Archive for September, 2009

Daily Diamond: Savannah Bee Company Grill, Tea & Cheese Honey

September 30th, 2009 by Catherine

 

151_210_largeSpeaking of improving life in the kitchen, how sweet are these honeys from the Savannah Bee Company? Blended with different mild flavorings, the honeys help to enhance your specific food – tea, cheese or grilled items. Yum! Being a cheese fanatic myself, I’ve honed in on the Cheese Honey. Harvested at the peak of blooming season, this selection is super sweet to compliment the savory flavor of any cheese. I put to the test the website’s promises of “complimenting salty cheeses” and ”taming the tang of a creamy blue” and can attest the honey’s effects. It only made my cheesy experiment that much more delicious. Curious about the buzz?Check out all three of the Savannah Bee Company’s honey pairings. Great as a gift (come on – who wouldn’t love a basket with tea and honey?!) or for your own kitchen, this is one Daily Diamond worth sharing.

Channel Julia Child – for free.

September 30th, 2009 by Ruth

apple pieFor years I’ve wanted to take cooking classes but each time I look into local opportunities, my dreams diminish due to the high price tag that comes with culinary perfection. But now thanks to Williams-Sonoma, I get to channel my inner Julia Child by attending free culinary events.

The kitchen experts at local Williams-Sonoma locations will host technique classes dedicated to a specific topic and led by a culinary expert a few times each month, where you’ll be treated to product demonstrations, innovative recipes and delicious samples. 

horsThe variety of classes is huge, too! This fall, classes start with the introduction to making fresh pasta. Next up is a class on tips and tricks that will help you sharpen your knife skills with insight on everything from cutlery 101 and cutting techniques to basic knife care. There’s also a fall baking class that will feature sweets for the family. Check here for the October class schedule – it’s quite comprehensive!

Space is limited, so call your local Williams-Sonoma store today to sign up for your favorite class.

Dress you up.

September 30th, 2009 by Catherine

Last week, I mentioned how essential a statement necklace is to spice up your current wardrobe. And while I’m still head over heels in love with the J.Crew bobbles, I’ve got a few more affordable options to dress you up. Why spend a couple hundred dollars when there are equally stunning pieces to be had? Check out my picks above and chime in with your own suggestions!

Jigsaw’s Nala Necklace – $60

PacSun’s Enamel Flower Necklace – $8.50

Harmony Lane’s Silver Drop Chain Necklace – $35

Added bliss.

September 29th, 2009 by Catherine

I’ve long been a fan of Bliss’s effective skincare products. Everything I’ve tried has lived up to my high expectations and delivered every last promise. Need help clearing up a pimple? Try this gel for overnight reduction. Heels tearing through your stockings? Slather on this thick cream for instant relief. Looking for a wonder product that does everything you need it to do (and more!)? Look no further than this amazing stick. I mention all these products simply because they’re fabulous and are now on sale at 15% off using the code 099904. So if you’re a Bliss fan like me, better stock up! The sale ends on September 30th.

Daily Diamond: William Rast Leather Jacket

September 29th, 2009 by Catherine

_5913774While catching up on this season’s The Rachel Zoe Project, I held on to something the stylist extraordinaire told Liv Tyler – “A great leather jacket is the timeless closet essential.”. She’s right. What else looks perfect with everything from jeans to a ballgown? So with her quote in mind, I’ve found my own closet essential from designer William Rast. Made from the softest of leathers, this gray motorcycle-inspired design has zippered details and just enough edge to make me feel a little tougher (and chic-er!).

The weather has only just taken a turn for the cooler here on the east coast, so I’m looking for a million ways I can save up for this little gem. At $528, I can see it paired with just about everything in my closet, but the price tag is still a little steep. Until then, I’ll dream a little dream and keep looking for more affordable options. And if you happen to know of any savvy alternatives, please let me know! It’s getting cold!

House of Harlow (and Sparrow)

September 29th, 2009 by Ruth

HOH RingSorry “Simple Life” haters, what I’m about to say might offend you but… I love Nicole Richie. Sure, she’s had a few mishaps in her life and career, but there’s no doubting her unbelievable sense of style and witty appeal. In 2008, Richie launched the jewelry line, House of Harlow (named after her first-born Harlow), comprised of 60′s/70′s style pieces ranging from the afforable $12.50 to the more expensive $200.

In addition to a new member of the Richie family, Sparrow, Nicole has also released a few new pieces to her collection including a nice set of stackable rings for only $12.50.

Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel

September 28th, 2009 by Ruth

VSModelsearch

This might be revealing a little too much about myself, but every year I used to tape the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. It wasn’t enough for me to watch the show just once, I needed to be able to access it for days and weeks to come. Everything about it – the bodies, the clothes, the hair, the music, the celebs – and most importantly, those Angels- I can never get enough. How I longed every year to be an Angel.

Well, dreams can come true, as long as you’re 5’8″ in bare feet and able to be in NYC from October 29 – December 3rd. Entry details and FAQs can be found here on Victoria Secret’s newly launched “All Access” page. You’ll get the opportunity to rub elbows with the likes of Miranda, Alessandra, and Adriana and be involved in one of the biggest fashion shows on television. Don’t worry, I’ll have it all on tape.

Daily Diamond: Smooth like butter.

September 28th, 2009 by Ruth

Botega VenetaWhile living in Florence, Italy, I had the pleasure of walking by the Bottega Veneta store on a daily basis. Known for their buttery soft leather handbags and intricate handwork, I’d tease myself by popping inside to dream a little dream. I’d cruise by the simple, sexy dresses and brush my hand against the fine fabrics while I looked at the Arno thinking about the day I’d be able to swipe my Black Amex and pay in full.

Well, that day has not come but Tomas Maier sure has done it again – his Lilac Intrecciato Nappa is a double faced handwoven bag I can only dream of. At $4700, this lilac gem is elaborately woven and created with the finest material money (not mine) can buy.

Ride ‘em.

September 28th, 2009 by Ruth

Ralph Lauren

I’ve been pining over these chic Ralph Lauren Black Label Harrison Riding Pants forever. I imagined myself wearing them with riding or Frye boots and a warm cozy sweater on a chilly day. However, I knew I had to get real and forget about them because at $700, it was only a dream – that is, until I found its fraternal twin!

Lands' End

Thanks to Lands’ End, my dreams came true. With the Audrey Slim Leg Stretch Cavalry Twills,  I can get the look for a whole lot less – I’m talking $55!  This domesticated version of the riding pant has height-enhancing verticle pintucks, offset front pockets, and a decorative black buckle making it perfect for my style and my bank account.

Shake it up.

September 28th, 2009 by Ruth

JcrewBefore I met my inspirational boyfriend, I was terrified of color and mixing patterns and textures. Some how, and I’m not sure how, but he makes argyle, plaid, and stripes work – and yes, I’m talking all in the same outfit. While I might not get down like him, I quickly learned that I needed to take tips if I was ever going to fullyexpress myself.

For example, I would never imagine pairing this gray Boiled wool regalia sweater-jacket from J.Crew ($198) with a silk cami, and it would definitely not ever have been a purple one. In the old days, I’d play it safe with a black cotton cami paired with nice black or gray pants – not distressed weekend army green cargos.

There is something to be said about the classiness of this relaxed yet sophisticated look that is absolutely perfect for a casual office or lazy weekend. You’re not quite dressed up but you’re not slumming it either  – not to mention the colors are great together. So go ahead, steer clear of classic black and gray outfits, and shake up your wardrobe by mixing colors, textures and patterns in the same outfit.