swankheights

tweed and silk

2012-01-29T13:17:00.000-08:00

(gap blouse + oscar de la renta scarf + h&m shorts + topshop boots + clutch c/o langford market)

A silk scarf adds an updated twist to my long-term obsession with button ups and bows. How do you update your staple looks? Please share!

refinery 29 x armani exchange video!

2012-01-26T15:43:00.000-08:00

Here is the video from the Refinery 29 x Armani Exchange Ultimate Night Out! The masterminds from Spreadhouse produced a perfect recap of the evening and turned out to be the best companions (and eye candy) for the night. Thank you Refinery29 (especially Julia) for the adventure and the sweetest write-up. #HAPPYFACE

snapshots 01.25.12

2012-01-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

The charcuterie board at Patois (6078 Laurel Street) is one of my favorites in the New Orleans. How adorable is the pig shaped board?

Housemade boudin, headcheese, and pork rillette (oh my) sure makes for the happiest belly!

Ordered one of my photographs on canvas from Easy Canvas Prints for my dear friends who welcomed a beautiful, bouncing baby girl. It added the perfect, personalized touch to their gift basket!

Welcome to the Nash.

The wonderland that is Nashville Farmers Market, open 365 days a year. Oh the gallivanting we will do.

There are few things that make me happier than fresh, colorful produce.

Prettiest green onions, evs. I'm a simple girl.

from the nola to the nash

2012-01-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

(burberry parka + j.crew sweater + zara blouse and pants + mango heels + chanel wallet + target hat)

Hello, Nashville! I've finally gotten situated in a charming neighborhood right outside of downtown. This park is literally my backyard and is conveniently home to a massive farmers market (wahoo). Can't wait to share my adventures with you all!

Follow my instagram (juleytl) for weekly tidbits. :)

cowbell

2012-01-12T00:18:00.000-08:00

I was never a big burger loving girl but since a slew of new burger restaurants have popped up, each serving all natural, farm raised beef burgers, I just had to get in on the know. Plus, every burger comes with the best food group ever invented - fries - so to me it's a win win situation. A few weeks ago I went to Cowbell (8801 Oak Street) where you can expect a comfortable farmhouse-inspired, relax atmosphere with waitresses donning the cutest aprons. Be sure to eat your fries with their signature Agogo sauce and beware of the $1 million corkage fee!

nye recap with whiskey blue

2012-01-11T22:28:00.000-08:00

Despite having to drop by a few parties during NYE and shuffling through insane traffic, the king and I made it right on time to Whiskey Blue at The W Hotel for our midnight kiss. You know what they say, the people you spend New Year's with will be the people you spend the rest of the year with. Here's hoping!

when the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie

2012-01-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

(zara top and pants + forever 21 shoes (old) + boutique 1522 necklace + random bangles + clutch c/o langford market)

For Christmas, the king and I treated ourselves to a trip on an authentic Venetian gondola ride in beautiful City Park, which proved to be one of the most romantic things you can do in this city. #happyface

happiest new year!

2012-01-01T08:15:00.000-08:00

(asos dress + leather jacket & clutch c/o armani exchange + steve madden shoes)

I am beyond grateful for the amazing memories and relationships that have stemmed from this blog. Thank you all for reading and supporting Swank Heights for the past three years! Now that 2011 is behind, I'm excited to finally share with you all that I'll be relocating to Nashville, TN for a new job. And, of course, taking my blog with me! It's bittersweet having to leave my beloved city, but you can still expect plenty of New Orleans posts as I'll be visiting very, very often. I hope you'll join me as I explore another Southern gem and figure out where the wind takes me from there.

Happy 2012 to you and your loved ones. May this year be a fruitful one for all of us!

xx, Juley

concrete jungle where dreams are made of

2011-12-29T17:35:00.000-08:00

Favorite snaps from New York: breakfast in bed at 60 Thompson, first addictive taste of Laduree macaroons, grocery trips to Eataly, and a shopping latte from Balthazar.

twelve nineteen eleven

2011-12-25T17:33:00.000-08:00

(burberry parka + haus 131 blouse + dress c/o armani exchange + american eagle fur collar + alexander wang boots + prada bag + sunglasses via ebay)

Love this Alaia-ish dress from AX. It proved perfect for a day of shopping in SoHo.
Happy Holidays to you and your family!

ultimate night out new york

2011-12-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was a whirlwind, amazing weekend thanks to many of you who voted for me in Refinery29's Ultimate Going Out Contest. I was floored when I got word that the Armani Exchange and Refinery 29 teams picked me to participate in my dream night out in New York City. Not only did I get to hang out at my favorite hotspots, I was able to experience it all with my closest friends in the city!

(I did the biggest blogger no-no and forgot my camera battery so the first night was documented with an iPhone camera. Here are just a few snippets of the first day.)

view from the top

getting did up by the hair + makeup team

weekend goodies

Thank you to the staff at Momofuku Ma Peche for arranging a delicious menu for us! Pictured above is the succulent flank steak and rice fries.

After dinner we were treated to drinks at The Jimmy on the rooftop of The James Hotel. Amazing cocktails with a breathtaking view of the city.

Huge thanks to Julia and Greg from the Refinery 29 team and the Armani Exchange team for being so kind and coordinating a memorable, ultimate night out!

nye 2012 x whiskey blue

2011-12-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

2011 has had its ups and downs but I'm ready to hit the ground running in 2012, beginning with a New Year's countdown at one of my favorite spots Whiskey Blue! Come join the fun.

Purchase tickets HERE

Check out WB's Facebook

the holidays with paris parker

2011-12-21T06:40:00.000-08:00

Just as my little sister was blowing out her sixteen candles, I leaned over her cake and the next thing I saw was my hair in flames! After my family helped pat out the little fire, I was wreaking of burnt hair and my poor ends were long in its afterlife. Luckily, my go-to hair salon Paris Parker invited me and several other local tastemakers in to celebrate the holidays. I told my stylist Miranda St. Pierre - who is amazeeee - what happened and she went right to work beginning with Aveda's signature dry remedy deep conditioning treatment and then finished me up with a cut and a va va voom blowout. After a quick make-up session with Alex, I was feeling like a new woman and ready to take on the night. Thank you to the amazing Paris Parker team - Matt, Andi, and Hailee - for hosting a fabulous night starter and spreading the love to my readers!

For my local readers - receive $20 off your services if you mention 'SwankHeights' when booking your appointment. Wahoo!

stop the world and melt with you

2011-12-13T05:21:00.000-08:00

(gap shirt + bcbg leather pants + zara shoes and scarf + prada bag)

Happily moving along in life with some big girl opportunities so I treated myself to a big girl bag! It's like Prada knew my personality and created the Saffiano in its luscious caramello color just for me.

swankheights x perricone md giveaway

2011-12-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

I've been on a little beauty kick - trying to figure out the best products for my skin and Perricone MD, one of the leading brands for the best under eye wrinkle creams, just so happened to want to give my readers a chance to try out some of their products! I've not personally tried this brand yet, so by entering you are also helping me get some products of my own. The bottles look so official.. I wouldn't mind having these as bathroom decoration.

