SOLD: J Crew's Jenna Lyons' Brooklyn Home

Well, I don't know how I let this one slip through my fingers! (budget restrictions could be a minor factor, cough ) The Park Slope town home most of us have been lusting after since it graced the pages of Domino has been sold - get this- for MORE than the original asking price (yes, 'in this economy!') it was listed last fall at 3.75, and it's been reported the takers snagged it for a cool 4 mil. Ms. President and Creative Director of J Crew decorated this gem on her own - and it shows, in the best possible way. 

Chandies galore

 Major architectural envy

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Make a Statement

I live in a corner unit loft apartment that has two things I love in abundance - exposed brick and windows. The trade-off being, that I have very limited wall space in our living area. Currently, a huge canvas with a green and blue tie dye effect is holding court by default. I am totally ready for a change up, and I love the way these interior shots revolve around one stunning statement piece of artwork. 

Lauren Gold in Lonny Magazine

 Kara Mann

Kelly Wearstler

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Matthew Leverone

What's In My Makeup Bag?

Being that I am a voyeuristic human by nature, I have always loved the blog/youtube posts of the what's in my bag variety. So, inspired by one of my favorite blogs, Tartan & Sequins, I decided to share some of the everyday favorites that are standbys in MY makeup bag. [Confession: I have been a Sephora junkie since high school and though I rarely appear 'made up' I have a full blown cosmetics obsession; totally blame the mother for this]. The absurd amount of Benefit products can be blamed on the power of before and after provided by the gals that wax my brows into submission at my local Benefit boutique. 1. Dior Hydra Life tinted moisturizer - love this stuff, actually moisturizes with decent coverage and SPF to boot. 2. Makeup Forever lift concealer 3. Amazing Cosmetics concealer - I have genetic dark circles that are totally hiddy, when I need to bring in the big guns, I reach for this. 4. Benefit Erase Paste 5. Benefit Ooh La Lift  6. Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation 7. Benefit High Beam - a classic, this has been my go to highlight forev. 8. Makeup Forever HD powder - Colorless, this looks frightening but is perfect for setting makeup on all skin tones without looking powdery. 9. Benefit That Gal primer 10. Nars Bronzer Blush Duo in Laguna/Orgasm 11. Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Rose - the perfect lip color, with a sweet vanilla scent. 12. Chloe Eau de Parfum 13. Benefit They're Real - my no. 1 obsession is mascara, I have tried every department and drug store variety you can think of...this is my holy grail atm. 14. Stila liquid liner 15. Benefit Speed Brow 16. Urban Decay Naked palette/Primer Potion 17. Benefit Cha Cha tint 

What's In My Makeup Bag? by thevioletdoor featuring benefit cosmetics

Masterpiece, indeed.

I don't know how I ignored it as long as I did. All of the components that usually result in bringing me enjoyment were there and I did not pursue them. I'm talking about the PBS series, Downton Abbey, obvi. This dishy delight about a well to do family and their staff has me totally hooked. I have taken in the majority of the first season this past week, and I can't wait to watch another episode this evening! This show totally warrants the buzz, imo.

Weekend Recap

The highly unusual weather we have had in Chicago this winter just keeps getting better. This weekend was sunny and unseasonably warm, which makes me a happy gal. I hope this keeps up, the sooner beach and patio season is here to stay, the better!

-Tartufo and a Negroni to cap off our Friday dinner date at RPM Italian Friday night, everything was delicious and the space is so gorgeous!
-Saturday night birthday celebrations for one of my favorite ladies. 
-My current read, The Darlings is shaping up to be quite the page turner.
-Perfect weather for walks with my fuzzy bff.
-A new Kate Spade case for my iphone, perfect for spring.

Best in Show

I have a problem: I have been lusting over the idea of a wall paper adorned powder room and/or entry for years. Sadly, my condo is a rental and I doubt the owner would share my enthusiasm for the motif that tops my wish list:

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I have found it here, and it also comes in pink(!!!) Be still, my heart. 

Prep School

For this gal, who has been trying to break the habit of default dressing in polos and oxfords for far too long, spring's uber preppy trend is a welcome bridge. Interpreted in bright colors with kitschy details like needlepoint being shown by so many of my favorite retailers, perhaps I can put a more refined spin on some of my favorite basics...

Now Playing

Disparate Youth by Santigold 

Love her, can't wait for more new tracks

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