My San Francisco style tip: layer it up, girlfriend! We’ve now been living here for two months, and I finally think I’ve mastered my NorCal layering style. Several of you have reached out asking for advice for your upcoming Bay Area trips – what to wear, where to eat, what to see, etc. While I don’t have a city guide yet (and won’t for a while… because we just moved here and literally barely know my own way around #truestory), I do have some style tips!
Check the weather.
The weather can change on a dime and there are literally 33 microclimates and this city is 7 miles x 7 miles. Plus the weather on one side of the bridge is different than the opposite side, etc. So your best bet is to check the weather, layer your clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes!
For July and August the range of weather in our neighborhood has been upper 50’s to upper 60’s with major wind. I’m talking aggressive wind. Wind so intense that I can’t even hear my air pods when they’re at full volume. So that can also make it feel chillier than it is!
On the note of comfortable shoes –
This city is packed with buildings, humans and dogs, but the actual city is not that big. Y’all know I’m a MAJOR heels girl, but our favorite ways to get around so far have been to walk or Scoot, so comfortable shoes (preferably sneakers) are a must! I recently took the plunge on my first pair of Vans from Nordstrom and I think they’re going to be an asset this year.
Don’t worry… as soon as we leave San Francisco next summer I plan to return to all my heels! I tried to wear a pair on Sunday for 4-5 hours and two miles of walking later I was like, this was definitely a mistake.
As for the Purse…
You guys know I’m a bag fanatic. I even dedicated a whole blog post to my most and least worn luxury bags. But when you’re on your feet walking several miles a day… it can be a drag to have a heavy bag on your shoulder. I’ve been really utilizing belt bags and backpacks when I can, especially on the weekends. Nordstrom has such a great selection of both! Check them out here and here.
And truthfully… if you really want to fit in in San Francisco you can just wear yoga leggings, a hooded sweatshirt and Patagonia jacket. That’s essentially the uniform here, and honestly with the weather – it makes sense.
Are you guys ready for some fall outfits? Or are you soaking up the last few weeks of summer? I feel like we’ve skipped summer this year, so I’ve been wearing fall clothes since July and honestly… I’m fine with it.
Bring on the layers! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
If you follow CBL on Instagram, you have probably already seen this nook. Our apartment has these partial built-ins in two rooms, and because the shelves are only about five inches deep they’re a little odd to style.
I used to have this print in our OC townhouse that went with the coastal theme of our living room. In this space I wanted to take away some of the beachy vibe and replace it with a few modern touches. I thought the easiest and least expensive way to do that was through throw pillows and art.
You guys… I am in love with the way this turned out! I think the black and white art adds a matureness to the space. Great art doesn’t have to be expensive, so I wanted to round up some of my favorite black and white affordable picks:
– welcoming some new gorgeous plants (from Home Depot in the Bay Area) to our apartment that literally bring me joy every single day – I’m such a plant lady! –
– trying to get more creative with avocado toast – my latest favorite being salt flakes, tomatoes and balsamic glaze –
– the cutest headband that reminds me of my 2nd grade school days (I was a big headband wearer) –
– a new ultra long wear lip stain that is going to be my new bff (color is chic rosewood) –
It’s almost the weekend, y’all!! I’ve had the most chill schedule the past few weeks, and I’m soaking it up because September is going to be a real doozy with travel. To be honest though, I think knowing I have these waves of heavy work travel and also mellow downtime makes me appreciate each for what they are, you know?
This week I had one of the best days I’ve had all month! I had a friend’s mom (our moms were in each others weddings, have known us since birth, etc.) come in town on a whim and we had long, beautiful lunch at a bucket list spot (the Rotunda in Neiman Marcus). This special lady just faced a scary health battle and is thankfully on the other side and doing SO well, so being with her is truly a celebration of life. It was the best day, in the best company and really filled my tank! It was like going home for a day.
