What I'm Reading Now: The Fox & She

I'm thrilled to feature Blair from The Fox & She today! Blair has a chic sense of style, a passion for design and the most adorable dog Oliver (otherwise known as the fox). I love browsing The Fox & She for new recipes, DIY projects and stylish items to add to my wardrobe. Blair is also an extremely talented web & blog designer (she designed Project Soiree) behind Leap Marketing & Design. Check out her blog and if you're interested in giving your blog a facelift check out her portfolio!

 

 

Get to know Blair:

1. What are you currently reading?

Lonny Magazine! We just got a new apartment and move in at the end of the month so I'm on the hunt for decor inspiration. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

This is tough because it depends on my mood, but I pretty much always love homemade Mexico City-Style Soup and thin crust pizza - Piece and Homeslice are two of my favorites! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

The people! I've met so many talented, driven, and inspiring women from all over the country because of blogging. Being a business-owner, it's amazing to be surrounded (even if it's virtually) by like-minded people! I also like that it's turned me into a better photographer.

4. Five things on your wish list

1. Souk Rug 
2. A Joyce Howell painting 
3. These jeans shorts 
4. This Chloe bag in cashmere grey
5. This Mara Hoffman dress

5. Favorite quote?

'Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.' - Helen Keller
Reminds me to do bold things and live my life to the fullest, even if it scares the sh*t out of me.

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

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Party Favors:
Loving the new Garance Dore & Rifle stationary
Things you could do instead of worry
50 things you probably didn't know about Chicago
Champagne basics (cheers!)
Style lessons learned from Sex & The City

Also...

Looking forward to Go Blog Social with WhatRUWearing this week!

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Etsy Finds

I'm slightly obsessed with browsing Etsy and finding new and unique items for my home or wardrobe. Here are five of my latest finds that I'm dying to purchase from Etsy.

1. Pearls & Pastries - Sequin Hangers

2. Rachillustrates - XO Typographic Print

3. Printmeneer - Diamond Cookie Cutter

4.  AnotherCase - Quote Phone Case

5. Elizabeth Perry Collections - Gold Bumble Bee Bobby Pins

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Nobody's Perfect

Turning 28 last week was quite a milestone for me. Each year I tend to reflect on where I am and where I think I should be in life by creating goals and expectations for myself. More often than not I strive for perfection to reach these goals but this year I'm determined to set a different tone. I'm embracing life and understanding that "nobody's perfect" which is why this J.Crew tee was the best birthday gift. This year I'm striving towards progress and not perfection and embracing the journey.

 

 

 

Coat: J.Crew / T-Shirt: J.Crew / Jeans: Gap / Sneaker: Topshop (similar)/ Sunglasses: Ray Ban/ Hat: H&M/ Bag: VJStyle

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Bavette's

Last week I was extremely excited to celebrate my birthday at Bavette's with two of my best friends. This restaurant had been on my radar for quite awhile and let me tell you this place didn't disappoint. When you first walk in you'll be transported back into the 1920's with a cozy and romantic atmosphere of an elegant French bistro. The menu has a little something for everyone from seafood to steak and also an impressive vegetarian menu.

 

First of all don't skip out on the fresh sourdough bread that's delivered to your table. I know you're thinking you don't want to fill up on bread, but this bread is phenomenal and not to be missed. My friends and I ordered items tapas style to share and started with the famous shrimp cocktail. The shrimp we're extremely fresh and the dijonaise sauce was perfection.

 

 

We also ordered the baked goat cheese with a red tomato sauce and garlic bread, smoked whitefish ceasar salad (one of my favorites of the night), and the elote style corn with chili, lime and parmesan (need to recreate this at home). The food, decor and my company for the night was the perfect way to celebrate turning 28.

 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Eightysixed by Emily Belden

I'm so excited to feature Emily Belden as part of my "What I'm Reading Now" series today! Emily is a local Chicagoan and the author of my new favorite book Eightysixed. This memoir is a must-read for every 20 or 30-something girl that can relate to failed relationships and the roller coaster journey of finding yourself. Trust me this book is addictive and you'll probably find yourself laughing and crying at some point. Project Soiree readers can grab your own copy of the book for 30% off with code QF73U until April 24! Use this link to purchase: Eightysixed

Get to know Emily:

1. What are you currently reading?
The Dinner by Herman Koch - it's a book about a dirty little secret that gets revealed to the reader over the course of a fancy dinner. The book is even sectioned out by courses instead of chapters. It's wild.

2. What inspired you to write Eightysixed?
My first real heartbreak was bubbling over inside me and the only thing that made me feel better was to write about it. Eventually hilarity overtook the heartache, and I realized: this could be a book. So I made it one.

3. What's your favorite thing about writing?
It's the only thing that makes me feel better instantly (ok, that and red wine). I can have any kind of hellacious day, then open up my Word document, pick up where I left off last time, and then all of a sudden, all is right in the world again.

