Category Archives: friday finds

friday finds (and important information!)

Happy Friday, friends! Though, for me, this won’t be much of a weekend, but rather Phase One of the big move. And to ~~clean out all my piles~~ celebrate, I’m selling off a few excellent pieces on eBay that might be of interest. Feel free to take a look – I’d so love for them to go to a good home!

And speaking of sales, there are some killer ones happening this weekend, both in Portland and farther afield.

* Mabel & Zora, one of my favorite girly Portland boutiques with the sweetest owners you’ll ever meet, is celebrating its 6th anniversary today with a flash sale on their website! Save 20% off all separates (which I think means anything but shoes, jewelry and dresses) from 6 pm to midnight tonight only (4.13) with code 6YEAR.

* My beloved Moulé is having an anniversary too! To celebrate a quarter century in business, you can take 30% off the entire store (that means their amazing jewelry and home collections too, neither of which ever go on sale!). The only catch is that you have to be in PDX – the sale’s in-store only. But if you’re here, it’s not to be missed.

* And on a slightly larger scale, Kate Spade‘s multi-annual friends & family event is going on this weekend. Take 25% off nearly everything (except home, stationery and watches) today and tomorrow with code FFSPR12.

And after all that, phew! We need some pretty pictures, don’t we?

These earrings came across my path as a “Best Bet” on NYMag’s blog a couple of weeks ago, and I’m still thinking about them. Quite possibly the perfect studs, don’t you think? Especially for under $100.

Do you know Hermione de Paula? I didn’t either…but now I’m completely in love. She manages to marry old-school tropical prints with mod digitized formats, and the result is, well, the best Hawaiian shirt you’ll ever find.

I am in a world of trouble. Rachel Comey has finally (finally!) opened an online store. Which means no more obsessive hunting through dozens of online mini-boutiques when I’m desperate for a new pair of ankle boots (hers are the very, very best). They even have my size! It spells danger, my friends…but oh, what lovely danger! Those tan perforated Hitch boots (right) are next on my list.

And speaking of newcomers to the online world, Club Monaco’s online store is finally here! Think Topshop, but a little easier to wear – hems are a little longer, styles are a bit more grown up, and looks aren’t all ripped from some other designer’s atelier. I’m so looking forward to taking advantage – particularly since they’re offering free shipping and free returns through the end of April!

And last but not least, my favorite Pin of the week! What can I say…I have bag storage on the brain. But can you blame me, now that this beauty has come to live with me?

{via design*sponge}

Phew! Okay, that’s it, friends. Have a fantastic weekend…pop by my place if you’re in Portland…and I’ll see you back here next week

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friday finds

It’s Friday and it’s a holiday weekend…is there anything better? I’m off to spend a few days with my family, so forgive me if I take a little extra time off next week. For now, I’ll leave you with enough goodies to keep you sated until I’m back.

First up, a winner for that wildly popular kate spade new york contest! You ladies love your bedding, that’s for sure. I’m always so thrilled when one of our giveaways is a hit like this, so thanks for that. Our winner is lucky number 7, Emily, who won with her Twitter entry @emma621. Congratulations, Emily!

Now, on to more pressing business. Like jewelry. Pretty, delicate, utterly-perfect-for-spring jewelry, to be precise. Amy Wing’s spring collection has me in palpitations, and not just because she’s a dear friend (and because her stunning lookbook was styled by our inimitable Trends Columnist). Particularly this Tiny Blossom lariat, which I’m envisioning as the perfect finishing touch for everything I want to wear all summer.

You may very well fall over when I show you this next find. It’s from Payless Shoes (I nearly fell over just typing that). But hey, even the bargain bins get it right sometimes, and this sweet strappy sandal is spot-on for summer. I love the grosgrain detail, the color-blocking, the woven wicker edging on the wedge (and a very reasonable 2″ wedge it is, by the way). In short, a very excellent summer shoe…for $39.

Remember those Athena Procopiou scarves with which I’ve been utterly obsessed this spring? Well, guess who has two thumbs and found one for half off? Yep…this guy! Best of all, I didn’t snag the only one for myself…get thee to Anthropologie stat, and nab yourself this beautiful thing, which is even more bold, bright and statement-making in person.