Then, as if the day couldn’t get any better, I got a lot of home decor packages I’ve been looking forward to to help complete our apartment. Stay tuned for details on them next week! I’ll be dedicating a whole blog post to them because they are truly that fabulous (and affordable – which makes it even better).
This weekend we have a little bit of CBL work to do, and I’ll be helping Christian pack for his upcoming trip to… China. He’s going for work and between the two of us, he’s definitely more of the adventurous traveler, so I’m excited for him to have this experience!
I’d love to hear what you guys have going on this weekend! And who’s been to China!? Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –
Everything comes back again… and if you told me 10 years ago we would be wearing Birkenstocks and wearing fanny packs I would have said, “huh?” Yet here we are.
I don’t hop onboard with every trend, but there are definitely a few 90’s trends I can get down with. And one of the best places to find some of these trendy pieces – eBay, my friend! You can find pretty much anything on eBay, both vintage and brand new.
But let’s get into some of my favorite ways to rock the 90’s in 2018 –
90’s-Inspired Tees
I can’t get enough of tees right now. I wear them with skirts, high waisted denim, under blazers – you name it. Levi’s has brought several of their classic logo styles back including this one, which I love!
Sneakers With Everything
This is a trend I’m definitely fully embracing right now living in San Francisco. Between walking Bailey and running errands, I’m walking several miles each day. I love that I can stay both stylish and comfortable pairing sneakers with basically everything. And for those of you who are really bold, you can rock the “dad sneaker.” I’m still observing that one from the sidelines, but if you’re into it, you can find tons on eBay!
Fanny Packs AKA Belt Bags
I initially felt the same way about belt bags as I did about backpacks: not for me. Then I slowly dipped my toe in the water, and before I knew it, I was fully immersed. They’re practical, great for travel or playing tourist in your own city, and can be worn in more modern styles that are a little more chic and a little less Disney tourist.
Below I’m linking some additional 90’s-inspired pieces I love from eBay. I’d love to hear any old school trends that you’re bringing back. Or even any that you definitely don’t plan on trying again. Spill it, sister!
Don’t forget that you can check out the most current promotions on their Daily Deals page… I’m talking like, 60% off Macbooks, discounts on camera equipment, iPhones, etc. Okurr! AND know that over 80% of the products listed on eBay are actually brand new.
We live right next to a park, and since we’ve moved into our new apartment I’ve thought, “we should definitely plan a picnic this summer.” So I wanted to get some things together for a cute little happy hour picnic date… and then I thought about San Francisco’s major wind blowing everything over, keeping drinks cold, logistics, etc…
Enter an indoor picnic! I was like, you know what? Let’s open all the windows, put on some Leon Bridges and have this party inside. No regrets!
Our summer has been a little more stressful than others because of our move, and I wanted to slow down, enjoy a summer afternoon and savor these moments we have together. Let’s be honest, there’s no better way to have a happy hour date than with a cold Stella Artois and a cheese plate.
So let’s get into my tips for planning the perfect happy hour in your own place –
Your Besties, S/O, Pets –
Not that having a clean house to yourself isn’t something to celebrate (because it totally is), but my favorite happy hours are when I get to sneak in some quality time with Christian or catch up with my girlfriends. And that includes Lula and Bailey, obviously.
Cold Beer
Is there anything better than a super cold beer? Christian and I have been drinking Stella Artois for years. I love a cold Stella after a long work week, and after going to Sundance with them and learning even more about their company, I love a cold Stella even more!
A quick trick I learned is if you’re trying to cool down a room temperature can: stick it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Seriously though, set a timer! Do not freeze that bad boy by mistake!
Snack Time
Where there are drinks, there should be bites. My go-to for hosting a get together is a cheese and charcuterie plate. When styling a cheese board, my must-haves are:
At Least Three Different Cheeses | I typically go for a sharp white cheddar, goat cheese and brie.
Nuts | My favorite are truffled almonds!
Olives | I go for blue cheese or almond stuffed.
Dried Fruit | Apricots are my pick.
Fresh Fruit | Grapes are a always a great idea as well as figs if they’re in season!
