thefashionmagpie

Archive for the ‘Monograms’ Category

The Midas Touch

In Accessories, Glitter, Gold, Magpie Nest, Monograms on November 6, 2012 at 10:08 am

Glam gold accents at home are what this little Magpie is all about these days.  I’m seriously gaga (!) over this original art piece by Kiki Slaughter, a graduate of my own alma mater, good old UVA.  Is it not bananas?!  I need this hanging above the desk in my guest room.

I pretty much want everything this little lady creates, so do yourself a favor and check out her entire site.  Quel talent.  If it did find its way to my desk space, I’d update the entire work station with glam gold accents, like this pharmacy lamp (love, love this style — $175); this cool pebble tray, which reminds me of an oyster plate ($45); a brass pineapple-topped letter opener ($16); a metallic agenda ($36+ — monogrammable!); and a lucite tape dispenser ($24):

And maybe this lucite tray ($70) from Tilly Maison to store mini goodies, like this gilded stationery set from SugarPaper ($24 for set of 6)?

Maybe offset the magnificence of the Slaughter print with this cheeky, one-of-a-kind artwork in gold foil lettering ($35 — ah, I love Etsy):

And use these funky gold starbursts either on the wall, arranged artfully, or on top of stacks of books ($25-$35 depending on size)?

{Another unique wall-art or bookshelf idea?  These brass letters — $50 each.  You might pick your monogram or just the first initial of your first or last name.} I’m envisioning this wall-art above a pristine white sofette (love the nailhead detailing) topped with oversized gold-and-white striped pillows ($49 each), and one of those metallic-flecked cow-hide rugs to finish ($669):

Perhaps offset by this little golden stool ($129), topped with some glossy coffee table books and a funky objet, like this ceramic horse ($225 — although Etsy has TONS of affordable antique finds along these lines, like this chic little dalmatian, $35, or these ceramic horseheads, $30)

 

Or, for a festive tablescape, how about some brass candlestick holders ($26 for set of 2) with some gold-and-white tapers (get something similar from Ana Design)?

 

Very cool with personalized napkins ($98 for 100), some gold flatware (on sale for $23/setting!), and these darling footed dipping bowls ($44 for set of four — imagine filling them with yummy little snackskis):

Love this set-up paired with these gold-striped old fashioned glasses from Marc Blackwell (drool-worthy — $75):

In closing, I’ll continue yesterday’s Gifting Guru mini-post — and will try to keep this up through the holiday season to create a whole bunch of different gift ideas for you all.  All of these mini-gifts will be $50 or less.

Today’s is this adorbs Frenchie dish ($38) — I feel like it makes such a sweet, personal little gift wrapped up in pretty tissue or cellophane!

Precious?!

 

Tailgatin’

In Accessories, Americana, Denim, Monograms, Pop of Red, Shoes on October 9, 2012 at 9:16 am

So, confession: I hate football.  Well, hate is a little strong.  I am apathetic towards football.  It was a huge deal back at UVA, and it’s essentially Mr. Magpie’s third love in life {behind me and baseball…or maybe fourth, behind me, beer, and baseball}, so it appears that it’s going nowhere fast and I know I’d better just bite the bullet and accept its unwelcome seasonal presence in my life.  But.  The games are long, the rules are tedious, and it usually involves standing outside in cold weather for an afternoon watching a ball move a few yards per hour as I lose circulation in my toes. {And then there’s Fantasy Football, which has earned an entirely different level of notoriety in this little Magpie’s “burn book.”  But that’s another issue entirely.}  BUT.  The tailgates.  Now that’s a different ballgame.  And the further south you go, the more intense/religious people become about their tailgates.  I’ve heard it on good authority that it’s fairly common to attend the tailgate but not the game at certain Southern schools, and if that’s the case, I will happily relocate to the South during football season.  So, let’s see: my kind of tailgate look can pretty much be captured with shades ($150), cozy poncho sweater ($340), skinnies, and some OTK boots ($825 — loveeee the zipper up the back):

 

Keep your paws warm with some slick leather gloves from Tory Burch ($167):

 

Then, add a pop of color in the form of a structured cross-body (Opening Ceremony, $550) — or get the look for less with this Clare Vivier style.

If you’re a true baller, imagine setting up camp with these vintage folding leather chairs (OMG!) — or get the look for less with this style from UO:

 

Stow some warm blankets ($139) in the car…just in case you-know-who (me) gets cold + cranky:

A nice little bar spread featuring a Bloody Mary bar might be a nice touch — Charleston Mix bloody mary mix ($10); Ketel One vodka; pig napkins ($6); tipsy cocktail stirrers ($12):

 

Serve in shatter-proof acrylic monogrammed tumblers ($55 for set):

For snacks?  Arrange some traditional ham biscuits on top of a pig platter ($40):

Don’t forget the honey mustard ($6) and spreader ($60 for set of 4 — I own this set and use these little guys all the time!):

As a Wahoo, I’d keep some state pride going with classic Virginia peanuts from Feridies ($5.50 and up):

Stow it all in a large, personalized tote ($150):

Add some personalized koozies ($14 each) if you’re more into the brewskis:

 

With this sort of spread, even I can get into the rooting spirit!

 

Wrapped, Part I: Gifts for the Glamor Girl and the Book Worm

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Bombshell, Brights!, Gifts!, Intimates, Monograms, Sleepwear/Loungewear on November 28, 2011 at 1:04 pm

In this first installment of a multi-part “gifting guru” series, I am going to share some of my top picks for Christmas gifts for this season.  In today’s post, I geared my choices towards the Marilyns and Jackies in my life — i.e., the Glamor Girls and Book Worms.  I feel that a lot of my friends fall into one of the two categories.  In later posts, I’ll tackle gifts for other folks, like the Betty Crockers in your life :)

There are a lot of girly girls in my life, and I shopping for them.  Nothing more fun that receiving a glam little makeup palette ($40, Bobbi Brown) or a luxe lip color (Tom Ford is my new obsession — great colors, such luxe packaging — $45, Bergdorf’s) tucked into a cute little pouch ($160, Satine):

Or, for the sartorially-minded, check out these coffee table staples, which feature hundreds of Vogue covers from decades past ($91 apiece, Graphic Image):

And, get this — Graphic Image will personalize the book for you!  Love small, personal touches like that.  You’re entering insta-heirloom territory with a gift like that.  For a close girlfriend (don’t want to send the wrong message to someone…), I have been snapping up pretty little underthings left and right these days, and would absolutely love to give/receive one of these pretty little bralettes (Honeydew, $32, Madewell):

Would be cute rolled up and tied with a big satin ribbon, and then paired with a sleep mask ($25, Shopbop), some luxe body oil (OMG this stuff is amazing — I pop into the Blue Mercury on M St all the time to test it out, but can’t quite bite the bullet and fork over the cashiola to buy it for myself — $78, Blue Mercury):

 

 

In the same vein, consider gifting a silky robe (I love the leopard…surprise, surprise — $128, Victoria’s Secret — and think that Kim Kardashian was wearing it in last night’s debut of the new “Kim and Kourtney Take NY” series…I’m such a sucker for those reality shows):

Perfect packaged with a set of mini nail lacquers (Nars, $35, Beauty.com):

If your glamazon gal pal does lots of weekend traveling, I’ve had my eye on this well-priced carry-all for awhile (the perfect carry-on! — $53, ModCloth), which would be lovely on its own, or, if you’re a balla, with this cashmere travel set ($295, Sofia Cashmere):

 

Um, first of all, I pretty much DIE over these beautiful deco-style Penguin Classic hardcover versions of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s works ($25, Penguin Classics), which would be just gorgeous packaged in metallic tissue alongside this set of glam gold playing cards ($15, APlusRStore):

Lovely with a set of boxed stationery ($26, Kate Spade) and a ladylike pen (when I studied in France, all of my classmates used lovely, fountain writing implements — I immediately invested in a nicer pen, impressed by their attention to this smallscale extravagance — $15, Muji):

 

Or, if your bookworm is the e-reader type, consider offering her a snazzy iPad case ($50, Net-A-Porter) and a gift card to iBooks/iTunes:

 

Bundle it with some funky earbuds ($42, Shopbop) –

 

and maybe some eye-catching notebooks ($6 apiece, Kate’s Paperie) and a fun little pen ($18, Kate’s Paperie):

 

 

A snuggly reading throw would be a lovely addition to any bibliophile’s home ($60, Calypso), especially in a cheery color:

And, for fellow monogramaholics, consider offering a set of personalized book plates ($12.50 for 24, Tickled Pink Ink):

 

More to come later this week…but for now, enjoy CyberMonday!

Wicked Cold

In Accessories, Black, Fur, Monograms, Plaid, Shoes, Winter Weather on November 21, 2011 at 1:53 pm

Oh, hey, winter.  I was wondering when you’d make your way to D.C., and then you reared your bald, mean little face (?) last week, leaving my extremities numb and my nose running.  It’s OK, though — I had a friend tell me that a friend of hers recently moved from Arizona to Massachusetts, and, instead of whining about the frigid temps, the desert transplant said: “Well, I could get mad about it, but I might as well use it as an excuse to buy cute accessories.”  Love that ‘tude, and am going to channel it here with a few top picks for these frostier climes.  First, LOVE these buffalo-check Sperry all-weather boots ($98, Zappos), which I’d pair with a yummy knit sweater ($265, Reiss), a faux-fur vest (Rebecca Taylor, on sale for $175, TheOutnet), cool gal sunnies (these are Rachel Bilson’s pick, so I must own them — Carrera, $130, Piperlime), and skinnies (PS, a lot of you ask what brand I wear — I wear exclusively Paige or J. Brand, but my all-time favorites are the J. Brand 912 skinny…love):

 

I’d finish with one of these personalizable Rebecca Minkoff totes (love the black with the glossy gold imprint — $550, Rebecca Minkoff):

I’m also eying this fur-trimmed cape (yeah, yeah, yeah, it’s from Victoria’s Secret…ergo, not brand-desirable, but — it’s so cute! — $158, Victoria’s Secret), which I’d pair with black skinnies and, if — and only if — there were inclement weather, a pair of wellies (my much more fashionable sister and I always vent about people trying to make Wellies happen in normal weather…it’s dumb. — $125, Shopbop):

 

I’d wear the Wellies with the Wellie socks, which are supposed to be super snuggly and warm.  Plus, they have a leopard pair.  YES.  The look would be finished perfectly by this two-tone hobo ($348, ScoopNYC), which looks awesomely preppy and yet un-done/laidback at the same time:

Other winter weather musts?  This darling snowshoe scarf by Virginia Johnson — perfect quirky accent to a solid winter white coat or an oversized gray sweater ($198, PrettyMommy):

 

Or, how about warming freezing fingers with these rabbit-fur glovelettes (Jocelyn, $98, Intermix)?  Would love to see these puppies in my stocking.  Hint, hint.  I think they’d also be cute as a sort of cuff to an otherwise staid topper.

So.cute., especially with a bold red mani?!  Die.  Get outta here with your cozy cuteness.  While on the topic of furry cold weather gear, I love earmuffs — so, so much cuter/more ladylike than a hat, in my opinion.  My mother gave me a pair of gray rabbit fur earmuffs awhile ago that I live in come cold weather — very similar to these affordable Madewell ones ($39, Madewell) — but I’m also loving this pair of white ones from Karl Donoghue ($145, Net-A-Porter):

 

Either would  look darling with this fair-isle drape-neck cardigan ($38, Buckle), black skinnies, and some fierce booties (these ain’t even my style, but I am so in love with them, I can’t even contain my jealousy towards anyone who owns them — Burberry Porsum, $1,055, MyTheresa):

UGH those boots are awesome.  I’d finish with a croc-effect clutch (I can’t decide if I like the brown or black better! — Lodis, $198, Zappos):

Regardless of which color, I’d finish with a gold signet ring (check out this well-priced version at J. Crew! — $25, J. Crew — or get a personalized style from Jordann for $245 at Max&Chloe), a ladylike leather-strap watch (love this Michael Kors style! — $180, Shopbop), and some simple gold studs (Gorjana, $30, Revolve):

 

 

For more snuggly warmth, check out this vintage-styled knit scarf I spotted at H&M last week (fab stocking stuffer, and perfection for a ski weekend! — Bonus points for its SCALE; it’s big! — $17, H&M):

I kind of like the idea of sporting it with a cozy thermal ($45, J. Crew) layered beneath a snuggly puffer (Polo Ralph Lauren, $254, Farfetch — love those toggles, but J. Crew has this less expensive vest available in great colors; worth checking out):

I’d finish with these all-terrain, all-weather Sorels ($140, Zappos) during the day, but if I needed to dress it up a bit for a little afternoon coffee date or something, I’d reach for these amazing shearling-lined wedge booties from Giuseppe Zanotti — $850, Shopbop):

 

I’m also absolutely smitten with this wool plaid blanket coat from BB Dakota ($120, Shopbop — they are running low on sizes, so check here for more if you’re on the hunt!), which I’d style with these epic shades from Thierry Lasry ($375, Net-A-Porter — Olivia P. loves this line!), black skinnies and black booties on the fierce side of the scale (Michael Kors, on sale for $112, Nordstrom):

 

I’d add a little gloss to the look with this bomb Alexandra Satine tote (love those gleaming gold accents — $490, Alexandra Satine):

Finally, for more snuggly goodness, this cable-knit shawl-collar robe is at the top of my list ($178, Shopbop — YUMMY!) –

I’d bundle up with those, some snuggly, vintage-knit socks (love all of the Lisa B. styles, but especially the reindeer — $20, Lisa B.):

 

And, even while inside, I kind of want to keep my fingers toasty in these cozy knit gloves ($46, Hat Attack), which would coordinate perfectly with this oh-so-warm infinity scarf ($188, Steven Alan):

 

I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling ready to brave the winter weather!  BRING IT.

Borrowed from the Boys

In Accessories, Magpie Men, Monograms, Neutrals, Shoes, Tweed, Winter Weather, Work Wear on October 6, 2011 at 10:50 am

It’s fall.  It’s time to get serious about all things tweed, herringbone, and houndstooth — time to take a note from Godfather Ralphie (practically family in my Magpie nest — Mr. Magpie’s closet is about 99.9% stock with Ralph Lauren separates.   As I’ve mentioned previously, Mr. Magpie is the type of guy who wears a bow tie to bars and a polo shirt to bed).