I’ve been seriously tempted by these Tribeca pants at StyleMint for the last few weeks, but was convinced I couldn’t pull them off as anything other than sweats. Then, I went to the hairdresser yesterday, and my stylist was wearing the cutest version of sweats ever: a black version of these pants, a cropped, elbow-length sweatshirt, and black suede ankle booties. Her hair was in a perfectly messy side braid, and the whole thing was so fantastic, I was distracted into getting my hair chopped about 3 inches shorter than I was expecting. If you’re feeling brave, this just may be worth a try.

Last but not least, I thought I’d start showing you my favorite thing I’ve pinned on Pinterest each week. Are you pinning yet? I’m itching to bust out a certain perfect black pencil skirt I bought last month, but it’s been too cold. This look might just be the solution!

{via Models Off Duty}

Have a fantastic holiday weekend, friends…don’t forget to splurge on a frosted sugar cookie (or two)!

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friday finds (sort of)

I have been a derelict of a blogger this week, friends – forgive me? The truth is, I’m house-hunting (which you’ll know all about if you’re hanging with me on Twitter), and it’s not something I do terribly well. I can shop for just about anything, but the hunt for a new home stresses me out beyond belief. Finding the right place, in the right location, with the right amenities (hello, closet space!)…and no return policy?? Too much pressure for this girl.

But yesterday, I gave myself permission to switch gears for a few minutes, and de-stress by fantasizing about one of my favorite splurges: handbags! I’m nearing the danger zone with my Chanel bag fund…in which the purchase is actually within reach, and I’m starting to have serious pangs of yuppie guilt about spending that much on something. That said, look how pretty that “something” is:

This is the new Quilted Boy Flap from Chanel’s latest accessories collection. It’s pretty fabulous, right? And, don’t worry, not as shiny in person.

But, just for the sake of argument, I could also have any one of these pretties:

YSL studded Muse Two / Proenza Schouler PS1 (crazy, I know, but this girl is inspiring me) / One more Muse Two

Could you just die for that studded YSL? My heart skips a beat every time I see it.

Anyway. I could even add on one of these:

Michael Kors Benbrooke (a total steal, by the way) / Mulberry Lily (also pretty amazing in bronze)

And, in some cases, still have enough for plane tickets to Maui. You see my dilemma.

So, talk to me, friends. What would you do? One massive splurge you’d have for a lifetime, or multiple lovelies to make you happy for at least the foreseeable future?

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friday finds: updated classics

Happy Friday, friends! I’m so glad you enjoyed my Bobbi Brown outing as much as I did…what a treat to see all of your responses! I’m getting the feeling you’d like a little more beauty news here, so I promise to do my best to deliver.

In the meantime, though, it’s Friday…and I am pretty in love with my list of finds this week. They’re all simple classics, just slightly updated…in other words, precisely my cup of tea. I could buy each and every one, and they’d feel perfectly at home in my closet.

Speaking of beauty buys, this pale gold Giorgio Armani eye pencil (brand spanking new for spring) has risen to the top of my favorite products of late. The subtle shimmer is perfect for day, and the color is light enough that absolutely no precision is required. In fact, I’ve been just drawing a thick-ish line and foregoing shadow altogether. It also does amazing things for green/hazel eyes.

I know, I know…more striped tees. I’m nearing total saturation too. But I’m kind of feeling the jolt of pink in this J.Crew colorblock stripe tee, and I’m envisioning it being every bit as useful as the traditional version, but certainly more interesting. The neon yellow version could be fun too, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Linen tees are an old favorite of mine. If you can find one that’s sufficiently nubby, they’re more breathable (and no more wrinkle-prone) than your favorite cotton version, but somehow totally office-appropriate. Madewell just launched a few new solids and this Cloudbreak print, with which I’m smitten.

I made a fatal wardrobe error last year, and purchased a “steal” when I should have gone for the “splurge”. My French Connection trench just isn’t pulling its weight, no matter how hard I try. Burberry was the obvious upgrade…until I spotted this Kate Spade Topliner Trench, from their Florence Broadhurst collection. Check out that lining! Who needs plaid? Most coveted item of spring, my friends.

