December Recap

It is really going to be 2011? My, the years are flying by! Not to mention the month of December was an absolute blur (see: finals, holiday shopping, extended hours at work, traveling, etc.). However now that most of the holiday hustle and bustle is settling down, I have had some time to appreciate the best parts of 2010. My time spent at home for Christmas was absolutely lovely, but far too short. Here are the highlights of my holiday:

Seriously sparkly, gold nails. They are decals
made by InCoCo that my sister shared with us!

A print of a Parisian street with hot air balloons in the distance,
in an absolutely gorgeous frame from Brookie

A hand made bracelet that is oh-so-sparkly and ties with a
big bow! Perfect!

Ready to jet-set over to France with this guide
and a book on fashion bloggers. 

My homemade chalkboard that I just added to
my tiny room. (Such a fun DIY craft).

In the next week I am celebrating my best friend, Kylee's 21st birthday in Los Angeles and ringing in 2011 with my sisters in Santa Barbara. I guess I need to start gearing up for party time. Oh, the holidays!

Stockings to Stuff?

Christmas is sooooo on my radar. Just today I watched two holiday movies (Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone)! With Christmas only thirteen days away (yikes!), I couldn't help but browse my favorite sites for little "add-on" gifts for friends and family members. These are my favorite finds and top suggestions if you need some stocking stuffer ideas for a fabulous girl in your life.

Seasonal Decor by Gump's
Clutches by Felix Rey

Indulgences

Armand Diradourian, Smart Cookie Pillow

Jayson, Goldleaf Bird Ornament

Topshop, Swan Ring

Betsey Johnson, Lace Mesh briefs in leopard

Felix Rey, Love Birds Clutch

Gump's, Cupcake ornament

Topshop, Fairisle socks

Deborah Lippman, 24kt nail polish

Nars, Dovima nail polish

Jayson, gold Pineapple bowl

Fred Flare, Leopard Wrap ring

Betsey Johnson, Itsy Bitsy Dots knee socks

Gump's, Golden Wood wreath (for decoration around the stockings!)

Winter Weather Wishlist

Tonight I was planning on celebrating the end of the quarter downtown but with dropping temperatures and a plethora of Christmas movies on TV, I opted to stay in, take a hot bath, and sip some chamomile tea. I guess its just that time of year. These are a few things I wouldn't mind having around on nights like these.

Cashmere Sweaters by Sonia Rykiel
Boots by Urban Outfitters

Indulgences include:

Sonia Rykiel, Cashmere sweater

Asos, Bow gloves

See by Chloe, Pom Pom scarf

Mimi Holliday, Fete Conquine silk bra and brief

Urban Expressions, Heart clutch

China Glaze, Ruby Pumps polish (currently on my toes, and my absolute favorite)

Urban Outfitters, Festive slippers

What A Week.

I have to say... these past 9-10 days have been difficult. After losing my beloved grandmother last week every other negative event in my life has been amplified to the point where I was able to cry on demand. Such events included: Josie the Jeep going to mechanic heaven (and away from me) and finals week becoming "write as many papers as you can" week. Fortunately, this week is over in two days and then I can relax appropriately alongside my puppies, sisters, mama and pops.

While the past week has been trying, I have several things I am infinitely grateful for:

After losing my Grandma last week, my sister and I were given the opportunity to go through her clothes and take what we wished. This was like a dream come true for me. Searching through my Grandma's vintage clothes and taking whatever I wanted?? Yes, please! As I drove back to Santa Barbara last weekend with two HUGE bags full of my grandma's beautiful clothes in tow, I couldn't help but smile, shed a tear and remind myself of how lucky I was to bring a piece of her home with me. Definitely a positive spin on a rough weekend.

A handful of my finds: A satin, peach jumpsuit, a tan leather coat,
a fur stole and a comfy, red sweater.  

Grandma and Grandpa on their wedding day.
Stunning, right?

My dad. My personal new-used-car-finder. Even after en emotional week he is still willing to help me find and finance some wheels. What a guy! 

My mama. She sure knows how to cheer me up. While home last week she introduced me to the most amazing christmas store, that is stocked with pre-decorate, themed trees. There was a whole tree devoted to owls! 

A corvette themed tree.

And an owl themed tree. So cute!

