Thursday, July 31, 2014

Fab 5: Travel Must-Haves

Next week I'll be packing for a week in Northern Michigan (can.not.wait) and already planning my must-have list. From earbuds to a minimergency kit here are five items I'm keeping on my radar for traveling.
Project Soiree - Travel Essentials
1. For a quick weekend getaway this Herschel Supply Co. duffle bag is the perfect size to pack a few key pieces
2. Relax with some music or a catch up on your favorite reality shows while traveling using these Jonathan Adler earbuds
3. You never know what can happen on the road so this Pinch Provisions minimergency kit is a must-have 
 4. Flight 001 Let's Get Lost pouch is handy for storing little essentials that won't get lost
5. Hair ties are always a necessity and these cute Bop Basics ties are super chic

xoxo

PS

 Project Soiree occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. All opinions are 100% my own.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Weekly Pick: Gladiator Style

I'm channeling my inner gladiator with these knee high sandals today for an edgy yet chic look. You might be thinking these sandals are a little extreme, but styled with the right pieces they give this drop waist dress a fun twist from the ordinary pair of heels. The key is to keep accessories minimal which makes the gladiators the focal point and "statement" piece of the outfit.

Project Soiree - Gladiator Sandals - Drop Waist Dress - Fashion Blogger
Project Soiree - Gladiator Sandals - Drop Waist Dress - Fashion Blogger
Project Soiree - Gladiator Sandals - Drop Waist Dress - Fashion Blogger
Project Soiree - Gladiator Sandals - Drop Waist Dress - Fashion Blogger
Project Soiree - Gladiator Sandals - Drop Waist Dress - Fashion Blogger
Dress: H&M (similar)/ Sandals: GoJane (similar)/ Sunglasses: Akira (similar)/ Bag: Old/ Jewelry: Vintage

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well.

xoxo

PS

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Packing House

Randolph Street in Chicago (aka restaurant row) is packed with amazing restaurants including a new favorite Packing House. Executive Chef Amanda Barnes features bisto-style dishes that are modern American with Mediterranean influence. The atmosphere of the dining room is modern yet elegant and the indoor/outdoor patio is ideal for alfresco summer dining.
Packing House - Chicago - Logo
We started the night with a glass of Rosé and their homemade pickles. Even though I'm not a huge pickle fan I adore homemade pickles that taste fresh paired with seasonal vegetables. These pickles were perfect to share and a refreshing start to the meal.

Packing House - Chicago - Rose Wine - Homemade Pickles

Next we devoured the Ahi Tuna with Kohlrabi salsa verde. I'm slightly obsessed with Ahi Tuna so I knew I would love this dish. The tuna was extremely fresh and the salsa verde paired well with the mild fish.

Packing House - Chicago - Ahi Tuna

Since my friend and I absolutely love scallops we had to order the scallop ceviche. Not only was the presentation amazing (so cool) but the scallops were fresh and delicious paired with a tangerine oil.

Packing House - Chicago - Scallop Ceviche

Our favorite dish of the night was the roasted corn with peppers and goat cheese. The grilled corn had an amazing smoky flavor and the slight tang from the goat cheese was perfect. I'm dying to try and recreate this dish at home!

Packing House - Chicago - Roasted Corn

The crab spaghettini was also a highlight of the night with preserved lemon, Parmesan, sambal chili, and chives. I mean who doesn't love crab and spaghetti paired together?

Packing House - Chicago - Crab Speghettini

We ended the evening with an affogato, which is an espresso poured over vanilla ice cream or gelato. The vanilla ice cream also had sea salt and olive oil and was absolutely amazing with the espresso.

Packing House - Affogato - Chicago

Packing House is the perfect destination for a great meal and drinks with friends in the West Loop. And don't miss out on these gorgeous views of the city from their rooftop!

Packing House - Chicago - Rooftop

Packing House
1113 W Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60607

xoxo

PS

 Project Soiree occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. All opinions are 100% my own.

Monday, July 28, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: Pleasantly Petite

Today I'm featuring Katie and Brittani from Pleasantly Petite as part of my "What I'm Reading Now" series. Katie and Brittani have been friends for eighteen years (so amazing!) growing up in the same suburban neighborhood of Illinois and attending the University of  Arizona together. These busy girls both currently live and work in Chicago and are the co-bloggers behind the fashion & lifestyle blog Pleasantly Petite that features their amazing personal styles. For a dose of fashion and beauty tricks check out Pleasantly Petite!


