Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Fall Neutrals






Suede Booties c/o (under $100!) // Bucket Bag c/o (under $100)

I think I'm going to wear this outfit at least once a week now that it is chilly outside!! In Pittsburgh, it has steadily been in the lower 60s. In the mornings, it is downright cold-- closed toed shoes and coats are necessary. As the day goes on, I am able to shed some layers and I am thankful for that because I am so not ready for the cold-- last winter was brutal

This jacket I am wearing is one I fell in love with as soon as I saw it in the Talbots catalog. It is thick and warm like a winter coat (it's double faced wool) but the way it elegantly drapes makes it almost look as though I am wearing a waterfall cardigan! I like that it has both grey and camel-- paired with browns or blacks, this coat works with pretty much everything. It paired really nicely with this pretty slate gray bucket bag from Deux Lux (comes in a pebbled version, too!)! The coat also comes in hot pink for those that want to add a pop of color to their outerwear! Not to mention it is super cozy. It'll be great through December... then, when the wicked cold comes, I'll have to store it away until spring! For those in the southern climates that get milder winters, this would probably be heavy enough to take you through fall and winter! 

The booties are my new favorite. I have never owned a pair of Hush Puppies brand shoes and I'm now a believer. Not only are these shoes the cutest but the quality and comfort is out of this world. I honestly don't think I've ever worn more comfortable shoes. The footbed in the shoe is padded and almost feels like a memory foam mattress for your feet! I also didn't know this until I got them, but the suede is pre-treated so you can wear them in the snow or damp conditions and they won't get ruined. And, the sole is somewhat gripped so walking on ice is not an issue! Living in Pittsburgh, these are very legitimate qualities I look for in a fall and winter shoe! This one has practicality and is gorgeous-- especially the tasseled laces! 


Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Pittsburgh: Jazz at Andy's at the Fairmont


My friends and I still like to go out quite a bit to the 'younger' bars in the city, but truly, that's really not my thing. I'd much prefer attending a dinner party with close friends or go out for drinks and dinner. I'd like to think of Andy's as the perfect compromise. Andy's is the bar located in the lobby of the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. In the past year or two, it has quickly become one of my favorite places.
 
It is somewhat small, but when they have a jazz band (Wednesday-Saturday), it can get packed and the lobby area even fills up! They have different jazz bands every time I go and they're all really great. Sometimes I'll go with friends and we'll grab a late dinner there. The menu is somewhat limited, but delicious, nonetheless. I will usually go with a grilled salmon salad or their burger. They also mix up a killer margarita but have several champagne selections, too. 


If you are in the Pittsburgh area and looking for a fun night out, this is the place. It's upscale, fun, and the atmosphere is modern and clean. It's great for date night, but also great to start out or end the night out with the girls. I also love grabbing a bite at Andy's pre-Penguins game since it is within walking distance of Consol Energy Center. And, if you happen to want a late night snack, post-cocktails, you also happen to be very close to a Primanti's... just sayin'... Have a fabulous day! 

Neiman Marcus Sale



Sale at Neiman Marcus. Extra 25% off


Neiman Marcus is currently having a really good sale. You get an extra 25% off of sale. I love when the seasons switch because usually, that is when you can find some really good deals. There are a lot of gorgeous cocktail dresses so if you have anything coming up in the next few months, it is definitely worth browsing. Above are some of my favorite picks from the sale. 

They also have a lot of gorgeous sweaters on sale perfect to wear right now and into the winter.... a lot of them are cashmere-- my favorite ;)!

The way to shop this kind of sale: browse by categories. Once you are in a category, choose only your size. That way, you won't get disappointed if you fall in love and realize your size is sold out! For accessories, I sort by price range. For example, if I know I wouldn't spend more than $X on a necklace, then I choose the pricing categories under my max price to avoid temptation! 

It ends tonight at midnight, so hop to it!! Thank you to Shop at Home for sponsoring this post! Have a fabulous day! 

Monday, September 28, 2015

Monogrammed Signet Ring Under $100

preppy monogrammed signet ring under $100

I wear this classic gold signet ring on my left pinky everyday (read past post, here). It is a classic staple that should last a lifetime. If you're not a fan of the higher price tag, I've found a really great, identical ring for a fraction of the price (under $100)! 



Something to note: This ring takes 4 weeks to ship, so I suggest ordering somewhat soon if you want to give as a gift around the holidays! Happy shopping! 

Perfect Casual Fall Outfit






Vest c/o// Sweater c/o// Jeans (and here)

Can you believe it is almost already October?! I'm so happy about it because October is my favorite month of the entire year. The changing leaves, all the pumpkin flavored everything, when you just need a light coat or sweater... love it! 

This has to be one of my favorite simple and classic looks for fall and very 'October' in the sense that you don't quite need a coat yet. A sweater and a vest is comfortable and cozy. Not to mention, the combinations of mixing colors and patterns is endless. For this look, I kept it simple and classic with navy, white and brown. As the weather cools down, I will add a button down under the sweater or a scarf for more warm layers. 

