Going Green

The goods:
• dress from Zara
• wedges from Boutique 9 (I also love these)
• vintage silver necklace
 

Nothing says spring like a bright, bold hue (and this is coming from a girl who sticks to mostly black and white basics). I love Zara for it's clean classic silhouettes, I just tend to gravitate toward the neutrals and dark colors, but this kelly green number with it's cut in top and flirty skirt was perfect for my sister's rehearsal dinner last week. I dressed it up with my fave nude wedges and bright silver necklace, but I definitely plan to wear this frock with flat sandals to one of the fun fests this summer.  

Have a Fantastic Weekend!

Happy weekend all! It's going to be an action-packed weekend, what with the dynamic duo of the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo right around the corner. Saturday is supposed to be a lovely day in Chicago so it will no doubt be a fun day around town ...

Also this weekend ...

• It's the one weekend a year that I love going to the warehouse of a bar, Joe's on Weed, to watch the Derby and place a few dollar bets next door at the OTB. Even better, when the weather is nice you can sit outside (and still watch the race on their outdoor TVs). 

• If you're heading to a party, or just enjoying the race from the comfort of your very own couch, it's always fun to make a festive cocktail for the event – so in light of the dual "holiday", whip up a Mint Julep Margarita! Sounds like the tastiest, best of both worlds to me. 

• Or instead of drinking the day away, head to Plumbers Hall for the Modern Vintage Chicago sale. This is one seriously great event, full of fantastic finds (past scores include my vintage Chanel pleated skirt and floral maxi).

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of Tablespoon

Midi on My Mind

The goods:
• top from Zara (also love this one)
• skirt and clutch, my grandmother's
• pumps from Aldo
 

After searching what seems like forever for the perfect black high-waisted midi pencil skirt (quite the checklist), I end up finding it in my grandmother's closet. I love the pleats, the pockets, and the way it pairs perfectly with this white dolman sleeve crop top (which I wondered how to pair for a while). I have no problem with all black and white, but I love this deep red clutch she had and swiped on my favorite deep red lipstick for a pop of color. Of course now I'm seeing these skirts everywhere and I'm loving this one from ASOS.

Have a Sale-Filled Weekend!

It's officially spring and the weather is juuust starting to cooperate, which means it's time to do some spring cleaning! (which really means just making room for new fun finds). There are a ton of sales going on this weekend, all of them awesome and not to be missed ...

• Hope you got your tix for the Gilt City Warehouse sale happening tomorrow (don't worry, you can get them here). Big, huge brands up to 90% off ... those are some serious deals to be had!

• If vintage is more your thing, swing by the Randolph Street Market Saturday or Sunday to score anything and everything from vintage baubles to antique home goods.

• Spring cleaning isn't just for the closet – swap out your tired looking lamp or side chair with a vintage-inspired piece from the Bonus Jayson Home Warehouse Sale happening tomorrow only! If it's anything like their annual fall warehouse sale, get there early, grab what you can and enjoy!

• Snag new duds online too with all of the friends and family sales going on: Take an extra 25% off Theory's sale with code TSPRINGFF, and 25% off Tory Burch's with code FRIENDLY, and 30-50% off J.Crew with code GOSHOP.

Happy shopping!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

Plaid Prep

The goods:
• plaid shirt, my grandmother's (also love this classic)
• skinny navy cords from J.Crew (also loving these Lauren Conrad ones!)
• heels from Zara (these kitten heel sling backs are perfect for spring)
• bag by Michael Kors
• vintage pearls
 

Often times the easiest pieces make casual, chic ensembles. This plaid shirt was uncovered from my grandmother's closet – I paired it here with my super soft cords from J.Crew. Now, normally that combo doesn't scream style ... but add high heels and pearls and I'm comfy and current. This shirt is also a great casual counterpart to a slim pencil skirt ... add that (and now that it's warm, a bit of tanning lotion to these white gams) and this look is a plaid professional look.

High-Waisted Vintage

The goods:
• my grandmother's skirt, belt, and bag
• Zara crop top (similar one here, and I also love this ballet-inspired one)
• Zara pumps (similar ones here)
 

Turns out my grandmother hid some gems in the depths of her closet for years. I uncovered this fantastic high-waisted midi skirt, which happened to fit and was just begging to be paired with my black cropped top (finally a high enough waist - and inch is pretty much all I'm willing bare there). Paired with this classic leather bag that she also stowed away, I'm balancing vintage with new in this black and tan. 

