These Boots Are Made for Walking

Thank you Piperlime.

More on that

I would like everyone to know while I don't tend to get envious often, I truly, madly and deeply have envy of my sister. Organizational envy. Everything in her house has a place.* Open a drawer- voila! little plastic containers for candles or batteries. Her bathroom is immaculate. Her makeup drawer is organized in a way that would make Martha Stewart hate her. And I am pretty sure she doesn't spend precious seconds each morning digging around for her favorite eyeshadow like I do. All of her clothes have hangers. And did I mention how even her shoes are lined up.

Now after 5 days in such immaculate clutter free bliss I am on The Container Store's website trying to find a way to segment my things. My life. Ah yes! I shall segment everything in my life. Someone, come, help me, please... this won't end well!**

(* see, even her couch is orderly)
(**preferably my sister so that she can work some magic on my place)
(***oh and bring that cute baby of yours too)
(****and maybe some snacks, all of this organizing makes me hungry)

cluttered kisses,
me

New Year New Look

I am sitting on my couch, looking around my apt. thinking that I want to update the look a bit. I could go for more bright colors, maybe a few new throw pillows. More streamlined, modern, with a loft feel. I am in a black and pink mode.

Does anyone have any design sites they like? Or rather anyone want to come while I am away for new year's and just do it for me? Bueller, Bueller?

Where I've Been

I know, I know... my blogging has been sparse lately. And by sparse I mean basically nonexistent. But as I am sure you all know, there were holidays to be had and last minute shopping to be done and then post holiday make-up shopping, then traveling back home, then digging out of work email (still not quite there yet), then voice mails, then the excitement for the New Years trip in 72 hours. Sigh, such a tough life..

But let me share some of the bliss I was in so that you will understand that really it's not you, it's me. First there was this cutie to cuddle.

and this love muffin to snuggleand then this freak show to force me to run up very steep hills. In the woods. Through the snow.
Nothing but love. Hope you feel the same!

And More Inspiration Still

IMG_6832, originally uploaded by yael_zakai.

More Mad Men Style

IMG_6826, originally uploaded by yael_zakai.

Mad Men Inspired Ladies

IMG_6816, originally uploaded by yael_zakai.

Mad Men Style

Tonight I am going to a Mad Men themed party. I still am undecided on what to wear, but have a few ideas... including a pencil skirt, my grandma's beaded top, pearls, a scarf, and a great pair of vintage heels. Ok, not all of this together, I will have to edit it down. But to get in the mood here are some pics I pulled for inspiration. Love a good costume!

Shepard Fairey "Love Unites" Auction

As part of The Shepard Fairey Art Project, more than 100 celebs donated their time and talent to recreate personalized renditions of Shepard Fairey's iconic 'Defend Equality Love Unites' poster. The project is auctioning off these prints to benefit gay marriage equality.
You know you still have some holiday shopping today. So head over to the site and check it out. The auction ends tomorrow! Click here to start bidding today!

Rachel on Vogue - Fashionista Says No

I almost always agree with Fashionista. But this one time I have to go against the grain and say that I think they are wrong. True, Rachel's hair is a bit of a highlighted mess, but her face is flawless and I would trade my first born for those eyebrows. Thoughts?

Christmas Countdown

Ten more day. No, seriously, TEN more days. Yikes... where has the time gone?!
So here is my question for you - are you doing more shopping in the stores or online this year? I have avoided the mall like the plague, but I am curious what you are finding out there.


mistletoe covered kisses,
me

More

I should...
blog more
write more
laugh more
run more
slow down more
call more
smile more
hug more
cook more
clean more
let it roll off my shoulders more
thank more
remember more
breathe more
dance more
listen more.

Stop!

Have you ever been to Home Goods? Living in the city and allergic to the suburbs, I rarely go to spots like that. But my sister is literally addicted to the store. We are talking love it like I love Chuck Bass on Monday nights addicted.

Her neighbor just sent her this picture. The two men are my brother in law and the husband of the couple next door to her.


Yeah, I don't get the addiction to lamps either.

Giving Back

'Tis the season to give back. So last night at our girls night we packed up two boxes full of goodies to send to my cousin's boyfriend who is serving overseas. What went into the boxes? Oh you know, the usual... candy, razors, dvds, toothpaste, hello kitty band aids (hee hee hee).
and maybe a picture of all of us girlssnow covered kisses,
me

Snow is Coming

Rumor has it that tomorrow we are supposed to get some snow. That means I am going to go home, pull out my fuzzy hat and wool gloves and sit by the window waiting for the first flake to arrive. When it does, I am going to put on my Wellies and run outside and try to catch snowflakes on my tongue. So, if the snow does come and you happen to see a woman in the streets with her tongue out, just keep on going about your business. I am not crazy I swear.

