Hello pigeons! I have spent the weekend giving my good friend from Kansas City a little tour of Boston. It was filled with lots of coffee, good food (of course), some art, some flea marketing and naturally, some shopping! It was a real treat and I feel lucky to have such great friends and live in such a fun city.

As you might imagine, I have been beside myself with this year's trend towards tribal. The patterns, colors, prints and geographic wonderfulness of it all has me a little bit beside myself. I love anything that errs on the side of ethnic and everywhere you look these days you can be treated to a little bit of it. I have taken the liberty of compiling some of my favorite finds for you. I hope it starts your week off with a little wanderlust!

1.) Illume Boho Jar Candles - Marmalade (call:617-484-0093): This new line from Illume is just breathtaking. The patterned jars, the fancy lids and the exotic scents are a perfect storm for a little tribal touch to your decor. Bonus: once your candle is done, how cute would this container be to keep your Q-tips?

2.)Beaded Earrings by AV Max - Cusp: A glorious combination of seed beads and sparkle these fancies will bring light and color to any boring old thing.

3.)Lulu Toluca Print Tunic - Calypso: It's no secret that I love a tunic. In fact, I fully intend to grow old wearing nothing but tunics, caftans and muumuus. You're welcome, honey! This one is just so festive and Mexicali that I just might show up with margaritas, guacamole and bare feet to work tomorrow.

4.)Rupert Sanderson 'Kibo' Wedge - FarFetch: If I had to own only one pair of shoes for the rest of my life, I would want it to be these. (and it would kind of have to...I have expensive taste!) I cannot find a single flaw in this swoony combination of color, pattern, shape and practicality. If only my shoe habit was sponsored....

5.)Rosanna Sammi 'Monsoon' Bangle Set - Cusp: These thread-wrapped bangles will bring a little ethnic to any outfit! I love the colors and the tiny little sparkle of gold thread!

6.)iPhone Case by Sandra Diekmann - Society6: Tribal patterns do not have to be limited to fashion! What better place to pop one than on your technology tether? It's with you all the time anyway right?

7.)Geometric Straw Pouch - Loft: I found this little beauty recently and have finally switched my wallet over to something a little less....as my friends say: "well-loved". It is the perfect size to use as a clutch or shove all your essentials in as a wallet in your larger bag. I had trouble locating it online when I went back for another, but check your local store...they usually have more than the site.

8.)Native Tassel Scarf - Topshop: A bold scarf is such a great and easy way to bring something trendy into your wardrobe without all the commitment. This gorgeous Lurex scarf is such a perfect addition to a tee and crops or a denim shirt. Big on boho, little on the price tag.

9.)Tribal Beaded Bangle - Forever21: OH how I love a chunky bangle! Add a bold pattern and make it under $10 and you've got yourself a must. This black and white version is all of the above.

10.)Pom Burst Tote - Anthropologie: Is it just me or is a neon accent just the thing? This raffia tote is so summery and chic, with just the right amount of "Oh this? I picked it up in Africa...". I might have to go on your next adventure with you!

11.)Cynthia Vincent Platform Wedges - Nieman Marcus: Remember before when I said I would only need one pair of shoes for the rest of my life? Well, I could be talked into two....

12.)Vintage Hilltribe Davenport Ottoman - John Robshaw: I am pretty sure that Mr. John Robshaw is my long lost twin or soul mate or something of the star-crossed variety, because every single time I see something from his line, I get all goose-bumpy and my heart beats a little faster. This Ottoman is no exception. Yes please. Thank you.

What are your favorites? Does this rock your gypsy soul??

xoxo

No, I am not starting your Tuesday with soft-porn starring a young and brooding David Duchovny. Though, that depends on your definition of 'soft-porn'. For some, a collection of beautiful red shoes might qualify. I might fall into that category.

But seriously, with Valentine's Day upon us, those of us in the greeting card industry hope you will find our words best suited to tell the ones you love just that. There are pounds of chocolates, fields of flowers and very limited restaurant reservations to be had. But I say, do yourself (and your love) a favor and take a moment to make yourself feel loved. Now there is a greater point here than shoes (obvs.). If you feel fabulous, you look fabulous, and if you look and feel fabulous, you are fabulous to be around. Fabulous to be around = chemically irresistable. So, go ahead, get a work out in, exfoliate, floss, primp, get out of your stretchy pants...whatever it takes to turn your mojo up a notch. Then, grab a swell pair of red shoes and make an entrance. It never ever fails.

