Carrie Bradshaw Lied

Astoria Central Park West Staycation

This past weekend Christian, Bailey and I had a little staycation at Astoria Central Park West Apartments in Irvine. We all so easily get in our own little bubble or neighborhood, and often forget to get out and try new things in our own city. I was excited to hang in Irvine and be a little tourist in OC for a weekend!

Seeing that we have a move to San Francisco ahead of us this summer, it was really interesting to stay in this luxury apartment for a weekend. I’ve lived in an apartment three different times, and trust me – none of them were this fabulous!

Here are a few amenities Astoria Central Park West offers that I could definitely get used to in my future life:

Rooftop pool and hot tub with outdoor grills and fireplaces.

We have a pool and hot tub now and really love it. It’s so much easier than heading to the beach (I know, #champagneproblems) because you can easily pack and have what you need without trekking it all the way through the sand. I would love, love, love an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. It’s so cozy and the perfect little happy hour spot!

Complimentary valet parking for guests and covered parking garage for residents.

Since we were weekend guests, we were allowed to valet our car all weekend. I love the idea of letting your guests know they can just pull up for complimentary valet versus having them drive all around looking for a parking spot like we have to do now.

Wine cellar storage and wine tasting room.

I mean… do I even need to elaborate here? Dreamy!

Starbucks machine in the lobby.

It’s the little things in life, and grabbing a quick (and free) chai latte in the lobby… I’m not mad at it.

Fully stocked gym.

We hit up the gym Saturday night before cleaning up for dinner, and I kept thinking how much I would LOVE to have a gym like that every day. It was so quiet and made a quick workout just that – a quick workout because you could just hop over to the 3rd floor instead of getting in your car. No excuses to skip and beyond efficient. Major envy!

HUGE Windows lining the apartment walls for amazing sunlight and views.

We visited during a rainy weekend but were able to enjoy the rain through the walls of windows was so amazing! I would love to have this kind of natural light in an apartment.

Not to mention Astoria also has two helipads on the roof, multiple elevators so there’s never a wait for more than 10 seconds, a huge grassy lawn for pets to run around and is less than 10 minutes from South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island. We actually just walked to have lunch because there are so many great places right across the street!

photos by Christian Barnes

Where We Ate –

North Italia | I mean… whoa. We saw the Yelp reviews of this spot and knew we had to give it ago. The service was so-so, but the food was outstanding. We ordered four things and not a crumb was left. It was seriously that good!

Puesto-Park Place | We had dinner here and took advantage of the Orange County Restaurant Week menu. I don’t eat much meat anymore but after seeing the rave reviews of the filet mignon taco I knew I had to try it… and it was what’s up. Great vibe but I think we were so spoiled after our North Italia lunch. It didn’t meet the high bar by comparison!

The Stand | Awesome burger, so-so fries but the options for burgers is kind of amazing. And you can substitute a turkey or veggie burger in any of their menu items!

Have you ever taken a staycation in your own city?

Do you live in Orange County or have advice for someone looking for an apartment (as in amenities you can’t live without)? I’d love to hear your thoughts on luxury apartment life and what you know or have heard about Astoria.

Thanks for reading and sharing – XO –

Brought to you by Astoria Central Park West

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Wednesday Wish List

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Spring wish lists means a new season must be on the horizon! We’ve had some rain lately and while I know it’s not snow like those of you on the East Coast, it still has me ready for when the temperatures rise a little bit so I can soak up one more sunny SoCal spring before our move.

I’m currently however en route to a warm destination to celebrate the nuptials of future Mrs. Perrault, and I’m wishing I had this red hot piece in my suitcase! I’ve had a busy week leading up to this fun trip, so it was one of those last minute packing situations where I might be surprised at what actually ended up in my suitcase. We’ve all been there! Do you have any exciting spring travels on your agenda?

I have been longing for these heels for weeks but they haven’t had my size in stock. If they have yours, please scoop them up and enjoy them on my behalf!

I’ll be sharing more about our Orange County staycation tomorrow, so stay tuned! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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My Favorite Statement Jewelry

If you search “Julie Vos” on this site, you’ll find tons of posts. I’ve been wearing Julie Vos for years since my friend Nikki introduced me to the brand, and it continues to be my favorite quality statement jewelry. I once wore a few rings to a jewelry salon and before I knew it, I had at least five women around me admiring the pieces and asking who the designer was! I’ve been at restaurants answering questions from waitresses about the bracelets… this is not an exaggeration.