My aunt and cousins, who hooked me up with eyelash extensions. I have to say, them are am-az-ing.  They are located in Santa Cruz and have great prices (about 1/4 of what you would be charged anywhere else). Their website is in the making but if you would like their contact information let me know! 

Love you forever, Grandma.

So, in honor of one of the most inspiring and beautiful women I have met, I vow to let go of the stress and anxiety I have experienced this week (as Grandma deDiego always said "Take it one day at a time") and wear some of the most amazing vintage clothes I have ever come across. Thank you for the wonderful memories Grandma. 

Let the Festivities Begin

Oh, the quarter system. So much quicker than the semester system. There is seriously zero time to slack, or for that matter, take a break. The past few weeks have been full of writing papers, making surveys, reading chapter after chapter, and then preparing to do it all over again. Luckily, I do get to take a physical break from Santa Barbara next week. Back home to Northern California I go on Tuesday for Thanksgiving break and I could not be more excited. It's the little things like playing with my puppies, cold weather, and seeing my mom and dad that make the holidays so great.

Can't wait to snuggle with Pip and Bella Lu!

This year Kate and I are planning on making big waves for Thanksgiving at our grandparents. Since we have both been following vegan diets for the past year (Kate has been longer... she's awesome), we are going to be making some new dishes that are equally delicious as they are healthy. So far I think we have agreed that these dishes are going to make an appearance:

• candied yams
• some wildly delicious salad with ridiculous amounts of veggies
• cranberry chutney with cilantro and jalapeno (courtesy of Uncle Matty from last year)

We are still brainstorming, but I will be sure to post pictures of all our tasty dishes. You are all going to wish you were invited to the deDiego Thanksgiving events each year. 

Also, my dad's side of the family has a tradition of going to dinner at a local mexican food restaurant, Little Tampico, and then hitting up the local bars for a night of fun the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and this year I get to go! Not completely legally, but we deDiego's know how to work magic (aka sister's ID). There are sure to be some classic stories and great pictures to come from this night. Stay tuned. 

Here is the skirt I am thinking will make a great fall statement for the festivities: 

Loving this!

And the best part? It's only $20 from Old Navy. I'm thinking of pairing this with a black blouse, black tight and my booties. And I'll jazz it up with some jewels. 

Really looking forward to seeing the fam, baking up some delicacies with my mama, snuggling with puppies, and fresh made espresso at my dad's house. See you soon Santa Cruz/Bay Area! 

XOXO, 

Taylor 

Meet My Pretty Friend.. and Pretty Jacket.

After weekends like the one just past, I wish that I could hang out with all of my best friends everyday, especially Kylee. We have been friend since 6th grade and although we now live in different cities and we are both constantly busy with work, school, or other projects, we do a pretty good job of staying in touch. After spending the weekend laughing, shopping, taking 20 minutes to make a single decision, and exploring LA, I couldn't help but think of how grateful I am that she and I quickly fall back into routine, even though we only see each other every month & half or so.

As always, Kylee and I went shopping in Santa Monica and did minor damage (but enough that I am living on canned food leftover in my pantry). It's dangerous when we shop together for the following reasons: (1) we have similar style, and are very good at sharing clothes so we convince each other to buy things, and (2) we are very good at rationalizing why we should spend X amount of dollars regardless of the bills we have to pay or the lack of gas in one of our cars. I think we would both agree that if we were millionaires, we would be the best dressed. :)

Anyways, while shopping in Santa Monica I scored a darling sequin jacket, perfect for work during the holidays and... our trip to Vegas! That's right! Kylee is turning 21 and we are off to Vegas in January and this sparkly stunner is definitely coming with.

Oh rose gold, I love you. 

I'm thinking jeans, white blouse, this and my nude pumps for the holidays at work. And for vegas, a black dress, this, and strappy shoes. Can't wait! Pictures to come. :)

XOXO,
Taylor

Sneak Peak: Porter Gulch Jewelry Designs

As the holidays quickly approach, many of us are beginning the whirl wind that is holiday shopping (how did this time of year come so fast yet again??). As a college student I have vowed to start my shopping early so that I am not broke come mid-December. And, I have really great news for those of you who are also getting started early: A fabulous jewelry designer, who makes hand-made unique pieces out of her NYC city apartment, is giving me the opportunity to give you all a sneak peak into her holiday line!

