Senin, 31 Januari 2011

A Rainy Sunday

After a few weeks of summer-like temps in LA, the rain and gloom of winter finally emerged yesterday. It even hailed a bit when I drove over Laurel Canyon; a rare but welcomed sight indeed. The weather was a perfect excuse to change into my pj's, watch movies, cook a huge batch of soup, and browse some shops online that I'd saved in my bookmarks folder.

1. Clemens En August tunic 2. Parker dress 3. Balmain dress 4. Kain dress 5. Alberta Ferretti top 6. Adam tank 7. Stella McCartney sweater 8. 3.1 Phillip Lim sweater 9. All Saints scarf 10. Miu Miu wallet 11.Chloe sunglasses 12. Eugenia Kim fedora

Here's to a fabulous week ahead...

PS. If you have twitter, I'd love to connect with you! @brunchsaksblog

Jumat, 28 Januari 2011

Office Space

1. Farrow & Ball paint 2. Farrow & Ball wallpaper 3. Vintage VW print

Let's be honest: a home office for most of us is merely code for extra storage space. It's always nice to dream about the plethora of decor schemes that will "someday" be executed, but with one too many leftover moving boxes, old college textbooks, and seasonal jackets lying around, it's a tad bit daunting to even think about such a task. Since I'm currently in said position, I've been looking at a ton of office spaces for inspiration; these two having caught my eye for their sentimental charm and bold, glamorous style.

1. Farrow & Ball paint 2. Utility Design ghost chair 3. Kate Grey rug

PS. I want to say thank you to ELLE Decor for having me on their 'Design Insiders' series today! Head on over to find out which website I am loving most this week :)

Kamis, 27 Januari 2011

Gluten Free Chocolate Fudge Cookie Recipe - Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Soy Free Desserts

-I may or may not have eaten all of the above yesterday-

I'm doing a happy dance today to the tune of "if at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again." Since going gluten/dairy/soy/you-name-it free, I've had a horrendous time finding a chocolate cookie that even resembles its glutinous counterpart. The box mixes don't fit into my window of ingredient-tolerant needs, and most of the homemade recipes I've tried ended up in a dry, tasteless mess. Thankfully, the cookie gods were all on duty yesterday, as this fabulous recipe turned out to be the perfect balance of chocolatey, chewy, could-have-fooled-me goodness.


Click below for recipe


Warning: I never promised these were healthy!

1/4 c. rice flour
2 tbs. butter (I used Earth Balance soy-free)
2 1/2 c. chocolate chips* (I used Enjoy Life)
2 eggs
2/3 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. baking powder (I used Rumford gluten/aluminum free)
optional: 1 c. pecans or walnuts

*If you can tolerate ingredients in any type of chocolate, separate the chocolate by: 2 c. semi-sweet chips, 1/4 c. bittersweet chocolate (chopped), 1/4 unsweetened chocolate (chopped)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

-In a medium saucepan, melt 1 1/2 c. of chocolate chips, and the butter.
-Remove from heat; add eggs, sugar, rice flour, vanilla, and baking powder. Stir until combined.
-Mix in remaining 1 c. of chocolate chips and nuts (if using)
-Drop dough (it will look like cake batter) by the tablespoon onto a parchment lined (or greased) cookie sheet
-Bake 8-10 minutes, or until surface of the cookie looks dull and cracked.
-Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.

Store in an airtight container up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator up to 1 week.

To freeze: Cool completely. Layer cookies between parchment paper dividers in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 months

Adapted from
Gluten Free Mommy

Rabu, 26 Januari 2011

The New 'It' Color

With every new season comes yet another it color in the fashion world. Whether it's a deep plum for fall or a lighter shade of turquoise for spring; the turnover rate for a trending hue is fierce and quick. At the Golden Globes we were introduced to the newest illumination: emerald green. The fascinatingly vibrant color was worn by the likes of Angelina Jolie, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Mila Kunis- all of whom donned it elegantly in their respective gowns. As with any season's color, I won't get too attached, although it might be hard this time around because it's simply beautiful.

1. Tibi dress 2. Marni dress 3. Fever London dress 4. Fever London tunic 5. MM Couture top 6. Jean Paul Gaultier top 7. Marni top 8. Jucca sweater 9. Kelsi Dagger flats 10. Tory Burch flats 11. Miu Miu flats

Selasa, 25 Januari 2011

A good find...

