GARDEN HIDEAWAY

[this ones a blooper :) but I thought it still looked cool, so I figured I'd share it]

When there's beautiful sunshine don't waste it,

Elisa

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FASHION MUSE

So I have a slight obsession with a few trendsetters back in the 60's, one of my favorites though is Andy Warhol's muse, Edie Sedgwick. Makeup was a huge creative outlet for Edie, she was famous for her black eyes, false eyelashes and pale lips. Edie inspired the fashion world more than anything else, with her short hair, huge earrings, furs, dark eyebrows and ultra high heels. It was very avant-garde during her generation. And with spring and summer here it's the perfect time to wear some Edie-inspired outfits, even if it's just taking little pieces and seeing how they work with your style.  It's simple! 

She wore everything with opaque black stockings, striped t-shirts and sweaters (anything with a boatneck); minidresses and berets were all so her favorite. Who's your favorite fashion icon?

"I'll have to put more earrings on. I bet that someone could analyze me and tell my condition by my earrings..." Edie Sedgwick

xoxo,
Jackie

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POCKET FULL OF GOODNESS

This fresh and delicious meal is great for any lazy Sunday afternoon.  Its super quick and tasty, so you can be sure to spend your time enjoying the day, not your kitchen clean up.  Its low cal and very versatile!  I'll give you my recipe and then show you some other options.

Original Recipe:

Chop lettuce, red onion, tomato

Tear up slices of pepper crusted roast beef (they come in deli sandwich packages for ease)

Cut a sliver off the top of a pita pocket and stuff above ingredients

Lightly sprinkle lite ranch or lite italian

Pinch top of pita closed and shake to mix up contents

Pair with sliced and lightly sugared strawberries and a glass of ice cold water

Other variations that would be great are:

Grilled chicken breast pita and couscous

Turkey breast pita and salsa with chips

Honey ham pita and apple sauce

All you need now is a towel, the stereo and some sunshine,

Elisa

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LUSH

Sorry for the late post, I had a suprise visit from my boyfriend this weekend; I only get to see once a month since he lives all the way in Buffalo! Now that he's gone I'm stuck inside on this rainy gloomy day, so with the night off from work and nothing to do, a night of pampering sounds good to me! There's nothing better than relaxing in a hot bubble bath, with a good book and a nice avocado facial mask for the night. So I thought I'd share one of my favorite beauty stores, that I'm addicted too, called Lush. They specialize in selling all vegetarian and vegan cosmetic products, they're all eco friendly right down to the packaging! All of the products are made fresh with organic fruit and vegetables, essential oils and safe synthetics. They are all made by hand using little or no preservatives, and are delivered to each of their stores daily, so you know what your buying that day is newly made.

 

Here are some of my favorite products from them, that I highly recommend are: 

Coal face - This facial bar is made with powdered charcoal, which is an amazing exfoliator and absorber of excess oils. They add in rosewood and sandalwood to soothe and calm.

Sugar Babe Sugar Scrub - This one smells smells like flowers and honey, (the perfume is made with mimosa and ylang ylang blossoms) and has a soft coconut oil center to moisturize your skin while you scrub it clean.

French Kiss Bath Bomb - This bath bomb is filled with traditional french oils and made with lavender, rosemary and thyme bubbles. Gently crumble under a running faucet and sink into the steamy purple water.

xoxo,
Jackie

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POO ON YOU, STOMACH FLU

Hi guys! Sorry for the delayed post, the stomach flu attacked me yesterday! So I've been trying to sleep it off.  I could have gotten it from two places, either my loving boyfriend or my lovely coworkers; either way, this thing is ravaging Pittsburgh!  I'll leave you with some of my current musings, dreams and inspirations [since any picture of me could be scary].

{google images/the showmanship/art.com/architectural classics.com/knit purl and stitch.com}

To pretty places in your head,

Elisa

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SHOPPING IN NEW YORK CITY

While shopping in Soho over the weekend we came across a gorgeous little jewelry boutique called Lunessa, which features exceptional fine and designer jewelry. The boutique showcases the owner and designer's jewelry, as well as a selection of carefully curated artisan collections. The prices range from $20 to $700 and up, they even offer jewelry making classes to show you ways to make your old jewelry look new and trendy! The stores only been around since 2005 but has already gained a reputation for collaborations with the likes of Bridal designer Jeny Lee, cosmetics entrepreneur Bobbi Brown and top name publications (New York Times, Ny Magazine, Elle, Lucky, InStyle Weddings, Seventeen, Manhattan Bride, The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Time Out NY). You can check out her online store at www.lunessa.com

