Something old, something new…

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, as the saying goes. It is tradition to have all four as you make your way down the aisle, but it is also a fun way to accessorize.

I think these little “somethings” are an opportunity to add some of the most special, heartfelt and creative finishing touches to your ensemble. However, they can often be overlooked amidst all the taffeta and tulle, and sometimes completely forgotten. I took a such joy in finding a unique way to satisfy each “something” that in some cases I wound up with two!

Something old.

This was one of my favorite categories. There is just so much you can do to have something old tucked away in your wedding day garb. They don’t give you all that tulle for nothing! I opted for using something old to create something new with the help of my good friend Nicole. My mother had so kindly given me her veil to use in whatever way I pleased. I, not so kindly, decided to chop it up, remove the gorgeous pearl beaded trim and Nicole was able to turn it into a beautiful belted creation.

I wore the beaded belt, in the upper right corner, down the aisle and the belt with the flower accent for the reception. (Photo from Paul Morse)

Something new

Something new is a pretty easy requirement to satisfy. Let’s start with a new dress, new shoes, potentially new jewelry, hopefully new underwear…you get the idea. I was extremely lucky to have a wonderful husband who gifted me with some seriously stunning pearl and diamond earrings. Something new, check!

(Photo from Paul Morse)

Something borrowed.

A few weeks ago, while I was on the topic of wedding shoes, I talked about the shoe clips that I was able to borrow from my mother in law. My cousin also let me borrow a strand of pearls that belonged to my Aunt who is no longer with us, which served as very special reminder of two people I love. Incidentally, my mother in law also gave me a set of her own pearls, which paired perfectly, allowing me to have something borrowed and something new.

I wore two pearl necklaces – one borrowed and one old – for my walk down the aisle. You can also get a better view of the belt which was made from my mom’s veil. (Photo courtesy of Paul Morse)

Something blue

This is where a bride can have the most fun. From painted finger nails to toe nails; from sashes to undergarments; and from flowers to hairpieces; blue can make its debut just about anywhere. Again, I opted for blue shoes but also borrowed (check, another borrowed item!) a bracelet from my mother with a small topaz stone. The possibilities are endless.

I loved the pop of blue in all of my photos. (Photo from Paul Morse)

These were my picks for my own something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. There are so many other creative ways to meet these traditional criteria. Have your bridesmaids sign the bottom of your shoes in blue or paint the bottom of your shoes blue. Tie a picture of your parents or grandparents on their wedding day to your bouquet for something old. Borrow a close friend or family member’s veil.

Whatever you choose, make sure all items are uniquely yours and make you feel special!

For all my married folk out there, what were your four “somethings”?

 
 

Like it. Love it. Buying it.

My brain is on booties. There are so many gorgeous pairs out there right now. Heeled, platformed, western, tied and two-toned. There are just too many to wear, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try!

As you might have guessed, this week’s like it, love it, buying it is all about the bootie.

Like it. 

Nine West shoes are always a good bargain. The price is usually right and the quality, in my experience, has always been good. The color is just the right shade of gray to be a perfect neutral and the heel height is moderate enough to be comfortable to wear all day.

Nine West Bleaker Bootie | $119

Love it. 

Glitter + a great camel colored bootie? I’m in heaven. I saw these in a magazine back in August but thought they might look cheap. Then I saw them in person and they are surprisingly high quality. A friend of mine purchased them and raves about them. At just over $50, you really can’t go wrong.

Wanted Dressage Bootie | $54.97 at DSW

Buying it.

Black and tan, one of my favorite color combos. These booties will go with everything in my wardrobe. I’m all about comfort, so a 2 inch heel is about as high as I’ll go for a more casual boot I plan to wear during the day. They are just a little bit country, little bit rock’n roll and a whole lotta perfect.

DV by Dolce Vita Strappy Two Tone Booties | $129 at South Moon Under
 
 

Fabulous Fall Scarves

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The fall chill hit DC this past week. I finally had to dust off my jackets and revisit my scarf selection to layer up for the brisker temperatures.

