Bridesmaids Party! (Pre-Party Post!)

Thursday, September 15, 2011


This weekend I'm hosting a Bridesmaids movie viewing party to celebrate the release of the movie on DVD*. (Have you seen it yet? Hilarious! Available September 20th!) As you may know,  theme parties are my favorite [proof, proof, proof] so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to go over the top on this out as well...Without revealing too much, I did want to share my inspiration board and some plans for the party (because naturally, I'm pretty pumped about it.)

Here's a sneak peek at the invites...


As guests are the most important component, I started with the inviations. Inspired by the wedding invitation format, it was also requested that guests wear the "proper" attire. Make no mistake, those who don't show up in bridesmaid/wedding apparel will be turned away. This is serious people. 

Of course, we'll need to document said attire so I'll create a photo backdrop with patterned wrapping paper. And if you have photo backdrop you must have props.  (People, and by people I mean me, never know what to do with their hands.) Hence, the mustaches and pink lips!

Obviously, there will bouquets, wedding cake, punch (spiked, of course) and plenty of munchies for the movie viewing madness.

I've got a bit more crafting, shopping and final preparations to take care of - can't wait for this to happen. Post party, I'll be sharing some pictures and details from the evening so stay tuned!


*Disclosure: Universal Studios Entertainment is sponsoring this event by providing me with a copy of the dvd as well as party supplies and a gift card. All opinions expressed are my own. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Bobby Pins You Don't Need to Hide

Tuesday, September 13, 2011



Usually, I'm trying to conceal the pins in my bun but these are sweet enough let show. Pretty pins have existed well before now, but these struck me as so adorable and everyday compared to some of the other options on the market. Discover ways to wear them here.

Harem Pants

Monday, September 12, 2011






Top - United Colors of Benetton  /  Pants - Bread n Butter  /  Shoes - Aldo  /  Clutch - Coach  / Bracelets - J.Crew

One of the trends that stood out to me in Hong Kong was the harem pant in every variation you could imagine, even for men. I fell hard for it and spent my free time scouring the city for the perfect pair. I ended up landing on these because pattern, silhouette and fabric came together in one fabulous form. (And I'm madly in love with them.) Since the look is droopy on bottom, I went with a simple tank on top and tried to jazz it up with yellow accessories. (And pink hair of course.)  Can't wait to try these with tights, booties and blazers in the fall!

Ten years ago I didn't have a blog, a Facebook account, a husband or even a job. Much has changed over the years, but one thing shall remain...

Never forgotten, forever grateful.

Fashion's Night Out

Friday, September 9, 2011










An evening of fabulous, fun and fashion... ah, the third annual Fashion's Night Out. The night started with a dip into the new Topshop on Michigan Avenue with the celebration continuing at the 900 Shops with Brad Goreski (even more adorable in person) and a few hundred other fashionable folk. Runway shows, photo booths, the Playboy bunnies - it was truly a shopping soiree. Dinner included a martini and a cupcake and we ended the night looking like drowned dogs (thank you torrential rain) but, we do these things in the name of passion. Happy Fashion Week!

P.S. A huge thank you to the randoms that gifted us with VIP passes, that was super.

September Events

Wednesday, September 7, 2011



Fall is the season for Fashion. With such a myriad of events, I thought it might be helpful to put together a little list. While some are Chicago based, many are happening nationally and I've tried to include links to those where applicable. Feel free to share and add any you may know of in the comments.


August 26 - September 8th  
In:Fashion - The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival
I don't know about you, but I don't need any arm twisting to attend a shopping festival. Find out everything that's happening with this handy dandy brochure.


Wednesday, September 7th:  
IFB Conference
If you're like me and the nine to five interfere's with attending a mid-week fashion blogger's conference in New York, you can follow the live stream here.

Lucky Magazine Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference
Once again, thank goodness for live streaming.


Thursday, September 8th 
Fashion's Night Out
Kick off Fashion Week and support the industry in cities throughout the world. See how to celebrate in your area here. In Chicago, I'll be attending at the 900 Shops and Water Tower Place.


September 8th - 15th  
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week
The big kahuna. Spring 2012 in all it's glamorous glory!


Tuesday, September 13th  
Chicago Fashion Connect's Fashion Industry Mixer
Connect with local fashion talent and entrepreneurs. Color coded tags to help navigate the crowd plus complimentary wine. Count me in!


Saturday, September 17th  
Nordstrom's Cosmetic Trend Show 
Plan a girl's morning out at this seasonal show featuring runway looks, tips, trends and the best specials you'll ever encounter on your favorite beauty and cosmetics brands. A must attend, happening throughout the US. Contact your local store to find out the exact dates in your area.





Thursday, September 29th
Chicago Fashion Foundation's Annual Membership Event
Though hosted in appreciation of CFF members, this event is open to everyone. Featuring speakers from local favorite, Lori's Shoes, you'll have to opportunity to network with fellow fashionista's, learn more about CFF and kick off the fall season in style.





October 17th - 23rd 
Fashion Focus Chicago
A celebration of Chicago's thriving fashion industry. Preview Spring 2012 collections from the city's hottest designers, shop and mingle with local fashion lovers.


That's a start...do you have anything to add??

Farewell Summer

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Goodbye...





             
Butterflies on Pretty Flowers


     

Hello sweaters, boots, crisp air and pumpkin.

P.S. We purchased our first pumpkin item of the season yesterday - cream cheese for toasted bagels, de-lish.