Be sure to enter to win an extra gift for yourself this holiday season!

(If you need help picking a product, check out this Cold Plasma review.)

life in technicolor

2011-11-28T14:36:00.000-08:00

(target hat and ipad case + forever 21 oxford and pants + gap sweater + vintage boots + old hollister thick knit scarf)

Unless it’s mad, passionate, extraordinary love, it’s a waste of your time. There are too many mediocre things in life; Love shouldn’t be one of them.
(quotebook)

current press and features

2011-11-26T11:01:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to take a post to thank these great publications for featuring my little blog!

iHEARTnola's Perfect 10's list of the top ten most stylish women in New Orleans. (*blushing)
www.iheartnola.com

Voodoo Musical Festival's Ragged Magazine

Frock Candy's featured blogger
www.frockcandyblog.com

Thank you all so much for reading. xx

there's a skeleton on my dress

2011-11-20T10:24:00.000-08:00

(alexander wang dress and boots + zara blazer + vintage clutch + random belt/accessories)

When it's a dear friend's birthday and the crowd is surely going to be dressed to impress, then you have to bring out the Wang.

swankheights x tiny buffalo

2011-11-14T16:05:00.000-08:00

Local t-shirt company Tiny Buffalo (8726 Oak Street) invited me into their shop recently to check out their easy as 1-2-3 t-shirt making process. During my first visit I was able to pick out a design and had the breast cancer shirt (seen here) made within minutes! I was so impressed by the process and instantly knew this is where I'm going to head when I start Christmas shopping for my loved ones. Yep, everyone's getting a t-shirt. Fair warning.

I was pretty ecstatic when owner and creative designer Mando asked me to curate my own shirt. Decided to create an ode to my top ten favorite local eateries! This list certainly doesn't take into account the many other restaurants I love so I'm definitely going to treat myself to another one or two. You can also do the same by sending a list of your favorite New Orleans places (or anything else!) or purchase the one I designed exclusively on their site, www.tinybuffalo.com.

Tiny Buffalo will be open during the much anticipated Oak Street Poboy Fest this Sunday, November 20th so be sure to drop them a visit and I would love to bump into you with a Swank Heights shirt!

berry inspired

2011-11-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

(ann taylor loft skirt + gap shirt + cole haan mary janes + necklace c/o brandy pham + temptress snake ring c/o courtney kaye & quoise + bangles: forever 21, randoms, c/o michele watch, brandy pham, quoise + lipcolor: 'embrace' by cover girl)

atonement

2011-11-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

(jolie+elizabeth 'esplanade' gown + rebecca taylor blazer + fur vest + steve madden platforms + vintage snake bracelet turned belt + random sunnies + 'world's end' earrings c/o jewelmint)

snapshots 11.03.11

2011-11-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

details:

1. gold ring + acrylic office supplies + jeanine's ladybook

2. 'the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do'

3. compassion x brcf x hudson jeans

4. sucre's delicious gourmet chocolates

5. this week's fresh picks

6. world's most adorable nephew

7. tutupalooza: remnants of the ballerina mafia

a night at the factory

2011-11-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

'It's not that I'm rebelling. It's that I'm just trying to find another way.' - Edie Sedgwick

Halloween 2011 x NOLA was all kinds of epic.

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#nolafw favorites

2011-10-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

Varela+Brooks: feminine patterns and pleating

Matthew Arthur: bold colors, subtle styling, fun and comfy

Amanda de Leon: structured shoulders, aquatic inspired color palette, fringe perfection

Ashlie Ming: neon bling!

photo credit: graham blackall, nolafw

gray on gray on gray

2011-10-27T23:41:00.000-07:00

(gap shirt + american apparel bow layered w/ brandy pham necklace + borrowed skirt c/o Jolie & Elizabeth + zara shoes + h&m belt)

What I wore to the last stream of shows from NOLAFW. It was only appropriate to wear one of Jolie & Elizabeth's whimsical designs to their show - the lightweight silk and chiffon combination made me feel like a princess. I paired it with a sheer gray oxford for a monochromatic look, my staple Brandy Pham necklace and Zara heels for extra pizazz. Pictured above are two of my favorite looks from the crowd that night - the quintessential downtown girl in Alexander Wang and uber chic stylist Rachel Adams. (last two pictures c/o Rachel's camera)

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sh + hudson jeans x breast cancer awareness

2011-10-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

Hudson Jeans

(zara jacket + breast cancer awareness tee c/o tiny buffalo + may 5 pocket jeans c/o hudson jeans + prada loafers)

After hearing news of E! News beloved Giuliana Rancic's battle with breast cancer, I think it's pretty evident that no one is immune to this disease even if you're relatively young. My heart drops for every woman who has to fight this battle but I also know that the rest of us can do our part. When Hudson Jeans asked me to join their campaign to build awareness, there was no question I wanted in. For every pair of Hudson Jeans sold during the month of October (only a few days left!) $5 will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. That said -- I've never been more in love with a pair of jeans like the May 5 Pocket Skinny in London! Perfect fit, super comfortable for everyday and the color is perfect for dressier nights.

Visit Hudson Jeans to get yours and contribute to the cause! xoxo

a pop of color

2011-10-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

(asos skirt + elijah top + alexander wang boots + lv epi speedy bag + brandy pham / forever21 bangles + bcbg ring + michele watch + random belt)

What I wore to the Varela + Brooks & Matthew Arthur Apparel Spring '12 runway shows. Obviously obsessed with this skirt and need to retire it!

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nola fashion week + one

2011-10-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last week the New Orleans Fashion Council hosted New Orleans Fashion Week's Spring '12 collections at the beautiful Ogden Museum of Southern Art. I am still in awe of the hard work that was executed in order to showcase the talent here in New Orleans. Thank you's go out to the wonderful Sparkle Beetle + NOFC team for your hospitality throughout the week! Here are some still shots from behind the scenes. You'll be seeing a stream of posts from the shows in the next few days. For more behind the scenes pictures, check out my Facebook page here.

lounge area designed by shaun smith home

illy espresso bar c/o merchant nola

brandy pham trunk show at ste. marie nola

amazing collars from amanda deleon sold during the fashion market

fashion market

spotted these simply chic girls at the market

love the gingham and suede combo: spotted at the kay-la handbags booth

beginning of the amazing varela+brooks show

my new brandy pham pieces

for sale: fall goods

2011-10-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

If interested, please send an email to swankheights@gmail.com with your Paypal email address and name of item. Shipping for all items is $6. Will ship out all goods ordered this week on Monday, October 31, 2011.

