CharmedCity

Smell You Later

2011-05-11T08:48:00.000-04:00

Hold your tears- we've decided to leave our blogspot home and move over to wordpress. We will still continue to amuse and delight all (five) of you on the new site- it'll just look a little better while we do it. Head over to www.acharmedcity.com and if you care about us at all, subscribe! And tell your friends! And your enemies!

Baltimore: The City That Reads

2011-05-05T14:12:00.000-04:00

Who needs the internet when all the answers to life's question can be found plastered to the mail box on Monument?

Hurts So Good

2011-05-05T11:20:00.000-04:00

When we first discover something that we absolutely, without a doubt need to own, it becomes somewhat of an obsession. We lie awake at night envisioning ourselves with (insert coveted item here) and how our lives will be infinitely better once we finally get our greedy paws on it. Sick bitches, indeed.

Our current bout occurred whilst flipping through one of the dozen and a half editorials (fine, it was Cosmo) that we so adore. From the moment we laid eyes on Sam Edelman's Exie flats, we knew that they had to be ours. We're still unsure if it was the doubles-as-a-weapon angle or some freakish desire to rock self inflicted ankle wounds all Summer. Either way, they are now safely at home in our bedroom closet.

Nasty Gal

2011-05-04T11:33:00.000-04:00

Besides our birthdays, we may be entering the very best time of the year. Despite the rain, pollen and bipolar temperatures, a million fun parties, festivals and events are happening. This week alone we have the first First Thursdays, Mount Vernon Flower Mart, a fabulous Kentucky Derby party and a college graduation to attend in beautiful, cultural, Williamsport, PA. Having a full dance card is lovely, but outfits are sparse as spring cleaning has revealed closets hit hard by neglect and questionable choices made while shivering through online winter clearance sales.

Typically we're cheap bitches who re-purpose/wear clothes until they're ruined--- so pilly and sad-looking that even our floorboards don't want to be dusted with them. Luckily, The Circle of (Fashion) Life rewards frugality and lets us believe that each mottled garment begets a new fancy one.

Below are a few favorites from the recently discovered Nasty Gal site. Summer wardrobe beware: You're about to get revamped.

Our Weekend.

2011-05-02T14:51:00.000-04:00

Beatrice's Hat.

2011-04-29T10:49:00.000-04:00

Did you guys know the sun comes up around 6am? We didn't either. After hitting snooze and cursing all of England for being on Greenwich Mean Time we dragged our commoner asses out of bed, smeared some butter on a few homemade almond scones and tried to keep our eyes open.

It was really hard to stay awake during the arrival to Westminster Abbey, but then the Sisters' Crisco came to the rescue. After howling with delight and making jokes that even Lucille Bluth would throw shade at, we decided that Beatrice's dammit head piece was worth the 5am wake up.

The rest of the wedding was lovely. Kate Middleton's choice of McQueen was perfection, William looked like the happiest guy on earth and Harry somehow managed to make a roped-off military suit look good.

We're pretty sure the Queen grabbed her "spring" suit and top hat out of the back of the Royal Closet in the midst of this mornings' sherry hangover, but we love yellow so we'll let it slide. What we're less willing to let slide was the balcony kiss. This was your moment, Will and Kate! That's how we would kiss crappy in-laws or an affectionate priest! We'll have to live with it, but we hope they make up for it on the honeymoon to Jupiter that the good people of England are paying for.

Since this blog is about many things we'll leave you with an ugly picture of us sleep eating and a recipe.

God save the Queen!

RAF Almond Scones after the jump.

RAF Almond Scones

(Taken from this site)

1 cup blanched almonds (whole, slivered or sliced), toasted
2 tablespoons sugar
1 large egg
1/3 cup cold heavy cream
1/4 cup cold whole milk
1/8 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 stick (8 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Center a rack in the oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line
a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Divide the toasted almonds in half. Finely ground 1/2 cup in a food
processor or blender with the sugar, taking care not to overgrind the
nuts and end up with almond butter. Finely chop the other 1/2 cup.

Stir the egg, cream, milk and almond extract together.

Whisk the flour, ground almonds and sugar, baking powder and salt
together in a large bowl. Drop in the butter and, using your fingers,
toss to coat the pieces of butter with flour. Quickly, working with
your fingertips (my favorite method) or a pastry blender, cut and rub
the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is pebbly.
You’ll have pea-size pieces, pieces the size of oatmeal flakes and
pieces the size of everything in between—and that’s just right.

Pour the liquid ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir with a
fork just until the dough, which will be wet and sticky, comes
together. Don’t overdo it. Stir in the chopped almonds.

Still in the bowl, gently knead the dough by hand, or turn it with a
rubber spatula 8 to 10 times. Turn the dough out onto a lightly
floured work surface and divide it in half. Working with one piece at
a time, pat the dough into a rough circle that’s about 5 inches in
diameter, cut it into 6 wedges and top each scone with a few sliced
almonds, if you’re using them. Place them on a baking sheet. (At this
point, the scones can be frozen on the baking sheet, then wrapped
airtight. Don’t defrost before baking—just add about 2 minutes to the
baking time.)* Bake the scones for 20 to 22 minutes, or until their
tops are golden and firmish. Transfer to a rack and cool for 10
minutes before serving, or wait for the scones to cool to room
temperature.

Keep Calm and Harry On

2011-04-28T15:53:00.001-04:00

Say what you will about the royal nuptials tomorrow, but we'll be watching bleary-eyed with a pre-work mimosa in hand. Not because we particularly care about a bunch of toothy millionares who couldn't handle their shit in the 1700's, but because we want to see with our own eyes how someone goes from dating this:

(Oh, hello.)

To marrying this:

(BADGERFACE!)

Three hundred pounds says Kate comes to her senses and runs off with this hot toddy:

How Many Licks Does It Take

2011-04-28T10:56:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Bakers Royale)

Not sure why we didn't think of this on our own. Corona Popsicles....holy shit. We've never wanted anything more.

Joe Squared

2011-04-27T11:05:00.000-04:00

With the typical happy hour consisting of $1 Jaeger shots and various discounted Red Bull concoctions, we love taking a trip to Joe Squared and reveling in nightly specials that don't suck. In fact, they're pretty effing wonderful. This past Monday night we indulged in 1/2 priced risotto and wine bottles (offered every Monday from 4-7:30). This means that two people stuffed themselves silly with two large bowls of creamy, delicious risotto and two bottles of Sauvignon Blanc (don't judge) for under $40. Happy Hour specials are offered almost every day of the week, each providing an economically respsonible way to get your food and booze fix.

