fall favorites

Now that it's the tail end of October (!!), I thought it more than appropriate to share with you some of the favorite items I keep wearing time and again. I know when I have something that is a "favorite" when I seem to reach for it weekend after weekend (my Monday - Friday wears are far less fun. Business dress is a snooze). Here are three each of accessories, tops, pants, and shoes that I'm wearing constantly.  Most of which I was able to pick up over the past few months on sale!

Side note: Sorry for the long explanations, but I just can't be one of those bloggers who slaps up a nice collage and then doesn't tell you why she likes each item. The personal account makes it so much better, in my opinion.

accessories :::  bag // earrings // necklace //
→ I'm just in love with this bag. It can go from day to night, is large enough to actually hold all your stuff, can be worn as a cross body or a shoulder bag and adds just enough oomph to a basic sweater/jeans combo. 

→Earrings with cool backs (are these called something besides "earrings with cool backs?") seem to be popping up everywhere. I love the contrast of the sophisticated pearls with the funkier look.

→ I seem to be gravitating towards longer pendants over larger statement necklaces. They seem more effortless. And this one goes with everything.

tops :::  tee // poncho // workout top

→ So weird to fall in love with a t-shirt at Ann Taylor of all places. I actually discovered their tees when I grabbed one to try on with some pants and quickly realized it had the perfect neckline, length, hem, and weight. I have the black and white stripe (on sale!) and plan to get a few solids to put to work as layering pieces this winter.

→ Ponchos are the thing for fall. I've had a hard time finding a good one that doesn't look like I just draped the afghan from my couch over my shoulders. The length on this one is perfect for jeans or leggings and the neutral colors will go well with any of fall's colors.

→ To be honest, I spend most of my weekends in workout gear, running errands after spin class/yoga/barre (or sometimes I put it on so that I will work out when all I end up doing is just running errands). This top makes me feel a little more pulled together than walking around in a sloppy old t-shirt, and bonus points for thumb holes!

pants :::  track pants // jeans // leather leggings

→ Track pants are also another must have for the season. And while it took me awhile to come around to them, I'm now hooked. I mean, why wouldn't you choose an elastic waist rather than tight jeans? Loving this green color for fall and the touch of leather at the top.

→ Nothing fits me like Madewell's skinny skinny jeans. They come up high enough in the waist so you can bend over without flashing people, there's enough stretch that you can get several wears out of them before washing, and I'm loving this wash for fall.

→ My sister called me last weekend and asked what was the one thing she needed for fall. My answer - leather leggings. You may think they're not for you, but hear me out. It's really the only kind of legging you can wear in public and not look like you just woke up/worked out/came off an overnight flight. Dress them up with heels and a top or down with flats and an oversize sweater. And if you can't pull off full leather, Ann Taylor also has a great pair that are leather in the front and ponte in the back.

shoes :::  booties // heels // sneakers

→ The only bootie you need this fall. I love them in the tan suede - goes with black or brown. The short heel is perfect for all-day wear and I like that they don't come up too high on the ankle. 

→ I'm obsessed with these pumps. They look ten times more expensive and that maroon is just the best little pop of color with all of the neutrals that dominate the season. And they are so comfortable. Seriously, if you haven't tried the new shoes at Banana, go - they are so squishy!

→ Hands down the one pair of shoes I've worn most so far this fall. With my leather leggings or my jeans these slip on sneakers are so cool. An the army print really does go with everything, even other patterns (like stripes - my favorite pattern of late).

Anything catch your eye?  What are you wearing the most so far this fall? 

{image © The Rose Record}

most-used kitchen tools

Whenever my friends ask advice about registering for kitchen items, I always mention these five tools. They're kind of like my little secret weapons. I'm all, "Sure you want the Calphalon pans, but have you heard about this knife sharpener!? I mean, it's the best." I find myself using these gadgets over and over again, some of them daily! They might be cheap and seem under-whelming, but let me tell you, they will make your life in the kitchen very easy. Bonus points for not just being affordable, but small enough to tuck into a drawer. 

{1} Flex Edge Beater - The beater that came with my stand mixer was just not cutting it. It left a ton of unmixed batter at the bottom of the bowl. There are now several types of beaters out that have a rubber edge that scrapes the bowl and are coated in enamel for long wear (and dishwasher safe!). Tip: Check your stand mixer model before purchasing. 