Get to know Katie & Brittani:

1. What are you currently reading?
Katie: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I have to say I had no idea about this book until I saw a trailer for the movie that is set to come out sometime in October (starring Ben Afleck so we know it'll be good). There are rumors that the movie will have an alternate ending so I wanted to read the book to compare the two myself, plus I'm a huge sucker for romance thrillers.

Brittani: #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso. I had seen a ton of people posting Instagrams of this book and when I realized the CEO of Nasty Gal was the one who wrote it I was intrigued. I wanted to see how this woman got to where she is today. What I've learned about her so far is not what I was expecting at all, but I'm loving it so far!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
This is a tough one, since us girls love to eat! However, we'd have to say that we eat out more than we cook, which is a curse/blessing of living in a big city that gives us endless options. One of our favorite restaurants since its beginning has been RPM. We love how it's a chic take on modern Italian, while still incorporating family style. If you're ever in their lounge or bar, order a G-rizzle, it's our go-to and with this drink Giuliana Rancic proves she doesn't just know fashion.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
We would have to say it's having a creative outlet and the freedom to put out unique content. We both work/are in law school 5 days a week and having a blog where you can let loose creatively is an awesome sense of relief from everyday life. We also love that it helps people, it's the best feeling to know that we encourage people to go out there and try something new or inspire them to be more confident.

4. Five things on your wish list?
Katie:
  1. A versatile trench coat for fall
  2. A solid pair of red stilettos
  3. New tires for my car #postchicagowinterprobz
  4. To have more time with my two nieces, we're headed to the Lincoln Park Zoo next week
  5. This statement jacket with floral embroidery from ASOS, to die for 
Brittani:
  1. Sophia Webster high heels. I was recently introduced to her shoes and instantly fell in love!
  2. To spend more time with my boyfriend who currently lives in New York
  3. A blue or red leather jacket
  4. A month long trip around Europe. I've been dying to get to Italy, Paris, London and Switzerland (and I'll get there one day)
  5. Fringed booties, preferably heels #shortgirlprobs
5. Favorite quote?
"A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it, it just blooms"

xoxo

PS

Friday, July 25, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


1. Did you see the new movie trailer for Fifty Shades of Grey? OMG
2. As someone who absolutely loves Instagram this made me laugh
3. I've been looking for a new dress for work and this colorblock panel shift dress on GILT is perfection
4. Lux & Concord shows you how to create the perfect ponytail 
 5. Charmingly Styled has 5 amazing low calorie drinks for summer (cheers!)
6. 73 questions with Blake Lively - the best
7. Have you tried Completely Bare? It's my latest beauty obsession
8. I'm definitely trying this trick to restore Champagne bubbles

Also...
Don't miss the Simply Stylist conference tomorrow!
Enjoy a movie on the roof at ROOF at the Wit on Monday, July 28

xoxo

PS 

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Fab 5: Lollapalooza Accessories from Shopbop

With Lollapalooza next weekend I'm planning my outfit with fun and stylish accessories from Shopbop because let's be honest it's all about the accessories. Adding a fun scarf, bright sunglasses and a statement bag to your music festival outfit is key to being fashion forward.
Shopbop - Lollapalooza - Accessories 
1. These punk-inspired Joomi Lim earrings are the perfect accessory to rock out at Lolla
 2. Sunglasses are a must-have item to complete your outfit and shield your eyes from the sun while watching your favorite artists. Follow the round lens trend with these Sunday Somewhere sunglasses in a fun pink color. 
3. Add a colorful scarf like this Diane von Furstenberg option with pom-pom details for a boho chic look. 
4. A cross body bag is a music festival essential and this Christopher Kon bag with fringe details is a fashionable choice for Lollapalooza
5. You can't go wrong with a stylish fedora and this Eugenia Kim option makes quite a statement


xoxo

PS

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Weekly Pick: On The Fringe

While some (aka my family) thought I dug up a former flapper Halloween costume from my closet I intentionally bought this fringe dress from H&M. If you didn't already know fringe is a hot trend for summer festivals (a perfect choice for Lollapalooza next weekend) but also a key piece this fall. From tasseled hemlines on dresses, details on bags and shoes or even jackets this boho trend is here to stay.