The pieces speak for themselves, and I love how beautifully they mix and match together. AND I’ve been wearing some of the bracelets for several years now and they’ve never tarnished. Seriously. You can’t tell the brand new pieces from the pieces I added four years ago.

I personally lean toward their statement pieces like the chainlink bracelets, chunky cuffs and statement rings, but they also have delicate pieces if you’re not stacking high like yours truly (I’ve always been a “more is more” kind of bracelet person). They have a great selection of feminine necklaces and stud earrings that are easily wearable everyday picks.

Trust me, if you roll around town wearing a Julie Vos piece, prepare yourself for tons of questions. My Julie Vos pieces are easily my most asked about jewelry (other than my engagement ring), and that’s why I’m so excited to partner with them for this post. I’ve loved this brand and the team behind it for so many years and I always love telling people about them!

photos by Christian Barnes at Astoria Central Park West

jewelry: Monterey Hoop, Byzantine Hinge Cuff, Monterey Link Bracelet, Alligator Bangle, Elephant Hinge Cuff, Valencia Bangle, Catalina Small Hinge Cuff, Milano 6-Stone Bangle, Monterey Bangle, Valencia Stacking Rings, Loire Ring, Monterey Woven Necklace

clothing: crop top (sold out), similar style here and here | skirt, also love this one | heels, similar look for less here | bag, similar styles for less here and here

Have you ever heard of Julie Vos or owned any of their pieces? I have quite a collection so please feel free to ask me any questions you may have! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

Brought to you by Julie Vos

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Mixing Polka Dots

When I was putting together outfits for Palm Springs, I started playing with something I’ve never done before – mixing polka dot pieces. I’ve worn two pieces together that came as a set, but I’ve never mix and matched different polka dot pieces in my closet.

It totally works!

I know not everyone might wear this exact outfit (it felt very appropriate for retro Palm Springs), but you can do it in your own way. Maybe a polka dot blouse tied at the waist with a skirt or a polka dot blazer over a polka dot romper. Different colors, even different polka dot sizes are totally acceptable.

I thought it was such a fun idea for spring and ways to think out of the box within your own closet. Play with it!

What do you think? Would you mix some of the polka dot pieces you already have? I shared a few extra fun polka dot pieces in the thumbnails below, some of the rompers are real-time cute.

Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Palm Springs Doors

This isn’t the first time you’ve seen this pretty Palm Springs home on CBL. Three years ago I stopped by in this post to check out this desert landmark for the first time. I’ve been 2-3x, and I’ve never been alone. Thanks to the #thatpinkdoor hashtag, there is always a line of tourists and Californians waiting to snap their photo by this pink door!

I wore this little dress to brunch at Melvyn’s and then we popped by this fab house on a drive around some of the mid-century modern homes in town. If you’ve never been to Palm Springs, it’s truly like stepping back in time. The homes, the restaurants, the decor… it’s like you can really envision what Frank Sinatra was up to. It blows my mind every time I visit!

photos by Michelle Preau

If I owned a home and could paint the front door, I would probably go for a light blue (mostly because C wouldn’t allow me to paint it pink, let’s be real). What color would you choose? Or do you already have a lovely painted front door?

Thank you so much for reading! XO –

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Three Outfits, One Dress

Three looks, one dress – today I’m going to share a few spring staples that are comfortable, extremely versatile and classic!

When it comes to an everyday dress that you can get the most bang for your buck, James Perse is a go-to for me. Nordstrom has a a great selection of their pieces that are great foundation investments. Another spring must-have is a classic chambray shirt. I recently snagged this one and I can already tell it’s going to be worn on repeat.

A few years ago I put a Burberry trench coat on my “lifetime wish list.” I kept my eye on a few online as well as consignment shops and ending up splurging on a vintage one. A piece like this is one you know you’ll still wear and love thirty years from now. Nordstrom has a great selection of Burberry pieces, and if a fabulous trench is something you’ve been longing for, I’d recommend saving $100 a month with this big purchase in mind. Then you can take the plunge without guilt!