{2} Mini Whisk - I buy these for just about every wedding gift. I tie them in with the ribbon after I wrap the present, not only because it looks cute, but also because it is so useful! If you're just scrambling a few eggs in a measuring cup, or want to quickly foam up some milk, this is the best! Perfect for those small but frequent jobs.

{3} Citrus Squeezer - Let no lemon seed get in your lemon juice again! You don't need some massive piece of equipment to get the most juice from your citrus. Cut your lemon/lime/orange in half, stick in in this gadget and press down. Tons of juice; no seeds or pulp. Just what you needed for your hot water with lemon routine.

{4} Garlic Press - I hate mincing garlic. It sticks to my knife, gets my cutting board and hands all smelly, and generally just annoys me. Not a problem with this garlic press. Place your clove in it, flip the handle over and watch the garlic get perfectly minced and fall right into your dish. Easy! Tip: It's worth the extra few bucks for a metal version. You need that extra heft from the metal. Plastic won't cut it here.

{5} Knife Sharpener - Put down that huge metal stick thing and carving stone. They are not needed (and not safe!).  This guy is all you'll ever need to keep your knives in tip top shape. It's cheap. It's fool proof. It has a hand guard. Need I say more? I've had mine for five years and it still works wonders. I'll never use anything else. Tip: Rinse your knife after sharpening to prevent sharp metal flecks in your food.

Now run, don't walk to your nearest Amazon store. Er... you know what I mean. Add these five tools to your cart/registry/wish list right now. You can thank me later.

P.S. These would also make great stocking stuffers for all you crazy people who are already thinking about Christmas shopping.

{image © The Rose Record}

how to: pack for the park

New Yorkers have a little secret when it comes to spending the day in one of the many parks the city has to offer. The secret is that we're master packers. We don't lug huge wagons full of coolers or wrangle giant wicker picnic baskets (although if we did, I'd get this pretty one.). The emphasis is on packing the park essentials into one bag so that you can easily go from subway to park to errands to rooftop drinks. No bulky blankets here; the ultimate New Yorker knows that a bed sheet is the best picnic blanket - light to carry, easy to wash, and you can buy a single flat sheet for cheap! Here are some of the other essentials we pack when we spend a day at the park.

Tote → It's got to be large enough to hold your supplies, but pretty enough to travel around the city with you. Rainbow chevron seems to do the trick nicely (rats, it's now sold out at J.Crew. This striped one is a nice alternative.)

Blanket → A flat bed sheet (preference for polka dots) is your best friend here. Large enough to seat several adults and dogs. And thin enough to fold up into a tight little square and toss in your tote.

Reading Material → On my list for this summer: endless back issues of Cooking Light that my mom brought me, the new Porter magazine, and Molly Wizenberg's new book.

Tunes → This iphone speaker is made of silicone so you don't have to worry about breaking it. No batteries required.

Water Supply → For humans (with an insert you can freeze to keep your water cool!). And for pooches (folds up flat!).

Dog Tether → We just ordered this easy screw in tether for Lily. Now we don't have to hold on to her leash while we picnic, but she's still safe and secure near our spot.

Sun Protection → Ain't no wrinkles on this face! This is the only sunscreen I like. It doesn't feel greasy and goes on evenly. And it's quick, which means less embarrassment for Al when I spray it all over his face. ☺

Eye Protection → These are the latest pair of shades that I'm coveting. Everyone looks cooler in aviators, right? Especially polarized lenses with beautiful gold rims.

Snacks → There are few places I go without snacks. The park is not one of them. You can quickly lose cash on dirty water hot dogs and pretzels if you're not prepared. We're still loving our Nature Box goodies. We toss a few in our bag on our way out the door.

And THAT's how you picnic like a pro!

shopbop sale

The internet is a buzz at this season's friends and family sale on Shopbop. Shopbop carries so many of my favorite designers, it's too good of a deal not to snag something. Here's what I have in my cart right now. I still need to narrow down my list to what I really need. ;) 

All items 25% off with code INTHEFAMILY14.

Tibi Crop Top and Midi Skirt // Equipment Silk Blouse // Tory Burch Tunic // Mara Hoffman Bikini Top and Bottom // Diane von Furstenberg Dress // Tory Burch Flats // Marc by Marc Jacobs FRENCHIE clutch // Marc by Marc Jacobs Wedges

Happy shopping!
xo,
K

P.S. I tried on that DVF dress. It fits like a glove, let me tell ya.

