Filed under: Destination Inspiration | Tags: bracelet, cherry blossom, clutch, DC, dress, heels, Washington
It’s Cherry Blossom Festival time in DC and despite the fanny pack+capri pant+croc wearing tourists that seem to invade the city, it’s actually one of my favorite times of year to be in DC! Luckily the stock market is closed on Friday so I have a day off and since Z’s parents are in town for Easter we’ll be able to see take a walk down to the tidal basin with them and enjoy the cherry blossoms during peak bloom!
(via we heart it)
And since no destination is complete without an outfit to go with it, how about this fun floral number…
Matthew Williamson Floral-print Silk Tunic Dress, YSL New Arty Bracelet, Marc by Marc Jacobs Linda Bow-embellished Leather Clutch, DKNY Elena Strappy Leather Sandals
Don’t forget to enter the Rent the Runway gift card giveaway and help me pick which dress to wear!
Christian Louboutin Lafalaise 110 Cork Sandals
I didn’t really know how badly I NEEDED turquoise wedges until I came across these on theOutnet’s big Louboutin sale last week – but seriously, I couldn’t resist! I’m super busy this week with a number of events (and trying to decide what to wear!), but hopefully this 80+ degree weather this week will give me an excuse to break out these pretties! I’m kind of wishing I could afford a whole closet full of new dresses for the next couple months, but since that’s not exactly in the budget – Rent the Runway might just be my savior!
I’m sure many of you have heard of this awesome site, but in case you haven’t, Rent the Runway (invite here) allows you to browse a number of designer dresses and rent them at affordable prices (starting at $50) for a period of 4 or 8 days. Not sure what size you are for a particular designer? No sweat – with Rent the Runway you can rent 2 sizes for no additional charge! (Or if you’re like me and need options, you can rent a backup dress for only $25!) I can’t count the number of times I’ve talked myself into buying a new dress for a special occasion saying, “of course I’ll wear this again.” But of course that never happens (I mean, not when EVERYONE has already seen the dress…). The icing on the cake – when you’re done renting a dress, all you have to do is pop it in the envelope provided, drop it in a mailbox and they take care of the dry cleaning.
One of the events I have coming up next month is a “festive cocktail” soiree at an art gallery and I’ve been looking for the perfect little cocktail dress to rock, but of course everything I love is a bit out of my price range at the moment… luckily, Rent the Runway is coming to my rescue and providing me with a dress but I NEED your help deciding which dress to wear! I’ve narrowed down my picks to the following:
1) Thread Social Fairytale Dress (I’ve expressed my love for this before)
2) Tuleh Leopard Print Ruched Mini (I’m not usually that big on animal print, but this is so pretty!)
3) Catherine Malandrino Tribal Beading Mini (this beading detail is INSANE)
3) Hervé Léger Stormy Skies Bandage Dress (Hervé Léger, need I say more?)
There are so many fun options on Rent the Runway, it was hard to narrow it down! For those of you who are now lusting for a pretty dress to wear at an event of your own, Rent the Runway has agreed to provide 3 lucky Wonderfelle readers with a $25 gift card towards a rental of a dress of your own!
Giveaway Rules:
- For one entry, leave a comment letting me know which dress you think I should choose!
- For a second entry, leave a comment telling me about an event you have coming up, browse the options at Rent the Runway and tell me which dress you are dying to wear.
- For a third (or fourth) entry, blog or tweet (@wonderfelle) about this giveaway linking back to this post.
(Separate comments for each entry, please!)
Entries will be accepted until midnight Friday, April 2nd and I’ll announce the winners next week, good luck!
Filed under: Destination Inspiration | Tags: Brazil, dress, earrings, heels, hotel, rings, Sandals, swimwear
I mentioned last week I got a Brazillian Blowout and am thrilled with the results… I have really thick, wavy hair that I love (thanks mom), but it’s usually kind of a pain to deal with – I used to spend 45min to an hour towel-drying, blow-drying, flat-ironing to get it mostly straight, shiny, and smooth. More and more recently I found myself too tired to put any effort into this process but seriously regretted it all day when I felt my hair was frizzy (especially with all the rain we’ve been having, ick!). Anyway, I had heard really great things about the Brazillian Blowout – unlike Japanese straightening which uses chemicals that damage the hair to make it straight – this treatment is semi-permanent but utilizes a nutrient complex that actually repairs damage and creates a protective protein layer around the hair shaft and smooths the cuticle. Seriously it’s kind of amazing, check out these before/after pictures. Most importantly, I have more time for myself – I’ve put away my flat iron, I let my hair mostly air dry then take about 5min at the end to blow dry it straight (even if I don’t blow dry at the end its smooth and super shiny). I’ll spare you any more raving and get to the destination… Brazil obviously!