Meat | Salami or prosciutto are usually crowd pleasers.
Mustard, Preserves | To add some bite –
Crackers | Some assorted crackers are even better.
Music
You gotta set the mood! Leon Bridges and John Mayer are easy choices. You can check out some of my playlists here and here.
Blankets and Pillows
If you want to have an outdoor picnic or even a little floor party arrangement like we did here, blankets and pillows are key. They help create that comfortable and cozy vibe that keeps everyone lingering.
Candles, Flowers and/or Greenery
I love to light some candles and have fresh flowers or greenery. It’s not necessary but it definitely adds to the ambiance.
Games
I love having some dominoes, a puzzle or playing cards out. You would be surprised how many fun memories we have centered around a board game. We have moved three times in six years and the drawer of board games always makes the cut! Another fun thing to have is a mini polaroid camera (how I use these mini photos here) for guests to use. A fun an easy party favor!
photos by Christian Barnes
How are you slowing down and savoring the last few weeks of summer? I’d love to hear if you are a Stella-drinker as well! And now after writing this I now feel like I need another happy hour tonight… I gotta text Christian and get this on the books.
Thank you so much for reading! Tell me some of your favorite things you like to include in a picnic or happy hour with friends! XO –
Is there anything more fresh than a crisp white dress in the summer? When I saw this dress online at NastyGal, I knew I wanted it in my closet ASAP!
It’s plenty gorgeous on its own, and it’s 50% off right now which makes it under $40. It’s a little chillier in San Francisco right now, so I wanted to show y’all how you can layer it for an extra dose of luxe.
The duster. I am OBSESSED with any duster cardigan or trench. I love to layer them over dresses, jeans, shorts, the works. And this top totally gives the same vibe, so pretty!!
Because NastyGal is having such an amazing sale right now, I’m rounding up some of my favorite white midi and maxi dresses from their site. Scroll down for my picks!
– adding these black and white pillows to the den and loving them even more than I thought I would –
– a new pair of exercise leggings that make me smile – such a fun color! –
Happy Friday fab friends! I’ve been nestled in the apartment this week and it definitely feels like fall over here in San Francisco. AKA cozy time. Every morning I’ve been layering up to walk Bailey, coming back to the apartment to pour a hot cup of coffee and lighting a candle at my desk… I love it. But I hear it warms up come September/October… so we’ll see!
Christian and I watched Mrs. Doubtfire this week. I haven’t seen that movie in so many years, and we laughed so hard! Robin Williams really was on another level. The movie is filmed in San Francisco less than a mile from where we are living, so it was neat to watch with that perspective. If you know of any other SF-based movies or TV shows worth watching (of course I know about Full House and Party of Five), I’d love to hear!
We’re planning on playing tourists again this weekend, seeing a comedy show and exploring the city. Even though Christian is on call every weekend, we’ve never had this much time together so consistently, so it’s something I definitely don’t take for granted.
Hope y’all have a beautiful weekend! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
A few months ago I shared this post of my favorite Amazon purchases over the past year, and the response was so amazing! I loved hearing some of your favorite Amazon buys, and I thought the comments were really so helpful.
SO, after purchasing a lot of things this summer (big surprise), I wanted to use this week’s wish list to hash out some of my favorites as of late.
1 & 2 | I recently bought this bendy tripod that works for both my new small camera and my larger DSLR. I haven’t gotten to use it a ton yet, but I already know it’s going to be great for travel. I’ve also shared this dog bedhere, but Bailey has loved it so much. So many of you have also bought it for your pets, and I’ve loved seeing photos of your furry ones enjoying it too!
3 & 4 | Being in a cooler climate in San Francisco, I’ve noticed I’m not drinking as much water as I typically do. I bought this gigantic tumbler and I can already tell I’m drinking way more water during the day. I also recently bought these glass straws and I love, love, love them (more than my metal straws)… but they don’t fit in the openings of any of my tumblers or to-go cups, so that’s a little bit of a bummer.