{image © The Rose Record}

spring shopping

One of my favorite parts of shopping ever since I was young was afterwards, when I would go home and show my dad/roommate/Al all my good finds.  My dad would nod politely, my roommate from college, Caitlyn, would "oohh and ah" along with me, and Al is pretty complimentary (after asking how much I spent).  

I'm the same way with my friends. If I know they had a big shopping trip I make them tell me everything they got in detail and how they're going to wear each piece. Does anyone else do this or is just me? 

True to form, once I arrived back in NYC, I presented Al all of my goodies.  And again yesterday, I found myself going item by item with my friend Ashley as we collaborated when and how I could wear each piece. So I thought, why not share with you too? Here's what I loved, some (not all!) of which I purchased, on my shopping days in Kansas City. Kind of funny how I can basically build an entire wardrobe out of Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Madewell. I also think I'm one of the few people who travels from NYC to KC to shop!

Hoping these outfits inspire you to jazz up your own spring wardrobes!

•••••

#1:  From Office to Date Night:

Top / Pants / Bag / Pumps / Gloss / Earrings

^^^I'm so glad I found a pair of trendy slouchy pants! Can't wait to wear these on the weekends (they're probably a little too informal for my office with the elastic waist band and all). The silk top is a no-brainer for work and can be done for evenings simply by changing the accessories.  And how fantastic is that perforated blue bag? Will be wearing that constantly. Oh! And that's the lip gloss I was talking about in the weekend recap. It's a bright fuchsia and I'll be replacing my standard red lipstick for it this spring and summer. And finally, SJP shoes for Nordstrom. Bless her.

#2:  From Easter to Showers:

Blouse / Skirt / Shoes / Bag / Necklace

^^^ I saw this pleated skirt in the catalog and knew it had to be mine. I love the playfulness of it along with the classic colors.  Pair it with one of spring's pretty pastels, a statement bag, and beautiful sandals and you have your go-to look for Easter, wedding showers, and other spring  fêtes.

#3:  From Brunch to the Park:

Sweater / Jeans / Sneakers / Sunglasses / Hat

^^^ Behold, my weekend outfit from now until it turns 80 degrees. I love the mix of the feminine coral sweater (but with edgy shoulder zips) and boyish destroyed denim, hat, and sneakers. Oh, and those are a new SLIP ON converse. They have elastic at the back and a smaller area that covers the top of your foot so you can keep them unlaced and not walk out of them. I can't tell you how revolutionary this is. Can't wait to sport my Baldwin KC hat all over the city this spring. Hides my dirty hair and makes one step closer to being more like Olivia Wilde.

•••••

I hope you enjoyed my post-shopping share as much as I did. It's so fun to talk about your finds. What are you excited about that you purchased recently? Happy shopping and happy (almost) spring!

xoxo,

K

{polyvores by me}

spring dreaming

The high for today is 29°. The HIGH. It's currently snowing. It is by no means springtime. But that doesn't keep me from day dreaming of the warmer days ahead (soon, I hope!). After browsing the new arrivals at Terrain (don't you just love Terrain?), it was pretty easy for my mind to wander to a charming little garden party with sunshine, a pretty table, soft colors, milky glass, and cute miniature plants. Come join me in my dream world. I'm having a spring time party and it's way better than this cold day.

chalkboard arrow sign  //  mini topiary set  //  painted iron chair

glass pitcher  //  garden party straws  //  birdhouse

milk glass cake stands  //  washed linen napkin  //  eyelet tablecloth

Darling  little things, aren't they? Now if only I had access to a garden and weren't still sporting my Ugg Boots and puffy coat... At least a girl can (day) dream.

xoxo,
K

P.S. I have those napkins and topiaries in my cart for when spring does finally arrive. Or maybe I'll just dress my apartment up like it's spring and try and fool myself a little longer.

{polyvore by me.  all images from Terrain}
This post is NOT sponsored by Terrain. I legit just like their stuff!

five new favorites

I always know when it's time to share new things I'm loving when I find myself gushing about them to any and all people.  Here are five new favorites I just wont shut up about. Give them a try - you'll start telling everyone about them too.