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and I propose that a way to a woman's is through her feet. So here are my favorite sweetheart shoes for this sweetheart season:

1.) Bensimon Slip-ons : yoox

2.)Minx by Stuart Weitzman: Piperlime

3.)Panther by MizMooz: Piperlime

4.)Red Stripe Welliebob : Joules

5.)Ankle Strap by Dansko: Endless

6.)Vivian by Tahari: Piperlime

7.)Gracie pump by Calvin Klein: Macys

8.)Wilton flat by Mossimo: Target

9.)Marmie by Crocs: Piperlime

10.) Lido by Kate Spade: Nieman Marcus

11.) Float pump by ZiGiny: Endless

12.)Hunter Original Wellies Glossy: Shoes.com

13.)Jaclyn by Sacha London: Endless

14.)Fuchia Crochet Classics by TOMS: Toms

15.)Suede Bow Slingback: Boden

There you go! Which are your favorites? What is your favorite way to feel fabulous!!?

xoxo

Ok kittens! It's getting down to the wire! Many places (including Curly Girl and Marmalade) consider this the final cut-off shipping date (pretty much for 2 and 3 day UPS shipments). So click now or forever hold your peace! In honor of this busiest week for our friends in brown, I thought I would tempt you with a few of my faves from Marmalade.

Now, because we don't have a functioning website for the shop yet, you will have to call and talk to an actual human being to place your order, but we like to think of that as quaint. Old School even. Think: Little House on the Prairie. Ok, it's not that bad. You just have to call us and have us ship it to you. We are really nice.

To order any or all of the below items call us at our shop Marmalade: 617-484-0093 and tell us you saw something on the blog that you loved and can we ship it to you? Please and thank you.

Here are some of the brightest and shiniest things in our shop:

1.) Cluster Initial Necklaces: These are a nice take on the classic monogram necklace, but with a quirky twist. Each gold-vermeil letter comes with its own set of baubles and charms. Chains are 17" and lay just right. (colors are as shown, they are not interchangeable)

2.) Orange 'Carmen" Scarf: This gorgeous statement of a scarf is as warm as it is stylish. Made by artisans in India of 100% merino wool this will be her favorite winter fling.

3.)"Milk" Scent Diffuser: This is Coach's favorite scent. He even asks me to bring it home from the shop! A beautiful, fresh, 'laundry-ish" scent is perfect for any room in your home. Made with essential oils, these diffusers, which are made in St. Louis, will never overwhelm you with scent or be too perfumey. Just a perfect, mellow addition to your home.

4.) Yellow Crewel-work Pillow: What a little spot of sunshine this is!? A perfect throw pillow for any little place that needs a pick-me-up.

5.) Tiny Ugg-shaped Lipgloss: I love these silly little things! The sole of this tiny winter boot is filled with lipgloss. Perfect for your little Ugg and lipgloss-obsessed  friends!

6.) Spartina Silver Dew Sling Bag: Oh! This pattern! These beautiful bags, made on Daufuskie Island, SC are just so expertly made and so beautiful you can't believe it. The shape of this bag is the perfect cross between a bucket bag and a hobo. Big enough to get all of your stuff in there, but not like carrying around a suitcase!

7.)Stephanie Johnson Cosmetic Bags: These were new for us for the holidays and are going fast! They are gorgeous with their gold star pattern and perfect-for-all-things sizes. Lined for use with cosmetics but perfect to use as a little clutch for parties. Other colors available.

8.)Fleece-lined Knit Fingerless Gloves: We have had to order these gloves multiple times this season because everyone is buying several pairs!! (I may actually be guilty of just that...) Brilliantly lined with fleece and super warm these little mitts leave your fingers free to use your various devices while keeping your hands toasty! They come in the most magnificent colors too! (Multi is shown)

9.)Chevron Throw: I posted a photo of these fantastic cotton throws awhile back and got a lot of inquiries. These are perfect for the foot of the bed or to cuddle up with on the couch. They come in navy, rust (orange), aqua, khaki and delightful. (Well, that last one I just made up).

10.) Plenty by Ottolenghi: I don't care if you rarely eat a vegetable (which if that's true, we need to talk...) or rarely cook with them, once you get your hands on this STUNNING book you will never be the same. By chef Yotam Ottolenghi, who has some fantastic eateries in London if you get the chance, this mostly-veg cookbook shows even the meatiest of meat lovers how to love the earth's bounty. Fastest selling book in the shop. Hands down.

11.) Lucky Star Necklace by Robindira Unsworth: I am not sure if it is because it is called the "lucky star" necklace or because it is so beautifully made and ever-so-slightly sparkly and hangs just right around my neck, but I have not taken this necklace off since we got this line in. Made of 22K gold (also available in silver) and one beautiful CZ I can't think of a better gift for your lucky star.