Bonus points: Flash a few smiles at the bartender and you may even score a few free shots of Grand Marnier (seems like a good idea at the time).

This Has Nothing to Do With Anything But...

2011-04-26T14:54:00.001-04:00

...there's just no way you can look us in the eye and tell us you don't want to be writhing in a backless black dress in front of a public school photo day backdrop/lazer tag party music video in the jungle in 1999.

Turn Me On

2011-04-25T14:02:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of this site.)

This is how today feels.

Super bright and weird and colorful and confusing (it was cold last week and today we're contemplating public nudity) and we like it but we're not sure we're supposed to.

Oh, Spring in Baltimore.

Getting Handsy

2011-04-22T14:08:00.000-04:00

(Image couresy of Apartment Therapy)

Please ignore the charmingly tow-headed children in this picture and focus instead on the incredible shadow puppet motif wallpaper behind them. It's kind of amazing.

Great Friday

2011-04-22T11:35:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter to all you little gay fancy men.

Feaster

2011-04-21T17:24:00.000-04:00

(Courtesy of La Boite Verte)

We Need...

2011-04-21T15:53:00.000-04:00

...These. For a super awesome sleepover with our chums.

(get it?)

Four Questions

2011-04-20T17:10:00.001-04:00

(Image courtesy of Food Network)

Last night, we packed the kids into the ole' station wagon and hightailed it to the county for Mama Carol's Non-Seder-Seder. As is the case with most Jewish functions, the wine consumption was inappropriate, inside voices did not exist, and the gluttonous crowd left not even a crumb for Elijah.

As harrowing as it was to pick one highlight from the whole evening, the award must undoubtedly go to the Indonesian Ginger Chicken that prompted well-dressed ladies to employ some pretty barbaric eating techniques (hands are a form of silverware, dammit). Oh, and seeing these guys model a pastel assortment of yarmulkes was totally worth the price of admission.

Yoga

2011-04-20T14:29:00.001-04:00

(Image courtesy of this link)

Tonight- just like every third Wednesday- The Baltimore Conservatory Association opens its doors to Charm City Yoga for an hour of stretching while checking out cool plants. We went in January and loved it. The class was a nice mix of beginner/intermediate and the space is well-suited for relaxation. We were a little cramped (this is a popular event so come early and mark your yoga-mat real estate) but getting cozy with your neighbor was worth it for the venue. After class you are invited to wander the conservatory in an unguided mediation, or if you're like us, you'll invite yourself to gawk at plants with leaves twice the size of the average human male.

The class begins at 6pm and costs $12 (half goes to Charm City Yoga and half is a donation to the conservatory). The address is 3100 Swan Drive in Druid Hill Park and there is plenty of free parking.

Nerd Alert

2011-04-19T15:42:00.000-04:00

(Sucks to be Megan today....xoxo, L)

Pardon the radio silence. One of us is spending a soul-sucking day at a six-hour excel course in East Baltimore.

Weekend

2011-04-18T17:07:00.001-04:00

When our plans to see Ke$ha (and one of our sisters) at Lycoming College were crushed because of the weather, we threw on our rain boots and headed to Jong Kak. We suggest you wipe that smirk off your face (the soft J kind of takes the name to a Chris Hansen place) and give this Korean BBQ wonder a try. We toasted to everything we could think of with Korean gin, wrapped perfectly smoked chicken, short ribs and pork in verdant lettuce and squealed when the waitress employed a hair dryer to keep our table-top grill from overheating. The best part? This carnivorous and boozy feast cost somewhere in the realm of 120 clams.

The remainder of the weekend was pretty tame in comparison. Saturday was spent submerged in biblical rain falls and vile amounts of television, while Sunday provided us with ideal farmers market and Druid Hill Park/open container weather.

This is our future.

Pretending we care about each other mid-margarita in Druid Hill Park.

Elderflower vodka... 50% of us thought it tasted like soap.

Whole F**ds

2011-04-15T13:49:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Cafe Press)

Socially responsible and honest. We love it.

Truth.

2011-04-14T08:56:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

Apologies, All Around.

2011-04-14T08:51:00.001-04:00

We've been dividing our time between drinking spritzers and playing cards in the park and cursing the weather gods for the days when we can't drink spritzers and play cards in the park, so please excuse the absent Wednesday posts. It takes a lot of energy to drink and curse.

To make it up to you, here are some shots from our week.

Go to the Mondawmin MVA. It's fast and every time we've gone, we've had really funny, sweet customer service. Seriously. Also, this coy seal graces the wall to the bathroom with no explanation.

After dinner at Corner BYOB we strolled past this iconic (and warm) Hampden tree.

A very capable (and strange) boyfriend made this bud vase from a light bulb and coat hanger. If you want one too, he prefers payment in the form of Pikesville Rye.

Casa Baltimore

2011-04-13T10:29:00.000-04:00

This weekend we had the pleasure of attending a CASA benefit. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a program that places volunteers with children in need of an advocate within the judicial, medical and education systems. To learn more about this incredible service and to find out how to volunteer, please visit this site.

Below are some pictures from the event at Load of Fun Gallery. We munched on Joe Squared, had our fortunes told and bought some kick ass art in the silent auction. (We ended up with a wallpapered gun, an alligator motif and a lithograph of "talking" piranhas. Very cool.)

A special thanks to the Green family for giving us a heads up on this event and organization, and an even special-er NO thanks to Miss Olivia who refused to share that brownie.

Temptations

2011-04-12T15:26:00.000-04:00

(Visit Shopbando.com)

Just thought you might like to know....

Girl Talk

2011-04-12T15:17:00.000-04:00

(All images courtesy of Shop Sweet Lulu)

Complete suckers for anything with adorable packaging, we practically peed ourselves when we came across Shop Sweet Lulu a few weeks ago. After spending a good 2 hours removing and adding little trinkets to our shopping cart (our bosses must be so proud) we finally settled on striped candy cups, and a few varieties of the ever-practical paper straw. All of our uber-girly goods came beautifully wrapped in a pink confetti filled box. Embarrassing amounts of giggles, and gasps followed.

