August 19, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS


Before I get into any links, I wanted to bring attention to the most important weekend link. If you have anything to give, please consider giving to the Red Cross to help people affected by the Louisiana Floods. This is the worst natural disaster in the US since Hurricane Sandy.



Last weekend at Poco Dolce

August 15, 2016

POSTGRAD LIKES: POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX - JULY FAVORITES

This month, POPSUGAR sent me a Must Have Box to try out some new products. I love getting the Must Have Box, it's always full of awesome product that is useful and fun. Here are my favorites for July.

POPSUGAR MUST HAVE FAVORITES

1.  Pintrill, Pineapple Pin $12 -- Pins have really  been making a comeback and I'm so happy about it. I loved this little pineapple pin to add to my denim jacket for a fun touch. 
2. Sunny Life, Swan Drink Floatie $18 -- I loved this floating swan drink holder, can't wait to bring it on a bachelorette party next month!
3. Michael Stars, Porcelain Skinny Scarf $30 -- This skinny scarf from Michael Stars is perfect to tie on a bag or bandana-style around my neck. The black and white print is perfectly neutral. 
4. European Wax Center, Brow Highlighter $18 -- I had never tried any European Wax Center products until this arrived in my box, and it's amazing! It's a nice champagne color, so it is not too white, and blends really nicely. I also use it in the inner corners of my eyes and on my cheek bones. A+.
5. House of Pom, Emojii Cocktail Napkins $25 -- These napkins just make me happy. They are featured front and center on my bar cart right now. 


If you want to try out POPSUGAR's Must Have Box, use code 'SHOP5' for $5 off your first box! 


POPSUGAR sent the Must Have Box in exchange for review. All opinions are my own.

June 30, 2016

POSTGRAD LIKES: POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX

I have a love/hate relationship with subscription boxes. I have tried several and they have been very hit or miss. POPSUGAR sent me a Must Have Box for review and I was game to review it, as I had heard it was an awesome subscription service and was interested in trying it out.


When the box arrived, it was like a mini christmas. It was so fun to find great products inside. It didn't feel underwhelming, or as though the box had a lot of filler items. 

What the box included:
 -- Hat Attack Neutral Diamonds-Printed Sarong
-- Sisters of Los Angeles "Cheers" Gold Bottle Opener
-- Wild and Wolf Ridley's Games Room "Who Am I?" Quiz
-- NCLA Born on the 4th Nail Lacquer
-- Knock Knock Are You Ready (For Your Close-Up?) Compact
-- Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes
-- Pressels Sriracha



I like the Must Have Box better than other subscription box services I have tried because the items are full sized (not samples) and it's a variety of products. Plus, the value is amazing -- over $120 worth of products for $39.99. 

 My favorite items are the bottle opener, sarong, and party game. I think I am going to get a lot of use out of all three -- especially over the long holiday weekend! The deodorant wipes have also been great to keep in my gym bag.

If you want to get a #MustHaveBox, follow this link and sign up for next month's!


POPSUGAR sent the Must Have Box in exchange for review. All opinions are my own. 

June 24, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

May 27, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

Finally, it's time to kick off summer! I am sticking around the city for the weekend, and crossing my fingers for warm weather. Annnnddd doing lots of shopping. One thing I love about holidays is there is a guarantee of sales all around. Below the Friday links, I have a running list of Memorial Day sales, and I'll add to it as the weekend goes on.

Happy weekend and Memorial Day! xx





MEMORIAL DAY SALES!
Clothing
Free People - Extra 25% off sale
Home

Other


May 26, 2016

INSTAGRAMS TO FOLLOW

It's pretty evident that at this point, Instagram is here to stay. For me, it's my favorite social media to browse for inspiration and I am finding fantastic new accounts daily. I wanted to share a few of my favorites as of late.


@milkandpancakes
Italy is maybe my favorite place in the entire world, so I love following this account to see peeks of Rome. Plus, I really miss the food and coffee so I can live vicariously through this account!


