Going To Greece

I'm currently trying to wrap my head around everything I will need to pack for the crazy amount of time I will be traveling starting in September. I'll need a month of clothes for Georgia, everything for the wedding, and then a suitcase for two weeks of honeymooning through Greece & Italy.Can I just skip all of the other tedious stuff and go straight to the wedding and immediately to beach frolicking right after, please?I've been stocking up on a few things to get me through my trip - a hat for my pale San Franciscan skin, a tunic to cover up and protect my shoulders, and a new suit that I think is very French girl chic. These sandals are making the rounds on Pinterest because they truly are "shout it from the rooftops" comfy, and perfect for going to the beach or tromping cobblestone streets. I never travel without a giant tote, this time I have a lovely monogrammed version with my new initials to take with me thanks to my friend Mere.We're planning to make stops in Athens, Paros, Mykonos, then on to Italy where we're still working out an itinerary. Suggestions? Shops to shop, places to eat, things to see? Have you been? This is a huge bucket list check for me so I want to see it allllll. 

TOP IMAGE VIA MARTA LOCKLEAR

SHOP THE POST

Style to Steal - Daria Daria

I have a major obsession with international fashion blogs.

Rarely, even with Google Translate, do I understand what they're talking about. But the style, oh...the style.

I recently fell in love with Daria Daria. Equal parts awesome layering and neutrals, with a bold lip, I think she's just perfect.

I think you'll love her too.

ALL IMAGES  |  VIA DARIA DARIA

What To Get Girls This Year

It should go without saying I would take one of anything on this list - so if you're reading, dear fiancé, I'm making it easy for you this year.

Whether you're shopping for your mom, sister, or best friend, I always say a good rule of thumb is to get them something that's either a little nicer than things they would buy for themselves. Spring for the cashmere instead of itchy wool, the luxe lip pencil or nail polish over a drugstore buy, or a showstopper necklace that makes any outfit special.

Oasap Plaid Coat  |  Rebecca Minkoff Hudson Bag |  Nordstrom Cashmere Infinity Scarf  |  NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cythere |  NARS Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil in Train Bleu  |  Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush  |  Sam Edelman Petty Boots  |  Deborah Lippmann Mini Neutrals Set |  Loren Hope Carina Necklace  |  Ray-Ban Thick Cat Eye Wayfarer Sunglasses  |  Drybar 100 Proof Treatment Oil  |  J.Crew Fair Isle Trouser Socks  |  Everlane Slouchy Cashmere Cardigan in Burgundy

WHAT TO GET KIDS THIS YEAR

I may not be a parent yet - but I abide by the golden rule when giving gifts to kids - for the sake of parents sanity everywhere, nothing that makes noise, requires batteries, or takes hours to put together.

I also like to encourage creativity, so I love toys that encourage kids to come up with their own stories and adventures. Fun playhouses, art sets, or books that teach them about cool cities they might want to travel to someday.

Twig Creative Mint & White Toy Camera  |  Hopscotch Kids Non-Toxic Nail Polish  |  Crewcuts The Dude Tee  |  Crewcuts Sequin Heart Tee  |  MacAlister Camo Boots  |  MacAlister Shearling Gold Boots  |  Land of Nod Campfire Smores Set  |  Land of Nod Black & White Stripe Teepee |  This is San Francisco Book

MORE IDEAS

WHAT TO GET GUYS THIS YEAR

Men. They are HARD to shop for, am I right? I start hassling the men in my life for gift ideas starting in October since I know it will take them that long to come up with even one little idea. For my husband-to-be, I've just given up on asking him. Instead, I wait for those little casual hints, come up with something fun for us to do - the experience gift, or I just buy a nicer version of something than he might buy himself.

I think that's a good route to take - the nicer than they might pick for themselves. We gals think nothing of dropping $25 dollars on quality hair care products, but for men? No sir. But a funny thing happens when you either just place it in their medicine cabinet or gift it to them.

"I like this new stuff you got. I mean, it's a little better than the old stuff I guess."

(It's always "stuff.")

And then they're converted, much like we are.

Original Chippewa Plain Toe Boots  |  Saturdays Surf NYC Kurt Cardigan  |  Everlane Crew Tee in Antique & V Tee in Pine  |  Imogene + Willie Leather Football  |  Abingdon Waxed Canvas & Leather Laptop Bag  |  Warby Parker Beckett in Evergreen  |  Michael Kors Scout Chronograph Watch  |  Crosley Portable USB Turntable  |  The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil  |  B. The Product Waxd Styling Paste

MORE IDEAS

Three Things

ONE  |  Though it's not quite fall these days around San Francisco, I've been stocking up on fall and winter sweaters with all of the great sales. You see, while you're breaking out your leather and ankle boots, we're finally getting our long awaited summer - in September & October! I'm patiently waiting until the day I can wear this leather elbow patch sweater without breaking a sweat. And if you're coveting this like I was, it's 25% off until Sunday with the promo code SWEATERS.