National Grilled Cheese Day

2011-04-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

(White Truffle Grilled Cheese)

(Green Goddess Grilled Cheese)

(Grilled Beer & Cheese)

In case you weren't already aware, today (April 12th) is National Grilled Cheese Day. There aren't many non gift receiving holidays that excite us, but this is a celebration that we can totally get down with.

We didn't actually craft our own cheesy wonder for the occasion (yesterday's sunshine served as a brutal reminder that bathing suit season is fast approaching) but we are going to leave you with some pretty inspirational food porn.

Karmic Relief

2011-04-08T14:29:00.000-04:00

We miss the hell out of her at Brewer's, but Karma's cupcakes have made it to the big leagues: they were served at a fabulous dinner party in Ruxton last night. Go Karma!

And YOU should go to Stonemill Bakery to try them for yourself. Above is a shot of the BERGER COOKIE CUPCAKE we shared last night, complete with a signature sparkle sprinkle. Perfection.

(and this is officially our last cupcake post of the week. probably.)

Kate Spade Sale

2011-04-08T09:30:00.000-04:00

These bright Kate Spade bags are sunshine on this cloudy day. Today and tomorrow is the Friends and Family (sure) 25% off sale, and we're debating giving BGE an IOU to make room to splurge.

If you see us warming our hands by a garbage bin fire, please smile kindly and compliment our bags.

Holy Crap

2011-04-07T17:16:00.000-04:00

Growing up, our definition of the circus was sticky cotton candy fingers, eau de elephant poop, and clown induced nightmares. Super pleasant, right? Needless to say that when we were given the opportunity to attend a performance of Cirque Du Soleil Totem last night, there was a brief moment of hesitation. Fortunately, one of us put on their big girl panties and gave the carny world a second chance (a certain coward shall remain nameless...Megan). Despite it's unfortunate Westport Waterfront location, and increased odds of wheelchair-bound homeless traffic director encounters (true story) we can't stress enough how badly you need to see Totem. Words cannot even begin to describe some of the shit that we witnessed. Buy yourself a ticket, splurge on the $9 booze, and prepare to have your mind blown.

Totem runs tonight through April 24th.

More info here

Dominion Ice Cream

2011-04-07T10:46:00.001-04:00

Some simple math.

On the fourth and final day of birthday celebrating for this guy, we stumbled upon magic. Dominion Ice Cream in Charles Village not only makes you-wouldnt-know-it-was-vegetable ice cream, they STUFF IT into cupcakes. Though the idea of tomato ice cream was initially a turn off, we figured anything stuffed inside a cupcake would taste delicious. We spent about ten minutes with the very patient staff mixing and matching ice cream flavors with cupcake and icing options. Beet ice cream in a chocolate cupcake with chocolate icing; Cucumber ice cream in a vanilla cupcake with lemon icing; and for the less daring: Cookie dough ice cream in chocolate cupcake with vanilla icing.

It was the fattest, most creative moment in our adult lives.

Don't let the fancy food and fabulous service fool you- Dominion is dirt cheap. A half dozen cupcakes cost $15 bucks...way less than the normal price for bakery cupcakes that don't even have ice cream in them. Get your ass to 33rd and Charles and indulge.

Up Yours

2011-04-06T16:23:00.000-04:00

When in doubt, rub butter and fried garlic all over a chicken, and roast with a can of beer in its butt.

In Living Color

2011-04-06T14:25:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Hype Beast)

Perhaps it comes with the territory of being 80's babies, but anything neon (in small doses, that is) will forever have a place in our hearts. As soon as we stumbled across these amped up leather satchels, we immediately started rationalizing the potential purchase. It's yet to happen but who knows how long this bout of constraint will last.

Stacker

2011-04-06T11:59:00.000-04:00

(Images courtesy of StreetFSN)

Currently vibing a wrist full of sparkly, stacked trinkets.

#FatBitchProblems

2011-04-05T15:16:00.000-04:00

Back when we first met (if one can even remember so far back) we divulged our undying love for dirt-cheap, authentic Mexican food in the form of Mi Viejo Pueblito. In addition to spreading this obsession all over the internet, there is not a single member of our posse who has not dined there (strong arming was only implemented twice). Fearful of having too much of a good thing, we took a brief hiatus, allowing our cravings to truly grow. During this separation, a friend informed us that MVP was under new ownership (?!) and had undergone a name change (?!?!). Unaware of the awesomness of the first iteration, he gave the place high marks (which were likely swayed by the BYOB status).

Fast forward to this past Saturday night when we made our long awaited trip ''home''. Upon our initial observation, not much had changed. Same sunny exterior, intoxicating smells wafting through the front door, and a wonderful handwritten BYOB sign. Situated at a nice corner table equipped to handle our party of 10, we dove into the menu. Despite the absence of a few dishes, it seemed pretty unscathed. Another sigh of relief. The first plate to arrive at our table was a hefty portion of bright green guacamole. Going in for the first bite, we noticed something odd. The chips. The fresh from the fryer, hot, salty tortilla chips that we have come to expect had been replaced with some straight from the bag Tostitos shit. WTF? And it only got worse from there.

Although everybody's food was hot and palatable, there was nothing exceptional about any of it. Chicken Enchiladas were completely overwhelmed by quarter inch thick corn tortillas and enough mole to overflow a bathtub. Tamales so void of anything but dense, dry masa that they could sink a boat. To be fair, our feelings of devastation were not shared by all. Some of our party ohh-ed and ahh-ed with every bite. Some people enjoy bland food. Au revoir, Mi Viejo Pueblito (we don't care to remember your new epithet). And so, the search for Baltimore's perfect Mexican spot continues....

Starch Raving Mad

2011-04-05T10:01:00.000-04:00

(Images courtesy of The Inspired Bride)

While we have done our fair share of entertaining and ''table-scaping'' the past few weeks, none of our accomplishments even compare to this bomb-ass spud bar. This fabulously decorated spread includes every variety of delicious potato treat conceivable; mashed, baked, tots, fries, and wedges. Not to mention enough topping and dipping options to seduce anyone into the sweetest of starch comas. They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so prepare to be flattered super soon, spud bar.

Take Me Back

2011-04-04T15:52:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

Happy opening day, Baltimore.

Under the Overpass

2011-04-04T15:45:00.002-04:00

FINALLY.