Scarves make me happy, which is precisely why I have about 25 of them. I can’t help myself, really. Scarves are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit, adding a daring pattern to an otherwise boring outfit or a pop of color to a decidedly drab look. In my mind, they are the perfect accessory; they look good on everyone, they add a touch of personality and they are just so darn easy to add to any look! Plus, they are fashionable and functional, keeping us comfy and cozy in even the coldest of temperatures.

Here are some scarves that have caught my eye so far this season. I am on scarf probation since I’ve collected far too many to wear in this lifetime, so somebody else go out and buy one, two or twenty for me so I can live vicariously!

1 – Zara Tie Print and Paisley Scarf | 2 – Gap Beacon Scarf | 3 – Gap Camo Neon-trim Scarf | 4 – South Moon Under Pretty Persuasions Reversible Scarf | 5 – Zara Leopard Print Scarf with Border | 6 – South Moon Under Karma Kreations Scarf

All of these options are between $20 – $50, with the majority of them priced at $30. I prefer longer, thicker scarves because they are warmer and are easier to style several different ways. Some of my favorite places for bargain scarves are Kohl’s, Target and Marshalls, but with the prices of the options above, you’re already getting a bargain!

 
 

Just a Little Friday Malarkey

I don’t like to talk about politics. Typically, politically driven conversations lead to people using loud voices, muttering insults under their breath and the use of a few too many four letter words, all in all, leaving me angry. Our political beliefs are shaped by our own individual experiences, so it is no surprise that we believe so strongly in them, whatever direction they may lean. But, we’re Americans, so long live free speech and difference of opinion.

While I largely steer clear of political conversations and certainly will never blog about my political beliefs, I can’t help but share a few of my unbaised thoughts on last night’s spectacle also known as the VP debate.

  • I used to think the term “my friend” was one of endearment. Thank you, Mr. Biden, for showing me it is obviously an expression of pure hatred.
  • Biden and Ryan have perfected the art of bitch fighting with rhetoric. The Real Housewives of New Jersey ain’t got nothing on these two. The ladies should take notes on “how to talk louder and interrupt more effectively” than the person next to you. (Oh – here’s an idea, how about we let one of them host the next Real Housewives Reunion? Andy Cohen, watch out!)
  • These to know how to bicker better than a couple married for 75 years. Speaking of 75 years, is that the age difference between these two candidates?
  • Biden is an angry, angry man. He yells. Frequently and with conviction. I was afraid his teeth were going to fly out of his mouth and hit Ryan in the eye. I don’t think they make denture cream strong enough to withstand 90 minutes of malarkey.
  • According to CNN, Ryan, you won by a fraction. You completely discredited your win with these photos, big guy. Oh, and according to Eva Longoria, you lost. Bad. It’s ok, just head to the nearest gym and sweat it out. Maybe next time you can request a feat of strength during the VP debate?

– Photo from Time Magazine

 
 

Perfect Puffer Vests

I love that quilted down vests are making a comeback. I remember owning one in green and blue from Gap a few years ago but then got rid of them fearing they looked too juvenile and a bit too puffy.

Leave it to J Crew to turn the puffer vest into the perfect preppy fall look. They first showed this bright pink quilted vest a few months ago and I had to resist every urge to run to the store and snag it, despite the fact that it was 90+ degrees outside.

Excursion Vest from J Crew | $110

Now, I love J Crew just as much as the next twenty-something preppy-wannabe, however, there are certain things worth spending $100+ on and there are certain things that just aren’t. A bright pink quilted down vest falls in the “are not” category for me. There are too many knock-offs out there that are just as cute but less than half the price. Case in point:

This Lands End option comes in 11 different colors and is a steal at just $35!

Lands End Diamond Quilted Down Vest | On sale for $34.97

This option from Gap is also a great one, although slight more expensive.

GapFit Puffer Vest | $69.95 *(plus 25% off of your order when you use the code GAPCHEER)

If you’re in the market for a puffer vest, think about your budget before you buy. If you’re in a cold weather climate, you may want to pay extra to make sure it will keep you warm on even the most frigid days. However, if you’re in a more mild climate and want one of these puffy puppies just for the style, you can find a cheaper option with just a little bit of searching.