1 - Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Lycra Flex Mascara

This stuff is amazing.  It leaves my lashes feeling natural all day long.  They don't get dry and break or get clumpy.  Just lots of volume and soft to the touch.  Even after applying a few coats.  I love the big fat brush too.  Perfect for the office when I don't want to look too made up.  $7

2 - Peeled Snacks Dried Mango

My sister got my mom hooked on these and my mom got me hooked.  They are the perfect snack when you would normally reach for something sweet.  They're only lightly dried so they're still chewy and full of flavor.  I go through at least a bag a week at work.  Light on the calories, high on the vitamins.  I feel good snacking on these.  $12

3 - Erin Condren Life Planner

I mentioned a little bit before about my new planner, but I need to rave again.  I've always been the type that needs to write things down.  Lists for days, calendars all over the place, sticky notes covering my desk.  Now everything is all in one place - our menus, our weekend plans, my bog schedule, reoccurring birthdays and anniversaries - it's all there. And I feel so. much. better.  I love how customizable they are too.  From your name (or a photo) on the cover, to additional pages and stickers, you can really make this work for you.  Go to take the tour of all the features.  I can't say enough great things.  $50

4 - Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

I just got this last night and immediately when home and played around with it.  First impression:  AWESOME.  I have really slick hair, so when I want my look to be a little more tousled and messy this stuff is gonna be handy.  I'm still testing out how to use it with my shorter look, but my friend Susan (who has fantastic hair) swears by this stuff.  I just got the small 2 ounce bottle to try, but I think I'll be going back for the big one very soon.  $22 / $42

5 - Barre3 Mobile App

Ten minute barre, Pilates, or yoga workouts on my phone?  Um yes please.  Now even if I'm exhausted when I get home, I can quickly do a quick core session from my living room (with Lily biting my socks off) and not feel so lazy. The app also has recipes, shopping lists, a place where you can book an in-studio class, and you can pick music from your own iTunes while you do the ten minute workouts!  My favorites so far are Park Bench Yoga Sculpt and No Props: Legs, Arms, Core + Stretch.  This app leaves me with no more excuses!  $5

Five new favorites to jump start your year.  What are you loving right now?

xoxo,

K

{graphic by me}

gift guide: for the guy

One week till Christmas!  It always seems that the guys on my Christmas list are the hardest.  But this year, I think I've found some great options.  This guide has something for every type of dude - from sporty to corporate to foodie to hipster, you can't miss with these twelve ideas...

Acrylic Block Picture Frames - Every man should have a picture of his lady on his desk. It's old school and sweet.  I love these picture frames because they're no fuss - just two acrylic blocks that snap together with magnets.  $16 - $20

Warby Parker Chamberlain Glasses - Glasses are the perfect cool-guy accessory (I love when Al wears his!).  Warby Parker frames have been on my radar for years - the shapes an colors are timeless and hip.  Unsure what frames to get for your guy?  They also has adorable gift cards* this year that can be sent in the mail with a fun 'make a snowman' kit.  That way your guy will still have a physical gift to open, and he'll have TONS of variety in glasses and sunglass frames from which to choose.  *E-gift cards are also available for you last minute people (not judging). $95 (includes anti-reflective prescription lenses)

Leather Phone Case + Wallet - Part money clip, part iphone case.  Now he has only one thing he needs to shove in the pocket of his skinny cords.  $40

Growler - Looks snazzy on a bar and the perfect vessel for him to transport his favorite seasonal ale.  Reminds me of this spot in my hometown where you could get growlers to go. Bonus points for the amazing Jay-Z reference.  $15

Baseball Cap - Not just for KC fans, this hat is from the cooler-than-cool Baldwin denim company.  Classic colors and lines and so cute that you might have to take a play from Olivia Wilde and borrow it from him occasionally.  $42

Bacon Gift Set - for those who believe bacon is it's own food group.  This gift set comes with a variety of bacon-flavored goodies that will have him in awe.  {drat, this is sold out!  It wasn't a few days ago when I wrote this post.  Sorry! But get a gift card, because it looks SO GOOD}

Oyster of the Month Club - For the ultimate food lover.  Fresh oysters delivered to his door each month.  Comes with a oyster knife and shucking glove too!  To me, this is the gift for the man who has everything.  So luxurious and unique! $100/month