Homeward Bound

It may not have been an Alaskan adventure or Route 66, but Steve and I found hidden gems along our road trip from New Jersey home to Chicago. Legs of the trip seemed to alternate between scenic and lovely, to flat and, well, boring, but we had fun! Some highlights below ... 

 

Clockwise from top:
• Steve with our new (old) SUV. I love driving bigger cars so I was excited to take this baby out on the open road.

• Hershey, PA is exactly like my inner 6 year old imagined it – everything is chocolate related! The street lamps resembled Kisses, roads are named after the candy bars, and there is even a chocolate theme park in it's center!

• My family used to stop at Big Boy when we went up to Wisconsin, but since that one closed years ago, I hadn't spotted one since ... turns out he just moved out east a little (and west to California, and north to Michigan).

• There were covered bridges along our entire trip – sure we had to exit the expressway to spot them, but shots like this were worth it.

• Steve and I have a weakness for antique malls. We love sifting through the endless aisles of old loot to spot those gems. This time we came back with a brass bed, vintage patio furniture, and a pedestal table (good thing we picked up that SUV!)

• Many of the smaller towns we stopped in had the most adorable little buildings. A little town called Olmstead Falls restored their "downtown" to it's original glory, so sights like this amazing little house weren't uncommon. 

Have a Perfect Spring Weekend!

Remember how Steve and I were going to roadtrip from Arkansas, through Nashville, back to Chicago? Yeah, that didn't happen. New plan: We're flying to New Jersey (to pick up our new car) and roadtripping home from there. We're pretty pumped to try our first philly cheese steak in Pittsburg (and I really want to ride this!), and hit some antique malls and breweries on the way home (taking the beer to go of course, we don't drink and drive).

Also this weekend ...

• It's supposed to amazing weather Saturday in Chicago (of course we're away that day - sigh). Get yourself over to Big Star early and revel in the perfect patio day.

• Maybe you're not a perfect weather kinda person – or you have an affinity for silent films – either way, head to the Music Box for the Charlie Chaplin 100th anniversary marathon.

• Friday through Sunday, the Chicago Botanic Gardens is hosting their Antiques and Garden Fair. Lovely weather, lovely gardens, amazing antique finds? What more could you ask for?

Have a great weekend and I'll be back on TUESDAY.

Photo courtesy of Etsy

The Heirloom Shirt

The goods:
• grandmother's shirt
• jeans by Citizens of Humanity
• grandfather's watch - similar here 

It's hard to top the perfect white button down shirt – but my grandmother did it when she had this one monogrammed, adding a perfect but subtle detail that turns this classic into an heirloom. Spotting the lovely small, bright red lettering on the cuff gave me a thought – what a fun hand-me-down to have made and pass from generation to generation. In that case, it's important to go for a quality shirt, one that can withstand washings and won't loose too much of it's luster over time. I think it's time we bring back this delicate personalized detail and leave a classy and fashionable legacy.

Land's End and JCrew both offer monogram services on oxford shirts. 

Retro Wrist Candy

Last week I told you about my glamorous grandmother and her accessories, but behind every stylish woman is a dapper gent. My grandfather had a style all his own as well, including bolo ties, rings, and his bright, two-tone watches (which I was thrilled to uncover at my Nana's house over the weekend). He wasn't a big spender, but he loved a little bling, so while it's no Rolex, I love this retro timepiece just the same. 

Below are a few similar finds, some new, some vintage, all just the right balance of fashion and flashy ...

From Top: Men's two tone Peugeot watch  //  Michael Kors chronograph two tone watch  //  vintage Elgin men's watch   //  vintage Gruen two tone, similar to mine

Beaded Bargain

The goods:
• vintage beaded jacket
• black trousers by Catherine Malandrino
• rose gold leather clutch from Gap
• pumps from Zara
• earrings from Forever21 

Like any good vintage junkie, I snap up any pretty piece that I spot even if I have no where to wear it at the time (there is a way to style pretty much any and everything). I saw this black and white beaded jacket – in perfect condition – at Salvation Army for $8 (a no brainer). I paired it with these black trousers for a friend's store opening last week, keeping accessories and hair/makeup to a minimum – I already had a whole lotta sparkle happening. I love the weight of quality pieces like this, and would love it with skinny blue jeans and black sandals for a spring night out.