TWO  |  Since getting engaged, I've become a bit obsessed with all things monogrammed. But I hate the stuffy styles of many items on the market. Instead, I love the modern feel of this leather pouch with its engraved block letters. Perfect for carrying a few essentials on the weekend or tossing in your larger tote during the work week.

THREE  |  It's no secret my love of neutrals extends to homegoods. When I saw this nesting bowl set, I just had to pick it up. The largest size is perfect for side dishes, while the smaller bowls are great for dips or snacks. Even the tiniest one gets used around my house for ketchup or mustard. I think these would make a great hostess gift. 

Seen anything lately you just adore?

SEVENTEENTH & IRVING SHOPS

/ ONE /  Michael Kors Pyramid Runway Watch / TWO / Rebecca Taylor Leather Sleeved Coat / THREE / Stella & Dot Sparkly Bardot Bracelet / FOUR / Tory Burch Clara Satchel / FIVE / Warby Parker Winston Sunglasses / SIX / Belle By Sigerson Morrison Kyeran Booties / SEVEN / Bare Minerals Power Neutrals Palette / EIGHT / Stella & Dot Kahlo Bib / NINE / J.Crew Leather Plaque Belt

Not to beat a dead horse here, but having some neutrals with lots of texture and interest will maximize your closet as fall starts approaching. Throw on some ankle boots with your favorite summer dress, add tights as the air grows colder, then top it off with this stunner for extra warmth.

I love olive as a neutral year round, which means this bag is at the top of my wishlist.

Are you ready for fall yet? What item is a must have for your wardrobe?

SHOP THIS POST

Style to Steal - Lovely Pepa

Don't you just love when you find a gem after going down the rabbit hole of Pinterest inspiration?

This happens often to me, because I insist on all of my pins leading back to their proper source, or at least a source that properly credits them.

I stumbled across the pin above, which led me to a Tumblr, but through the magic of this nifty tool I discovered one of my favorite new style blogs, Lovely Pepa. I mean, just check out this girl's closet.

Of course, after digging around, I realize this new-to-me blog is quite big and popular. But isn't that what's amazing about blogs? There are so many out there that you can never quite read them all, and there's always a new source of inspiration to be discovered.

Tell me - what are some of your "hidden gems" that you love to read?

PS - Thank you for all your sweet notes and feedback on my promotion and Joy's Bright Lights feature. You guys are the best. Your patience and understanding while I adjust to this new pace of life mean the world to me.

ALL IMAGES VIA  |  LOVELY PEPA - ALEXANDRA PEREIRA

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR CLOSET

In the last year, I focused on buying nothing but pieces that will be "workhorses" in my wardrobe. When I find myself in a store, staring down a need it right now item, I've done a pretty good job of forcing myself to stand there and actually think about what I'm doing.

It didn't always used to be this way. I used to just buy whatever I liked. Then I woke up and found myself with a closet full of pieces I only sort of liked. And none of it looked good together, which lead to many "I have nothing to wear!" mornings.

First thing's first, you must conquer that closet. Figure out what you actually need to fill holes. Make a list. Keep it on your phone. Shopping and spot a good deal you just can't pass up? I try and ask myself this:

Is it on the list? 

If it's not, why do you need it?

Can you think of at least three different and unique ways you can work it in? 

One item on my list was a black leather tote. Living in a city, I had three requirements of this tote. First, it had to have a zipper top for security. Second, I wanted short handles that allowed me to carry it in the crook of my arm, but not so long that the tote would touch the ground if I held it by my side (short people problems). Third, I knew an optional crossbody strap would allow me to use it hands free if needed. Beyond those basic requirements, I knew I wanted high quality materials and construction and free of trendy hardware so I could keep it for years.

But before it was ever on the list, I forced myself to think of three different ways to use it.

I'm imagining it in the spring with a pair of white jeans, a chambray shirt, and sandals for the farmers' market. Laugh if you must, but this is spring & summer wear here in chilly San Francisco.

I could also picture carrying it for a work function, adding interest to a basic black dress with statement shoes.

And since going out at night in San Francisco requires having a place to stash an extra scarf or jacket for the walk home, I knew it would be perfect for meeting up with girlfriends for drinks. San Francisco is pretty casual, so I tend to wear a pair of dark or black skinny jeans with a fun top and boots made for walking when I go out.

