Thursday, September 6, 2012

Eat and be merry(ed)

I'm fresh home from a lovely (number X off the season) wedding. The following nuptials went down in Atlanta, Georgia.

The blushing bride was stunning in her custom made Marchesa gown, the groom looked happier then I have ever seen him before.

Below are a few snapshots from the affair. Here here to the happy couple!


Sunday, August 19, 2012

Brunch

Friday, August 17, 2012

Fashionable early

I had a little too much fun browsing eBay and StyleBop last night. Since my birthday is coming up (90 days counts as merely, yes?!) followed by Christmas I figured, what's the harm in preparing my wishlist a little ahead this year. So without further a do, dear Santa -- behold ms Holmberg's whishlist a la 2012.

(From top left): Alexander Wang bucket bag in Navy (here), Giuseppe Zanotti boots (here), Beige sweater from Vanessa Bruno (here), Zanotti zipper boots (here), Ring from Bvulgari (here), Brown ancle boots from Miu Miu (here)

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Blue dreams are made of these

The last two weeks have been nothing but insane, permitting little time for writing and working on my pet projects.

Bachelorette party number [fill in blank] of this summer went off without a glitch. The theme off the evening was "A night in Turkey" as the happy couple will spend their honeymoon in Istanbul. We feasted on delicious Turkish food before heading over to SAX for some dancing. I rocked my all time favorite dress from ASOS -- a purple backless little number that always treat me right. 

This weekend I will head south for the PGA finals on Kiawah Island, SC. Since this is my first major (golf) tournament I am not sure what is appropriate to wear. If you are a golf-tournament-connoisseur please do share. As off now I am planning on wearing this little number ,that I picked up on the sale, during the day on the course. For the evening I would love to wear one of these lovely creations in the pictures below. Unfortunately for me I am not sure Mr Postman would stand a chance getting them delivered before Saturday (not to mention the price tag on the Matthew William Dress--gasp!). So, my back-up dress hiding in the closet from BCBG Maxazria will just have to do. For this time. 



From left: DVF-dress-extraordinaire (here);"Get-it-while-it's-hot. Enamel necklace from Fredriks + Adrik (here); Great-deal-of-a-dress from Charlie Jade (here); Dream-budget-dress from Matthew William "Escape" Collection (here

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Shop like you date

I rarely go shopping for myself during the sales for many reasons (online shopping being the exception). I am very familiar with the temptation it is to "save" 70% on "that dress". You are basically saving money by buying it right?! Listen honey, buying clothes on sale one season ahead often translates into mistakes that collect dust and take up sought after real estate in your wardrobe. When hitting the sales, it should be to stock up on high quality basic tees and items not sensitive to micro fashion. There is a reason "that dress" is hanging in the corner on the 70% off rack.

With that said, I am the first to admit that there are sometimes exception to the rule. Yesterday was that exception for me. I scored. Big time. From the Esther Oxford skirt from Mark Jacobs, to a basic tee from my all time favorite t-shirt maker James Pierce, two set off sandals for $30, and a soft, comfortable wrap to keep me warm come fall. Best thing of all, my credit card wasn't left shivering.

Here are some tips for surviving the shops during the sales:
  • Stay clear off the 75% and above sales rack. Unless you know a great tailor odds are 75% off the items coming home with you will never see broad daylight again. 
  • Wear smart clothes. A nude/light colored tank top under your cardigan/sweater with leggings, and flats makes it easier to try on clothes on the store floor. Perhaps not as classy as the Middleton's but you will thank me when the line to the dressing room is longer then your patience. Go find a mirror in a quiet area (I recommend the kids or men's section) and try on the clothes over your clothes. Please note: don't bring the entire sale section with you to try on and hang back the clothes you are not taking to the counter where you found them. You don't want to anger the already agitated mothers or staff. 
  • Shopping hungry during a sale is a no-no. You may as well just cut your losses and go home. Nothing good will come home with you on an empty stomach. 
  • Shop like you date. Knowing what you are looking for before you head to the sale. Make a mental note off what is missing in your wardrobe and what you need for the coming seasons. This will save you a lot of agony and time browsing the shops. 
Happy Shopping!