@TheAcademyNewYork
This account posts three successive photos that are all related in someway or another. It's very creative, aesthetically inspiring, and often times hilarious. Probably the most unique and interesting account I follow.


@TasteofStreep
This one is just for the laughs. I really want to know how this idea come about. I literally laugh out loud every time this account pops up in my newsfeed. And I love Meryl! 



May 20, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS


Last night I went on a lady date with my best friend to see the new SF MOMA. When it first closed for renovations, I remember thinking that three years was going to be forever, and wondering if I would even still live in SF when it reopened. Well, it's reopen and I'm still here! The new space is absolutely amazing, and so much bigger than the previous space. It's by far my favorite museum in the city. I highly, highly suggest a visit if you get the chance. And don't miss Clyfford Still.

Have a good weekend xx. 

Via my Instagram

May 16, 2016

POSTGRAD FINANCE: THREE WAYS TO SPEND LESS MONEY

Between all the apps and online shopping we have access to, it can be easy to wonder where your money disappears each month. I have been making a conscious effort to be more savvy with my spending, and I wanted to share three easy ways to cutback on mindless spending.

Image via Dagne Dover

1. Unsubscribe From Promo Emails -- My mom is a wise (and financially savvy) lady, and she once told me "There will always be another sale". Those words really stuck with me, especially when I see stores having promos more and more often. If you are buying something you truly need or want, another sale will come around. If you are on a budget, unsubscribe from emails from stores you shop in. When you don't get the email announcing a 24 hour flash sale or 30% off this weekend, you won't get sucked in to buying things you don't need.

2. Stop Ordering Delivery -- On lazy days, especially Sundays, it's so easy to just tap your phone a few times and have food delivered through one of the hundreds of delivery apps available. It easily turns in to a habit. However, with delivery fees and tips, it can easily double the price of a meal. Instead, stock up on some healthy, frozen meals to eat in case of emergency.

3. Cancel Recurring or Subscription Services -- When you set up a service with recurring payments, it's easy to just forget about the cost. Really think about if you use services like Netflix or Spotify, and if you can live with out them. Also look into which ones you can share with a friend or significant other (like Netflix!). In terms of subscriptions, do you really need bacon of the month club? or new athleisure every weekend? Really weigh if it is cost effective, necessary, or brings you joy. I quit Fabletics and Netflix, but I stayed subscribed to Book of the Month because it fits those parameters.

May 13, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

I've been on a real cooking kick lately and recently picked up Gwenyth's new cookbook It's All Easy. I spent a good chunk of time flipping through it and marking the recipes that I wanted to make. My feelings on it are pretty 50/50, maybe more like 70/30, in that the cookbook has some recipes that are simple, unique, and look wonderful. But then there is also recipes for avocado toast and grilled cheese with tomato soup. I think if a few recipes had been edited out, the cookbook would be stellar. Anywho, I'm excited to get in the kitchen this weekend with a couple of the recipes!

image via 

May 11, 2016

POSTGRAD LOVES: BOOK OF THE MONTH CLUB

Recently, a Facebook ad caught my eye (finally, good for something!), advertising a book subscription service, plus a discount code to boot. The gist of Book of the Month Club (BOTM), is that each month they have a curated list of 5 books, give you a brief synopsis of each, and you choose which one you want mailed to you. The cost of the service includes shipping, so there is no extra fee after you pay for your subscription (unless you want more than one book from that month's selections -- you can order extra at $10 a piece).

I like this model because it still gives you a choice in what to read. Honestly, I get really lost on Amazon and end up with such a long list of books that I don't buy any. BOTM gives a nice variety of books and honestly I've had a hard time choosing just one.

When my first book, The Nest, arrived, I was so happy to see the book was a beautiful hardcover copy, well worth the money! The April Guest judge was Ellie Kemper (love her!!), and I chose her selection so I got that sweet I <3 Ellie sticker too. Loved the book by the way... keep an eye out for a review coming up!