Dress: H&M (similar)/ Jacket: Urban Outfitters (similar)/ Sandals: Birkenstock/ Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well.

xoxo

PS

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Baked Feta + Beso Del Sol Sangria

With temps in the 90's today you're going to love a refreshing glass of chilled sangria at the end of the day. Beso Del Sol Sangria is imported from Spain with Tempranillo wine and blended with 100% natural citrus and fruit juices which make this the perfect summer drink. The bag-in-box concept is ideal for picnics in the park or an afternoon at the pool with friends.

Baked Feta - Tasty Tuesday - Beso Del Sol Sangria

I paired the sweet sangria with a baked feta recipe for a delicious summer appetizer. The warm feta with olives and tomatoes was a fresh and easy recipe that paired perfectly with a chilled glass of Beso Del Sol Sangria.

Baked Feta (adapted from A Couple Cooks)

Ingredients: 
8-10 cherry tomatoes
4-5oz block of feta cheese
8-10 Kalamata olives
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
salt & pepper

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add a few pinches of salt. Place the feta in a small oven-proof dish and top with tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with oregano. Bake for 15-20 minutes until soft. Serve immediately with crackers, pita, or fresh bread.

Baked Feta - Tasty Tuesday - Beso Del Sol Sangria

You can find Beso Del Sol Sangria at Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Markets in the Chicago area.

Disclaimer: I received a gift card to purchase Beso Del Sol Sangria at no cost to me, but all opinions are my own.

xoxo

PS

Monday, July 21, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: The Style Letters

Today I'm excited to introduce you to Maria from the style letters! By day Maria works in marketing and product development as an art coordinator for a greeting card company. By night she's the founder and editor of one of my favorite Chicago style blogs the style letters that focuses on the people, places and things that inspires Maria's style every day. For a daily dose of fashion and inspiration check out the style letters!


Get to know Maria:

1. What are you currently reading?
Besides catching up on July issues of fashion magazines, I have Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch next on my list.

2.  Favorite recipe or restaurant?
Favorite recipe: Eggplant Parmesan
Favorite restaurant: In Chicago, it changes by the week, but Girl and the Goat is a strong contender!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
Writing about personal style and meeting so many amazing people along the way.

4. Five things on your wish list?
  1. Travel to Greece, Sweden, and Australia
  2. Write a book
  3. Own a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps (color yet to be determined)
  4. Master the perfect beach wave on my own
  5. Take a staycation in Chicago and spend the week as a tourist in my own city
5. Favorite quote?
This one by Coco Chanel: "A girl should be two things: who and what she wants." I love the idea of staying true to who you are, but allowing yourself to grow into something even better.

xoxo

PS

Friday, July 18, 2014

Happy Friday + Links


1. Jonathan Adler is having a huge online warehouse sale and with items up to 70% off act fast and get shopping! (I'm in love with this clutch)
2. The COOLEST cooler is a must-have for the beach with a USB charger, blender and removable Bluetooth speaker...yes please!
3. This 4-year-old's quest to become a flower girl is adorable
4.  Get your tissues ready because this story of a dog's last day on earth is a tearjerker
5. My good friend Erin (from Color Me Styled and Erin Marie Bassett) recently launched her ebook store! These ebooks are a great resource for bloggers with helpful tips and tricks to take your blog to the next level. The best part is Erin is offering Project Soiree readers a discount on her ebooks with  $5.00 off your ebook purchase with the code "PRJSOR5" (limit one use per customer).
6. The 7 most common ways to screw up your chocolate chip cookies #lifechanging
7. What do you think...can "Entrepreneur Barbie" change girls' career ambitions?
8. Would you wear a belt bag? This Tory Burch option might be perfect for Lollapalooza

Also...
Head to Navy Pier on Saturday to see "The Mac" race to Mackinac while sipping Veuve
 Take a stroll down Armitage this weekend and do a little shopping at the Lincoln Park Sidewalk Sale
Stop by Heritage Bicycles on Sunday for a Vo Jewelry Pop-Up Shop!
 Celebrate #RealBloggerBeauty at Ranalli's on Monday, July 21
 I'm all about #YESWAYROSE with Monica from Caravan of Style and Arin from Heart of Chic on Wednesday, July 22 at 52Eighty

xoxo

PS

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Fab 5: Summer Reading List

1. I was gifted the book I Love Your Style from a friend who obviously knows my love for personal style. This book delivers style secrets and navigates from the standard basics of fashion to the hottest trends. 

