Vintage Re-imagined: Virginia Slims and Bananas Foster

Hello There! Welcome to a new series (one which I am very excited about) - Vintage Re-imagined! I will be taking vintage pieces that I either find in local shops or I already own and I will make them my own. This time around I used a couple of pieces I already own. Each of these vintage items belonged to my great grandmother, Rue Dishongh, otherwise known as Mama Rue. Let's start from the top...

Hat: Target  Hat Pin: Vintage from a shop in Harrogate Necklace: Vintage courtesy of Mama Rue Lipstick: BareEscentuals in Red Zin

Skirt: Vintage Neiman Marcus Wool Skirt courtesy of Mama Rue Shoes: Aldo

Belt: DKNY Charm: Vintage courtesy of Mama Rue

And here is the wonderful woman who continues to be an inspiration to me even though she is no longer with us. “Elegance comes from being as beautiful inside as outside.” 

― Coco Chanel

Stay tuned for another Vintage Re-imagined post! I am going to really love these... Let me know if you have any good flea market/vintage finds! Also, please let me know if you are in the Denver area and know of any lovely little vintage shops. A HUGE thanks to the lovely Golan for being my photographer. If you'd like to see more of these please subscribe in the sidebar! x

A Little Monday Inspiration

Today I received my Anthropologie November Lookbook in the mail. It was not only full of wonderful pieces that I would love to get my hands on (as usual) but it also contained some wonderfully inspiring images. If I were to accomplish nothing else in my modeling career other than an Anthro campaign, I would still be one happy girl. 

I want those gold puppies in the corner... 

Because everyone needs a dining table in the middle of a field...right? Right.

What has inspired you so far this month? Let me know in the comments! Stay tuned for an exciting new series and subscribe in the sidebar! x

Fall Foodie: Roasted Artichokes

Hello There! Every now and again I have a few days where my eating habits are less than perfect. I will quickly notice the difference in my body - low energy, weight shift, breakouts. In order to reboot and cleanse my system, I search from inspiring recipes to kick start clean eating habits once more! Recently, I broke out a favorite of mine from last fall, ROASTED ARTICHOKES. 

The Ingredients: fresh artichokes, lemon, garlic, pepper, and olive oil.

I found the original recipe here - the Organice Your Life YouTube Channel. That Lonneke Engel is a genius. She is so inspiring to live a clean and healthy life. 

The Steps:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
2. Cut the stem off of the artichoke at the base
3. Cut the top of the artichoke to expose the inner portion as well as the lower leaves
4. Spread the leaves a bit and insert a clove of garlic into the center of the artichoke
5. Add pepper (and salt, if you like) to taste
6. Place artichoke on a large sheet of aluminium foil 
7. Add fresh squeezed lemon juice (I tend to use about a quarter of a lemon)
8. This is an added step on my part- I decided to add some minced garlic onto the top of the artichoke as a bonus
9. Wrap the artichoke snugly with the aluminium and place in a baking dish of your choice (I use stoneware) 
10. Cook for an hour! You will know your artichoke is done if you stick a fork into the middle and it feels soft.

How to Eat:
Remove the leaves, starting with the outer edges and working your way in. Scrape the inner portion of the leaf with your bottom teeth and enjoy! I know that sounds beyond appetizing but just trust me - it is. This was harder to explain that I had anticipated so feel free to watch the original video by Organice Your Life HERE.

Your finished product should look something like this! I'm getting hungry just writing this post. 

 I hope you enjoy this wonderfully light fall recipe. I like to pair this with a homemade tea consisting of black tea, cardamom, saffron and more! I'll be posting that recipe on here soon! 

Let me know in the comments if you have any recipes that are your "go to" recipes for fall! I'd love to hear from you! For more random bits from my life please subscribe in the sidebar! x

September Issue: Marie Claire

Hello There! First off, I'd like to apologize for my little unexpected hiatus. Sometimes life gets in the way of plans. However, during that time I was able to plan out future fashion posts - Hurrah! This week the focus will be on Marie Claire's 2013 September Issue. There were so many wonderful pieces that I fell in love with. Most - if not all - were above my price range. My main objective was to find more affordable options to take the place of the pricey but beautiful original pieces.Here are the items I loved in Marie Claire's September Issue...