Another boutique that we ran into was called Wink, located in Soho. They carry designers such as Alice and Olivia and Free People, and they also carry their own line called Wink. You can see a few peices below from their collection, I'm in love with the blush pink blazer with the scalloped hem! They also have an online store that you can checkout at www.winknyc.com!

xoxo,
Jackie

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WE MET AS STRANGERS IN THE NIGHT

Where as my friend blurted out Ne-Yo, I responded with Frank...Frank Sinatra that is.  I was channeling comfort, menswear and something quite out-of-the-box for me [anything outside of girly].  It was my first day back to reality after my trip to NYC; so I decided to take the knock out and wear ALL my New York purchases.

The fedora is actually from Pittburgh's Macys, thanks to Jackie.  It cost her $3 on sale! But she decided it wasn't for her...and I reaped the benefits, for free...what a STEAL!? Thanks Jackie!

This blazer is a purchase from Chinatown.  The stores name is Amsterdam, and they don't have a site I can link you too unfortunately; however, it does give you a reason to go to New York!  It only cost me $20!

Its hard to see these great new shoes in the poor lighting [sorry about that], but I've worn them everyday...kinda gross, I know!  I like the thick suede anklets and big silver buckles.  I bought these babies near Time Square, again for a STEALY price of $15! I already had the jeans, the white tee and the classic jewelry, so this new look only cost me $35! 

How do you guys feel about menswear inspired clothing for women?  How do you wear your favorite bf blazer or fedora? Shoot me some ideas and maybe you'll see them appear on here ;)

Steal your boyfriend's style!

Elisa

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SHOPPING IN NEW YORK CITY

So while we were in NYC one of my favorite stores that we came across was Mango. I've heard a lot about them so I figured I would check them out. What's nice about the store is that there's something for everyone; the prices range from $40.00 to $150.00. Below I picked a few key pieces from their Spring collection that you can purchase online, I'm in love with the jean dress on the bottom right! Or check out their online store for yourself and while your there they also have an amazing blog filled with styling tips! www.mango.com

We also came across this cute little designer consignment store in Soho, its located on 101 Thompson street between Prince and Spring. INA consignment stores are one of the best and most established designer consignment stores in NYC they have five other locations selling only the best designer resale merchandise, or you can even purchase their merchandise at their online ebay store. You can find merchandise ranging from vintage Chanel bags to Alexander McQueen.

xoxo,
Jackie

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FROM NYC VIRGIN TO NEW YORKER

Jackie and I in NYC, my first trip!

Our trip started on a bus in Pittsburgh at 11pm Friday; when we arrived in New York City at 7am Saturday,  we were sleepless and kinda grubby...but no one could take away our excitement, not even our early-morning-rainy-umbrellaless-walk through Central Park.

The rainy castle we found in Central Park.

After our adventure of dodging raindrops and cyclists, we hopped on a subway and rode to 42nd street, where I enjoyed one of the best toasted everything bagel & green tea breakfasts I've had in a long time, via EuropAn.  This place had great food, and was actually pretty reasonable for NYC.  It had a great atmosphere and it attracted quite a variety of people; I'm not sure how many of the foreigners were accidental and how many were attracted to the like-their-home-country euro feel.

Here is Jackie and a few of our friends enjoying breakfast at EuropAn.

We walked a few blocks where we started our day of shopping!  The first stop was a touristy-like store where I snatched this great scarf for six bucks!  My friends gathered there NYC postcards, key chains and tee shirts here.  We moved on soaking up all the lights and characters we passed.

Great scarf (in my left hand) you'll be seeing again soon, I'm sure!

We made it to this huge bargain store; it had rows and rows of everything from scarves, to perfumes to luggage.  This is where I found my lovelies (below).  I've acquired quite a little crush on the strappy gladiator sandals with bold ankles.  So I snagged these suckers as soon as I saw them; cute with the purple toe nail polish if I say so myself.  And you'll never guess how much!  Okay I'll tell you....$15 dollars!  I wore them around the house last night :)

My little lover shoes :)

After a few stops at fabric stores we hopped in a cab and took off to Canal St.  We spent hours scouring the streets, bargaining down prices and sneaking into back rooms and basements to buy great (knock off) purses...but shhh, don't tell anyone!