Sometimes, I think people are shocked when they meet me on the street and hear I’m a fashion writer. My style is far less ambitious in real life than you might hope. These Anniel ballerina flats, for example, are as simple and unassuming as they come, but I have not a doubt I’d wear them to death.

Have a wonderful weekend, friends! I’ll be playing around with some Bobbi Brown goodies, indulging in the Sunday New York Times subscription my hubs surprised me with recently, and house-hunting (my least favorite kind of cardio). I hope you have something fun in store.

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friday finds: fashion week!

Friends, I’ve missed our Friday Finds fun, so I’m resurrecting it today. Which means I’m pre-empting Kim’s usual spot…so you’ll see her here on Monday instead. Rude, I know. Forgive me?

Every year when Fashion Week (or NYFW, as it’s called in the biz) rolls around, I get excited to see what’s in store. But mostly, I get incredibly jealous that I’m not there. Because, you know, the only thing standing between me and a front row seat at Marc Jacobs, Rachel Comey and Proenza Schouler is a plane ticket and a hotel room.

Since (sniff!) I’m not there, I thought I’d daydream a little about what I’d pack for my fantasy NYFW experience.

First, I’m going to need an amazing carry-on. This new tote from Hayden-Harnett stole my heart the moment I spotted it last week, and hasn’t let go. Navy and black used to scare me, but now it’s one of my favorite color combos – and this crazy-practical version happens to be reversible! Fashion Week or not, I may need this as a consolation prize.

Menswear flats are everywhere right now, and I’ve been dying to splurge on a pair of Dieppa Restrepo loafers. This metallic tasseled version would be just the thing to get Bill Cunningham to snap my pic, as I stylishly leap from one cab to another.

Of course, I’m going to need some pretty amazing apparel to compete with all of my cohorts on the front row. Fortunately, Lauren Santo Domingo has nothing on me. Sure, I could go with the obvious and dress in the designer whose show I’m seeing, but it’s infinitely cooler to show up in a piece from a up-and-coming label. This Jasper jacket from Veda isn’t available until next month, but I’m sure I could pull some strings and pick one up early, just like all the celebs do. It’s easy, right?

And really, it’s time to admit that those printed pants I’ve been coveting are totally necessary – at NYFW, it’s all about trends, after all. These from Derek Lam have been in every fashion magazine this season, so they’re sure to pave my way to success. Or, I could go the “understated chic French” route and opt for these Vanessa Bruno cropped silk trousers instead. I do love that colorblocking!

To go along with all this edgy apparel, I’ll need a little something extraordinary in the jewelry department. Yes, I’m thinking a piece from Iosselliani is just the thing to help me bump up the style quotient of my everyday attire. Add a white tee, leather jacket and a great boot, and really, I’m ready for just about anything.

Finally, I’m going to need an amazing bag to carry to all of these events. I’d be nothing at NYFW without at least one piece of Proenza to my name, but absolutely everyone will be toting the ubiquitous PS1. Instead, I’ll opt for this neon yellow clutch (which I’ll wear, ever so coolly, crossbody by day). This bag alone is sure to get me into Anna Wintour’s most exclusive fete.

Phew! I’m exhausted, friends. All that wistful shopping was too much….I think I need a nap. Especially since I’ll be heading to all those after-parties this week. Have an amazing weekend, and I’ll see you back here next week!

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friday finds: a new year!

Welcome to the first Friday Finds of the new year! I’ve been storing up some goodies to share, and am so glad we’re finally back to business as usual, so I can get to it.

My first shopping task every year is a new calendar, but it’s a tough call these days. So many artists put together renditions that are absolutely stunning, but then there’s the question of function, too. Decisions, decisions.

I could go purely for pretty…

Trellus 2012 calendar, by Michelle Armas

Paris 2012, Little Brown Pen

…or look for a little function. If you happen to be in Portland or Austin, these Big Weekend calendars are about the coolest thing ever. Every random festival, event or happening around town is included, so you’ll never miss the Tigard Balloon Festival again! (My hubs, as you’d imagine, is thrilled.)