5 & 6 | Living in an apartment we don’t have a balcony or patio to grill, so this has really come in handy. Christian has mastered using it and is really doing a great job with his stovetop grilling!
7 | I mentioned this on Instagram recently, but if you want your dishes to really sparkle, using this product will change your life. Every time I unload the dishwasher I am so amazed! It makes my dishes look brand new.
8 & 9 | Two of my favorite bloggers recommended these two products, so you know I bought them asap. Helena of Brooklyn Blonde uses these cloths to wash her face and says it’s a game-changer, and Courtney of Kerrently says this purple shampoo is the best bang for your buck!
10 & 16 | I purchased these heels and they are unbelievable dupes. So gorgeous – I can’t wait to wear them! I also recently ordered these slides and can’t wait to get them in.
11 | We use these instead of dryer sheets and they do a great job and are more economically friendly.
12 | I so desperately wanted this plant for my birthday, but sadly they don’t ship to California. If they do ship to your state, get on it girl!
13 | I bought this popcorn popper a while ago because it takes up less space than an appliance (which I also love but storage is very precious to us these days). It works great and collapses for storage.
14 | I ordered these leggings and love that they have zipper ankles, side pockets and a little zipper pocket in the back. They’re really comfortable and perfect for walking Bailey when I have my phone, keys, etc.
15 | What you’ve heard is true, this foot mask is amazing. I would warn you not to do it before a vacation though because your feet actually peel for quite a while!
17 | You’ve seen this patch on my denim jacket here, here and here, but it really makes such a statement. I love an oversized varsity patch!
Tell me if you like these kinds of practical purchase posts and if you’ve bought any of these items before. I secretly love reading random but resourceful posts like this, so I’d love your feedback!
AND, of course if you have any great Amazon steals, you know I want to hear. Thank you so much for reading and sharing – XO –
I know I’m not necessarily early to this trend, but let’s talk cold shoulder tops, shall we?
When I got this top, I couldn’t wait to style it. Then I put it on and pulled and tugged at it 10 different ways… I was stumped!
I realized a few key things to styling the trend of the collared, slouchy, off the shoulder top that I thought I would share. I think the finished look is chic and effortless looking… but the truth is that it takes some effort! Or I should say that it took me some effort.
1. Look for adjustable straps.
This one (sadly it sold out fast!) doesn’t have adjustable straps, but a CBL girl pointed out to me on Instagram that if you find a top like this that does have adjustable straps, it is a game-changer.
2. If you don’t have adjustable straps, try safety pinning a camisole strap and the shirt strap.
I took two small safety pins and attached the shirt strap to my camisole strap on each side which kept both in place.
3. And on that note, do yourself a favor and wear a little camisole underneath.
I quickly realized that with this slouchy look, I was most definitely at risk of a fashion mishap, so I layered this top over a lace camisole. I really love how it turned out even more. I love the texture play!
– hydrangeas that have lasted for two full weeks – wowza (shoutout to Whole Foods) –
– the cutest shoes that are perfect for C’s new city walkin’ life –
– seriously happy earrings I bought at the Museum of Ice Cream gift shop –
Happy Friday, my friends! I had a very slow, relaxing week, and quite honestly I don’t remember the last time I walked into the weekend feeling so rested. It’s not my norm… so I can definitely stop to appreciate it.
I skipped last week’s Friday recap, so this is covering a few weeks! Two weekends ago we went over the bridge to Sausalito for the day. It was my first time visiting that area and it felt a little bit like a Northern version of Laguna, which you know I loved. Ah, memories!
Another fun highlight we’ve recently tried are the Scoot rentals around the city. We watched a class online, rented them through our phones and then “scooted” all over town. For the first few rides Christian and I used our Air Pods to be on the phone with each other the whole time so one of us didn’t get lost (that person would obviously be… me). It was a great way to see different neighborhoods, and I’ve always wanted a Vespa! I know we’ll be using these often on the weekends.
