A Simple Affair

Happy Holidays

2012-11-19T06:01:00.000-06:00

Well friends, I am ducking out early this year. I want to kick off the holiday season by spending as much time with my family and friends as possible.

I can't wait to drink big cups of hot chocolate by the fire, watch every Christmas movie on Hallmark and Lifetime, meet up with old friends coming home for the holidays, eat so much food that you just have to take a nap, make snow angels, and so much more.

Wishing you and yours the happiest of holiday seasons!

{image via}

Bookworm

2012-11-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

The perfect Sunday? The biggest sweater I can find, a hot cup of chai, and a pretty book by my side.

{image via}

In all honesty, I have gotten hooked on Sophie Kinsella and want Can You Keep a Secret? and I've Got Your Number to become movies immediately please and thank you. But beyond my little rom-com books, I have still been dreaming of the perfect coffee table collection. These three beauties are on my radar.

Marilyn | Balenciaga | Kelly Wearstler

What have you been reading lately?

Elsewhere

2012-11-17T08:30:00.000-06:00

This week, I loved Anna's great idea for a post and all of the inspiration I found from it! Several of us created different looks based off of a pair of leather pants. Here was mine and hop on over to A Newfound Treasure to see the rest.

Sloane was also kind enough to feature me as this week's 'It Girl'! You can find some wonderful gift guides and outfit posts on her blog, Sailing the Sea of Style.

Thanks ladies!

Gift Guide: For the Hostess with the Mostess

2012-11-15T06:01:00.000-06:00

Dapper Bottle Stopper // Cape Jasmine Bottle Stopper // Bamboo Cheese Knife // Amethyst Salt and Pepper Shaker // Ace Bottle Opener // Fuchsia Lizard Coasters // Rae Dunn by Magenta Cheese Markers // Slate Cheese Board with Soapstone Chalk // Glitter Salad Set // Coral Matches // Cheers Wooden Sign // Heirloom Recipe Card Box

I absolutely adore the personality of each piece. The 'cheers' sign would look oh so perfect on a pretty little bar cart, no? Time to throw a party!

Cozy On Up

2012-11-14T14:30:00.000-06:00

It's about that time again, at least in Wisconsin. We had our first snow flurries this week and now I'm wearing as many layers as possible. This was just the inspiration I needed to layer up while being cozy and chic.

Some of my essentials: a cowl neck sweater, a vest to maximize layering, and a neutral scarf.

Bring it on Mother Nature.

Images via 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Gift Guide: For the Gadgets and Gizmos Lover

2012-11-14T06:01:00.000-06:00

Native Union 'Pop Phone' Handset // Printed Backup Battery for iPhone // Kate Spade La Pavilion Earbuds // Bop Basics Texting Gloves // Wacom Bamboo Pen Tablet // Mini Wooden Speaker // Apple Magic Mouse // Kate Spade USB Bow // UGG Australia Leather & Shearling Tech Earmuffs // Universal Smart Phone Dock // The Sharper Image Electric Wine Opener // Logitech Ultrathin iPad Keyboard Cover

I find myself loving little gadgets and gizmos more and more and would happily accept any these, especially my personal favorites the phone dock, pop phone, and printed backup battery!

Gift Guide: For the Paper Product Lover

2012-11-13T06:01:00.000-06:00

Finally, the start to some fun gift guides! As I've mentioned earlier, I pride myself on being an early holiday shopper. Last year I was done in the summer. I can't help that when I find something perfect for a family member, friend, or the boyfriend, I snatch it up. I listen year-round and have an ongoing list so I'm not stumped come November/December. Plus, I actually prefer giving gifts and seeing his or her reaction when you find something perfect for that special someone.