Brooke, the creative mind, jeweler, and talented artist behind Porter Gulch Jewelry Designs, makes pieces that are not only budget friendly but also perfectly sparkly for any holiday ensemble. Her designs are unique, yet not too trendy. She prides herself on making pieces that are subtle enough to wear multiple times a week, yet also make a statement with the most basic of outfits. Her hobby turned small business is making waves on both coasts; her signature love ring is on the hands of ladies all over California, New York City and even Australia! So here is what you have all been waiting for, the sneak peak: The Avery earrings.

The Avery earring.
Perfect with a black cashmere sweater, jeans, and boots
or that silky, gem colored holiday dress waiting to make its debut!

Hand-crafted, these stunning earrings are made with brushed sterling silver, adorned with gold chain, and topped with Pyrite stones. The stone is faceted which results in a super sparkly earring that catches the light (see: Christmas lights, fireplaces, sunshine). And best yet, no two earrings are alike, which makes them a true piece of art for your ears.  Brooke will be posting these on her etsy shop tomorrow. Selling price is $48. Be sure to snatch these up if you are in love as there is limited stock.

They're like little nests of sparkle and fun. 

Hand-crafted earrings for $48?? Unreal, I know. 

It feels so good to support an up and coming designer. I encourage you to think of Brooke when shopping for the women in your life for the holidays, as I am sure they will be thrilled with her shiny pieces (my "Taylor" necklace and "Love" ring are definitely getting their wear this season... it might be time for something new!). She is currently working with bright-colored gems that will also be apart of her holiday line. Also, note that Brooke is willing to make custom orders if you are feeling inspired by her designs but want to tweak something or create something totally new. What a doll!

XOXO,
Taylor

Silky, pretty things.

So in the past ten days or so, I have seriously scored on free clothes that I adore. How about a free Joe's silk shift dress, and a silk Huit bra that is oh-so-precious and oh-so-out-of-my-price-range. Well thanks to my favorite roommate ;) and favorite co-worker, I scored. Killer, right? Oh yes. Check out the goodies (for the sake of being classy the beautiful bra will not be making a MakingTee appearance... you're welcome Mama).

Finally found cat eye sunglasses ♥ Urban Outfitters. 

The ever-so-slightly, too short lavender dress, with silk covered buttons.

Finally did it. Been eye-ing this Eberjey romper for a solid year.

Dark nail polish. Can't get enough. (Licoln Park after Dark is unbeatable)

And I'm off to L.A. tomorrow to see my best friend and hopefully come across some gems at the Rosebowl Flea Market. Wish us luck!

XOXO,
Taylor

Paris ♥

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

I have officially started my journey to Paris, France. The dreaming has finally turned into planning. I admit however, that it is not as lavish as it may sound. The actual turning point began with a trip to the UCSB EAP office, where I was bombarded with information about applications, housing, expectations, and deadlines.  And although I had to hurry off to class, I am very excited that my journey has begun. Here are all of the things I will be dreaming about until August 2011... fantasies of course. 

So much to look forward to. 

XOXO, 

Taylor

Being Thankful.

I'm not sure if it is widely known how difficult it is to be a college student who also works. It is exhausting. And yet also fulfilling. On a day like today, when I freaked out about the amount of school work I have to do in the next three weeks, my whole world seems really small. It is much easier to see the negative side of a situation when the weight of projects, deadlines, papers, and my work holiday schedule occupy my mind... constantly. However, after all of the dust has settled and it is time to start making a dent in that pile of work and stress, I have many things to be thankful for. 

1. My sisters. B and Koop just know how to make me feel better. No matter what. And after having a little melt down about school work, internships, traveling abroad, and making money I can not express how reassuring it is to come home to a e-mail from Kate with a subject line that says "You Can Do It All". Thanks beebee. You mean the world to me. 
2. Kate. Again. She not only helps me edit my papers but also guides me through my life when I can not see the light at the end of the tunnel. Without her I may never understand the expense of studying abroad, or whether the internship I apply to is legit or not. You deserve double thanks tonight Koop. 

My pretty sister, Katelyn. 

3. Youtube. A place where I can watch video after video of yellow lab and bernese mountain puppies sleep, play, talk, etc. Instant joy. 