C’s week has been pretty busy and we are both working this weekend, but word on the street is that he’ll have a light schedule next week so I’m looking forward to that! In the meantime, I hope y’all have a beautiful weekend. Thanks so much for reading – XO –
Earlier this year I got really stuck on this whole dress-as-a-top situation. I was raiding my closet for ways I could put different looks together. I came up with this one that is similar and summery and this one that is a little more appropriate for the office.
This button down dress is perfect dress-as-a-top material. It has buttons halfway down and then opens into a flowy, drapey dream! If you have any button front dresses, you can totally recreate this look at home on your own by only buttoning it halfway down.
And I’ll go ahead and address that no… my hair didn’t grow overnight! My length is currently in between long bob and long, so I clipped in some hair extensions (full post here) that added about three inches. I have to say, it was weird to see myself with long hair again. Even though I’ve had long hair for most of my life! I actually think I might prefer it shorter… what do you guys think?
One of the most frequently asked questions I get from you guys is what to do in OC + LA. I have a Guide to OC, but I lived an hour south of Los Angeles… so I never really considered myself the guru of all things LA.
BUT, my brother, Patrick, and his fam have lived in LA for the past four years, and thanks to him, I have a list of recommendations for those of you looking for tips and tricks to the city!
I’m also including some of the photos I’ve taken over the years in LA. I’m not linking items because many are years and years old, but I hope they’ll give you an idea of the vibe of some of the different parts of town!
WEST HOLLYWOOD
STAY
Sunset Tower | I’ve never stayed here, but I’ve eaten at the restaurant here twice and it’s pink and darling and fabulous. Have only heard great things about the hotel!
Sunset Marquis | I’ve heard great things about this hotel as well!
EAT
The Hungry Cat Musso and Frank Grill | Classic, old school dinner restaurants that have been open since 1919.
Osteria Mozza | Upscale Italian
Petit Trois | Upscale French
The Sycamore Kitchen | Casual breakfast and lunch spot.
Larchmont Wine and Cheese | Lunch
Bludso’s Bar & Que | And we’re Southerns so we don’t take bbq lightly.
Connie and Ted’s | Seafood
Son of a Gun | My brother’s personal favorite seafood spot
Animal, AOC | Upscale American
Republique | Upscale French and great breakfast spot
Blue Jam Cafe | Breakfast
Meals by Genet | Ethiopian, another personal favorite of Patrick’s
Odys + Penelope | Brazilian
Jon & Vinnys | Pizza
Sur | Food is good not great, but I mean, if you’re a Bravo! superfan you gotta go. We actually saw Lisa and Jiggy here!
Gracias Madre | Vegan Mexican food, which sounds like a #fail but it’s actually delicious and decor is on point!
ACTIVITIES
LACMA | I think this is both mine and Christian’s favorite museum visit in the city. You can walk around outside for free, which also gives you free access to the Urban Lights Exhibit you’ve seen in movies and social media.
La Brea Tar Pits Museum | This was on Christian’s list, and I went with him. I said it should be renamed the “Tar Pits Memorial” because it is both fascinating and so sad. The entire museum is about the natural asphalt that rose from the ground over 10,000 years ago. The museum shows the fossils of the animals who died there as the asphalt has been able to preserve their bones.
Getty Museum | You only have to pay for parking and you can walk around outside. The outside of the museum is beautiful itself with its landscape architecture and has incredible views of the city and Pacific Ocean.
The Grove and the Farmer’s Market | Very popular with tourists… but probably smaller than you think it is!
La Brea Avenue | Great shopping between Beverly and 6th.
DOWNTOWN LA
STAY
Ace Hotel | I’ve had so many meetings here and also attending many events here as well. A great spot in the middle of the action. I mean, a cappuccino is probably like… $12 but that’s LA for you!
The Line Hotel | Technically in Koreatown, but I’ve stayed in this hotel before and it is very, very cool with huge windows overlooking the city.
EAT
Grand Central Market | Very good, but has gotten very touristy and crowded (just a warning!).