Over the weekend I found this beautiful copy of Happy Living for New Homemakers at our Farmer's Market. The book was written in 1977 by the Editors of Modern Bride and is filled with plenty of tidbits (most irrelevant, albeit charming) on how to make a newly merged home a happy one. Though everyday life is a far cry from what it was in the 70s, I must admit that a few of the tips in the book- such as how to set the perfect dining table- can and shall come in handy when the time calls for a soiree or two. Even if the book serves as nothing more than a reference for period styling, I am happy to have paid mere cents to call it my own.

- The perfect addition to a nightstand in desperate need of pizazz-

Senin, 24 Januari 2011

Open Spaces

Open spaces are the bane of my existence. After living in dorm rooms, an apartment, and a small townhouse throughout the past 6 years, I welcomed the much larger and airy space in our new house with open arms. Fast forward to almost a year later, and here I am, stuck with an endless amount of possibilities to fill such a space, yet consistently failing as absolutely nothing feels right. I'm hoping a few of these images will spark some uncharted creativity within, as I'm in desperate need to make the space feel like home.

I had to add this in because I adore the hanging chair:

[photos via Living Etc]

Kamis, 20 Januari 2011

J'adore: Classic Stars and their Bikes

Sometimes a post is in need of an explanation and other times the pictures themselves will simply do. Today is one in which the latter takes precedence. Elegance. Class. Grace. Synonymize as you may. J'adore.

Rabu, 19 Januari 2011

Grab Her Look: Michelle Williams

To say I love Michelle Williams in Marie Claire's February issue is an understatement. She is one of those rare stars to carry a bit of mystique about themselves, which I admire. In this photo spread she is simply stunning with a fresh, platinum pixie cut - a far cry from her extension donning Hollywood peers - and vintage, glamorous style. Truly beautiful.


1. Urban Outfitters top 2. CHLOE chiffon blouse 3. Romeo for Bluefly blouse 4. Tibi silk top 5. Miu Miu heels 6. Prada heels 7. YSL heels 8. TypeZ heels

Selasa, 18 Januari 2011

Objects

I am essentially the antithesis of a hoarder. I've always had issues with clutter; if something doesn't have a place or purpose I just cannot handle it. My fear of exorbitant amounts of objects combined with my mildly obsessive tendencies when it comes to germs and cleaning have meshed quite nicely over the years- truly creating the perfect marriage of crazy in my own right. Aren't we all a little, though? I recently read something along the lines that we are all crazy, it's just a matter of to what extent. But I digress: objects. Yes, objects. While I am still not entirely comfortable with miscellaneous things of the sort adorning every surface of my house, I am growing fonder of having more of them with a purpose in mind, which is why this beautiful Hallie Burton photoshoot caught my eye.

Senin, 17 Januari 2011

Party Pretty

photo by Lo Bjurulf

Did you happen to catch the Golden Globe Awards last night? While the show itself is a bit mundane, it's the loveliness of couture strutting across the red carpet that I cannot get enough of. I myself was dressed to 'perfection' in Banana Republic pajamas; fancied up ever-so-slightly with a strand of pearls and a vintage cocktail ring. A sore sight, really. Every year I toss around the idea of throwing a party for one of the shows during awards season, at which time I would most definitely dress up (although a 'pajamas and pearls' theme does sound tempting). A few strands of glitter-tasseled garland, a pink tulle party dress, and the perfect pair of suede sequined booties would certainly be the perfect touch to any such gathering, don't you think?

[Confetti System garland, Sarah Seven dress, Rosie True heels]

Here's to a fabulous week ahead...

Jumat, 14 Januari 2011

A Miscellaneous Weekend


I revel in weekends filled with a hodgepodge of activities that take place with no rhyme or reason. Delightedly, my next few days shall be exactly so. Although the weather in Los Angeles is supposed to reach nearly 80 degrees (please no hate mail- hehe) most of the things I have planned will take place indoors: writing thank you notes, catching up on my magazine/book stack, and finding a new recipe to create in the kitchen aid. I will, however, venture out to Farmer's Market for a new bundle of fresh flowers and maybe, if it's on the way (which it's not), take a drive by the beach to soak up some much needed vitamin D.

-Thank you to my bestie Heather for the '50 fashion designers...' book above. So excited to read it-

Hope you have a wonderful weekend :) Any fun plans?!

Kamis, 13 Januari 2011

Will you be my boyfriend?