Make sure that you opt for a version that has some tailoring or quilting to prevent from looking like the Michelin man. Sure, he’s cute and all, but fashion mogul he is not.

 
 

Bridesmaid Dress Basics

We’ve all been to a wedding or two where all we can do is stare at the bridesmaids with sympathy and wonder what the heck happened. Horrible bridesmaid fashion is a running joke, but when we see it in person, we all gasp and say under our breath, “I’ll never do that to MY bridesmaids!”

Yet, it Still. Keeps. Happening. So often, that there are entire websites devoted to showcasing these bridesmaid dress blunders.

I refuse to listen the age-old belief that people intentionally make their bridesmaids look bad so that they can look better; I won’t believe that anyone is that mean. I think that sometimes a well-intentioned bride can get a little too carried away with her vision of what she wants on her big day that she forgets the bridesmaids have to walk down an aisle in front of tons of people too.

Of course, sometimes brides just have terrible style. Blame the 80s. (Image from Bridesmaidtrade)

How can this be avoided? A few ideas:

  • Do enough research to know what color, length and material you want. Beyond this, let your bridesmaids weigh in with their opinions. What styles do they feel complement them the most and what styles do they feel downright uncomfortable wearing?
  • Ask at least a few, if not all, bridesmaids to come with you to try on dresses. Set proper expectations by sharing your wishes, wants and “deal breakers” with them and also letting them know you want their opinions but hope they will respect yours, too.
  • A bridal party is bound to include bridesmaids with several different heights, weights and body types. It can be very difficult to choose a dress that will look great on everyone. If you’re open to it, consider having different styles in the same color, or in complementary colors.
Amsale dresses in Blush. Amsale is a fantastic designer to choose if you’re looking to vary the bridesmaids styles and colors as all of the dresses are still cohesive.
Amsale again in different colors and styles. Photo from Style Me Pretty via Jamie Fender Photography
  • Let go of the whole “but they can wear it again” concept. When have you ever worn a bridesmaid dress outside of the celebration of wedded bliss? Never. Ever. Doesn’t happen. Get the notion out of your head now, realize that this triple digit expense is completely in your honor and save yourself the eye-rolls from the peanut gallery.
  • Now that you comprehend how much your bridesmaids are going to spend on YOUR day, ask them for a price range with which they are comfortable spending. As a bride, you are likely spending a small fortune on your wedding, but it isn’t fair to expect the same of your bridesmaids. Be conscious of what you are asking and if you fall in love with a dress that is simply too expensive, look for a cheaper alternative or consider paying for a portion of the dress as a gift to your lovely ladies (Want some more gift ideas?).
  • Don’t forget about the rest of the look – and the cost. Shoes, earrings, necklace, bracelet, etc. Accessorizing isn’t cheap and certain dresses require more than others. A halter gown lets you skip a necklace and opt for a bracelet and earrings. A strapless dress means they’ll likely need to spring for all three. A long dress lets you have a little more freedom with the shoes since they won’t be visible; let your bridesmaids wear shoes they already own to save them some cash.
  • Think beyond the traditional bridesmaid dress. There is no rule that you HAVE to pick a dress from a bridal designer and there are some pretty fabulous dresses out there. However, you do run the risk of the retailer selling out of a dress, so I’d recommend going this route with a smaller bridal party just in case. A friend of mine chose BCBG dresses for her bridesmaids and they were absolutely stunning. *This is the only case in which there is a small chance they may actually wear the dress again.
  • It is impossible to make everyone happy, but you can make everyone comfortable. Listen to your girls and do whatever you can to make them feel confident and fabulous. They’ve spent a ton of time supporting you, make sure you return the favor!

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

The detailing on this dress is darling. BHLDN Tracery Dress | on sale for $180 (originally $260)
Peplum flatters almost all body types. While peplum is a trend, this option is classic enough that it won’t lead to regrets in a few years. Alvina Valenta StyleAV9265
The one shouldered look is not for everyone, but this is a clean, classic option. BCBG MAXAZRIA Blue One Shoulder Dress | At Lord and Taylor for $298

Of course, I am partial to the bridesmaid dresses chosen for my own wedding. Strangely enough, this dress was picked by every single one of my seven bridesmaids. I was content to have several dress styles in the same color, but ended up with one dress as it was everyone’s favorite. It just so happened to look absolutely perfect on every single one of them!