4. Aundrina's man who made pumpkin pie from scratch tonight. Seriously, he made it from a pumpkin. YUM!

5. Knee high socks. They rock. For day time with a skirt, and night time with sleep shorts. Yup, I love them that much. 

Bring it on Monday. 

XOXO

Taylor 

Butterflies.

"Cherish your solitude. Take trains by yourself to places you have never been. Sleep alone under the stars. Learn how to drive a stick shift. Go so far away that you stop being afraid of not coming back. Say no whenever you don't want to do something. Say yes if your instincts are strong, even if everyone around you disagrees. Decide whether you want to be liked or admired. Decide if fitting in is more important than finding out what you're doing here. Believe in kissing."

 - Eve Ensler

♥ ♥ ♥

Getting Hitched

Oh, Monday. You showed up so quickly. And after such an eventful weekend I am sad to say, I am not that happy to see you. 


Top story: This weekend my manager from A Tropical Affair married her boyfriend of four years at Casa De La Guerra in the company of good friends and family from all over the country.


 Sam and I worked all morning, anticipating the event, constantly reminding each other: "Ahhh! Geneva is getting married tonight!" and "3 more hours!".  The morning hours rolled by slowly, due to excitement and a slight hangover (one of my best friends Christine made THE strongest margaritas EVER the previous night... goodness). Fortunately, by the time 4:30 rolled around I felt better; we slipped into our dresses, refreshed makeup in the fitting rooms, and were off to celebrate!
The ceremony started just as the sun set, in the beautiful courtyard of Casa De La Guerra. The site was tastefully decorated with paper flowers (made by the bride!), mexican blankets, and sparkly lights, while the tables offered sombreros, stick-on mustaches, and maracas! Needless to say we, the attendees, were entertained all night. Over the course of the night the girls and I enjoyed authentic mexican food (including freshly made sopes and churros), sipped delicious margaritas, and fought for the attention of the most darling man on the dance floor--the red-headed, two year old. 

Geneva looked absolutely stunning as she walked down the aisle. She sported a darling A-line, mid-calf dress, adorned with pockets, and the most fabulous glitter-cover Kate Spade slingbacks. I couldn't help but tear up when I saw her. It was my first wedding that I have gone to that wasn't a family member so it felt especially meaningful. Mr. Ives is lucky to have such a lovely lady for a wife. 

Highlights of the event:

1. The flower girl continued to spread flowers around the venue well after the ceremony was over. 
2. We met and sat with a customer of the store who, ironically, is also being Katy Perry for Halloween. We bonded. She was hilarious and the girls and I agreed that she is definitely our favorite customer now. 
3. Dancing to The Strokes. 
4. Peel and stick mustaches! 
5. My boss and her husband owning the dance floor. They are absolutely two of my favorite people. 
6. Free sombreros!
7. Seeing Geneva party all night so that she would sleep easily on her way to Europe at 5am. 

I want to go to a wedding every month.

Catching Up

I think I need to play catch up. These past few weeks have held a lot of events that I have been super exciting for me.

Okay first, a big applaud to the Giants. This week we clinched the National League West champions title and are now moving on to play for a spot in the World Series (and if everything works out I might be able to go to a game). I'm elated. It has been far too long and the boys have finally shaped up. Grandpa and Dad say they will do it this year.

Next, the transfer to UCSB. Stoked. I absolutely loved my experience at city college but there is a feeling that can not compare when on a university campus. It's rad. Not to mention I might have the most killer professors. My Campaigns and College Drinking professor said these words when someone asked if we were having a final as it wasn't listed on the syllabus, "Oh yeah, no we're not. It was scheduled for a Saturday, so I said fuck that". Love her. Not to mention she is intelligent and teaches a class that is useful, fulfilling and stimulating. I digress. So glad to be at UCSB after two years of hard work. My list of must-take classes?

1. Studio art. I chatted with a girl in my feminist studies class who is a studio art major and I had an instant flashback of sitting in my high school art studio, listening to my ipod, and painting for the quickest hour of my day. If I could get school credit to sit in a studio for three straight hours, one day a week I might be the happiest girl ever. Cross your fingers that I can get into a class.