If you are interested in any of the items shown, simply click the picture in the slideshow and you will be taken to a web page where the item is available for purchase! These are all things that I look forward to integrating into my wardrobe. I also am looking forward to bringing out old pieces from my wardrobe and wearing them again!

 Which trends are you going to try out this fall? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear from you! For more September Issue posts coming soon, please subscribe in the side bar! x

All of the links in this post that lead to outside web pages are there in order to help you find the wonderful items I have mentioned! I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own. x

Maine - Where The Apples Are Just As Crisp As The Breeze

As I sit in the hallway of my hotel on my last night of my vacation in this wonderful place, I reflect on all of the marvelous moments and memories made. 

Life is fleeting and without these trips, it would lack balance. My life would be a little less bright. While some people were very perplexed when I told them I was going on a girls trip to Maine - my response was "why not?" and I wouldn't have spent my week anywhere else. 

The quaint coastal towns, great food, and amazing shopping made for a wonderful getaway! You don't need extravagant cities or luxurious beach-side resorts to create wonderful memories and enjoy the time you spend with loved ones. Overall this trip has taught me to cherish every moment that you have with those you care about. There will come a day when you won't be able to hear their voice or see them smile. Lock those moments away in your heart and never let them go. I wouldn't have traded this trip for the world! 

York Beach might be small and off the beaten path but I couldn't recommend this little place enough. When I think of a "happy place" and dream of vacation, I think of Maine. Where is your favorite place to visit? Let me know in the comments! 

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" Not all who wander are lost"

J. R. R. Tolkein

September Issue: Lucky Mag

Hello There! September is one of my favorite months for many reasons - the crisp morning air, the start of a new semester (which usually equals a more productive me!), and of course a fall wardrobe revamp! September is when the fashion industry puts out their best and brightest and never falls short on inspiration for the coming season. Naturally, I wanted to take my favorite "September Issue" glossies and share the bits and bobs that inspired me from each of them! This week I'll be delving into the Lucky Magazine September Issue. I took the trends that Lucky Magazine presented and found my own versions that I will be wearing this fall! Check them out below (If you are interested in any of the pieces shown, simply click the item and it will take to you to the link!)

Are you just as excited as I am about these trends? How will you be wearing them? Let me know in the comments - I'd love to hear from you! For more September Issue posts, please subscribe in the sidebar! x

August Favorites

Hello There! Welcome to my....

This month is a short favorites list. I was fairly busy this month with work and preparation for fall semester starting next week so I didn't have much time to try new things. That being said - here are the things that I have had time to love this month :)

1. S Factor True Lasting Colour Shampoo and Conditioner - I had initially gone into ULTA looking for the S Factor Smoothing Shampoo (which smells very strongly on strawberries and cream - a bit to sweet for me)  but then saw that they had a line for color treated hair. I picked up the bottle, smelled it, and was instantly sold. It smells of coconut and almond oils yet still fresh.  After the first use I saw a difference in my hair. Not only did it look healthier (much more shine and body) but it also felt like silk. As for the color preservation, I think it has done well. My blonde hasn't gone brassy at all and I've gone a long time in between salon visits. You can find the shampoo here and the conditioner here - also ULTA is having a buy two get one free with TIGI products! 
2. Murad Clarifying Mask - I heard about this product from Zoe of Zoella on YouTube and decided to give it a whirl. I suffer from mild acne which used to be far worse and since I use two different topical treatments on my skin, sometimes it seems a little lackluster. Therefore, I am always on the look out for new products that will make my skin look and feel refreshed. This little puppy does the trick. I use it on nights when I need to recoup from a long and tiring day. It leaves my skin feeling clean and strong. I will say that I do apply a moisturizer right after rinsing the mask off because my skin feels a little tight, but I'm not sure if that is the product or the fact that I live in dry Colorado. If you want to give it a try you can find it here!
3. Rose Water - There are many benefits to using rose water on your face. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and provides a smoother look and feel to your skin. I had heard about it before but had never really had much motivation to try it. However, a friend of mine had a bottle of rose water she had gotten from a family member and never used and gave it to me. How I could I not try it if it was a free gift? So I tried it and I love it. The smell is a little strong at first but then dissipates and it leaves my skin feeling quite nice. I apply it using a small cotton pad all over my face. You can find it in some local grocery stores but I would get mine at the local middle eastern market. 
4. CamilleStyles.com - I have been so incredibly inspired by this site! They have created a place of creativity and inspiration in so many different areas- fashion, beauty, life, food, and entertaining. I can't get enough. It serves as a inspiration for my blog, not only asthetically but for content as well. Go check it out and let me know what you think!
5. Flower of the Month - Carnations! Now, I am not usually a huge fan of carnations. They are pretty little flowers but my memory of carnation is giving and receiving them on valentine's day in elementary school plus they have never struck me as a particularly inspiring flower. However, they were on sale at the grocery store and I loved the two toned color of these - a peach and orangy-pink combo! I bought two bouqets, one for my desk and one for my bedside table. I love them. They make me happy and have lasted the entire month!
6. Revenge Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger - This book is the sequel to the book The Devil Wears Prada (also a popular movie). I hadn't read the first one but I had seen the movie and loved it. So when my aunt had sent Revenge Wears Prada in a box among other things I thought I'd read it. GOOD CHOICE. I love it! It is just as witty and relatable as the movie. You follow the story line of Andy Sachs as she moves on from Runway and Miranda and starts her life as a married woman with her own bridal mag on the rise. It looks like you can get it from Amazon here!