The current pricing is:
1- Month plan for $16.99
3-Month plan for $44.97 ($14.99 per book)
12-Month plan for $143.88 (11.99 per book)
You can also always skip a month at no additional charge if you don't like any of the selections.

Also, if you want to sign up, they are running a promo for the month of May, use code MAY30 to get 30% off of a 3 month subscription! You can sign up here: Book of the Month Club.

May 10, 2016

SAN FRANCISCO: GOOP MRKT

When I heard Goop was popping up shop on Maiden Lane this month, I knew I had to stop by. 


140 Maiden Lane is inconspicuous from the outside, but the inside is absolutely breath taking. It was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright (huge fan over here!), and is a bright space with mid century modern details, plus an absolutely stunning staircase. If the staircase looks familiar, that's because it was inspired by the famed staircase at the Guggenheim in New York. The American Institute of Architecture actually named the space one of Wright's 17 essential works. 

Steven Volpe was brought in to do the decor, while Flora Grubb Gardens installed all the greenery. It all came together in a way that felt modern, while paying homage to Wright and his vision.


The products in the pop-up were as expected: Beautiful, luxurious, and outrageously expensive. There were gaggles of women trying face creams, others ooohing and ahhing over the full kitchen set up, and a few gently flipping through racks of luxury yoga wear.

I was in awe of the entire thing.


I really wanted to take a home a souvenir and I had my eye on a copy of "It's All Easy". I wanted to take a piece of the store home with me, but a quick Amazon search showed Gwyneth's latest cookbook at 40% off, so you know I hit that 1-click order and walked out empty handed.

Goop MRKT is open through May 22nd.

May 5, 2016

5 PODCASTS YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO

I am a regular podcast listener while I am working and commuting, so I wanted to share my 5 favorites. I prefer highly edited and produced podcasts that focus on storytelling, so if that's up your alley than give these ones a try! 



1. Monocycle by ManRepeller -- Man Repeller was the first blog I ever read (I think in 2010..?) and followed religiously. I loved Leandra's quirky style, and her hilarious and insightful writing. It's been pretty incredible to see the evolution of the site and see Leandra become a force in the fashion world. I recently started listening to her podcast, Monocycle, and I ran through every episode very quickly. Leandra is so intelligent and well spoken. She really hits the nail on the head of so many topics that I found myself saying "YAAAASS" and nodding along through almost every episode. I find that she really encourages positive thinking and self awareness without being too new age, as I find some other podcasts and authors. Bottom line, it's completely relatable and you will feel like someone else really gets it.

Favorite Episodes: Vulnerability, Fashion Week is Funny, Saturday State of Mind, Self-Sabotage



2. Reply All -- Gimlet Media produces quite a few awesome podcasts, but Reply All is my favorite. In a nutshell, it explores the human side of the internet. Make sense? No, not really, but give it a listen and you will understand. The stories are captivating and the hosts are hilarious, they really have a gift for storytelling. (Surprisingly Awesome is another Gimlet podcast that deserves a mention!)

Favorite Episodes: The Time Traveler and The Hitman, This Proves Everything, The Art of Making and Fixing Mistakes, Exit and Return





3. Modern Love -- A podcast version of the New York Times popular series, Modern Love has different celebrities read essays that are submitted by readers on the topic of love. It's really fascinating, heartwarming, and funny. The podcast truly explores all different facets of love and the complications that come along with it. It really just embodies what it is to be human. Plus, they have bonus episodes with further commentary and listener stories relating to the previous episode, which I really enjoy.

Favorite episodes: Missed Connections, A Faithful Leap, A Millennial's Guide to Kissing, A Second Embrace



4. Planet Money -- While economics are not my forte, this podcast really grabs my attention and keeps it for the full episode. They explain all things money and economics, and answer several questions that you probably had but never articulated. Like why are Birkin bags so expensive? Why do we tip? How do matzo manufacturers make money? The podcast is equal parts economics, history, and social commentary. All the episodes are very fascinating.