Years ago when I was living in Buenos Aires, my bff (who’s part Brazilian) was studying in Sao Paolo at the time so we decided to meet in Rio de Janeiro for a few days of sun and fun. We actually stayed at a little hotel right at the end of Copacabana so it was an easy little walk to Ipanema. But since real life isn’t as fun as Wonderfelle life, let’s pretend we stayed at the Fasano Rio de Janeiro because it’s kinda amazing…
I keep going back to this modern, elegant but welcoming aesthetic. I can’t help it… I’m drawn to clean lines and comforting simplicity.
Pucci Cotton-voile Printed Dress, Kenneth Jay Lane Glass-Pearl Ring, Stella McCartney Metallic Brad-detail Flats
In theory I love me a freestanding tub… and anywhere I can lounge with a cold beverage and tapas with an ocean view is a little piece of heaven.
Emamo Geisha Triangle Bikini, Tara Matthews Beaded Bikini
Living in a city, I’m all too familiar with rooftop pools… but a rooftop pool with this view? Not. Fair.
DVF Calida Strapless Printed Dress, Marni Swarovski Crystal Horn Earrings, Lanvin Braided Satin Sandals (I’m dying for this outfit. And a reason to wear it. Dying.)
I just checked my passport and my Brazilian travel visa is good for 5 years… which means this is the last year to use it before it expires… so who wants to take me on a trip? Pretty pleaaaase?
I think, this week I’m loving aqua and coral-pink :)
Hand-stiched embroidered tunics and white linen shorts might become my summer staples ($50)
These embellished flats will be perfect with flowy dresses ($40)
I NEED to add this Joomie NYC Blue Hematite ring to my collection ($50)
A pretty paisley skirt that’s definitely worth the price ($19)
Ah the weekend was so perfectly relaxing I’m not quite ready for Monday… and it looks like the rain is back, boo. On another note, the H&M in Tysons had a number of pieces from the Garden Collection out early (wasn’t it supposed to be out the 25th?) but I was underwhelmed… mostly because they didn’t have any of the pieces I was really excited about I guess, but in case you were planning to pounce on this collection you might want to stop by your nearest store to see if they already have some items out!
The lovely Jessica of Style Obsession tagged me to share the contents of my bag – I love seeing these posts on other people’s blogs and I’ve secretly wanted to do one myself so here ya go!
The Bag:
Gucci Tote (circa 2007 I think)
The Contents:
Chanel sunnies, Blackberry Storm, Chanel makeup bag (holding.. travel size brush, Rosebud Minted Rose lip balm, Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips in Brandi, Japanese Cherry Blossom hand sanitizer, Rohto eye drops, and travel size Vera Wang Princess – because I AM a princess), Dolce Vita Flora Gold Leather Flats, umbrella (the print is different dress forms and dresses), card case.
I switch bags a lot, so I like to keep clutter to a minimum… but I’m always prepared for sunshine or rain and I always carry a pair of flats since I walk everywhere. Also, I don’t crew gum (hate the way it feels in my mouth) but I usually have a little sweet snack with me because I get headachey when I haven’t had one in awhile!
I’d tag some of you lovelies, but I feel like a lot of people have already shared the contents of their bags… but if you haven’t please do!
I’m in a fantastic mood! Possibly because it was 70 degrees and sunny today. Possibly because I got a Brazillian blowout after work and my hair is super shiny. Possibly because I came home to a package from Target and a mac & cheese dinner. Possibly because I’m doing well in my March Madness bracket even though I hastily made last minute picks. Possibly because the weekend’s almost here, the weather’s supposed to stay nice, and I have a Saturday afternoon shopping date planned with my sister!
I’ve had a serious case of the winter “blahs” so I’m pretty much blaming the beginning of spring for my cheerier-that-usual self (we’ll see how long until my allergies start up…) but for whatever reason(s) it feels good :)
Speaking of the weekend… how awesome is the turquoise Womens Weekender Bag from Etsy shop Magpie Accessories?! I kinda wanna be this girl, wings and all.
I love this Unisex Messenger Bag too – perfectly distressed, and just big enough to schlep my MacBook around in…
I actually like the Womens Signature Tote Bag better in metallic/aubergine, but I love that this bag and her vintage dress match the umbrella in this picture!
Happy weekend everyone ;)
(Oh also, I have a few Liberty of London for Target dresses that I’m returning because they didn’t fit – anyone else find the sizing way big?! Small sizes are sold out online (and in most stores I believe) so if anyone’s interested let me know ASAP because I’m probably going to return at Target on Sunday!)
Filed under: Destination Inspiration | Tags: dress, heels, hotel, Maison Moschino, Milan
I’m particularly intrigued by this week’s destination – the Maison Moschino in Milan is something like a surrealist fairytale come to life inside a neo-classical railway station turned hotel… It’s a little “what were they thinking?!” but in a good way… I’ll just let the photos speak for themselves:
Welcome sheep, dress lamps, and giant popcorn hanging from the ceiling?!