Rifle Paper Co. Hanging Garden Notepad // Sugar Paper Bright Notes // Sugar Paper Kraft To Do List // Quips & Queries Boxed Set // Personalized Things To Do Notepad // Personalized Circle Monogram Notepad // Custom Self-Inking Stamp // Sugar Paper Black Bow Noteset // Casual Thank You Cards // Kate Spade Pop Fizz Clink Holiday Cards

Everyone could always use a little more pretty for their ongoing lists, and who doesn't love sending and/or receiving a beautiful card?

Vegas Recap

2012-11-12T07:01:00.000-06:00

Like I mentioned last night, Bill and I had an amazing time in Vegas. The nights definitely cooled down while the wind picked up, but what can you do? We saw Jersey Boys and LOVE and don't ask me to choose which I loved more because they both exceeded my expectations. When we weren't seeing shows, we were eating, gambling, and walking all over The Strip.

The wonderful Shop Bijous gifted me some beautiful bracelets that arrived just in time for the trip, and I kind of want to wear them every day along with these F21 leggings, LC Lauren Conrad Sweater, and Banana Republic Flats {that I got 50% off!}.

All in all, it was an amazing trip, but now it's time to get used to the cold and get ready for some of my favorite holidays! Stay tuned for some fun gift guides on the blog as gift giving is truly one of my favorite parts of the season! I may or may not have considered wrapping some this weekend, call me crazy.

And We're Off!

2012-11-07T06:01:00.000-06:00

The boy and I are on our way to Las Vegas bright and early today! Not only did we need some warmer weather, but we also decided this would be part of our Christmas/early anniversary gift to each other or for ourselves, however you want to look at it. Either way, I'm excited.

For once, I didn't plan every little detail {and it feels pretty good} so if you have any restaurant recommendations, by all means, please share!

{image via}

OMG Shoes

2012-11-06T12:00:00.000-06:00

Madewell Boots // Sam Edelman Booties // Loeffler Randall Loafers // Rag & Bone Flats // alice + olivia Pumps

Lately, I have been wearing booties and loafers more than ever before.

What are you gravitating towards this fall?

Fall Colors and Texture

2012-11-06T07:41:00.000-06:00

{boots // flats}

These few pieces have been on high rotation for me this fall. I love the hues and especially the texture of the mustard jacket and metallic top. The texture and colors can stand on their own, but intermixed, I love them even more. Need to liven up some pieces in your closet? Layer, layer, layer! That grey sweater had not left my closet for far too long, and I loved how it paired with chambray. It was given a whole new life.

If you're in the Milwaukee area and need some help livening up your closet, that's what I'm here for!

{follow me on Instagram here, @carlyhaslee}

Layered Dots

2012-11-05T06:01:00.000-06:00

Old Navy Polka Dot Chambray Top // Old Navy V-Neck Sweater // 7 For All Mankind Denim {similar}

Aldo Booties // Michael Kors Watch // David Yurman & Kate Spade Jewelry

Necklace and bag are from boutiques in Japan

My brother was home from college this weekend so we had some major family time. Board games, shopping, and lots and lots of delicious food.

As the temperature continues to drop, I am all about layering. This dotted piece may just become a new staple in my closet. It adds the perfect pretty pattern and adds some fun personality to any ensemble. The price made me love it even more {purchased with a coupon too, of course!}.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! xo

Thank You

2012-11-02T08:56:00.000-05:00

In a month filled with giving thanks, I wanted to take the time today to give a big fat thank you to all of my amazing friends, family, and readers for not only all of your love and support yesterday about my feature on The Everygirl, but for the last year as well. I started this blog in September of last year but never knew quite what I was doing until about January of 2012. Not like I knew or will ever know every little thing there is to know, but let's just say it was smoother sailing and more consistent posting from that month forward. I never imagined where this blog would take me and all the wonderful people I would meet along the way, but for that and for so much more, I am truly grateful.

Stay tuned for some fun posts lined up for next week, but as for today, cheers to you! xo

The Everygirl Fashion Feature

2012-11-01T13:00:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be featured on The Everygirl today-hop on over to find some fall outfit inspiration here!

