Tag: Must-Haves

A woman who possesses true style possesses individual style.  She knows what she likes.  This is demonstrated in the clothes she wears, the way she presents herself, and the artwork that she chooses.  The artwork that you choose to decorate your space is a reflection of who you are, what you like, and what makes you tick.  You should surround yourself with artwork that inspires you and just feels right.  It is only important that you like it; it is a reflection of your taste and no one else’s.  We are all past the age of posters {even framed posters aren’t good enough}… it’s time for some real art.  A common misconception about “real art” is that it must be expensive…  it doesn’t have to be.  Peruse local boutiques, flea markets, and sites like etsy {where I found all of this fabulous artwork} and you can find inexpensive artwork and feel as though you “discovered” your own favorite artist.  I was on etsy the other day {well, pretty much every day} and I found Pinkytoast.  Take a look at her shop… she’s something else.  I ended up buying all of the artwork below.  I can’t wait to frame and hang all of these pieces in my living room… her artwork is feminine, humorous, and whimsical.  Exactly what I want my space to feel like.

These pictures are taken of items that will be put on my very girly and oh-so-perfect cocktail cart {still a DIY project lovingly in progress}.  The items have been collected over time and, though you can find comprehensive lists of what a bar should be stocked with all over the place… this is what a fabulous, glamorous, chic hostess should always have in her bar {not what some scotch swilling middle-aged man would be stocking}.

1. Buy/acquire/collect the essentials. You will definitely need an ice bucket, a cocktail shaker {or two}, a bottle opener, a corkscrew, something with which to stir, coasters for impromptu parties, a strainer, and glassware.  I also think that it is glamorous to have an ornate champagne bucket on hand for spur-of-the-moment celebrations.

2. Get the liquor necessities… and it’s only a necessity if you, my love, like it. Or… if one of your best friends {who is a frequent cocktail guest at your home} loves it.  If you hate, utterly hate gin, don’t buy it {I only own some because it was a gift… from a gin drinker}.  Can’t stand whiskey? You don’t need it {though a whiskey sour is a delicious thing… give it a whirl}.  If you want to make sure there is something for every palette, always have vodka {you can mix it with virtually anything}, wine {a bottle of white and red}, and beer {the more obscure, the cooler you look}.  To really be a star, especially if you love summer parties {who doesn’t?}, have some tequila options on hand.  Tequila is perfect for festive margaritas and {arguably more festive} tequila shots.  To go above and beyond and be an entertainer’s dream… have a bottle of champagne. Always.  There is always a reason/person/moment to celebrate.  And nothing says “celebration” like champagne.

3. Make sure you have mixers & ice {bonus Hostess-of-the-Year Points for garnishes}. You can use what you have on hand {any kind of juice, soda, etc.} or get a few of the following: cranberry juice, soda water, tonic, coke/diet coke, 7up, and something tropical {like pineapple juic}.  If you want to make life easy, have a few pre-made mixes {for things like margaritas} on hand.  A few varied citrus options {lemon, lime, orange} are all you need in the garnish department {and they add a fabulous splash of color}.  If you want to go above and beyond, have some coarse salt and sugar on hand with which to rim your glasses.

Every woman knows that her look isn’t complete without the right footwear.  With these ten pairs in your closet {and a fabulous pedicure!}, you’ll be ready for any occasion.

1. Sergio Rossi ‘Boston’ Peep Toe Pump $715
2. DV by Dolce Vita ‘Dugan” Sandal $60
3. Sam Edelman ‘Lazar’ Espadrille $150
4. Jimmy Choo ‘Decoy’ Platform Bootie $995
5. Sperry Top-Sider ‘Southport’ Slingback Wedge $90
6. Lanvin ‘Sandale Clous et Strass’ Sandal $1595
7. Alexander McQueen Peep Toe Sculpted Wedge Pump $930
8. Dior Cannage Stitch Peep Toe Pump $770
9. Jimmy Choo ‘Berry’ Calf Hair Flat $725
10. New Balance ‘1210’ Training Shoe $125

You can just wear one… in your hair, on your wrist, around your waist… for a touch of femininity.  Or you can wear them from head to toe for a frilly, girly, oh-so-cute look.  I can’t get enough bows.  Maybe you’ll fall in love with one {or all} of the bow-topped items below like I have.

1. Crystal Dipped Handheld Mirror Made with Swarovski Elements $350
2. Christian Louboutin Lady Bow $735
3. Anthem of the Ants Bow Romper $62
4. Badgley Mischka Bow Watch $150
5. Giuseppe Zanotti Chiffon Bow Sandal $850
6. Barneys New York Floral Bow Tie $75
7. Lanvin Silk Bow Front Blouse $1,165
8. Christian Louboutin Madame Butterfly Bootie $1,195
9. Tasha ‘Skinny Bow’ Headband $24
10. Kensie ‘Adrienne’ Hipster $12
11. Dior Cannage Stitch Peep Toe Pump $770
12. Heidi Klein Salina Bow Bikini $235
13. Marc by Marc Jacobs D2 Bianca Bow Pave Bow Earrings $68

Santa Barbara has been experiencing an early summer… for which I am unbelievable grateful. Constant sunshine calls for lighter clothing and, obviously, a killer swimsuit.  Just because you’re hitting the beach does not mean that you should forgo your sense of fashion… whether you are feeling like a sex kitten, glamazon, or pin-up that day {pick whichever one you feel fits you best… because, Cupcake, we all know you are all three} there is a swimsuit, cover-up, sunglasses, and lip color {the only beach make-up necessity} to suit your mood {pun very much intended}.

1. Golden Days Bikini $78
2. Plunging Halter Maillot $178
3. Summer Place Suit $118
4. Coconut Pearl Cover-Up $138
5. Grand Coast Cover-Up $648
6. Corsica Cover-Up $98
7. Tom Ford Marko $390
8. Marni Large Rounds $390
9. The Row Exaggerated Cat Eye $442
10. Cle de Peau Beaute Lip Gloss N10 $48
11. By Terry Gloss Delectation – 7: Mandarina Pschitt $44
12. Lipstick Queen in Red Saint $18

Today is the beginning of something big.  For me at least.  I am beginning a whole new lifestyle… one that is healthy, high-energy, and fitness focused… meaning more protein and fewer cupcakes… saying good-bye to my mimosa Sundays and hello to Sunday morning hikes… and buying a whole bunch of new {adorable!} workout gear!  The new lifestyle kick (for the next three months… I’ll give you a weekly workout update!) is thanks to a phenomenal Santa Barbara based personal trainer, Stacey Cooper (check out her website here)… My motivation is furthered (even more) by some of the cute gear below!

1. Victoria’s Secret Printed Tank $15
2. Wear Everywhere Zip Hoodie $47
3. Lululemon Groove Pant $98
4. Puma Complete Ventis 2 Running Shoe $100
5. Puma First Round Grip Duffel Bag $79.95
6. Nike Pro Combat Reversible Women’s Sports Bra $34
7. Apple iPod Shuffle $45
8. Yogarat Mat in Leopard $25
9. Cool Gear Waterville 32 oz water bottle $10