Ok! Call soon if you want to scoop these up! We look forward to chatting!

xoxo

If you have a lovely lady on your list and she thinks ever so slightly out of the box, this list is for you. This is for your clever and creative creature, your classic-with-a-twist-of-bohemian bestie, your always-an-element-of-surprise sister, your chic and sparkly soul-mate.

I am in a wintery mood, so these things have a touch of romance to them. A bit of wool, a bit of warmth, animal prints, some candle light and naturally, some sparkle.

1.)  Minnow Drops ~ Anthro: Golden and sparkly and just the right amount of size. These gorgeous earrings are just the thing to go with that New Year’s dress or a cozy sweater and boots. I love the tone on tone here.

2.)  Metalic Leather Cuff ~ Swedart (on etsy): A customer turned me on to these gorgeous hand-made leather and metal bracelets. I love all of the varieties of them, but these were especially magnificent to me. I really like metallic leathers and the combination of the shiny and matte is really nice here. These are expertly made right here in Massachusetts.

3.)  Vintage Floral Tassel Scarf ~ Nordstrom: It may be true that I have rarely met a scarf that I didn’t like, but this tassel scarf calls to me. It says: “Take me on your adventures!” Which means I simply must have a few coming up!

4.)  Fancy Camera Strap ~ Camera Strap Couture: Hand-made in the USA by two moms in California, these beautiful straps are a stand-out in a sea of SLRs. If she is like me and seems to always have one on her shoulder, why not make it beautiful? These are some of the prettiest I’ve found! (Note: they are closed for the holidays as this goes to publish, but you can certainly have it be the first gift of the new year! Shipping resumes Jan 2.)

5.)  Skinny Calf Hair Belt ~ J.Crew: I have a serious love of leopard print, but it has to be the right leopard print in the right proportion. This skinny belt is a perfect accessory for the un-animal print initiated, or the seasoned accessorizer. A gorgeous pop of  pattern for, I’ll say it, just about any outfit…go ahead…try to not love it!

6.)  Floral Sequin Tank ~ Old Navy: Yay!! Sequins!! Seriously, how can you look at sequins and not be happy!? This tank is a perfect neutral color with beautiful metal sequins in a fabulously chic rose pattern. A brilliant little treat for any day she is feelin’ festive.

7.)  Women’s Premium Wellies ~ Joules: Oh that contrast zipper! I love wellies, and it was almost hard to pick my favorites when perusing the vast assortment at Joules. Stripes? Love. Floral? Love. Short. Tall. Shiny. Matte. The possibilities! I settled on these because I love the pop of pink, and this mushroom color would look so cute with lots of cozy sweaters. Good luck figuring out your fave.

8.)  Book Dock Charger ~ Rich Neeley Designs: Probably one of my favorite things of the whole year. This clever guy makes iPod and iPhone docks out of gorgeous classic books! Some are vintage, some are new and he can even make one out of your favorite if you send it!! I can’t imagine anything more perfect for the bookshelf or beside table. In fact, I think I have “Pride & Prejudice” coming my way in a few weeks! (Note: These are custom made and take awhile to ship. Rich offers gift certificates so you can give it at Christmas and she can choose her own book later. Plus, if you use my link you can get 15% off your order! !5% will not apply to GC, but to the ultimate purchase...)

9.)  Pegasus Necklace ~ Stella and Dot: A customer came into my shop wearing this bib necklace and I nearly fell over it trying to ask her where she got it. It is absolutely Cleopatra-esque and looked amazing tucked demurely under a wee cardigan. A total statement piece. All Hail!

10.)Capri Blue Murcury Glass Jar Candle ~ Anthro: My best friend Wendy gave this to me as a gift and I burned it nearly everyday until it was gone. I then gave one to my mom as a gift and she is burning hers every day. I have decided that I want only this candle as gifts from now on. I would take my paycheck in this candle if that were possible. (Well, Coach might have something to say about that…) Bottom line: Get. This. Candle.

11.)Decorate by Holly Becker and Joanna Copestick ~ Marmalade (617-484-0093): If she loves a superior interior, this is the book for her coffee table. This gorgeous, totally readable and completely helpful book is a must-have for all levels. Holly makes design approachable without excuse making and the photos beautiful and full of inspiration.

12.)Homemade Marshmallows Coat ~ Modcloth: This coat makes me all ready for a winter picnic in the woods or a sleigh ride to grandmother’s house. The vintage style and flattering belt are spot on, and well, it’s plaid. What more could she want?

