An Inviting Place with Twinkling Lights

Positano IMG_0726 IMG_0738 This may sound crazy but travel is a powerful thing for me.  It enables me to go places in the world where I get to experience different cultures, different ways of life and takes me away from the harried day-to-day craziness I live in NYC. Don’t get me wrong, I love that craziness but when I travel I love to experience a different way of life, often times at a little slower of a pace so that I can reset.

For me, most recently, I had that moment of full clarity, relaxation and pure awe of the place I was in while in Positano, Italy. We had been doing the normal things around the tiny towns scattered about along the Amalfi Coast all week. Truly enjoying each moment, colored houses, gorgeous Italian style, the nonchalant lifestyle, everything. So, when we finally went to sit down for dinner in Positano we found Bruno’s, a delightful little spot not too far down the hillside with incredible views and the friendliest owners ever. True story.  I took a moment after dinner to snap these pics while taking it all in, Positano is stunning day or night but I think it truly lights up when all of the houses, stacked one on top of the other are lit up.

Such a calming, welcoming + inviting scene – don’t you think?

Just a thought.

Until tomorrow,

A

Hello New Job!

Updated Work Space

A new job means a new office, a new desk and more importantly a fresh, clean one! It’s a fresh start if you will. I was at my last job for six years, over that time my desk had accumulated stacks of magazines, files, cards and random little things I’d picked up here or there from the traveling I did while working. It had no personality left to it because of the stuff that had taken over. I packed that office up, did a deep cleanse – nothing feels better than ridding yourself of unnecessary stuff – and swore to myself I wouldn’t let my next office wind up in the same shape.

 

Enter my mini shopping spree finds! I’m now at a place that has an open floor plan, which I’ll admittedly say I am still getting used to but love. The open white space I now have is perfect complete with clean lines and ample room. So, I went out and snagged a few office essentials that resonated with my own personal style.

My Must-Haves:

Russell & Hazel Binder

Whitney English Day Designer {a blogger’s lifesaver!}

Gentle Reminders Pencils {I’m a pencil junkie}

Merci Notecards {Always keep TY notes on hand!}

A great tray {I snagged this one at OKL, but you can find similar ones at West Elm}

 

What’s your office style?

 

Ready for the Weekend!

Clemence Posey

The official first day of Summer may only be two weeks away but it has been feeling a lot like Spring around here lately. I thought for a while there Mother Nature had decided to skip Spring altogether, but with high’s in the 70s and sun for days I’ll take this weather over what is inevitably coming later this summer. So for now, I’ll take a rainy Friday for two gorgeous weekend days filled with rooftop get-togethers, bike rides and impromptu park picnics!

Of course, I’ve compiled a few recommendations to help inspire your weekend plans! What do you have on tap for the weekend?

  • Need a good cocktail in your hand? Try one of these {A + B} You’ll thank me later.
  • Don’t have a wine opener at your outdoor picnic? No problem, check out this easy tutorial on how to open that bottle with your shoe. Yeah, you’re welcome.
  • It’s National Donut Day. Don’t fret, I consider it to be that day on a regular basis. Whip up a few of these this weekend to celebrate! {Baked, Donut Holes or better yet, buy them at Doughnut Planet!}
  • Looking for a weekend project? I’ve been dying to try this DIY Chevron rug.

NYC Crew:

  • A Cup of Jo shares her three favorite bike rides around NYC. Get your spin on kids.
  • Governor’s Ball.  Are you going? If so, I’m jealous.
  • Get your BBQ fill in for the rest of the year at the Annual Big Apple BBQ event

And on a personal note, I’ve wrapped my first week at the new gig, time for a little bubbly if you ask me!

xx

A

{Image of Clemence Poesy via Glamour UK}

Overhauling Overalls

 

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There are trends that one hesitates to try. You know, the fads that few can pull off appropriately, the ones that on the runway cause a stir, they’re reinvigorated from decades gone by but ultimately only a handful of gals can nail it just right. For me personally, it’s the hottest denim trend of the season … overalls. Fortunately, it’s one that is relatively easy to try. It’s one piece of denim awesomeness. Perfect for summer but you have to know a few little tricks so that you don’t look like Farmer Joe’s little sister.