Here were some of our  finds!

We made our way to Soho were we found all the cutest little boutiques and a yummy cuban restaurant-my one must haves for the trip.  My dad is cuban, and while I was growing up we stayed with my Abuela and Abuelo for a while (grandma and grandpa in spanish), where I ate the most delicious and heart clogging meals.  Being that Pittsburgh lacks much of a cuban culture, I go without.  So my goal was to find a great home-cooked cuban meal; the place we ate had good tasting food but, it wasn't all I was hoping for.  For dessert later we went to Dylan's Candy Bar, any kids (or big kids) heaven.  Dylan, the owner, is the daughter of Ralph Lauren, so we felt it appropriate to stop by.

A different kind of cuban food.

Our visit to Dylan's

After a long day of shopping and exploring we made our way to Starbucks where Jackie and I rested our feet till the 20 block trek back to the bus.  We got back to Pitt around 6am Sunday, I made my way to my boyfriend's house and snuck into bed.  When I woke up later, it really all felt like an exciting dream.

Beautiful homes we passed, and I drooled over ;)

You have to at least visit,

Elisa

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GARDEN COLLECTION

So yesterday Elisa and I went around in search for some cute outfits for our trip to New York City tonight, and we came across the H&M Garden Collection. I've heard about it and have seen a few pictures from their look books but wasn't all that impressed; however, when we got there last night I couldn't look at anything else! Every piece in the line is so cute and floral and girly.  Above are a few of my favorite pieces. I was kind of bummed they didn't have the strapless red sweetheart dress but there's always NYC! For those of you that aren't familiar with the Garden Collection, it was just revealed last month and it is an eco-chic line made from recycled polyester, organic cotton and organic linen.

Make sure to check back next week to see all the fashions from our trip to New York City!

xoxo,
Jackie

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STREET STYLE: AN URBAN SPRING-BLOSSOM

Meet Kimmi! A fashion student at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, a model, and kick ass quirky girl!  Shes got tons of cool tattoos, most are covered by her cardi, but you can see some peaking out on her right arm.  Unfortunately, we were both running to class so instead of telling you what she wore, I'll show you how to get the look.

You can get a floral romper here

And a cardigan here

A great accent belt here

Super cute cowboy boots here

And that all too adorable headband here

Get creative when you mix and match,

Elisa

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HOW TO WEAR: SUMMER SHORTS

With the warm weather finally arriving it's time to sport those sexy summer shorts! Above, theres a few tips on what styles better fit your body type. All of the shorts shown are from anthropologie (one of my favorites), jcrew, and saks. My personal favorite are the pink pastel bermudas that you can find over at Anthropologie! Also make sure you check out the exclusive video over at vogue for the latest in the trends for summer shorts (with lots of cute picks from h&m)!

xoxo,
Jackie

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WITH GREY SKIES COME CUDDLY MOODS & PIROUETTES IN THE RAIN

I must say that if I had to think of one word to describe my mood on days like these-grey, rainy, chilly- I'd have to say CUDDLY.  The idea of putting on my biggest, coziest sweater, making a hot cup of tea and nuzzling up to my best friend (who happens to be my boyfriend), makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.

I found this sweater at the top of my laundry basket and was pleasantly surprised at how well it fit and how lovely it draped.  What a great way to add to your wardrobe, items just mysteriously materializing...YES!  That is, until your mom comes home and notices your wearing one of her favorite tops...the "finders keepers" saying didn't help.

If I told you I wasn't a sucker for leg warmers, or anything dance wear inspired, I'd be lying.  When I put on this yummy grey sweater it reminded me of the days I spent in ballet, layering my warm ups and tights and leotards.  The cozy, casualness of dance attire has always made me feel at home.  So when the stars aligned-mysteriously perfect fitting sweater, rainy, grey skies and the never tiring desire to cuddle- I chose to channel my ballet days and pirouette in the rain.