2.  The Opposite of Loneliness grabbed my attention when I read an excellent review in a magazine. With a collection of inspirational essays from Yale graduate Marina Keegan this book is sure to be a great read.
 
3. After recently reading #GIRLBOSS I was inspired to also add Lean In to my reading list (PS if you haven't read #GIRLBOSS move it to the top of your reading list)

4.The Vacationers has been on the hot list this summer as the "must read" beach book. I can't wait to dive into this novel while on vacation next month.

5. After hearing so many great reviews on The Goldfinch I figured it was time to dive in. With 784 pages I'm sure this book will keep me occupied at the pool this summer.

xoxo

PS

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Weekly Pick: Let's Take A Walk

There's nothing better than a casual walk (or in my case a crop top, statement blazer and heels) with my sister and her dog Leland when I'm back in Michigan. It's like the saying goes "you can take the girl out of the city, but you can't take the city out of the girl." I'll always be a city girl at heart, but seriously how can I resist a charming walk in a small town with an adorable dog and my amazing sister?

Project Soiree - Stripe Blazer - Crop Top - Bow Heels
Project Soiree - Fashion - Blazer - Round Sunglasses
Project Soiree - Fashion - Crop Top - Blazer - Round SunglassesProject Soiree - Fashion - Crop Top - Blazer - Round Sunglasses
Project Soiree - Fashion - Blazer - Crop Top - Round Sunglasses
Blazer: Anthropologie (similar)/ Crop Top: Urban Outfitters (similar)/ Jeans: Gap / Heels: Old (similar)/ Necklace: Akira/ Sunglasses: Akira (similar)

Photo Credit: Save Big. Eat Well. 

xoxo

PS

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Tasty Tuesday: Pierrot Gourmet

If you didn't get a chance to celebrate Bastille Day yesterday you're in luck because Pierrot Gourmet at The Peninsula Chicago is celebrating Bastille Day with a special menu until August 14. With a menu that includes favorite French delicacies and French beverages you can enjoy an enchanting evening escape to France right here in Chicago.
Pierrot Gourmet Logo
Pierrot Gourtmet - Bastille Day - Wine

Start your evening with the Charcuterie Plate that includes French ham & salami, smoked duck, country pate, pommery mustard, cornichons and baguette. This is the perfect plate to share and enjoy with a glass of French wine. Cheers!

Pierrot Gourtmet - Bastille Day

For your next course I recommend the famous French Salad Lyonnaise with poached egg, frisee, lardons, and a champagne vinaigrette. The creamy poached egg is the perfect compliment to the bitter frisee and tangy champagne vinaigrette.

Pierrot Gourtmet - Salad Lyonnaise - Bastille Day

Although I'm a pescatarian the Short Rib Bourguignon with cipollini, confit potatoes and carrots was a highlight of the evening. I loved the Bouchot Mussels with pernod, fennel, fine herbs and country bread. The mussels were extremely fresh and the country bread was perfect for dipping in the delicious broth.

Pierrot Gourtmet - Short Rib - Bastille Day

To conclude your escape to France enjoy one (or two) of these sweet treats. The Mousse Chocolat Facon Grand-Mere was my absolute favorite with dark chocolate mousse and vanilla bean ice cream. The Tarte Tatin with caramelized apple tart, puff pastry and creme fraiche or the Flan Parisien with cooked custard tart and caramel sauce are also quite amazing and the best way to end your French meal.