Here are my top 3 tips to ensure you look hot all summer long in this bold denim ensemble.

  • Dress them up! Enter killer heels and a bold statement necklace.
  • Not into that? Dress them down with jack rogers and a cute top. Casual chic.
  • Do not, whatever you do, put a plaid/gingham or any other variation of that print top on with them.

Snag the look:

Will you be giving this look a go? Do tell!

A

Celebration Weekend!

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Short weeks always fly by but this past one was insane. I felt as though I didn’t have a minute to really relax with so much going on. After the long weekend that I spent in the Northfork of LI vineyard hopping I came back to a few days in NYC before heading to TX. In addition to the quick trips, I am changing jobs and left my job after six wonderful years, while it is bittersweet I am elated about the new adventure I am going on.  I am certain I’ll feel like the new kid in school, a feeling that I haven’t felt in so long, but it’s exciting at the same time.

In between leaving one place and starting a new chapter, I’m Texas bound for a few days of sun with family and friends.  What could be better?

What does this beautiful weekend have in store for you?  If you’re not sure, check out a few of the links below, they’ll surely inspire you in some way or another!

xx

A

In NYC?

In Dallas? Join me …

Not in either? That’s ok!

  • Pick up a copy of Cherry Bombe, you’ll be in the kitchen in no time.
  • Amp up the chicness of your home, try your hand at a DIY project like this one, this one or this one!

Memorial Day Essentials

Weekend Essentials

 

Memorial Day is right around the corner and whether you’re heading to the beach, the lake or just a good ole fashioned backyard (or park!) BBQ you’re going to need to be dressed appropriately and have the weekend essentials ready to go. Enter in my new go to denim obsession: the Moto dungarees from TopShop. I’m in love. Not only do they go with everything and how cute are they? I know what you’re thinking but please refrain from remembering this trend in its heyday back in the 90′s when Donna, Kelly even Blossom and Clarissa {who remembers Clarissa Explains It All??} were strutting themselves around in these guys. Make sure, whatever you do, that they are not tight fitting or pulling in any place when you try these guys on. You want a loose pair so that they are as flattering as possible!

All of these pieces are versatile, essentials that you can have in your closet or on hand any day of the week! Wear the tank with a leather mini, add the sneakers to a cute summer dress, sunglasses go with everything and the wine tote, do I really need to tell you where else you can use that? Every. Single. Weekend.

  • 3.1 Phillip Lim silk tank here
  • Kate Spade Pack A Picnic Wine Tote here
  • Zara striped sneakers here
  • TopShop Moto Dungrees here
  • ILLESTEVA Leonard 2 round-frame sunglasses here

xx

Desert Dressing

MSGM Ikat Dress
MSGM Ikat Dress

MSGM Ikat Dress

Arizona MSGM Ikat Dress MSGM Dress Dapper Date

Wedding season is officially in full swing and we kicked it off recently at a gorgeous wedding in Arizona. What better dress to wear than this brightly colored ikat MSGM number since the gorgeous desert mountain was setting the stage for a perfect backdrop? With such a bold dress, I went easier than normal on accessories with solids that were all pulled from the colors of the dress. I of course had to share a snap of my dapper date and I at the ceremony.

Want to snag the look?

MSGM dress, old earrings {snatch up these Kate Spade baubles for a similar look}, Christian Louboutin Lady Peep-toes {similar here}, old BCBG clutch {grab this similar Tory Burch one}

What are you wearing to all of this summer’s weddings?

A

Weekend Weekend!