About that LBD

We have all been there. Running around the bedroom which a mere twenty minutes ago was squeaky clean wondering what happened. Clothes, shoes, and accessorizes are dispersed everywhere. In fact, the only place thats not covered in clothes is your wardrobe. Your phone keeps buzzing, the messages all say the same thing—Where are you? You should have been here 30 min ago. As you trying on outfit number five your responses are considerable shorter and you are cursing auto correct for mistaking soon for balloon. By outfit number ten you have stopped replying all together and the couch with a bowl of Ben&Jerry's is starting to look appealing. Then, just as you are about to throw in the towel all together you see it. The most loyal confidant your wardrobe ever met. Two minutes later, all glamorized and accessorized, your fly down the flight of stairs and into the cab.

The LBD, or this summers major trend the LWD, is a wardrobes best friend. Change up the shoes and accessories, add a belt or a colorful scarf. A true chameleon and given the opportunity it will present itself as a new addition to your wardrobe.

Below are some of my go-to pieces and the best friends my LBD ever seen.

Bag: Michael Kors, Cocktail ring: Express, Bracelet and Necklace: H&M

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Style + comfort = possible?


Last weekend I attended my dear friends Frida & Todd's union. It was a weekend filled with love, laughing and no sleeping. The wedding took place an hour south of the arctic circle in this little town. The sun never set and the champagne never stopped flowing. In other words it was the perfect wedding. Since I was a bridesmaid the "what-to-wear" shopping was easy. For the rehearsal party I rocked these pants from Zara matched with a red silk shirt and black stilettos. Stylish and comfortable accomplished!


 








Wednesday, July 18, 2012

the Terminal: Take two

Greetings from the airport! Again.

This past week has been amazing. Although a little nuts. From the farewell party at the Canadian Embassy to Figure Eight to present hour, patiently waiting for my flight to Sweden, which is slightly (and then slightly more) delayed.

Look forward to catching up with friends in Stockholm before continuing my trip to LuleƄ to witness my lovely gal become Mrs Brooks. The bridesmaids dress is [safely] tucked away in my carry on. My father would have been proud.

Found the most lovely flowey, printed pair of pants from Zara some days ago that I will be flaunting tomorrow night. Pictures to follow.

Xoxo
Sarah & Marie-Claire


Saturday, July 14, 2012

Life of Louie and Catie

I am spending the weekend on Figure Eight, North Carolina with Emma, her family and friends drinking Stella watching the day turn into night. Days are filled with naps in the hammock and long walks with Louie and Catie (my new found four legged friends). Dress code--ripped shorts paired with an old (men's) shirt. The coming weeks will be filled with travel and work. Today I intend to close my eyes and indulge in the smell off fresh breeze coming from the ocean while the hammock rocks me forth and back overlooking the beach.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Sartorial charisma

"...He has the mix off not giving a fuck and at the same time really give a fuck...Sartorial charisma"


Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Five under fifty


Ladies, it's time to get your sale on!

These fabulous six items (had to share the piglet ring) are just a few of many wonderful items currently on sale at Asos. All items selected above are less then $50. Meaning that my (and your) credit card will not be shivering of fright when I (you) happily submit the order.  

Oh, and they ship for free. You may thank me later.


From upper left:
John Zack Monochrome Aztec Print Dress $49.71 $34.80
Laptop Case With Metal Bar $33.14 $16.57
Matt & Nat Alya Belt $41.43 $24.86
Piglet Ring $53.02 $33.14
Oversized Bangle with Frosted Panelling $82.85 $28.17
Soft Peg Pants w/ Pleat Detail $41.43
Croc Clutch Bag  $79.54 $46.40







Sunday, June 24, 2012

Did someone order freckles?

What a lovely relaxing weekend.

Perfect weather, great friends, great food, pool time, and croquette. What else could you ask for?