Wool Knit Hat - This is the perfect winter hat. Enough slouch + enough warmth.  Love the chunky knit in two colors that go with everything.  $42

Backgammon Set - Bring back an old classic with this luxe printed backgammon set.  Easy to pack up in the car for road trips or a cozy night at home.  Additionally, it would look lovely set out in a den or beach house.  I know my dad would love this since he loves games that don't involve an iphone. ;)    $195 (25% off with code CHEER25)

Whiskey Book - A history lesson in whiskey along with directions for making his own. From the founders of New York City's Kings County Distillery.  Great in a library, even better at the bar.  $15.78

Pour Over Coffee Kit - For the true coffee fans.  From Brooklyn's Sumptown Cofee, this kit has everything he needs to begin and learn the pour over coffee technique.  He can be a little chemist in the kitchen and you get the benefit of tasting the final product.  $120

Puffer Vest - If your guy is anything like mine, he's over-heated even in the coldest of temps.  This warm, insulated vest is the perfect solution.  Core stays warm, but he's not covered up entirely.  Love the coffee brown color - would go so well over all those plaid shirts he has. ;)  $160

Now, quick!  Go snag these before they're gone.

Happy shopping!

xoxo,

K

P.S.  This year's gift guide for the hostess & for the lady

P.P.S. Last year's gift guides:  for the lady, for the gent, for the hostess, for the pooch, for the stocking.

gift guide: for the lady

If you recall, I've already confessed to my tardiness with all things Christmas this year.  For those of you who haven't finished you're shopping yet, here are fifteen things any lady in your life would love to receive.  I've even gone as far as to check that none of these are sold out or on back order (yet). Surely you'll be able to cross a few off your list with these ideas...

City Prints - These adorable illustrations are available in just about every city.  From Florence to Kansas City to Paris to Minneapolis.  A cute way to remember where you're from or where you've been.  And a great addition to a gallery wall or an office.  $30 - $35

Sperry for J.Crew Snow Boots - If it is going to snow this winter as much as it has in the past week, we had all better think about our footwear.  Functional + a cute pop of color.  A must-have to last for many winters to come.  $150 (30% off with code GIFTNOW)

Crystal Block Ring Trio - I love these stacked on a pointer finger.  Adds a cute edge and detail to an everyday look.  Funky, but cute.  Just how I like it.  $32

Angora Beanie - A luxurious touch for outerwear.  I tried this on in store-and it made even my awkward shaped head look cute.  Everyone needs a winter hat, and a chic one at that.  $69

Pave Link Bracelet - Looks a lot like the J.Crew one I've coveted for the past year, but at about half the price.  Beautiful all on it's own, or layered with others.  I'm obsessed with it, to be honest.  $69 (use code HOLIDAY40 to save 40%!)

Agate Box - I've been a fan of agate for a while (mostly thanks to this post).  This would be beautiful as a jewelry box on a vanity, or to hold small goods on a desk.  Or even on top of a stack of books on a shelf.  I'm in love.  It's also apparently one of Oprah's Favorite Things this year!  $39 - $63

Three Herb Wreath - This isn't your average holiday wreath.  Leave this up near the kitchen for both decor and function.  You can pick the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves and use them in your cooking all year long!  Genius!  $48

Holla Door Mat - This makes me smile every time I look at it.  No better way to great your guests, if you ask me.  'HOLLA!' $50

Monogram Leather Cosmetic Bags - I'm from the school of you-can-never-have-enough-cosmetic-bags.  I use them for everything - make up, manicure supplies, coupons, camera accessories, you name it.  I love the lux look of these and the very non-lux price.  (Also great as bridesmaids gifts for all you engaged ladies).  $18 - $28

Marc Jacobs Dot Fragrance - My friend Jolie got me on to this scent.  She wore it when she lived with us for two weeks and Al kept talking about how good she smelled. Ha!  It's a clean scent and not too floral.  And I love roller balls to shove into my bag for a touch up when I'm on the go.  $22

Pocket Umbrella - Similar to socks and underware, umbrellas should be gifted every Christmas.  I lose at least one a year.  This size is perfect for keeping in your bag at all times and the print is just adorable.  $26 (30% off with code GIFTNOW)

Bonjour Print - I know I already featured a print, but I love this one so darn much.  I love it propped up on a bedside table so every morning you can wake up with a little French flare. $35