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This week flew by for me and seems to have been that way for most everyone else I know too.  This weekend I’ll be spending it with friends in from Texas, saying goodbye to one New Yorker who is trading in the big apple for the emerald city and brunching it up with the girls. Does a weekend get any better? I think not. However, should you need a few things to keep you occupied here are a few ideas so get your planning hat on.

  • Road trip anyone? Start your summer trip planning now thanks to these awesome City Tour Guides over on Kate Spade!
  • Pull your bike out of storage, off the street or wherever it may be living and ride it. Here’s a little inspiration to get your wheels moving.
  • Need a DIY project? Here’s a few ideas of what to do with those wonderful mason jars you keep snatching up at the Flea!
  • Need a little refreshing beverage? Try this delightful recipe from What Katie Ate. I love. (see image above too)

For the New York Kids

  • Who is heading out to Brooklyn for the Great Googa Mooga festival?
  • Madison Square Eats is in full swing (hello food vendors!)
  • Love a good vintage find? Spend the weekend shopping at Brimfield (check out Erin’s haul here!) So jealous and dying to go next time!
  • Lulu Frost can do no wrong in my book. I’ll be scoring some major deals at her sample sale. Want to join? Check out Mizhattan’s recap of the bauble deals!
  • New NYC hot spots that I’m dying to check out. Adding to my Wunderlist restaurant list now.

Happy Weekend Friends! xx

A

{image here}

Au Natural

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Naturally when the weather warms up the last thing any girl wants to do is deal with a curling iron, flat iron or rollers to get her look together prior to walking out the door. Women tend to embrace the more natural look when spring and summer role around, you see less of the “done up” look and more of the nautral glow. Hair is allowed to do its thing, for better or worse and we’re all guilty of tossing it back into a chic chignon or up in a ponytail. I know I am and taking a page from my sister’s recommendation book, I’ve transitioned over to the BB Cream train too. I’m pretty much obsessed with the L’Oreal Studio Secrets Magic Liquid BB Cream.

Here’s a little beauty inspiration to start your week. Do you dare to attempt the au natural beauty routine this week at the office?  I just may …

xx

A

A Gorgeous Weekend? Yes!

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It seems as though Mother nature has come around, it’s finally warm and sunny here in NYC! This weekend will without a doubt be enjoyed outside as much as possible starting with a picnic in the park complete with a little pizza and vino.  A little R&R is much needed so that will happen but honestly, I’m just giddy just thinking about all of the warm weather activities about to happen! What do you have on tap this weekend?

  • Stuck inside because of the rain? The Great Gatsby Opens in theaters today so snag a bucket ‘o popcorn and enjoy!
  • Need a laugh or to fall in love? Well see John Krasinski and Jimmy Fallon do a spectacular (lip-synching) rendition of our fave songs  
  • Stop by your local Farmer’s Market and pick up fresh produce {hello ramp season!} & whip up this fab recipe
  • Not into cooking? Try your hand at creating a gorgeous flower arrangement, here’s a little inspiration for you! 
  • Don’t forget it’s Mother’s Day on Sunday! Send a beautiful arrangement, take her to brunch and make sure you let her know that you’re forever indebted to her!

For my NYC’ers!

  • First of all – Get outside. 
  • Embrace the weekend and venture out to Randall’s Island to check out the Frieze Art Fair 
  • The Met’s PUNK Exhibit kicked-off Monday with the Met Gala but those of us who fell off the invite list can see the exhibit now, though this weekend is sure to be insanity so bookmark it for a few weeks!
  • Standard Pizza joint opens under the highline 

Happy Weekend!

A

{Image via here}

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Kate Moss April 2013 French Vogue

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Here in NYC I’ll be heading out to Brooklyn to partake in a day full of Mexican fare, spicy margaritas and enjoy an awesome time with friends! I’m pretty pumped to wear my new ASOS dungarees and these Zara sandals just for the occasion. However, if I weren’t heading out to the BKYLN, I‘d likely be whipping up some of these amazing recipes and hitting the park to enjoy this beautiful weather.