13.) Josephine Handbag by Amy Butler ~ Bowling Green Hats: We have carried this in Marmalade, but are totally sold out. I found some at the website above and recommend that you scoop them up. This roomy bag is loaded with gorgeous details and beautifully made from Amy Butler fabrics. The leather handles are large enough to put over her shoulder, even if she is wearing the aforementioned coat on the aforementioned sleigh ride and the bag is roomy enough to pack for grandmother’s house.

14.) Timex Originals Easy Reader Leopard Watch ~ Piperlime: Um, hello!? Classic watch face, Timex and what? A leopard print band!!? If you hear a thud, it’s me fainting. I can’t think of anything more to say except I am pretty sure Marilyn Monroe had one of these. Almost positive.

Ok girls! I hope I’ve done you proud!! Let me know if there is anything I missed that you can’t live without!

xoxo

10 days til Christmas and let me guess who you have not crossed off your list…he’s handsome, often funny, super practical, ever so hard to buy for and …male. As someone with one husband, one brother, one father and zero sisters, I am right there with ya.

This year, I have been on the hunt and have put together a pretty stellar list of sweet gifts for the guys on your list. They are useful, yet stylish, classy but not stuffy, rugged, yet handsome. This is like the Paul Newman of gift guides! So ladies, help is here. And gentlemen, (that’s you, John from Red Orchard) pass this one on to her if you see anything you like. Santa needs all the help she can get!

1.)  Woolrich Classic Wool Field Coat ~ Woolrich : I am pretty sure all seven of the Pontipee brothers were wearing this coat while wooing them women. (bonus points if you get that) This classic wool coat is classic for a reason. It has been the same handsome thing since the 1800s. Not only is it warm, but Coach would want me to let you know that it sheds water too. (We talk A LOT about the merits of moisture barriers in athletic gear around here…) Win Win. Love Love.

2.)  Kiehls Original Musk ~ Kiehls : This oh-so-refreshing take on cologne dates back to the 1920’s when Kiehls was not a mall store, but an apothecary. It used to be called “Love Oil” which I can understand. He will smell as if he just stepped out of the shower. A very manly shower. Which is such a nice antidote to all things Axe.

3.)  Cheesemonger’s Kitchen ~ Marmalade (617-484-0093): This book celebrates chef and cheesemonger Chester Hastings quarter-century career in the dairy arts with delicious cheese-focused recipes and beautiful photography. Perfect for your fromage-o-phile.

4.)  BOOK iPad cover ~ Ned Relow: Oh be still my book-loving heart! This hand crafted gorgeous bit of cleverness from Ned Relow will satisfy his eye for classic design, practicality and technology in one perfect package. Perfect for the back-pack or bedside table and made from sustainable and natural materials, with this he can have his book, and ‘e’ it too! Made to order.

5.)  Hammond Boots ~ Sundance: You know how I love a vintage design made beautifully modern. These handsome boots look like they were handed down to him by James Dean. Made in the USA with hand-washed leather and bound to become a fast favorite of his feet!

6.)  Zebrawood iPhone Case ~SWcases (on Etsy): I can hardly handle the coolness of this beautiful rare wood, this natural material being crafted to protect our delicate but now necessary tiny tools of technology. The situation is downright poetic. Handmade in San Diego, these gorgeous cases are one-of-a-kind just like him.

7.)  Shaving Supplies from Prospector Co.: This company has taken a shine to the art of shaving. With a nod to posterity and an eye for clean design, they are issuing some fine tools for the facially-follicled. Pictured are Peary & Henson Aftershave and Miss Annie Jones Shaving Oil.

8.)  Baseball Bat Bottle Openers ~Marmalade (617-484-0093) or Uncommon Goods: Is he a basebal fan?! These bottle openers are made from real broken baseball bats from major league games! Available for specific teams (we have Red Sox at Marmalade) or general MLB bats, each comes with an authorization number that links the bat to the player that broke it and the game it was used in. As far as I’m concerned, this is a home run!

9.)  Princeton Tech Headlamp ~ REI: These seem goofy until you wish you had one! Great for biking, hiking, reading in bed, and really handy when the power goes out in a storm these things are great to have around.

10.) Wall-Mount Bottle Opener ~ Vermont Kitchen Supply Co.: Coach and I got one of these as a gift and mounted it on the kitchen island. It is quirky, useful and makes it fun to open bottles! Super stocking stuffer!

11.) Screenprint ~ Monorail (on Etsy): These hand silk-screened prints are ready to frame and perfect to hang in your home or his office. What a clever (and man-friendly) little love note from you to him. Available in several colors.

