Look I'm Loving

Blake Lively

image via coco perez

The girl is flawless.  Whether she is on the red carpet in a goddess gown, or strolling the streets of Boston in a biker chick inspired style (above), she is always on point.  I especially adore her Theodora & Callum tribal-esque scarf and edgy fingerless gloves. 

Middleton at the Millies

image via popsugar

Kate Middleton looked gorgeous in a black velvet, strapless, Alexander McQueen gown at the Sun Military Awards, or Millies, in London.  William and Harry looked equally dashing in their traditional tuxes.  Perfection.

Phipps Conservatory

I had an awesome day exploring Pittsburgh and stopping by Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.  It was so nice to see the lovely Christmas decorations, and I am just obsessed with all of the permanent Dale Chihuly hand-blown glass pieces scattered throughout the gardens. It was also really neat to see the orchid room named after my great uncle, Frank Sarris.  Here are some of my favorite pictures from the adventure.

beautiful, sweeping archways

gorgeous tree on water

absolutely amazed by this room, breath-taking

Desert room, GC's favorite

From Pretty to Punk

Rooney Mara

      On the Red Carpet and as Lisbeth Sander in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Although I have yet to read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, I am extremely intrigued and anxious to see the upcoming movie.  I am not usually a fan of action movies, but this one seems special.  I say this, not only because David Fincher (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) is an extremely talented director, but also because Rooney Mara, the relatively unknown actress who plays main character Lisbeth Sander, did a complete transformation for the film, as seen in the above photos.  Her role as Lisbeth is guaranteed to jump start her career, especially because the movie has a guaranteed fan base.  When I see before and after photos and when I read about filming, I think to myself, "wow, this had to be the role of a lifetime for her to go to these extremes."  If not the role of a lifetime, then definitely a role to catch everyones attention.   Here is the trailer:

Her current looks for the film's promotional tour are super edgy! The girl loves her cut-outs, and I can't blame her!

(From left: Givenchy Haute Couture, Roksanda, Prabal Gurung)

European Shopping List

In a little over a year I will be embarking on an extraordinary European adventure. I have obviously already started a packing list which includes these four items that I have yet to purchase.  

Clockwise from top left:
1. Longchamp Le  Pliage Backpack - This chic and versatile backpack will allow me to have my hands free while exploring different cities. Plus, it may even make me look like a native (I can only hope!)
2. Kate Spade Travel Wallet - I considered just a regular old passport holder, but this wallet is perfect because it can accomadate a passport, but can still be used in every day life once I return home.
3. Patagonia Re-Tool Pullover - I think I would prefer the plain cream-colored style (without the blue accent), but this pullover will keep me extra warm under a thicker coat, or by itself if it is a slightly warmer day
4. Aldo Wedge Boot - These are not a definite, but it would be nice to have a chic, warm, ankle boot, such as this one.  I love my riding boots, but these would be nice to mix it up.

A lovely quote from Nikki Giovanni, English Professor, Virginia Tech