4. Five things on your wish list

1. For every 20 or 30-something girl in America to read Eightysixed and realize the world has a funny way of helping you find yourself when you are utterly, emotionally lost.
2. For chocolate milkshakes to come out of my faucets instead of water.
3. Reservations at Alinea.
4. Vanderpump Rules to be renewed for a 3rd season.
5. A good hair day everyday for the rest of my life.

5. Favorite quote?
"Would you like to see a dessert menu?"

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

 Image Found Here

Party Favors:

This LOFT Chicago Guide featuring Liz from Sequins & Stripes is perfection

12 things to love about Spring and a Spring To-Do List

Wake up to the smell of bacon

Amazing balloon art

I'm dying to try this Toasted Coconut Popcorn 

Also...
Thank you everyone for the kind birthday wishes! I'm so thankful for such amazing friends and family.

xoxo

PS

Cheers to 28!

Today I'm celebrating my 28th birthday and the first day of Spring with cupcakes, champagne and macarons (did you know it's National Macaron Day?). Looking back on this past year I'm so grateful for the experiences I've had, the friends I've made and the support of my close friends and family to continue following my dreams. Cheers to 28!

Image Found Here

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Minty Fresh

I'm currently obsessed with mint this spring that adds a fresh and airy element to any outfit. From sneakers and dresses to sunglasses and earrings here are some of my favorite minty fresh picks.

Essie Mint Candy Apple Nail Polish/ J.Crew Colorblock Leather Pouch/ Gap 1969 Tropical Always Skinny Skimmer Jeans/ Old Navy Lace-Up Canvas Sneakers/ Topshop 60s Lace Shift Dress/ French Connection Snake Satchel/ BaubleBar Lacquer Palm Drops Earring/ Super Sunglasses Gals Caos 

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Bar Toma

Last week I made a little trip to Bar Toma with Rachel from An Eventful Life for dinner and a Dabble class on Calligraphy (crossing another thing off my 101 in 1001 list). I was excited to finally check out Bar Toma after hearing such amazing reviews about their pizza. Although Bar Toma is located close to the Magnificent Mile this restaurant isn't a tourist trap (trust me). With Chef Tony Mantuano on the scene this Italian restaurant is the real deal. 

 

Rachel and I ordered the Power Pizza with spinach, garlic, lemon, pecorino Romano, and mozzarella. The crisp crust from the wood burning oven and the citrus flavor from the lemon were gave this pizza some extra character.

You can also find a mozzarella bar, gelato bar and espresso bar at Bar Toma to satisfy your Italian food cravings. I would highly recommend saving some room for the Riso gelato to end your night on a sweet note. 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Isn't That Charming

Isn't That Charming has all the inspiration you need to live a charmed life. Emily has such a great sense of style (I'm in love with this fedora) that combines classic and trendy pieces in perfect harmony. She also has a creative side with fun DIY projects (these paper letters are adorable) and home decor ideas. Brighten your Monday and check out Isn't That Charming for some much needed inspiration.

Get to know Emily:

1. What are you currently reading?
"The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt and "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. I started "The Goldfinch" recently and haven't been able to put it down, it has such an intense story line and it's so well written! "The Alchemist" is a book I've read a thousand times and has personal significance to my fiance and I, so we're trying to choose a passage from the book to read at our wedding.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
In terms of restaurants, the Athenian Room is by far one of my Chicago favorites! Even though I'm a regular there, I love to try out new places. A recent new favorite is Eataly, their food is amazing and tastes like it's straight from Italy.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
I'd say my favorite thing about blogging is the ability to creatively express ideas, thoughts and projects. The blogging world is filled with so many talented people (like you!) who I continually am inspired by every day!

4. Five things on your wish list

1. Fabulous nude heels
2. Gold multi-layer rings
3. Maxi skirts. This one from Anthropologie is beyond words.
4. A pair of New Balance retro sneakers to peruse the city in. These are adorable.
5. A Rebecca Minkoff bag

5. Favorite quote?

"From the center of my life came a great fountain." - It's a line from the poem "The Wild Iris" by Louis Gluck. 

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

 

Image Found Here

Party Favors:

50 healthy habits every girl should have

Chicago's best pizza places (Stella Barra and Nellcote are amazing)

I love this interview with SJP (I hope my future living room includes a ping-pong table)

A happiness trick

Second City Chicagoans read warm-weather TripAdvisor reviews

Also...

 My friend Erin and fellow blogger (Color Me Styled) recently launched a consulting business for businesses and bloggers. Congrats Erin!

Join me with WhatRUWearing and the Blues Jean Bar on Tuesday to get some tips for styling white denim

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Splurge vs. Steal

If you're looking to add some of the hottest trends to your wardrobe for a fraction of the price I have you covered today. Check out these fun accessories that will keep you on trend and on budget this season.