I’m liking the idea of these houndstooth wool pants ($138, J. Crew) with a silken Equipment blouse ($208, Shopbop) and a statement necklace featuring heavy gold ($311, Boutique1):

I’d finish with these cap-toe pumps ($89, Zara) and this glossy, be-tasseled black carry-all ($495, Rebecca Minkoff):

And, in terms of accessories, I’d wear a borrowed-from-the-boys watch accented in tortoise ($46, ASOS — or get the name brand version from Michael Kors for $195) and a signet ring ($398, Sarah Chloe):

Dress up your technology in similar borrowed-from-the-boys detailing: consider a classic brown leather iPad case ($109, Lodis) and a textured-effect iPhone case ($40, Jack Spade):

 

I also love this fair-isle knit sweater dress (Sandro, $190, Place Des Tendances), and would probably wear it in these crisp fall days with a pair of riding boots (Tory Burch, $495, Nordstrom) and a herringbone “hacking jacket” atop it all (love the layering possibilities that cool weather brings…this style is by J. Crew, but they’ve sold out of this lovely heathered green, which is still available, oddly enough, for $200 at Net-A-Porter):

 

 

I’d finish with this nubby crossbody ($49, Zara):

Also loving the idea of this FANTASTIC YSL vintage skirt (only one available, and it’s reasonable — $134, Farfetch) paired with a crisp white, demi-sheer blouse ($208, Shopbop) and some eye-catching enorm-studs ($150, Noir):


I’d pair with ladylike pumps (still can’t get over these Givenchy beauties — $590, Net-A-Porter):

Finally, a chunky gold chain bracelet ($162, BaubleBar) –

– and a red/maroon cross-body bag (Marc Jacobs, $725, MyTheresa):

It would all look elegant, classic trench (Burberry is the high fashion standard, but can you believe how closely this Kai-Aakmann style comes to that high mark?!  and for 1/4 of the price?!  — $260, Satine Boutique):

Or, check out this mod-style shift dress ($189, Isabella Oliver), which would look lovely with a big ol statement necklace (Adam Lippes, on sale for $452, CoutureCandy), and a pair of houndstooth pumps ($118, Vince Camuto):

 

 

I like it with the West End Kennedy purse ($345, Kate Spade):

Top it all off with a gray boucle coat (I know — lots of texture here, but it all works together harmoniously — $415, Built By Wendy) and a pair of red leather gloves ($34, Debenhams):

 

Or, consider a classic blue oxford ($109, Steven Alan) tucked into a camel wool mini ($195, StyleBop) and topped with a BESPOKE blazer from Franklin & Gower (OMG, check it out, you can customize the color of the wool, the color of the lining, and the color of the accents — LOVE — $460, Franklin and Gower):

I’d finish with spectator-inspired tootsies (I featured these last week, and am still contemplating their purchase…Tracy Reese, $139, Endless):

 

And, finally, a tweeded clutch ($34, Aubin and Wills):

For accents, I suggest simple shiny gold circle studs ($200, Ylang23), a monogrammed necklace ($249, Sarah Chloe), and a chunky gold bracelet ($245, Dannijo):

 

 

 

And, of course, opt to finish the day off Mad Men style with a classic cocktail, poured from one of these awesome vintage decanters ($100 apiece, Chic Shop LA):

Bottoms up.

A Flannel Fall

In Americana, Black, Fierce, Fur, Jewelry, Leopard, Monograms, Neutrals, Shoes, Tweed, Winter Weather, Work Wear on September 20, 2011 at 11:13 am

OK, I’m officially done with summer and 100% locked into autumn.  I’ve been waltzing around in cozy knit ponchos, jeans, boots, and blazers, and am practically ecstatic about it.  (I was so.bored. of my summer wardrobe that I occasionally turned into a snippy little angerball when opening my closet.  I may have kicked one of my Jack Rogers in frustration/bored0m.  Mr. Magpie can attest to this and how unbecoming that behavior is, so: thanks, fall, for showing up.)  In addition to my obsession with all-things-animal for fall 2011 (as evidenced by the zoology lesson I shared with you in yesterday’s post), I’m seriously into textures, and especially into separates in the gray flannel family.  Cannot.get.enough.  Picture yourself swaddled (? awkward word for a grown woman?) in this belted dream of a coat (so 80s in all of the right ways with that boxy, dramatic neckline and the cropped sleeves — Calvin Klein, on sale for $384, TheOutnet):

Ugh, lovely.  I’d finish with a bow-front blouse (polka dot would be preferable, but a classic white style is endlessly useful — $9.95, H&M), black skinnies, and some “check me out” shoes, in the form of these TDF, rabbit-fur-lined booties by Vionnet (warm and stylish — YES. — $649, MyTheresa):


I’d finish with a pop o’ red in the form of the Edie purse in flame red ($238, J. Crew) and some ladylike gloves (Agent Provacateur, $500, Net-A-Porter):

Alternately, pair a chubby little sweater (Phillip Lim, $589, MyTheresa) with a structured mini (Maje, $240, Net-A-Porter) –


– and finish with some classy pointed-toe pumps (I kinda dig the entire Ivanka Trump collection…$119, Heels) and a leopard pouchette (Jerome Dreyfuss, $220, Shopbop):

 

The materials are so heavy that jewelry might look a little outrageous on top, so — I would probably only add a pair of simple studs ($110, BaubleBar), a ladylike watch ($54, ASOS), and a funky little ring (I’ve had my eye on this two-finger style for awhile…knuckle dusters are usually so aggressive and scary, but this glossy gold style caught my eye and could look interesting paired with luxe accessories and a ladylike get up — $52, Amazon):

 

Alternately, test out the inverse: a cozy turtleneck sweater ($55, J. Crew) and a heathered gray flannel skirt with a built-in camel waistband (Giambattista Valli, on sale for $453, TheOutnet), topped with a fur scarf (Adrienne Landau, $350, Bloomingdale’s):

Finish with some uber-high heels (ugh, d.i.e. over these Casadei tootsies — they’d go with everything…and also break your legs — $1,015, TheCorner) and a color-blocked tote ($425, DKNY):

You may have noticed that this is The Season of The Cape.  Test it out yourself with this foolproof J. Crew style in timeless gray flannel/camel leather trim ($395, J. Crew), blue skinnies, and some snakeskin flats ($118, Ann Taylor):

 

I’d finish with this envelope clutch ($37, ModCloth), and some classic jewelery pieces, including a monogrammed signet ring ($398, SarahChloe), an Hermes enamel bangle (want.so.bad. — $570, Hermes), an a studded bangle or two (NOIR, $75, Zappos):

 

 

For something a bit bolder for those of you fearless fashionistas out there, why not wear a ladylike printed blouse ($66, Debenhams) with a pair of flannel-effect shorts (Maje, $195, Net-A-Porter), some black tights, and some polished flats (Sam Edelman, $107, MyWardrobe)?


 

I’d top it all off with a camel cape ($292, JoanShepp) and an awesome felt-and-leather tote (I own this puppy in brown leather and get compliments on it every day of my life — $149, Zara):

 

Alternately, consider a white bow-front blouse ($16, H&M), a leopard scarf (YSL, $819, MyTheresa), and a gray flannel mini ($20, H&M):

I’d pair it with black tights and python-effect pumps (Pour La Victoire, $250, JoanShepp):

 

I’d update the look with this cape ($87, Dorothy Perkins) and a ladylike bag ($425, Rebecca Minkoff):

I’d pair with a wrap watch (Michael Kors, $225, Net-A-Porter), some simple gold studs ($45, Charm&Chain), and a chunky ring ($62, Noir):

Finally — a few top “separates” that can blend into a well-heeled fall wardrobe: a schoolboy blazer ($188, J. Crew)

Or maybe a felt/flannel shoe, like this bow-toe flat ($112, Heels) accompanied by a printed scarf ($245, Chan Luu) and a calf-hair tassel wallet ($195, Rag&Bone):

 

Or pair a leopard clutch ($890, Net-A-Porter) and test-drive this season’s epic shoewear style — the “sloafer” — in gray flannel ($119, Nordstrom):

And, finally, this awesome boxy cardi ($211, MyWardrobe) and an update on the classic wedge ($150, Ivanka Trump):

Woo!  I’m all into fall.

New Routines

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Brights!, Ikat, Monograms on July 20, 2011 at 10:30 am

UPDATE ON 7/29: Sorry for my silence — but I have an exciting (eee!) offer to make up for it :)   The amazingly generous folks over at Graphic Image are offering one lucky reader a free, PERSONALIZED (you know I love a monogram) weekly journal / datekeeper!  I have to gush about this because I purchased one last year (I picked the orange faux-croc covering with my initials in gold in the lower right hand corner) and absolutely cannot live without it.  (It also looks super chic.)  In order to win, please become a fan of TheFashionMagpie on Facebook and leave a comment below telling me what your favorite day of the year is.  {Mine: August 7.  My wedding anniversary.  Which is coming up in just a few little days!  WOO!}  A winner will be announced next Friday, August 5!  If you can’t wait to see if you’ve won or want to buy your own goodies from GraphicImage, use coupon code DATEBOOK to save 20% off your entire order.  Oh, and pleeeease with a cherry top like them on Facebook / follow them on Twitter.

Being organized is soooo hot right now.

*************

I turned 27 nearly a month ago, and it was the first birthday that I genuinely resisted.  It suddenly felt as though I wasn’t a spring chicken anymore — 27 sounds dangerously close to 30, i.e., teetering on the edge of what I would call “middle aged.”  (Perhaps that’s inaccurate; I hope I’m not ruffling any feathers out there, but it just does.)  21-23 were a blur of post-college exuberance; 24-26 were reserved for settling in and settling down; 27 is…middling.  27 year olds talk about mortgages, discuss “lateral career moves” with the know-how of an industry insider, and occasionally contemplate a purchase from Talbots.  I don’t want to think about what 30 entails at the moment, so we’ll leave it at that.  Not one to be a Debbie Downer, however, I’ve quickly turned that frown upside down (in part because 27 year olds need to worry about the wrinkles that frowns leave on the face) but looking at this as an opportunity to make some new routines, shake up the old traditions, and embrace 27 full-on.  Below, a list of “the new news” in my life:

1.  Beauty Regimen Overhaul

To begin with, I completely overhauled my beauty regimen, upgraded to some preventative products, and now actually look forward to washing my face in the morning.  (Weird, I know.)

First, I’ve thrown Proactiv to the curbside (I’d used it since high school and was terrified of abandoning it since I’ve had great skin for the last 15 years, but then I had an unpleasant customer service experience with them and decided I’d give it the boot…plus, it was never pretty to look at and it smelled weird) and invested in Laura Mercier’s oil-free foaming cleanser ($35, Laura Mercier), which I follow with perfecting water moisture mist ($38, Laura Mercier).  The combo is nothing short of refreshing and perfecting in these humid summer months.  The salesclerk at Blue Mercury was extremely convincing on the moisture mist, so I fell for it.  She also insisted that I follow the misting with a serum, and after initially balking at the price, I test-drove a few different samples I’d received with another cosmetic purchase from Neiman Marcus (another perk of turning 27 — now it’s anti-aging this, wrinkle decreaser that), and fell in.love. with Clarins’ Bright Plus HP Intensive Brightening Serum ($69, Sephora):

Hello, new best friend.  I layer it on top and then moisturize the eye area with Bobbi Brown’s eye cream ($45, Bobbi Brown) –

although my bestie gifted me this cooling eye roller by Clinique ($26, Sephora) and I keep it in my suitcase daily handbag, along with the other cosmetics I tote around on a daily basis in my makeup case ($24, Rubie Green), and I like to pop it out to quickly refresh myself along with a few of my favorite cheek stains by Tarte and Benefit (test drive three of my all-time Benefit favorites in this three-pack of minis — $15, Sephora):

And while I’ve long been a bright-red-nail gal and Essie enthusiast, I’ve also been revamping my mani routine with some new colors and new brands.  I’ve been playing around with super-pale-pink (almost white) opaques,  which look fantastic against a tan and really offset the ol’ blingeroo (I’ve been playing around with combinations of Essie’s Fiji, Limo-Scene, and Ballet Slippers), and SUPER brights from this awesome new line called Illamasqua (I like their hot pink “Collide,” their bright red “Alarm,” and their day-glo “Gamma” orange — $14/pop, Sephora):

 

 

 

 

2.  Talking Scents 

I’ve been a devotee of Tocca candles for some time (still love ‘em, especially the Florence scent), but I recently made the mistake of testing the waters with Diptyque, an uber-expensive line of Parisian scents and candles that all the celebs “swear by.”  Now I know why — the scents are just gorgeous.  They’re most famous for the “Baies” scent ($28 for mini-candle; $68 for full candle, Diptyque), and it is lovely: full of rose and black currant scents.  Pure sophistication.

Not sure which scent you like?  This trio of their most popular scents, in miniature form, would be a great “starter kit” (or a lovely gift for a dear friend moving into a new apartment — $84, Diptyque):

However, I forewent the candles and instead invested in a room spray in the Baies scent ($60, Barney’s), and am obsessed with it for a few reasons: you can control the concentration of the scent (I find that 2 sprays around the bedroom is more than ample), you can spruce up your sheets with it (a little spritz as I make the bed in the morning), and you can use it to scent your laundry (a few minutes before the drying cycle is done, 2-3 sprays will leave your clothes lightly scented in the loveliest of ways).  Obsessed.