12.) Whiskey Stones ~ Gents Supply Co. : He loves whiskey, but does he have the stones for it? These little cubes are made out of nonporous soap stone. Keep them in the freezer, then put them in the glass before you pour. The stones will keep the drink cold without diluting it. Nothing watered down about that.

13.) Filson Medium Duffel ~ Filson: Every man ought to have one gorgeous piece of luggage. Something understated, well-made and long, long lasting. This water-repellent (you’re welcome Coach), heavy-duty shoulder duffel is just the thing. He will be classy coming and going.

Okay! That's the best I've got! What is your favorite man-gift??

Happy Giving!

xoxo

Hello Lovlies!! Sorry to have been away so long. This time of year is an absolute circus act in my corner of the world. By the time we have gotten all of our wholesale orders out to stock our lovely stores with Curly Girl goodies, the holiday retail season begins on our website and in our shop, Marmalade. We have been very blessed this year with a fabulous retail season (sing it!) and beyond fabulous customers but it has got the elves working overtime (quite literally in some cases...). The elves all need spa days. For real.

I love every harried minute of it though! No lie. Christmas is my favorite! I love the hustle and bustle and the energy of it all... pretty much if it involves twinkle lights, count me in! The whole town here it seems is bejeweld with tiny lights and folks are in a generally festive mood. I love it. So, between packing orders, helping customers, getting my own house ready for Christmas visitors and trying to get all of the 'i''s dotted and 't's crossed I have been away from the blog, and I've missed you!

SO. 'Tis the season for gift guides! Over the next week I have a bunch to share with you to celebrate one of my absolute joys: gift giving. I am not being the tiniest bit sarcastic here at all. If I could do it professionally, I would. I love trying to figure people out. What makes them tick? What would they never buy themselves? What makes their heart sing? Or, what, in some cases would be super practical and useful, and eliminate one little thing on their 'to-do' list?. These things keep me up nights.

This passion for gift-giving, along with my proximity to the retail/wholesale industry and ever-changing whims makes me, as it has been pointed out, almost impossible to buy gifts for. So, last year, in the spirit of being helpful, and the notion that 'sometimes you have to ask for what you want", I made a list. I sent the list to my family so they might have a guide. It was well received, for the most part (except for by my cousin who found my tastes extravagant...duh.) and has been requested again.

This year I thought I would start the week of Gift-Guides by sharing mine. These are things that I love, have wanted, use often, day-dream of or think are cool. Some are practical, some are extravagant... it is a wish-list after all... and who knows...Santa is a pretty great guy, and I have been very good this year!

Note: I typically very much suggest shopping as locally as possible, but as this is my real list for my real family, and they don't live anywhere near me, I tried to make it as easy for them as possible

1.) Women's Hooded Gilet ~ Joules I wear a puffy vest almost every day when I walk Lucy. This one is a little puffier, and frankly a little chic-er than the one I have been wearing for a few years. I love the secret plaid inside the hood. Loving what Joules is doing!

2.)Twirl by Kate Spade ~ Nordstrom I am a perfume girl, but am pretty picky when it comes to scent. My family sometimes calls me 'the nose' because I have a very sensitive schnoz. I love the lightness of this scent (though, I loved her original one (now discontinued) more!) plus, it comes in such a pretty bottle!

3.)Woolrich Chalet Slipper Socks ~ Sundance I asked for these last year but they were sold out. These beg for lazy Sunday mornings and a New York Times Syle section and crossword. (size M)

4.Kevia Vintage Cocktail Ring ~ Garnet Hill Oh my! I do love sparkly jewels, but this one looks like it came from a far away land and was made just for me! I particularly love the emerald color with the warm gold. Pretty please Santa? (P.S. I'm a size 6)

5.)Heartsease Bowls ~ Anthro I am actually on a strict one-in one-out bowl-policy in my house, but I just really think these are beautiful, plus, they match my holiday place settings!

6.)Adriana Fabric Tote by Fossil ~ Macys Santa already got the low-down on this beautiful bag (and used her coupons!) but I wanted to put it on my list because it is just so dang gorgeous! (and huge! perfect for my honkin' computer!)

7.)Daphne Crown Tank ~ Anthro this tank is just lovely. You can't tell from the picture, but the embroidery is silver metalic so it has a very subtle sparkle to it. I think it will be perfect over skinny jeans with a cardigan and boots. Which is pretty much my uniform.

8.)New York Times 36 Book ~ Tachen: I love the section in the NYT where they show you what to do in a city or town over 36 hours. This book is a compilation of 150 of those places in one book. All over the U.S. and Canada. What a great resource to have around and a fun day-dream book!