On a routine scan of Etsy, I came across this similar one which I love!

Have a Great Weekend!

Whoa, it's already Friday! The good news about this weekend is we spring ahead, meaning we get those nice, long sunny days (now, it'd be awesome if spring weather actually came along with it). 

Also this weekend ...

• Steve and I have been going brunch-crazy these past few weekends – meeting friends and making the most of Sunday-Fundays. One of my new fave spots – Lady Gregory's in Andersonville (those blue cheese chips did not disappoint!). 

• A bunch of the coolest spots in Wicker Park are having a giant warehouse sale this weekend. Score sweet duds from Penelope's, amazing vintage from my fave Kokorokoko, and more baubles than you can fit in your jewelry box.

• Have you seen the amazing new ad for Dove chocolate starring none other than Mrs. Audrey Hepburn?! It's pretty incredible, and just as dreamy as all of her movies.

Have a great "spring" weekend!

Photo courtesy of Etsy

Black & Tan

The goods:
• H&M turtleneck
• vintage Chanel skirt
• HUE tights
• Candela boots 

While I usually stick to neutrals and black (hey, it's at least 75% of my wardrobe), I do like to play with proportions. With a voluminous aline skirt, I always tuck a tight fitting top into it and pair it with slim boots or tights and ankle boots. My go-to tight top in winter is a black turtleneck. Every woman should have a good one, but think about replacing it every couple years once it starts to show signs of wear. This was my year to stock up and it was surprisingly hard to track down, but I finally had luck at Club Monaco and H&M ... where you can likely find them on sale now since spring is in the air!

Have a Great Weekend!

Happy winter weekend! It's been a cold week, but we're lucky to get a "warm up" this weekend (we're looking at near 30 degrees, people!). If you're like me and just want to hibernate in this weather, there are plenty of awesome online sales going on right now ...

• Theory is having their online warehouse sale, with items up to 80% off (!). If I could choose one brand to build my wardrobe, it would be Theory, so picking favorite items too hard (but I adore these, and this, and this ... and that rockin' coat above).

• J.Crew is offering an extra 40% off already reduced items with code byewinter. Since I'm deep in vacay withdrawal, I'm loving this caftan coverup, and someone with an adorable petit size 6 foot needs these for when the snow melts. 

• If you do venture out, swing by Luxury Garage Sale for their warehouse sale (big name designer duds at 65% off? Worth facing the cold, fo sho). 

Have a great weekend!

Photo courtesy of Theory

Keepin' it Cozy

The goods:
• jacket (from my mom's closet)
• leggings from Nordstrom Rack
• sweater dress (underneath) by Elizabeth and James
• ankle boots from Zara
• Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Cherry
 

Whoa! It's been too long since I've done an outfit post. Now, I practice what I preach, so don't worry, I'm not wearing leggings as pants, there's a short sweater dress under there. And since the snow hasn't hit, but it's too chilly for my classic trench, I've been sporting this wool jacket which I snagged from my mom (she relied on this pretty plaid number in college ... and my sisters and I did the same).

I mentioned my love for plaid pieces for autumn before, but I also love these vintage pieces similar to mine – this button down coat, this mini cape, and this pretty plaid cape.

Have a Lovely Weekend!

The weekend is here! Maybe not as lovely as last weekend's sunny warm weather, but a nice break nonetheless. If the drizzle has you staying in, just hit up one of the many online sales - save 25% all Shopbop orders, 15% off Loeffler Randall (with code LRXCATBIRD) and score extra savings on sale items at Madewell, J.Crew, and Mikkat Market. Or make a big pot of warm soup for the chilly weekend - after my couple weeks in France, I couldn't wait to try my hand at this French Onion Soup recipe (which turned out pretty tasty!)

Also this weekend ...

• the annual Chicago Architectural Foundation's Open House is this weekend. It's a rare glimpse behind the scenes of our city's most famous (and it's less famous) architectural wonders - like the lovely Monroe building pictured above.

• One of my favorite vintage events in the city is this Saturday and Sunday. Held at Plumbers Hall in the West Loop, Modern Vintage has everything from designer duds to dollar costume jewelry.

• after returning from France with a seriously heavy suitcase full of beauty products (which I'll post about soon), I loved reading these expert secrets on French skincare.