Bye Bye Daily Candy

DailyCandy is breaking up with us, DC. That's right, the shopping newsletter decided that we are are not important enough to keep around. Don't worry... it's not us, it's them.

DC wasn't the only one to get dumped this week. They dropped 6 other cities too. (And don't even get me started on the fact they were even dating other people to begin with.) Apparantly New York, London, LA, Chicago and San Francisco were the only ones who didn't get the boot. Dirty little slutbag cities.

Good thing we rebound fast.

Dash Up, Dash Off with Target Holiday Pop Up Shop

Target is taking the hassle out of holiday shopping with Target To-Go, a three day holiday shopping event. All you need to do is dash up, check out the holiday gifts they are stocked with and and dash off with the boxes wrapped and ready To-Go. They release says they will have everything from fashion, to beauty, to electronics, etc. I don't know if my sis will be getting a target sweater from the pop-up shop, but may be a good spot to score that ipod for dad.

Target To-Go will be open to the public from Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, at M Street and Wisconsin Ave in Georgetown

Mr. Doonan Does DC

Looks like D.C. really is getting more fashionable. The fabulously ridiculous Simon Doonon (creative director at Barneys) will be decorating the White House this holiday season. No word if he will be drinking eggnog with Obama though.

Thanksgiving Lesson

I am not a huge Gwyneth fan, but I'll give it to the girl, she had a hell of a lesson in her Goop newsletter today. Especially for everyone who is experiencing some family drama today... and since it's Thanksgiving who isn't? Just drink lots of wine!

turkey covered kisses,
me

What a Lovely Watch You Have

Gilt Fuse has Freelook watches. I just ordered one and couldn't be more excited. Like opening your stocking on Christmas morning excited. I have been looking for a new watch since I was living in Italy... more than two years ago! My requirements included: big, masculine, shiney, and sturdy. (kinda like my men... hee hee)

It sort of looks like this... except with a steel band.

and I may or may not have included a gift note to myself in the package.

Love and Magazine

Hiding inside from the rain, I snuggled with my current steady relationship - W magazine. I knew it was love (or lust?) when my eyes saw this ad. Sunny yellow dress - yes please. Red bangle bracelets - always. Strappy sandals gilded with flowers - sign me up. Blue sky, ocean... ok I will stop now.
*bonus points if you know what designer it's for

Extra Credit

An email just popped into my inbox from Ru La La saying they have given me a $25 credit to my account. I should probably note that I've never shopped on their site. But I am now!

Ooh wait, I see Furla on their site. Off I go to la la land.

Take A Bow

This is love. These gloves are calling my name. So, so pretty. So, so red. So, so needing to be mine.
Take A Bow Gloves at ModCloth

If a certain lovely sister is reading this blog and wants to get these for me for Christmas I will promise to not gank anything else from her closet ever again.

bow covered kisses,

me

Tweed Sophistication

(Carolyn Sewell and hubby Richard Sewell )

Not only are these two of my favorite people, but they took one of my favorite pictures from DC's Tweed Ride this past Sunday. Style perfectly done, down to the teacups and wicker bike basket.

Secret Promos at Victoria's Secret

T'is the season for deals. They are popping up everywhere. Last night I stopped into Victoria's Secret to spend a gift card. All through November they are running a their Secret Santa promo where if you spend at least $10 you get a free gift card that is worth anywhere from $10-$500 (it becomes valid on Dec. 1 when you can find out how much it is worth). Plus if you spend $30, you get a free mesh panty (just like Hanky Panky). So Bras for everyone if my gift card is worth $500!

Ann Taylor Friends & Family

I used to joke that I would know I was an adult when I started shopping at Ann Taylor. Because, well, Ann Taylor is where adults shop. I remember a few times in my 20's I went there to get the random item for work and i would always try to shove the bag into my purse so no one would know that I actually had shopped there.
Well, I guess it's official now. I am all grown up. Anyway, enjoy the savings!

Low V

I wish that more men would rock the low V. I really do. I just don't understand why so many men shy away from it. And by shy away what I really mean is run away. But come on, you can not look at this picture and tell me that this man has not mastered the look of the low V perfectly.