9.)Smith's Rosebud Salve ~ Sephora I am totally addicted to this stuff! I have it in almost every bag or pocket and use it all the time. I don't wear lipstick but this makes your lips soft and rosey and keeps them from getting chapped. A perfect stocking stuffer!

10.)TOMS Navy Classics (Size 9) ~ TOMS I have several pair of these shoes and cannot say enough good things about them. I would love a million pairs. They are great to work the shop all day or walk around town. The best part is, when you buy a pair, a pair goes to a child in need. How great is that?

11.)Kate Spade Bubbly Dot Champagne Saucers ~ Lenox These are a total extravagance, but I love love love champagne saucers and have been looking for perfect vintage ones for years, but all of them have short stems. These are the best combination I have found of classic style, a little whimsy and a great pair of stems. (not unlike myself... tee hee...)

12.)Bare Escentuals SPF Mineral Veil ~ Sephora I use this everyday and could always stock up on it. It's the best loose powder I have found.

13.)Ace Pilot Stapler ~ Schoolhouse Electric I have a thing for utilitarian objects when they are beautifully made, and I have a strange love of staplers. The old ones were designed to last and work forever, the new ones I want to chuck through the nearest large pane of glass. This one takes standard staples too, some of my other vintage ones do not. Inconvenient.

14.) Fresh Lemon Sugar Parfum ~ Sephora I told you I was a perfume girl. I carry this with me in my bag all the time. It is completely lovely and addictive and refreshing.

15.) Josie Maran Argan Oil Primer Mist ~ Sephora I am totally obsessed with Josie Maran's Argan Oil line and this primer mist has been the stand out for me. I have been using this everyday for about 7 months now (it lasts a long time) under make-up, and I am actually getting random compliments on my skin. Like the lady at the nail shop, and the UPS guy. It's weird. So, it will be on every list I make, ever.

Of Course the best thing anyone could give me is time. I would love more visits with my Mom, Dad and brother. More time with my aunts and cousins. More romantic dates with my husband and fun-filled time with my friends. Face-time is always top on my list. Always Always. More hours in the day would be nice too..if someone could figure that out.

So, that's what's on my list! What's on yours this year? Don't be shy! Santa is everywhere!

xoxo

Good Friday to you! I am taking a little give-away break (don't worry...there are two more!) to bring you a little fall-inspired style board. It's chilly out and the tights and boots and close-toed shoes are in full rotation but it may not quite be full-on coat season just yet (my very favorite kind of weather). This is the time of year that it's all about the accessories! It's their time to shine before really keeping Jack Frost out becomes the main goal and we get all focused on this "function over fashion" nonsense. Pshaw! It is this time of year that I head for my most happy, colorful and textured knits.

Some of you may know that I have a penchant for anything patterned, and also a little bit of an accessory problem addiction. So when the two meet, I start hearing circus music in my head. There are so many wonderful options out there that I think this might be a 4 part series on scarves alone...but I thought I would start with my true north: stripes. And having just spend a small fortune on fun striped socks to usher in my boots and clogs (oh yes, clogs.) for fall, I will include some of my favorite finds there too.What is better than a perky little peek of pattern under a pant leg or sneaking out from above your boot line? I have thought about it, and not much comes to mind at the moment!

I do have to give a shout out to SmartWool here for making some of the very best and most adorable socks around! They are warm, but not too warm and they last forever! Nice job guys! Also! If you are in the Boston/Cambridge area and love socks, head to Cambridge Clogs for the best selection I have seen. Hands down.

Enjoy!

1.) Striped Infinity Scarf by Tolani ~ Piperlime (sorry y'all! by the time I got to posting this, it appears to be sold out...they might be just backordered.)

2.) Stripe Sock ~ Topshop

3.) Black Stripe Snood ~ Topshop

4.) SmartWool High Isle Sock ~ REI

5.) Colorful Fair Isle Slippers ~ Forever21

6.) Paul Smith Stripe Scarf ~ FarFetch

7.) Epice Plum Stripe Scarf ~ Shop Goldyn (* Hey Santa! This would look LOVELY on me...)

8.) SmartWool Frilly Knee Highs ~ Sahalie

9.) Pinwheel Circle Scarf ~ Madewell

Hope this helps you get a little Cozy! Let me know your faves!

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We also have a winner from the Sweetheart Sponsor Love-bomb give-away!! Thanks for showing them such love! I hope you found some clever, beautiful and interesting things on the way!
 

The SS Number Generator picked:

Comment #41 from Heather G. who found delight in Amy Peter's Studio's Starlight Rings!

