BEDKNOBS & BAUBLES

The Coveted

January 12, 2016 by jessica 13 Comments

I can’t even begin to tell you how obsessed I am with the Paule Ka loafers. I knew nothing about the brand until I browsed the M’oda ‘Operandi trunk show, which led me to Google image search the designer’s past collections. I’m smitten with so many of the pieces. Nothing makes my heart pitter-patter as much as those loafers, though. The trunk show ends in a few days and I’m thisclose to pulling the trigger. (This year’s tax return splurge, perhaps? Irresponsibly spent before actually receiving a return?)

Yes, You Finally Need a Winter Coat

January 11, 2016 by jessica 9 Comments

The warm start to the season was costly for retailers. Reports indicate that specialty stores lost $572 million due to the lessened demand for winter coats and boots. That staggering number doesn’t even take into account department stores and sporting goods stores. While the weather has finally shifted in their favor, that’s still a lot of puffer coats and faux fur to move to make room for the spring merchandise. But, bad news for retailers means good news for shoppers. Winter’s best coats and accessories are finally on sale — just when we finally need them!

WRAP: A wrap coat is pajama dressing at its finest. There are no buttons, no snaps, and no clips. Just a sash to make you feel like you’re wearing your warmest throw blanket out of the house. Be wary of overly fuzzy styles or fleece. Those are straying too far into bathrobe territory.

Top Row: Ganni, $231 | Intermix, $269 | Ralph Lauren, $220
Bottom Row: Ivanka Trump, $210 | MICHAEL Michael Kors, $130 | Johnston & Murphy, $190

FAUX FUR: If you already have a solid collection of outerwear, it’s time to add a little luxe to your life with a cozy, faux fur topper. At first blush, these seem like they would have been better suited for the holiday season. They’re ultra glam and add a warm layer to your party dresses without sacrificing style. However, they’re still a practical purchase with two months left of brutal winter. And, they might be the only thing to make bundling up more bearable! I just placed an order for the navy Eliza J coat, which is the one I’d recommend if you’re looking for longevity with this purchase. The understated color with short “fur” makes it a classic piece you’ll want to wear next year. It also comes in burgundy and silver.

Top Row: Eliza J, $150 | ASOS, $93 | ASOS, $83
Bottom Row: Topshop, $130 | Ann Taylor, $209 | MICHAEL Michael Kors, $200

PEACOAT: A classic peacoat is a wardrobe staple. If you don’t already own one, chose versatile black or navy this sale season. Already checked that off your sartorial list? Try something unexpected like this preppy plaid version. Me? I’d go with olive green. It’s not a color I’m normally drawn to, but I think the coat would look darling with a scarf in either aqua or pink.

Top Row: Tommy Hilfiger, $95 | Via Spiga, $80 | Boden, $206
Bottom Row: J.Crew, $200 | Lands’ End, $90 | Gap, $119

The Weekend Guide

January 8, 2016 by jessica 4 Comments

DIY
If you have any special occasions coming up this year, add this DIY to your Pinterest planning board. Flower petals suspended in ice make for a gorgeous wine bucket.

CURB
There’s a good chance we’re all trying to cut back on spending in 2016. Take a look at this guide for 40 simple ways to save.

MAKE
Sweet potato tahini crostini looks like the afternoon snack while you’re cooped up inside. Let it snow!

ADMIRE
Brands are starting to recognize the shopping power of Muslim women. Take a look at the gorgeous collection of hijabs and abayas from Dolce & Gabbana.

ORGANIZE
Who has resolved to tackle her closet this month?
:: raises hand ::
Join me with this guide to making the process more enjoyable and productive.

LEARN
Expand your vocabulary with 35 new words.

EARLIER THIS WEEK
Enter to win a Hole in Wall subscription box filled with products from Seattle!
Sharing my 2016 resolutions.
The spring items I’m coveting this week.
Save 70% on gorgeous layering jewelry at Gorjana.

FIVE UNDER $55

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additional images via 1, 2

Save 70% at Gorjana

January 7, 2016 by jessica 5 Comments

Gorjana, your go-to destination for the perfect layer pieces, is offering 70% off a huge selection of gorgeous gems. Use code HANGOVER70 to save on the selection featured here. I’ve had my eye on this lariat necklace for awhile now, but never took the full-price plunge. ($75 always seemed too excessive for what it was.) For $22.50, though, I was sold.

The sale ends Jan. 10.

From left to right: Ryder Lariat, Bali Lariat, Shera Pendant, Marmont Pendant, Alma Necklace, Cersi Lariat, Ojai Pendant

Giveaway! Hole in Wall Subscription Box

January 6, 2016 by jessica 3 Comments

I came across the German word “fernweh” today. While there isn’t a perfect English translation, it basically means a burning desire to visit locations you’ve never experienced before. And that’s exactly how I felt when I cracked the seal of the latest subscription box to capture my fancy: Hole in Wall.

Hole in Wall is a bi-monthly subscription box that features unique, local items from the box’s featured city. These items can range from snacks and condiments to candles and soaps, but they all have one thing in common. They’re from local small businesses. In essence, you feel like you went to the farmers’ market and had inside knowledge of the best booths to visit.

The December box featured San Diego, a city I instantly yearned to visit, thanks to the selection of food items and the candle that bears the city’s name. The scents of surf, sand, and jasmine were just the thing to make me feel like I traveled across the country without having to leave my apartment.

For your own brush with fernweh, scroll down to see what was tucked inside my box and then enter to win the upcoming February box that will make you want to book a flight to Seattle! Good luck!

Hole In Wall is transparent about the cost of the items inside. You’ll find product descriptions and prices enclosed. Here’s what was included in the San Diego box:

Oats + Honey Facial Soap Bar, $7 (brand packaging wasn’t included on this one)
Nibble 72% Cocoa Dark Chocolate, $6
True Gentleman Korean Beef BBQ Jerky, $7
Arrogant Bastard Oaked Chipotle Sauce, $6
MJ’s Market P.C. Bar, $4
Hopkins AG Lime and Sea Salt Almonds, $3.75
Bella Vie Scented Soy Candle in San Diego, $7
Maw ‘N Paw Caramel Kettlekorn, $3

Total value: $43.75
Price: one box = $35; three boxes = $32.50 each; six boxes = $30 each

Even with $7 shipping per box, you’re getting your money’s worth — along with the smug knowledge that you scored some of the city’s best under-the-radar finds.

Enter to win the February box featuring Seattle!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents. Good luck!