I'm swooning over here.

I Love You Too

Daily Lust

American Retro's Corina Fingerless Leather Gloves

Party Favors

These are brilliant! Who doesn't want a mustache on a stick? I mean really... how fun would it be to go to a party and get one of these as a favor? Imagine the pictures!


I now have a goal. And that goal is to have mustache on a stick favors at my next birthday party.


As for these wedding photos... yeah, I don't really know the people. I only care about the mustaches they are sporting.

Art of the Trench

All day it has been in the back of my mind that I should blog about something. But what? I hadn't really read or seen anything that inspirational. Then I did. Boom! Art of the Trench - Burberry's latest collaboration with some of the world's most amazing photographers. All who are given the freedom to take pictures of different people wearing a trench. The first batch of images was done by Scott Shuman (have I mentioned him once or twince, hmm?). AMAZING!

Ps
These little guys sort of stole my heart.

Moving on Up

I just attempted to link my blog to my twitter. I think you should know that I still own a box tv. I also don't have speakers for my ipod. I am a little behind on technology. So this was a big deal. Holler!

Anna Comes to Washington

Who says that Washington isn't stylish? Anna Wintour was just named to Obama's Committee on the Arts and Humanities, joining Sarah Jessica Parker, Edward Norton, architect Thom Mayne and former New York City Ballet dancer Damian Woetzel. The committee works to achieve "economic revitalization through the arts" and guarantee the arts don't become an afterthought in America.

I am guessing that Anna's 'Fashion's Night Out' success may have contributed to this just a little bit. Girl is killing it this year.

Quote of the Day

"Fashion is one way in which we hold ourselves together. Just because I've become spiritual doesn't mean I can't love crocodile."

-Tom Ford

So Fierce

Let's play two facts and a myth. Sort of like two truths and a lie, but way less naughty. Which one of these isn't true?

Fact: Christian Siriano spoke at the Corcoran tonight
Fact: He designed the outfit for one of Lady Gaga's first appearances
Fact: He is old enough to rent a car

Yeah... I feel old.

I Die

Swirl by Daily Candy

Ok, so you all know that I love gilt.com. Then Ru La La came into the mix and sort of overwhelmed me (I am still a gilt girl at heart). And now, Swirl, Sample Sales by Daily Candy has joined in on the fun too.

According to fashionista.com, the site's still in Beta and will soft launch the week of November 16th, with the full-on launch in January. Right now it's first come, first serve to sign up.

kisses for friday,
me

Redeem Yourself

Oooh, I love a good party. And Redeem always throws the best parties. This one will be no different. Drink some drinks, eat some nibbles and try on pretty things. See you there!

Rainy Day Music

Hideaway - Where The Wild Things Are Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

Holiday Wish List - Too Soon?

So I've been thinking about what I want for Christmas and my wish list is coming up mostly kitchen items..

• power blender
  
• food processor


• crockpot


• nice new iron skillet


• baking dishes


• furla purse

Sorry, had to throw that last one in there.

Cooking

Last night I got to check out the new Masa14. First off, let me say I love the atmosphere. Lots of wood, modern but still cozy and a cool mix of people. The menu was big and there were at least 10 things I wanted to try, but we stuck with the spicy tuna roll, asian chicken salad, kobe and pork meatballs, calamari, and barbeque salmon. It was all good, not amazing... but I still ate it up.

Tonight I am home making good use of my halloween pumpkin and turning it into thai pumpkin soup. I also made homemade hummus and a couscous salad with veggies that I had. Seriously, all I need is a cat and my transition into my 30's will truly be complete.*

*the cat comment was a joke.

Hello Lovah

Say hello to my new winter jacket. Vintage. From ebay. Yes, I said ebay.
Love me a big fur collar.

Love Birds

It wasn't until about a month or so ago that I discovered that Scott Shuman (The Sartorialist) and Garance Dore (his female fashion/photographer counterpart) were dating. Recently they have been popping up on each others blogs in stories, pictures and sweet little words. Normally stuff like that would make me roll my eyes and wish they'd stick to style, but in this case it is just that - sweet.

Read Scott's recent post "Verizon Global Gentleman or the Sainthood of Garance Dore" and you will agree. Or laugh at my female emotions. It's really up to you.

Verizon Global Gentleman or the Sainthood of Garance Dore

I don't know if any of you have seen these Verizon Global Gentleman ads that began running in GQ back in September.

It was a really fun project that Garance and I shot over the Summer in Milan, Paris, Australia and London.