Riding boots are essential during the fall and winter season. I think starting in about November, they become my most worn shoes. I got these boots on major sale a few months ago. But I've linked to this year's version. They're comfortable and you'll get your wear out of them for sure. While a little pricey, they're well worth it, in my opinion because of how well made they are! Have a fabulous day! 

Saturday, September 26, 2015

Saturday Shopping



I have a lot of traveling starting this week for basically the entire month of October! I am excited, but also know that requires me to really be on top of everything else in life so I can enjoy my time traveling! 

I've been browsing a lot-- hesitant to buy anything yet because it hasn't been really cold just yet. It's getting cooler in the mornings, but by the time I leave work, it's in the upper 70's and 80s. I do have an ever growing wish list, though, and I know I will start getting some new things in here and there as October begins (crazy!!). Here are some items I am absolutely loving right now. Have a fabulous day! 

Friday, September 25, 2015

Fall Basics

Riding Boots// Cable cashmere sweater// Classic Leather Bag// Timeless Sunglasses

With fall in full swing, I thought I'd share some basics that every woman should have in their closet! Fall is my favorite time of year and a big part of the reason is because of the clothes. I love the warm neutral hues, the plaids, the fabric textures, from cashmere to flannel and everything in between! 


These are 16 items that I think you'll be glad you have in your closet as the temperatures start to cool down even more! They're super versatile and also classics that will never go out of style, so it's worth it to buy the quality option! Do you have certain things that are on your fall basics list? Have a fabulous day! 

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Vineyard Vines Friends and Family Sale

Just popping in to let you know that the Vineyard Vines Friends and Family 25% off sale starts tomorrow! You can shop early using this unique code: summerwindff15.  I am wearing this vest and this sweater in the above photo-- full outfit post to come next week, but I absolutely love it-- at 25% off, it's a great price! Happy shopping!

Lately 9/24

This series has quickly become my favorite post to write each week. I love recommending things and sharing bits and pieces of things that I personally love. Hope you are enjoying, too and thanks for reading along with me!





Wearing: The weather has just started to become cooler. It's especially cool in the morning, which makes me want to dip into my fall wardrobe. It is officially fall, after all! I've been wearing these cabernet hued flats all the time. They're stylish, well made and the color is to die for. It matches with most of my fall wardrobe. Not to mention, they're incredible comfortable. Usually pointed toes on shoes cause me pain after a few hour of wear, but after breaking these in, they are a perfect all day shoe! They run true to size. I'm also obsessed with these suede brown booties for fall. SO cute. 


Smelling: After visiting my BFF Eugenia in NYC a few weekends ago, she always wears Signorina by Ferragamo. It reminds me how much I love that scent! It's light and fresh. Sophisticated, but perfect for a young 20-something professional! Plus, it doesn't hurt that the bottle is the cutest.

Pittsburgh-ing: Sonoma Grille. SO good. Be sure to check out my guide to my favorite Pittsburgh restaurants, here. There is also a link to it in the right sidebar of this site!

Watching: Jimmy Kimmel has 'regular people' wear runway looks from NYFW. Watch it here. It is too funny!

Eating: Nothing. Ok, I'm slightly kidding, but this past weekend I was really sick. Normally I'll get a cold here and there, but nothing serious. This was the kind of sickness where you can't do anything but sleep in bed for days. It was awful, but I'm glad to report I'm back to full health!

Drinking: A French 75. I recently had dinner at Eddie Merlot's (a new-to-me restaurant) downtown and they had a great French 75. I forgot how much I love these and how easy they are to make. If you like lemon, gin and prosecco, this is for you! 

Listening: My September Playlist is starting to shape up to be pretty darn good! I also have two concerts lined up for fall! I am going to Timeflies and then to the Chainsmokers. They're two very different concerts than I would normally go to, but I love both artists so I am really excited! Be sure to follow along on Snapchat (SummerWind41490), I'm always sharing my new favorite music!




Reading: I had my first article published in Distinction Magazine! Distinction Magazine is a luxury publication by the Pittsburgh Post Gazette! I am so excited to be writing for them from time to time. The articles are fun to write and always about topics I enjoy! I hope you'll check it out!

Loving & Wanting:
All. The. Plaid. Scroll through to see my favorite picks! Also, I'd like this sweater (under $100) in every single color. So gorgeous. 



Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Ralph's Coffeeshop





Every time I head to New York for fashion week, I go with an absolutely packed schedule. While it's fun, it's oftentimes exhausting, too. This time, I made a point to spend some fun 'touristy' time with my BFF Eugenia, who lives there! 

We strolled up 5th Avenue on Monday morning and headed to Ralph's. I had been wanting to go since it had opened. The photos I had seen on instagram and in magazines, really sold me. While a lot smaller than I had imagined, it did not disappoint. 

The green and white color scheme was clean and inviting, not to mention, the tiled floor, marble tables and cappuccino art was an instagrammer's heaven. The cappuccino's were one of the best I've ever had. I think that is partially because I always order skim milk, but this time, I figured go big or go home and let them use whole milk. Every sip was incredible... I almost ordered a second! 

It's on the second floor of the Ralph Lauren flagship, it's actually kind of hidden! 

