it girls: rachel bilson

When I am in need of a little fashion inspiration, there are a handful of well-dressed celebrities that I look to time and time again to get my fix. These chic women are my style role models, and though they of course have unique individual styles, they definitely all share a knack for enviable ensembles and an undeniable cool factor.

With that in mind, it's not difficult to see why my first role model pick is Rachel Bilson. I have adored Rachel's look since she first started appearing in tabloids back in her O.C. days. Her style has evolved since then, and my admiration has grown right along with it. I love how her outfits always look put-together but never fussy. Rachel often uses lots of layers, a touch of jewelry, and a great pair of sunglasses to pull an outfit together, things we can all incorporate into our own styles.

On a related note, I was delighted when Piperlime chose her as a guest editor to share her favorite items on their site. Now it's easy to find pieces Rachel would choose for herself to add to your own closet.

violet dining

My love of interior design knows no bounds, so it comes as a bit of a surprising realization (to myself) that this is my first post on the matter.
When I saw a feature on gorgeous shades of violet paint in an issue of Better Homes and Gardens, I immediately envisioned one as a vibrant backdrop for a lively, global-chic dining room. The color makes a strong statement, but then I'd tone it down with more neutral furniture and make it more formal with a little glamour in the accessories and lighting. The collage below doesn't do the vision in my head justice, but you get the idea.

Sherwin-Williams Impulsive Purple
West Elm Capiz Pendant Chandelier and Striped Jute Rug
Z Gallerie Borghese Buffet and Lola Chair
Pottery Barn Benchwright Dining Table

out of town

My mom and I are leaving for a weekend trip to Las Vegas tomorrow, and I couldn't be more excited. Though it is January and the highs only reach the mid-60s, I am still looking forward to some sun, shopping, and sparkle. I can't wait!
Although I am traveling to a less exotic locale than Italy, I justify these inspirational pictures because they embody the relaxed feeling of a weekend vacation. That, and they are Chanel. Chanel is always appropriate.

{chanel venice collection, fall 2009}

Perhaps we can find scenes like these at the Venetian or Bellagio hotels?

All images courtesy of marieclaire.com

nice booties

After weeks of hunting for the perfect pair, I recently bought these black booties from Piperlime. They came just in time for New Year's and since their arrival, have quickly become the MVP of my shoe wardrobe. I've paired them with a lacy top and leggings for New Year's Eve; a leopard blouse, opaque tights, and a black wool skirt for school; and a striped sweater and rolled-up boyfriend jeans for a casual night out. Needless to say, they were a great purchase.

{hive and honey tobago}

sweet tooth

I recently discovered the fantastic baking blog Erica's Sweet Tooth, written by a fellow professional student/blogger. With its collection of creative recipes and lovely photography, it makes this baking enthusiast very excited. Though I am in the midst of a cleanse meant to vanquish my near-constant cravings for dessert, I cannot help but dream of baking some of these sweet treats when I'm through (butterbeer cupcakes! peanut butter cheesecake brownies!). Because, if we're being honest, nothing could rid me of my love for desserts. They just bring me too much joy, especially when they are as perfectly adorable as these confections.

{peanut butter nutella swirl cookies}

{chocolate-covered strawberry shot glasses}

{monkey bread muffins}

All photos and recipes from ericassweettooth.com

lip balm

I am a lip balm addict. I’ve never been much of a lipstick or gloss girl, though I do appreciate a well-placed bold lip color. However, when it comes to balms, I know my stuff. I like a balm that absorbs quickly but not completely, doesn’t taste phony, and makes my lips feel super-soft. Here are my top picks.

From top to bottom:

Say Yes to Carrots Lip Butter- organic and fabulous, the carrot flavor is my favorite

C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve- a delicious hint of rose in a multi-purpose balm

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm- classic pepperminty smoothness

Nivea A Kiss of Smoothness- goes on velvety smooth with a slight nutmeg flavor

EOS Lip Balm Sphere- its funny shape makes it a conversation starter, but what it lacks in lip-balm-dispenser-normalcy, it makes up for in flavor and staying power

MUAH!

cleanse

In lieu of resolutions this year, I decided to ring in 2012 with a two-week detox. I thought it would be the perfect way to feel better after all the holiday junk food I ate and have a fresh start to the year. I found a great cleanse in Whole Living magazine (you can view the web version here) and condensed it a bit because I'm going out of town next weekend. Frankly, I don't have the willpower or desire to detox while on vacation.
Actually, I'm learning, I may not have the willpower or desire to detox at home either. Today is day 4 of the cleanse, and it's been a difficult one. The novelty of the super-healthy meals has worn off, and I'm running out of smoothie ingredients. I could have sworn I smelled cheeseburgers at the gym. I consider myself to be a pretty healthy eater normally, but I appreciate an occasional indulgence. Indulgences are not included in a cleanse. Bummer.
On the upside, the magazine included lots of really delicious recipes that I think I'll continue to make after I'm done detoxing. And despite my yearning for foods I'm not supposed to eat, I don't feel hungry all day or anything. I know that if I keep going, my cravings will decrease and I will feel great by the end of this. I've got to keep at it- so wish me luck!

wishlist: boots

Gorgeous shoes are a weakness of mine, and in the winter, nothing beats fantastic
boots. Here are a few pairs I'm currently craving, though not all practical for braving
a January snowstorm.
1. Chloé Tucson Boots
2. Tory Burch Duck Boots
3. Paola Ferri 7153 Boots
4. Sam Edelman Renzo Booties
5. Pierre Hardy Shoe Booties
6. Minnetonka Tramper Boots