What have you been loving this month? Leave it in the comments - I'd love to hear from you! If you enjoy reading my posts, please subscribe in the side bar! x

DIY | Lavender Ginger Body Scrub

Hello There! Not long ago I came across a DIY tutorial by LEAF on YouTube and was inspired to make my own body scrub. I tinkered with the recipe a bit, more out of necessity than anything, and I absolutely love the finished product!

Ingredients:

- 2 tbsp ginger, chopped
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- lavender essential oil (I used pure lavender salve, which is made from lavender essential oil, as a substitute and it worked nicely)

The Process:

1. Combine coconut oil, ginger, and (in my case) lavender salve in a small saucepan and heat on low for about ten minutes.
2. Strain the mixture into a medium size bowl and allow to cool to room temperature. Be sure not to let it cool for too long or the coconut oil will settle and begin to harden.
3. Once cooled down, add the sugar and salt to the mixture.
4. At this point, if you are using lavender essential oil add a few drops of the essential oil into the mixture.
5. Jar the mixture and Voila! I recommend using a mason jar with a screw-top lid to ensure that the scrub does not get watered down in the shower. 

I am thoroughly enjoying my scrub and am excited to tweak the recipe to get different scents and benefits! I find after using this scrub my skin feels both quenched and silky. The salt and sugar work to exfoliate and help gently remove any dead skin and the oils keep my skin healthy and soft. If you'd like to take a look at the original recipe check out LEAF's body scrub here! This is not a sponsored post I just enjoy sharing things I love! 

Have you tried any DIY scrubs? I'd love to hear from you and maybe even swap recipes! Stay tuned for more DIYs to come! If you like these posts, please subscribe in the side bar! x

Blumarine Fall 2013 RTW

Hello There! Recently I have been looking through Vogue's online runway catalogue which covers all of the major runway shows for each season. I was investigating the trends for Fall 2013 and I came across this gem of a collection - Blumarine Fall '13 RTW

Photos courtesy of Vogue Runway

Like so many other collections I've seen this fall, there were pieces I loved and pieces I didn't care for. What I have pictured above are some of my favorite looks from Blumarine's Fall 2013 RTW collection. I was drawn to the idea of a design that felt both structured and whimsical. Each look seems to have a certain flow and the detail work in each piece is astonishing. Each look is unique and memorable, from the skirt pant combos, to the darker, edgier pieces pictured in the bottom row, to the fun and flirty look of the dresses pictured in the top row. What more could a girl ask for?

As far as "ready to wear", again, there were some pieces that I personally wouldn't be brave enough to wear out on the streets. However, there were a few exceptional pieces that I would proudly don in the proper setting. This collection was a knockout in my book and I am looking forward to seeing what Blumarine comes out with next. You can find the entire Fall 2013 RTW collection here on Vogue's runway page!