Dance like no one's watching,

Elisa

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SEX AND THE CITY 2

I was so happy to finally see that the Sex and the City 2 trailer came out the other day! I've been watching them for years and have been waiting for the second movie for whats seemed like forever. The preview and the fashions look like its going to be even better than the first (you won't even believe what ex-boyfriend Carrie runs into)! So heres a quick peak at the trailer for all you fashionistas !

xoxo,
Jackie

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BOW TIED

I love creating unexpected juxtapositions, like this combo: a frilly blouse vs. a menswear inspired vest and bf jeans.  I wanted to be warm on this rainy Spring day, but I didn't want to compromise cuteness.  So I wrapped my legs in jeans and brought interest with a detailed top and a funky hair-do...something I usually skip.  Take a good look at the bow on my blouse, its right where a man's bow tie would be...subtle huh? ;)

I loved my girly '50s inspired feather hair clip!  I got it in a goodie bag!  I go to school with the girl who made them, Talia.  She said it was super easy! Just glue a few feather on a big hair clip and...tah dah!

Try out the menswear look but add all your girly accessories and see what you come up with!  Just because you're not wearing a body con dress or showing skin doesn't mean you can't be sexy.

Reinvent sexy,

Elisa

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HOW TO: STYLE THE BODY-CON SKIRT

This body con skirt is a great green color for spring!  I love how they pair it with the "go-to" blazer and then a sequin jacket for night!  The possibilities are endless with a simple skirt like this one!  How'd you wear?  Any cool color combinations you'd try?

Every piece can make multiple outfits,

Elisa

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PITTSBURGHS BEST KEPT SECRET

You know those little shops and diners you randomly stumble onto and they end up having amazing food and you wonder why you've just now decided to stop there? Well this past weekend I was on the Southside and I've heard alot about this restaurant called The Zenith, I finally decided to stop in to try it since I was passing by and I have to say if you havent went yet this place is a must! The Zenith is an art gallery/ vintage shop/ restaurant so what's nice is while your waiting for your food you can shop. The other thing about The Zenith is that they're menu's all vegan! The restaurants even filled with funky antique decor that you can buy right down to the chairs that your sitting on! I decided to get the peanut noodles with almond french toast (and blueberry topping!) with a cherry iced tea, even if your not vegetarian theres something on the menu for everyone, you can check out the menu and hours here! Theres been alot of great reviews from the place such as the one that was on sweetcakesandmilkshakes.com which used to be based in Pittsburgh, so make sure you stop in to try it I promsie you wont be disappointed!

xoxo,
Jackie

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A SPRING DAY'S LUNCH

One of my last days of spring break was spent soaking up the sun and eating one of the best lunches I've had in a while!  Have you ever tried just eating an array of sides and appetizers for a lunch or dinner?  This meal was inspired by my trip to Toronto [which you can see here].  I LOVE goat cheese and I LOVE balsamic; but together....WOW!  And I've just discovered the name of this delicious root veggie I've stumbled upon a few times, and LOVED as well...turnips!  Bruschetta is always fabulous, but have you tried artichoke bruschetta? You should!  So here is how I combined all these great elements.

What I Did:

Sliced baguette

Spread balsamic gaze

Spread goat cheese

Drowned in Artichoke Bruschetta

side of

Roasted Turnips

paired with

Raspberry Lemonade

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DESIGNER TO WATCH: JASON WU

One up and coming designer to watch is Jason Wu. You may have heard of him, not too long ago he got a lot of attention when Michelle Obama wore one of his gowns on the inauguration night. Here's a peek at his Spring RTW 2010 show; the collection features very electric colors and abbreviated hemlines.  Wu wanted to recreate casual, everyday pieces of American sportswear: like the denim silk rompers resembling the 40s, and the tulip skirt with a black tee, and the striped multi-colored Swarvoski crystals.  Designers are all about reinventing the 40s, but Wu does it awesomely!

xoxo,
Jackie

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TREATED LIKE A PRINCESS IN QUEEN CITY

 My Christmas present from my boyfriend this year was a trip of my choice!  So being that we could both enjoy night life in Toronto (drinking is 19+) we chose to go there.  Here is the trench Doug got me, the beautiful architecture, funky clothes and delicious food we ate:

The Well Traveled Traveler:

Vera Moda Trench from The Bay (Toronto), HnM Button Up, 
Charlotte Russe Boots and Jupe Boutique Tote

Bruschetta, Goat Cheese Appetizer:

Brownstone Bistro on Yonge St

The CN Tower, 360 Restaurant:

Enjoying Great Food and Wine in the Sky







Shopping Around Town:
Iron Fist Pumps, HnM Scarves, Cool Flower Display









Awesome Architecture around Town 

This awesome adventure, and awesome post, was made possible by this handsome guy:

You should venture over the border,

Elisa

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