(click pictures to enlarge, additional pictures available upon request)

~~left: zara stripe blazer, size small - $40~~ Sold
right: michael kors navy blue crop jacket, size 6 - $55

~~kimchi blue faux fur crop jacket, size XS - $25~~ sold

~~left: asos leather lazer cut draped blazer, size UK 6 (US small) - $40~~ sold
~~right: school boy blazer, size xs-s - $20~~ sold

~~aldo platforms, size 37 - $30~~ sold

hotel modern

2011-10-22T22:21:00.000-07:00

(eryn brinnie blouse + sonia rykiel trousers + brandy pham necklace + zara shoes + burberry wallet)

Was invited to a preview party of Hotel Modern (936 St. Charles), a chic international inspired hotel in Lee Circle opening late this fall. There, my sisterface and I indulged in delicious bites, including kobe beef tartare, from Chef Dominique Macquet's new French Vietnamese inspired restaurant as well as toured some of the beautiful new rooms. Mixologists from Cure (4905 Freret) created dangerous St. Charles Fruit Punch cocktails that kept me coming back for a good three servings. After enjoying a live performance by Morley, hopped over to Ste. Marie (930 Poydras) for an epic dinner with some of the city's most endearing people.

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snapshots 10.20.11

2011-10-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

details:

1. the king's favorite vietnamese ginger candies

2. ina's #1 rule for bouquets: combine different flowers in one color palette

3. amazing + effective green tea sugar scrub for face by simplesugars

4. breast cancer awareness in morning eggs

5. when tough decisions arise..i turn to this gadget

6. beauty rituals (simple sugars, kiehls microdermabrasion, tea tree shampoo + conditioners, the clarisonic)

7. fragrant soap bars made with all locally sourced ingredients

by sweet olive soap works (found at defend nola )

a midsummer night's dream

2011-10-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

(rodarte x target blouse + forever 21 skirt + zara heels + vintage necklace + jewelmint earrings)

When The Nola Project hosts a production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" for a select few shows at NOMA's Sculpture Garden, then you have to book your ticket immediately and prepare for an enjoyable performance with your favorite person. Date night was completed at our favorite sushi spot where we are always welcomed with the happiest of greetings and freshest selection of sushi. #happyface

(Don't forget to enter the Brandy Pham giveaway below!)

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brandy pham giveaway x nolafw

2011-10-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

If you weren't able to make it to Brandy Pham's trunk show last week then I take it you're not in New Orleans sooooo here's your chance to win a customized design - the antique gold 'Ari' chain necklace, perfect for a basic tee & jeans day or over your little black dress.

Terms:
Do one or all for more chances to win!

1. Leave a comment with your email address

2. Follow Brandy Pham on Twitter

3. Become a fan of Brandy Pham on Facebook
(be sure to let me know you followed in the comment section)

Giveaway ends Wednesday, October 19th + open to all readers

harvesting the music

2011-10-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

(american apparel deep v-neck tee + random maxi dress turned skirt + zara belt + thrifted sunnies + bag c/o rebecca minkoff + 'world's end' earrings c/o jewelmint)

Decided to freshen up this dress by tucking the top in to make a skirt for Harvest the Music, a free, local concert festival in Lafayette Square held every Wednesday for eight weeks throughout the fall (see the spring version here). Always a good way to unwind from a work day, especially since those delicious Cordina Mar-go-ritas are stocked and ready for you to get your happy hour on. Add a picnic blanket and good company and you're golden to finish your workweek off strong.

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random musings from around the abode

2011-10-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

1. baseball caps for when your hair is being mean

2. lemon, chocolate, pistachio macaroons

3. fresh hydrangeas in a mason jar + sucre gifts with kate spade polka dot notepad (#happyheart)
4. morning illy shakerato with croissant + double wheatgrass shots for funday

5. thanks for helping me reach 1700 followers on bloglovin'!

please click below if you'd like to start following:

thursday night cravings

2011-10-10T16:33:00.000-07:00

When you're feeling like a fancy girl's night out and logistically you'd like to stay in the downtown area, I'd suggest hopping over to Whiskey Blue (333 Poydras Street). They just introduced a new Louisiana inspired happy hour drink menu featuring $6 cocktails and an assortment of small plates. Had the kobe beef sliders and tempura fried shrimp with a sweet chili dipping sauce -- yummm. A few cocktails later, I was all set to continue the evening because we all know Thursdays are the new Fridays.

this love is ours

2011-10-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

(thrifted sweater + forever 21 skirt + alexander wang dakota boots + vintage bag + michele watch, thrifted bracelets)

Allowed myself to let my inner teeny bopper come out to catch the Taylor Swift concert with my sisterface and buddies. Somehow didn't get the memo because we were the only 20+ somethings without cowboy boots and denim skirts, but that was ok because we got along just fine with our Henney+cokes. Although she is young and I admit I did write her off at first, Ms. Swift is the only teeny bopper that I can stand because she is in control of her life and owns it while remaining humble. Respect.

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freret street market x the fry bar

2011-10-06T19:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I spent the afternoon lollygagging with my sister at the Freret Market, which is a unique market that offers space for local artists, retailers, and food vendors to set up shop and introduce themselves to the public while stimulating business for the Freret Street area. With all of the goods offered, live local music, and the weather being a steady, picturesque 75-80 degrees, it's no wonder why the market was such a success. If you liked my post about New York City's Hester Street Market (here) then you're going to have to clear off your calendar because this post is just an introduction to what you can expect on November 5th, when the market returns. #supportthelocals

My main mission for this trip was to get my hands back on some of The Fry Bar's amazeballs garlic & sea salt fries, but I was feeling like a lard ass so I also dipped into their thyme, garlic & manchego fries. Served with whole heads of roasted garlic so you can squeeze more flavor into the little monsters. This obviously calls for an OMFG.

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picture this

2011-10-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

(zara blazer + alexander wang tee + dvf skirt (love this similar skirt) + diy shoes + target ipad case/clutch (similar here) + lipcolor: covergirl 'embrace')

Still loving sharp shoulder anything - including this khaki military blazer that my fabulous cousin sent me. Paired it with some bargains that I found throughout the years - including this $60 DVF skirt and Alexander Wang tee that have been worn many times over. You don't have to have a ton of money - you just have to know where to look and which staple items to invest in!

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photo credit: jmc

photo diary: art for arts sake x vernon

2011-10-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

Last night, Magazine Street along with the rest of New Orleans was alive and well in celebration and support for the Contemporary Arts Center's Art for Arts Sake, an annual event that marks the beginning of the city's art season. I was invited by one of my favorite boutiques for women and men - Vernon (2049 Magazine Street) to live blog the night's happenings through Twitter and Facebook updates. I was floored by the details executed in order to transcend guests into the distinct 60s era. Thanks to the fabulous Vernon team for including me in this memorable event and special thanks to my readers for stopping by to say hello! Total happyface.