Round-Up of My Favorites:

  • Camille’s team manages to create some killer Taco recipes {check out all 10 here}
  • Strawberry Basil Margarita? Yes, Please! Thanks to Jen’s awesome recipe it’s easy to make & tastes amazing!
  • Not a ‘rita fan? Try this delicious Champagne Grapefruit Mojito {recipe here}
  • Want to try a “healthy take” on the margarita? Try this Kale Ginger one here
  • In NYC? Do a fun Mexican themed bar crawl using either the Refinery29 “margarita map” {here} or create your own!

 

 

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

A

 

{image via French Vogue}

 

Hello Old Friends!

Makeover

Hello friends! I know it’s been a while but as you can see I have been a wee bit busy with a much needed site makeover! What do you think? Do you like? Be honest now!

The most exciting thing about this overhaul is that I will be able to share with you more content, better content and ultimately a better experience over here at Impossibly Imperfect than ever before.  From here out you’ll notice that weekly columns, aside from the “What to do this Weekend?” roundups, will begin appearing. There will be more cultivated content from fashion and beauty to interiors and entertaining, I may just toss in a few DIY projects into the mix while I’m at it.  There will be series that you can follow along with and at the end of the day, I want to hear from you, what you’re liking and what you’re not, you can find everything categorized nicely be it Fashion + Beauty, Food + Entertaining, Lifestyle or Wanderlust + NYC it’s all there.

And on one last note, all of this would not have been possible without the amazing work of Anne-Claire who was so wonderful to work with and a big thanks to my dear friend Kate for introducing us!

I hope you enjoy the new look and more importantly, stay a while to wander around!

~ A

Watercolor Madness

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What’s the best outfit to don for a walk around the breathtaking Orchid Exhibit at the New York Botanical Garden? One that helps you blend in just a bit with the bold, bright backdrop created by the 40,000+ varieties of orchids at this incredible exhibit.  Post on the show coming soon!

Outfit: Zoa watercolor blouse, PUMA jeans (old), Steven heels (last season, similar here), Vintage earrings (similar here), Zara bag (last season, similar here) and my go-to Warby Parker specs.

Easter Egg Decorating Party

With Easter tomorrow, the brunch planning is in full force. If you’re not spending the day with your family, then you’re likely spending it with your other one, your city family, which is precisely what I’ll be doing. I can’t wait, we’re all having a wonderful Easter brunch together! I think in lieu of an egg hunt to round out the day, we will partake in a little egg decorating! So much more fun, especially given it is quite chilly here. I’ve scoured my favorite places and pulled together all of the essentials you need to have one wonderful time. Even better, most of these things you already have at home!

Complete with snacks (popcorn + Easter M&Ms? DELISH!), supplies (nailpolish, check!) and viola, your beyond fabulous Easter eggs

Happy Easter Egg Decorating Kids!

A

{Images: Snacks – popcorn, eggs, m&ms; Supplies – the kit, essie, butter and julep nail polishes; The Results – ombre, marbleized, gold and b&w eggs}

Delish: Kale, Brussels Sprout & Soba Noodle Salad

Delish: Kale, Brussels Sprout & Soba Noodle Salad

Like so many people I know, I get bored with my routine eating habits pretty quickly so am always on the lookout for recipes that incorporate my favorite ingredients. I stumbled upon this recipe on Pinterest (shocking) and couldn’t wait to whip it up. I finally tested it out and absolutely love it. Not only does it bring together kale and brussels sprouts {my faves} but once you add in soba noodles, a little spice you have one tasty dish. I did a few little adjustments to the recipe by switching out the sesame seeds for sunflower seeds and add in water chestnuts for a bit of crunch, but those were just ingredients I had on hand and thought they’d go well in this dish, sure enough they did.

Check out the whole recipe over at Sprouted Kitchen, one of my favorite blogs for recipe inspiration!

Enjoy!

A

{Image and recipe via The Sprouted Kitchen}