SO, how is this three looks in one? Scroll down to see! I layered a chambray and trench for a look that would work in the office, ditched the trench for a weekend-inspired look and lost all the layers other than the LBD for a date night look. You could easily wear booties, sneakers or sandals with a dress like this. The silhouette and fabric is so easy to make it your own, and the ruching at the hips provides some camouflaging (which I appreciate).

photos by Michelle Preau

What are some of your most versatile closet staples? I’d love to hear the dress you wear on repeat! Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

brought to you by Nordstrom

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DIY: LV Speedy with Patches

I recently stumbled upon this post that I found via Pinterest, and I was SO inspired by this chick’s cool style. I particularly loved how she made her Louis Vuitton speedy a display of travels, experiences and memories. So original!

I knew exactly the bag I wanted to try it on. My sweet mom bought me this damier speedy over ten years ago, and I haven’t worn it as frequently as I thought I would. At one point I considered selling it, but really felt it was such a classic bag that I (or future daughters/granddaughters) would get plenty of wear out of it.

I couldn’t commit to glueing or sewing patches on, but I thought I could try some sticker-patches! I had a few patches already (and have since added this one), but I both bought some sticker patches (several are shared below) and used my all-time favorite fabric tape, toupee tape, to adhere some that didn’t have a sticker backing.

I definitely feel like the sticker made patches stay on the best, and I think this store has the best ones – their varsity letters are so cute.

photos by Michelle Preau

Do you have a bag that you would consider putting some patches on? Describe it to me – I’d love to hear!

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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7 Steps to Planning a Bachelorette Party

On Friday I shared that I spent last week in Palm Springs with this crew to celebrate Jenn‘s wedding next month!

I was so excited to get in on a little bachelorette party prep, and we definitely started the week with a bang thanks to Seven Daughters Wines. All of that being said, I wanted to share some of my bachelorette party-planning tips with you – and yes, karaoke microphones are definitely involved.

Don’t overthink the decorations.

When you first start thinking about a themed party… it can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! All you need is a decorated “area” where you can have all of the gifts, party supplies, snacks and so on. If you think about decorating the entire room floor to ceiling, it’s too much.

Have a designated photo spot where everyone can get their picture with the bride, where she can sit to open gifts and so on. I am linking all of the supplies for this party at the bottom of the post – and they were so fun and not expensive.

If you need a space filler: blow up balloons and have them on the floor. It looks so fun and adds some quick and easy “party” vibes to the room!

Keep it tasteful.

Call me old fashioned, but I like to keep bachelorette party decorations tasteful. People are going to be videoing, snapping photos, etc. Thanks to the internet and social media… some of these private moments are no longer so private. No one wants a wild photo resurfacing online when they’re interviewing for a new job next year.

While we’re talkin’ tasteful, delicious snacks are a must.

Any party I’m throwing needs the essentials: a cheese and charcuterie plate, fruit, crudité, anything wrapped in a wonton wrapper and chips and an assortment of dip. We had a homemade dip, smoked gouda dip, salsa and guacamole… and as I’m writing this I’m now hungry again.

Wine, wine, and please more wine.

Of course, find out the bride’s favorite blend or drink so you can have that ready to go, but this group likes to keep the wine a-flowing. We had Seven Daughters Red Blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Moscato and Rosé for the occasion.

The Rosé Cans were so handy because you can easily slip in a little straw, grab another if yours is no longer cold, share with a friend, etc. When it comes to parties – having some cans to serve is so convenient!

Having wine charms (how hilarious are these) or a wine glass marker are great ways to keep track of whose glass is whose.

Have an element of fun/silly/playfulness.

Our girl Jenni Jenn is all about the laughs, so some of her requests were karaoke and disco balls. I must say, they were quite a hit. And I love that you can continue to enjoy them and it’s not just a one time thing!

Party rings are also usually well received. I love that these light up for later in the night. So fun!

Add a party playlist.

You know I love a playlist. Flashback to this post when I shared a “Friday” and “Monday” playlist. For this party we had DJ Krystal on the scene and she did not disappoint. This helped with the karaoke as well… and everyone boo-ing me when I wanted to sing Billy Joel.

That is rude.

Take photos in the beginning of the party, then put your phones away and enjoy yourselves!

We had these adorable little polaroid cameras that were so cute for snapping photos. If someone has a polaroid or is willing to add one to the scene, it’s a really fun addition.

