Fall Must-Haves!

1. Oversized Plaid Blanket Scarves. As classic as a piece like this may be, it's really having a trendy moment. Perfect way to stay warm while still looking chic. I've always had an affinity for plaid. It reminds me of my grade school uniforms. It also has a Celtic feel to it; which of course, as an Irish girl, I can appreciate.

2. Green & Grey Nail Polish. Feeling these two hues for the season. A couple options: OPI Gwen Stefani Holiday, Christmas Gone Plaid. Chanel Frenzy.

3. Booties. My favorite style of shoe is definitely a must-have for Fall! I'm not into wearing true heels very often. Booties are the best of both worlds. A little extra height without any discomfort? Yes, please. Loving my new blue suede shoes. Matt Bernson Coup D'etat Leather Ankle Boots.

4. Brixton Messer Style Hats. Blacks, Browns, Mulberrys... I'll take two in every color and style. I'm truly a hat type of lady. Love that these are having a major style comeback.

5. Capes. For the past few years, I've been living in these throws during the colder months. When Burberry introduced their now iconic color block monogram blanket poncho, seemingly worn by every fashionista in the world, this type of piece really gained street style cred. This would be an incredible personalized DIY look.

6. Bobbi Brown Holiday Shimmer Brick, Copper Diamond. The tortoise shell packaging alone was enough to sell me on this beauty. I love the shimmer bricks as a highlighter but they can also be used as eyeshadow. Get this limited edition shade while it's still available. They last forever. Incredibly gorgeous especially for the holidays or to add a touch of warmth when the sun is no longer shining.

7. A new lipstick- Browns, Berrys, & Burgundys, oh my! I've really been into these types of shades for the season. My new favorite lines to fall in love with are Charlotte Tilbury and Gucci; however, shades like this can be found in just about any line. Other brands to consider: Revlon, MAC.

8. Candles. As soon as the temps drop, I go candle crazy. I don't like to spend a lot on something so disposable but it's nice to indulge in a little bit of luxury every now and again. Any brand. Any scent (or lack thereof) will do! Candles add such magic to any atmosphere. Love.













Now Playing: "3 Days" by Rhye

Nail Me: Winter 2014 Polish Picks

Top Row:

Marc Jacobs Gatsby: This is the polish that I have on right now. I love the name and was impressed with the formula- smooth and speedy drying time. I initially thought it might be too similar to Butter London Fairy Lights but this is much more subdued; where Fairy Lights is pink, Gatsby is far more silver and cool toned.

Essie Chinchilly: This is one of the polishes I get the most compliments on. It's a perfect neutral for winter and will match just about anything you're wearing. On-trend and flattering.

Tom Ford Bordeaux Lust: I don't own this polish (nor anything from Tom Ford's beauty line) but I have been anxious to try it out. I don't recommend splurging on an expensive brand without doing a bit of research but if you were to get one color from the line, I would suggest a shade like this or a vibrant red. Wine colored polishes are some of my favorites for fall and winter. They're a must-have for February and Valentine's Day.

Essie Going Incognito: One of my favorite greens. This is a rich, jewel tone that is flattering against my coloring. It's nice to have on hand around March when St. Patrick's Day is approaching and Spring is on its way.

Chanel Magic: I opted against putting this in my collection (that still might change but I'm trying to be strong). I love the name but I just couldn't justify another blue when I already have similar alternatives in shades like OPI Dating A Royal. But if you're looking for a beautiful blue with a spectacular name, search no further. This is gorgeous for the winter but can easily be worn all year long.

Bottom Row:

Butter London Hardwear P.D. Quick Top Coat: I scored this in a holiday value set that was marked down. I really like the formula. It gives my bottle of Seche Vite a break. Sometimes it's nice to just let your nails go bare and a good top coat is all that you need.

OPI My Private Jet: There are two formulas and the original is far superior. I had to hunt mine down online. The subtle glitter is mesmerizing but the color of the base still remains calm.

Julep Nicolette: I couldn't find a picture of this particular color but anything in the grey family is what I'm selecting. Essie Power Clutch is a darker option.

Michael Kors Sexy: This is a red that I don't personally own but the few Michael Kors polishes that I do have, I'm very impressed with. The packaging is so sleek and elegant. Every woman needs a classic red in a fabulous bottle and this fits the bill. Dior Diorific from last year's holiday collection was another great one.

OPI Nail Envy Base Coat: I've been loving this base coat. It creates the smoothest foundation for my polish. I love the way it helps the varnish glide while strengthening my nails. It's also quite glossy on its own.

