LONG WEEKEND PLANS

It's Wednesday, friends, which means we are halfway there to a glorious three day weekend.

Are you doing anything special for the Labor Day holiday? Sending out the summer with a bang?

I'm planning on taking a road trip in a convertible down Highway 1 to LA with this gal and two other ladies. We've all agreed that we'll have no set agenda...just stop where we see something gorgeous, and enjoy the journey.

After months of busy busy busy, plan plan plan, my soul needs a trip like this.

Of course, that doesn't mean I haven't been thinking about the perfect things to wear and pack.

When sitting in a car for eight plus hours, comfort is key, so I'm planning on keeping it casual but pulled together with a basic tank and stretchy pants.

Sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and lip balm to keep the sun at bay, because let's face it...I just hit 30 and there will be zero wrinkles allowed from this point further.

I'm throwing in a Turkish towel like this one - it makes a perfect beach towel, picnic blanket, or gives extra warmth should it get windy along the drive.

No road trip is complete without snacks...I try to bring along something a little more healthy than the average gas station fare. And while I can't read in the car without feeling a little woozy (hi, I'm still a child) I'm bringing along my Kindle for a little beach reading.

And don't you dare try to bring a giant suitcase on a road trip. Keep it easy in the most perfect weekender bag I've found.

Have you been on a road trip before? What are your essentials?

/ ONE / Mossimo Racerback Tank / TWO / Stella McCartney Aviator Sunglasses / THREE / J.Crew Panama Hat / FOUR / KIND Bars / FIVE / Kindle Paperwhite / SIX / Furbish Studio Turkish Towel / SEVEN / Supergoop Antioxidant Infused Sunscreen + EOS Lip Balm / EIGHT / Gap 1969 Camo Skinny Jeans / NINE / Everlane Reverse Denim Weekender

STYLE TO STEAL - JACK WILLS

Maybe you just got your first taste of fall weather this past weekend.

Maybe you're like me, and you live somewhere that it feels like fall all year long. (I consider this the best asset of San Francisco, though I know it pains others.)

Either way, don't you just love fall fashion?

The 10 pound September issues from the newsstand. That first hint of crispness that requires an extra layer. The first time you get to wear those ankle boots again.

I'm feeling sartorially inspired by the fall lookbook from Jack Wills, a new-to-me company that I know you'll love to.

Cheers, to all things pumpkin flavored and tweed.

ALL IMAGES  |  VIA JACK WILLS FALL 2013 LOOKBOOK

MOVE RIGHT IN | STINSON BEACH HOUSE

Stinson Beach, though only 20 miles or so from San Francisco, sometimes feels a world away.

For one, it actually gets warm at that beach, unlike the one 2.5 miles from my house that's nice and windy.

The drive to get there is jaw-dropping, winding down Highway 1, feeling like you're in a car commercial with all of the twists and turns.

Though it's not very far from the city, it feels like a vacation. And this home by WA Design? Reason enough to pack your bags permanently.

ALL IMAGES  |  WA DESIGN VIA HOME 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

BREAKS, BIRTHDAYS, AND BIG NEWS

Oh, hi there.

Has it really been two months since we last talked?

If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you know life has been a bit of a whirlwind lately.

First, I got promoted - yay!

Second, I got really busy at work after being promoted - hence the blog break.

Next, I took a nice vacation to Florida with my family where I finally got to meet one of my dearest blog friends, Lisa, in person.

Then, I came home and guess what? I got a new job. I've been working very, very hard towards getting a job like this one, so I was thrilled! The bad part? No less busy in wrapping things up at the old one, then jumped right into the next one.

I turned 30. Since I've been so busy, I kept it low key and we went to Point Reyes for a fun weekend where we ate fresh oysters right from the water. We drank champagne, ate expensive cheese, and enjoyed the scenery.

But that's not the biggest news.

In case you haven't heard by now - I got engaged on that lovely trip to Florida! I'm sure you know by now that I love to have everything planned down to the last detail, but I managed to be very surprised by this one. We hadn't even looked at rings! In a way, I'm glad, because it made it even more special to be totally blown away. He's a sneaky one.