The farmers market opened yesterday and we couldn't be happier. To ensure an early Sunday wake-up, we had an unusually low-key Saturday night and awoke shockingly refreshed and ready to buy some shit. Since the market opened a full month earlier than usual, the stands were a little sparse. We noticed an influx of "art" (and underwear) dealers along the perimeter, as well as a concrete field of hula hoops and variously-aged hip thrusters. Once we got past the hullabaloo, we bee-lined to the chicken kebab stand, strolled past our favorite Mexican food spot, bought armloads of Boston Lettuce and grabbed a few (half gallons) of fresh chocolate milk.

Even though the produce and snacks are incredible, the best part of the market is running into friends underneath of the high way. The combination of getting your voice heard over the crowd and roaring cars above while jumping around trying to avoid people on roller blades (saw two this weekend) and the hipster parents who apparently made a southern turn out of Park Slope and found themselves in Baltimore is too fun. The catching up with friends part is fun too.

Welcome back, Spring.

Drink Your Juice, Hov.

2011-03-31T16:36:00.000-04:00

Coolest dork on the internet.

You Light Up My Life

2011-03-30T14:48:00.002-04:00

(Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy)

With the help of the glamorous Tupperware recycling bin taking residence in the middle of our kitchen, we feel as though we do our part to keep our cities' shit in order. We'll even pick up the occasional Colt 45 can that finds it's way onto our sidewalk. But this Apartment Therapy tutorial takes conserving to a whole new level. For about $5 and an old light bulb, you can craft yourself an adorable bud vase. Recycled malt liquor containers could work too but they won't look nearly as fabulous.

Hell Yeah

2011-03-30T12:49:00.000-04:00

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-03-30T11:16:00.000-04:00

Jump pictures.

Reunions.

Honesty.

Not So Desperate

2011-03-29T17:03:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Anthropologie)

It may be our inner Jill Zarin speaking, but we can't help but want to flaunt this breezy Anthropologie caftan, chilled Prosecco, and a tan. Preferably in Curaçao, but we'll settle for Rehoboth.

Double Vision

2011-03-29T14:46:00.001-04:00

Pottery Barn $499

American Furniture Warehouse $199
(Images courtesy of Copy Cat Chic)

Our affinity for luxury combined with our need for a bargain can make shopping a harrowing ordeal. We've shared our splurge vs. steal accessory skills before, but have never had the same luck when it comes to furnishing our homes. Lucky for us, we have just discovered Copy Cat Chic, and could not be more excited. Like-minded blogger, Reichel Broussard takes bank breaking home goods and unearths their wallet friendly doppelgangers. How brilliant is that? Whether you're craving Pottery Barn or Eames, you are sure to find a stunningly affordable option on her site.

Man, We Love the Internet

2011-03-28T11:21:00.000-04:00

Just click this link.

FOR YOU FROM US

2011-03-28T10:03:00.002-04:00

You can stop daydreaming about the day you'll be rich enough to afford a blue koi vase because, friends, that day is here. While we were in Manhattan this weekend we saw this vase and thought of you! We're sweethearts, so naturally we bought it, and it can be yours free of charge, no strings attached*.

Lucky ducks.

*There are totally strings attached. You have to follow us and write a comment below to be eligible for this fine decorative piece. We'll pick a winner at random tomorrow at noon.

***UPDATE***

Despite a lackluster response, we have declared a winner. Congratulations to Lauren Maxwell for not only winning the prized fish vase, but also for being one of two unsolicited commentors!

BQE

2011-03-28T09:53:00.000-04:00

We headed up to New York this weekend to say hi to some friends and to remember what it feels like to get drunk somewhere other than Brewer's Art. We kicked it at the Brooklyn Flea Market, drank tequilla-Corona drinks at Blockheads, ended up with a massive bruise after ordering pizza too excitedly, and spent a while trying to figure out why our friend's roof was covered in a sea of pigeon cages.

All in all, a good time. Please enjoy the pictures below. Hipstamatic is being an asshole, so you'll have to excuse the blur and pretend like they're all just super artsy.

You're not fooling anyone.

Drinking a nooner.

Whit's secret life as a pigeon trainer.

Watch out, guys.

Pearl River.

Neverending Friday

2011-03-25T15:02:00.000-04:00

Our sentiments exactly

This Shit is Bananas

2011-03-25T14:51:00.001-04:00

In an effort to salvage some almost funky bananas, we decided to try our hand at banana bread for the first time. Plus, a hungry boyfriend offered to tackle cleaning our meth lab-esque kitchen if we let him take the whole batch to work. Baking and leaving the (pre-existing) mess for someone else? Ummm, ok. We used all ingredients that we already had on hand, making this an incredibly cost-efficient treat. While we weren't privy to tasting any of the final product, the house smelled divine, and the feedback was fabulous.

Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread

Recipe after the jump

Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread

Adapted from this recipe

3 very ripe bananas, mashed

2 eggs

1/3 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 cup white sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 3/4 cup all purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

8 oz chocolate (we used semi-sweet chunks)

Preheat oven to 325. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, eggs, cream, and oil. Add sugars, flour, baking soda, and salt to the banana mixture. Once fully in corporated, fold in chocolate chunks. Pour batter into a prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.

Ideally

2011-03-24T14:33:00.000-04:00

(All images courtesy of ideeli.com)

Despite the forecast for snow this weekend, we're pretending like spring has sprung, and so is our inbox. Ideeli sent over a sale on warm weather looks and after a wary glance to the cold drizzle outside the window, we plugged in our credit card numbers and defiantly started clicking.

Above are some of the looks we snagged. If you aren't a member of Ideeli (and seriously, you should be) click this link and sign up.

Tree Hugger

2011-03-23T14:40:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Epicurious)

With the fabulous Baltimore Farmer's Market mere weeks from gracing us with it's presence, we are making a pact amongst ourselves to utilize it more so than ever. In addition to our weekly South Mountain Creamery and Desert Cafe fix, we plan on stocking up on as much fresh produce as humanly possible.

As it stands, we probably earn a B- (D on weekends) for our vegetable consumption. Nothing to scoff at, but in typical lady-like fashion, we want more, more, more. How convenient that we just found this nifty visual guide to cooking greens over at Epicurious. With pictures, descriptions, and links to recipes for 10 dark leafy green varieties, we can finally do more than ''just toss it with garlic and olive oil'' with our organic finds.

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-03-23T13:13:00.000-04:00

Showing off.

Icons.

Truths.