What are your thoughts on the collection? Do you have a favorite from Fall '13? Stay tuned for my September Issue Saturdays - where I will post every Saturday in the month of September regarding my favorite glossy's September Issue! xx

Healthy Living and Old Friends

Last week I made the trek up to Breckenridge to see an old friend from Texas. When life gets crazy I like to take a step back and remind myself of all of the little things in my life that give me joy. My day started early - 6 am early- for the drive through the mountains. Pandora radio and a Xyience were the only things keeping me awake. After I arrived and had a moment or two to enjoy the view, Lauren and I set out to go hiking. It was so amazing to soak in the wonderful views and some quality bonding time. I cherish the friends that I have who can pick up right where we left off without a problem - it's like we haven't been apart for more than a week. The hike took us up to a beautiful waterfall where we sat and chatted for a few minutes while we refueled. I don't think Lauren needed any convincing to stay for another week. In fact, she fully plans on moving to the area as soon as possible. I can't wait to have one of my oldest and dearest friends close - I need a hiking buddy! Here are a few of my favorite snaps from our outing xx

Pure unedited beauty.

She's an odd one but I love her

We made it to the falls!

Who can spot me?

Relaxing at the top

Mr. Beaver was hanging out by my car!

The gorgeous view from Lauren's sister's house

30 Day Snap Day 20 | Hail in August

This was one of the weirdest experiences of my life. One minute it is 79 degrees and the next minute the temperature drops to 69 and it starts to hail. We ended up with a few inches. Just look at those rooftops!!! This is not snow, ladies and gents. xx

A Fresh Take on Fall | Trend Alert

Usually when you think of fall trends, you think of heavy knits and rich colors. However, this fall we are getting a fresh color addition - Rose 

Seen in the form of coats on the Celine runway, a sleek dress at Carven, or a classic Chanel number, blush pink has also not surprisingly made it's way into the clothing lines of retailers such as LOFT and H&M. I personally love this pastel revolution for fall. It allows me to continue to use all of the lovely fresh pieces from summer that I'm not ready to let go of. In the past, I have always found the transition from summer into fall a bit of a tricky one to master but with this reintroduction of pastel combinations in weightier fabrics, this years transition should be a bit smoother. I've noticed that rose pink is not only a constant across the runways and shopping racks, it is also often being paired with similarly muted neutrals. This fall, ladies have a multitude of options and attitudes - try pairing your pink with a warmer neutral such as army green or rust to keep it sweet and delicate, or you can go classy with a bit of edge with understated black accessories. Either can easily be dressed up or down! 

I will definitely be taking full advantage of this trend - What outfits do you have in mind?

 Thanks for stopping by! Come back and see my fall outfit of the day posts (look for the rose pink)! 

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Bloglovin'

Hello There!

Today I went and claimed my blog on Bloglovin'! Now, if you stop by and would like to stop by again - you can follow my blog by clicking the icon in my sidebar over there ----> You'll be looking for the icon identical to the one in this post. I appreciate every reader I might have and I'd like to not only see your smiling face here again but I would also welcome feedback from any readers I have! 

Once again, Thanks for stopping by! x

Missing Family Across the Pond

Today was a day of reminiscing, which in turn served as a brutal reminder of just how long it had been since I had been in touch with my brother and fam across the pond. Life is fleeting and family is something you should hold tight to and keep constant - because through the ups and downs and all of the changes as you move through life, your family is always there. I couldn't be more thankful for every member of my family for being so supportive and loving. xx

July Favorites

Hello There! This type of post is a first for me but it has been on my 'to do' list for quite some time - so here goes! This is my ........ 

oooohhhh, aaaaahhhhh! 

This month I have been loving quite a few things - some beauty and some lifestyle. To start out, these 'favorites' post are going to be random not fashion related favorites. I'm going to save all of my fashion stuff for other posts! 

1. Ojon Volume Advance 2 Minute Hair Mask - This has been heaven in a jar. About once a week, after shampooing your hair apply the mask. I usually only do about midway up the strand to my ends but the first go around I did my roots as well and it did not leave any greasy residue! Basically I've found that this reduces frizz, increases shine, and makes my hair feel healthy and full of body. A+ in my book!

2. Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers - Now most people go for bright colors during summer time. As for me, I prefer neutrals during the summer and dark colors during the winter. Simple. This has become my all time favorite summer color and might pop up again in the winter as well! The color is the perfect baby pink and compliments my skin tone quite nicely. 

