights kit!

These would look awesome with black heels and ankle jeans

23 times D.W. was the realest bitch who ever lived

Can't wait to try this cookbook

What is GAP doing? No,really.

My favorite bra right now - so comfy and looks amazing under a white tee... and another pretty one

An awesome gift for the traveler (or cocktail enthusiast) in your life (this site has awesome gifts)

25 Valentine's gift ideas based on the 5 love languages

Definitely want to add this book to our medicine cabinet

Love these loafers

They made a Keurig for beer

Love these shoes for spring

Patti Smith is queen

What a gorgeous swimsuit and the raddest beach towel to go with it

Definitely making these this weekend!

I don't give a $#!@ about your yoga, human!

What a great coat

When it comes to transgender etiquette: choose to be kind. #NoKidding

Some very sexy valentine's gifts

Love this jumpsuit

5 reasons to bring mindfulness to the body

Dreams do come true

So in love with the new Wildfox collection - that 'Camping' sweatshirt!

Made me laugh

so in love with this sweet little dress and this one too

Such a rad skirt

How to make ONE giant chocolate chip cookie

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Best Ever Berry Beet Smoothie

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I made this smoothie recently for work (I wanted something really ridiculously PINK for Valentine's Day) and I've been hooked ever since. I'll admit, going into it I was a little nervous about a couple of things, the first, obviously, was how beets would taste in a smoothie, the second... how my crappy 1970's blender would hold up against a root vegetable (seriously, my blender is the worst, it's older then me and every time I use it I'm afraid it's gonna blow). But I'm happy to report the blender pulled through and beets in a smoothie are awesome. Like, really awesome.

I opt for smoothies a few times a week, usually when I'm in more of a morning rush and need to drink my breakfast while I simultaneously get ready for work (not as easy to do with eggs and avocado, my usual go-to). I love that I can toss everything in the blender, pour the mixture into a glass and start my day with a ton of energy-giving nutrients, and playing around with flavor combinations is always fun. What I love about this one is the subtle earthy flavor, hint of sweetness, and... that color. Seriously, if you don't add kale (I usually do) the color is out of this world. Read on for the recipe and to learn about its benefits:
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Berry Beet Smoothie
Makes 1 smoothie

Ingredients:
1 cup frozen red berries (I used strawberries and raspberries)
1/4 cup thinly sliced raw beet
1/2 - 1 banana
1 tbs flax seed
1 tbs almond butter
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
8 oz. unsweetened almond milk

Optional: 2 tbs hemp protein powder (I always add this), a handful of washed kale with stems removed, 1/2 tsp coconut oil (can be used in place of almond butter), unsweetened toasted coconut for topping, honey for sweetness (though I don't think it needs it).

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high for 30 seconds, or until well-incorporated. If it's too thick, add more almond milk or some water. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy!
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Benefits: 

Beets: High in vitamins and minerals, beets are incredibly nutritious, with high levels of vitamins A, B, and C, and potent levels of potassium, magnesium, fiber and iron (to name just a few). Beets also work to purify the blood and cleanse the liver, making them an excellent detox food. Because they're low in calories, but high in naturally-occurring sugars, beets are a great source of energy in the morning since their sugars are released slowly (as opposed to processed sugar, which hits your bloodstream fast and furious).

Banana: Bananas boast high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin in the brain, helping to keep you calm, relaxed, and feeling happy. Like beets, bananas are also high in potassium and help to prevent and relieve leg cramps before and after exercise.

Ground flax seed: Flax seeds are packed with Omega-3's (the good fats), lignans (antioxidants), and fiber, but to get those powerful nutrients into your system, you've gotta grind them up. Ground flax is also a great source of protein.

Red berries: Raspberries are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, are lower in sugar, and are one of the highest fiber-containing foods -- 20% fiber per total weight. Strawberries are also an incredible source of vitamin C and antioxidants, however they are at the top of the 'Dirty Dozen', so be sure to purchase organic if you can.

Almond butter: Almond butter offers some nutritional advantages over peanut butter, with high vitamin E content, an essential antioxidant which protects your DNA from harmful free radicals, magnesium, and iron. Added to a smoothie, almond butter provides your body with essential fat to go with the protein provided by the flax seeds.
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This recipe and a portion of this post was originally published on the BLDG 25 blog as a part of my full time work with Free People

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Little Somethings: Valentine's Gifts for Guys

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Valentine's Day, a bright pink heart at the center of a cold, grey month. We're not huge on celebrating it the traditional way (candy, roses, dinner and a movie... those things are fine, but too much pressure for us), but I still like to do a little something. Go snowshoeing during the day, out for a drink in the evening, maybe cook some dinner at home, definitely eat some chocolate at some point because excuses, and most definitely make something or find a little gift to give. We show our love everyday, but I still like to find a small, sweet something for him, something better than the Girl Scout cookies he was presented with last week (although, can you really beat Thin Mints? Probably not), something that has the same effect as the little things I've been given over the years that call to mind a favorite time together, a sweet memory. A great day spent in one another's company.

Chris does not treat himself to much, exhibit A is that jacket up there (which was actually a gift from me, holes and all, but still), which makes giving gifts to him that much better... and that much more difficult actually, as he has extremely specific taste. Here are a few sweet little things I've had my eye on for February 14th for a man who prefers utility, likes to cook, and appreciates the handmade:

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Left: Warhorse Workshop beaded pin // Right: Souvenir Jewelry 'Born Free' ring (made in Philly!)


+ Do you have Valentine's plans? How do you like to celebrate?

Monday, February 2, 2015

The True Artist Helps the World by Revealing Mystic Truths

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A Sunday museum trip on a freezing cold day. This winter has been such a strange one, barely any snow, mostly rain. Cold air, but lacking the reward of a really good storm. We went in search of inspiration, of having our senses jolted back to life and that's exactly what we got. On a Super Bowl Sunday the crowds were slim, easy to move through, the museum grounds still awash with tourists running up the steps and posing as 'Rocky'. I love watching it from afar, all those tiny people with their arms raised victoriously. If I can cajole Chris into running with me, we're absolutely running to the museum to do just that, you have to at least once, right?

I've been living in various versions of this look for the past few days. Perfect vintage Levi's (a rarity to find in the thrift stores lately), the breeziest tank that I'll most definitely be buying multiples of (go up a size if you decide the same -- and I recommend it, they're under $10 and so soft), and the coziest sweater coat known to man. A winter uniform.

Get the look: Free People sweater jacket - on sale! // Aeropostale tank (c/o) // thrifted vintage jeans (similar) // vintage hat (similar) // MTNG boots c/o Lulu's (similar) // Self made crystal necklace (similar) // Black Crystals seas urchin necklace (c/o) // vintage bracelet