I’m going to need a calendar to mark off the days if I indulge in a little pre-order of 3.1 Philip Lim’s pre-fall collection at Moda Operandi, as I am sorely tempted to do. Not only do you get to be first in line (almost as good as scoring it on sale), but you pay half up front and half when it delivers next summer (by which point, you’ve already forgotten about the first half you spent). Plus, look at the pretty!

Of course, darling Philip is a splurge, no matter how you slice it. So, I’ll temper the wallet pain with a little cheap thrill. I’ve had this Rugby Ralph Lauren fair isle cardi bookmarked for the longest time, and now it’s on sale for $139. The sun’s bound to come out eventually, but for now, I’d be happy to spend the rest of the winter snuggled up in this and a pair of skinny jeans.

Happy Friday, friends! Have a wonderful weekend, and I’ll see you back here next week.

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friday finds

Happy Friday, friends! I wish I could say the weekend held rest and relaxation for me, but no – it holds deadline-busting piles of work. All amazing opportunities, mind you…but work, nonetheless.

So, I’m more than ready for a little Friday Finds distraction to take me away from all that 9-to-5. How about you?

My scarf obsession is nothing new, but I’ve had the image of this beautiful Suno scarf open on my desktop all week. Give me a tissue-thin expanse of wool or a cloud print, and I’m yours. Combine the two, and I’m speechless. This beauty has made it to the top of my holiday wish list…if I don’t cave and buy it for myself first.

I’ve been watching Pan Am this season, and have only recently warmed to it (does anyone else think it was a slow starter?). But now, I’m hooked…by the fashions, naturally. I spotted someone wearing a cocktail ring over gloves the other night, and was smitten with the look. Imagine my surprise when Kate Spade had the same idea.

I’m feeling the value of simple, classic totes these days…I can’t explain it, but there we are. And so, I offer you a splurge (from Il Bisonte, whose bags are unbelievably well crafted):

…and a (sort-of) steal (from IB&B, who I don’t know, but lambskin is always a good thing):

I just discovered a little shop called Curator, carrying a few well-selected lines and some gorgeous house-designed pieces as well. This dramatic wool a-line coat is my current favorite – it’s a great nod to the cape trend without being as bulky and shapeless as capes tend to be. It’s also on sale, which never hurts. I wish I were snuggling in this right this second.

And last, but definitely not least, this list needs some color, don’t you think? Designer Jonathan Saunders recently collaborated with stationery legend Smythson to create a group of gorgeous new diary planners. Doesn’t it make you wish you still kept a paper calendar?

Have a wonderful weekend, friends…and if you’re out shopping the Nordstrom Half-Yearly sale, be sure to stop by the café for the best Caramel Apple Cider on the planet.

See you back here next week!

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friday finds

Happy Friday, everyone…what a week it’s been! I’ve hardly had time to breathe, let alone blog, but that hasn’t stopped me from amassing quite a list of Friday Finds. Even when I’m swimming in things to do, I always manage to find time to covet.

First, I’ve found a new love: BeautyAddicts’ “Double Deception” concealer. The right half is lighter and creamier, so it’s perfect for under the eyes, and the left side works wonders for the rest of your face. It’s all very Alice in Wonderland/magic caterpillar mushroom, but the results are flawless.

I’m obsessing a little over wanting a new pair of ankle boots for the fall. While I’m terrified of light-colored suede for a number of reasons (rain in Portland + denim = blue stripes all over my boots. Not cool.), these are calling to me. And, at $120, I can actually afford to listen.

Have you seen the latest goodies at J.Crew? I’m obsessed with a couple of things: specifically, this tweed jacket and that sequined top. Truthfully, I dream of being able to pull off sequins for day, and I’m thinking if ever there was a reasonable candidate, it’s this one.

And speaking of glitz and glam, I am fascinated by this ring. I can’t exactly figure out how it would look on, but how wrong could it be? I’m smitten.

Even though I’m mad as hell at Target over my whole Missoni debacle, I have to show you this Sonia Kashuk brush set. The brushes are great, the metallic tweed clutch is adorable (and actually cute enough to be carried as a clutch), and the whole thing is $25. I’d have bought the clutch alone for that price, so consider the brushes a highly useful bonus.