• Perhaps one of the last festivals of the season, Shaw's Oyster Fest is taking place tonight. In addition to tasty oyster treats, they will offer other seafood snacks, beer, wine and of course, tunes.

Have a super weekend!

Photo courtesy of Monroe Vintage

To Market, To Market

We've both been to NYC numerous times, but always try to do new things (I mean, we could easily enjoy margaritas with friends all day, but there's far too many good places to try!) So after strolling the High Line Saturday morning, we popped into the Chelsea Market to peruse all of the artisan food vendors, cute shops, and craft booths. I was like a moth to flame when I found Cynthia Rybakoff's jewels. Her pieces are vintage inspired, some crafted with antique elements or gorgeous gems, mostly in brass settings. Her booth was chock full of everything my jewelry dreams are made of, so choosing what I would take home with me was hard. When I asked Steve which of two rings I should get, he said they were 'both cool, definitely both' (man after my own heart, gotta love him). 

See below for a few snaps from her collection at the Chelsea Market (where she's stationed til December), and check out her site here.

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

There's nothing like a nice three day weekend to wrap up the summer (well, unofficial end of the summer anyway). While I'm a fan of wearing white year round, I love a good excuse like Labor Day weekend to don the crisp, clean hue. 

Also this weekend ...

• One of my fave traditions of Labor Day weekend is the sales! Bloomingdales, Edith Hart, Banana Republic, Lori's Shoes, and La Mer Timepieces are all offering deep discounts through Monday. Happy shopping!

• Maybe going for more of a vintage vibe? The Vintage Heaven sale is back this weekend. Maybe snag some white wear before the summer's up.

• It's supposed to be gorgeous weather, and who better to spend it with than Capital Cities and Passion Pit?! You can at the North Coast Music Fest in Union Park. Still want some more tunes? Go to Grant Park any evening this weekend to take advantage of the Summer Dance series. Learn new moves, enjoy more music ... and the last few weeks of summer.   

Have a fun holiday weekend!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

This Old House

I'm always down for perusing vintage stores – you never know what treasures are hiding amongst the piles of pretty things. Just like you can never have enough vintage garments or accessories, it's hard to pass up a one-of-a-kind item for the home. Be it an antique ashtray (for holding earrings), or a sturdy old chair (which I can't stop collecting), there is something for everyone at these amazing shops ...   

• Brimfield Andersonville - this amazing shop is chock-full (literally to the "Brim") with midcentury furnishings, vintage bar accessories, and every tartan blanket you can imagine.

• I've posted about P.O.S.H Chicago before because I've found no other shop in the city that can make me feel like I'm back in France like it does. Floor to ceiling shelves stock vintage drink ware, old silver trays and ice buckets, and every adorable little French knickknack a Francophile could want.

• I can't list my fave vintage home goods shops without mentioning Jayson Home & Garden. It's definitely a blow-your-budget spot, but easily the most beautifully curated shop in town. I could honestly walk in with my Starbucks, plop on one of their lovely oversized couches, and open a gorgeous coffee table book (while burning the best scented candles, and surrounded by the best foliage ... need I go on?) 

Photo courtesy of POSH Chicago

Have a Wonderful Weekend!

It seems Chicago will luck out with a pleasantly temperate weekend (finally). If you find yourself at a BBQ, try out this fun dessert ... A friend of mine turned me onto a deliciously simple post-dinner snack – the banana boat. Simply slice a banana lengthwise, stuff a few chocolate chips in (I prefer dark!), smear a little peanut butter inside, then wrap the entire thing in foil. Place on the grill as soon as you turn off the flames and leave for about 10 minutes. What you get is a warm, gooey, tasty treat! (also, how fun to add other toppings like mini marshmallows, coconut flakes, or butterscotch chips).  

Also this weekend ...

• Get your weekly fix of festival fun at the Taste of Lincoln Avenue (between Fullerton and Wrightwood). Expect the requisite to-do's – food, drinks, crafts – but also some actually awesome musical acts and complimentary arcade games! 

• This is the final weekend to score some sweet (floor) samples at Jayson Home & Garden. And if you're already full of furniture (or still can't stomach even the slashed prices), snag their garden goods at 25% off in store.

• It's another very vintage weekend at the Randolph Street Market. Grab your shopping tote (and maybe a hot coffee for the pleasant 70's weather) and peruse antiques, vintage jewels, and knickknacks.   

Have a wonderful weekend!

Photo courtesy of Pinterest