Keepers Cookbook - This is the number one cookbook (or any book, for that matter) on my list this year.  The subtitle says it all "Two home cooks share their tried-and-true weeknight recipes and the secrets to happiness in the kitchen".  Anyone who cooks, even a little, will like this one.  $17

Sonia Kashuk Brush Set - I loved Sonia Kashuk's brushes for many, many years. They're very good, especially for the price.  And a ten piece set in a fun gold color?  Um yes, please. $30

Slate Cheese Board - From one of my places for gifts - the MoMA store, this cheese board is simple and elegant.  A piece of slate ready for your cheeses, crackers, and cute chalkboard labeling.  $32

If you don't know what to buy for the woman in  your life after that, then I'm not sure what to tell you.  Something for every one on your list, I think.  And for any family members reading, I'll be happy with any of the aforementioned suggestions.  :) 

Happy shopping!

xoxo,

K

P.S.  This year's gift guide for the hostess.

P.P.S. Last year's gift guides:  for the lady, for the gent, for the hostess, for the pooch, for the stocking.

{polyvore image by me}

gift guide: for the hostess

I know, I know, I'm behind on the whole gifting topic this year.  But, I'm a firm believer that we don't start thinking Christmas until Thanksgiving has passed.  So we have a week less this year to buy gifts - s'ok.  We have the internet.  And brains.  And maybe this year, we should make everything about Christmas less complicated.  Give one cute, thoughtful gift with a personal touch and call it good.  Here are my favorite ideas for hostess gifts (although, these would also be great for mom/mother-in-law, sister, aunt, teacher, boss, friend, nanny, etc.)  Bonus:  each of these is under $50.

Frasier Fir Candle :::  You guys know I love something when I put it to rhyme. This scent will always be on my holiday gift guides because it is the best.  They have a variety of sizes and prices for anyone on your list.  $28.00

Holiday Cocktail Napkins ::: From this adorable etsy shop made by this adorable lady. I love that they're not overtly Christmas-y so you can use them all winter long. I wish I would have had these at Friendgiving!  $13.50

Letterpress Recipe Box & Card::: Another etsy find.  I'm a firm believer that your favorite go-to recipes should still be written on cards, especially letterpress cards. This set is functional and would look darling on a counter top.  $17.00

Linen Embossed Notebook ::: Lately I've been carrying my meal planning notebook around with me and have started using it more like a journal/planner. Everyone needs a cute and blank notebook for planning, organizing, or brainstorming. This one is made in Denmark and is so beautifully simple.  $28.00

Monogrammed Leather Wine Tote ::: Add a little personalized touch when you gift a bottle of wine.  The tote is great for picnics, and I think it'd look pretty darn cute propped up on a bar cart as well.  $39.00

Crackled Coasters ::: These are like little gem stones you can put on your coffee table.  And they'd go with any decor - every space needs a pop of color.  I just keep looking at them, they're so pretty.  $24.00

You Wash, I'll Dry Dish Towels :::  How adorable are these?  Would be so cute for a newlywed couple.  And one can never have enough dish towels, am I right?  Roll these up and tie with a cute ribbon and your gifting and wrapping job is done. $35.00

Monogrammed Silverware Caddy ::: A must-have for gatherings of all sizes. Perfect for buffets, barbecues or even for other items than silverware (I use one for my make up!).  Nothing makes plastic silverware look cute besides a painted, monogrammed silverware caddy.  $42.00

Homemade Cookies ::: Save your money, and instead give the gift of sweets.  A celophane bag, cute ribbon, and your favorite baked good goes a long way.  I love giving these cookies because they are easy to make and have only five ingredients. $FREE (or the cost of ingredients - less than $10).

Monogrammed Letter Plate ::: I'm a sucker for anything with my initial on it (can't you tell).  These are great on an entry way console for keys, on a bed side table, on a bar, on an end table - the possibilities are endless.  And I love the fun colors and patterns.  $38.00

Happy gifting!  And I hope I'm not the only one who has just started my holiday shopping.

xoxo,

K

P.S.  Last year's gift guides:  for the lady, for the gent, for the hostess, for the pooch, for the stocking.

what i'm wearing: thanksgiving

For as long as I can remember, my sister and I have always had a mini panic attack the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.  "But mom, we have NOTHING to wear!", we would exclaim while she was elbows deep in our next day's turkey.  Maybe it was because we always wanted to look our best for our older cousins, whom we still idolize.  Or maybe it was just an excuse to have our mother drive us to Gap and buy us each a new sweater, two days before they would become 50% off. 