L to R: A Pinch of Lovely, My Style Diaries, Haute off the Rack

photos by Michelle Preau

Outfits: dress – sold out, same print in this duster

wrap dress c/o Vici, similar styles here and here, heels

white jumpsuit

red dress c/o Vici, similar styles here, here and here

Have you ever planned a bachelorette party!? I’d love to hear your hits and misses. I have another one coming up in July, so let me know if you think I missed something!

You can check out Seven Daughters on Facebook and Instagram and find their wine in your area here. AND the code CBL7D is good for 20% off any Seven Daughters purchase on Uncorked.com! XO –

Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

brought to you by Seven Daughters Wines

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Friday’s Five

– new highlighters from my friend and beauty guru Sona of Pérsona Cosmetics (and Urban Decay’s new Heat Palette that is also amazing) –

– making a batch of what I’m convinced are the best chocolate chip cookies on earth –

– spending a week in Palm Springs –

hat | coverup | swimsuit | beach bag

– and visiting the Cabazon Dinosaurs –

– and cheesin’ it up with our matching hats –

Happy Friday! I’ve been hanging with the gals this week in Palm Springs celebrating Jenn and her upcoming Cabo wedding. We’ve had this trip planned for several months, so to see it come and go felt both SO FUN and also a little sad.

You know when you look forward to something for so long and then you’re blue when it’s over? I’m feelin’ some of that. I love time spent with the girls! I’ll be joining them again in a few weeks for the wedding throwdown, and trust me – I’ll be there for it. Can’t wait!

As for this weekend, the celebrating isn’t over quite yet. Christian’s birthday is this weekend, and while he has a standardized test to take first (it has fallen on his birthday… 5 years in a row), we have some QT planned and maybe a little Oscars viewing party? Time will tell!

Do you have any girls trips ahead of you? If so, I want to here where and when. And know that I’m jealous! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Layering a Velvet Jumpsuit

Houndstooth, velvet, jumpsuits, rockstuds – all the things. Sometimes less is more and other times more is more!

But today I wanted to chat about layering jumpsuits. This velvet jumper looks so fabulous on its own, but I wanted to share one of the many ways I created a totally different look with it, maximizing its versatility.

I think it would also be great with a leather moto jacket, a faux fur vest (50% off) or duster cardigan. My girlfriend recently gave me this bright yellow houndstooth blazer and I’ve had so much fun adding it to looks. Yellow is going to be everywhere for spring, so if you spot something fun and cheerful in yellow – I highly recommend adding it to your closet!

Another piece I think is really versatile is a neutral statement belt. I found this rockstud belt on eBay and it adds such a punch to outfits. I love it! I linked a few similar styles I also love below.

Do you have any jumpsuits in you closet that you could see yourself layering to create new looks? Give it a try and tell me what you think!

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Shopbop Sale Picks

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Shopbop is having one of their major sales right now, and it’s a great time to score a great deal on some designer duds. Above are some picks I extra love, and sharing more from the sale below!

The breakdown is:

15% off orders $200+

20% off $500+

25% off $800+

with code GOBIG18

And this applies to both full price AND sale items! I definitely picked up this belt and these earrings… but I have my eye on a few extra things. How fun is this bag strap? These heels are also screaming my name. This also looks like the perfect travel scarf. I have these sneakers, and I’m so excited they’re in the sale! They are SO comfortable and have quickly become a travel and street style favorite.

Have you picked up anything? I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Tee & Ball Skirt

I recently shared how I paired a tee with a midi skirt and sneakers here. Today I wanted to share a similar look but a little more dressed up. This skirt is a few years old (flashback to our epic 2014 photography here), but I also have it in green and still love it, love it, love it.

Pairing something casual with something dressy is one of my favorite combos. It’s also an easy way to maximize some of the pieces you think are too dressy too wear as often. Wear a crisp white cropped top or silk cami with this skirt and you have a formal outfit.

You can see how I wore the green version of this skirt to a family wedding here.

And scroll down for the details on this tee and tons of other Gucci look-for-less graphic tees!

photos by Vincent Elejorde

Would you wear a tee with dressier skirts or dresses? I have another post coming soon showing how I knot tees over jumpsuits. Let me know if you like these mix and match-style posts and I’ll definitely create more!

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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