Monday, June 30, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: Sportsanista

I came across Sportsanista via Instagram and instantly started following this sports meets fashion blog. Mary has such a love for fashion that incorporates current trends with accessible and affordable finds (two of my favorite things). Sportsanista is a must read for game-day fashion and style inspiration!


Get to know Mary:

1. What are you currently reading?
During the summer months I generally load up on as many "beach reads" as I can. This summer I started with "Beautiful Ruins" by Jess Walter and I'm now reading "Where We Belong" by Emily Giffin. My online guilty pleasures consist of Corals and Cognacs (she is a fantastic writer and hilarious!), Pink Peonies and A Pair & A Spare (for her amazingly creative DIY projects).

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
I live in the West Loop so I'm somewhat of a foodie by association. There are a number of amazing restaurants in my neighborhood - I mean they don't call it restaurant row for nothing! With that said, I like to venture out of my neighborhood to explore other neighborhoods in Chicago. Antique Taco in Wicker Park is one of those places that I visit more than my parents. The owners are the loveliest people you will meet and their food is equally as lovely. If you haven't been, you must go!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
This experience has brought so many new and wonderful people in my life - aka bloggers. I love the networking aspect and sharing my passion with others who share the same ones!

4. Five things on your wish list?
  1. Valentino Rockstud pumps - who doesn't?!
  2. Ray Ban Mirrored Sunnies
  3. These patterned Vans
  4. This straw tote with tassels from Everything But Water
  5. ASOS Wrap Dress - perfect for wedding season!
5. Favorite quote?
"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." Albert Einstein

xoxo

PS

Friday, June 27, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


1. Planning a weekend getaway this summer? Christine from The View From 5 ft. 2 has your weekender bag packed with all the essentials
2. The Man Repeller is inspiring me to try barrettes
 3. The Fresh Exchange has the best travel guide to Traverse City (my favorite summer vacation spot)
4. Looking for a creative spark? Rouge & Whimsy has 5 tips to stay creative in a rut
5. I'm loving the Glitter Guide for eLUXE t-shirts
6. These boozy popsicles are perfect for summer
7. I'm adding these Chicago food favorites from See (Anna) Jane to my must-try list
8. I was honored to be featured on An Epicurean in the Windy City's new series this week!

Also...
I can't wait to check out the grand opening of Fig & Olive this weekend
Head to Madewell on Monday for a fun event with Lake Shore Lady


xoxo

PS

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Fab 5: Beach Essentials


1. Get in a tropical state of mind with this palm tree print beach towel from Target
2. This straw fedora from H&M is the perfect beach accessory
3. Protect yourself from the sun and stay stylish with this sailor-stripe rash guard from J.Crew
4. Enjoy a glass of rosé at the beach with a wine tumbler
5. #GIRLBOSS is a great read for the beach (I can't stop reading it)

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Weekly Pick: Summer Recharge

As a blogger and someone who works in social media my phone is constantly in my hand checking Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Snapchat along with texts and emails. It's slightly ridiculous how much I check my updates so when my phone unexpectedly died last week I had a momentary panic attack. How will I upload an Instagram photo? What will I do without Twitter?

While I was browsing through Pinterest I came across this photo and it hit close to home. There's nothing wrong with uploading photos at a rooftop bar, my daily outfits, peonies from the farmers market or lounging at the pool but why not leave the phone in my apartment for an afternoon and make some memories that are just mine.

This isn't an easy goal to disconnect for a day or two, but I realize it might actually keep me better connected with the people and experiences around me. Instead of trying to get the best Instagram shot of a drink I'm going to focus on talking to the person next to me and be actively present. Last summer I turned off my phone for a weekend as part of my 101 in 1001 list and I became more aware of my surroundings and creatively inspired. My goal this summer is to cut back on social media and make some memories that are just mine without a phone in my hand to capture the moment. Would you considering cutting back on social media or taking a weekend to recharge?

