sunny inspiration...

Photo via Pinterest [The Glitter Guide]. Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Image by In Good Taste [Laura Boyd]

 

Beachy-chic Bardot + a little Emerson wisdom equals summertime perfection.

animal instinct.

Animal prints are nothing new - for years, they have famously made statements throughout fashion and home decor.  Often perceived as "trendy" and sometimes even tacky, when done right they exude a richly glamorous, yet fun, graphic style. The zebra print, with its classic black + white color scheme, is the perfect print to add some pop to almost any home [use instead of a bold b+w stripe to add a little more luxe to your look].

Here are a few photos that convey the versatility of this bold print - whether its an over-the-top glam accent to an already rich space, or a colorful version that exudes a graphic, preppy sensibility, the zebra print done right is perfectly divine. 

 Bold, Neo-Trad look from Elle Decor

Jonathan Adler via Elle Decor

Modern glamour from Domino [Elle Decor]

 Stark white with a contrasting focal point from Elle Decor

 Tradtional with a pop of print from Elle Decor

Rich + chic with clean lines via Decor Pad

Monique Lhuillier's stunning Living Room from Elle Decor

Graphic, turquoise prints from Elle Decor

 Dark hues make for a traditional, yet bold look from Elle Decor

mix the glitz.

Most who know me are aware of how much I love over-the-top, borderline gaudy jewelry [the bigger the better].  And just when you think that one piece is a bit much, I will most likely pile it on top of another equally audacious choice.  Hence, my firm belief in taking risks and adding just enough to make a unique statement that exudes a confident sense of personal style while also adding a bit of whimsy to your wardrobe.  I tend to buy more accessories and jewelry than clothes - and not just because I have an unhealthy obsession; moreso, because I believe you can instantly update and glamourize any outfit [be it a simple black cocktail dress or even a basic Gap tee] with a fabulous piece of costume jewelry...here are a few examples of what I mean:

Add a little glam to that nautical tee with some outrageously mixed jewels.

Image via The Glitter Guide

Don't be afraid to keep stacking!

via Pinterest [Plum Sugar Pretty Loungerie]

Mix textures, stones and metals for an elegantly
disheveled and effortless look.

Image via The Glitter Guide

J.Crew really popularized this look and made it approachable, so I always keep an eye out for their newest creations. They have amazing pieces that are affordable and classic, but vintage-inspired and always a bit dramatic.  Here are some great pieces that are perfect for laying, but also statement pieces on their own...



All images courtesy of J.Crew.com

I just purchased this piece which is perfect for layering since it lays flat. Try laying other flat, jeweled pieces on top or even short, chunkier layers of pearls for a bold, "piled on" statement.  This necklace is great because the little rhinestone-encrusted bars will peak out of just about anything you choose for a little glimpse of sparkle!

The newest addition to my collection from J.Crew

I came across this gold bamboo and rhinestone necklace from Kate Spade that I think would be so classic intertwined with an equal-lengthed set of pearls [just twist the two around each other and clasp for a traditional look with a unique edge].  That would seriously be a go-to everyday necklace for me...love.

Kate Spade Bamboozled Graduated Necklace



happy weekending (especially to all the moms!)

Happy Friday!  And a very Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful moms out there. Love this mother/daughter shot of Gwyneth and her gorgeous mother, Blythe...

via Cue the Artist

Who ran to help me when I fell,
And would some pretty story tell,
Or kiss the place to make it well?
My mother.

-Ann Taylor

cinco de chic.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!  Shake things up for this festive, feel-good holiday with a twist on a few traditional favorites.  I would love to be lounging poolside right now [musing on the motto below], sipping one of these delightfully pink, prickly pear concoctions with this gorgeous dish in hand...what do you think?

via Enjoy Yourself

via Pinterest: Christine Martinez.

Prickly Pear Margarita

Image and recipe via My Sweet & Saucy

Bobby Flay's Fish Tacos

Image and recipe courtesy of Food Network [Bobby Flay]



fancy pants.

I've always been a big fan of shorts [just short enough, tailored, and with a bright pop of color or fun print], but I'm completely gushing over these gems [with a little romper thrown in for good measure]...

J.Crew Gala Short

J.Crew Duchesse Ruffle Short

J.Crew Casbah Romper

Phillip Lim Satin Shorts

ASOS Double Belt Pleat Front Shorts



marvelous may.

Happy May [a bit belated]! All the colorful May baskets and sunshine have me just itching for summer. Stay tuned for some fun, warm weather posts to brighten up the week...in the meantime, throw on some bright lipstick and grab those fabulous sunnies...summer is just around the bend!

Image via Shop Nasty Gal

An affair to remember...