Favorite Episodes: The Fondue Conspiracy, Bagging a Birkin, How Stuff Gets Cheaper



5. This American Life -- Okay, so if you have ever listened to a single podcast, you definitely know about This American Life. But there is a good reason it is so popular. It really delves deep into the issues facing our society as American's, but in a very digestible manner. Some episodes will wrench your heart, some will have you crying with laughter, and a lot will do both. The story telling is the best that I have listened to, and the amount of love and hard work poured into every episode is evident. Also, I want Ira Glass to read to me every night while I fall asleep. A little odd? Maybe, but I love his voice.

Favorite Episodes; Harper High School Part 1 and Part 2, The Incredible Rarity of Changing Your Mind, Cops See It Differently Part 1 and Part 2

May 4, 2016

101 IN 1001


How many times have you thought, "Oh I would love to learn how to surf!", "I should volunteer more" or "I've been meaning to try that restaurant/bar/museum"?



I am trying to make a conscious effort toward living an intentional and fulfilling life. Which includes actually doing, and not just setting vague, lofty plans with no deadline. So, I am going to participate in the 101 in 1001, which means 101 goals in 1001 days. This list idea comes from Mackenzie over at Design Darling, who is the middle of her second round. It's been inspiring to keep up with her progress, as well as other participants, so I decided to give it a shot and see if it will keep me on track to shape my life to match how I imagine it.

I actually decided to start this list at the beginning of the year, but I still need to finish it. If you want to see what I have so far, or follow along and see if I can actually complete 101 goals, click the  "101 in 1001" at the top of the page.

April 29, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

Last week's trip to Scottsdale was a blast. I had such a good time visiting a new city, relaxing, and connecting with old friends. It just really fed my soul and gave me exactly what I needed. I think everyone can agree that it's easy to get caught up in the day to day whirlwind that we all experience, so it can be hard to keep in touch and have meaningful connection with friends. Going forward, I am definitely going to work on checking in with friends in other cities more often, and also spending more intentional time with my friends nearby.


If you are in SF this weekend, be sure to check out Renegade Craft Fair or the Urban Air Market (or both!). Both events feature awesome local makers and you will be sure to walk away with some amazing things.


My favorite little cactus in Scottsdale last weekend.

April 28, 2016

POSTGRAD LOVES: CASLON

Yesterday, as I was walking through Nordstrom, a rack of clothes caught my eye. Judging on the style, I thought it was Splendid. To my surprise, it was actually Caslon, and in house Nordstrom brand. From what I knew about Caslon, I was pleasantly surprised by the pieces. The current collection is full of linens in breezy blues and neutrals, boho accents, and really relaxed silhouettes. I picked out a few of my favorite pieces below, but seriously, check it out next time you are at Nordstrom! Everything looked even better in person. I am really crushing on the jumpsuit (I can never have enough), the sandal, and the peplum top below.

Even better, the pieces are pretty reasonably priced and I have found that Nordstrom brands go on sale pretty frequently.

POSTGRAD LOVES: CASLON

April 27, 2016

SKINCARE UPDATE

If I'm going to be real, skincare kind of overwhelms me. It seems like as of late, there are a million people saying you need a trillion products. Eye cream, serum, anti aging, moisturizer, face masks, cleanser, toner... the list goes on. I've been lucky to have pretty good skin my whole life, so I've really just stuck with my same Neutrogena face wash and a little moisturizer, but that's about it as far as my skincare routine goes.

Well, with my 20's came some changes in my skin and I've added some really awesome products to my skincare regimen. 



1. Murad Acne Spot Fast Fix $18 - This spot treatment has worked really well for me. It's not as quick to get rid of acne as some others that I have tried, but it's much gentler on my skin (and it doesn't bleach my sheets!). It contains 3.5% benzoyl peroxide, so it's perfect for smaller, occasional blemishes. It also has nearly no smell which I like because other spot treatments I've tried had a very strong chemical smell.