3.   Running Me Ragged

I’ve been amping up my running routine, which is slightly odd given the phenomenal humidity and heat we’ve been experiencing here in the District.  (Yesterday’s run at 7:30 a.m. left me feeling like I was running through jell-o.)  However, some bright workout gear and a new playlist is enough to motivate me to get out there and work.it.out (bra — $22, Champion)

 

 

 

 

 

I like to layer with feather-weight racerback tanks — I scored a bunch of awesome bright colors from J. Crew earlier this season, but they only have drab colors left, IMHO, but have also had good luck with Splendid’s style ($44 apiece, Splendid):

On my playlist  (I run with my iPod shuffle — in.love. with it, since it clips right onto my waistband and is lightweight yet durable — $49, Apple)?  Check it — note it’s a lil heavy on the rock this time around, inspired by a recent viewing of “The Fighter.”  Obsessed with revisiting my Red Hot Chilli Peppers (loved them in the 90s — click to enlarge):

4.  Shelving Louis

I’ve been trying to give some of the shelved lovelies from my embarrassingly large handbag collection more time in the lime-light — for the last few years, I’ve been toting my Louis Vuitton Neverfull, which I love and adore because it fits EVERYTHING and pretty much goes with anything…and it reminds me that I completed my thesis on Ezra Pound.  (The Neverfull was a gift to myself upon completion.)  But lately I’ve been trying to showcase some of my closeted styles — even this Rebecca Minkoff cross-body style, which I was initially a little weary of wearing out, and that has never really seen the light of day:

I wore it in NYC last weekend while visiting my little sissy and kind of obsessed over it all weekend long.  Hello, new companion.  Get your own in this season’s cool color combo — taupe and flame red ($295, Rebecca Minkoff):

5.  Pack Rat

I’ve been trying to pack my lunch as much as possible the past few weeks — more control over what you’re eating, and way, way cheaper.  {More $$ for clothes.}  One thing that oddly makes lunch more fun to pack and eat is pretty packaging — enter Tili Bags ($7.49-$8.49 for a box), patterned Ziploc style baggies:

How darling?!  I’d imagine that kids would love this sort of thing.  Also great for packing liquids in suitcases with a little pizzazz.  The same concept goes for carrying coffee to-go — Mr. Magpie brews mine every morning for me.  I think one of these BRIGHT ikat-print thermoses ($15, SouthMoonUnder) would make it just a little more special:

You can pack it all in a BRIGHT “doggie bag” (insulated — $16, Scout):

6.  Organization Freak

If you’ve been reading Magpie for awhile, you know that I am obsessed with staying organized and compartmentalized.  AND (drumroll) just discovered that GRAPHIC IMAGE is having a “Christmas in July” sale TODAY (July 20th) — all products are 50% off (!!!!)  So obv I need to stock up on my organization tools — I’m already digging these personalizable pouches, which I’d use on trips for storing jewelry and then doubling as clutches ($48, on sale for $24):

 

A new iPad sleeve ($130, on sale for $65) would be a solid investment since I’m currently throwing mine in my handbag, uncovered, and hoping for the best…and, duh, I’d get it personalized as well:

 

 

I’m also inclined to snag a few gifts while the sale is going on — some of the items in their Bridal Collection are enticing for the many brides in my life.  {A cute little monogrammed envelope for storing pictures/wedding mementos?!  A bridal notebook?!  Yes, yes, and yes.}

I’m sure that there will more NEW ROUTINES this year, but those are the top contenders.  What new patterns are you starting in your life?!

Magpie Musts: The Pre-Summer Edition.

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Brights!, Fresh Combos, Intimates, Jewelry, Magpie Must, Monograms, Pop of Red, Shoes, Sleepwear/Loungewear, Sundresses on May 20, 2011 at 11:35 am

FIRST: I’m beyond delighted to announce the WINNER of the generous LittleBlackShop stationery giveaway: Anna! The touching story about your bestie overnighting you a thoughtful scrapbook so that you’d feel at home in your new Seattle digs left me teary-eyed.  I’ll email you to follow up on your win!  Yay!  So many of you shared such amazing stories — from engagement rings to college acceptance letters to care packages from thousands of miles away, y’all get a lot more exciting mail than I do!  Thanks to all of you that entered, and a BIG thank you to the amazing Jennifer of LittleBlackShop for the giveaway!  If you didn’t win but are still drooling over the goodies in her boutique, Jennifer has kindly extended a 20% discount to you through the end of June with coupon code: FASHION.

Second: realized that I haven’t run a MagpieMust edition in awhile, and that there are sosososo many things that I’m dying over at the moment.  So here, without further ado or fanfare, are the things I must have for this in-between season, or I might implode:

1.  Cat-Eye Sunnies. If you’ve been reading this bloglet for awhile, you will know that I’ve been on a quest for a new pair of shades for awhile now.  I tried the Karen Walker Deep Freeze Sunnies that everyone and her mother was wearing, but they showed up and made my face look oddly shrunken.  Now, I like a pair of oversized sunnies, but the proportions of these were all wrong.  I then contemplated a new pair of aviators to replace the drugstore ones I picked up at the beach a few years back.  But I was sort of yawning about it and dragging my feet on placing the order, so I went back to the drawing board.  Now I know what I need: cat-eyes.  While I do seriously adore the Thierry Lasry pair that Olivia Palermo sports, this uh-may-ZING style from Elizabeth&James ($155, Shopbop) is far more wallet-friendly and just as chic:

2.  Bold Summer Jewelry. I’m sort of getting into this space where I like the unexpected mix of craft-looking jewelry and polished separates, i.e. a conservative black shift dress with enormous tribal-style beaded jewelry.  This BaoBao necklace ($199, BaoBao) is first on my list, and this Roberta Chiarella find comes in a close second ($128, Max and Chloe):

3.  Anything and everything flame red. I’ve been into this color for the past year straight, and cannot get over it.  I’ll take this crossbody ($238, J. Crew) and these strappy tootsies for starters (ToryBurch, $350, FootCandyShoes) to begin:

But would love to pair with these Suzanna Dai danglers ($190, SuzannaDai), which coordinate perfectly with my favorite cheek stain du jour, Tarte’s “Tipsy” ($30, Tarte):

Why not spice things up with flame red undergarments (Deborah Marquit, $195 for top, $110 for bottom — Net-A-Porter) beneath an OLE-ready dress (love.this. in a serious kind of way — Milly, $240, Shopbop):

Perfect with those GORGEOUS espadrille wedges by MyMu that I’ve been lusting after all season (seriously, I need you in my closet — $298, MyMu):

4. Speaking of drool-worthy shoes, I need some neon-accented flateroos. I fell in love with the Kate Spade Tipsy in hot pink, but it appears to be sold out everywhere.  I’ve only been able to find the style in the orangey-melon color ($198, FootCandyShoes), and am seriously considering snapping ‘em up.

I loooove the way the neutral wheat looks against the pop-o-bright.  Delightful.  If those don’t work out, these J. Crew “CeCes” ($128) come in next on the list, although I’ve found that J. Crew shoes are fairly uncomfortable in past years, SO I’m a little scurrred.

5. Cambridge Satchel Company Messenger. I don’t know what happened, but suddenly all of my favorite fashionistas are wearing these messengers ($160 and up), and I’m kind of jealous.  They can even emboss your initials on the side!

Check it out: not only was Hanneli Mustaparta seen sporting a neon version –

{image via Vogue}

But Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere, Carolina Engman of FashionSquad, who appears to own the bag in multiples (as shown here and here, among other places), and Taylor of Sterling Style:

{images from Cupcakes and Cashmere}

{images from TheFashionSquad}

 

{image from SterlingStyle}

I like the smallest size (11″) — the larger ones look a little too…large.  But I must have.  And soon.  With my initials on the side.  Done.

6.Home Spa Day. It’s been, like, a bajillion and three years since I unwound my tense little self at the spa.  I don’t think a day of self-pampering is in the cards at the moment — hard to justify when Mr. Magpie hasn’t yet found out how much I spent on his graduation party (he graduates from his MBA program in just a few short hours!), and I’m not looking forward to breaking the news to him.  (But he deserves it!)  So instead I’ll create the spa day at home.  I’ll begin by sleeping in (ha, never happens — when I turned 26, I suddenly found it impossible to sleep in past 8 a.m., and I’ve now begun an alarming trend where I’ll occasionally rise with the sun at, like, 5 am, to get my day started…sick).  Maybe blocking out the sun with this cute little eye mask ($24.50, MaryGreen — the designer behind the famous sleep mask that Audrey Hepburn wore in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”…but that mask terrifies me a little bit…):

And I’ll canoodle in my bed with one of these adorable printed robes ($95, JohnRobshaw):

 

 

 

After lighting my favorite candle, Tocca’s Florence ($36, Tocca) –

I’d begin with some skin treatments — and I just so happened to rediscover two of my favorite drugstore finds from middle school recently.  Did any else obsess over Mint Julep’s face mask and St. Ives’ apricot scrub?!  Am totally re-obsessed with both.  Brings me back to middle school sleepovers, and the prices are hard to beat (St. Ives, $3.99, Drugstore and Mint Julep,$4.19, Drugstore.com) –

– and then I’d exfoliate the lips (need.this — $22, Fresh) and slather on my other obsession of the year: Laura Mercier’s Mega-Moisturizer ($50, LauraMercier).  This magical serum came highly recommended by a girlfriend of mine who literally has porcelain skin.  So I followed suit and haven’t looked back once.

Finally, I’d finish by giving myself my own “spa” mani-pedi.  I’ve gotten good at freshening up the nails when in a pinch.  I begin with a cuticle oil treatment ($15, ButterLondon), and then follow with a nail strengthener as the base coat ($9.50, Nailtiques):

Then two coats of polish (I’m loving these bright colors for summer by Deborah Lippmann — $16, bottle, DeborahLippmann) –

Follow by a quick-dry top coat (SecheVite, $9, Ulta):

7.  Perfect Perforated Pumps. I saw these Miu-Miu peep-toes ($650, Net-A-Porter) awhile ago, and pouted at the price tag while still ogling over them.

Something about the design just spoke to me as fresh — sort of safari-looking in a way.  They add some edge and interest.  And then I found their cheaper doppelganger over at FootCandyShoes ($195, FootCandyShoes) and was beyond.thrilled.

I can’t decide if I like the fuschia or the nude better — but both would be happy new solemates.  {As an aside, just realized that this entire post has been largely about footwear.  Woopsiedoodle.}  If you’re in the market for a flat version of the above, I’m swooning over these perforated Lanvins ($565, ShopZoe), and their less expensive counterpart from J. Crew ($148, J. Crew):

 

8.  Vinho Verde. Have you had this varietal of wine?!  It’s the perfect easy-drinking summer wine.  It’s very light and tart — almost grapefruity — and has a slight effervescence (not like champagne — more like seltzer water) that is uber-palatable in the summer.  My favorite comes from the label Famega — it’s inexpensive and beyond delightful.

They sell it at my favorite wine shop, BestCellars, but I’ve also seen it at Wegman’s.  If you can’t find this exact bottle, try any label’s version of VinhoVerde — I’ve been consistently impressed.

That’s all she wrote for now!  Happy weekend!

 

Smooth Sailing

In Americana, Brights!, Fresh Combos, Jewelry, Monograms, Nautical, Pop of Red, Shoes, Sundresses, White on April 21, 2011 at 10:36 am

UPDATE!  Special GIVEAWAY!  I just discovered last week that one of my lovely readers has designed a line of oh-so-pretty, be-flowered belts and bridal accessories under the label LuxeLucy, and that she is willing to give one away to one of you lucky readers!  All you need to do is leave a comment telling me which style (the Aphrodite, the Mariah, the Kitty, or the Rose) is your favorite by this Thursday, 4/28!  They would be a gorgeous way of individualizing a bridesmaid dress…or a welcome Mother’s Day gift…or a happy addition to your own little magpie closet.

Side note: Carolyn, the brainchild behind the line, worked as a portfolio accountant for a hedge fund before she bravely left the banking world to pursue her own creative aspirations.  Love that story!  Show your support by liking her line on Facebook!  And if any of you have other cool projects and lines you’re proud of, I’d love to hear about them!

A) Did anyone else love David Gray in high school?  I was a big fan and now grimace at the thought of myself trucking around NW D.C. in the fam SUV thinking that I was super introspective and in tune with my emotions.  Anyway.  Came across his “Sail Away” song the other day and it totally took me to another era, and also — oddly — made me think about sailing on a warm summer day, as Mr. Magpie and I have done a number of times over the past few years (in Annapolis, a convenient 45-60 min drive away from home).

B)  This thought process also brought me to remember that my bestie’s boyf just bought a sailboat, and that it is currently harbored on the Waterfront, just waiting for the first signs of spring/summer to be taken out for a spin.  Woohoo for friends with boats!

C) I have a serrrrious girl crush (grush?) on Penelope Cruz, and I happened to come across this nautical-styled snaperoo while wasting hours of my life on Tumblr the other day:

UMMM instantly want my hair to grow another 6″ and am loving the Bardot vibe here.

D)  Also grushing on the styling in this shot (also discovered on Tumblr; no idea where it’s originally from — the J. Crizzle Dizzle?  Nah, those tootsies are a serious business, and I don’t think Jenna Lyons is edgy enough to go ultra-platform on us):

In short, 4,389 signs are telling me its time to tune into nautical styling.  (Would not call it a trend — the preppy boat-loving look has been around for-ev-ah.)  I hesitated on this one since…well, the nautical theme can be sooo overdone and lame.  Like these shorts — ummm, a little much, thankyouverymuch.  Maybe without the “hammer me over the head” gold buttons or maybe with the gold buttons but without the stripes/all in navy…Also: in my opinion, you shouldn’t wear more than one or two “boaty” elements per day/look, or you’ll look like you’re dressing up as a Olive Oil / a sailor’s wife.  I don’t like anything that looks too “costume” or too “matchy-mcmatcherson.”  So let’s see.  What do I like?  First: stripes of all…er, stripes.  Love a lived-in striped shirt, and have been especially digging the way that a blue/gray stripe (like the distressed top below — sorry, Mama Magpie, I know you’re hating on the raggedy look — Adam, $185, Net-A-Porter) looks against an olive color ($59, H&M).  Would wear this in a flash this summer:

I’d finish with some cherry patent flats ($119, PrettyBallerinas) and this OMG-I-die-over-it Alexander Wang bag (could never get behind the nubby-bottomed ones that have been all the rage for the past year or so, even though my sissie, who worked for the young designer, owns one and rocks it like it’s nobody’s business…I’m much more into this style; $895, EditNY):

If I’m going for the striped dress, I like something a little loose and drapey, preferably with a defined waist — a la this number ($169, Built By Wendy), which I’d pair with this wood bead necklace ($178, AmandaPearl):

 

I’d wear this in the rainy interim spring-to-summer months with some classed-up rainboots ($195, Loeffler Randall) and a durable tote (Furla, $545, Nordstrom):

 

And even though it doesn’t have my “preferred” waist definition, this Marc by Marc Jacobs is just.perfect for the season (man, ol’ Marc-y boy was on point this season, eh?  I’ve featured a number of his pieces in my recent posts — $498, Shopbop):

 

 

I’d wear with super-high wedges (Pour La Victoire, $270, Shopbop) and a brown leather clutch (Rochas, $985, Barney’s):

I’ve also been gleefully pairing navy with kelly green these days, all atwitter with the boldness of the fresh combo.  I might pair an easy-on little day dress ($94, Petit Bateau) with some aviators and a long, monogrammed disc necklace ($239, SarahChloe):

And then finish with a bold green bag ($395, Foley & Corinna) and some of these funky little flats (I saw Rachel Bilson sporting a similar style and thought she looked darling — $90, Seychelles):

 

I’m also loving the idea of striped, demi-cropped top ($135, ShopBird) with a bold necklace ($40, BaubleBar) and a crisp navy skirt (Rachel Comey, on sale for $89, ShopBird):

 

I’d finish with those ba.na.nas wedges I was obsessing over that Carolina Engman owns ($89, Zara) and a slouchy leather bag ($575, Orla Kiely):


I’m also into the subtly nautical — a breezy white dress ($70, Aritizia) “sailorized” by a red bauble necklace ($98, Oliphant) and a pair of red canvas espadrilles –

 

Are the wedges below ($278, MyMu) not BEYOND?!  LOVE.  OMG.  Would look phenom with this little gold pouchette ($1,295, Barney’s):

 

Happy Thursday!  As an aside, I’ve been getting lots of comments about the Napa wedding I featured in the {magpie covets} section yesterday.  If you missed it, check.it.out.  It’s seriously one of the most gorgeous weddings I’ve ever seen photographed.