Do you keep a running wishlist of items for your closet? I'm curious to hear if any of you have this same strategy? I think it's saved me a ton of money on purchase mistakes.

The Tote | Michael Kors Gilmore Tote
Outfit 1 | Merona Chambray Shirt | Old Navy White Denim | Splendid Sandals
Outfit 2 | Zara Dress | Stella & Dot Rebel Pendant | Zara Heels
Outfit 3 | Madewell Linen Tee | Topshop Black Denim | DV Dolce Vita Booties

THREE THINGS

ONE  |  Don't you love running into a piece that becomes an instant favorite by chance? That's what happened when I was cruising Target the other day, purchasing exciting daily life necessities like Method counter spray. Another shopper happened to abandon this chambray shirt in the cleaning aisle and it caught my eye. Fast forward to me racing through the clothing section, searching for the shirt in my size, in the dressing room, and this baby was in my cart in rapid time. I've had it one week and I won't admit how many times I've worn it since purchasing. The fit reminds me of the lighter version of this closet favorite mentioned here.

TWO  |  Did you guys know I'm a Stella & Dot Independent Stylist? I love their jewelry and being able to share it with other people is so easy that becoming one was a no brainer. I picked up this Rebel Pendant and I'm wearing it with everything. The long length makes it perfect to layer with shorter necklaces, it dresses up a casual v-neck tee + jeans, and I receive lots of compliments whenever I wear it. PS - shop the trunk show for a chance to win a free piece from me!

THREE  |  Whether you call them investment pieces or just smart purchases, a good leather bag is a closet staple that gets better with age. When completing an inventory of my closet, I noticed I have a dark brown, a black, my beloved burgundy bag, but not a nice medium tan. I think this one would be a great fit.

Seen anything lately you just adore?

THREE THINGS

ONE  |  This batik pattern on this pillow reminds me of summer. I love the ombre effect and the dark inky blue on luxe silk. I might have to pick up a pair for our living room since summer weather's not coming to San Francisco any time soon.

TWO  |  Speaking of sunny weather, I love a good pair of sunglasses. I've been rocking the same pair of Cole Haan aviators for approximately four years now ( invest once, wear forever ) but I think I'm ready to add a retro oversized pair like these to the rotation. These come in lots of colors, but I like the leopard most.

THREE  |  I picked up this NARS Light Reflecting Loose Setting Powder on a total whim, but it's turned out to be one of the best beauty buys I've made! I dubbed it "Photoshop Powder" because it has a "blurriness" to it when you brush it over your skin. It hides redness, pores, and the reflective quality gives your skin a nice "lit from within" glow, sort of like your favorite Instagram filter or Photoshop action. I can't say enough good things about this powder, which I hope is a strong endorsement since I've always been firmly anti-powder.

Look, It's Me!

You know what stinks about getting older? Things like vision changes. I used to pride myself on my 20/15 vision, because hey...I could be a fighter pilot.

Needless to say, I didn't grow up to be a fighter pilot, and instead I'm a regular worker bee that sits at my computer for 10 hours a day between my 9-5 and my work for Seventeenth & Irving. Since I've been doing that for about 8 years now, my vision is slowly fading.

But the bonus? Glasses are cool and trendy again!

I've recently purchased several frames to suit my mood or outfit, so when GlassesUSA.com asked me to pick out a pair that I liked, I couldn't say no. I have to admit, purchasing a pair of glasses online was a scary idea for someone like me who's "blessed" with a wider face, so I really liked the virtual optician feature that lets you buy glasses by frame measurements. Perfect to find a pair with similar dimensions to eyeglasses you may already own.

I decided to pick a pair that had a little bit of textural interest, so I went with this pair that reminded me of woodgrain. If you're looking for a new pair of prescription glasses, GlassesUSA.com is an excellent resource for an affordable new pair. They're always offering a great discount on top of their already affordable prices. My pair totaled less than $100 for stylish frames with anti-glare coating.


WHAT I'M WEARING  |   Gap Trench Coat (very old...buy it once, have it forever) | ASOS Faux Fur Collar (Similar) | Style & Co Skinny Jeans | Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Francesca Handbag | Kenneth Cole Reaction Boots - On Sale

This is a sponsored post by GlassesUSA.com. Please see the fine print for more information regarding sponsored posts on this blog. Thanks for being supportive of posts like these that keep Seventeenth & Irving running!

NOT BORING

Funny things happen when you write a blog, and read at least a hundred of them.