Pierrot Gourtmet - Desserts - Bastille Day

Pierrot Gourmet
108 E Superior St.
Chicago, IL 60611

xoxo

PS

Monday, July 14, 2014

What I'm Reading Now: 26 & Not Counting

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Jess behind the blog 26 & Not Counting today! Jess is a 26-year-old living in Kansas City where she works as a full-time Marketing Coordinator. Her blog 26 & Not Counting is a creative getaway that started with a list of 27 things she wanted to accomplish before her 27th birthday (such a fun idea!). Today Jess is celebrating the one year blogaversary of 26 & Not Counting so head on over and wish her congrats and enter her awesome giveaway. Congrats Jess! 
26 & Not Counting - Logo

26 & Not Counting

Get to know Jess:

1. What are you currently reading?
#GIRLBOSS. I know, I know, who isn't?! I'm a sucker for the stories of young entrepreneurs who aren't afraid to chase their dreams and tell it like it is. Also, I never miss an issue of Self Magazine, their workouts are killer.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
I don't do much cooking. I could blame it on our teeny tiny apartment kitchen or the general lack of utensils, but honestly, I just love eating out. One of my favorite places to dine is McCoy's in Westport. Their beer pretzels are to die for and don't even get me started on their warm chocolate chip cookies, served up with a frosty mug of milk. Oh and their Raspberry Wheat Beer (brewed in house!) tastes amazing when sitting on the patio on a sunshine-filled day. Are your mouths watering yet?

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
I would have to say the creative freedom it gives me, hands down. I work full-time as a Marketing Coordinator, but blogging is like a mini escape where there are no rules and I'm free to write, share, and do as I please.

4. Five things on your wish list?
At any given moment you can expect my wish list to be about a mile long. Right now it's about 3 miles long, but I'll keep it short and sweet:
  1. I'm in desperate need of a wallet. I don't actually have one right now and let me tell ya, it's a nightmare when I get up to the cash register. Just ask my boyfriend, Pete. This Kate Spade number caught my eye - I'll take it in coral, please!
  2. More vacation time at work. It seems to be dwindling fast, but I'm looking forward to a fun getaway in mid-September.
  3. That Sonic would bring back their cheesy pretzel dog (aka one of the best things that has ever happened to my palate)
  4. A new hat to shield my skin from the hot summer sun. My fedora took a swim in the lake over the holiday weekend and that was the end of it. What's your favorite style? I'm lookin' to spice things up!
  5. For you to come say "hi" over at 26 and Not Counting. We may or may not be celebrating something special!
5. Favorite quote?
"It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things." -Leonardo da Vinci

xoxo

PS

Friday, July 11, 2014

Happy Friday + Links

Shauna Niequist - Quote
Party Favors - Links - Project Soiree

1. How about giving your wallet a little break this summer? Here are 121 things to do instead of spending money (POPSUGAR)
2. Mark your calendars because Blake Lively is launching her lifestyle site on July 23 - can't wait! (Page Six)
3. Erin from Color Me Styled has a yummy summer recipe for simple prep fish tacos (Color Me Styled)
4. Stephanie Sterjovski did a collab with Pottery Barn and I want each print in my apartment (Stephanie Sterjovski)
5. If you love booze you need these products - don't be surprised if you see #17 at my pool (Buzzfeed)
6. How adorable are these edible typography macarons? (The Proper Pinwheel)
7. There's nothing like a cold beer on a warm day in Chicago - Cheers! (Etsy)
8. This tee from TEXTILE Elizabeth and James is perfect for watching the final World Cup game (Shopbop)

Also...
I hope to see you at 52Eighty next week for a cocktail party with WhatRUWearing and Windy City Epicurean!

xoxo

PS

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Fab 5: Chicago's July Check List

1. Get a taste of Taste of Chicago
Taste of Chicago is a summer must with amazing food and great performances in Grant Park. Check out the schedule for a full list of daily events and performances and be prepared to eat some delicious bites.


2.  Enjoy skyline views + cocktails with WhatRUWearing & Windy City Epicurean
Head over to the hottest rooftop in Chicago - 52Eighty - for a night of skyline views and "his & hers" cocktails on Tuesday, July 15 #5280DressedUp.


3. Cheers to Bastille Day at RM Champagne
Celebrate Bastille Day at RM Champagne with $1 oysters and $8 bubbles. Cheers!


4. #YESWAYROSE with Caravan of Style and Heart of Chic at 52Eighty
Get Lollapalooza ready with Monica of Caravan of Style and Arin of Heart of Chic at 52Eighty on July 23. You'll also receive complimentary floral shades with any stemmed flute from the rose' garden #YESWAYROSE. 


5. Check out the Wells Street Block Bash
Discover the hidden gems of Old Town at the Wells Street Block Bash this Saturday, July 12 from 10AM-2PM. 


xoxo

PS
 
Blogging tips