The Stuff of Dreams

In Accessories, Dream Wear, Fur, Glitter, Jewelry, Monograms, Romantic, Shoes on February 4, 2011 at 1:08 pm

I feature a lot of high-end merchandise, and many of you have asked me to a) feature more affordable products from time to time; b) run occasional posts that only showcase items that ring in at under $100; or c) divulge my secrets in procuring these high-end styles.  What are your thoughts?  Tell me what you’d like to see / hear!

From my perspective, this little blog has always been un espece pour vous fait rever, a turn of phrase I picked up while living in France that roughly translates as — “a little space that makes you dream.”  Certain phrases and coinings resonate with particular power for some unknown, mysterious reason — we pick them up, adopt them as our own — and this one percolated my consciousness and settled in for the long haul.  As I first developed this little bloggeroo, the phrase recurred to me time and time again; it seemed like an apt credo for the sort of fashion lust that has shaped it, and that continues to fuel it.  This explains, to some extent, the focus on higher-end “dream” picks.  And today, I’m going to throw caution to the wind and feature some of the things that really make my heart sing, with no attention to price tag or practicality level.

1.   M. Patmos Short-Sleeved Fur Jacket {$2,295}

Fur jacket.  Short sleeves.  Never the twain shall meet.  Until this borderline obnoxiously impractical jacket weaseled its way onto my radar, and now I can’t stop thinking about it.  It’s almost custom-made for the type of woman who need only prance from her chauffeured town car to the latest event — but ain’t.it.gorgeous?  (And on second thought, one could make it work by layering a longer-sleeved slim-fit tissue tee / sweater beneath it and pairing with jeans and killer boots.  Note how I’m constantly trying to rationalize my way into a purchase.)  Drop this month’s rent check at Barney’s if you need it.

2.  Lanvin Patent Wedge Lace Up {$1,280}

Ummm, I’m fairly certain that only the most talented of heel-walkers could get away with these vertiginous beauties.  You’d need uber-skinny legs and some serious lower body strength to boot.  {I feel like I’d be dragging my feet around in them…they look heavy.}  But they just kill with their ballerina-meets-tough-girl vibe.  And imagine the wonders they’d work on your legs {you’d essentially be walking around en pointe all day}.  D.i.e.  And then buy them at famed NYC-based boutique Kirna Zabete.

3.  Celine Hand Bag {Price Upon Request}

You know you’re in deep water when the site / magazines read: “Price Upon Request.”  You also know that I’ve featured this bag too, too many times to not have it reappear on this list.  But OMG I would so die for this tote — it’s literally what all.the.cool.girls.are.wearing.  Noticeably high end without being label-plastered.  Practical.  And just a darn pretty bag.

4.  Honeysuckle Pink Nina Ricci Dress {$1,716}

Oh, my.  Hello, lover.  I’m ob.sessed. with the hue, the cut, the style, the fun factor.  Everything about this dress is smile-inducing.  Snag your own for a cool $2K (just about) at MyTheresa.  {Gulp.}

5.  Vinta-Bling.  {Don’t Ask the Price}

This goes without saying, but who doesn’t want an insane box o’ vintage trinkets?!  Lately, I’ve been digging around some of my favorite online vintage / consignment outposts, and just drooling my afternoons away.  I mean.  These House of Lavande pieces are just screaming my name {the first set pictured below, $548, are by Mariam Haskell; the second, worn by Jessica Biel (!), cost $428}:

Or how about this mega-wattage jewel-encrusted elephant bangle?  Only a casual $61K at 1stDibs.  {Eyes popping out of head.}

6.  Rachel Gilbert Degrade Evening Gown {$1,435}

Where would I ever wear this?!  Tragically, there just aren’t enough royal fairy-tale balls in my life to accommodate such a wardrobe centerpiece.  But wouldn’t you just kill to try it on?  {If you lead a more charmed life than I, you can find this at Net-A-Porter…I’ll envy you forever.}

7.  Christian Louboutin Pigalle Glittered Pumps {$595}

So this one isn’t totally out of the realm of reality, but I’d have to do some serious justification on its behalf.  It’s one thing to own a pair of black Louboutin pumps that you can wear everywhere.  {As I do with mine.  Literally.everywhere.  To work, out at night, to the dentist’s, to bed.  An LRR for sure.}  It’s an entirely different ballgame to buy a glittered, Vegas-appropriate variation.  {Cough, cough — I did buy the gold version of these last year for my bachelorette party, and then nearly sobbed when they arrived, looking perfect and oh-so-lovely, only to find that the smallest size they carry is a 35 and in this style, it is just too big for my freakishly small feet.  Ergo, these are the SERIOUS stuff of dreams.}

8.  Old School Luggage {Prices Vary}

I’d love to travel in style with some bespoke Norton MacCullough & Locke pieces.  You’d seriously stop traffic with this stuff.  It scares me to think how much a bespoke luggage set would cost from these high-end purveyors…

Can’t be any worse than Goyard or Louis V, right?  I’d take any of them.

9.  Hermes Enamel Bangles {$460-$660 apiece}

My Magpie mother and I obsess over these.  She found one that she fell in love in the prettiest peach color with while we were in Dijon, France, but decided against buying it and has regretted it every day since.  Literally.  I’ve never heard the end of this.  I wouldn’t mind a stack of them myself.  Check out the entire selection here.

10.  Hermes H Hour Watch {starts at $1,600}

Speaking of Hermes, I’ll also take the H Hour watch while we’re at it.  Great.  Thanks.

Um, I could go on forever.  I literally had a list of 3,234 other things I considered featuring, including Cutler & Gross cat-eye shades, a Jason Wu bow-front blouse, those Valentino studded kitten heels that were all over the place last season, a Celine classic flap bag, any of the floaty J. Mendel dresses that paraded down the S/S ’11 runway, etc, etc…I could go on and on until the cows come home.  {Que?  Never got that phrase.}  At any rate — what are your dream items?!  What makes your heart sing?!

I know what will make ONE of your hearts sing: the giveaway winner has been announced!  Chrissie Bortner will be receiving the set of Pretty Printing “Red Sole” note cards featured in my giveaway!  Chrissie, shoot me an email at jennifer@thefashionmagpie.com so we can send these amazing cards your way, courtesy of Pretty Printing.

Chrissie was randomly selected, but I love her no-nonsense response to where she’d wear these tootsies: “Everyday to work.”  YEP.

Stocking Up: The Magpie Men Edition

In Accessories, Gifts!, Magpie Men, Monograms, Neutrals, Plaid, Shoes, Tweed, Winter Weather on November 30, 2010 at 11:01 am

When I was younger, the goodies Santa left in our stockings were just as exciting as the presents left at the foot of the tree.  We’d find all kinds of exciting treats: jewelry, headbands, makeup, stationery, gift cards.  Santa always made the holidays that much more special by leaving us some big ticket items in our stockings, and it’s a tradition I plan to carry on in my own little nest.   Because Mr. Magpie and I are planning on scaling back on gifts this Christmas  (as Mr. Magpie put it, “Don’t you think this year was extravagant enough?” — and he’s right: a dramatic engagement at a gorgeous Virginia hotel — Keswick, how I love you; plenty of travel; all the many wedding-related purchases and festivities leading up to the big day; the showering of gifts from friends and family; the Big Day itself; bride and groom gifts; and then the decadent honeymoon at Turtle Inn in Placencia, Belize.  Yes, this past year has been over.the.top.), I’m thinking that in lieu of big presents, I’ll opt for the perfect stocking, filled with all of Mr. Magpie’s favorite things (and a few bonuses).  It occurred to me that this might be a novel approach to gift-giving this holiday season in a more general sense — something a little different, and a bit more inventive.  Test drive for yourself with some of the ideas that have been stewing around in my little Magpie mind for awhile now:

For the Foodie…

Mr. Magpie is a serious food-lover and an accomplished cook to boot.  I’ll begin with some of these cheerily-colored Kuhn Rikon knives.  We already own (and dearly love) a few of their paring knives — they have unique carbon steel blades that quite frankly never dull, they come in a rainbow of peppy shades, and they are shockingly affordable ($10 a pop, Kuhn Rikon):

Mr. Magpie is also a coffee snob.  Folgers just won’t do — we tend to score our beans at Baked & Wired in Georgetown (he grinds ‘em every morning and prepares the perfect cup for me), which carries Intelligentsia and Stumptown coffee.  A nice bag of the good stuff would be a welcome addition to the Christmas lode, although his parents rave about Illy, so I might just have to upgrade for the holidays ($28 for 2 cans, Illy):

And although we already have quite the spice collection (I mean — they pretty much have taken over the five shelves that constitute our “pantry cabinet”), a couple of well-selected newbies wouldn’t hurt, especially from a higher-end provider like Penzey’s or Dean & Deluca (as shown below — $55 for set of 9, Dean and Deluca):

I like that the French spice set above comes in a pretty little silver box — I’d just tie it up with gold and silver curling ribbon and tuck it in at the stocking top!  Spices are the perfect accompaniment to a gift of upscale grilling implements — I read about this Le Prince Jardinier brand awhile ago, and have always thought Mr. Magpie would adore them ($126 for set, Artedona):

Just thinking about all the yummy things he’ll make me on the grill leaves my stomach grumbling — and also makes me want to treat him to some specialty meats, ordered from a high-end, organic butcher like Niman Ranch (below; Ina Garten of the Barefoot Contessa swears by their bacon — and I’ve seen it carried relatively inexpensively at Trader Joe’s, at around $4 for 12 ozs), Surry Farms (their “Surryano Ham” is supposed to be ri.dic.u.lous and they are local Virginians!  Love!), or Vanderose Farms (Williams Sonoma carries their hams — and for a pretty penny: $169 for 18-21 lbs!):


We’ve recently gotten a little picky about our olive oils.  Our top choice is Frantoia’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil ($17.99, Amazon), which we first discovered at our favorite restaurant and fish market, Black Salt — it is fruity and oh-so-flavorful, and would be a happy surprise for Mr. Magpie, who insists that we not get too accustomed to the liquid gold, for fear of running our wallets empty on such unnecessary extravagances.

(We conserve the pricier olive oils for salad dressings, drizzles, etc — it would be wasteful to really cook with it!  For everyday cooking, we use Whole Foods’ house brand, which is remarkably well-priced and far more flavorful than any of the run-of-the-mill brands, like Pompeii.)  Shifting gears entirely, Mr. Magpie has a major sweet tooth, and though he has a soft spot for my Linzer Cookies (well…Martha Stewart’s Linzer Cookies) and chocolatey treats like SmittenKitchen’s Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Squares (which disappeared with alarming alacrity when I made them a few weeks ago for a dinner party), I’m sure he’ll find room in his stomach for these unbelievable peppermint pretzel slims that I just discovered at Trader Joe’s (yum, yum, YUM), or perhaps their Fleur de Sel caramels:


Finally, no foodie’s stocking would be complete without a little holiday cheer — Mr. Magpie is a beer guy, and he’s seriously into Victory right now, so I might consider a sampler of their finest.  Alternately, I might go with a classic Saison Dupont ale, just because it’s good (I’m not a beer-drinker, so I have this on good authority from my friend and beer expert, Orr Shtuhl, who writes the “Beerspotter” column for Washington’s City Paper) and it comes in a green bottle, so it fits with the holiday theme:

Of course, I know I’d never go wrong providing Mr. Magpie with his favorite of all beverages — bourbon.  He’s a fan of Woodford Reserve, but if I’m considering shaking things up, I always consult BlueKitchen, which provides rankings and descriptions for all of the best bourbons in the country.  And if your man doesn’t yet have a flask (Mr. Magpie inherited his uber-masculine, leather-front flask from his father), consider going with the classic Stanley version ($20, Stanley) — he’ll probably love that Teddy Roosevelt sipped whiskey out of his Stanley back in the day (and Hemingway sipped absinthe out of his).

(W.C. Fields was famous for having said: “Always carry a flagon of whiskey in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake.”  Mr. Magpie would love that quote.)  And — for those of you whose boyfriends/husbands are into this kind of thing — there’s soon to be a new liquor on the shelves: Moonshine, bottled.  80 proof.  Not to be messed with, in my opinion.

