Monday, February 28, 2011

Guest Post Series: Spring Style Files

After my guest post on vmac & cheese last week, I was inspired to ask my favorite blog girls to create some fab content for TCG.

I asked them for their favorite spring outfit. Could be something they recently purchased in preparation for warm weather, or a few things they're lusting after. I also asked these lovely ladies to explain why the outfit is so them.

While these three are all fabulously stylish, they each have a very different look. I could not wait to see what they came up with!

Here's the first post of the series. Cara is a very close friend of mine and a fellow Chicagoan. Check out her blog
An Urban Cottage.


Favorite Spring Outfit























Zara silk blouse
$80 - zara.com

Silk skirt
$128 - anthropologie.com

Calvin Klein ankle boot
$148 - piperlime.gap.com

Cole Haan leather shoulder bag
$428 - piperlime.gap.com

Daisy Knights twist ring
$230 - net-a-porter.com

Alexis Bittar teardrop earring
$200 - nordstrom.com



When Ashley asked me to put together my favorite Spring outfit, the first thing I did was make a trip to my closet. Nothing. I found it impossible to get enthusiastic about anything I currently own. So straight to the internet for a little "window" shopping I went in search of something that was worthy of a guest post on Ashley's blog.

I love the unexpected and opted for a vibrant skirt from Anthrolopogie paired with a classic silk blouse. I truly feel that this combination could go anywhere without feeling over/under dressed. I added a pair of caged, blush colored heels to both elongate my legs and give me some height. After a month working extremely long hours and failing to take care of myself, I made a resolution to be more glamorous. This includes wearing heels far more often than not.

To top the outfit off, I included beautiful lavender drop earrings, a studded gold ring and a light leather bag {similar to one I carry day-to-day}. I love it. While I was originally searching for a fun floral dress, I find this outfit so Spring and versatile!

Thanks Ash for letting me a part of your series. Now let's just hope Spring comes sooner rather than later! xoxo


Saturday, February 26, 2011

Epoch Flowers

I adore having fresh flowers in the house - a pop of color and freshness and an instant mood lifter. At brunch with a friend of mine this morning, we spotted Epoch - blossom heaven. This pop-up storefront in Lincoln Park had gorgeous, seasonal buds AND they were budget friendly! I ended up taking home one of these birch-wrapped pots {$6!} and a bunch of fresh daffodils from Holland. The staff was fabulous {warm water for hydrangeas, ice cold for daffodils}. Now I'm just waiting for Spring...


Epoch Pop-Up Shop, 1211 West Webster Avenue, between Racine and Magnolia Ave.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

The Beach

I am craving a beach vacay right about now. Don't these images look heavenly?




Tuesday, February 22, 2011

This City Girl on Vmac & Cheese!

I'm so excited - my first guest blog! Hop on over to vmac & cheese and check out my three favorite things in my home. Here's a peek...



Stay tuned, I may just have a guest post series in mind for TCG....

Friday, February 18, 2011

To buy or not to buy...


This rug is on OKL today. It's John Robshaw and I may need it in my home. The problem is, I'm not sure exactly where I would put it. The 2'x3' is only $40 and would look great in an entry way... but I already have a rug for both the front and back door. Decisions, decisions...

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Perfection


Thanks to my guy for a Valentines Day that was perfection. French macarons, white hydrangeas, homemade pizza, red wine, our pup and our couch.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Quick Molten Chocolate Cake

Easy Valentine's Day dessert - I swear, under 15 minutes and you'll be eating this deliciousness.

Individual Molten Chocolate Cakes: Serves Two

What you'll need:
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 Tbsp flour
1/3 c bittersweet chocolate chips
1 large egg & 1 egg yolk
2 Tbsp sugar

1. Heat oven to 450. Butter two 6oz ramekins and dust with flour.
2. Place butter and chocolate in glass dish, melt using double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently.
3. Beat eggs, egg yolk and sugar until thick and lighter color (about 1 min). Add melted chocolate and flour, mix until incorporated.
4. Divide batter between ramekins. Bake until edges are set- only 8 to 10 min. Dig in.