Smorgasborg Food Truck Meetup | Sundays in the Arts District.
Bestia, Drago Centro, Baco Mercat, Alma, The Factory Kitchen, Church and State | All popular downtown picks!
Langer’s Deli | Easy lunch, Patrick’s pick.
The Original Pantry Cafe | Patrick’s personal favorite.
Intelligentsia Coffee | Good people watching and good coffee. You’ll see this spot featured a lot on TV/movies.
Mh Zh
Night Market Song
Land’s End
Pine and Crane
Little Dom’s | One of my sister-in-law’s favorites.
Masa of Echo Park | Incredible deep dish pizza and personal favorite’s of Patrick.
ACTIVITES
Griffith Park/Hollywood Sign | Great hiking. We hiked to the Hollywood sign on New Years Day and it was pretty epic!
Griffith Observatory | La La Land fans, you gotta go! Also the view is outrageous both day and night.
BEVERLY HILLS
STAY
The Beverly Hills Hotel | Ok yes, this is a crazy splurge. I’ve only stayed here once but I wish I had saved up for a second visit! It is truly darling and lives up to the expectation. If you DO stay here, make sure you take a visit to the pool and Polo Lounge… great celeb spotting place!
Sofitel Beverly Hills | The Sofitel is reasonably priced and dog-friendly, so we have actually stayed here with Bailey several times. Great location and easy!
SLS Beverly Hills | I’ve stayed here a few times as well and have had a great stay each time.
EAT
The Cabana Cafe | So yes, the salads are like $45 but the ambiance and people-watching is top notch. I’ve eaten here a few times and it was always worth it! Try to make a reservation if you can!
The Ivy | I’ve been here a few times – you absolutely need a reservation, no matter what day of the week. The food is good but the people-watching is GREAT. A must-do in the neighborhood and worth the hype (in my opinion). Even the valet is good people-watching.
Villa Blanca | Christian took me to lunch here on my birthday when we first moved to OC and Scheana was waiting tables that day, ha! Food was good not great, and I bought a $50+ bottle of wine that I’ve still not drank because I’m that kind of person.
Rodeo Drive | A quick walk but a must-do if you’re visiting for the first time!
Melrose Avenue | Another great stroll. TONS of amazing stores and boutiques, be sure to pop in Alfred Coffee!
Greystone Mansion | Absolutely breathtaking and completely free. You can walk the property and peek in the windows… but leave your fancy cameras in the car because they’re not welcome here. I learned that when snapping this post!
Beverly Gardens Park | A beautiful park in the area you can drive by or walk through easily.
COASTLINE
EAT
Malibu Farm Pier Cafe | This restaurant is out on the pier, but you’ll definitely will have to wait to get a table.
Venice Canals and Abbot Kinney | If you’re in that area these are fun to see, but Patrick and I both agree it’s not worth a trip just to see it.
Malibu Country Mart | Lots of upscale shopping and restaurants with a big playground in the middle for those with kids.
Manhattan Beach | A favorite beach for locals. You can easily spend an entire day here with half the day at beach and half the day walking around the stores here.
Descanso Gardens | Also beautiful but not as beautiful as Huntington Gardens (in Patrick’s opinion).
OTHER SUGGESTIONS
Runyon Canyon | Finally went on this hike toward the end of my five years in Southern California and it totally lived up to the hype. This website is great for showing the hiking options in the area.
Dodgers Baseball, LA Lakers, LA Clippers | I’ve been to a Clippers game and my brother says Dodgers tickets are easy and inexpensive to get!
Live Music | This site will show you who is playing and they have a free app as well!
Studio Tours | I’ve done both the Universal and Paramount Studio Tours with visitors and they were both so fun! I learned so much about the behind-the-scenes of movies and television shows, and now I honestly look at them so differently. Mind-blowing!
I hope this guide will be helpful to any of you looking to visit! Huge thanks to my brother Patrick for basically writing this post for me. Thanks so much for reading – XO –