A big thank you to my wonderful sister for taking the pictures and to TEG team!

Eggtastic Strorage

2012-11-01T06:01:00.000-05:00

Oh hey, November. How does each month continue to sneak up on me? The good news: we gain an hour this weekend, and I don't know about you, but I could really use another hour in my life right about now.

{Side note: I'm still convinced I lost an hour of life from having Daylight Savings in both Ireland and the US one year. A whole 60 minutes, just gone before my eyes. Obviously I'm still not over it}.

Anyways, a new month is the perfect time to start getting a tad more organized. Why not tackle some jewelry?

This egg crate {last seen here} is still one of my favorite purchases. It's now home to more earrings and dainty necklaces and still doing its job beautifully. Not only is the tray the cheeriest of blues, but it is also functional. Place it atop your dresser or in a drawer so you have quick and easy access to your little gems.

Stay tuned for an exciting post later today!

Orange You Glad?

2012-10-31T06:01:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and yours a Happy Halloween today, but more importantly sending my love to all of those on the East Coast. Still thinking about you here in Wisconsin!

Love the gold accent hair pieces as much as I do? Here is the one I'm ~~slightly~~ completely obsessing over, and I also love this option. Such a great way to spruce up a ponytail.

{images via 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 }

GET THE LOOK

Bada Bling, Bada Boom

2012-10-30T07:46:00.000-05:00

Dex Polka Dot Sweater // Oasis Aran Sweater // Shop Bijous Georgia Statement Necklace

Loren Hope Gwyneth Necklace // Madewell Sade Marled Striped Pullover // H&M Necklace

One of my favorite ways to feel a little more glamorous as the cold weather approaches is to pair some of my coziest sweaters with my flashiest jewelry. You can mix and match until your heart so desires!

From the Kitchen: Apple Crisp

2012-10-29T06:01:00.000-05:00

Hope you all enjoyed your pre-Halloween weekend! Mine was filled with lots of candy and only the best movies, Halloweentown and Hocus Pocus. I have very high standards obviously. I thought this would be the perfect week to share one of my favorite fall recipes.

We got the recipe from Barthel Fruit Farm, our go-to spot for apple picking. My dad and I whipped up this bad boy last weekend, and it didn't last very long.

Preheat oven to 350. Layer sliced apples in a greased 8x8 pan and then mix remaining ingredients over the apples. Bake for 30 minutes or until toppings are golden brown.

Serve à la mode, and it is just heavenly.

BaubleBar Friends and Family

2012-10-25T13:00:00.000-05:00

Did you know that in my spare time I am a jewelry judge who specializes in pastel pieces? Yeah, no that's a lie. But today I'm making myself one, and this is no easy task, friends. Here are my top three picks.

Peri Quad Strand // Mint Tab Strand // Rose Triad Strand

These beauties will be your best friends come winter when it's cold and dark outside, and you need a little somethin' somethin' to put a smile on your face.

The extra great news? BaubleBar is having their Friends and Family sale! Enter BBFAMILY at checkout for 25% off your order. They're making their budget-friendly pieces even friendlier.

So kind.

The Sun Don't Set On A...

2012-10-24T06:01:00.000-05:00

I don't know how I survived some of my first years driving without sunglasses. Not only do they highly improve safe driving {yes, I do tell myself that especially on days when the sun is just out of control and don't even get me started on the glare in the heart of the winter} but they are also one of my favorite accessories.

So, what's your preference? Black? Tortoise? Cateye? Round?

I'm currently on a tortoise kick, and these just may be my number one pick.

Urban Outfitters: For the Home

2012-10-23T06:01:00.000-05:00

I'll be honest, I feel like I have forgotten about Urban Outfitters and only been thinking about Anthropologie. But shame on me, because Urban has some seriously pretty and wonderfully quirky pieces for the home. Whether you're looking for some pops of color, texture, or just a piece that makes you smile, they have it.