Here are some of my favorite shots. To view more pictures, please check out my Facebook album here.

(ottilie brodmann dress + prada origami heels + diane von furstenberg clutch)

1. oh you know, just blogging on top of a giant platform (cray!)

2. a very chic selection of coffee table books

3. chef neal - creator of popstars ice pops - dropped off some of his goodies!

4. gogo dancers + dj yamin posted outside

5. pieces from the ottilie brodmann trunk show

6. myface

7. the crowd was classic

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the color block is hot

2011-09-26T22:00:00.000-07:00

(asos turqouise draped dress tucked into asos skirt, steve madden platforms, layered necklaces, vintage bag)

(my sisterface + me in our favorite Batman inspired alley)

When your great college buddy who pioneered www.invadenola.com throws an epic book release party then you have to step out in bold colors and a little va va voom.

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art for arts sake x vernon

2011-09-25T20:12:00.000-07:00

Next Saturday evening, Magazine Street shops and art galleries will be celebrating its annual Art for Art's Sake event which features art openings, live entertainment, food and shopping on the most happening street in the city.

I'm excited to collaborate with the impeccably designed clothing emporium - Vernon (2049 Magazine Street) for the evening. There I'll be providing live coverage of the event which will include the Ottilie Brodmann trunk show, dancers swinging to 60s retro-inspired music by DJ Yamin, and screenings of the Ottilie Brodman Fall 2011 video lookbook by videographer Tyler Yee. Be sure to start your evening at the hottest spot before continuing your night's adventures and say hello!

photo credit for vernon photos: iheartnola.com

look at the stars, look how they shine for you

2011-09-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

(eryn brinnie blouse, asos neoprene skirt, 1522 boutique necklace, cole haan suede mary janes, dvf clutch)

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an old school love affair

2011-09-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

Because it was date night and we wanted to spark up some old school romance, the king and I played dress up and hopped on over to Bouligny Tavern (3641 Magazine Street) where we were welcomed with classic tunes from Otis Redding playing in a 60s James Bond / Mad Men-esque atmosphere. There we nibbled on fresh oysters, tender truffled + fleur de sel burrata crostini, comte' profiteroles and my favorite - the octopus fried in a delicate batter. With so much goodness happening and in good company, one can't help but leave feeling blessed because life has been kind.

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avery fine perfumery

2011-09-20T01:53:00.000-07:00

Having never really been in tuned with the art of perfumery, I jumped on the invitation to check out and meet the developers of Avery Fine Perfumery (527 St. Joseph Street) in the Arts District. There I was given an in-depth lesson about what goes into making fine perfumes and how it aligns with the fashion world. I definitely walked away with a deeper understanding of fragrances and a desire to invest in one of their unique selections. See below for my interview with Shannon Drake, director of sales and marketing for Intertrade Europe.

1. Describe your vision for Avery Fine Perfumery and what guests can expect during a visit.
My vision is for every visitor to leave with a better understanding of the art of making a fragrance. I think that American consumers are so overwhelmed with marketing and ads that they aren't able to choose what they really love. Our job is to educate them and help them complete their fragrance wardrobe.

2. You mentioned Avery is only located in two locations in London and Italy. Why did you decide to open a shop in New Orleans, particularly the Arts District?

Avery is a tribute to the artform of fragrance. It only made sense to put the location in the arts district surrounded by other artists. New Orleans overall is the only city in America where you can truely appreciate every sense; sight, sound, taste, touch. And now we have completed that with the smell.

3. How do perfumes and fashion relate?

On so many levels perfume and fashion are one in the same. We have designers behind each fragrance, we come out with new scents every year, and no one wants to be caught wearing the same dress as someone else, so why would you want to wear the same perfume. We also don't carry the same handbags year round or wear the same shoes. Fragrance is an accessory and should be treated as such. Just like you would pick out a different pair of earrings for night, or a different bracelet, you should do the same for fragrance. Consider Avery your fragrance stylist.

4. What brands do you carry?
We carry Nasomatto, Carthusia, SoOud, Nez a Nez, Profumi del Forte, and the New Blood Concept. We also have a beautiful line of candles called Hype Noses.

5. Do you have any advice for women and men who would like to learn more about the process of picking the perfect fragrance for day and night?

Come and see us but don't wear any fragrance. Give yourself about 30 minutes to an hour to sample and test what we have. We might even send you away with a couple on your skin to see which one wears the best. Whatever you like is what you like, there really is no way to tell what is perfect for night or day.

mi armoire

2011-09-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

(armoire boutique blouse+skirt+cuff, target hat, alexander wang boots, diane von furstenberg lytton clutch)

Armoire Boutique (4222a Magazine Street) ranks top 5 on my list of favorite uptown boutiques because owner and super sweetheart Erin has a great eye for on-trend affordable pieces like the blouse and skirt pictured above. The two together will run you less than $80 and you'll successfully achieve a quality Saks-worthy look. For my local readers - tell Erin you heard of the boutique through my blog and she'll take 10% off your order! Get it girlsss.

Shop Armoire Online

By the way - the morning after fishtail braids always results in the perfect tasseled beach hair look. #win

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food diy: fancy grilled cheese

2011-09-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

One of the first things I ever made when I was 10 years old was a grilled cheese sandwich. It still remains a favorite to make and be creative with because the options are endless and the process is simple. The other day I was inspired by the Roxy Grilled Cheese truck's caramelized onion + gouda grilled cheese on the Food Network's Great Truck Race. Instead of gouda, I used a hybrid goat cheese brie and sturdy nutty bread. The result was amazeballs.

(avocado oil, caramelize onions recipe, farmer's market tomato, goat cheese brie, sunflower seed + honey bread)

1. butter one side of two slices of bread

2. layer slices of cheese, tomatoes and caramelize onions between bread

3. drizzle avocado oil on tomatoes if you're feeling fancy

4. grill on each buttered side until golden brown at medium-low heat, about 3-4 minutes

served with ms. vickie's jalapeno kettle cooked chips + spicy pickled okra

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good cheese, white wine, i come alive in the nighttime

2011-09-17T23:24:00.000-07:00

(zara blazer, steve madden platforms, urban outfitters hoodie jumper, target hat)

When you pair your best $10 find from Urban Outfitters circa 2008 with epic platforms all you need is good cheese and 'white wine to come alive in the nighttime'.

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standard

2011-09-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

(zara trench+shoes, j.crew minnie trousers, chris benz top, etsy clutch)

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playing favorites #nyfw

2011-09-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Yigal Azrouel SS'12 has everything my wardrobe desires to be.