I have to admit I'm happy with how the shots turned out... but poor Garance.

No photographer ever wants to shoot another photographer. Let alone your boyfriend who is a photographer.

I couldn't help it, just as she was about to shoot I would keep saying... is that the angle you're going to take???..... back light, really??.... does my hair make my face look fat???

Local florists became quite wealthy after each of these shots.

Sorry G.

Print Overload

This is the list of magazines that I currently subscribe to:

• Vogue
• W
• Marie Claire
• Simply Home
• Elle
• Elle Decor
• Cooking Light
• Glamour

Yes, I know... that's alot. I can explain though. W is the one magazine that I catalog and keep. Simply Home is actually my sister's but for some reason started coming to me and I am addicted now. I ordered Cooking Light from my brother for his magazine drive. Vogue... well, it's just Vogue - enough said. Elle Decor and Elle were a deal where a year of both was $8 total. Glamour and Marie Claire, yeah I don't know. I just get them and can't stop. Though they may be replaced with V Magazine and Washingtonian.

Is this healthy? How many magazines do you get each month? And do you actually read them all?

Things to Discuss

1. OPI's new line of matte nail polish
2. Masa 14 is open with an amazing menu
3. What's going on with this season of Project Runway?

Morning Quickie

Ok two minute quick post that I had to write but I really need to get to that pile of work waiting on my desk. Laura Mercier skin primer. Saturday before a friend's wedding we popped into Blue Mercury to have our makeup done. I left with a tube of Laura's skin primer and a tube of the eye primer and a very strong promise that these little bottles of goodness would keep my makeup on all day.
And they did! Eating, drinking, dancing... makeup still in place. Three hour nap, two hour walk...yup makeup still looks like I'd just put it on. They're not cheap... $30 for the face and $20 for the eyes. But on the real, it's the best investment I've made in awhile. For serious.

The Sartorialist Book Signing

My hero is coming! My hero is coming! Scott (The Sartorialist) Shuman will be in town next week to sign his new book. Even better, he will be at 14th Street's newest restaurant Masa 14. Boom! You get to check out a new place to eat AND meet a mad fashion genius. If Garance is with him, I may literally freak out a bit. See you there!

Washington DC
Monday October 19th
9pm-10 pm
Masa 14
1825 14th Street NW(I love this picture of his. The hat... such a perfect simple touch that makes the outfit.)

Capital Area Foodbank

CAFB just launched their new website. My friends over at iStrategyLabs asked me to work on the copy while they did magic designing the site. It's not the first time they've had me write about hunger. Hmmm, am I seeing a trend? Anyway, the site is done, it looks awesome... so check it out! www.capitalareafoodbank.org

Halloween is Coming

Halloween is coming, which means that I am obviously scrambling for a costume. You would think that someone who loves playing dress up in their everyday life would love a holiday that is about nothing but dress up. Wrong. The pressure, the ideas, the craftiness that goes into it. It all just stresses me out.

So this year I took the easy way out and went to www.halloweendoneeasy.com (ok not the real name of the site, but you get my point) and ordered a costume.

Voila, all finished.

My Daily Obsession

Right now I love bracelets. Lots and lots of bracelets piled on top of each other, overtaking my wrists and slowly creeping up my arm. No rhyme or reason. Nothing matching. Different shapes, colors, sizes. As long as they are bracelets, they can stay. Oooh and if they jingle and jangle as I walk that's even better.

Where have your pants gone?

I love this look (maybe minus the torn tights, hmmm). And my friends can probably tell you about a few times that I have gone out of the house trying to pull off a long sweater as a dress. But the tee shirt as a dress looks much more fresh and carefree to me. I am dying to try it, but I am a little worried that people in DC may stare at me like I am crazy. Then again that wouldn't really be anything new, now would it?

(photo from Garance Dore, who you all should be people crushing on)

Timeless

I love this picture. It was taken just hours ago, but looks like it could have been taken decades ago. In another time, when people put on more than just jeans to go out and life felt more simple.

Taller and Taller

How beautiful is this? I wanted to buy it for one (or both) or my nieces for Christmas, but it is out of stock. Which may actually be better. Because if I had gotten it now I would not have been able to wait until December and would have ended up putting it in a box to mail to them. But then that box would have sat on the floor of my office until December... so yeah, nevermind.
Anyway... it is a growth chart! You hang the jute on any way with the red satin ribbon and mark it with tags and safety pins.

(Fawn and Forest growth chart)