For the Outdoorsman…

The Stanley flask is a good segue into gifts for the huntsman/outdoorsman — Mr. Magpie’s self-appointed role in the later years of our lives.  (When we stopped in Middleburg, VA for a dog show a few weeks ago — classic, upscale hunting town — he firmly made this decision.)  I like the idea of gifting a new hat in unexpected but hunting-appropriate khaki (Mr. Magpie and I went to UVA, so I’d pick this one from our classic ‘hoo gear retailer, Mincer’s — $17)  and then rolling up a perfect flannel shirt (APC, $195, Stuart and Wright), wrapping it in a red bow, and stuffing it in the stocking as well, as an unexpected, high-end surprise:

A pair of classic Duck boots by L.L. Bean might be a welcome replacement for the grimy hiking boots Mr. Magpie currently stows in his closet ($64, L.L. Bean), while these Ray Ban aviators ($139, Ray-Ban) would seal the deal:

And because you can never have enough plaid: this wallet — in bill-fold or credit card holder form — is a perfect upgrade from his somewhat old, tattered leather version ($125 and $95, respectively, Jack Spade):

The same “you can never have enough plaid” adage goes for these classic Penfield vests (comes in a variety of fabrics/patterns/colors, many of them featuring plaid in one way or another — $140-$300, Penfield):

Now, while Mr. Magpie already has a classic Swiss army version, this rosewood, anchor-adorned pocket knife ($45, BrookFarmStore) reminds me of him:

Perfect for outdoor escapades.  Speaking of outdoorsiness:  I’ve found that the “tougher” guys are oddly stubborn about using any products that might be perceived as feminine, so I can think of more than my fair share of gents that could benefit from a manly hand lotion, like this almost crudely titled “No Crack” cream ($11.90, Vermont Country Store), used by outdoorsmen around the world:

A key candidate for this cream would be my father, the ultimate manly-man in my eyes — just a few weeks ago, I happened to be at my parents’ house, and he came back from handling some type of yard work with blood literally gushing out of his leg.  When I asked concernedly if he was OK, he looked perplexed and then glanced down at his leg — casually — and shrugged, “Oh, just a scratch.”  (He’s 65, and still tough as nails.)  My father — like many of the outdoorsy type — is a consummate fisherman, and I can only imagine his glee at receiving this hardwood walnut fly book ($119, Orvis) along with some cherry-picked dry flies (this used to be my annual gift to him as a child — I would carefully pick out the prettiest dry flies from the casing at one of the angling shops in Aspen, CO, where we spent our summers growing up, and proudly present them to him on Christmas morning):

And — for inspiration — have him check out Hemingway’s short fiction (which, in my opinion, represents some of the most technically perfect writing you’ll find in the short story form — l.o.v.e. — $13.69, Amazon):

Just Because…

I’d originally titled this section “For the Gent,” but quickly discovered that the smorgasbord of items I was throwing into this category really fit no narrower a classification than the “Just Because.”  First up?  Some manly correspondence cards.  I’m in.love with Jack & Lulu’s stationery (I ordered some of their darling calling cards featuring my new last name within days of tying the knot!) and these notecards in stately gray-and-gold, featuring crossed swords (reminiscent of the UVA crossed sabers), are just about perfect ($18, Jack and Lulu) for Mr. Magpie:

Meanwhile, these Thomas Paul melamine coasters featuring sailors’ knots are right up Mr. Magpie’s alley ($16 for set of four, Orange and Pear), and would be perfect for protecting our wood furniture from the condensation on his monogrammed scotch glasses ($72 for set of 4, Williams-Sonoma):

I know that Mr. Magpie had his eye on a textured wool tie while we were shopping for his fall wardrobe at Ralph Lauren a few weeks ago (he’s a Ralph enthusiast — and that’s putting it mildly; I’d guess that about 75-80% of his wardrobe bears Mr. Lauren’s name), and these plaid Gitman Brothers ties would likely fit the bill ($49 apiece, Gitman Vintage):


Perfect for Christmas dinner.  Also perfect for Christmas?  These warm but masculine leather gloves, lined with checked thinsulate (Woolrich, $145, Need Supply):

…and just.because he deserves a little indulgence — not that I necessarily endorse gaming — I know that he’s been secretly eying the recently-released GoldenEye game for the Wii ($39, Amazon):

In reviewing the list above, I’m realizing that I have a lot less stocking stuffers than I do proper gifts.  Eh, well.  Looks like I’ll put off scrimping and saving til next year…no one wants to be a Scrooge!

Gifting Guru

In Accessories, Beauty Products, Gifts!, Home Decor, Jewelry, Magpie Men, Monograms, Winter Weather on October 13, 2010 at 12:55 pm

I’ve recently encountered a slew of gift-giving occasions — birthday parties, bon voyages, baby showers, thank yous, etc, etc.  And though I’m constantly thinking to myself: “oh, that would make a cute gift!” — I continue to find myself drawing complete blanks and rushing to my go-to gift shop (Sassanova Boutique in Georgetown) at the midnight hour.  This is very un-Magpie like, as I prefer to have things selected, packaged, and tied with a bow well in advance.  So this post is as much a selfish attempt at personal organization as it is an opportunity to share with you so of my favorite gift ideas.  (Perfect as we head towards Christmas territory — it’s just around the corner!  And if my mother taught me nothing else: it’s never too early to buy Christmas gifts.  She has an entire “gift room,” where she stockpile gifts for any number of occasions, often nabbing well-priced items and saving them for gift-giving occasions as they arise.)  Check out some of my top picks below!

For Her

I love these gorgeously-packaged Calypso Celle candles ($45 apiece, Calypso) — perfect for a house-warming, a thank you, or a congratulations — especially when paired with this appealingly printed box of matches (love that the match heads are pink — it’s all in the details! — $12 for two boxes, iomoi):

And who wouldn’t swoon over this funky little rope-and-chiffon statement necklace from the recently-opened eShop Vamoose ($87 apiece, Vamoose)?!

Love the softness of the petals against the ruggedness of the rope chain.  For a smaller token, why not prettily package a little accessories pouch or laptop sleeve (ideal for a new college grad or a “congrats on your new job!” little something — $17, Bungalow):

If the gift feels a little “light” for your recipient, consider throwing in a pretty writing implement ($25, Smythson) or a stack of note pads (first set: Russel & Hazel, $11, Organize; second set: Kate Spade, $12, Organize):


For “the hostess with the mostess,” how about an attractively-designed bottle of champagne (or set of mini champagne bottles) — let’s face it: sometimes I do judge a book by its cover / a bottle by its label!  Pair in a stack of bubbly polka dot coasters (Kate Spade, $20, Organize):

Alternately, this gorgeously-packaged set of wine and bonbons would make any little lady happy as can be (l.o.v.e. the chic labeling — $125, Swanson Vineyards):

I also love gifting little keepsake necklaces to my girlfriends — something delicate and sentimental in a way.  I love Dogeared charm necklaces for this purpose, and they often have sweet little sayings tailored to different situations.  I gave the “Follow Your Dreams” kite charm necklace to my little sis when she graduated from college and set out for New York to pursue her dreams of being a fashion designer by attending Parson’s ($54, Dogeared) and this  “Lean on Me” charm necklace to another one of my sisters to remind her that I am always ready to listen ($54, Dogeared):

I like the idea of pairing them with a sweet little monogrammed jewelry case — Leontine Linens has lovely versions in round hard case shape or flat pouches.  While you’re at it, consider snapping up a coordinating lingerie bag ($60-$295 depending on the fabrication / size — Leontine Linens)!

(Turq Bridal has some affordable versions as well in cute little prints and colors — $22/pop, Turq Bridal.)  Speaking of personalization, these Boulevard Bags wallets are just as chic as can be.  I’m smitten with the Hermes orange version, and I’d have it hot-stamped in gold lettering ($107, Boulevard Bags):

I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t love a cozy pashmina for use as a shawl, scarf, blanket, etc — and I never travel without one (I am always cold…)  Check out the pretty colors (azalea and coral are shown below) at A Bientot boutique, for example  ($42, A Bientot):

They’re the perfect gift for any age, any style, and any occasion.  If I ever stumble upon a good bulk deal, I’m just going to snap up a dozen and keep them set aside for gifting (…even if I’m occasionally the recipient.)  I also think a classic pearl bracelet with a costumey twist is a fun little gift for peers and members of older generations as well — how fun is this little bauble ($58, A Bientot):

And, while perfume can be something of a personal choice, if you either a) know the person well, or b) want to go out on a limb and make your own preferences known, a prettily packaged bottle of perfume makes for a luxurious gift (Chloe, $85, Saks):

Now, sometimes coffee table books get a bad wrap, but — others collect them and display them as treasures, as does Katie Armour of The Neotraditionalist:

{Images from The Neotraditionalist}

I have a few top picks I’d give…and give again…and give again.  For one thing, I had the rare fortune of attending Richard Avedon’s “Portraits of Power” exhibition at the Corcoran a year or two ago, and, while nothing can compare to the impact of seeing some of his portraits in their full glory (they are huge), I would love to thumb through this bound edition ($50, Barnes and Noble):

While we’re on the subject of books, why not give your favorite bibliophile a set of attractively bound books (these stunners were designed by Coralie Bickford Smith) with these gorgeous hand-painted bookmarks ($40 for 3, Bernard Maisner) or a set of handsome ex libris plates ($28 for set of 16, ThornWillowPress):

This is probably a good transition point to the “Pour Lui” (“For Him”) section of this post, as any of the last few items could be offered to the gents as well!

For Him

I know guys (at least — the guys I know) aren’t exactly the type to spontaneously write letters, but these handsome monogrammed notecards by Gadabout ($45 for set of 25 monogrammed cards, Gadabout) may just be masculine enough to spur on the least communicative of the bunch:

(The pocket knife speaks to me: Mr. Magpie chucked the old, rusty can opener I’d brought with me to the new apartment, and we’ve been relying on a Swiss Army knife’s can opener for the past few weeks for no reason other than that I keep forgetting to pick one up until I desperately need to open a can of chickpeas in order to make hummus, which inevitably takes place twenty minutes before guests are due to arrive.  Gr.)  Another good stocking stuffer / gift for a guy that you don’t know too, too well?  A classic plaid scarf.  I don’t think Mr. Magpie realized he was a scarf guy until he received one for Christmas a few years ago — so go ahead, let him surprise himself into realizing that scarves aren’t always effeminate with these affordable Fine & Dandy Shop versions ($35, Fine and Dandy):

(Bonus points for taking it to an embroidery outpost and having it monogrammed in the classic block configuration.)  I believe I’ve mentioned this enough times to sound like something of a broken record, but you’ll never go wrong by gifting a pair of classic Ray Ban Wayfarer shades ($139, Ray-Ban):

Mr. Magpie, preppiest of the preppy, rocks ‘em, as does every hipster, square, and rebel, regardless of age.  Speaking of preppy, if your guy is similarly inclined, a peppy bow tie could be the winning ticket — the ones below are by Fine and Dandy ($35 apiece, Fine and Dandy), but Mr. Magpie had the bow tie-and-cummerbund sets for his groomsmen custom made by the wonderful folks at Peter Blair in Richmond, and was thrilled with the results:

And now on to the merry-making stuff: how cool is this wine tasting kit from Swanson Vineyards?!  For $42, you get 6 mini-bottles and copious notes on each!

Alternately, if your guy is a whiskey/bourbon drinker (Mr. Magpie’s kind of guy), this uber-masculine “outdoor-ready” flask ($22, Design within Reach) is just perfect when paired with a nice bottle o’ booze:


Mr. Magpie is in desperate need of a duffel / overnight bag (he currently has either has a huge roll-a-board or stuffs his belongings in my bags…), so I’ve been on the lookout for masculine-looking travel gear.  I think I’ve narrowed the search down to this rich leather duffel ($395, Jack Spade) or one of the uber-manly Filsons ($295, Filson):

Look forward to additional gift guides in the next few months as we gear up for the holidays!

Easy Does It

In Accessories, Jewelry, Monograms, Shoes, Sundresses on July 26, 2010 at 3:18 pm

While I typically strive for a refined, polished look, there are those lazy weekend days that are made for comfortable, casual, and slightly “undone” styling.  I like the idea of throwing this striped shirt-dress on ($88, Madewell) and pairing it with some strappy brown sandals ($247.50, TheOutnet):

If you’re heading out on the town for errand-running, you might want to step it up a touch by cinching the waist with a skinny wraparound belt (I like “easy” aura of a loosely-wrapped belt).  Linea Pelle has great studded options, but I’m kind of in favor of this braided variation ($100, Linea Pelle):

Toss your belongings into an easy carry-all — I love the Linea Pelle “Dylan” tote below($395, Muse Ten):

I feel that this monogrammed Ginette NY necklace would totally complete the look.  They take 4-6 weeks to craft (you custom order them with your initials), and they are just the loveliest of keepsakes ($588, Eliza Page):

Perfect with this La Mer wrap watch (I snagged one of these last fall and get compliments on it all.the.time — it looks much pricier than it is! — $90, La Mer Collections):

Or, if it were cooler — ugh, miss the fall — slip the dress on with a pair of low wedge boots.  These Loeffler Randall “Mathilde” boots are my favorite — finally bit the bullet and bought a variation of the version below this past year ($695, Blue & Cream):

If you’re sporting the boots, I’d make the entire look a bit heavier by adding on some leather bracelets.  CCSkye has some appealing options, including this clasped version (on sale for $109, NYCIWear):

This easy-on striped dress would be another excellent option for low-keying it around on the weekend ($82, PixieMarket) — check out the back!

It’d look lovely in the fall/winter months thrown on over a pair of black tights and some mid-calf black boots ($105, Endless — also comes in a versatile “cognac” brown color).  Very Parisian chic.

(I apologize for the multiple references to fall — I guess I’m not-so-subliminally tired of the heat…)  Another SEASON appropriate pick — this breezy striped cap-sleeved, boxy blouse ($67.50,  Built by Wendy) with a pair of white shorts (Pucci, $154, TheOutnet):

I’d jazz it up with a clinky coin necklace (I’ve recently blogged about my obsession with Katie Costello’s coin necklaces, but this Ben Amun version is equally appealing — $300, Max and Chloe):

Alternately, layer on a couple of these initial necklaces (I am thinking it would be cute to have two: one with the first name initial, one with my NEW last name initial — $90 apiece, Laura James Jewelry):

Depending on my mood, I’d either slip into some moccasins (on sale for $79, J. Crew) or some strappy low-wedge sandals (on sale for $71, Zappos):

Another “right now” separates option: a denim shirt ($88, Madewell) and some white shorts ($135, Calypso):

Throw this vintage-looking scarf on for bonus points ($40, TopShop) — especially chic with these swoon-worthy Chloe woven leather sandals I’ve been eyeballing ($625, Net-A-Porter):

This “Bond Street” B&D tote would be the perfect accompaniment ($357, Bluefly):

I’m not usually huge into stud detailing, but the richness of the leather and the casualness of the overall look just works.  If you’d prefer the simplicity of a throw-on-and-go dress, how about this T By Alexander Wang racerback dress ($89, Kirna Zabete):

Very cool with these lace-up flat sandals ($78, Madewell) and this statement necklace by Mine ($45, Farfetch):

Or, if you’d rather go the scarf route, how amazing is this Gucci one ($283, Farfetch)?

Love the horse-bit detailing.  I’m also in love with this inexpensive could-double-as-a-cover-up-or-nightie dress from Gap (on super sale for only $14.99 in the navy stripe!):

Slip on a bold statement piece, like this chain link KJL necklace ($88, Shopbop) and these accented navy sandals ($49, Dillard’s)

Then tote your belongings around in this YSL script-side tote ($756, Bluefly):

Easy does it…

Schoolgirl Charm

In Accessories, Home Decor, Jewelry, Monograms, Shoes, Work Wear on May 21, 2010 at 3:07 pm

With the resurgence of the navy boyfriend blazer (it was all. over. the. place. this season), it’s no surprise that the prep school aesthetic is back in a major way.  (Thanks, in part, to Blair Waldorf, Serena Van Der Woodsen, and the other cast of characters on the CW’s Gossip Girl.)