3. Bio-Oil - As a model, it is my responsibility to keep my body in tip top shape which includes no scars of any kind if I can avoid it. However, as myself... I am a klutz. Cuts, bruises and scars are inevitable. I had heard about Bio-Oil through friends and multiple places on the internet and decided to give it a shot. Let me tell you. This stuff has already made a difference on old and new scars.[ I am not referring to acne or facial scaring - only those on my legs and arms from being a ditz] I definitely recommend it for anyone who is as clumsy as me! 

4. Pomona Grecian Fig Shea Cream - During the warmer months I am not one for heavy perfumes. I prefer light and fresh lotions. This one has been a long time favorite of mine and I will be devastated if it is ever discontinued.[You can find it at CostPlus World Market]. The scent is light with fruity hints and it seems a bit floral to me as well. All in all, a lovely scent!

5. Dan Brown's Deception Point - While this isn't my favorite of Dan Brown's books, it is chalk full of suspense and I am enjoying it so far! Go Dan Brown!

6. Antiques Roadshow - I am an old soul in many ways but this is pushing it a bit. I can't help it! I might as well be sixty five surrounded by cats but I don't care. I love it. It is so interesting to me to listen to people's stories about these lovely pieces and then to find out what they are worth... blows my mind every time. 

Thanks for reading, folks! xx

30 Day Snap Day 20 | Afternoon Rain

Today's snap is of the bird bath in my front yard. The rain came down hard today! It was lovely. Of course my dog had a little panic attack when he was woken up by the thunder and I ended up with him in my lap, refusing to leave, for the next hour. Big baby. Anyone else enjoy any rain today? I have seen posts about rain on facebook in three different states and in England as well! xx

30 Day Snap Day 19 | So Much Laughter

I found this on Pinterest and laughed way too much. I thought I'd share. xx

30 Day Snap Day 18 | Desktop Joy

Today I wanted to share my little bundle of happiness that currently sits on my desk. My flowers. The lavender color is soothing and they just add ambiance to my space. I just might have to always have a small bouquet in my room. xx

30 Day Snap Day 17 | Two Years

These past two years have been more than I could have ever imagined. It's been a roller coaster ride with ups and downs and I'm not sure where I would be right now had I not had my love by my side. I've said it before and I'll say it again... he is my rock. He keeps me strong, laughing, inspired, motivated, relaxed, and just in tune. I plan on travelling and learning and growing with this man in the years to come. [ mushiness over] To celebrate, we kept it simple with dinner and the next morning we went to brunch at our favorite place: The Original Pancake House. Now this place is well worth the 30-40 minute wait. This time around I got one of the specials, a lemon poppy seed belgian waffle with blueberry compote and of course syrup drizzled on top. Are you drooling yet? It was heavenly. We then found a park and took a stroll. It was such a perfect morning to commemorate the past two years. xx

30 Day Snap Day 16 | Surrounded By Beauty

I am fortunate to live in such a wonderful place. Around every corner is a new perspective of the same beauty. I, like so many others in this day and age, take natural wonders like this for granted. I have a whole world to explore right outside my door and I rarely take advantage of that. I attempted to capture as best I could the magic that happens every evening. Each day is a new view depending on the weather and I might not get the same view ever again (...some deep symbolism for the road). I will let this serve as both a reminder and an inspiration. xx

30 Day Snap Day 15 | Bear with Me Here...

Okay. So I have found that my life is far too unpredictable and crazy to keep a set daily schedule for blogging. However, I will not give up. I will finish this 30 Day Challenge... even if it does take me 60 days. Today's post is just a small reflection on a cherished moment. This is my love on a tractor. That's right. A tractor. You can't get much more country than riding on a tractor in Texas. I took this when visiting family this month and it represents so much for me- family and childhood memories coming together with my current life and love to create more cherished moments to look back on. I cannot wait for all of the memories to come. xx

30 Day Snap Day 14 | Inspiration in Unusual Places

While the CW's show The Carrie Diaries isn't exactly geared towards the average 20 year old, it still is chalk full of inspiration and feel good moments. It is a reminder that you should always mold your future around what you want to who you want to be. That there will be obstacles around every corner but as long as you are happy and are pursuing your dreams, things will fall into place. Plus that 80s fashion is do die for. xx