A Love Letter

2011-03-23T10:59:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

Dear Baltimore,

Please have a fabulous ball or gala or some 'regional celebrity' Harbor East bullshit so we have an excuse to bankrupt ourselves to buy this Chanel dream.

Love,

acharmedcity

Booked

2011-03-22T15:52:00.000-04:00

(All images courtesy of Postertext)

We just stumbled across these incredible Postertext prints and are insanely smitten. Pivotal scenes from classic literature are created using the actual text from the book. How awesome is that? We will most certainly be the proud owner of one of these prints just as soon as we can commit to a favorite.

Rewind

2011-03-22T14:07:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of The Sartorialist)

We are seriously feeling this bell-bottom, velvet platform look.

Pop, Lock, and Drop

2011-03-21T15:15:00.000-04:00

(We were enjoying our champagne and chocolate comas way too much to take pictures. Forgive us?)

To kick off what was sure to be a most excellent (and amnestic) weekend, we rolled out of bed way earlier than usual for a Saturday and whipped up a batch of homemade Pop Tarts. Our filling of choice was a combination of Nutella and orange marmalade, but the possibilities are endless. These take about 10 minutes to construct, taste great, and make Brunch guests think that you're a fancy, culinary genius.

Nutella and Orange Pop Tarts

Recipe after the jump

1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 sleeves of dough)

Nutella

Orange Marmalade

1 egg, beaten

Raw sugar or cocoa powder (opt)

Preheat oven to 375. Unroll dough onto a clean work surface. Using a pizza cutter or sharp paring knife, trim all four sides into a square and cut into four uniform strips. Spread Nutella and a dollop of marmalade on the bottom half of each strip. Fold top half of top over the filled portion and press edges to secure. Using a fork, poke holes in the top of each Pop Tart. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle wish raw sugar or cocoa powder. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

View from the Top

2011-03-21T14:19:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of City-Data)

Currently accepting friend applications from anyone with a sweet rooftop deck. Aerial bald spot hunting is the best accompaniment to boxed wine.

All You Need is Love

2011-03-21T10:02:00.000-04:00

Exciting news! Our lovely friend and fellow blogger Maxine (her name is Lauren, but due to some overlapping nomenclature she's Maxine to us) and her boyfriend John got engaged over the weekend! We're so happy for them and are sending lots of hugs and love to the happy couple in Cleveland.

Do yourself a favor and follow her blog as she plans the wedding... though they live in Ohio now, John and Maxine are both from the South and we're expecting a lot of southern influence (and even more Anthropologie) in their design for the big day. And we're also expecting-of course- that Maxine will make a stunning bride.

Congratulations!

The Sailors Say Brandy

2011-03-21T09:24:00.000-04:00

What a fabulously Baltimore weekend. We started it off eating Chipotle and watching Diner on Friday, sailed to Fort Carroll (aka Rat Island) on Saturday, headed over to Clipper Mill for the Gutierrez Memorial Lighting, had an impromptu dance party at Shine Creative, continued dancing in Mt Vernon until (yikes) the law had to shut it down at 6am and then spent Sunday recovering at Regis and watching My One and Only (the opening scenes of which were shot in our building!)

Here are some pictures from our weekend. And after work go get a cocktail at Woodberry to check out the new fire pit, for real. Or head to Gutierrez for First Fridays for fire side chats and lots of dancing.

A sail and bridge

A heterosexual love story

A fall from grace

A fortress of curiosity

A break from dancing

A fitting memorial

Hey Guys...

2011-03-18T16:32:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of this site.)

...this is happening super soon. Have an outstanding weekend.

xoxo,

2011-03-17T16:11:00.002-04:00

You'll have to excuse this picture for a few reasons. First of all, it features underage girls in various stages of undress. If this gets us in trouble with Chris Hansen, please set up a charmed city paypal account for our bail.(Actually, just set one up for us regardless.) Second of all, despite the alleged photographic powers of the iphone 4, this picture is grainy. Because Mr. Jobs is under the weather we'll let it go and blame it on the writhing pre-teens, but just this once.

Unless you're a fan of Gossip Girl or really angry chick rock, this post probably hasn't made much sense. Last night we spent thirteen American dollars to see The Pretty Reckless at the Otto Bar, and it was weird. Taylor Momsen, The Pretty Reckless' angsty front woman (girl? girl.), and star of the WB's Gossip Girl was exactly how we expected her to be; she's really mad, and she's going to not eat and bleach her hair until we all know it. Her dress looked edible, her avuncular band could have all used a shower and more age-appropriate group leader, and the crowd was a mixed bag . We were expecting teens and moms out for a spring break jaunt on the town, but instead the fans were middle-aged lesbians, local hipsters and young gays screaming the words over the PA.

Though we never did get down to the bottom of what makes Little J so angry, we did get cowboy boot hand stamps, Natty Boh on tap and stumbled across this sweet treat outside of the club:

Ahhh, youth. And before you get all up in our grill for taking a picture, please note that she was very rude, puked in front of the exit and refused our help.

Halo

2011-03-16T17:16:00.000-04:00

No joke, we have been listening to this sweet-ass cover on repeat all day.

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-03-16T10:55:00.000-04:00

Tiny rednecks

Friendly reminders

Waking up to bagpipes in our window on St Patricks Parade day

Truth

2011-03-16T10:05:00.000-04:00

"We need to make books cool again. If you go home with somebody and they don’t have books, don’t fuck them."

Preach it, Sister!

Old Maid

2011-03-16T09:54:00.000-04:00

Proof that we would die lonely spinsters in the cut-throat dating pool of the 1930's...

(All images courtesy of Hap Happy)

Orange You Glad

2011-03-15T12:51:00.000-04:00

Faced with the curious idea that an orange peel can taste delicious, we invested about two hours and nine dollars into proving that the bitter, tough, pockmarked orange peel could never be palatable. It took about three seconds to realize we were wrong. Who knew simmering something in sugar and then dipping it in chocolate could make it taste fantastic?

You win again, common sense.

Recipe after the jump.

Candied Orange Peels

7-10 medium oranges

5 cups Sugar

1 1/2 cups water

Dark chocolate chips

Rinse oranges and slice off ends

Quarter the peel in four places, being careful not to cut too deeply into the fruit

Remove peels from fruit and save for another recipe

Slice quartered peels into quarter inch strips (about five sliced per quarter peel)

Blanch peels by just covering them with cold water in a pot. Bring water to boil, drain peels and repeat twice more, beginning with cold water each time

In another pot, whisk 4 cups water in with 1 1/2 cups sugar

Bring to a boil, add blanched orange peels and reduce to a simmer

Let sit for 45 minutes or until peels become translucent.