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Want vs Need. That's the question

According to *MSO I have a tendency to interchange the true meaning of "need" with "want", and "practical" with "looking good, having fun".

With excitement I will call out "Honey, look at this bag. Eeeek. Isn't it just exactly what I need for work?" to which he will reply "It's cool, but it doesn't look very practical for work. Will it even fit your iPad? [insert head tilt and smile] Is it that you really need it or could it be that you want it and therefore using work as an excuse to purchase it?" Guilty!

On our way to dinner he will, with slight amusement and charm, enter into a staring competition with my 5" heels and nod to them with the look that says it all "Babe, are you going to be able to walk in those?" to which I gleefully respond "Of course. Don't be silly" as I silently admit to myself that my "looking good sitting in the bar" heels may not have been the best choice for the evening. Sigh!

I consider myself to be both practical and rational. But when it comes to something sweet as these fine items below, practical and reason does not apply, and I just can help myself.  Practical or not I just got to have them.

Happy Thursday!
From Left: Half Moon Clutch ($58) from Asos.com, Alexander Wang Diego Bag, Metallic Pumps  ($375) from Shopbob.com

  *My Significant Other

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Looking good from here

From speed boating to mingling on a sand bank in the middle of nowhere to watching soccer. All in one day. Thank you Lady Catherine for a fabulous Saturday. Looking good, having fun!

Thursday, June 14, 2012

the Terminal

Hello D.C., what a hepfa it was to get here. My trip was running surprisingly smooth. Apparently to smooth for Detroit's liking. Oy va! Infamous for being the last one on the plane (why the rush, I don't understand the rush), I settled down in my seat with the latest issue of Allure (featuring a very funny article on Elizabeth Banks by the way), waiting for take off. As I happily dove into the words of Allure time passed by. Twenty minutes, thirty minutes.... still on the runway. Then I hear it, the unmistakable sound of a dying engine followed by a conversation between a stewardess and maintain crew. "...ok, it's still not closing... change planes...aha...uha...ok, well, we don't now if there will be a plane available.....paus.....ok, the plane is grounded..."

One apologetic message from the pilot later we are off the plane, collecting our food voucher (thank's Delta). Three hours pass by, a plane has been located and we are finally good to go. Captain is happy pappy, crew is happy pappy, even the passengers are in a slightly pleasant mood. We made it to D.C.! Then it happens. The jetway won't attach. Making the passengers prisoners of the plane. What's next? At this point I don't even care about the delay's. It's the baggage claim I dread. Fast speed half an hour later we are set free. At last. And happily enough there they are,  my ride home (thank's dear) and against all odds, my luggage. Now I know how Victor Navorski (played by Tom Hank) must have felt like in the Terminal. Well, sort off. Ok, no similarities. 

To make this post less of a Debbie Downer check out these lovely things. These fun, gardenia scented, candles by Primitives by Kathy are available at Marshalls' for a mere $10/piece. If these don't make you happy pappy I don't know what will. And for the ladies, this necklace by H&M, yours for $12, may just be what the dr ordered for those glum day's when nothing in your wardrobe seem willing to take on the challenges of the day. 







Tuesday, June 12, 2012

This Little Light of Mine

Tomorrow I am heading back to D.C. It's bitter sweet. While I look forward to getting back to work and seeing my people, I really have enjoyed having time off and away from an active life in D.C. Dear post lunch nap, how you will be missed. Day time sailing, attending the 9 am Yoga class instead off the crowded 6 am class, you will also be missed.  Hours of cooking and quality time with loved ones. Leisure evenings on the porch, curled up in a blanket, a glass of red in one hand, a good book in the other.  You all will be missed. 
Cameo Candle ($35 at http://amzn.to/L3LxxX)

I'll bring back good memories and leaving stress behind. But don't worry. It won't be long till I'm back. 

Cameo by Seda France produce beautiful fragrances. With hints of Bergamont (the same ingredient that is found in Earl Grey tea) and a warm home, their L'Ambre candle makes for nice companionship when the rain is falling down and evenings on the porch are getting cooler.