Image Found Here

xoxo

PS 

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Heritage Bicycles

After months of searching for the "perfect" coffee shop in my neighborhood I've finally found exactly what I was looking for at Heritage Bicycles. You might be wondering why a bike shop has a coffee shop but it's more than just bikes and coffee at Heritage. Heritage is all about community and their space is perfect for working on your laptop or sitting outside with a good book and a cup of coffee.


The bicycles at Heritage are unique since they focus on full customization and are assembled here in Chicago. Check out the different bikes they offer and how you can customize your ride to fit your style. 


Not only does Heritage offer incredible bicycles, but they also offer incredible coffee and pastries from local Chicago shops including Southport Grocery, La Flournette and Glazed and Infused.


Heritage Bicycles
2959 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
xoxo

PS

Monday, June 23, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: The Golden Girl Blog

I recently met Jess from The Golden Girl Blog at the 52Eighty grand opening party and her blog is one of my daily reads. I love her sense of style, delicious recipes, Chicago recommendations and inspirational posts. From fashion, food, decor, and travel The Golden Girl has it all!


Get to know Jess:

1. What are you currently reading?
I am a huge book over TV gal, but lately I haven't had time to crack a book in months! But my daily digital reads include Clementine Daily, The New Potato, The Glitter Guide and of course, The Everygirl (but I guess I'm a little biased!) I also get girlishly excited when a new Bon Appetit arrives in the mail.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
That's a tough one. With so many amazing new restaurants Chicago has to offer, it's hard to choose just one! But a recent favorite is Grange Hall Burger Bar in the West Loop. It's my favorite for a casual date night. One of my favorite recipes is Coq Au Riesling, which is posted on my blog awhile back!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
So many things! But the friends I've made in the blogging community, the creative expression it gives me, and of course - the support from my readers. The best thing is the world is to get a note in my inbox telling me that I've inspired someone. There's not much more fulfilling than that!

4. Five things on your wish list?
  1. These Birkenstock inspired Sam Edelman Sandals (in white!)
  2. A Billy Joel record (I'm going to his concert in Wrigley in July and I'm beyond excited!)
  3. Magenta lipstick
  4. A new print for my gallery wall from Made By Girl
  5. This awesome cutting board (I am from the West Coast, after all!)
5. Favorite quote?
"Live life in such a way that if a photograph were taken at random, it would be a cool photograph." From the book, One Day by David Nicholls

xoxo

PS

Friday, June 20, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


1. I loved this article from The Everygirl on embracing rest in a culture of busy
2. Cait from pretty and fun has 5 tips to make your mornings better
3. How to tell you're at a Pinterest wedding 
4. Emily from Cupcakes & Cashmere has 8 entertaining tips that are a must-read 
5. The perfect Chicago Summer Bucket List from Adrian James
6. These #RealBloggerBeauty stories are amazing!
7. If you're looking for a new summer read I would highly recommend The Silver Star by Jeanette Walls
8. I might need this custom calligraphy name stamp

Also...
Head over to LOFT on Monday and join HOT PINK style for a Fashion Bash
The WCBC has their June Happy Hour at the Kensington Roof Garden & Lounge on Tuesday
I'm looking forward to some sunrise yoga with Equinox at Hotel Lincoln
Join Sequins & Stripes at Kate Spade on Thursday for a shopping event
Don't forget to celebrate the first day of summer this Saturday!

xoxo

PS 

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Fab 5: Summer Beauty Products


1. This Leland Gal bag is made in Michigan and the perfect pouch to hold my favorite beauty products.

2. I'm currently obsessed with the L'Oreal Voluminous False Fiber Lashes mascara that delivers amazing volume and doesn't smudge on hot summer days.

3. For shine-free coverage I've been using bareMinerals Prime Time primer that helps control excess shine and protection from the sun with SPF 15.

4. It took me a long time to find the perfect red lipstick but the Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick #301 is easy to apply, lasts throughout the day and the best color for my skin tone.

5. I love bright nail polish during the summer and Essie's Lapiz of Luxury is a deamy light blue hue.

6. To avoid dry skin I use Fresh Brown Sugar Body Cream with shea butter and vitamins C & E to smooth my skin.

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Weekly Pick: Ear Jackets

My latest fashion obsession are ear jackets that add a fun element to typical stud earrings. Ear jackets are the new ear cuffs and are a little more subtle but still make a statement. For summer months when I love to wear my hair in a loose bun or braid these ear jackets are the perfect accessory.

