Mar
2014

Lusting Over Loren Hope

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I’ve been a fan of Loren’s pieces for as long as I can remember, but when I caught wind of her spring and summer collection (via Note to Self), it literally stopped me dead in my tracks. The pieces themselves, the overall styling of the collection…. I didn’t think I could want for summer any more! I’m absolutely mesmirized by these photos. The lookbook itself, design by Sarah as well, is simply stunning. Here are a few pieces I’m most excited about….

The Sarra Cuff in Coral | The Pippa Bibb Necklace | The Vera Earrings in Pixie | The Sophia Studs in Emerald | The Blythe Necklace in Lilac

What’s your favorite?

All Images via Loren Hope

Mar
2014

Smoked Paprika Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Lime Dipping Sauce

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Please tell me you’re as obsessed with that Pharell Williams’ song as I am. Please. I can’t even admit to you how many times I listened to it on the plane to and from California. It’s so addicting! And it really does make you happy! I’ve now resorted to googling dance videos of the song performed by other people (Boston University’s and Studiomates’ versions are legit, in case you were wondering).

Also on the list of things currently making me happy? Daaaaaaylight savings. That extra hour of light on Sunday evening was like a breath of fresh air. Throw in the fact that it’s going to be 56° this week and I am one hell of a happy camper. Here’s to a great week!

Smoked Paprika Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Lime Dipping Sauce adapted from Sally’s Baking Addiction
Serves 2

For the Fries:

One large sweet potato, peeled and thinly sliced into long fries
heaping 1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 teaspoons corn starch (per large potato)
olive oil

Dipping Sauce:

1/3 cup mayo (or 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream)
juice of 1/4 of a lime
3/4 tsp Sriracha
1/4 tsp salt only if using yogurt or sour cream

Preheat your oven to 400°. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place potatoes in a large bowl, sprinkle with corn starch, and toss well to coat. Place potatoes in an even layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and paprika, and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping fries 15 minutes in so they crisp on all sides. While the fries cook, mix together the ingredrients for the sauce. Let cool slightly and serve immediately.

Mar
2014

Life Lately | March 7th |

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Morning, friends! Greetings from sunny SoCal. This weather is working wooonders on my spirit. Though I’m out here for work, I’ve been keeping mostly east coast hours, so late yesterday afternoon I shut down my computer a little early a took a long walk along the beach. I ventured into to my beloved Lemonade for a large icey beverage, and then ventured back through the streets of Venice. Once I was in Santa Monica, I circled back to the water. And even though the sun was down and it was kind of chilly at that point, it felt so good to just sit and watch the water. To just sit, be quiet, not stare at my phone, or be on a subway. I’m planning to do a whole lot of the same today and take a little personal time for myself while I’m still here. You know I’ll be gramming, so you can follow along here. It’s been a busy one so no links this week…. but I’ll be back here on Monday with an amazing recipe that involves sweet potatoes (in the form of French fries of course). Cheers to the weekend! xoxo

Mar
2014

Prepping for Mexico…

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In just a few short weeks I’m off to Mexico for my bestie’s bachelorette! I’m stoked. The trip could not come at a better time. Naturally, in order to prepare, I’ve rounded up all my must have beach items for some time in the sun and sand:

1) A classic floppy hat

2) A sexy black one piece to match the hat perfectly

3) A delicate gold necklace that easily goes from day to night

4) Snapseed, my current fave instagram app, to document the trip in style

5) A great read (can’t wait to dive into The Goldfinch!)

6) Bright red lips to make a statement, because I certainly won’t be wearing any other makeup

7) The cutest chunky sandals

8) A colorful graphic beach tote

9) Quality sun protection that’s paraben free

10) Some great round sunnies, in tortoise, of course.

Do you have any fun trips planned to get you through this final stretch of winter weather? Any must have beach buys? I’d love to hear!

Mar
2014

The Month Ahead: March

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One of the behind the scenes things I’ve been working on for the blog is a more sophisticated look to some of the content. In all honesty, when I switched from Channeling Contessa to Clara Persis, I started to feel like I was trying to force my old content into the new space. Sure, the words could be the same, but I knew I needed a different feel for the graphics. So I enlisted the help of uber talented graphic designer, Sharon McMullen of Ink & Mortar, to help me bring the images and graphics I envisioned to life. This post marks the first launch of this work, and the start of a new series that succinctly captures my month ahead. I couldn’t be more thrilled, and reallyhope you guys like it!

Now, I’d so love to hear… what do you have on tap for March?