2. Boots Botanics Facial Oil $9 - My skin seems to be getting drier, so I really wanted to try out a facial oil as a moisturizer. This one had amazing reviews online and is only $9 so it's definitely worth a try. It is very, very moisturizing, yet doesn't feel too heavy or clog pores. I apply it at night before bed, and in the morning if I am wearing makeup. My skin has been noticeably brighter, glowy-er (is that a word), and plumper than before. A little also definitely goes a long way, so a single bottle lasts awhile. 


I'm still working on improving my skincare routine, so if you have any words of advice or holy grail products, please share! 

April 8, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

It's Friday, let out that big sigh of relief. How was your week? Mine was full of ups and downs and I was definitely running on empty this morning. Thankfully the weekend ahead will give me time to rest and recharge. On the schedule is visiting a new coffee shop and hitting up a sample sale of several awesome local brands with a friend (Baggu, Ali Golden, Gravel & Gold, and Voyager).

I also bought this Italian Cookbook, but haven't had a chance to make any recipes yet. I'm putting together a little menu from this cookbook for a stay at home date night. Everything looks delicious and beautiful, so it's hard to narrow it down! Right now I'm leaning towards

  • Pasta Pugliese con Polpette Di Giovanna (Pugliese pasta with Giovanna's meatballs)
  • Burrata E Fagliolini (burrata and green beans)
  • Insalata Di Cavolfiore (Roasted Cauliflower Salad)


Image Via

April 7, 2016

SPRING SCARF REFRESH

I've been seeing silk scarves and bandanas worn tied around the neck lately and it's pretty damn cute. With the right outfit, it adds a focal point of interest and a cool girl vibe. 

If you want to try out the trend, make sure to keep your outfit neutral and also stay away from pairing with feminine pieces. When worn with feminine outfits, the neck tie can veer into stewardess territory. Denim on denim is always a safe bet!

So neck tie, yay or nay?









April 6, 2016

POSTGRAD LOVES: LE SPECS

I always have my eyes peeled for brands that offer quality products at affordable prices. Sunglasses can be a difficult one, as most brands tend to operate on either the designer end or the very cheap end. Le Specs falls squarely in the middle, with most pairs under $70. They offer a wide selection with styles that range from classic to uber trendy, with tons of pairs that are a good mix of both. 

I ordered a pair from the Shopbop Friends and Family sale and I can't wait for them to arrive just in time for the weekend. The sale continues through April 7th and everything is 25% off! 



POSTGRAD LOVES: LE SPECS


1. No Smirking $79
2. Neo Noir, $59
3. Savanna, $59 (I ordered this pair!)
4. Le Debutante, $69
5. Le Debutante, $64
6. Naked $64
7. Hermosa, $31



April 1, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

Some random thoughts for a Friday... I've been reading and hearing a lot about morning routines and how important they are. I start work extremely early and I have a long commute, so my mornings are basically waking up at the last minute, brushing my teeth, changing, and running out the door with a banana. I started wondering if I am doing it all wrong and had to gently remind myself that I am just not a morning person and not to believe everything I read on the internet :).

Instead, I feel like I benefit from having a nightly routine. Each night I clean up my apartment, prep my lunch and coffee for the next day, stretch or foam roll, and try to fit in some reading. The mindless gets me in a nice zen mode right before bed, and since I am prepared for the next day I feel less stressed.

Moral of the story: Do what works for you. And sleep in.

Image Via

March 28, 2016

WEDDING GUEST DRESSES UNDER $50

Everyone is well aware that attending a wedding can be very expensive. Then if you have multiple in one season it starts adding up. I rounded up dresses under $50 that are stylish and versatile so you don't have to stress over what to wear to any upcoming nuptials.



WEDDING GUEST DRESSES UNDER $50





March 25, 2016

FRIDAY LINKS

Fending off some sickness this week has left me feeling pretty bleh. This weekends forecast includes a lot of time on the couch with Netflix and vitamin C. Anyone know any foolproof cold remedies?Hope your plans are a little more exciting ;) xx.