Images Found Here, Here and Here



Shop The Post:




xoxo

PS

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Spaghetti Limone Parmeggiano with Sugar Snap Peas

If you didn't already know I love all things Italian and all things pasta. This spaghetti recipe is super easy and quick which makes this the perfect weeknight meal. The fresh lemon and crisp sugar snap peas are a great combination with the al dente pasta and Parmesan cheese. For a weeknight meal under 30 minutes this recipe is a winner.


Spaghetti Limone Parmeggiano with Sugar Snap Peas (Adapted from Gwyneth Paltrow's recipe)
Ingredients:
3/4 pound (3/4) box spaghetti
Salt
1 lemon
1 1/2 cups finely grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspon freshly grouond black pepper
2 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3-5 tablespoons of pasta water, to thing
Sugar snap peas

Directions:
Boil the spaghetti in salted boiling water, according to the package directions.

Meanwhile, using a Microplane, grate the zest from the lemon into a large mixing bowl. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the bowl (I like to to use the grater as a strainer - one less thing to clean). Add the 1 1/2 cups Parmesan, pepper, and a pinch of salt and mix in the olive oil to form a wet paste.

Remove and discard the stem end and string from the sugar snap peas. Heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium high heat. Add the sugar snap peas, salt and pepper and toss occasionally until the sugar snap peas are crisp tender. 

When the spaghetti is perfectly cooked, add 2 or 3 tablespoons of the cooking water to the lemon and cheese mixture. Add the spaghetti to the bowl and toss thoroughly, adding another tablespoon or 2 of pasta water if necessary so that the sauce coats each strand. Add the cooked sugar snap peas and serve each portion with a sprinkle of salt, a fresh grind of black pepper and a few gratings of extra Parmesan.


xoxo

PS

Monday, June 16, 2014

#RealBloggerBeauty - The Persuit of Perfection


When Maya from Charmingly Styled emailed me about her project #RealBloggerBeauty I jumped on board to share my story. Truth be told writing my story hasn't been an easy process and I've been re-writing sentences in a pursuit of the "perfect" story to share. 

When I started Project Soiree I wanted the blog to be my little side project to celebrate the things I love in life including food, fashion and my favorite spots in Chicago. But soon I noticed I was comparing my blog to endless other blogs in the blogosphere and trying to just "fit in." I lost sight of myself by writing about things I thought other people wanted to read instead of staying true to myself. The pursuit of perfection took over and through comparison I lost the joy of Project Soiree.

It took some re-evaluating last year to bring myself back to reality and understand that my voice has meaning and individuality is extremely important. It's still a work in progress but I've learned to be open to my own ideas and encourage others to do the same. I've met such incredible bloggers since I started Project Soiree and they've truly inspired me to stay true to who I am. I have the word "joy" tattooed on my wrist and it's a daily reminder for me to remember the joy I find in my everyday life. My goal is to continue celebrating the joy I find and share my passions with you here on Project Soiree. 

"Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary." Cecil Beaton

Image Found Here
 
xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: An Epicurean in the Windy City

Today I'm thrilled to feature Mark from An Epicurean in the Windy City as part of my "What I'm Reading Now" series. Mark is a sommelier, wine consultant, restaurant veteran and very much into men's fashion (he also contributes men's fashion advice on WhatRUWearing). I love his weekly vino reviews (this is my new go-to wine at Trader Joe's) and his inspirational take on men's style that helps the ladies out there with the non-stylish men in their lives.


Get to know Mark:

1. What are you currently reading?
Currently, I am reading "The Juice" by Jay McInerney. It's a collection of wine essays by him that were featured on the Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker, and other periodicals.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
My favorite current restaurant has to be either Avec or Bavette's.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
My favorite thing about blogging is all the great people I've met, the friendships that have formed with those great people, and the incredible support from them as well. 