Splurge: Anya Hindmarch Vaughan Leather Shoulder Bag

Steal:  Old Navy Faux-Leather Tasseled Bucket Bag

Splurge: Christian Louboutin Pigalle Spikes 

Steal: Zara Leather Ballerina Flats with Studs

Splurge: Joie Kidmore Slip on Sneaker

Steal: Topshop TIKA2 High Vamp Skaters

Splurge: Clare Vivier Sweetheart Coin Pouch

Steal: H&M Wallet

Splurge: Anthropologie Double Pearl Necklace

Steal: GoJane Oversized Faux Pearl Choker

xoxo

PS

Weekly Pick: Spring Forward

Winter made another appearance in Chicago today, but I'm still dreaming about warmer spring weather and the day I can finally put my North Face jacket in the back of my closet. Here a roundup of some favorite looks and trends for this spring.

1. Midi Skirts

2. Slip on Sneakers

 

3. Mules

4. Bucket Bags

Images Found Here, Here, Here, Here

Check back tomorrow for some inexpensive options to rock these trends!

xoxo

PS

Tasty Tuesday: Avocado Toast

Sometimes keeping it simple is best which is why I have a slight obsession with avocado toast. Avocado toast is the perfect breakfast, snack or lunch and it's so easy to make with a few ingredients and also super healthy.

Ingredients:

1/2 of a ripe avocado

1 piece of whole grain/whole wheat bread

salt & pepper

Directions:

Toast the bread and spread the avocado on top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Take your avocado toast to the next level with these additions:

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Posh Meets Pavement

Posh Meets Pavement combines your classic girly indulgences with running and fitness which is the perfect combination. I love Sierra's blog for information on new fitness classes, a healthy recipe (I'm dying to try this brussels sprouts recipe with balsamic glaze) or helpful inspiration to keep me motivated. Hit the pavement and check out Posh Meets Pavement!

Get to know Sierra:

1. What are you currently reading?

Jessica Alba's The Honest Life and Mark Sisson's The Primal Blueprint. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

I have a recent obsession with celery root and cauliflower mash. The recipe is so easy, I don't even know if it can be classified as a recipe. THIS is the recipe I loosely follow when whipping up this simple dish.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

Blogging made my move to Chicago so easy. As soon as I arrived, I had a bunch of friends with similar interests waiting for me. I also love that my family can keep tabs on me and get a better sense of my life by reading my "voice" and seeing snapshots of my life in Chicago.

4. Five things on your wish list

1. New Jack Rogers in anticipation of Spring!
2. A curling iron that works on my thick hair
3. A roasting pan
4. A custom lacquer tray from Iomoi (like these)
5. The perfect pair of white jeans (tight in all the right places, false pockets in the front, and magically take off 10 pounds)

5. Favorite quote?
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

xoxo

PS

Happy Friday + Links

Image Found Here

Party Favors:

Signs it's time to clean out your closet...hello spring cleaning

19 amazing places to see before you die

Girl Scout cookies paired with wine (best.combination.ever)

How to sound business-y

The best way to reheat pizza

Also...

Don't miss SJP at Nordstrom today as she promotes the launch of her new shoe line!

Discover some new music with my March Spotify playlist

Mark your calendar with these great Chicago events this month

#WRUW sweatshirts are now available to purchase! Free shipping ends today

xoxo

PS

Fab 5: Chicago's March Check List

1. Chicago Chef Week

If you missed out on Restaurant Week last month take advantage of Chicago Chef Week from March 16-21. You can enjoy a 3 course lunch for $22 or a 4 course dinner for $44 at participating restaurants (beverages, tax and gratuity not included in prices). I would recommend lunch at Nico Osteria and dinner at North Pond.

2. Cedar & Rush x Bloomingdale's

Join Nicole from Cedar & Rush at Bloomingdale's on March 13 to kick off spring shopping! Nicole will give you tips on how to dress for the farmer's market, date night, vacation, shopping on the Mag Mile and summer weddings with the latest pieces from Clover Canyon, Parker, Milly and more!

3. WhatRUWearing x The Blues Jean Bar - White Out Party

Head over to The Blues Jean Bar on March 18 for a White Out party with WhatRUWearing! Farissa and I will be showcasing the best ways to style and shop for white denim this spring. You can also enjoy wine, light bites and 15% off your purchase that night. 

 

4. Nacional 27 Wine Nights

Make your way to Nacional 27 this month on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday for wine nights where you can choose from eight different sparkling, white and red glasses of wine for only $5. You can also enjoy half-priced tapas and ceviche in the lounge from 5-7PM. 

 

5. Boy & Bear at Lincoln Hall

If you're in the mood for a concert this month I would highly recommend Boy & Bear at Lincoln Hall on March 29. Check out their new album Harlequin Dream on Spotify!

xoxo

PS