Dresses from Jim Hjelm Spring 2011. Photo taken by Paul Morse. (A special thanks to these gorgeous ladies who are phenomenal.)

 
 

Like it. Love it. Buying it.

I’ve had a bit of retail ADD the past week. I’ve had my eye on tons of things, ranging from black riding boots, to leopard leggings to polka dot pants. Yes, I know I said my polka dot search was over. I lied. How can you ever have enough polka dots?

This week’s edition of like it, love it, buying it completely reflects my spastic shopping eye. Enjoy!

Like it.

Peplum is one of my all time favorite trends. Throw in some lace and I’m sold! The feminine shape of peplum tops create curves where there are none and flatters us curvy ladies in ways that boxy tops never can.

Laced Peplum Ponte Top | $34

Love it.

I love all statement jewelry but this piece has a little something special that kicks it up a notch. The bright blue will work in all seasons and is a flattering color for any skin tone  This beautiful bauble would look fabulous all gussied up with a holiday cocktail dress or dressed down with a flannel shirt and some boyfriend jeans. The triple digit price tag is all that is keeping me from buying it.

Marquess Fleur Necklace | $138

Buying it.

Yes, this is a shirt covered in french bulldogs. Yes, this is admittedly a weird selection, but I have a rather strong obsession for french bulldogs and the black and white print will work with nearly any color pant or skirt. A dash of quirkiness in your wardrobe gives it a little character!

Here & There Tee, Animals | $48
 
 

Drybar DC: The Answer for Amazing Hair

DC, it is time to put down the blow dryers, pack up the straighteners and say sayonara to those curling irons. Give your biceps a permanent vacation from the struggle of your hair routine. Let’s face it, no matter how many hours we spend on our hair, we will never achieve Blake Lively’s effortless-looking locks. But you know who can?

The stylists at Drybar. Some of you may be thinking, uhhh, Drybar? Isn’t that kind of an oxymoron – how can a bar be dry? However, as you might have guessed, it has nothing to do with booze and everything to do with hair. Ok, it may have something to do with booze since you can sip on a cocktail while getting beautified…

Drybar is the latest and greatest chain of salons dedicated to providing nothing but absolutely ah-maaaz-ing blowouts in just 30 minutes.  And, lucky us, they are set to open TWO DC-area locations, one in Georgetown and one in Bethesda, in just less than two weeks! Disclaimer: this is a judgement free zone. Please do not fight the urge to jump up and down uncontrollably or shriek with glee. 

Customers, affectionately referred to as barflies, shouldn’t expect a cut or color, rather, they can choose their ideal blowout from seven different styles, all creatively named after various cocktails. Looking for a sleek, straight style; loose, beachy waves; va-va-voom curls? For $40, your look is their command, just check out their menu.

The “Cosmo” – lots of loose curls (photo from Drybar’s website)

Drybar offers add-ons, such as a scalp massage or hair treatment, for an additional price and customers can expect to be in and out in 30 minutes, which is about half the time it takes me to blow dry my own hair. Drybar also offers updos for $70, kids blowouts for $25 and will travel to customers for $75.

Both the Bethesda and Georgetown locations are set to open on Friday, October 19th. Pre-book your appointments now – your hair will thank you!

Know before you go:

  • Make sure you look at the “menu” prior to your visit. We ladies can be fussy about our hair, so it is important to know exactly what to expect from say, the Manhattan vs. the Mai Tai.
  • Talk to your stylist. Despite popular belief, they can’t read your mind. If you don’t want to look too “done up” or perhaps you hate the look of stick straight hair, say so.
  • If you already know you’re going to be a frequent customer, be sure to ask about the bar tab and membership options. You can save up to $35 a month.
  • Brides and bridesmaids should seriously consider Drybar for wedding day styling. Have the stylists come to you or enjoy some pampering at the salon.
  • Drybar can also help you throw an awesome blow dry party. Who doesn’t want to be pampered and look gorgeous?
 