Moschino Wool Sweater Dress, Moschino Suede Wedges
Moschino Cheap & Chic Printed Silk-Chiffon Dress, Moschino Laser Cut Pumps (so pretty!)
Apparently I’m really feeling trees this week… this would kinda be like waking up in an enchanted forest of sorts, how whimsical!
Moschino Silk-Chiffon Ruffle Dress, Moschino Snakeskin Sandals
Moschino Cheap & Chic Floral Blouse (let’s just pretend its a dress), Moschino Cheap & Chic Nude Pumps
Literally a bed of roses, how fun! Also haven’t we seen these red rose chairs before?!
Love Moschino Crepe Dress, Moschino Laser Cut Platform Sandals
Love Moschino Gauze Lame Dress, Moschino Shoe Boots (hello perfect oxford shoe boots!)
Soo… would yall stay here?! It’s not exactly the hotel of my dreams, but it would definitely be a memorable experience!
DC weather in the 60′s this week, woohoo!
A pretty pink scarf adds a perfect pop of color ($12)
I can’t get enough of turquoise jewelry (or turquoise anything!) right now ($30)
Python print pumps are a fun twist to basic nude ($45)
Florals, for spring. Groundbreaking ($15)
So three things on Tuesdays is apparently now four… what can I say, I like things even.
I’ve been toying with the idea of using wall decals to decorate one of the walls in my apartment. I like that they’re relatively easy to install but can make a big statement on a budget. Since I’m just renting and not sure how long I’ll stay in this unit, I don’t want to invest a ton on wall decor… For some reason I’m drawn to simple trees with bare branches – which is a little strange since organic, modern simplicity isn’t exactly how I’d describe my style…
My first thought was using these trees from Surface Filk behind the couch in my living room. Currently the walls are a neutral color and completely bare but I like the way these trees fill the space and give the area more definition.
Or… I like the way these trees from OrqueShaw’s Walldecors create a headboard-like effect behind the bed. I’m not really a fan of the birds (thankfully they’re optional) but I think a darker color tree would really pop against the iceberg light blue of my bedroom walls.
What do yall think? Trees in the living room or in the bedroom?
Somewhat unrelated, but I’m kinda digging the tree print on this Rozae by Rozae Nichols dress.
Filed under: Destination Inspiration | Tags: Cambodia, cardigan, dress, heels, hotel, Hotel de la Paix, Sandals, Siem Reap, skirt, swimwear, tank
I’ve been dyyying to share this hotel since I came across it on Mr. and Mrs. Smith last week because it looks absolutely AMAZING. Admittedly, I’m not particularly familiar with Siem Reap, although apparently it’s a pretty popular tourist destination if you happen to be headed to Cambodia… and if that’s the case you really have no excuse to not stay at the Hotel de la Paix. Dubbed “a cool and calming oasis amongst the eclectic surrounds of Siem Reap,” this 5 star hotel certainly looks ideal for a relaxing getaway…
Ancient Khmer influences meet modern art deco elements throughout the hotel design, while understated elegance sets the underlying tone… well that and the Buddha Bar tunes preloaded on your complimentary iPod. Seriously.
Let’s just pretend you’re jetsetting off to Seim Reap – and since you’re fabulous of course you’ll want to enjoy your welcome cocktails in style… Maxi dress + cardi wrap = my fave travel combination. (I’d also like to take this opportunity to voice my strong belief that it is NOT OK to wear pjs/sweatpants/uggs when you’re traveling. I will never really understand this. Never.)
T-Bags Embellished Jersey Dress, K Karl Lagerfeld Jersey Cardigan, Chloe Cork Wedge Sandals
The hotel pool is this stunning moat-like body of water… Click here for a full screen panorama, it’s completely dreamy.
I’m loving the modern look of the Arts Lounge where you can feast your eyes on some Cambodian art and even enjoy tea time (with a twist)!
Calvin Klein Jersey Tank, Elizabeth & James Sequin Skirt (LOVE!), Tory Burch Liotta Cotton Jacket, Miu Miu Patent Leather Slingbacks (NEED!)
I have a feeling this courtyard is where magic happens…
If you’re lucky you can snag one of 3 loungy swing chairs (err, beds?) and feast on authentic Khmer curry while admiring the pretty people. Because apparently this is where they hang out.
Miu Miu Iris-print Jersey T-Shirt Dress, Zimmermann Gitana Printed Bikini, Jimmy Choo Phoenix Espadrilles
And of course, the guest rooms don’t disappoint! (Check out these duplexes too)
Totally cheesy but this looks like the stage for my ideal date… massages, a glass of wine while enjoying the dipping pool, and dinner for 2. I die, happily.
Oh and did I mention rooms here start around $300 per night? Not bad considering this place was €1745 per person, per night… And that makes me want to cry.