Just take a gander at Anna Sui’s Spring/Summer 2010 runway collection:

I spy with my little eye band uniforms, East Coast preppy madras, and cricket sweaters.  Are we headed back to school before summer’s even out?  Apparently, if designers like Proenza Schouler, Luella, and Rag&Bone have anything to say about it.  They received high marks for their 2010 spring/summer collections, which featured heavy-handed plaids, navy blazers, and other woolen school-child goodies.  Because I attended private Catholic school from 1st grade through high school, I’ll always feel a little sheepish riffing on what was once a daily uniform that I despised.  But based on the offerings I’ve spotted this season?  I might just have to forgo my concerns and enroll.

It all begins with a classic, gold-buttoned blue blazer like the Theory Blinn above ($415, Barneys).  J. Crew’s Wool McCoy ($298, J. Crew) and Ralph Lauren’s Thelred Crested Blazer ($290, Ralph Lauren) receive A’s as well:

If you’re petite, test out one of the Brooks Brothers Boys’ navy blazers — they’re the real deal ($228, Brooks Brothers).  For a slightly less expensive version of the shrunken, little-brother fit, I’m loving Madewell’s version ($168, Shopbop):

This summer, I’m pairing mine with nautical striped tees and crisp little white pencil skirts for work, but I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect short circle skirt to carry out a little fashion fantasy of mine.  Think, for example, how fresh you’d look sporting your blazer with the J. Crew Cavalry skirt in white or khaki (on sale for $49.50, J. Crew):

Reese Witherspoon went for the same look — and looked positively varsity in it.

For a day at the gallery or an afternoon lunch, I love the idea of pairing the look with some gold BCBGirls gladiators for a trendy take on the traditional style ($78, Zappos):

For something a bit dressier, slip into some patent navy peep toes ($249, PeepToeShoes) or maybe swap out the girlish Cavalry skirt for a rugby-striped, high-waisted Alice & Olivia circle skirt ($165, Net-A-Porter):

Need more full circle skirt ideas?  Check out this Erotokritos pleated version ($181, Farfetch) or the black “Barren” skirt by Diane Von Furstenberg below ($245, Saks):

And — if you’re a bit on the bolder side — check out this precious printed high-waist skirt from Mod Clothing ($69).  I’d pair with some heavy gold chains — maybe this Nicol knotted necklace ($220, Shopbop), this Giles and Brother ($295, Shopbop), or this Fiona Paxton version ($296, The Hip Chick):

Alternately, pair a Marc by Marc Jacobs primary-school styled blouse — Peter Pan collar and all! ($178, Shopbop) — with a tidy little skirt-and-jacket uniform combo (both by Diane Von Furstenberg, $325 for jacket and $185 for skirt, available at Diani Boutique):

Adorable with some heavy gold jewelry.  I’m thinking solid gold studs ($150, Shopbop), a “class ring”-inspired bauble ($295, J. Crew), and a chunky “I graduated!” gold watch ($250, Michael Kors):

I’d add on a slouchy brown Tory Burch modified messenger bag ($395, Saks) or structured Mulberry brief-case-esque Bayswater (the Lucien is equally as lovely — both are around $1k, Mulberry):

I’m so in love with the lines of a circle skirt, a fitted blouse, and some super-high heels, I think you could even get away with a full-on plaid skirt like this little Joie “Willa” (on super sale for $54 at PiperLime) with a prim little short-sleeved blouse (Y, $440, Forward):

But beware: you’ll receive fashion demerits if you’re in a straight-up kilt, as you’ll wind up looking too much like a college freshman on Halloween.  The proportions are crucial: you’ve got to have the hem hit just above the knee and the waist appear high and nipped-in.  Take your cues from buttoned-up-chic Blair Waldorf of Gossip Girl:

(If you’re loving the bow-collar white shirt look as an accompaniment, you can find a killer version by Max Mara at FarFetch for $151.)

If you’d prefer to avoid a literal take on the schoolgirl getup, there are some awesome variations on the navy blazer that will get you just where you want to be.  Consider, for example, this navy Ida double breasted car coat by king-of-cashmere brand Goat ($429, My Wardrobe):

I’d pair it with this cashmere, crested Burberry scarf ($295, Burberry):

But before I launch myself into the fall season (which can quickly happen when we’re thinking schoolyard fashion), let’s check out some other summer alternatives to the navy blazer.  Maybe this unstructured “sweater” version of the classic blazer by Splendid ($107, Bloomingdale’s) or a piped boyfriend sweater in timeless navy ($88, J. Crew or $79.50, Rugby) will suit your needs?

All would look extra-crisp and of-the-moment with skinny white jeans and some strappy brown leather sandals or — if you’re into the preppy style — some classic Sperry topsiders ($74.95, Endless):

If you’d prefer a slightly more feminine version of the topsider classic, I’m kind of in love with these Joan & Davids (I know, uncool label, but…so precious — $130, PiperLime):

Other add-ons?  A cheeky Anya Hindmarch canvas tote that reads “Homework” in schoolchild script ($120, Bloomingdale’s):

And then you’ll need a classic charm bracelet.  This vintage Chanel caught my eye ($1,550, Shopbop):

However, Marc by Marc Jacobs ($88, Zappos) and Ben Amun ($95, Max and Chloe) have much more affordable — and just as charming — versions:

And while on the subject of fanciful jewelry, I just adore this little La Mer ring watch ($58, La Mer Collections).  I’d probably wear it on a chain around my neck, but — how darling?!

Or maybe this crest-bearing “cigar” ring?  The coat of arms imprint is ideally suited to the boarding school prep look ($70, Couture Candy):

For after-school extra-curriculars?  I love the idea of trim little shorts, like these rosemary jacquard shorts (also come in canary yellow!) by Marc Jacobs ($124, Shopbop):

How cute would it look with a little roll-neck rugby sweater (this one is from the Crew Cuts sweater at J. Crew, $39.50):

You could also pair it with any of the many lovely bateau-neck tops that are out this season (check APC and J. Crew for options).  Alternately, imagine how precious this little madras top ($90, La Garconne) with some crisp white nautical shorts would look:

Both school’s-out outfits would look darling with some boat shoes or some gold or white Jack Rogers and a classic canvas bag ($17.95-$30.95, L.L. Bean):

Ideas for outfitting your home in updated prep school style?  Start with a tartan throw ($49 down from $150, Eddie Bauer) and accent with a super-cool “book box” ($49, Wisteria) and a vintage-style globe ($29.99, World Market):

Spruce up your couch with these awesome needlepoint pillows featuring prepster repp ties and belts by Jonathan Adler ($195 apiece, Jonathan Adler):

The pillows above remind me of the classic needlepoint belts by Smathers & Branson (one of the founders is the son of my high school English teacher — it all comes back to education):

I snagged the crab version above for my fiance last summer from Cape Cod-ready clothing outpost Sherman Pickey in Georgetown.  You can buy yours (for your hubby or yourself!) at the Smathers & Branson online boutique for $165 apiece.

And — just to round out your wardrobe — make sure you invest in some quality loafers.  I’m mad about these Tod’s mocs ($385, My Theresa):

And why not invest in a lady-like plaid handbag, like this darling Brooks Brothers frame bag ($74, Brooks Brothers)?

I feel as though Blair Waldorf would pair it with this Peter Pan collar sheath dress by L’Wren Scott ($2,206, My Theresa):

If the style is too dainty for you, Brooks Brothers also sells a larger structured tote version for $150.  Plenty big enough for your books, your pens and highlighters (to be stored in your Rag & Bone tartan pouch — $100, Saks), and your cheekily-titled notebook (the cover reads “Academics I Met and Liked — $10, Velocity Art and Design).

Let’s not forget your guide to etiquette and style: “The Preppy Handbook,” a tongue-in-cheek look at Waspy life originally published in 1980 ($23.95 and up for a used copy, Amazon):

(It’s hilarious.)  So study up!

After-School (or Anytime) Magpie Snacks

Because studying and shopping for just the right look can be draining, refuel with some of my go-to “after school” snacks.  First — my fiance’s absolute favorite treat: LU’s Petit Ecoliers (slabs of chocolate on top of buttery, crumbly cookies).  You can find them in most stores for around $4 a pack.

Second, we have my Magpie Munch — a slight variation on the traditional chex mix that I make regularly.  You’d be astounded at how quickly this stuff goes, especially when placed out during cocktail hour.

Magpie Munch

Preheat oven to 275 degrees.  In a large bowl, mix 3 cups corn chex, 3 cups wheat chex, and 3 cups rice chex.  Add some mini pretzels and garlic-flavored bagel chips (if you can find the mini ones, great!  If not, just break the larger ones into bite-sized pieces).  I usually add some other little munchy item — peanuts, rye bagel chips, goldfish, etc.  Meanwhile, melt 6 tablespoons butter in microwave.  Whisk in 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce, about 1.5-2 teaspoons Lawry’s seasoned salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder,  3/4 teaspoon onion powder, an 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay.  Because my fiance likes a little heat, I’ll occasionally whisk in some hot sauce.  Pour over the chex, toss to coat, and then spread out on foil-lined baking sheet.  Place in oven, stirring mix every ten minutes or so, until cereal is toasted (usually around 20 minutes, but sometimes takes longer).  Test taste a cereal square for seasoning.  I frequently add quite a bit more garlic powder and seasoned salt by sprinkling it on top and mixing, but always test first.  Yum!

Life's a Picnic

In Home Decor, Monograms, Shoes, Sundresses on May 11, 2010 at 2:30 pm

Though it’s been unseasonably cool the past couple of days here in the District, the forecast promises high 70s/low 80s come Wednesday and Ms. Right-on-the-Money has invited me to the beach for Memorial Day — in other words, all I can think about is summertime, summertime, summertime.  And, because I love an excuse to entertain, I’m dreaming up a fun day-in-the-sun outdoorsy picnic.

I received the most amazing barrel-shaped picnic basket from one of my bridal shower guests — it came outfitted with all the requisite glasses, plates, and utensils tucked inside.  The one above is by PicnicTime — you can find a range of their products at eBags. If the basket is too elaborate a prop for you, test out one of these two canvas Anya Hindmarch totes (the first reads “Picnic” on the side and is available for $98 at Saks; the second accommodates six bottles of wine (!) and is available for $120 at Anya Hindmarch):

Then you’ll need a big red-and-white checked blanket or tablecloth to spread on the ground (gingham is an absolute must for the retro-style picnic I’m envisioning) — the one below is by Felix Populi ($80):

You can seat your guests on comfy Sunbrella ground cushions ($49 apiece, Crate and Barrel) in a cheery daffodil yellow.

As for dining implements?  As you know, I find anything monogrammed and melamine adorable for outdoor entertaining.  How about some gingham-patterned plates ($22 each, LaPlates):

These personalized Duraclear tumblers are perfect for summertime lemonade…or Mint Juleps ($68 for set of six, Williams Sonoma):

And for a summer salad — how perfectly designed is this little piece from Crate and Barrel?  The servers snap in and snap out — ideal for transport ($14.95, Crate & Barrel):

Speaking of easy transport, how adorable (and useful) are these gingham Chinese takeout boxes?  You could pack them with your picnic fare — individualized portions of fruit salad, sesame noodles, or caramel popcorn ($14 for 6 at Plum Party):

And what will you, the guest of honor, be wearing?  I’d advise a matching retro-chic aesthetic.  I’m into checks and polka dots — how about this straight-out-of-the-50s housedress ($88, Anthropologie):

I think it’d look beyond adorable with some white Jack Rogers and a little wicker clutch:

The darling bow version above is by Margaret Nicole ($160), but if it’s too frou-frou for your tastes given the daintiness of the entire look, consider this woven barrel clutch by Michael Kors instead ($178, Bloomingdale’s):

Alternately, consider pairing the Jacks and your clutch of choice with some crisp white jeans (J. Brand) and a blue-and-white checked top (Tory Burch — $225, Bergdorf’s):

The gingham checked shirt is quickly earning icon status.  They’re all over the place right now — $40 at Gap; $69.50 at J. Crew; $151 for Gemma at Revolve Clothing; $160 for Steven Alan at Net-A-Porter; and so on and so on.  Celebs are all over the look — including the lovely Reese Witherspoon:

If that’s too farmer-girl-next-door, why not an updated polka dot pattern?  I’m absolutely bananas over this Alice by Temperley number ($425, Net-A-Porter):

Love the ketchup red color — perfect for the 4th of July.  Alternately, for something in the more modest price range — this byCorpus dress really caught my eye ($58, Urban Outfitters):

I’m crazy about the neckline.  So vintage-cool, easy-looking, and feminine.  Love.  I’m also head over heels for this sweet little tiered frock from Anthropologie ($158) — perfect for a lazy summer day!

If you find these dresses a bit too kitschy, you can look just as picnic-prepared in a white eyelet dress, like this Shoshanna ($330, Shopbop):

or this Lilly (on sale for $241 at Zappos — and it’s still full-price at Lilly’s eStore!):

Then all you’ll need is a pair of eye-catching sandals.  These fun frillies are by Gap (!) and will only set you back $34.50:

Consider rounding out the look with this precious red-and-white-checked envelope clutch ($50, TopShop) or this cherry-red-accented rattan clutch ($275, Tory Burch) and a pair of classic red Wayfarers ($145, Shopbop):

And while I’m guessing you won’t be sporting swimwear to your local park (although — possibly appropriate for sunbathing season?), I’m ga-ga over this gingham ruffle bikini by Dani Kates ($41 for top, $39 for bottoms — Bluefly):


Sports Illustrated model Abby Clancy rocked this exact style for a spread in the magazine, so I’m shocked it’s not sold out yet.  I’ve already snapped my set up and tucked it away for the honeymoon!

Looking for some easy-purchase last-minute accessories?  I’m loving this Kate Spade “Picnic Quinn” bag ($275, KateSpade):

Or, as a substitute for a traditional picnic basket, consider this lovely waterproof tote from the “Chesapeake Collection” at Ellen Allen of Annapolis (love that she’s local!):

(It’s $250.)  The interior has all kinds of pockets and pouches — my mom would die over it.

But once you’re there in the sun with good friends and good wine, the only thing you’ll need?  Some good ol’ tunes.  And lucky for us, Anthropologie has the perfect retro-chic answer to that need — a Roberts Revival radio ($328, Anthropologie — it comes in a range of adorable vintage-esque colors!):

Sit back and relax — quelle piquenique!

Addendum:

TheFashionMagpie’s Picnic Spread

Because I love to entertain, I’ve packed many-a-picnic in my day — so I thought I’d share some ideas on outdoor entertaining with you.  Rules of thumb: avoid mayonnaise or anything else that will go rancid when left out too long.  Try to aim for things easily eaten with one hand or scooped with a fork — nothing that requires cutting with a knife.  I’m big into Mediterranean fare these days — so I’ve copied some of my absolute favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes (friends ask for these recipes all the time!)  I’d supplement these dishes with some pita rounds and/or pita chips, quality olives (i.e. from an olive bar at Whole Foods or another gourmet food purveyor, and harissa — a Tunisian hot chili sauce you can find in specialty markets).