As I walked around the Melrose Trading Post last weekend I noticed a lot of girls wearing 'boyfriend' jeans. I have a few pairs myself from J.Crew that I wear more often than not while lounging around the house because they are extremely comfortable. After seeing how cute they look paired with a few snazzier pieces, I am officially graduating my pairs to outside wear.


1. JOSEPH sweater 2. Milly blouse 3. DAY Birger et Mikkelsen blouse 4. Current Elliott jeans 5. French Connection jeans 6. Current Elliott jeans 7. Stuart Weitzman pumps 8. Kate Spade flats 9. Stuart Weitzman flats 10. Juicy Couture flats

Selasa, 11 Januari 2011

Because life is better...

...when baubles and pearls are readily available.

...with sparkle nail polish to assist in finding your playful side in the midst of a chaotic world.

...when your bedside is filled with those you love to remind you of their beautiful presence.

Have a nice evening :)

*Update* to answer a few email questions:
The necklaces are J.Crew and the nail polishes are 'Only Gold For Me' and 'Metro Chic'- both Sephora by OPI.

Jumat, 07 Januari 2011

DIY: Tiny Bunting Favors

My heart skipped a tiny beat when I saw these dainty and sweet party bunting favors. What nicer way to say thank you to party guests than letting them take home a small decoration for their own celebrations. These would also be cute attached to a birthday gift, sent to a friend as a get well, or just to have on hand when the mood for a little sprucing up strikes.


Have a fabulous weekend. Any fun plans?!

[photos by Carly Taylor via]


Kamis, 06 Januari 2011

Winter Blues

I always feel a bit empty inside after the holiday decorations come down. The corner where the tree sat looks abandoned; the mantle devoid as it's sparsely placed traditional pieces settle in for their long, 11-month stay ahead. While I could easily keep the glittery gold and deep red decor for another month or two, I know it is time to move on. I like the idea of having 'transitional decoriations' that assist in delicately filling the once themed space, which is why this beautifully designed winter party caught my eye.


I love how they used the backyard despite the snow. It makes for a gorgeous backdrop!

[photos via Sköna hem]

Rabu, 05 Januari 2011

Homemade Chocolate "Peanut" Butter Cups - Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Soy Free, Nut Free Desserts

-life is just better with a sprinkle of sea salt settled into melted chocolate-

I've posted allergy-friendly chocolate peanut butter cups before, but when the mood struck yesterday for a new batch, I didn't have a lot of the ingredients on hand. So I improvised (these are gluten/dairy/soy- free as well). I had bought some Reese's shaped candy molds at an outlet mall kitchen store that I've been wanting to use, and I had a bag of Enjoy Life chocolate chips plus peanut butter, so I just went for it. I was anxious and giddy the whole time; desperately hoping my experiment wouldn't fail because once I get a craving, there is no turning back.

I'm happy to report that they were delicious.

Click below for recipe



The process was simple, although I'd recommend clearing a space in your freezer because you'll be in and out of there quite a bit. I'll try to make these directions as easy as the process was:

-1 bag of chocolate chips (Enjoy Life are dairy/soy/gluten/nut- free and yummy)
-1/2 cup of your favorite nut butter - I use sunbutter
-1/3 cup powdered sugar
-candy molds of any kind
-kitchen brush

Directions:
-Melt the chocolate chips.
-Use a kitchen brush and paint the inside of the candy molds with the chocolate. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer until chocolate hardens. about 10 min
-In a small bowl, mix nut butter with powdered sugar.
-Take chocolate cups out of freezer and place a dollop of nut butter mixture in the middle of each. Freeze until the nut butter is firm. about 30 min
-Take them out and using your brush, paint the tops with more melted chocolate. Have fun w/ them and sprinkle some sea salt or other crushed topping.
-And - you guessed it - back to the freezer they go. about 5 min
-Remove from freezer, peel away candy molds (they should come off rather easy) and enjoy!

Store in an airtight container in fridge for up to 1 week.

Senin, 03 Januari 2011

Who Says You Can't Go Home...

My parents grew up in the most spectacular place: a small and quaint, tree-lined town that is nestled in a larger yet equally as beautiful city. You almost transport back in time while visiting, as shaded streets, sidewalk cafes, manicured lawns, and even the occasional doggie bowl outside a coffee shop all welcome you with open arms. It's as if time has evolved at a much slower, more rational pace than everywhere else. While advancements in places throughout the decades seem necessary, it's nice to know some towns still exist as they always have.


PS. K just told me that my post title is bad today! Ha! I cannot keep up with these things. I'm in a post title rut, sorry :/