Congrats Heather! Emily will be in touch to get you your CGD Holiday loot!!

Side note on Holiday Products: Many of you are wondering when/how you can get a hold of some of the CGD holiday product. I know! It's time! Our holiday cards and boxed sets will be on the website in short order. I will make an announcement when they go live. As for the rest of the product, we have SUCH limited quantities and have no access to more on some of the items, that I will be posting them here on the blog so you guys get first dibs. We will do them first-come first-serve style through our office. It is not an ideal situation, but I don't think anyone knew how dang cute all this stuff was gonna be and how fast it would sell through (except for me, of course!). I will be starting that process next week. Stay tuned and THANK YOU for loving it as much as I do!

xoxoo

I have waited long enough to pay homage to another of my favorite hues. This madness mustn't continue a moment longer! A good solid bold and bright green is just about divinity. Somewhere in the neighborhood of kelly and emerald but not so far as sage or chartreuse (though I also love chartreuse, just not to wear) lies a universally flattering color that draws just the right kind of attention without looking leprechaun-ish.

This is the color that made Scarlett O'Hara look like an heiress and rescued the Von Trapp Family children from the malaise of grey wool uniforms. It is also such a pleasant surprise in home decor and everyday objects...they look endlessly happier for being green.

Here are some of my current favorite examples:

1.) You can never go wrong stepping out in an emerald slipper! These "About the Benjamins" by Poetic License are a must from ModCloth

2.) How is it that Diane Von Furstenberg can do no wrong?! This dress is perfection for any season. At Net-a-Porter.

3.) This Diana Mini Camera is a tiny plastic bundle of fun! Using real 35mm film (i know!) and tons of special effects you can kick it old school and end up with some great photo art. The fact that it is the perfect shade of green is really just icing on the cake! At ModCloth

4.) Speaking of the Von Trapps...this gorgeous pillow from labdesigns on Etsy will have you playing guitar in your living room in no time!

5.) I. Mean. Seriously. Be still my vintage-bike loving heart. In my mind, I am strapping this to the back of my Mini Cooper and heading to that villa in Spain. Holy Cow! Kate Spade at Adeline Adeline

6.) I cannot think of a single thing that this gorgeous bangle wouldn't make better. Not one. single. thing. Talisas Enamel Bangle at Fantasy Jewelry

7.) This gingham shirt will be just as cute paired with a pencil skirt as it will with your favorite jeans and wellies. Cissus Button Up at Anthropologie

8.) David Aubrey had me at hello with these fancy-pants earrings that benefit from being both green and sparkly! Win Win. At Anthropologie

9.) I had the pleasure of meeting the girls from LuluBelles at The Creative Connection this year. I was dazzled by the jewels they were wearing each time I saw them, but when I checked out their site, I knew there was no way I was getting out of there with out seven or eight new baubles. This 'Green With Envy' necklace is no exception!

So those are my favorites at the moment! Do you know of anything I missed? Do Tell!

xoxo

The sun is shining here in Boston and it's gonna be a hot one! Thought I would help conjure up some cool ocean breezes with today's style board. Dedicated entirely to my second favorite color (though it is often a tie): Turquoise! You can call it aqua, pool or teal but any way you slice it this greeny-light blue has worked it's flattering magic on my heart. I paint a wall this color every chance I get and nearly everything looks good beside it. Decorate with it? Of course! Wear it? Please do! Dangle my toes into it? Don't mind if I do! Just about the only thing I won't do with this freshy-fresh color is wear it as lipstick...but never say never!

So, may your day be filled with dreams of desert skies in the evening, far away islands and calm blue oceans. May you remember the days of riding your bike in your bathing suit and the kind of tired that can only come from a long day playing in the surf and sun. May you plan outfits that include something white and flowy on your slightly tan skin with gobs of turquoise colored bedazzlements, and may all your turquoise dreams come true!

1.) Patterned Pillow ~ from PopOColor on Etsy, What a gorgeous pattern in this perfect color! Turquoise accents can jazz up even the most subtle of pallets and what a better way than with a changeable pillow cover!?

2.) Earl Grey Roller Parfum ~ by Royal Apothic at Anthropologie, the soothing scent of tea leaves in an easy and fresh roller-ball applicator. Perfect for the beach bag!

3.) Zig Zag Jaipuri Runner ~ Calypso St. Barth, OH! How I long for this long rug! I would however, need a hallway first. Details.

4.) Pool House Candle ~ by Lafco, You don't need to have a pool house to enjoy this most perfectly scented candle! For that matter, you don't even need a pool! You just need to love the brilliant French lilac scent and love very beautiful things. Check and check!