The Magpie Couscous Salad

Cook a box of plain couscous according to the directions on the box.  In the meantime, combine 1/2 C fresh-squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 C olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon pepper.  Pour some of dressing over warm couscous (enough to moisten and fragrance).  Add thinly sliced red onion (about 1/2 of an onion), 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, freshly chopped watercress, 1/4 cup slivered almonds (I like to toast mine over medium heat in a small fry pan for a few minutes, until lightly browned), and fresh grapes, halved.  The proportions are approximate, so add as many grapes/nuts/onions as you’d like!  Finish by adding more dressing, to taste, depending on how lemon-y you like it.  I’ve also added shredded chicken in the past.

The Magpie Hummus

You’ll need a food processor for this one.  Mince 4 peeled cloves of garlic in the processor and add 2 cups canned chickpeas (reserve the juice in a separate ramekin), 1/3 cup tahini, the juice of two lemons (you may need to adjust depending on the juiciness and size of the lemons), 1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt.  Process until smooth, adding a few tablespoons of the reserved chickpea juice and drizzles of olive oil to increase the creaminess.  I will occasionally throw in a fistful of herbs (parsley, dill, cilantro) if I have it on hand — it just tastes fresh!

Kicked Up Brownies

Because no picnic is complete without ‘em.  Prepare the batter of your favorite boxed brownie mix.  Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla (I use Nielson-Massey — $19, Williams-Sonoma), 2 tablespoons instant espresso or coffee, about a cup of high-quality chocolate chips or chunks (Ghirardelli is good), and toasted walnuts (toss them in a dry pan for a couple of minutes until they are fragrant).  Bake as indicated on the box.  They are delicious!

The Drink Situation

I love Bobby Flay’s red sangria recipe — turns out perfectly every time.  I tend to use fruity Spanish reds as the base — I’m especially keen on Tempranillos, and you can find good-tasting bottles for relatively cheap ($8/bottle).  If you’re not into that, my absolute favorite light summer wine is the inexpensive, palate-pleasing Famega ($7, Wine Library), which I discovered at my favorite wine shop, Best Cellars.  Famega is a vinho verde, or a Portuguese white wine known for its light, tart taste and slightly fruity aroma.  Although it doesn’t qualify as a sparkling wine, there’s definitely some petillance to it — a perfect, refreshing fit for a hot summer day.

Bon appetit!

The Seasoned Traveler

In Monograms, Shoes, Uncategorized on April 30, 2010 at 4:37 pm

With a honeymoon not far in the future and quite a bit of recent travel along the Eastern seaboard under my belt, I’ve given some serious thought to making travel easier and more stylish.  For me, it all comes down to de-cluttering and compartmentalizing: I don’t like to be juggling 23 miscellaneous bags and I hate the feeling of scrounging around in an enormous bag for my passport.  All I need is one big shoulder strap carry-all and a roll-a-board.  I usually carry my Louis Vuitton Neverfull — it can hold my entire life and more, Macbook included –

I organize the contents with smaller zip-top bags: a neoprene laptop case for Mr. Apple (mine is a hot pink inCase brand — $39, inCase), a clear makeup compartment that I can remove and place in the separate bin during security screening (Kate Spade, on sale now for $38 at Bloomingdales), and one or two for miscellaneous items — pens, passport, iPod, etc. (the one below is by Anya Hindmarch, $70, Net-A-Porter — the website claims they will be getting new stock in soon!)

Anya Hindmarch has come out with a bunch of adorable little pouches just like the one above for a variety of purposes — I’ve seen ones labeled “Parking” (for parking coinage), “Glasses,” “Odds & Ends,” and more –

(You can find some of them on Anya’s website.)  I also always keep the jewelry I’m traveling with in a separate pouch in my carry-on.  It’s just foolish to check it.  My soon-to-be-parents-in-law gave me this classic Tiffany jewelry roll that I carry with me everywhere, and I like to keep bigger statement pieces in my gold Kate Spade pencil case (can double as a clutch while you’re on vacation!):

I keep my pearls separately for whatever reason, in a little round monogrammed jewelry pouch my mother gave me years ago.  (The much-revered Leontine Linens has similar versions.)

With my shoulder bag squared away, all I need is a roll-a-board that will fit in the overhead compartment.  I have a hot pink Longchamps Pliage collection bag I picked up in France several years ago, and I love it — you never run the risk of having someone run off with your bag (too obvious) and it’s easily spottable on the conveyor belt.

($270, Longchamps.)  They are super compact — smaller, actually, than they need to be to qualify as a stowable overhead item — but I just springload mine with clothing.  If I were to buy another, I’m in love with this Henri Bendel ($595):

Why not travel in color?  Flight001 (an Oprah-approved vendor) features a range of brightly colored and patterned options, including the beloved Rimowa-brand Salsa Air Cabin Trolley, fabricated of some amaza-material that acts like a hard case but compresses/gives in a tight spot:

For smart packing within the bag, I die over this monogrammed lingerie bag that the mother of my maid-of-honor gifted me at one of my bridal showers (So Pretty Monograms, $60):

The above-mentioned Leontine Linens company has some covetable monogrammed lingerie and toiletry bags as well (first image below), as does the company Turq Bridal (Ms. Southern Belle gifted me a lovely toile version for helping me with her wedding a few years ago — great gift! — it’s roomy and I usually keep my bathing suits in it):

Because I’m a big shopper, I usually throw in an extra Longchamps Pliage tote.  They weigh next-to-nothing, fold up into tidy little envelope, and expand to a decent size — and they come in such an amazing range of colors ($145, Nordstrom)!

With the luggage down pat, let’s move on to attire.  I feel as though every guidebook tells you to “dress for comfort” and while I couldn’t agree more (imagine a 5 hour flight in skin-tight jeans!), I’m grossed out by the sloppy track suit / loose-fitting pants and sneakers route.  Sick.  Maybe this is because my parents always made us “dress up” for travel –  my father usually wears a blazer to the airport, and my Mom looks like she’s ready for lunch with the Queen when she’s train-bound.  And I love that.  While I’m not quite as formal, looking put-together is the first step in an organized travel experience.  I usually wear ankle-length Paige or J Brand jeans with a little stretch in them and the ubiquitous easy-off Tory Burch Reva flat (perfect for slipping out of at the security checkpoint).

I’m also getting into the whole moccasin shoe look.  I bought my fiance some classic Tod’s driving loafers a few years ago and have been longing for some of their brightly-colored mocs for women ever since.  Until I decide to take the leap and invest in a pair, I’ll live in J. Crew’s less expensive ($108) Emilies.  (I’m also kind of obsessed with Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow 1960 mocs — offbeat cool at $178.)

Up top, layering is crucial.  I begin with a cami (love J. Crew’s “Perfect Fit” tank — 2 for $30), then add a blousey, long shirt (as mentioned in my Cube Couture post, I love the brand Tucker — they cost around $275 a piece — but have also had good luck at Zara of all places); and a long, drapey cardigan (Splendid has some awesome ones — $63, Revolve Clothing).

I always bring a light-weight, foldable coat as well.  A trench would work, but I love my little red Juicy Couture coat (I’ve featured it multiple times already):

I’m also in love with this bracelet-sleeve khaki parka for travel ($298, Bergdorf Goodman) — coincidentally, also by Juicy Couture:

It could work in the rain or just for some additional worth.  Occasionally, for longer flights, I’ll swap out the jeans for a pair of black American Apparel leggings ($26) and some of those low-wedge boots I love:

The above pair are by Loeffler Randall ($664, Revolve Clothing), and I have to brag that I just snapped up this impractical but I-die-over-them perforated version at ChickDownTown for 75% off (!)

Steve Madden has an awesome much-more-affordable version known as the Intyce ($129, Nordstrom):

Everyone and her mother owns a pair, but they’re a great way of getting the look for less.  Love this cognac color — it matches well with everything!  (Beware: these shoes have about one season of solid use in them.  Then they die.)  I’ve also snagged these BCBG Petler boots (on sale now for $91 at Zappos) in a faux-croc material.  They look surprisingly expensive in person — and they run super-narrow, so they make your legs look trim:

I also always, always bring a big pashmina in a coordinating color — I like either solids (bright, happy peony pink or demure camel color), a leopard print, or a cool-looking stripe.  Tolani has some awesome and extremely-popular-amongst-the-celebs versions (around $75 each), but they can at times look a little dowdy for my taste.  I’m into the one Style Icon Nicole Richie’s wearing here, though:

Hilary Duff, another Tolani enthusiast, claims that she buys “African and Indian tablecloths” and throws them around her neck…woah, H-Duff.  Not sure I’m on your page with that one.  I’m more inclined towards solids I’ve snagged from a vendor called “Off the Shoulder” at my high school’s annual “Esprit de Noel” (bazaar with lots of preppy vendors) or this luxe Armand Diradourian ($285, Barney’s):

They can double as blankets when I’m cold on the plane — and I’m always cold on the plane.  For this reason, I never travel without a spare pair of Smartwool socks.  They are ugly and embarrassing but they keep my toesies toasty ($17, Smartwool).  I live in them.

For longer flights, I occasionally pack an actual throw blanket.  I’m in love with this Henri Bendel cashmere version ($388):

Other musts for on-board survival?  An iPod shuffle (in love with it — perfect for working out and so tinytinytiny…I also have an iPhone for all the fun apps that I need to keep me occupied) and some huge shades (these are Stella McCartney, $200):

And, of course, a good book.  I’m not a big contemporary lit consumer; I’m beholden to the classics.  But that doesn’t mean they need to be heavy and dense.  Check out the brilliant, devilishly critical social commentaries in Evelyn Waugh’s novels (Vile Bodies is hilarious — $10, Amazon) or some of Fitzgerald’s short fiction (note that his track record with short stories is uneven — he wrote some for magazine audiences, and these tend to have awkward crowd-pleasing endings).

I also have some beauty essentials: along with the requisite DiorShow mascara and Nars bronzer, I need antibacterial gel (traveling leaves me feeling dirty — so many people in such confined spaces), L’Occitane’s travel-sized hand lotion (loved the rose bud scent, but think it was a Limited Edition deal — $10, L’Occitane), and solid perfume (luckily, Tocca’s Cleopatra scent — my signature — comes in the solid for $30, Tocca.com).

Thanks to my soon-to-be-mother-in-law, I’m also never without an umbrella: the Totes version she gave me in hot pink literally fits in my jacket pocket.  It’s perfect for the unexpected downpour — and it’s only $10 (KMart).

Of course, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that I’m not always so put-together and practical.  Just this year, I invested in a Louis Vuitton duffel.

I lovelovelove it, but, for a shoulder-strap bag, it is decently heavy on its own and unimaginably heavy with the amount of clothes I try to jam in.  If you’re gunning for it, make sure you get the version with a shoulder strap.  It seems like a ridiculous expense ($200 more for a strap?!), but I literally wouldn’t be able to use my bag without it.  Other cute-but-impractical travel items?  A little hat-box-esque boxy tote — love this Henri Bendel –

I don’t know about you, but I’m in the mood for some jetsetting…

Life Aquatic

In Accessories, Beach Wear, Home Decor, Jewelry, Monograms, Sundresses, The Honeymoon Trousseau on April 29, 2010 at 1:01 pm

You may have noticed that The Fashion Magpie is “all aboard” with the nautical trend — just take a gander at the “Nautical by Nature” and “Ahoy, Matey” posts from a few weeks back.  This Markus Lupfer t-shirt (a vastly overpriced $170 at Net-A-Porter) pretty much sums up my approach to the look:

But what about marine life itself — beneath the sea rather than above deck?  I’ve been noticing a lot of accessories featuring clamshells, seahorses, starfish, and more — and I love it.  What could be better for my upcoming “Bachelorette Party Kick Off” at the beach house of my fellow fashion magpie and bridesmaid (I’ll call her Ms. On-the-Money — she’s one of those girls who always has just the right outfit for the occasion)?

Let’s start with the items on my current lust list.  I have literally begun the purchasing process for this Kate Spade clamshell ring 2,923 times ($125 at Nordstrom) — each time worrying that I might be going too big with this one:

Don’t get me wrong: I love an aggressively-sized cocktail ring.  But 1.5″ x 1.5″ on my tiny hand?  Hm.  I’ll mull it over and probably buy it anyway.  Kate Spade also has this adorable seahorse bangle up for grabs ($225, Kate Spade):

I’m bananas about this Pisces-perfect Emilio Pucci dress ($1,860 at Net-A-Porter) — can you imagine how hot it’d be with a late summer tan, some super-high white pumps (Fendi, $980, also Net-A-Porter), and an updo?  Love.

I’ve already shared with you my love of starfish.  I featured these precious studs by KEP Designs ($250) a few days ago and have been drooling over them since:

But how adorable is this delicate starfish charm on a chain by DogEared ($46 for sterling silver; $54 for gold-dipped)?  What a perfect gift for a good friend or a bridesmaid (hmm…my wedding is coming up in August) — or maybe just for myself:

One of my very dearest girlfriends from UVA gave me a Dogeared necklace with a solitary pearl on it for Christmas and I wear it every single day I’m not wearing a big statement piece.  Magpie Deal: you can get 20% off your order at Dogeared by entering the code LuckyBreaks5 at checkout!

If you’re a fan of the starfish, too, consider this bauble by Bounkit ($495, Marissa Collections):

I’m swooning for all of the aqua-studded pieces in the collection as well.

Other sea-creature featuring jewelry?  The covetable Mesi Jilly rings I blabbed out in my Tropical Punch post (definitely the most popular post to date — check it out if you haven’t seen it! — and side note: Miss Big City emailed me the other day to say that Jenna Lyons, the head designer over at J. Crizzle, must have been taking a note out of my book, because she just featured a new “Turks and Caicos” spread as well!).  The Jilly rings are insta-heirloom masterpieces — and I recently found out why: they’re all handmade in Italy and individually designed by Ms. Jilly herself.  Um.  Uh-may-zing.  You can pick one up for around $1,000 from Kirna Zabete:

I like the idea of wearing one with an airy white caftan on the beach (Calypso-Celle often has breezy sundress options and a decent sale section to boot — the tunic below is “The Aurora,” $135) and some metallic gold sandals (you know my “Thing” for K. Jacques — love ‘em — but these comparable Tabithas by J. Crew ring in at an affordable $88!):

I also like the idea of lounging by the beach all day in a coral print bikini (the one below is by the one-and-only Melissa Odabash, a very hip UK-based swimwear designer — $166, Madison L.A.):

Don’t mind if I do.  I’d throw on this airy batwing tunic, also by Melissa Odabash, and available through her own online boutique:

While you’re on the Odabash site, browse all of her tunics/cover-ups.  They are ridiculously chic.  Believe me — if you wind up putting down your plastic, you’ll seriously consider booking an impulse trip to St. Tropez just to have an adequate audience for your new beachwear’s debut.