Reem Acra created my dream wedding dress. #wishfulthinking

photo credit: style.com

playing favorites

2011-09-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

favorite ice cream - can be found at poeyfarre market in the warehouse district

half 'fresh' with extra tomatoes for her, half custom veggie for him at slice pizzeria

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downtown kind of day

2011-09-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

(zara blazer + shoes, rodarte x target dress, vintage bag, jewelmint bangle)

Decided to spice things up a bit this morning and brought Jameson downtown for a short stroll in Lafayette Square and then to PJ's Coffee (633 Camp Street). I hope you all don't think I'm a crazy leopard print lady but it's sooo good for the fall. I know everyone's going bananas over the Missoni x Target line but the Rodarte collection is by far my favorite. This dress (seen here and here) has been a staple in my closet and is clearly not going anywhere.

Now off to prepare for a huge Nola movers+shakers meeting. Salut!

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food diy: who dat eats

2011-09-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

When it's the first game of the NFL season and your home team is playing but you don't feel like bingeing on hot wings or pizza, then keep it southern with sweet potater tots, healthy with a salmon burger, and fresh with a pitcher of ice cold Kool-Aid.

ingredients: 3 sweet potatoes, salt&pepper (s+p), egg wash, panko breadcrumbs

1. cut sweet potatoes into chunks and boil until right before they turn fork tender, about 8 minutes

2. with two forks, flake the sweet potatoes

3. scoop out about a tablespoon size amount of flaked sweet potatoes and form into tater tot cylinders

4. get your egg wash + panko breadcrumbs ready with s+p

4. roll tots in egg wash, then into panko

5. then fry in vegetable oil at medium high heat for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown

wasabi mayonnaise and spicy siracha ketchup

I served the tots alongside a salmon burger with black sesame seeds + wasabi mayo + butter lettuce.

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game changer

2011-09-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

oh girls, it just got serious.

dakota boots

nolafno twenty eleven

2011-09-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

(asos dress, boutique 1522 necklace, diy shoes, vintage bag, essie polish in 'coat azure')

details:

1. #fno signage

2. the shoe brigade

3. blogger bff + mr. nola fw

4. iheartnola.com + the king

5. ms. chanel

6. stylecakes

7. kelby floyd

8. tweeting to the beat

9. myface

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zara bananas

2011-09-07T13:44:00.000-07:00

Pretty sure you've all placed an order for some goodies at Zara already and if not, get out from under that rock! Thanks to the kind folks from Zara, I got to preview the online site early with a little play money and have to say that the overall shopping experience was easy, concise and hassle free. It's pretty cool being able to finally access my all-time favorite shop without having to drive hours to the nearest location - I say it's about time and they've done a tremendous job announcing their arrival.

Pictured above is a collection of photographs especially curated for the US opening titled "Dear America" that depicts beautiful scenery from each state. It's lovely to represent Louisiana and all its glory and even better now with some Zara swag. Excited to share my goodies and to hear about yours!

Shop Zara

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mojo > starbucks

2011-09-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

(thrifted blouse - buffalo exchange, chain necklace - 1522 boutique, boy's blazer c/o brigid catiis, skinny trousers - f21, maddee loafers - stevemadden)

When a tropical storm is brewing in the gulf and brings in cooler weather, you have to take advantage of the breeze with some layers. Dropped by my favorite neighborhood coffee shop Mojo's (1500 Magazine Street) for a morning brew but decided against the wheat croissant which was the main thing that carried me through the day when I was a teacher. Now I'm figuring out the next chapter in life -- have no clue and it feels completely freeing.

**don't forget to enter the shopbop giveaway > here. just a few days left. good luck!

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saks celebrates fashion's night out in nola

2011-09-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

So excited that Fashion's Night Out isn't exclusively for New York City anymore! Next Thursday Saks Fifth Avenue is hosting FNO right here in New Orleans. It's amazing to see a premiere retailer embracing new media to support our city's fashion scene and inviting us along for the ride! With that said, come join me and several other stylish bloggers for happy hour in the shoe department. We'll drink, gawk at the newest collection of shoes and the new Rachel Zoe Collection, jam to DJ Kemesitry, and still have enough time to catch the Saints game! I can't think of a better way to spend a Thursday.

Details

Date: Thursday, September 8th

Time: 4:00 - 7:00 PM

Location: 301 Canal Street, 2nd floor shoe department

Send me a tweet (@juleytl) if you plan on stopping by!

food diy: fried shrimp tacos

2011-08-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

There have been many requests for restaurant posts but honestly the king and I have been eating in to be economical. We save the eating out for Thursdays or the weekends. Luckily our parents and grandparents are like our very own fish mongers who help keep our freezer stocked with fresh shrimp and fish, which is the only protein we've been eating in efforts to cut out red and white meat. Because our weekly grocery trips mainly consist of gathering fresh local produce either from the farmer's market or the local favorite - Rouses Supermarket, I've been coming up with random recipes and today's lunch special was fried shrimp tacos.

See below for my not-so-specific recipe. You can easily make your own version with different ingredients.

I forgot to take a picture of the mix but if you go to your local Vietnamese grocer and ask for a bag of 'Chien Gion' they'll hand you a bag of shrimp frying batter. My sister taught me that adding beer to this batter will create a thicker, crispier coating so I added New Orleans' own Abita Satsuma. I swear you can taste the satsuma!

Panko crusted shrimp:
(lb large shrimp, dipping batter, half a bottle of beer, panko breadcrumbs)
1. peel shrimp leaving the tails, clean and devein
2. dip shrimp into beer batter and then coat with panko breadcrumbs
3. fry for 2 minutes on each side on medium heat, season with salt and pepper

Mango Salsa:
(1 mango, half a large tomato, 1 avocado, bunch of cilantro, 1 lemon)
1. dice mango, tomato, and avocado and place into bowl
2. add lemon juice and roughly chopped cilantro
3. season with salt and pepper

Sauteed peppers + onions
(half a red bell pepper, half an onion)
1. slice pepper and onion
2. sautee with olive oil over medium low heat until tender

All of the fixings ready to be assembled...

Despite eating fried shrimp for lunch, it was pretty dang healthy, fresh, and satisfying! Hope you try this at home.