2. French. Hello?? I'm going to be in France one year from now! Gotta get practicing. Merci, oui, menage trois. That's all I've got at this point. ;)

3. More comm classes with Afifi. She is proving to be one of my favorite professors already. If any of you readers are comm majors at SBCC, she is the female version of Garard. So. Rad.

And last, but maybe most importantly, my puppies are visiting. They came to Santa Barbara with my sister on Sunday and are taking a full week vacation from my mom and stepdad. Their silly grins make my heart smile. How do I live without a dog on a day to day basis?

Princess Bella Lu

Pippa Kimball

I'll keep the good news coming. :)

Shopping Therapy

After spending the last week in bed, dealing with a strange flu bug, I was elated to finally feel better today. Enough that I actually got dressed (buh-bye PJ's!) and put on makeup! Because it was just my birthday, I had accumulated a small fortune over the weekend from generous family members and friends, which I happily spent a nice portion of today. Say hello to my beautiful new boots that are going to keep my feet happy and warm throughout fall and winter! 

Boots, Chocolate, and Violet. ♥

Amongst generous sums of money, my friends and family members also treated me to breakfast, champagne, chocolate, sunflowers, and clothing. Oh, and a fish (see above, "her" name is Violet)! What more could I possibly ask for? Well, I have to admit I have a few items coming in the mail this week  from online orders. More details and pictures to come this week!

On The Bright Side

Although I have been sick in bed for the past couple of days, I am taking this time to watch (and re-watch) all of my favorite old movies, like Let's Make Love, His Girl Friday, and The Awful Truth. I envy the women's wardrobes, filled with luxurious fur, head-to-toe beaded gowns, and diamond bib necklaces. The lifestyle of this period was so glamourous and elegant, and women were so graceful. I sometimes yearn for this type of sophistication (However, right now my sweats and old t-shirt are doing me well while I battle the flu!). I'll be resting today watching the ever-handsome Cary Grant charm many beautiful women. 

She is wearing fur at breakfast! 

Hope everyone is enjoying the start to weekend!

XOXO, 

Taylor

It's That Time of Year...

celebrating my 20th with champagne, strawberries, and homemade pizza. so lucky!

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Lusting for Flared Sleeves

In the coming months I have quite a few events that require a special dress: my birthday is in only a couple of days, my manager (and dear friend) from A Tropical Affair is getting married, and my roommate Mia is turning twenty one. Therefore, I have been browsing fall-appropriate party dresses and I may have found the winner. I am seriously digging flared sleeves this fall and this dress may take the cake. I'm thinking my black booties and bright jewelry will make this the ideal outfit for all occasions.

Darling, right?

More options later. 

XOXO, 

Taylor

On A Whim..

 The other day I was wasting time before meeting my sister, so I browsed through Forever21. It seems to me that when I am searching for a specific piece of clothing at Forever21, I can not find what I am looking for, yet when I casually browse through the racks there are numerous items I want to add to my wardrobe. How can such a huge store, filled with clothing so inexpensive play this devious trick on me? I digress. The point is I, of course, walked out with two items. But in my defense, they are darling. So here is the scoop:

1. Last winter Sonia Rykiel released her line for H&M, and a particular striped knit dress caught my eye. Seeing that I live in Santa Barbara and H&M does not have an online store, my next best option was to make a trip to L.A. I never made it to Los Angeles, however my twenty minutes of browsing through Forever21 supplied a skirt that is nearly identical to the dress.

  Sonia Rykiel Collection 

                  

           

My Forever21 Skirt

     

2. The second purchase from Forever21 requires colder temperatures than Santa Barbara is experiencing right now, but as for now a little fog will be sure to make this a go-to accessory.

Cute Gray Knit Headband! (and silly roommates)

I guess we can't give up on Forever21 all together. 

XOXO, 

Taylor

              

Good News!

Two items of good news for you dolls:

It's the first of the month, which means there are new articles going up on Society805.com today, including my interview with Kim Kardashian! Be sure to check them out.

My best friend, who is a hair dresser in Beverly Hills, will be launching her website very soon. The site will focus on all things lavish in Los Angeles, including hair styling tips, amazing recipes, and how-to guides for accentuating you living space; a definite must see! Stay tuned!

XOXO,
Taylor

Get Your Booties Ready.