You start noticing patterns, and trends, and how everyone seems to have the same taste.

I blame Pinterest. (Not too much though, I love you, Pinterest.)

Bright neon satchels are suddenly everywhere.

Mint green is always paired with something sparkly or gold.

Everybody is suddenly wearing polka dots and sequins.

But what if you don't like that? As an artist, people's personal style has always intrigued me. But if it's not really your taste, and you still wear it because you see it everywhere, is that really style? Or are you just wearing what the stores or the top ten fashion bloggers tell you to wear?

In my home, I've always preferred a sort of neutral palette. Call it the curse of working a creative career, but as a designer, I used to be surrounded by so much color and pattern. When I came home from work, I wanted nothing but a peaceful retreat. I decorated my home in blues, greys, lavender, with touches of gold and warm wood. I didn't feel bad when I skipped over bright pink accent pillows or chevron.

After years of purchase mistakes, and clearing those mistakes out of my closet, when I stand back and look at the things I really love, they all follow this same pattern. Yesterday I mentioned that when it comes to 2013, one of my goals is to simplify all areas of life.

I fear you'll think I'm boring, but pardon me if I wear nothing but black, brown, olive, burgundy, navy, ivory and every shade in that palette this year.

I'm using these ladies, proving a limited palette is anything but boring, as my inspiration.

And in case you were wondering - I think yellow looks radiant on you. I admire how you can pair plaid with polka dots and completely work it. I'm celebrating what makes you "you" and me "me." That's really what style is, am I wrong?

IMAGES VIA | 1. Refinery 29, 2. Elle Sweden, 3. Harper's Bazaar, 4. Elle Sweden, 5. Harper's Bazaar

DYNAMIC DUO - SID & ANN MASHBURN

Are you familiar with Sid & Ann Mashburn? They're the very chic brains behind Sid Mashburn and Ann Mashburn boutiques in Atlanta - regular haunts of mine when I was living there. I was so pleased to see them in April's issue of Matchbook Magazine with photos shot by one of my favorite photographers, Ali Harper. Besides looking impossibly stylish, Sid & Ann have such a great love story.

Sid began his career designing in New York for J.Crew and Ralph Lauren. His eponymous boutique specializes in tailored perfection and classics with a twist.

Ann worked at Vogue and Glamour. Her shop is stocked with a highly edited selection of classic pieces with a trendy edge. You'll always be the best dressed with her designs.

What I enjoyed most about the Matchbook article was the genuine love and respect these two have for each other, made apparent by the intimate interview. When asked his favorite thing in Ann's shop, he said "Ann, in one of her dresses." If that doesn't make a girl swoon, what would?

ALL IMAGES: PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALI HARPER | FOR MATCHBOOK MAGAZINE | STYLING BY GINNY BRANCH

Rainy Day Wear

We're taking a long vacation over Thanksgiving - opting to head to the Pacific Northwest by car instead of the usual hour long plane ride from San Francisco. I'm looking forward to exploring Portland, somewhere I've never been, and all the other great little towns on the way to Seattle. Perhaps a little day trip to Vancouver is in store too. I can't think of a better reason to break out the cold, rainy day gear.

I'll be sporting these rain boots (perfect for us athletic calved girls!) with my favorite infinity scarf. This jacket is a good deal in stores right now - 50% off, and it's incredibly warm! I'm packing this toasty hat to keep my ears warm and hair tamed, gloves that let me keep up with tweets and Facebook since they work with a smartphone screen (genius, right?!) and this cheery umbrella for the inevitable rainy day stroll.

Go Shopping: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

Head Over Heels For...

Can we please pause for a moment and talk about how J.Crew is KILLING it lately? I mean really. My wishlist grows at an alarming rate with every "New Arrivals" email. Their latest holiday lookbook is no exception. Red glittery heels reminiscent of Wizard of Oz? The perfect red lipstick? Plaid and gingham together? Dear Santa, I'll take it all. XOXO, Lauren.

Site I'm Crushing On : BaubleBar

I finally took the plunge last week after days of lusting over this necklace on BaubleBar, and boy, was I floored when it arrived yesterday. This isn't your average, cheap costume jewelry. These are the pieces that you keep. You know, like the ones your grandmother has given you from the 40s, 50s, 60s. This is quality. And it's all in the details - the velvet pouch that your new purchase arrives in, the sweet hand-written thank you note from the BaubleBar girls, and the weight of the piece.

Better yet, if you sign up for a BaubleBar account using this link, they'll send you a code for $10 off your first purchase. And each time you make a purchase, you receive credits to use towards free items in the future. You can't beat that.

Go Shopping : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5