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giveaway x shopbop

2011-08-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

*Giveaway closed. Thank you ALL so much for such thoughtful entries. Congratulations Liz Quach on your win! More Shopbop giveaways coming soon.*

When you can't have a closet filled with goodies like Rebecca Minkoff shoes or Jil Sander blouses but you can win $100 towards fall-ready women's flats or whatever your heart desires from ShopBop, then you have to enter this Swank Heights x ShopBop giveaway.

shopbop blog

2 simple ways to enter:

1. Leave a comment telling me what trend(s) you're excited to sport this season and/or

2. Tell me what kind of posts you'd like to see more of

*Giveaway ends Saturday, September 10th

Please leave your email address.*

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waka flaka flame

2011-08-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

(Forever 21 blouse, American Apparel bow, Tibi pleated skirt, DIY heels, Target iPad case similar here)

When Saks Fifth Avenue invites you to to be a part of their bloggers lounge during Fashions Night Out then you just have to say.......yes! More details coming soon.

photo credit: jmc
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fall's to get list

2011-08-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

[topshop sweater, steve madden 'madee' loafers, style by marina sheer sleeveless blouse, asos cuff, random collar]

popst*rs

2011-08-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

When it feels like a thousand degrees outside, I head across the street to Juan's Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine Street) where they not only serve the best pork and slaw tacos but also Popstars popsicles. The genius that is Chef Neal has a way of bringing together unique flavors like blueberry+thai and my personal favorite Vietnamese coffee + coconut into little pops of heaven. Thank you for delivering fresh flavors into the neighborhood every week and making New Orleans humidity a little more bearable!

pour some bailey's on me

2011-08-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

(Brigid Catiis schoolboy blazer, F21 button up over Branch Out jumper, vintage belt, DVF clutch, DIY shoes)

After roaming the city with the DIY shoes several times now, I can confidently say the experiment was a success! The trick is to get good paint - I used 'Gold' brand acrylic paint from National Art & Hobby (5825 Magazine Street) - and to choose a shoe made of leather or in my case half leather, half mesh. I thoroughly cleaned the shoes before painting and had to spray a few layers but the process took less than an hour of manual labor.

Took the new shoes out to Sucre (3025 Magazine Street) where I discovered that affogato gelato becomes infinitely better when you substitute espresso for Bailey's Irish Cream. Pair that deliciousness with banana's foster + cafe au lait macaroons and you've just made New Orleans a little fancier. Woot!

photo credit: jmc

i bid thee adieu

2011-08-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Just received news that the beloved Fair Folks & a Goat, the art gallery/coffee shop that I'm constantly singing praises for will be closing their New Orleans location. While I'm really, really sad to hear about losing this gem, I wish the amazing team the best and remain grateful for the relationship we've built together. As a result of the closing, they'll be drastically cutting prices on all items at their shop such as the beautiful vintage jewelry pictured above. Don't miss the opportunity to capitalize on the goods!

food diy: sweet potater tots

2011-08-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

When you're craving something no one makes or sells, then you just have to do it yourself!

Tater tots - yum.
Tater tots made with sweet potatoes - delicious.
Sweet potater tots battered in Japanese panko breadcrumbs - genius.
Dipped into a Siracha-lemon aioli - over the top!

My recipe needs a bit tweaking but I'll be sure to post it soon!

paint the town

2011-08-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

When you're on a budget and want to update your shoe closet, a $10 can of spray paint can do the trick of transforming impractical white Bebe (Stella McCartney knock-offs) heels into something more wearable for the upcoming fall season.

Before

The results:

Ta-Da!

cold drip

2011-08-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

(H&M blazer, Forever21 pleather shorts + blouse, Brandy Pham necklace, Etsy oversized stripe clutch, Cole Haan Mary Janes)

Stopped by Fair Folks & A Goat (2116 Chartres Street) to grab a cup of Nola's best iced coffee with the king right before we settled down for a quiet dinner and the Saints' first preseason game.

photo credit: jmc

neighborhood stroll

2011-08-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

(linen blazer c/o ShopKempt J. Crew blouse, F21 chain necklace, vintage belt buckle, H&M skirt,'Celeste' cuffs c/o Kendra Scott , Etsy oversized clutch, Aldo platforms *on sale!)

The king and I took our little guy out for a fashionable stroll down our street. He's become quite the neighborhood celebrity!

photo credit: jmc

august rush

2011-08-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

(LF sequin beanie, Urbn dress, vintage belt, Target sandals)

Say hello to the newest member of my family, Jameson!

there are no shortcuts to quality.

2011-08-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

There aren't many places in New Orleans where locals willingly wait nearly an hour in the sweltering humidity in order to satisfy their cravings unless the waiting results in a fluffy Sno-Bliz from the historic, family favorite Hansen's Sno-Bliz (4801 Tchoupitoulas) aka snowball aka snowcone. I've had my fair share of snowballs but there is no other place that can garner childhood nostalgia the way their Satsuma Snow Bliz filled with fresh strawberries have the power to do. Maybe it's because they make their own syrups and have used the same machine since the 1930s or because you can only get it in the hottest months of the year. Whatever the case it's worth the wait - every time.

052511

2011-05-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

Life's been a little crazy in my corner so here's a quick post.

(ShopKempt linen blue blazer, Vintage lace maxi, Aldo platforms, Rebecca Minkoff MAB bag)

support: pencils of promise bloggers initiative

2011-05-18T07:53:00.001-07:00

While this blog's purpose is to share my fashion musings and food excursions with my readers, I want to tell you about Pencils of Promise or PoP. PoP is a nonprofit organization that builds schools in developing communities across the world. With the help of 150,000 young supporters they've built 35 schools in Laos, Nicaragua, and Gautemala.

Some of you know that I am part of Teach For America and have been teaching in a low-income school for the past two years. My commitment is coming to an end this summer and I feel grateful to have had this humbling experience. It's evident that education is not only vital for children here in the states but also for those who lack the basic necessities in developing countries.

When co-founder Mimi told me about their Blogger's Initiative Day, I was compelled to jump on board to raise awareness for this important issue. I've created a fundraising page to raise $250 that will completely go towards building a school and providing education to children in Guatemala.

If you would like to join this movement, please consider creating a fundraising page or helping me reach my goal on my page juley4all.stayclassy.org.

Thank you for reading!

preview x a certain romance

2011-05-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

See the full post tomorrow on www.minkette.com!

photo credit: jmc

the morning after bag

2011-05-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

(Burberry wallet, Nikon S8100, Five gum, Palm Pixi, Revlon 'Crystal Lilac', Timex watch, WWII museum ticket stub, vintage + f21 sunnies, all white everything Ipad)

Electric Blueberry*

2011-05-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

(Banana Republic parka, VS tube tank, Opening Ceremony pants, Cole Haan suede Mary Janes)

*renamed because you awesome readers loved the electric blue so much.

An attempt at cool

2011-05-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

My clothes rack is stocked with flowy button-downs because they are so versatile. I've kept to purchasing neutrals and whites because I can be kind of a square when I become accustomed to a certain style. To my delight the plaid pattern on this Alainn Bella button down spiced things up a bit for me. I paired it over a basic tank, F21 faux leather high waisted shorts and flip-flops because I need to be practical when roaming aimlessly!

(In looooooovvveee with this Rebecca Minkoff MAB Mini in black leather)

So excited to start guest blogging for Rebecca Minkoff's amazing blog MINKETTE following some of my favorite bloggers footsteps! Please check out the first post this Wednesday, May 11th!