In all the preparation for Thanksgiving - the recipes, the grocery list, and the table decor, it is still easy to forget about what to wear.  There's also a little more thought that must go into the Thanksgiving outfit.  You want to look festive, but not too Christmas-y, and you want to be comfortable (hello food baby!), yet polished.  This year I think I've solved the problem perfectly.  Here's what I'll be wearing for this year's Thanksgiving Friendsgiving.

♥ Zara Ecru Angora Sweater (love the zipper detail on the back!)  //  Madewell Skinny Coated Denim in grassland (lots of strech for that big meal!)  //  Yellowsmith Amber Rose Bib Necklace  //  Madewell Stud Bangle //  Michael Kors Tortise Watch  //  Mac Lipstick in Viva Glam VI (the perfect neutral for fall) //  Madewell Billie Boot ♥

Happy early Thanksgiving!

xoxo,

K

yes to...

Are you a one-brand only type of person?  I often try new brands and then when I find something I like from a line, I'm quick to try their other stuff.  That's exactly what happened with my love of Yes To products.  It started with my fondness for their make-up removing towelettes which feel so good.  My face feels fresher than if I had washed it with water!  After I mentioned the make-up wipes in our Paris post, my friend Laura who works at Yes To sent me a big box of their stuff.  I mean, it was like my dream come true.  Honestly, I still haven't gotten around to trying everything she sent me (it was a lot!), but it was very clear from first use that I had some new favorites for my beauty line up.  Isn't it nice when a product does exactly what it says it will do on the packaging?  Plus they're all-natural, full of vitamins from fruits and veggies, and free of parabens and other bad stuff.   Here are my top five favorite Yes To products...

Yes To Carrots Intense Repair Hand Cream

This is hands down (ha!) the best hand lotion I've used in a long, long time.  It lasts forever and doesn't leave my keyboard with a coat of grease.  I have this out on my desk and everyone who walks by tries some and loves it.  A definite must for your handbag, car, desk, bedside table.

Yes To Carrots Color Balm - Soft Plum

I'm a sucker for tinted lip balms.  When I'm rushing out the door I don't have time to so several steps for my lips.  This balm is incredibly moisturizing and really softens and gets rid of those chapped little pieces.  Plus, it's the greatest color - a wine-kissed plum color that is perfect for fall.

Yes To Grapefruit Daily Facial Scrub

I think this one is my favorite favorite.  I've never understood it when facial products say they are "brightening".  I finally get it!  There's no better way to say it - this scrub literally leaves my face brighter!  All that dull, dead skin is polished away and my skin feels soft and new.  It's kind of like getting a facial every day.  I can't get enough of it.  Also, it smells good.

Yes To Grapefruit Dark Circle Correcting Eye Cream

Another one that I don't know how I lived without it.  Dark circles are genetic.  Plus I'm always tired.  I had just accepted that my dark circles would always be there.  But now!  Now they are less noticeable   That grapefruit is a super fruit, indeed.  It helps brighten the eye area and makes me look more awake. I use this after my moisturizer before my make up.  It makes me look alive.  I like that.

Yes To Blueberries Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

I'm almost 28, or is it 29?  Oh no, I'm at the age where I don't know my age.  Whatever.  The point is that I'm not in my early twenties anymore.  Wrinkle prevention is at the forefront of my beauty routine now and this night cream is perfect.  It's super rich and moisturizing, but free of any weird chemicals you often find in anti-aging products.  I don't really have deep wrinkles that need repair, but this has definitely softened those frown lines between my brows and the smile lines around my eyes.  And in the morning my skin plump and soft.  This is one I'll be using for a long, long time.

Another great thing about these products:  The first three are all less than $10 (the last two are both under $20).  All natural, they WORK, and reasonably priced?  Now there's a brand I can get behind.  Go give some Yes To stuff a try.  I know you'll love it.

xoxo,

K

Disclosure:  Yes to Carrots is not sponsoring this post.  They did not ask me to write this post, nor are they paying me for it.  My friend just sent me some stuff;  I liked it so I'm writing about it.  That's all!

{all images via the Yes To website}