Monday, June 11, 2012

The Wing Man

You know how most people dread the girlfriend/boyfriend chair? I'm an exception to the rule. I'm a great wingman when it comes to shopping. I love shopping for others, and I think many of my peeps will testify to this. Helping others find a great combination, may it be for leisure or work, is up there with having your bid on a Alexander Wang Bucket bag on eBay accepted for half the value. If you are a friend of mine, odds are you have been the recipient a message along the lines off  "Hey buddy, I found a few lovely things for you at [fill in blank]. They are on hold till tomorrow. Don't forget to swing by and take a look..."

The same goes with finding the perfect gift. From dinner parties to birthdays or weddings, finding that special little thing that makes the recipient feeling "how did I get by before?". Love, love, love it. If I could, I would bottle it up and sip it all day long. As a dear friend would say "I want to be in the making people happy business". 

Speaking of happiness. Check out these pretty sea shell earrings from H&M that I found. For a mere $6, they can be yours. So skip that fancy coffee drink and seek out the nearest H&M.




Friday, June 8, 2012

It's a Wrap

A good wrap-dress to me is what a Porsche Cayenne Turbo is to MSO*. Whether it's time for work or fun with friends, a wrap is functional as the Swiss-army knife. Customize it with your favorite boot, flats or stilettos pending on season then add a piece of statement jewelry or why not your mama’s finest pearls. Take a second to admire yourself in the mirror. Good to go. 

In addition to versatility and allure, I am yet to meet the women, may they carry their curves with saz or petiteness with grace, who do not wear the wrap with style, comfort, and wa-zam. It's a golden nugget that understands a women’s need. While it hugs where appreciated it forgives where needed (I'll have the truffle fries please).

When in a pinch, reach for the wrap.  And if you do find yourself in need of a new one, please feel free to indulge in some lovely option below.

Straight from work to a night out, summer has never looked hotter.


From left: Printed Dresshirt ($285) available for sale here; Striped Dress ($295 $177) buy it here; "Burning Torch" Dress ($305) available for sale here; "Julian" Wrap Dress ($365) buy it here  

*My Significant Other








Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Lavender Blue(s)

Recently I am loving blue mixed with a hint of lavender. I find this particular hue to be delicate and graceful yet flirtatious with a "sparkle in the eye" effect. Color me blind but I think it's what Audrey Hepburn would be like, was she a hue.

Being taken by the color [and flower] lavender started some, and then some years ago. Around the same time my parents made the decision to reallocate to the South Pacific. Upon their departure, my mother gave me a [potted] lavender which, beyond odds, survived the full year.

While on the subject of flowers I would like to give a special shout-out to fresh cut flowers. From "Monday blues" to "Won't have time to clean before the in-laws arrives", fresh cut flowers is da bomb in every pinch. Where there is a saying that the way to a mans heart is through his stomach, it may very well be that a short cut [besides new shoes, be it hiking or stilettos] to a woman's attention and affection spells "fresh-cut-flowers."

To the gents out there. If you only knew how much you could get away with, simply by getting your significant other flowers unexpectedly on a regular basis. Remarkable. While I can't promise that you will get away with forgetting anniversaries or conveniently having to "skip out from town" when mother-in-law is expected, you most likely will get that extra love and attention...as being in less trouble for "forgetting" to pick up yours beloved at the airport or spending Sunday afternoon playing "Demon Souls". Ladies-- can I have an amen!?

If not so inclined to potted or fresh cut stems requiring nurturing, these scrumptious two-bite sized delicacies may just be the perfect solution come summer rain blues or "sorry I shrunk your cashmere sweater." 

Enjoy!





Summer where art thou?!

Waking up to grey skies and rain = dedicated time for online shopping and consumption of apple pie. Also on today's schedule, bikram yoga, as well as an serious effort to up my Spanish skills. Oy va!

Being temporary unemployed agrees well with me.