How to escape hump day

2011-05-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

See the full post on Minkette.com

Sundays at Bacchanal

2011-05-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

When it is Sunday and the very last day of Spring Break before you have to get back into the grind of a 7-5 and all you want to do is unwind with two of your best friends, then you have to go to Bacchanal Wine and Spirits in the Bywater neighborhood.

In the vast and homey courtyard, you can expect a new menu every evening alongside live jazz. There isn't anything more calming and inviting than this in the city.

(Zara sheer button down, silk ribbon, H&M belt, F21 shoes, J.Crew Minnie pants)

photo credit: jeanine

A sucker for patterns

2011-05-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

(Maxi dress from Love Culture, Brigid Catiis blazer, MICHELE watch, F21 chain, Vtg sunnies)

Walked into a random teeny bopper store in the mall and fell in love with the pattern and shape of this maxi dress. Can't wait to turn it into a skirt in a coming post!

For the crisp days

2011-04-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

(Zara sweater, Sonia Rykiel trousers, Aldo platforms, Saddleback Leather bag, vintage sunnies)

Springtime in the South

2011-04-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

an epic brunch at Stanley's in Jackson Square

Eggs Stanley - perfectly poached eggs with cornmeal crusted fried oyster

a traditional crawfish boil at his grandparents house 'down the bayou' in my hometown

fresh, fresh, fresh blue crab

everything is fresh, organic and homegrown

Dark Behavior

2011-04-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

Diane Von Furstenberg Lytton Snake Clutch

When it's your first day of spring break and you vow to sleep in but your body wakes up like clockwork at the buttcrack of dawn, your inner dark girl will want to play in the misty morning French Quarter streets. The feminine and airy Dolly Pearl 'Camilia' blouse and leopard print tank dress (belted to become a skirt) perfectly brought together a look that was inspired by my most adventurous lip color - Revlon's Sultry Sable.

photo credit: jmc

A Sparkling Date Night

2011-04-12T20:24:00.000-07:00

When you're looking to make your date night sparkle without too much of a fuss, you hop over to Canal Place Theatres for a pampered movie night.

There, the waiters eagerly seat you with a menu full of dangerous cocktails and a range of small bites from gourmet popcorn for the nibblers to delicious, impressively well-made flatbread pizzas for the more hungry movie goer.

And after the movie, you have to go down to Frenchmen to 13 for their glutinous serving of Tater Tachos because, well, the name says it all!

Afternoon at the Ogden

2011-03-31T21:35:00.000-07:00

Diane Von Furstenburg dress (via Neiman's Last Call) and clutch (via Slow Southern Style's contest with Total Woman Boutique), gifted Brigid Catiis navy blue boys blazer, sisterface's owl pin, Micheal Kors platforms

Thank you Christine of My Style Pill for snapping this picture!

Week in Review

2011-03-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

The Nola Fashion Week team did an awe inspiring job with last week's events. Little is known about the fashion down here simply because there hasn't been a well developed scene. But after last week's events and runway shows that spotlighted Southern-bred designers, I have full confidence that New Orleans is well on its way to defining its own culture of fashion in the months to come. Thank you Rachael, Nick, Andi for being visionaries and believing in the potential of our city and, of course, for your hospitality throughout the week!

The Art of Style at Le Phare featured local artist Sarah Ashley Longshore's exhibition of Anna Wintour paintings. Spunky and hilarious!

The signature drink, comprised of Absolut Peach Vodka and a bunch of other stuff I don't remember, was dangerous and instantaneously my sister's favorite new drink.

Industry Engaged Cocktails @ Capdeville
I am still oogling over their manila folder menus...just the teacher coming out.

'Creating A Compelling Voice' Blogger panel at the beautiful Martine Chaisson Gallery

>>Pictured with fellow Southern blogger and perfect date Rachel and one of the speakers, Lindsay of SaucyGlossie who is just adorably chic.

The Ogden Museum was the perfect location for this kind of event. It enhanced the charm of the Southern designers' collections in an intimate, yet provocative atmosphere.

I worked at one of Emeril's restaurants with Gerrin (right) a few years ago and now he's launched an eclectic denim line that I can see Kanye sporting. They're both killing the Louboutins!

Nola-FashionWeek

With Mr. Invade Nola.

Capdeville

2011-03-26T22:19:00.000-07:00

When you're obsessed with British accents and fawn over every fashion magazine's UK edition and you want to feel like you're in London even though you're in Nola, then you just have to make a pit stop at Capdeville (520 Capdeville).

'An American Interpretation of a British Social House'

Loved the subway tiles, red and white wallpaper, and the clean pub feel of the interior

A whole section dedicated to fries? A girl could not ask for more.

A sampling of my picks: poutine fries, cucumber salad, and deviled eggs with smoked salmon and capers. I like to make sure my selection's textures are well balanced. Crunchy + smooth + and refreshing. (I'm also kind of OCD about my gelato but that's another post.)

The kicker - truffle mac and cheese with pancetta.

032511

2011-03-24T22:03:00.000-07:00

(Forever 21 blouse, American Apparel bow, Opening Ceremony shorts, H&M belt, Moschino Cheap & Chic dress turned jacket, Zara shoes, MICHELE watch)

photocredit: sisterface

A balancing act

2011-03-23T17:50:00.000-07:00

(Forever 21 blouse + scarf + shoes, H&M skirt, Calvin Klein bag, JewelMint bangle)

When it's hump day and you would rather be enjoying a cocktail at the London social house-inspired Capdeville for New Orleans Fashion Week's Industry Cocktail instead of lesson planning, you have to carefully balance out your evening. Zoom out of work when the clock strikes 4:45, beat the traffic back uptown, throw together a comfortable happy hour appropriate outfit, say hello to Nola's finest for 30 minutes, wish you hadn't forgotten your wallet so that you could try the poutine fries and smoked salmon deviled eggs, and then stroll back uptown to camp out at Starbucks with your only cup of coffee for the week to finish your lesson plans in order to hit your 10:30pm bedtime. Done! And with this blog post to boot.

photocredit: sisterface

My Fair Lady

2011-03-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

I think every girl can remember the first time she watched My Fair Lady, particularly the scene where Audrey Hepburn's character Eliza Doolittle debuts her more civilized, ladylike makeover to the high society at a horse race. Being at the Fairgrounds for the spring issue launch of New Orleans' own fashion magazine, Amelie G, was the ideal way to relive this little daydream. The evening called for big hats, delicious food from Boucherie, and lots of catching up with friends I haven't seen in years!

#LA is the new LA

2011-03-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

While doing the shoot for The Gambit's CUE Magazine back in January, I was excited to hear about the upcoming New Orleans Fashion Week from one of the creators and fellow blogger Rachael LaRoche. New Orleans hasn't really had the opportunity to put itself on the map as one of the top places for fashion, but NOLA FW sets out to change this by revolving a slew of workshops, cocktail parties, and runway shows around Southern-bred designers. I'm personally excited about seeing what Sophomore, Jolie & Elizabeth, and Matthew Arthur Apparel Architecture have to offer as well as attending the wrap up party at one of my favorite venues, EIFFEL.