Needless to say, the last two months have been a bit of a joyous cloud, celebrating with friends and just not wanting to return back to normal life. But then I realized...this is my life. And who's to say what's normal anyway? I'll just keep floating in this happiness, but know that I am back to a regular routine, which includes much more in store for you here.

Thanks for sticking along with me, and thank you for sharing in this happy time with all of your sweet notes on Twitter and Instagram. If I didn't thank each of you individually, please know how much I appreciate your love and support.

XO - Lauren

ON BEING A CREATIVE

Living a creative life is near and dear to my heart, but it's something I don't get a chance to talk to you guys about. When Stacy at The Lacquerie asked me to share a bit about my creative process, including tools I can't live without and what music gets me motivated to crank work out, I jumped at the chance. I hope you'll hop over to The Lacquerie and say hello!

Style To Steal - Fashionvibe

 

You know how much I love a new-to-me blog, and it seems you guys love it just as much. 

Have you heard of Fashionvibe? Zina is a Barcelona based fashion blogger, and proves just how well Europeans do fashion. A steady rotation of neutrals with pops of pattern and color, with a little rock and roll and killer sunglasses, I just can't get enough of her.

Any fashion bloggers you've seen lately whose style you can't get enough of? Spill it!

ALL IMAGES  |  VIA FASHIONVIBE, PROPERTY OF ZINA CHARKOPLIA

City Beats

The city has a pulse.

Thump, thump, thump.

The sounds of a city envelope you, even through your headphones. Each city has a beat and a hum unique to its inhabitants.

One of the reasons I believe I love cities so much is how "small" they make things seem. It's hard to feel like you aren't part of a bigger world when you're staring up at sky scrapers that dwarf you in comparison.

And maybe that's why I love living in cities - there's a "we're all in this together" mentality. You know the one - that collective eye roll people make when the train is delayed - again. The cheerfulness during the holidays as people run around, grabbing gifts for their loved ones. And the "more coffee please" attitude as people return to the grind every Monday.

That's why I love these photos from Romain Jacquet-Lagrèze's 'Vertical Horizon' Project. His project comprises 80 photos taken of the Hong Kong skyline, from an angle most never notice. They remind me of my downtown adventures. Staring up, just feeling so small.

And today, on my second year anniversary of moving to San Francisco, I've never felt more at home.

Thump, thump, thump.

ALL IMAGES  |  Romain Jacquet-Lagrèze's 'Vertical Horizon' Project VIA WALL STREET JOURNAL

Three Things 05.28.13

ONE  |  About two months ago, the team at Vitaphenol asked if I would be interested in trying their anti-aging line. I am, after all, on the brink of 30. Of course I said yes. Those fine forehead lines that stick around a little longer than they used to aren't going away on their own, right?

I received the Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, Anti-Aging Toner, Oil-Free Anti-Aging Serum, and Daily Fortified Moisturizer. I was really impressed with the line because the "Vitaphenol Complex" contains lots of natural antioxidants that are great for your skin. In just one use, I loved the creamy cleanser that left my skin feeling soft and silky, combined with the serum, which made my whole face feel a bit firmer.

After using for two months, I've noticed those pesky little forehead lines diminished, and my skin seems clearer and more radiant. I would definitely recommend this line.

TWO  |  I love Everlane's v-neck tees for their quality and affordability, but their new Reverse Denim weekender has me coming up with any excuse to take a weekend getaway. I love the sturdy fabric with rich brown leather handles and trim. It's a bit of a splurge for a duffle bag, but I guarantee it will be the last one you buy.

THREE  |  Thanks to Lindsay at Belle Belle Beauty, I learned about Hourglass. I happened to be running low on my old foundation and blush, so it was perfect timing to try the Illusion Tinted Moisturizer and the Ambient Lighting Powder. Both are "shout it from the rooftop you just have to try this" good.