 

District Dining: BLT Steak

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In my mind, a special occasion calls for a special meal. I used to work around the corner from BLT Steak and would, on special occasions, allow myself to split an impossibly delicious $18 burger with my friend Kelly. Yes, it really was that good.

I taunted my husband with tales of truffle fries and Gruyere cheese popovers until he couldn’t stand it any longer,and so it was the restaurant of choice for our one year anniversary. I was so excited I could hardly contain myself, remembering the warm, cheesy, buttery goodness of the popovers and questioning how a burger could taste so good.

We were seated promptly for our 6:30 reservation on a Monday evening, which was not surprising considering we were one of 2 tables. Our waitress was wonderful and extremely knowledgeable; the service throughout the entire meal was impeccable and the General Managers came by our table several times just to make sure we were happy.

The meal began with bread, bread and more bread. First, we were treated to pate with crunchy country bread. Then came the popovers, oh the popovers! Served with sea salt and a touch of butter, these are hands down one of the best food items ever created. BLT provides the recipe and while I have made an excellent attempt at re-creation once or twice, they never taste quite as good as the ones coming out piping hot from BLT’s kitchen.

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Our entrees followed – the dry aged 20 oz bone-in NY strip for the hubby – filet mignon for me. Both were sensational. My filet came out under-cooked (I’d asked for medium well and it was still moo-ing), but the server was very apologetic and the general manager, Adam, brought it back cooked to perfection.

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The hubby’s gi-normous steak!

For sides, we chose the creamed spinach, stuffed mushroom caps and potato gratin. I know creamed spinach doesn’t sound all that appetizing, but wow, I could eat BLT’s version for every meal. The stuffed mushroom caps were good as well, but next time I would get another potato dish. Not that the potato gratin wasn’t yummy, we finished the whole thing; it’s just that everything else was on a completely different level of deliciousness.

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Just when we thought we’d died and gone to foodie heaven, not believing it was possible to fit another thing in our stomachs, they began describing the dessert menu. Holy sugar rush. The lemon cheesecake proved too tempting, so we broke down and ordered it, despite the fact that there was an entire tier of our year old wedding cake waiting at home for us. Yeah, we didn’t think it sounded too appetizing either.

Much to our surprise, we were presented with not one, but two desserts, simply because they thought it was necessary for us to try both! As we alternated between spoonfuls of caramelized lemon cheesecake drizzled with huckleberry sauce and peanut butter chocolate mousse, we both agreed we’d just enjoyed the best meal of our lives.

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Peanut Butter Chocolate Mousse with Banana Ice Cream
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Caramelized Lemon Cheesecake with Huckleberry Sorbet

Does Halloween count as a special occasion…because I seriously don’t know how long I can wait to go back.

 
 

Printed Pants

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As the weather gets brisk, I’m starting to eye my dresses and skirts with a bit of suspicion. They are my typical go-to and sure, most of them look just as good with tights. But, there are no ifs, ands or buts about it, I am going to have to pump up my pants selection if I want to stay warm this winter.

If the summer was all about colored pants, then the fall and winter are all about prints. Polka dots, paisleys, brocade, zebra, leopard, floral; you name it, it’s out there! I love that pants are making a comeback. Finally, we are able to have some fun with our fashion choices and toss the work staple of the black, brown and gray bootcut. We already know I am obsessed with polka dots of all kinds, but I’m dying to pick up a great pair of paisley or animal print pants. Some options I’m eyeing:

Polka dot, paisley and patterned pants

I am also contemplating this pair of Current/Elliotts. The print is unique and the rich hunter green and maroon tones are perfectly on trend for the fall season.

Current/Elliot Stiletto Jean in Hindu Print | $198.00

Spending $200 on a pair of pants I’ll likely only wear for a few seasons doesn’t sound like the best use of money, so I’m also checking out some budget options. Target, as usual, is right on trend with tons of denim options in prints and colors. This pair is less than $20!

Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Skinny Snake Print Denim | $18

Are you in the market for some printed pants, too? Be sure to check out Zara, H&M and Urban Outfitters for more fantastic options. Let me know what you find!

 
 

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