If you are interested in attending any of the workshops or events or if you simply want to learn more about NOFW, check out Nola-FashionWeek. The organization will be donating $1 for every ticket purchased to the Tsunami / Earthquake Relief Fund. You can also check out previews of the collections on the Tumblr site: here.

Zulu

2011-03-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

"I think that I may say that an American has not seen the United States until he has seen Mardi Gras in New Orleans." — Mark Twain, 1869.
(Derived from NOFW blog)
See below for Mardi Gras Day festivities at the Zulu Parade on St. Charles Street.

Growing up I never was a big Mardi Gras fan but this year brought out the tourist in me.

People let go of their inhibitions for days.

The city celebrates tradition and debauchery.

Every day is a party.

You binge on the most delicious, unhealthy foods before cleaning up during lent.

You play dress up.

Business on the top, party on the bottom.

You do whatever it takes to get beads that will end up taking up space in your attic.

You leave the day behind at Eiffel - best place to catch all of the action.

I am in love with my city.

Krewe de Bauchery

2011-03-08T16:07:00.000-08:00

(Forever 21 white pocket blouse + swallow jacket + shoes, gifted Hudson 'Baby Boot' jeans, gifted Saddleback Leather bag, gifted Native LA necklace, JewelMint bangle - thanks to Lisa!)

I am on a constant hunt for white flowy button down shirts, especially when spring weather starts kicking in. Found this one at Forever 21 along with the perfect little swallow blouse to throw over jumpers and the highest, deceivingly comfortable wedges. These pieces begged to be worn with a pair of comfy jeans so I turned to the Hudson 'Baby Boot' to bring together an easy outfit made for the Zulu Parade on St. Charles. I wasn't ever much of a jeans girl but I've pretty much worn these babies out. It's amazing how they accentuate the right curves and make my legs appear inches longer.

Also super excited about two beautiful pieces of jewelry to add to my small collection. The first being the Birdcage Bangle from Kate Bosworth's jewelry line - JewelMint. The detail and construction is immaculate - I'm thinking about ordering two more so that I can stack them. (Thanks Lisa of Cocobella Ballerina!) The quirky, versatile King's necklace is from the sweet girls at Native LA. I wore it out right after opening their package because it came in right in time for the debauchery that is Mardi Gras - post coming soon.

For the Mad Men

2011-02-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

(ASOS dress turned blouse, VTG necklace from Branch Out, Urbn pants)

When you want to recycle your birthday dress but don't want to be an outfit repeater too soon, tuck it into some granny pants. You'll have a little extra sag but it'll make for a more interesting outfit. heh - only kidding. I always find myself trying to figure out more uses of a single garment especially when it's as flattering as this dress. Note: doesn't work as well with scarves. Those things are just meant for the neck!

Good Things

2011-02-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

one: personalized birthday cards from a best friend

two: h&m's eco-friendly collection out in April

three: rugs as headboards
(source not known)

four: happy thoughts
(source not known)

five: the nikon s8100 is the perfect substitute for my nikon D60 SLR.
when I don't want to lug around a big camera but still want to capture the same quality shots I have this baby handy.
(Find it on Amazon for under $200.)

six: fleur de sel caramels, ina garten's recipe here
>>this picture was taken with the s8100...clear as crystal!

Check out: SwellMayde

2011-02-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

For amazing and super easy to follow DIYs, check out the new blog SwellMayde by talented designer Aimee. She puts so much thought into each post!

012911

2011-01-29T07:12:00.000-08:00

The Orange Couch

On my drive home from work I always see this inconspicuous building simply labeled with the word COFFEE on its doors. I finally got to check out this low-key, mod inspired coffee house. It has a different touch of charm and is a nice addition to the city, especially if I'm craving a scene similar to Moby's TeaNY (in New York's Lower East Side). The coolest thing about this place is its apparent knowledge of good Vietnamese coffee. It's only a traditional drink if made the right way - slow dripped Cafe Du Monde chickory with condensed milk served over ice. Feels like I'm back at home again!

They offer the largest selection of dried tea.

And fresh homemade granola. We're marching toward a healthier Nola!

If they have mochi on the menu, especially raspberry white chocolate and coconut chocolate, then you have to finish off your modern breakfast in style.

(Urbn Outfitters hat, Oscar de la Renta scarf, F21 burnout shirt, MICHELE watch)

City Safari

2011-01-22T11:38:00.000-08:00

A friend recently noticed that my pictures are finally back to the quality that she was used to seeing on my blog. I can contribute my food pictures to my camera and eye, but without the king's natural ability to find unique angles I would not have decent blog pictures! So thank you, Mr., for your willingness to wake up just when the sun is rising to bring out the best in our little city safari.

Nola Food: Three Muses

2011-01-20T22:20:00.000-08:00

One thing to know about New Orleans restaurants, especially Asian or mom and pop owned spots, is that they choose the most random nights to close. You might be craving a big bowl of pho or gumbo and be willing to drive thirty minutes across the river to satisfy your craving on Tuesday only to find that they are not open for business (insert hangry face - hungry+angry). Luckily, Three Muses (536 Frenchmen Street) has normal business hours and was open to make me very happy on a random Wednesday night food excursion with the king. I got word of this jewel from Anthony (Fair Folks & A Goat) during a recent shoot so thank you for the great tip!

Usually bustling with foot traffic and tourists, Frenchman Street was actually calm and inviting.

I couldn't decide what was better - the homemade ice cream or live unobtrusive jazz band that made a simple night sparkle.

The must have nibbler: feta fries + gremolata

lamb sliders + goat cheese + tomato chutney

Hookers on Donkeybacks: oysters wrapped in bacon on rosemary skewers.
The spicy jalapeno vinaigrette was the perfect addition! Small portion but huge flavor.

banana marscapone struedel

I couldn't have enjoyed a more perfect Wednesday.

On CUE

2011-01-18T21:19:00.000-08:00

Excited to share with you all the finished product from The Gambit's Cue Magazine feature on New Orleans bloggers. The article, directed by Missy Wilkerson, was very well written and reflective of the direction that New Orleans fashion is headed toward.

Love the layout and design!

Rachael LaRoche, Rachel Hall, and myself were invited to a local television show to discuss our feature as well as our blogs. I'm not made for TV but it was quite an experience!

I wore a White House Black Market tweed blazer, Dolly Pearl one sleeve ruffle top, F21 pants, Brandy Pham bracelet, and Zara platforms to the live taping.

One of the best things that have come from this experience is establishing new relationships with these two fabulous girls. We all share different styles but represent New Orleans in our own little way. We had such a great time chatting over coffee at Satsuma (3218 Dauphine St) about collaborations and future blog posts. Be on the lookout!