The tinted moisturizer has the best coverage of any I've used - even this cult favorite. In fact, it's closer to the coverage of a foundation. It gives your skin a silky glow that doesn't look like you're wearing makeup. I found that the Ivory shade best fit my fair but neutral complexion.

The powder in "Mood Light" makes a perfect blush for fair gals. It's a dusty lavender that looks so natural and pretty, giving just the right amount of color without looking too clown like. The photoluminescent technology is a fancy way of saying that it makes you glow, without being glittery. I'll never use another blush again. Not even this one.

Seen anything lately you just adore?

YOU'RE INVITED

By now, y'all know how much love I have for Poshmark, right?

That's why I'm super excited to be co-hosting their LIVE "City Chic" party, right here in San Francisco! If you're local, I hope you'll join us. Make sure to RSVP to rsvp@poshmark.com no later than May 28th.

The best part about Posh Parties? You can shop them from within the app! So if you're not local, you can still join in on the fun.

Poshmark's a free, easy to download iPhone app that lets you easily buy and sell clothes, at major discounts. I picked up a Marc by Marc Jacobs bag and Rebecca Minkoff satchel at less than 50% of the original retail price! Sold? Good!

Download the app and enter code HPECX when you sign up to get a free $5 shopping credit.

Please let me know if you'll be stopping by! I would love to meet you!

Happy Long Weekend

Hi lovelies!

Are you as excited about the three day weekend as I am? What are you up to - anything fun?

I think we might head down the coast a bit and just enjoy a scenic drive. May squeeze a picnic in to knock #17 off this list.

And with 3/4 of my shopping budget left for this month, it will be hard to resist the Memorial Day sales! They're epic!

ASOS 20% off with code TAKE20
J.Crew Up to $75 off using code SHOPNOW
J.Crew Factory 40% off everything
Madewell 20% off tees, tanks, and shorts with code SUMMERNOW (grab my favorite linen tees!)
Stella & Dot big savings on some of my favorite pieces like the serpent bangle & Leona pendant

25 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to San Francisco

How Jenna Lyons Transformed J.Crew - such an amazing read

Talked inspiration, how I started blogging, and more with Mere

Working on your blog over the long weekend? Do you keep an editorial calendar? Could your about page use some brushing up?

A gorgeous Stockholm apartment.


IMAGE VIA  |  ATHENA CALDERONE IN REFINERY 29 - PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALICE GAO

NOT MERELY LIVING

One of my absolute favorite things about blogging is all of the wonderful people I get to meet. Mere from Not Merely Living is no exception. I first met her through a feature on Joy's blog, when I discovered through her interview that we had an uncanny number of similarities. Fast forward to today and she's one of my greatest friends.

Today she did a feature on how I got started blogging, and some tidbits about my life you might not get to read here. Hop over and check it out!

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

BRIGHT LIGHTS

Hi Friends!

As many of you know from following me on Twitter, life has been a bit hectic as of late. Long story short, I got promoted (yay!), took on quite a bit more work responsibility, and then had a big yearly event that I help plan each year come up right at the same time. Coupled with a focus on just trying to take whatever down time I had available to relax a bit and well, here I am.

I apologize for the lack of explanation officially here, but I wanted to pop in today to both explain myself and tell you about a very exciting feature today!

Are you familiar with Frock Files? Joy's blog is one of my very favorites to read each day - or catch up on when I have free time! It's a mix of drool-worthy recipes & food photos, travel, and thoughts on life. I especially enjoy her "Bright Lights" series that highlights bloggers and their favorite things. I always am introduced to someone new, find a few new things to try, and even make good friends like Mere via the series.

You can imagine how honored I was when Joy asked me to participate! Please head over and check out some of my favorite things, tell Joy hi, and know that after May 9th, I'll be back up and running over here.

XO,

Lauren

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

March

This month, I was a pretty good at maintaining my budget. One thing I really like about linking up with Budgeting Bloggers each month is the accountability. How could I call myself on a budget if each month I blow through my budget and then some? And slowly but surely, I am learning to stick with it each month. Last month I even had a surplus!