Last year at this time, I was on the hunt for a pair of ankle booties. One of my dearest friends, Jaci, warned me that I should stick to a neutral color because booties were a fad that would eventually dissipate. I heeded her warning, as Jaci is a trustworthy fashion source, and bought a great pair of platform black ankle booties. I wore them all winter, with anything from tights and dresses, to jeans and casual basics. Now, as autumn prepares to make its appearance, there are a plethora of adorable ankle boots that I wouldn't mind adding to my shoe collection. Thank goodness ankle boots are sticking around, because I simply love them. After spending no more than a half an hour on ASOS, I have compiled a number of shoe boots that will be great for fall and winter weather. Think tights, skirts, long sweaters and printed scarves. Then simply add these!

I couldn't help but add the nude pair in, they are simply adorable!

Sam Edelman, Una Platform, $284

Guess, Owens Bootie, $210.63

Karen Miller, Artwork Shoe Boot, $227.48

DV by Dolce Vita, Spank Suede Bootie, $176.93

Asos,Tasty Suede Punch Out Shoe Boot, $92.68

Asos, Tamara Shoe Boot, $185.35

Asos, Tobago Bootie, $75.83

Asos, Temple Suede Bootie, $92.68

Killah, Neya Ankle Boot, $126.38

Make Clothes, Not War

The military influence on fall fashion is my absolute favorite trend thus far. Despite the neutral palette that makes up utility inspired pieces, each one makes a bold statement, even when paired with basics. Brass rivets, extra pockets and zippers, and cargo green on items like skinny jeans and fitted sweaters encompass the ideal balance of masculinity and femininity. The best part is that each of these items will pair beautifully with various patterns and textures all season, due to the use of neutral shades. I'm looking forward to the crisp autumn weather, with items like these readily available in my closet. 

1. Juicy Couture, Skyler Military Jacket, $298

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kelly Sweater, $228

3. Hive and Honey, Haley Boot, $198

4. Central Park West, Nairobi Utility Romper, $174

5. Topshop, Fleece Collar PU Biker Jacket, $125

6. Topshop, Biker Skinny Trouser, $80

7. Topshop, Leather Saddle Stitch Jacket, $310

8. Lulu, Knot Front Sandals, $135

9. Asos, Utility Skinny Trousers, $60.66

15 Minutes of Fame

Last Friday, I was given an amazing opportunity that reinforced my aspiration to become a fashion journalist. My editor at Society805 set up a one-on-one appointment for me to interview Kim Kardashian, at a "meet and greet" event in Camarillo. The socialite was promoting her signature fragrance and meeting some of her central coast fans. The experience was quite surreal, as journalists from OK Weekly and Life and Style Magazine interviewed Kim right before me. Despite my initial assumptions that I was going to be overcome with nerves, the interview went smoothly. Kim was not only focused and calm despite hundreds of screaming fans outside, but also personable and humble. She was dressed in an incredible Sass and Bide, nude strapless dress with black panelling and sky-high suede mary janes (check out Sass and Bide's lookbook on their website, every piece is incredible). Flawless. 




Witnessing the security, photographers, devoted fans and paparazzi at work confirmed that the event was not just a figment of my imagination. I can only hope there are many more events like these to come. Stay tuned!




The article will be up on Society805.com during the first week of September, so be sure to check it out! 


XOXO
Taylor 

Adorable dress right? 

To My Dad

Cheers to my dad on his 56th birthday!

My dad is a true gem. All of these years, he has been surrounded by women constantly and he still remains sane. Truly a feat, considering we ladies are quite a handful. I fondly remember him sitting through endless amounts of dance competitions, having to help make decisions about what shoes look better, and trying to decipher what all of the items on my Christmas list were. What a trooper!

Although I live in Santa Barbara now, my dad's love and support have never faltered. To this day I constantly hear: "Listen to your body" when it comes to working out, "Drink plenty of water and take some vitamins. You can take up to four a day!" when I am sick, and "I am so proud of you" when I am feeling down. Just the things you need to hear when you are away from home. :)

So, today Dad, I thank you for all of the Trader Joe's gift cards, the countless GIANT's games we have attended, the laugher you supply when you sing Earth, Wind and Fire or Roy Orbison, and the few hundred times you have checked the "vitals" in my car (let's face it, I'm not going to do it). You mean the world to me, and I love you forever.