Lately 8/11/2016

Lace Shell Top// Silk Pleated Skirt

Red Ballet Flats// Grey Ferragamo Bag

Cable Bracelet// Sunglasses 

Wearing: This outfit is coming soon to the blog. It's a really great outfit because the colors are very fall appropriate, while the materials are still light and summery. To me, it's the perfect transitional look! Aren't these little red suede ballet flats too cute? I love the slight pointy toe-- an updated take on the classic ballet flat! 

Drinking: My friend Lauren was in town from DC this weekend, so we headed to the William Penn's speakeasy one night. My friend Amanda and I both ordered a cocktail named 'aviation'. If you're not familiar with the Speakeasy, it's a small, cozy, well-done bar in the basement of the William Penn hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. It's known for unique craft cocktails. The drink had gin, luxardo maraschino, creme de violette, and lemon. It was served in a martini glass and was light purple in color. It was absolutely delicious. I'm going to hunt down a bottle of creme de violette next time I am at the liquor store to try and recreate the cocktail!

Wanting: As much as I love summer, I am really over it. I hate to admit it, but it's true. I much prefer fall. In terms of dressing, the milder temperature makes it much easier to layer and accessorize without getting too hot. Not to mention, I just can't get enough of all the prints and textures of fall: plaids, flannels, suedes, denim, cashmere... the list goes on! I came across these uber preppy bow flats the other night and ordered them on the spot. They have such a collegiate, back-to-school vibe that I love and I think they'll fit in so perfectly with my go-to cashmere cable knit, oxford cloth button down and jeans uniform once it starts to cool down. I'm also sharing some other things I've come across this week in the widget above! 

Watching: As the entire world is aware, this week marks the first full week of the Olympics in Rio. I came across this video from the Barcelona 1992 Olympics of runner Derek Redmond. He had never won a medal before and mid-race he tore his hamstring. I'm not a crier, but for some reason, emotional sports moments always tug at my heartstrings (not even kidding, this Gatorade commercial gives me all the feels and I cry like a baby at the end of Friday Night Lights). This one definitely brought tears to my eyes. The video is inspiring and really reminds you to keep going and never give up regardless of the obstacles that may get in your way.

Pittsburgh-ing: Gaucho. Everyone in Pittsburgh needs to go here if they haven't. I had tried so many times before to eat at Gaucho (in the Strip District), but the line is always out the door. You order at the counter and then are seated while you wait for your order. You can also get take out (which is what we did because there were no seats available) and the best part is that it is BYOB. They have both indoor and outdoor seating. It has an Argentinian influence and they're best known for their fire roasted meats and then 'salads'. My sister and I tried sausage, steak, and chicken and then got a few of the vegetable salads. Absolutely incredible. Everything tasted so flavorful and fresh. There's no wonder you can never get in, but it is so worth the wait in line!

Loving: This product by Mario Badescu. It literally makes any type of zit or blemish go away over night (seriously). A total game changer. In the past few months, I've become a total Mario Badescu convert. The products are some of the best I've ever used and they're decently affordable, too.

Decorating: I shared on Instagram/Snapchat (SummerWind41490) that my dad came over last week to finally hang some things on my walls. I've been here since the beginning of May and I'd say it has taken me a good 3 months to find things for the walls. I'm in no rush and want to be sure I absolutely love anything and everything I bring into my home. I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, though! I got a lot of questions about the brass frames that were hung above my bed (full post to come) so I figure I would link them here. They are an 18.5" square gold frame with a white matte for a 5x7 photo. I used black and white photos of loved ones and hung 4 above my bed in a 2x2 square. I think it looks so great!

Listening: I embedded my August playlist in last week's Lately post, so if you want to check that out, I suggest it! But I wanted to embed my 'Throwback playlist'. I started it back in late 2014 and have always been adding to it here and there. It has great classic rock songs, some 80's hits, and more. If you can't tell, I love a good Billy Joel song and some Motown. This is probably one of my most listened to playlists. I've actually had Van Morrison's 'Into the Mystic' on repeat this week! It's great to have on in the background while working. I also put this playlist on when I have people over. I am pretty sure all the songs are appropriate and catchy/upbeat for any type of gathering. 

I also think this playlist is great inspiration for any of you who may be planning your wedding. There are a ton of really good songs that most know and will get everyone on the dancefloor singing and dancing...like Aint No Mountain High Enough, September (one of my all-time favorite dance songs), and Rich Girl. 

Quoting: Won't you kiss me on that midnight street, sweep me off my feet, singing ain't this life so sweet.' - This Year's Love