Drain pot and save resulting orange syrup for iced tea (it's delicious)

Toss warm peels in sugar, coating each one

Let cool

In a double broiler, melt chocolate chips

Dip orange peels half way and lay on parchment paper to dry

Football

2011-03-14T17:10:00.001-04:00

Just a couple of guys sharing a love of soccer and spandex

In an effort to keep ourselves well-rounded, we snagged some seats to last night's Baltimore Blast game (soccer, for those who don't follow indoor pro sports leagues). While we could give a crap about the actual game unfolding before us, the real treat was the star studded halftime match featuring our buddies Jeff St. Pierre, and Staxx. In this 5 minute, nail biting, gladiator-esque scrimmage, our boys fought to the brink of exhaustion (ok, maybe not but they were super sweaty when they returned to our seats). Neither team scored (there's a reason why some of these guys sit in a chair in front of a microphone all day) but who doesn't love watching their friends pace a giant field, trying to decapitate their fellow media nerds? Well played, gentlemen. Well played.

We love sports

Time Bandit

2011-03-14T09:35:00.000-04:00

(Image courtesy of Framed Cooks)

Having not yet adpated to life sans an hour of sleep, waking up for work was more of a bitch than usual today. Not typically in the mood for Breakfast, this egg, bacon, brie, and spinach sandwich would have been the perfect prescription for a groggy Monday morning.

Wonder Bread

2011-03-10T15:10:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of this site.)

Just found out that after nearly 50 combined years of serious bread consumption, we never knew the little tabs that inevitably get tossed to make way for a half-assed knot serve a purpose. Each color corresponds to the day of the week the bread was baked! Like we needed to add to our stockpile of neurosis and random facts.

Even better, you don't have to cut out a rubric and stick it on your fridge under your snack-deterring Kirstie Alley magnet: The colors are alphabetized. Maybe it's Saturday and you've never wanted a turkey club more in your life but you've indulged in too many gin gimlets. Can't tell if your bread it moldy or stale? Just remember that if your tab is red or white you're probably good to go.

The more you know!

Forecast

2011-03-10T14:57:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

This is how today feels, but with less fish.

Bottle Rocket

2011-03-09T17:32:00.000-05:00

(Image courtesy of AMRadio via Etsy)

After spotting these vintage apothecary bottles on this Etsy shop, we're obsessed with converting our own collection into single bloom vases. Add it to the list of projects.....

Wedgie

2011-03-09T16:56:00.000-05:00

(Image courtesy of The Fashion Police)

We owe Jeremy Scott a kiss on the mouth for creating this clutch in the form of tighty whities. Disregard the fact that all of our underwear combined wouldn't amount to the $500 price tag. We still want it.

Gayborhood

2011-03-09T13:19:00.000-05:00

These are some pictures we took last night. They include

some sunlight,

some phalluses,

some bad roommates,

some nasty painted toes,

on some lazy ass boy,

and some seriously wonked eyes.

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-03-09T10:28:00.001-05:00

Food Porn

Bootlegging

Staycations

Pumped Up

2011-03-08T14:30:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of National Geographic)

This is quite possibly one of the coolest things that we have ever seen. Inspired by the movie Up, a group of our new personal heroes at National Geographic have created a flying house propelled by balloons. The 16 by 16 foot house is carried by 300 helium filled weather balloons and flew for about an hour. A-ma-zing. The project is part of a new series entitled How Hard Can It Be?, premiering this Fall.

The last few times we encountered National Geographic during a routine channel surf, our viewing options included Cannibal Hippos and My Child Is A Monkey. While neither of those instant classics made it to our DVR, we're curious to see what other ventures they have in store.

JFX Traffic

2011-03-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

(Image courtesy of this site.)

Just in case you care,

this warm day is making us wish we were stuck in a human traffic jam at the farmers market under 83.

Hooters

2011-03-08T12:07:00.003-05:00

Living with boys has proven to be rather...exceptional the past couple of days. It's always entertaining, but when you actually focus and take notes, you make some really interesting observations. They like to parade around the house (and sometimes outside) in bizarre attire, they really appreciate boobs, and when they suddenly become obsessed with a new food, they must have it every single day. Basically, it's like living with a small child. It is due in part to observation number 3 that we were literally forced to make Buffalo Wings last night. They were delicious and easy so we were by no means mad about. The only improvement would be the addition of a mute button for the ''Are they readyyyyyyyy'' laments coming from the living room.

Old Bay Buffalo Wings

Recipe after the jump

2 lbs chicken wing segments
1 bottle Frank's Red Hot
1 stick butter
1 tsp white wine vinegar
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Old Bay

Preheat oven to 350. Bake wings on a foil lined baking sheet for 30 minutes. Flip wings and cook for an aditional 30 minutes. In the meantime, melt butter in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Add 1 bottle of Frank's, vinegar, worcestershire, and S&P. Stir to incorporate. When wings are fully cooked and crispy, transfer to a large bowl. Pour sauce over wings, tossing until covered. Before serving cover wings in Old Bay. Serve with bleu cheese and celery sticks.

Cheapo

2011-03-08T11:26:00.000-05:00

Brian Atwood Maniac Pump $580

Michael Antonio Love Me Pump $42

While giving our hefty stack of Fall/Winter magazines a final flip through before they hit the recycling bin, we couldn't ignore one particularly annoying spread. The concept-timeless pieces that every woman should own-was a fabulous topic. The approach-all of these items must cost over $500-was completely batshit and unrealistic.

We wouldn't dare lie to you, so we freely admit to falling for super impractical, and overpriced items on a pretty regular basis. But when it comes to actually going through with the purchase, it basically never happens. Do a simple pair of nude pumps have to cost $580? Absolutely not. With about 10 seconds of googling and a good eye, a perfectly comparable pair can be yours for well under $100.

Spit Swab

2011-03-07T15:14:00.000-05:00

Call it hubris, but we're obsessed with DNA as art. This company takes your DNA (from a mailed spit sample, yum) and turns your unique code into frame-able, vibrantly colored art. It's a little pricey if you're on a budget, but how else could you ever display something so completely you?