Umbrella Stand // Feather Curtain Tie-Back // Honeycomb Glass Pendant Shade // Weiner Dog Catch-All Dish

Awesome Owl Catch-All Dish // The End Bookend // Ceramic Elephant Ring Holder

Cork Letters // Invisible Double Book Shelf // Camera Bank

The owl is hands-down my favorite. That yellow is beautiful.

Can you tell I'm on an animal kick?

Life Lately

2012-10-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Lately, I have been getting outside and enjoying fall to the fullest and baking more of these muffins. Seriously delicious. I have also been incorporating more color to my wardrobe which makes some of those chillier fall days a little more cheery.

Have you made it to a pumpkin patch yet? Indulged in some caramel apples? What else is on your fall bucket list?

Find me on Instagram here.

DIY Coasters

2012-10-19T06:01:00.000-05:00

This past weekend my mom and I brought out our crafty sides that we hadn't fully embraced since she was my Girl Scouts leader, and well, that was a long time ago. She chose to use some scrapbook paper and mod podged it to the tiles and then used three coats of mod podge over the paper. I chose to use some spray paint. We both tried some acrylic paint but didn't get clean enough lines. The one paint we didn't mind was a glitter gold because we didn't notice as many areas where the lines weren't perfect thanks to the glitter.

I used one small strip of tape in between each strip instead of measuring anything-that sure sped up the process.

Don't spray too much paint-been there, done that, didn't work. I actually love the ombre-esque effect on this set.

This is the really important part! Take tape off right away for crisp lines!

To Finish Off The Coasters:

+ Let dry // I left them overnight just for kicks and giggles.

+ Coat with Mod Podge // I used 2 coats because I didn't want it to get too thick.

+ Cut cork into squares // My mom was a rock star with this. She cut 4x4 inch squares with the help of her handy-dandy X-ACTO knife + a ruler, of course, and I did the gluing {a skill in and of its own I tell ya}.

+ Place books on top of coasters to make sure the cork adheres to tile.

And simply enjoy your morning drink of choice: mine would be Chai Tea thank you very much.

Happy weekend, lovelies! xo

Think Pink

2012-10-18T07:37:00.001-05:00

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I thought I would round up all things pink today. To learn more about how you can help, visit here.

BaubleBar Necklace // Tiny Prints Holiday Card {someone PLEASE get this and send me a pretty card with your pup on it!} // J.Crew Sweater // Rugs USA Rug // Tiny Prints Return Address Label // Design Darling Matches

Tilly Maison Dipped Mug // Society Social Pillow

How pretty is that Riffle Paper Co. designed return address label?

Wedding Wednesday

2012-10-17T08:47:00.000-05:00

Remember this wedding I shared awhile ago-one of my best friends' who happens to be Bill's cousin as well {win win for me!}. Well, I wanted to share some of the details today because she did all of the graphic design for the wedding. She truly embodied hers and her husbands personality through the colors and font choices, which I maintain is a hard task to do. And the theme? Milwaukee's Best. So perfect and again, so them.

They named the tables based on specific Milwaukee landmarks and placed people strategically at tables that there was a story behind {and also a great talking point if the guests didn't know each other}. The escort cards were also a little DIY project-of course, Lexi designed the cards and the kooizes. Then with an x-acto knife, some glue, wooden rods, and some paper confetti, these were created.

Lexi's mom got to crafting on the mason jars. She primed and sprayed them all, and they were beautiful! I loved the mix of sizes and how each jar contained just one type of flower. Stephanie at Sendik's is just amazing. There's really no other word to describe her.

How great right? If you have any graphic design needs, let me know, and I would be more than happy to put you in touch with Lexi. She just gets it and has an amazing eye. I loved seeing all of her hard work come to life. The wedding was a truly magical day, and I could not be happier for the newlyweds!

.......

Photography by Liz Doering Photographs {and I may just have to include more next week because she and her daughter KK got so many amazing shots and not to mention are two of the nicest ladies I have ever met}