4. Five things on your wish list?  
  1. Be the best men's fashion and lifestyle blogger in Chicago
  2. Educate more people on wine and the joys of wine
  3. Have a wine bar in Chicago
  4. Be the best friend I can be to the people in my life
  5. Live in Spain again in the near future
5. Favorite quote?
"Wine is the most civilized thing in the world" - Ernest Hemingway

xoxo

PS

Friday, June 13, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


Party Favors:
Five cooking habits brought back from Rome
These Rifle & Tattly temporary tattoos are adorable
The best bubbly for toasting
Super easy 2 ingredient recipes

Also...
Don't forget Father's Day on Sunday (I love this card)
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Check out my June Check List  and make your way to Taste of Randolph and the Wells Street Art Festival
Head over to Madewell on June 19 for a shopping event with Gold Coast Girl

xoxo

PS

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Fab 5: Chicago's June Check List

1. For great music (and food) head to Taste of Randolph
The Taste of Randolph is one of my favorite summer festivals in Chicago. I mean who doesn't love amazing food and music? This year the lineup includes Minus the Bear, Cayucas, and Kaiser Chiefs so don't miss out!


2. Get style advice at Madewell
I love Madewell so when I heard both the Gold Coast Girl and Lake Shore Lady were hosting events this month I was pretty excited.  See you there!

3. Wake up with some sunrise yoga
Equinox is hosting sunrise yoga at the Hotel Lincoln on Wednesdays this month. Start your day off with a great view and workout! RSVP to RSVPLincolnPark@equinox.com


4. Admire some amazing art at the Wells Street Art Festival
The Wells Street Art Festival is my favorite festival of the season to hang out with friends and check out some amazing artwork. I would also recommend checking out Andrew Belle's performance on Saturday. 

5. See a movie in the park
Grab your friends and head to a nearby park for Movies in the Parks. I'm super excited to see Ghostbusters next week at the Chicago History Museum. You can browse the full schedule and find a movie in your neighborhood.


xoxo

PS

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Weekly Pick: Ready to Romper

Rompers are making quite a splash this summer and I'm diving right into the trend. I'll admit I was on the fence with this trend, but honestly it's the perfect piece for warm summer days and super easy to dress up or down. Are you ready to romper?

Printed Romper
Printed Romper
Printed Romper
Printed Romper
Printed Romper
Printed Romper
 Romper: H&M (similar)/ Jacket: Old/ Hat: H&M (similar)/ Heels: Windsor (similar)/ Sunglasses: Ray-Ban/ Purse: Forever 21/ Nail Polish: Essie Lapiz of Luxury 

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well.

xoxo

PS

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Looking for a quick and easy summer salad for lunch? Look no further and try this healthy Mediterranean Chickpea Salad that takes only 10 minutes to make. This salad is perfect to pack for work or a picnic this summer. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad (adapted from Martha Stewart recipe)
Ingredients:
1/4 cup canned chickpeas
1/4 cup quartered cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup quartered cucumber 
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon salt
Ground pepper

Directions:
Rinse and drain the chickpeas. In a bowl combine the chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt and pepper.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

xoxo

PS

Monday, June 9, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: Catfish & Caviar

Today I'm excited to feature Drew from Catfish & Caviar as part of my "What I'm Reading Now" series. Drew started Catfish & Caviar as a remembrance of her late grandmother who had a taste for the finer things in life, strong business ethics and heartwarming tales of travel and adventure. I love Drew's sense of fashion, inspirational posts, and tasty healthy recipes.

Get to know Drew:

1. What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading a book called "The Seat of the Soul." I heard it on Oprah's radio station and in the matter of a week I am almost finished! That's a record for me.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
This is a tough one since I love to eat out AND cook. My favorite restaurant and one I frequent often is Bistro Zinc. I love the atmosphere and their French onion soup.

My favorite recipe would have to be maple glazed brussels sprouts with pancetta! My mouth starts watering just thinking about it.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
Having an outlet for all my thoughts and passions. I work a full-time corporate job so when I get home it's kind of like a de-stresser for me (when I have time). I also love being able to meet new faces!