Party On, Garth

2011-03-03T16:13:00.000-05:00

Work, be over for the day! Tonight is the City Paper Cosmic Cocktail Party, or as we're calling it, Adult Prom. We're replacing corsages with cab fare and chaperones with champagne, but it's basically the same thing. Even though the theme is cosmic, we both opted to keep things simple with basic dresses and fabulous accessories. If money were no object, we would have scooped up the items below. "Cosmic" is a hard style to define, but we think these funky pieces would fit right in.

Or you can go to The Zone like we did and score crazy costume jewelry for a fraction of the price.

And if you're going to the party tonight, see you there!

Somehow we think David Bowie would approve.

We'd ditch the alien-head hair, but keep the headband.

This Supernova JCrew necklace is the perfect companion to an LBD.

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-03-02T16:19:00.000-05:00

Business Women

Business Women.

Color Me Happy

2011-03-02T08:49:00.000-05:00

(Image courtesy of The Sartorialist)

It's impossible to look at this picture and not smile. Such a lovely beginning to our day.

Stomp the Yard

2011-03-01T15:21:00.000-05:00

(All images courtesy of Saks)

Completely fed up with our dirty Uggs (slightly embarrassing confession), and ready to throw our asses into a pedicure chair, we are beyond psyched for the return of sandals. Undeterred by the fact that we could stock a small boutique with our current collection, any shoe-whore worth a damn will inform you that there is always room for more.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

2011-03-01T13:38:00.002-05:00

(Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy)

After months of weather-related abuse, our once lovely front door is looking rather bleak. While we could simply go the boring route and replace it completely, our inner DIY'ers wouldn't dare pass up the opportunity. Armed with enough paint swatches to cover a football field, and a newly minted spot on Home Depot's shit list, we are ready to refurbish. After going back and forth for way too damn long, we have finally decided on a bright, sunny yellow to compliment our brick exterior and black shutters. Far from traditional, but we have to pull the selfish card on this one. Offended neighbors be damned! It's going to look amazing.

Kirk Douglas's Ear Lobes

2011-02-28T11:36:00.002-05:00

Some of our friends really half-ass things. We threw an Oscar party this weekend (and thank god because there was no way we would have gotten through it without wine and catty company) and asked everyone to bring a dish inspired by one of the nominated films. For our part, we roasted a duck in a dark sesame and honey glaze to turn it black, an obvious homage to Black Swan. We also attempted to create a Mr Potato Head cake in honor of Toy Story 3 and the results were terrifying. Like, Tim Burton-meets-the-cartoonists-of-Doug-meets-a-creepy-five-year-old-cake-maker terrifying.

Despite the less than stellar cake, we really put effort into our contributions. And while it would be unfair to say that no one else put thought into their food, it would be fair to say that a few guests shat the bed when it came to giving a shit.

The most creative interpretation was this severed hand chicken wing platter inspired, of course, by 127 hours.

We were going to take pictures of the other snacks, but figured no one would want to see a table full of clearance-priced gas station food. We ended up with a bowl of mini chocolate covered pretzels (The Social Network...); crustless wonder bread sandwiches with cucumber and cream cheese (The Kings Speech...); three bottles of alcohol-free "wine" (The Kids Are Alright...) and a chicken box from Royal Farms because "they ate fried chicken on the trail" (True Grit...).

As a punishment we'll leave them (and you) with the face of satan shimself:

Hurry Hurry

2011-02-25T14:23:00.000-05:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

This weather has got to go.

We're ready for

pool days

wine in the park

wine in the fountain in the park

sitting outside at Iggies

marathon drinking at little havana

walking to the charles theatre and then

stumbling home from club charles

first thursdays

open windows

sailing around the harbor

sailing to fort carroll to

plot our take-over of the island

dresses

boat shoes

not being see-through

daylight

BSC and the Painful Truth

2011-02-24T13:28:00.002-05:00

(Image courtesy of this site)

Remember how annoying the first chapter of every Babysitters Club book was? (No, just us?) Miss Martin spent precious ink and paper re-introducing each character and the club like we didn't already know about Kristy's bossiness and broken family, Claudia's crasian parents and art fetish, Dawn's Californian roots and absentee father, or Mary Anne's eating disorder and likely premarital sex (no one was fooled, Logan). Bret Easton Ellis (author of American Psycho) was also vexed by the redundant introductions and took time out from creating sexy urban killing machines to re-write each BSC character's introduction.

Here's a piece of Claudia's intro. We think you'll find it more than satisfactory.

My mom was crying in the front seat and if you knew my dad you’d know he never goes above the speed-limit, it’s just like one of those “never happens” scenarios, which I would probably ascribe to the fact that his daily dose of Valium that he thought he was hiding so well from the rest of the family had been dumped down the drain earlier in the week and replaced with Blue M&M’s. My mom’s Prozac prescription? Tiny crushed up pieces of Certs, inserted carefully back into gel-cap casings after I dumped out all her Happy Pills and let the Newton’s dog lick it up off the floor. Without their carefully regulated diet of feelings, my family was on the verge of a major meltdown. I caught myself smiling in the rear-view mirror and had to reapply my mask of “ambiguously ethnic inscrutability,” as Janine might call it.

Harper's Bizarre

2011-02-23T15:32:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of Harper's Bazaar)

Thank you to our latest issue of Harper's Bazaar for causing us to audibly giggle when you arrived in the mail. We totally understand the China Town theme here, but the panda suit is uber creepy. We look forward to seeing it in our nightmares later.

Let's Do the Time Warp Again

2011-02-23T13:41:00.000-05:00

When it comes to time-wasting, we like to fancy ourselves Grand Empresses. No thought, slow movement, invented game or blank stare can last too long during our embarrassingly-often fits of procrastination. During one such episode, we found these little cards from artist Alyson Provax's Etsy site. She succinctly showcases the art of doing (what appears) to be nothing, and makes procrastination look- dare we say it- productive.

Enjoy her meditations on nothingness and then get back to work, dammit.

Wednesday's Own... Things We Love

2011-02-23T13:07:00.000-05:00

Vacation breakfast.

Step Up 2: The Kitchen

Men in denim jumpers. In public.