5.) Melie Bianco Nadine Bag ~ Marmalade (call: 617.484.0093), This large, useful and totally gorgeous bag comes with a cross-body strap option and the hope that you will get to use it on a fantastic vacation! Stay-cations may also apply.

6.) Moroccan Leather Pouf ~ Serena and Lily, My love for all things Moroccan knows no bounds; poufs are in no way an exception. I would have them in every single room.

7.) Frye Allisia Trapunto Thongs ~ Endless I don't know who Allisia Trapunto is, but she must have incredible taste in footwear. These are the most perfect color, and Frye makes some of the very best shoes I have ever owned. All signs point to yes.

8.) Dabney Bib Necklace ~ Loren Hope Designs Remember that fantasy about dressing in flowy white things with gobs of gorge jewelry? Start here.

9.) Rolling Tide Dress ~ Modcloth, It's often not appropriate to dress as an actual mermaid to attend someone's wedding, but wearing this adorable dress should suit your sea-siren needs beautifully without embarrassing your loved ones. Love the layers and the pleating!

10.) Isharya Bangles ~ Net-a-porter, I wish these came in bulk. I would like approximately one thousand of them!

11.) Le Versha Chair ~ Anthropologie, In my mind, when I take tea in my Spanish Garden in the villa that I escape to, this is what I am sitting in.

Do you have any faves? Do tell!

xoxo

A good day to you!! After a fabulous and restful weekend I have decided to spend my free time (shheeah!) making a style-board dedication to my very favorite color of them all: Orange. This was so fun that I think all the style boards this summer will be color-themed! I know, you are giddy with excitement. Oddly, I actually am.

I would like to dedicate this one to the hard-working, delightfully happy and unfortunately often-relegated-to-the-rhelm-of-hunting-or-construction-equiptment color of the day. Let's give it up for ORANGE!! (pause for applause)

May this conjure for you daydreams of creamsicles, bright sunny days, big orange-wedge smiles at a Saturday soccer game, the scent of orange flower in a far off land or a garland of marigolds draped festively in a party tent on a summer night.

1.) Jo Malone Orange Blossom - Saks Fifth Avenue Ever since my trip to Morocco the scent of Orange Blossom sends me over the edge with travel-fever. It makes me want to eat aromatic and savory things and wear a million gold bangles while I explore far off lands. This is a nice balance of pure orange flower water and gentle citrus that you could wear say, to the office instead.

2.) Creamsicles - have a flavor so specific and so perfectly designated that when you taste it you are instantly transformed into a 7 year old standing barefoot next to the Ice Cream truck well past your bedtime on a summer night. Or maybe it's just me. I found a great recipe for healthy home-made versions on this fabulous blog

3.) Retro Dot Underwire Tank - J.Crew It's not itsy bitsy, teeny weeny or yellow, but I think this would do the trick at the beach this summer.

4.) Time Will Tell Watch - Marmalade (call: 617-484-0093) This adorable resin bracelet style watch is in no way a necessity, but neither, I suppose, is a watch at all these days! Why not have fun everytime you look at your wrist!??

5.) Essie Nailpolish in Vermillionaire - Essie My favorite for toes anytime of year. I should never stray. I do, but I just shouldn't.

6.)Vintage 66 Tangerine Judy Hoops - Max and Chloe These are the perfect foil to a workish navy blue button down or that new maxi dress you have been meaning to wear. They make my gypsy heart sing a bohemian rhapsody.

7.)Horkelia Shift - Anthro I saw a lovely lady wearing this lovely dress and I about fell over it was so pretty. It is the most bewitching color of corally-orangish-red it would make the Snow Queen look like she'd been in Cabo for two weeks!

8.) Flutter Stripe Tee - Madewell A subtle stripe is still a stripe and add a sweet tangerine color and it's a summer staple in my book!

9.) Brighton Orange Stripe Snood - TopShop white tee + his chinos + skimmers +this scarf = the perfect outfit for hitting the flea market or the farm stand this summer.

10.) Linnea's Lights Candle in Mimosa - Marmalade (call: 617-484-0093) We have been long time huge fans of this line of hand-poured candles, but this new scent has us reeling! Seriously, we got them in on Wednesday and have not stopped burning one since! Smells like sweet citrusy florals and a brand new day.

11.) Hesta Orange Tie-up Espadrille Sandals - Topshop HOLY MOLY! I wish there were more than seven days in a week to wear these!! Nothing rhymes with orange, but I say everything GOES with it... here's to trying!

Let me know your faves!
xoxo