Ralph's Coffeeshop 
711 5th Avenue, NY, NY 
Corner of 55th and 5th

It doesn't have much in regards to food. Scone and muffins, but that's it. So afterward, we walked to Maison Kayser (my favorite) in Columbus Circle. It was such a picture perfect morning. The weather could not have been more perfect and the walk along Central Park South was gorgeous. Have you been? Have a fabulous day! 

Denim Dress + Riding Boots







Dress  (on sale!) c/o// Barbour Jacket// Striped Tote c/o



Regardless of season, a shirtdress is always appropriate. It's easy to throw on, but always looks polished and classic. For fall, it works really well because you can layer overtop of the shirtdress in so many different ways. 

I paired this denim shirtdress with riding boots for a 'right now' look. But as it gets cooler, tights can be added or a throw on a turtleneck underneath or sweater over top. Not to mention, the cinch at the waist gives it some shape making it a little dressier and therefore, work appropriate. 

If you don't have a Barbour jacket, I definitely recommend one. It's a well-made classic that never goes out of style. It's casual but versatile. I have the classic beaufort (seen here) and the one seen above is from the Barbour x Land Rover collection. I got this jacket half off at the Barbour store in Georgetown. Can't beat that!! 

The tote you've seen here, but I have been using it constantly. It's so well made and the blue stripes go with most of my wardrobe. It's the perfect size for commuting to work! I really love all of the MDS collection by Mark Sikes. If you are unfamiliar with Mark Sikes, his interior design work is incredible-- I love everything he does and his taste matches mine to a T! 

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Giveaway: Haley and the Hound

Haley and the Hound Julia Dress

Haley and the Hound

Just popping in this evening to let you know of a fun giveaway over on Instagram (@SummerWind41490)! I'm partnering up with Haley and the Hound to give away one of their pretty little Julia dresses! Good luck! 

Cream + Black





Ruffle Collared Shirt// Black Skirt// Bag (less expensive version)


How fun is this ruffle collared top? It's not something I would normally gravitate to, but at under $100, I added it to my wardrobe. It's slightly cropped so it works really nicely with skirts, which is what I wanted it for. I think this is a great look for work but can easily be transitioned into play. It comes in black, too, which will be great for the holiday season. 

The skirt is something I wear at least once a week to work. It's flattering and simple and the price can't be beat. It's perfect for new post-grads because it's not super long or dowdy. As for sizing, it runs true to size, if you are between sizes, size down. I am in a size 2. 

Grey pumps have been my life-saver lately. I'm not sure why, but all of the sudden, I have been constantly reaching for these pumps. They match with everything under the sun and are very ladylike. I even like them more than nude pumps! Have a fabulous day! 

Monday, September 21, 2015

Kate Spade Surprise Sale



I don't normally fall head over heels during a Surprise Sale, but seriously, this one is so good. I had to hold back restraints from shopping it too much. I've spent a lot of time sick in bed, unfortunately, which has led to a little too much time to browse. Here are my favorites-- and a lot are under $100, including this uber classic tank style watch. Shop it quick-- it ends on the 24th! Oh, and have you seen Anna Kendrick in their Missadventure series? It's too good. Have a fabulous day! 

LBD + Black Patent Pumps








I love all black for a night out or most occasions. It's simple and chic and since I have a lot of it in my closet, I find it really easy to wear.

I didn't have a pair of black patent pumps in my shoe arsenal. I knew I needed a pair, but I wasn't looking to spend a ton. I also wanted them to be comfortable enough to wear to work and with cocktail attire.

Cue Nordstrom-- where they always have the answer to everything. Of course, I found the perfect pair of black patent pumps: the Juliana pumps by Cole Haan. Cole Haan recently introduced a new 'operating system' called Grand. OS. It's basically their way of saying that every pair with Grand will be comfortable. This Juliana pair is no exception. I wore them to work and then to drinks and had no need for a second pair of shoes. That's a major win in my book. These shoes run true to size. I usually wear an 8, and that's what I am wearing in these pumps. I love that they're classic with a slightly pointed toe, which I think elongates the leg. Have a fabulous day!

Thank you to Nordstrom, for sponsoring this post. 

Sunday, September 20, 2015

Seasonal Candle Scents


Now that we are 2/3 of the way through September (woah) I felt like it was appropriate to talk about my favorite seasonal candles. Right now I am really loving the pumpkin chai scent. It's cozy and not too overpowering or too spicy. 

I love candles. The romantic glow that they give off is the best and the scent is always an added bonus. I think they make a room so cozy and inviting! I always like to try out different candle scents and brands. 

I just placed an order for hearth, holiday and birchwood pine in the votive sizes. I like to stock up on the votive size as hostess gifts. At just $14, they are nice to have on hand during the holiday season. You can save $2 if you buy this set, or save $7 with this set! I also ordered the larger size in holiday since I know I love it. It is the best during November and December. I don't like to burn it any sooner, though, but it will be good to have them on hand. For now, I'll be burning pumpkin chai! Do you have any favorite scents for the upcoming months? Have a fabulous day! 
 

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