4. Five things on your wish list?
  1. A vacation somewhere tropical
  2. An everyday tote like this Tom Ford one
  3. A bigger closet
  4. More simple gold jewelry from Gorjana-Griffin
  5. This throw from Jayson Home for the living room
5. Favorite quote?
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are." E.E. Cummings

xoxo

PS

Friday, June 6, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


Party Favors:
I love this #gratefulfor30 experiment by Jess Lively
Wise words from Shauna Niequist
30 signs you follow too many fashion bloggers (guilty)
A fun idea to use a cake stand for your perfume bottles
These commuting doodles are hilarious

Also...
Join the gals of goldplaited tonight in celebrating Mal's birthday!
Head over to Lincoln Park Zoo for an Adults Night Out tonight
A homemade ice cream donut sandwich is the perfect weekend treat at Firecakes
I'm looking forward to the return of Suits on June 11 (obsessed)

xoxo

PS 

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Fab 5: Swimsuit Questions with Kendall Farr of Glamour #GetawayTour

Swimsuit season has finally arrived! Last weekend the Lands' End Getaway Tour arrived in Chicago to give women the ultimate swimsuit experience with the latest trends and the perfect fit. Lands' End was on hand with fit experts and style advice from Kendall Farr (stylist, best-selling author and Glambassador for Glamour Magazine). I was thrilled to speak with Kendall about the hottest swimsuit trends and how to find the perfect fitting suit for summer.


1. What's your favorite swimsuit trend for summer?
Kendall's favorite swimsuit trend for summer is the sporty "Surf" trend with pieces that include colorblocking and sports details. The Swim Tees from Lands' End are the perfect piece to incorporate this trend in or out of the water paired with white jeans.


2. What are some of your tips for finding the perfect swimsuit?
Fit is key when it comes to finding the perfect swimsuit. The experts at Lands' End measure in four strategic places to ensure that you have the ideal swimsuit for your body type. Once you determine the best suit based on fit you can focus on the type of swimsuit trend, color etc. Check out this helpful tip sheet for taking measurement to find your perfect-fitting swimsuit.


3. What are some of your favorite beach accessories? 
A pareo is a great cover-up paired with a pair of aviator sunglasses. The Land's End Swim Tees are also great for a "Beach to Brunch" look when paired with jeans and sandals. 

4. What are the top 4 swimsuit trends this season?
The Glamour fashion team loves the Bohemian, Old Hollywood, Architectural, and Surf trends this season. The Bohemian trend is perfect for mixing & matching pieces and incorporating the tropical and floral prints. For an Old Hollywood look try a high-waisted bottom and a polka dot print for a fun retro look. Try a one-shoulder swimsuit or geometric prints for an Architectural look and a Swim Tee or pops of neon to get the Surf look.


5. What's your favorite swimsuit from Lands' End?
The Bella Flora swimsuit is one of Kendall's favorites from Lands' End because it tends to look great on just about everyone. This swimsuit gives women a flattering fit and Old Hollywood feel.

Photo Credit: Land's End

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Weekly Pick: Cheers to 52Eighty

When you live in Chicago you learn to truly cherish summer days spent at the beach, dining alfresco or taking in the views from an outdoor rooftop bar. What could be better than a great view of the city on a warm summer night with a fabulous cocktail? Well if you looking for the newest and highest rooftop bar in the city look no further than the 52Eighty Lounge. I recently attended their grand opening party with a few of my favorite bloggers to sip champagne and enjoy the gorgeous views which were perfect for a photo shoot.


Megan from Stylish & Scatterbrained/ Christine from View From 5 ft. 2/ Jess from The Golden Girl/ Jill from Hot Pink Style/ Maya from Charmingly Styled


How amazing is this view?

 
Dress: Topshop/ Clutch: Gap/ Jewelry: Vintage/ Heels: Target/ Nail Polish: Zoya/ Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Photo Credit: Christina Slaton

A huge thank you to Nicole for being such an incredible host, Burberry Michigan Ave. & William for the amazing makeup, the talented Christina Slaton for the great photos and of course 52Eighty Lounge for the invitation to this fun event.

xoxo

PS
 
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