This month was a bit different. I normally sell quite a bit of my old items that don't fit, are outdated, or just don't work with my current lifestyle. When I do that, I add that in to my budget as money I'm allowed to spend for the month. Generally, this provides at least $100 extra or so. This month I didn't sell anything. Did I want to? Sure, of course. But it just didn't happen.

I also returned the black Edie bag featured in last month's post. It sat in the wrapping for about 3 weeks after purchasing it, and if there's one thing I've learned about myself, it's that if it's not worn or used within a few days of purchasing, I'm not excited about it, and it needs to go back. I exchanged it for this blouse and this cozy shirt that were in the 30% off sale instead, which I've already worn. If I'm being honest, they're more useful day to day. We're all still learning as we go, right?

I also took advantage of a 30% off Madewell sale and picked up another pair of flats. After doing an inventory of my closet at the beginning of the year, I put a pair of tan, go with everything flats on my list, and felt lucky to find the perfect pair on sale.

I ended up about $50 over my budget, and would have been quite a bit under, if it weren't for my handbag purchase, via Poshmark. A tan satchel is another item I've had on my wishlist, and at over 60% off the retail price, this Rebecca Minkoff was hard to turn down. So while last month I had a surplus, I'm going to be starting April with $50 less to my budget.

Do you have a clothing budget? I am encouraged to maintain mine by linking up with these ladies every month.

Merona Heather Sweatshirt | Merona Chambray Shirt | Madewell Elephant Earrings | Rebecca Minkoff Desire Satchel via Poshmark | J.Crew Copley Bag via eBay | J.Crew Jacquard Stripe Sweatshirt | Madewell Holepunch Sidewalk Skimmers | Madewell Elephant Ring | J.Crew Medallion Blouse

MOVE RIGHT IN | BROADVIEW LOFT

Can we all just stop and gaze at this sculpture above the dining table for a moment?

Go ahead, I'll wait.

I'm feeling particularly lusty over this Broadview Lofts residence, designed by Croma Design. If you've been around here long enough, you know I go a little nuts for clean spaces that have touches of warmth via wood or cozy fabrics.

Exhibit A, B, C:

ALL IMAGES  |  INTERIOR DESIGN BY CROMA DESIGN VIA HOUZZ

Luxe or Less - Back To Basics

I subscribe wholeheartedly to the "buy great shoes & bags and everything else will fall together" philosophy. After all, no one looks pulled together hobbling around in shoes that give them blisters. If your shoes are right, you can get away with spending less on the rest of your closet.

At $90, these shoes aren't exactly budget busters. For me, they fall somewhere in the middle of what I usually spend, but they easily pull together both a "luxe" and a "less" outfit. I'm obsessed with finding the perfect pair of boyfriend jeans right now, because I love how they elevate basics and neutrals to an intentional look. These from Joe's have the look and fit I'm after, but these from ASOS have the look at $100 less.

I'm envisioning them paired with a simple cotton tank. I love the softness and drape of T by Alexander Wang, but it's easy to get a similar look for the price of lunch with this version.

Are you into boyfriend jeans? I am saying a silent prayer of thanks as I'm part of the "athletic thigh" club, and happy to have this trend around.

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?

MOVE RIGHT IN | MOD REDUX

I am loving, no - obsessed, with the combination of warm wood and modern elements for interiors lately. Nailing down "your style" is always tricky for me. With an interior design education, I can "appreciate" many different looks and styles. But what is "me" or rather, what is "us" and what do we want for our home?

This. This is it.

Comfy seating for curling up and reading a book or watching a movie? Check.

Plush floors to keep my perpetually cold toes cozy? Check.

One open space to allow for entertaining or cooking while the other is in the living room? Check.

I'm dubbing this "modern warmth."

And these stairs are B-A-N-A-N-A-S.

ALL IMAGES  |  CAPOFERRO DESIGN BUILD GROUP VIA HOUZZ