Now Playing: "Baby" by Donnie and Joe Emerson
*I think this might be one of my favorite songs of all time. I need to get it on vinyl!

Luxe Living: Christmas Decor

Now Playing: "Soul Food" by Martina Topley-Bird

Flick Pick: Christmas Movies!

It wouldn't quite feel like the holidays without watching some of my favorite Christmas movies. Here is a small list of some of the films I enjoy watching the most during this time of year...

A Christmas Story (1983).

The King of Christmas movies in my eyes. I keep this playing on TBS all day long on Christmas day. It just isn't the same without watching this movie once (or 10 times).

The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)

I find Rankin/Bass movies to be so adorable. I've loved them since I was little. These are the movies I'll want to show my own children the most someday.

Christmas Vacation (1989)

I love this one. A true classic comedy.

The Family Stone (2005)

I remember seeing this one at the theater with my family when I was home for college break. It's not for everyone but it's one of my favorite modern Christmas movies.

Home Alone (1990)

This was one of the earliest movies I remember. In grade school, it was always the one we watched on movie days. I love the vibe of this. John Hughes was the master.















Now Playing: "Big Jet Plane" (Acoustic) by Angus and Julia Stone
*This version is beautiful but the original is one of my absolute favorite songs of the past decade.

Seasonal Selections

• UGG Slippers & Snuggly Soft Socks
• Gucci Guilty Perfume
• Fairy Lights
• Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
• Red Lips! Urban Decay 69 Pencil & Lipstick
• Leather- Hats, Accessories, Accents, Decor...
• Houndstooth Outerwear- Coats, Capes, Scarves...
• HBO- Ja'mie: Private School Girl, True Detective, Real Time, Girls...
• Penguins Hockey
• Red Wine (Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cab)
• St. Nikolaus Bock Bier
• Bing Crosby Records

Now Playing: "Kites" by Geographer
*Love this song so much. Such beautiful sounds.

Put A Flag On It

If you're stateside and observing, I hope you have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend! As far as I'm concerned, it's the unofficial start to summer. My older sister was born on Memorial Day 1984 (her birthday falls on a Tuesday this year), so we've always had a party to celebrate. My Dad is a Vietnam vet, so the flag flies as well. If you're American, take the time to be thankful for the country we live in- the U.S. is far from where it needs to be but its come such a long way from where she started.












Now Playing: "American Girl" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
*Duh

Christmas Q&A

Favorite Christmas Movies? A Christmas Story, Home Alone, The Family Stone, Christmas Vacation, Rankin Bass classics...

What color Christmas lights do you like best? Soft white

Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? We have our party on Christmas Eve so I'll go with that. Christmas Day is usually uneventful after the presents are exchanged.

Is it better to give o receive? GIVE!!! I love shopping for others and get so excited to give them their presents. Now that I'm older, there really isn't anything I want that I can't get for myself during the rest of the year. I'm hard to buy for.

Favorite Christmas song of all time? I have a lot of favorites! "Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt is always fun.

Favorite Christmas decorations? Obviously the tree, candles, lights, garland, anything Reindeer, ribbons & bows... I love it all!

Favorite Christmas color? Gold! I love all shades of gold for just about anything.

Choice Christmas animal? I don't think I've ever gotten this question, lol. Hmmm... Like I said above, I love the reindeer but other than that, penguins, doves, polar bears... all of them?

Christmas cocktail of choice: Maybe Gin & Ginger Ale? I'm usually a beer or wine girl but on Christmas Eve, we always have tons of Ginger Ale in the house.

Favorite Christmas cookie? Iced Sugar Cookies or Gingerbread Men

Favorite Christmas candy? Candy Canes

Do you have/like a White Christmas? I LOVE when we have a White Christmas! It just doesn't feel the same without snow on the ground. It makes it so much more magical :) I don't know how people can celebrate properly with hot, sunny weather.

Best Christmas gift you ever got? When we were little, My Dad made my sister and I a Victorian doll house. It was massive and took so many hours of craftsmanship. Hopefully, someday I can pass it on to my own daughter.

Best Christmas gift you ever gave? I'm a pretty good gift giver if I do say so myself (or so I've been told). Nothing in particular immediately comes to mind. The guy I end up with will have to receive that award. I usually like to put many gifts inside a reusable item like a purse or storage box and hide little things inside of pockets or other compartments. It makes it more fun.

















Now Playing: "Winter Wonderland" by Bing Crosby

Luxe Living: Christmas Decor

Now Playing: "(There's No Place Like) Home For the Holidays" by Perry Como