Five Second Rule

2011-02-22T17:11:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of Apartment Therapy)

As much as we adore entertaining, accommodating more than six people can be a bit of a challenge. Luckily, our guests are as creative as they are ''thirsty'', so we always make do. If there is ever a time to force a few friends to eat off of an ottoman, it is most assuredly in your mid-twenties. Although they seem to be down with it, our next house will have to include a few more adult amenities (a dining room for starters). On second thought, an island with more seats than we could possibly fill will do just as well.

Massacre

2011-02-22T12:07:00.001-05:00

In celebration of a friend turning the big 3-0, we spent the majority of Saturday overindulging at Alexander's Tavern in Fells Point. While we got our fill of 5 for $15 craft buckets and tater tots smothered in crab dip, some of the more ''active'' party goers battled to the death (ok, not really) in round after round of the ever brutal shuffleboard. Drunk and bloodied, it was now time for dessert.

In our constant attempt to defy normalcy, we created a Birthday Cake Truffle in lieu of a standard cake. Not quite sure how the belligerent mob (not really, again) would react to this slap in the face of tradition, we hid amongst the fallen mathletes, awaiting our fate. As truffle crumbs littered the bar, we peered out from our hiding place only to discover that the once angry faces were now covered in chocolate stained smiles. Bellies full, and peace restored, we have created a masterpiece.

Birthday Cake Truffles

Recipe after the jump

1 box cake mix (we used Funfetti)

1 can frosting (Funfetti again)

2 bags chocolate chips (we opted for milk)

3 eggs

1/3 cup vegetable oil

Make cake according to instructions on the box. Allow to cool completely and crumble. In a large bowl, combine frosting and cake crumbs until fully incorporated. Using your hands, form bite-sized balls. Arrange on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour. In a double broiler, melt chocolate chips. Using a small fork, dip cake balls into melted chocolate. Spoon drops of chocolate over dipped truffles to cover any exposed cake. Return to freezer until fully hardened (about 1 hour).

Hot Mama

2011-02-22T10:04:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of Bleubird Vintage)

Completely ignorant to the world of parenting, our maternal instincts begin and end with remembering to change the litter box. Blissfully irresponsible at times, the idea of motherhood is a veeeeery distant and sometimes debatable concept to us. We associate it with lots of poop and a strict uniform of sweats and ratty tennis shoes.

While these rules may apply to some, Miss James of the wonderful Bleubird Vintage, has literally rocked our world. A mother of three with model good looks and a wardrobe that could make you cry, Miss James makes motherhood look, for lack of a more eloquent phrase, fucking awesome. Loaded with pictures of her beautiful family and their daily adventures, her blog makes us seriously reconsider our baby free lives (fear not boyfriends, not anytime soon). If and when that time comes, this is how we're going to do it.

Spade and Neutered

2011-02-17T16:20:00.000-05:00

We're a little late sharing this information with you, but you'll forgive our selfish, lazy ways. We've spent the last two days talking each other in and out of buying bags from the Kate Spade sample sale. In the end we both reluctantly decided that our glorious mid-month paychecks should be used for lesser purchases (food, phone bills, booze) but that doesn't mean you can't splurge on a fabulous bag.

And then let us borrow it.

Lite Brite

2011-02-17T14:35:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of Fashion Fame)

To the sheer delight of any Baltimorean, Mother Nature has decided to bump us off of her shit list for a few days and grace us with some sun. Temporary as it may be, this sudden heat wave is just the boost we needed to pull us out of the Winter blues. After enjoying a fabulous outdoor lunch (!!!) we're left daydreaming of breezy sundresses and the extinction of our transparent complexion.

Writing on the Wall

2011-02-16T17:19:00.001-05:00

(Images courtesy of Better Living Through Design)

Until recently, the thought of wallpapering our homes evoked images of our grandmother's powder room or the lobby at the MVA. We stand corrected, however. And trust when we say that this a superbly bitter pill to swallow, as being wrong is the absolute bane of our combined existence.

Primarily associated with her go-fuck-yourself amazing gowns, Vivienne Westwood has completely changed our feelings towards wallpaper. Through her collaboration with Cole & Son, the designer has bred new life into a decidedly geriatric trend. Gone are the days of muted pinks and monotone stripes. With the inclusion of bright abstracts, and magically non-preppy plaids, this collection is one that we are totally on board with. Now if only we didn't have to sell our house to afford covering a single wall.....

Hooker

2011-02-16T16:02:00.001-05:00

(Image courtesy of House and Home)

While we have grown accustomed to simply tossing our coats onto the nearest chair when we get home, a more civilized approach is in order. We've yet to find a traditional coat rack that suits our fancy but these antler wall hooks may be exactly what the doctor ordered. Wall art and function in one? Yes, please.

Wednesday's Own...Things We Love

2011-02-16T14:34:00.001-05:00

Corrupt superfoods

Options

Being brilliantly chic

Bien Sur

2011-02-16T09:40:00.001-05:00

Maybe it's our recent jaunt to Paris, and maybe it's our own (mildly) successful candle-making adventures, but we're really digging these Eiffel Tower candles. The French Market Etsy site has a lovely selection of note cards, spools and candles, and everything is inexpensive enough to give you a reason to give the Francophile in your life a 'just because' gift. And if you're the Francophile in your life, voici une boutique pour vous.

BHLDN

2011-02-14T14:46:00.000-05:00

After years of waiting, we finally get to see Anthropologie's first wedding line, BHLDN! Just in time for Valentines Day, these incredible (and affordable) vintage-inspired gowns have hit the racks, and we're obsessed. We need someone to get married immediately just so we can help design a wedding around the BHLDN shop. The wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses are divine, but we especially love the accessories, like these winter-wedding gloves, this clutch, and this pair of heels.

Enjoy perusing the goods, and if you're a close friend please consider getting married so we have a reason to buy things off this site.

McQueen Bee

2011-02-11T17:50:00.002-05:00

While we consider ourselves to be moderately fashionable, we will forever have people in our lives who put us to shame (who knew that H&M wasn't couture?). A master of the skinny pant and occasional bow tie, Patrick strikes again.

This time last year, the fashion world lost a titan-Alexander McQueen. And I think that it's only fitting to pay homage to this brilliantly innovative man. So to my favorite designer, and one of my favorite artists-you are missed. But your legacy lives on-especially when I get my hands on your gladiator sandals I've been desperately coveting.

I want that head piece

The shape, the construction, the drama

SJP with the man himself-one of my ALLTIME favorite red carpet looks

Flowy, feathery goodness

The last dress from his last collection-a swan song