If you’re more inclined towards the preppy, check out Lilly Pulitzer.  She has a bunch of coral print items out this season, including this bright bikini, available at Lilly Pulitzer’s eShop:

Continuing with the coral motif, consider splurging on this Simon Tu coral necklace:

You can pick it up at Vivre ($1,125), but KEP Designs has a similar style for about half the price ($660 — see it here).  I’d wear it with a simple strapless white dress — I’m thinking of one of those little embossed numbers that J. Crew has out every season and that we all own in 23 different colors (on sale now, $69, at JCrew):

With some metallic accessories or a pair of hot wedges and a raffia clutch?  Perf.

(Love the little turtles on the clutch above — perfect for this “Life Aquatic” theme.  You can snap it up at Vivre as well — $800, by Ismachseven.)  If you’re a little intimidated by the idea of wearing a bold coral necklace, why not get the same bright pop of color without the statement-making shape?  This cheery Anthropologie necklace is perfect — and only $28:

While you’re in the Anthro store, consider the lobster-print dress I was chit-chatting about a few weeks back.  It didn’t fit me properly, but that’s not to say you shouldn’t test the waters!  I saw one little chica wearing it at Foxfield and, while I wasn’t sure if it was Foxfield-appropriate, still found it made me smile ($138, Anthropologie):

You’d need to wear it with simple accessories — say, white Jack Rogers and a little white woven clutch.  Anything else would look a little overdone given the scale and whimsicality of the print.  Think lobsters are charming but find the above dress over-the-top?  Why not entertain with the style?  I’m nutso about Dabney Lee’s monogrammable lucite serving trays ($120):

Check out her other home goods as well; she also has adorable ice buckets, place mats, and napkins in a variety of bright graphic prints.  And they’re all personalizable.  And you know I love a monogram.  Her blog is delightful as well — Ms. Southern Belle, I totally envision your future children’s nursery to look just like the one she wrote about here.  Oh!  And while on the subject of the little ones — just had dinner two nights ago with Christine Meulemans, one of my little sister’s good friends from Wake Forest and just the most adorable girl ever.  She’s a super-talented photographer specializing in lifestyle and family portraiture — love her photography style, love her website!  Definitely need to keep her in mind for big moments down the road…

But back to sea-scape-inspired home decor: why not spruce up the bedroom with some coral-print sheets (these are from Williams-Sonoma)?

Or maybe add some coral-print pillows to the couch (Pottery Barn):

And — because I won’t be happy concluding this post until I feature a few little gems I’ve been stockpiling for just-the-right-post over the past few weeks — consider toting your life around in this adorable Henri Bendel carry-all ($128, Henri Bendel):

If you’re willing to go a bit bolder, check out this NOIR koi fish ring I scored about a year ago.  I’m obsessed with the NOIR line of cocktail rings — so fun, glitzy, whimsical.  They’ve designed a line of rings featuring all different kinds of animals, from owls to elephants, and they always draw a lot of “oohs and aahs” from a fashion-interested audience.  I tend to wear my little fish with a navy frilly J. Crew blouse, skinny jeans, and some kicky shoes for a dinner out with friends:

And finally: though the pirate is not officially an aquatic life-form, he looms large in oceatic iconography, and I’d be remiss to omit this adorable little pirate sarong by Tara Matthews ($68, TheOutnet):

With a little white bikini and some gold sandals?  I’d be happy as a clam.

Candy Striping

In Accessories, Cocktail Dresses, Home Decor, Jewelry, Monograms, Shoes, Sundresses on April 15, 2010 at 10:08 pm

So I have a confession: I get weekly and, occasionally, bi-weekly (!) manicures.  Shame on me.  Every time I head to Vicky’s (best nail salon in D.C., hands down — and conveniently located a block away from in Georgetown), I tell myself “You know, you should really try a new color.”  And every time I make a bee-line for Essie’s Lollipop.

Well, that’s not true.  Sometimes I’ll branch out and try Geranium or Escapades, but let’s be honest: they’re all pretty much the same — the cheeriest, glossiest (lolli-)pop of color.  Vicky recently joked with me about my fascination with red (“Do you wear anything else?”) and suddenly I realized I was, in fact, sporting not only lollipop-red nail lacquer but a lollipop-red ruffle coat (Juicy Couture’s Poinsettia Coat):

and, over a frilly white blouse (J. Crew):

And lollipop-red Jackie cardigan (also by J. Crew):

In essence, I was candy-striping my way through winter.

It make sense: traditionally, candy stripers wear red-and-white get-ups to boost morale while visiting patients in hospitals; no wonder I was gravitating toward cherry red!  It was powering me though the lingering grayness of late winter / early spring.  I mean — wouldn’t these red kicks put a little pep in your step?

(The first pair is quite a find — $39 by Chinese Laundry!  They bring me back to my childhood, when I sported “Jellies” for weeks on an end.  Word to the wise: Missoni has a similar “Jellie throwback” style out this season, and Sassanova is selling them in a hot pink color with a signature Missoni print fabric bow.  They are pre-cious.  The second pair above are classic Kate Spade.)  Or why not brighten your day with these adorable underpinnings by the one and only Phillip Lim (available, for more than a pretty penny, through Net-A-Porter):

Or, for the truly fashion-forward, this happy nod-to-the-50s frock:

On the runway, Jacobs styled the dress with a belt, which leads me to believe that I would never be able to wear it in “real life” (it’s also conveniently well out of my price range) — I’m envisioning myself engulfed in voluminous, definitionless organza.  Looking for a more wearable iteration of the same, retro-cheery look?  Try Kate Spade’s Jillian dress:

You’d almost need to wear them with a nude or pale pink pump like the Louboutin I featured in yesterday’s post.  If you’re not so much into the head-to-toe look, a pop of cherry red here or there will be enough of a mood-booster to propel you through the day.  Imagine sporting this cute Kate Spade bag (the “Plisse Priti,” on sale now at the KS website):

Or this bow-heavy tote, by Augustina (London and Toronto-based):

(It’s a hair more affordable than the classic Valentino bow bag.)  I imagine myself wearing one of them with a crisp white oxford (no frills or details), some cigarette-leg dark-wash jeans, and some kickin flats, like these, by Guiseppe Zanotti (on sale now for $220 at FootCandyShoes, one of my personal favorite eRetailers — they have a killer sale section):

Maybe you’d just want some retro-chic Wayfarers, a la Rachel Bilson, or an eye-catching “red-hot” necklace like this one, by Bettina Louise ($800, vivre.com)?

Or maybe, in true “candy-striper” fashion, you want to entertain some guests?  I’d love to host with one of these Fontaine Maury personalized melamine trays (I snagged a green and navy version with my new married initials on it, as I mentioned in my “Certified Monogram Fanatic” post):

You could serve up some old-fashioned cocktails with some old-fashioned paper straws (I’ve seen them sold at Crate & Barrel in seasons past, but also know that you can pick them up on the cheap — $3 for 50 — at kikkerlandshop.com):

If you’re looking to take the look literal, I dig this Vivienne Westwood (on sale at TheOutnet.com):

To avoid looking like a walking peppermint stick, I’d tone down the accessories — just some black wayfarers or a pair of oversized, jet-black sunnies.  These, by Oliver Peoples, should do the trick:

You’d also need a big, black “I’m super classy” bag, like this one, which I got from my wonderful mother for Christmas (the Kate Spade Poppy Fields Tote in black, still available at zappos.com):

Slip into a pair of simple black flats (preferably patent), and you’re ready to go.  But before I skip off in my own mood-boosting cherry red, I’ll leave you with a few drool-worthy footwear options:

(Jimmy Choo.)

(Valentino.)

(Also Valentino.)

Now that’s enough to put you on a day-long fashion high.

The Fashion Magpie, Certified Monogram Fanatic

In Home Decor, Monograms on April 5, 2010 at 2:08 pm

You may have noticed my “thing” for monograms over the past few posts.  First it was a monogrammed shower curtain for the bathroom:

Then it was a Jack & Lulu framed monogram:

I don’t know what it is, but I just love personalizing things with my own initials.  On the one hand, it just feels “old school” — like you’re creating heirlooms left and right that you can pass along to generations in the future.  On the other hand, the types of monogrammed products that exist are just so preppy and cute.  Over the past few weeks, I’ve stumbled upon a number of darling home accents that I’ve had monogrammed.  Take, for example, a melamine monogrammed tray from Fontaine Maury:

Or the ultimate in preppy outdoor BBQ entertaining — the original monogrammed Tervis tumbler:

A snagged a set of four with a matching ice bucket featuring my new married initials, but then also fell in love with Williams-Sonoma’s variation (their duraclear tumblers), so I added these to my registry:

While we’re on the subject of entertaining, why not have some monogrammed cocktail napkins, like these (also from Williama-Sonoma):

Horchow has a “monogram shop” on their website — tons of personalizable party goods (including frosted cups, drink stirrers, and even wrapping paper!)  They can be a bit pricey, but wait for one of their epic “30% off everything” coupons, and you’ll be good to go.  I could go on and on — the possibilities are endless!  Monogrammed bed linens from Pottery Barn, engraved Julep cups, embossed Longchamp luggage…but I’ll conclude with one of my new discoveries: the MacBeth Collection.  I discovered the site while looking for a preppy printed container to hold some gift bags at my wedding reception, and now I’m considering having a personalized trash can to accent my bathroom’s navy nautical theme:

(You can have any of their products personalized, and they come in a huge range of bright, fun prints.)  Until next time…

Ahoy, matey!

In Home Decor, Monograms on April 1, 2010 at 6:45 pm

Two days ago, I wrote a post on the nautical trend in fashion.  When I began browsing for some bathroom decor ideas for my new apartment with my soon-to-be-husband, something clicked: why not have a nautical theme in there?  Nothing too cheesy or over the top — just crisp navy trim, white frames, silver Julep accents, maybe a large print on the wall.

Let’s start with the basics: a dramatic white-with-navy-monogram-and-trim shower curtain (by Matouk, available at Neiman Marcus for $328):

Then we’ll add some plush navy towels by Ralph Lauren — monogrammed, of course! (Side note: my favorite home goods e-retailer, horchow.com, often runs special “event pricing” on RL towels and feature free — or extremely low-cost — monogramming.  I’ve had my friends’ initials monogrammed on towel sets and given them away as gifts!)

And maybe a couple of printed towels to spice things up (like these, by Ralph Lauren as well):

I’m envisioning re-purposing a couple of the engraved Julep cups I snagged from potterybarn.com for our toothbrush holder, cotton swabs, etc:

For the walls, I have a few ideas.  One: for the wedding ceremony, I commissioned a vintage-style hand-painted sign that has our name and our wedding date on it after browsing etsy.com (great spot for some unique artsy / graphic design products — most purveyors will customize their products to your specifications, which is always neat).  Though a number of different Etsy shops/designers offer similar products, I snagged mine from Funki Folk Art’s shop because I liked the rustic style, chipped wood, and size.  You can buy one at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Funkifolkart

At any rate, I am going to repurpose the sign and hang it in the bathroom — it just seems appropriate for a “out on the heavy seas” look — especially if I tie navy or yellow ribbon through the loops and hang it up by the bow.  At the other end of the spectrum, I’m thinking of hanging one of Jack and Lulu’s framed monograms (just can’t get enough of the personalized products!  Am I going overboard?) in a navy and green or navy and yellow print (they come framed in big white wood frames):

I figure my fiance will love the nautical theme for two reasons: 1) he loves sailing and he loves Ralph Lauren — i.e. all things preppy and nautical-inspired; b) his current bathroom at his bachelor pad is in navy and black-watch-tartan, so we can repurpose some of his towels in our new space.

He also has this neat old brown wood chest that he currently uses to store surplus toothpaste, advil, and other toiletries — that might be a nice way to round out the theme…

Decorating the Newlywed Nest

In Home Decor, Monograms on March 31, 2010 at 12:45 am

Despite the fact that I still have a number of wedding to-dos on my list, I couldn’t help but get excited about the prospect of decorating my new home.  Sure…we haven’t found that “home” yet, but that didn’t stop me from spending hours poring over my favorite home design / bedding websites in search of the perfect gender-neutral bedroom and bathroom accoutrements.  My first stop: horchow.com.  Aside from the fact that they run special discounts regularly (every couple of weeks I receive “extra 30% off all purchase” coupons in my inbox and absolutely drool over the possibilities), they have a nice range of bedding options, from the ornate/over-the-top/it-looks-like-it’s-from-medieval-times to the graphic/contemporary/looks-like-it’s-from-the-MoMa.

While I would never in a million years have guessed it, I fell in love with the platinum shade from Pine Cone Hill’s Genevieve collection.  Since I have a white wainscotted bedframe from Crate & Barrel, it will look wonderfully “bridal” while still fresh and inviting…not to mention relatively gender-neutral, which is a big concern of my fiance’s.  (My bedroom is currently dusty rose pink with sage green accents.  All of my bedding is by Matouk, a GREAT bedding brand.  At any rate — it’s not exactly “guy” territory.)  Look at this lovely palette and contrast of textures:

The plan is to have the platinum rosary quilt covering the majority of the bed, the patterned coverlet folded at the bottom, and a mix of quilted and patterned shams at the top.  To play off of the airiness of the bed, I’m considering purchasing this mirrored bed side table from Pottery Barn:

I think it will add interest to the room and break up the “all white” monotony of my bedroom furniture.  Plus, I just love a little mirrored accent here or there.  Vintage and chic.  I can just imagine a little silver julep cup (I just had a couple monogrammed with our new initials! — I ordered them from Pottery Barn) filled with white hydrangea on the bedside table.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I was slightly motivated to pursue the neutral color palette after drooling over Charlotte York’s apartment from “Sex and the City.”  Sure, my reference to SATC is slightly dated, but the decor of her apartment was just jaw-dropping.  Take a look and drool.

Eventually, I’d love to upgrade to an upholstered bed-frame and dark wood furniture.  I think this would ENSURE that my fiance (by then — husband!) feels as though he is in an apartment that is not in any way an affront to his masculinity…