After a history-making occasion [and early one at that!], I think it's safe to say that Princess Catherine nailed it.  Her natural poise paired with her classic, yet updated Alexander McQueen gown made for a memorable fashion moment, indeed. And I couldn't help but notice the striking resemblance in both manner and dress to fellow Royal bride and fashion icon, Grace Kelly.

And for the evening gown....

Image courtesy of USWeekly.com

On a side note, I cannot end this post without acknowledging the Beckhams - beyond fierce in terms of their styling for the grand occasion.  David completely pulled off a more modern interpretation of the morning suit in this dapper Ralph Lauren creation, while Victoria epitomized Royal wedding glamour in her own sleek navy design and a matching Philip Treacy topper [while almost 7 months pregnant!]...



Congratulations to the new Duke + Duchess of Cambridge! 

What a smashing young couple...

William + Catherine

04.29.2011

London calling...

With all of this wedding hype, I just had to post this image that combines two amazing symbols from my favorite city - the graphic Union Jack + the one-and-only Kate Moss. Her chic, yet edgy style is impeccable and just excudes, "cool."  So London...

Image via Jeans, Fashion + StreetStyle.



Once Upon A....Royal Wedding Viewing Party!

Set that alarm Ladies in Waiting!  It's almost time for the much anticipated Royal nuptuals of Miss Catherine Middleton and Prince William, set to air live on April 29th at 6:00 AM EST.  And to get you in the spirit (not that it's possible to get anymore excited), I have a Royal Wedding Viewing Party that will have your guests ready to rise and shine for a seriously chic get-together to view all the glitz and glam that is sure to ensue at Westminster Abbey...

Royal Attire: Glamorous Pajamas [what else?!]
Note: It's a Royal wedding - feel free to go a little over-the-top!

Due to the not-so-convenient time difference, I think its completely acceptable to throw a pajama party for this history-making occasion. No need to sacrifice style - pick out a new pair of glam pajamas (fit for public, of course) and lounge in luxury as you watch Miss Middleton walk that runway of an aisle...

1920's Marabou Robe. Pink Marabou Slippers. Burberry Silk Satin Robe. Sabbadini Lovely Diamond Rose Earrings.

Jenny Packham Robe. TopShop Versus Jewel Pumps. Collage created by In Good Taste.

English Accessory: The Fascinator

In a nod to our fashion-forward friends across the pond, adorn your head with something fabulous to celebrate the special occasion.  Try making your own fascinator or order one from a few of the great shops below (Etsy also has great vendors).  This Brit-inspired accessory is too gorgeous not to be an American staple..

Top Left  + Bottom Right: BHLDN. Top Right + Bottom Left: Lo Boheme. Collage created by In Good Taste.

The Menu:  Traditional English Breakfast [Madeover]

Treat your friends to a stylish English brunch full of champagne cocktails, refreshing Pimm's cup and traditional British favorites. Keeping things simple with a little sophistication is the perfect combo for an early morning event that is honoring such a high-end occasion.  The key is making things ahead [noted below] in order to eliminate a 'crack-of-dawn' panic attack. Making a frittata is a great way to prepare a brunch main dish without having to slave at the store. Throw the eggs and other ingredients into a pan and pop in the oven...that's it! Puffy, golden deliciousness in less than 30 minutes. Cut into small wedges or squares and its the perfect breakfast dish without the fuss (and easy for guests to eat standing). Prepare your other menu items while its bakes. Follow this chic menu with a few tips and your guests will feel like Queens, indeed!

Collage created by In Good Taste.

Menu designed by In Good Taste [Laura Boyd].*

· For the Pimm's, slice all fruits the night before and store in air-tight plastic bags, so all you have to do is throw them in the pitcher and mix everything up before the guests arrive.  You'd be surprised how long this little step to prepare a garnish takes!

· Make the scones the night before as well. Store in air-tight containers or plastic bags. Buy store-bought clotted cream, jams, lemon curd and marmalade to eliminate prep time. Dish into small bowls the night before and store with plastic wrap so all you have to do is remove from the fridge and serve!

· Make the lemon-lavender syrup the night before. Slice the strawberries and cover with plastic wrap that night as well. Store in the fridge and mix with the syrup just before serving. Again, slicing  takes more time than you think!

· If you don't have time to make your own cookies (and totally not necessary since they are really just an accessory to the coffee and tea), go ahead and buy store bought shortbreads and tea cookies (Walkers are classic and a great alternative to homemade). Chances are most guests will be full off of the main menu items anyway.

· Be sure to cook the potatoes for the fritatta the night before as well. Reheat before using in fritatta.

 *All recipes and photo credits are listed within the 'Bites' tab.  Enjoy! xx