Betty and Ruth

Foodie Friday - Fluffernutter

2013-05-31T14:54:00.000-04:00

When I was a kid there were only two things I would eat for lunch, peanut butter & fluff and peanut butter and jelly. When I got to college I was astounded by how many of my west-coast friends had never heard of fluff (is it an east-coast secret?). My meal choices have definitely expanded since childhood, but I'm always one for a throwback. I feel like it's my duty to all things kid to keep fluff alive and present, and I'm here to say it tastes just as good as an adult. May your weekend be as fun-filled as my lunch!

New Year, New York

2013-05-14T13:11:00.000-04:00

One of my New Year's resolutions was to revitalize my blog (yes, I know January 1st was 4 months ago). I took a break from blogging when it became more of a burden and less of a blessing, but I was shocked to realize that my last post was from September 2011. As often happens in relationships, my break turned into a break-up. It's not that I didn't miss blogging, and as my friends and family can attest, I certainly have not stopped shopping or cooking, but life got busy. A day became a week, a week a month, a month a year and before I knew it blogging was a true PASTime. There's no excuse, at least no good one, but I'm ready to pick it back up again - thanks in part to inspiration from my NEW city. To kick off my first spring post in New York, I'm leading with my 12 most inspiring moments from the last 12 months:

Getting engaged to the love of my life in our very first home
Finding the perfect wedding gown at Hitched (Perrine by Ulla-Maija)
A beautiful "goodbye DC" dinner with close friends at The Hamilton
Inheriting a cozy goodbye gift from my favorite DC hotel (thank you, W)
Finding a rent-stabilized, 2-bedroom apartment with natural light on the UWS in 2 days
A just-barely-squeezed-in Grand Cayman vacation pre-move to NYC where I tried scuba-diving for the first time
Moving to NYC
Weekly family dinners in the new, pre-war apartment
A fabulous bachelorette party in Miami and wedding shower in Boston
A dress fitting by Charles W. Bunstine II, former president of Barneys New York and Ulla-Maija's head designer, in the Ulla-Maija showroom
Marrying my best friend
A honeymoon spent exploring Thailand and ending at Six Senses Yao Noi

Thankful for Thakoon

2011-09-14T13:37:00.000-04:00

After debuting in 2004, Thailand-born Thakoon Panichgul is now a household name ... in the homes of fans like Michelle Obama and celebs like Reese, Cameron and Sienna. For his fall line he drew inspiration from the costumes of Versailles and the clothes worn by the Kenyan tribe. However the true genius in Thakoon's design is his ability to take far-reaching concepts and make them relatable. I'm especially a fan of his mixed prints and patterns.

Alice + Olivia

2011-08-04T10:33:00.000-04:00

What better way to slip slowly into Fall than with the Alice + Olivia Pre-Fall 2011 LookBook?

Since the label's 2002 launch women everywhere have been lining up to for designer Stacey Bendet's take on the perfect, well, you name it.

Stacey is the kind of designer that infuses a certain attitude into her clothing.

From pants to parties, there's something whimsically chic about all of her creations.

It's more than just a dress, it's a lifestyle to slip into for an evening that gives her pieces such lasting impact.

All EYES On Me

2011-06-21T16:47:00.000-04:00

Nothing quite captures the sweet, airy goodness of summer like eyelet - one of my favorite fabric patterns for the warm weather seasons. I've always had an soft spot for eyelet, to which I credit the canopy bed I slept in from age 13-18 (yes, it was glorious). When done right, it's subtle, elegant and adds just the right amount of femininity and romance to any look. What's not to love?

Foodie Friday - Quinoa Salad & Caramelized Onions

2011-06-17T14:29:00.000-04:00

I've decided to try something new for the blog and myself - COOKING! However, if you're a fan of Floral Friday do not fret, I am going to alternate every other Friday between Foodie and Floral. Although I am more of an aspiring foodie than an actualized one, I definitely travel, eat and cook enough to start writing about it! Plus, as a cook-in-training (for my personal life, not my work), I could use any advice you readers have to give and any great (easy preferred) recipes.

Quinoa Salad with Oranges and Dates

Baked Halibut with Scallions, Lemon and White Wine

This week I cooked two different meals: the first meal was a baked Halibut filet (cooked with scallions, lemon and white wine) with a Quinoa Salad consisting of dates, sugar-snap peas, mandarin oranges, red & yellow onions, pecans and some fresh mint. The second meal was Fusilli with Caramelized Spring Onions and White Wine (Cooking Light recipe), bread crumbs (tossed with olive oil and garlic then baked), and topped with sautéed portobello mushrooms and fresh parmesan cheese (both optional add-ons that I inserted into the recipe).

Caramelized Onions

Fusilli with Caramelized Spring Onions and White Wine

I would call both meals a success, but next time I would think about adding some fresh peas to the pasta to give it some additional sweetness and a bit more seasoning than the original recipe called for. Also, for those of you like me, who had never caramelized onions before, I would suggest adding a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon (per half-onion) of sugar-in-the-raw to speed up the caramelizing process. All in all a good first week!

*Disclaimer: the pictures used in this post are not my own, but I will use my finished product next time around!

Floral Friday - May Flowers

2011-05-13T16:27:00.000-04:00

If the old adage is true - April showers bring May flowers - there should be happy gardens aplenty in DC this summer, making my Floral Friday posts a real treat. For now, I'm enjoying the beautiful tulips and stargazing lilies my thoughtful boyfriend surprised me with.

Happy Friday!
xx, Betty&Ruth

Back Again?

2011-05-03T13:38:00.000-04:00

Are backpacks becoming trendy again? The last time I checked was 1999 as a freshman in high school when monogrammed L.L.Bean backpacks were the must-have item. That trend slowly petered out to give way to the messenger bag (Kate Spade if you were really on top of your game), finally culminating in the hype around luxury totes like Hervé Chapelier and Longchamp (circa 2002-Present).

I first started to notice backpacks again while pondering how to transport my ridiculously-heavy-outdated-work-laptop from my new apartment to work and back. A few days later, I spotted them again while looking at pics from Coachella, a 3-day music and arts festival in CA. Admittedly, the Coachella backpacks were more of a boho homage to Woodstock, but still a great alternative to the tote. I leave you with the following stylish options out there for backpacks - which one would you choose?

LOVE that dirty water...

2011-04-26T16:07:00.000-04:00

Being a Boston sports fan in DC is easy since there isn't much "city" sports pride here (aside from the CAPS). Case in point the Red Sox game I attended at Nationals stadium last year - 99% Boston fans, 1% DC. That said, I don't get the chance to attend many Boston games anymore so when tickets fall into my lap, like tonight's Red Sox vs Orioles game, I always accept.

GO SOX!!!
xx, Betty & Ruth

7 looks for Spring

2011-04-19T11:59:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth and James is the brainchild of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Created with the intent to bridge the gap between designer and contemporary fashion, their apparel, accessories and shoes are the perfect blend of uncomplicated, urban street-chic. One of my favorite online shopping sites, Shopbop.com, did a brilliant job showcasing seven different looks from the E&J 2011 Spring/Summer line. With outfits for everything from a music festival to a spring wedding, it's the perfect mix of seasonal inspiration and practicality.

walk THIS way

2011-04-14T16:17:00.000-04:00

I recently promised a friend that I would blog about "proper commuter shoes." I realize this means different things to different people, but for this particular friend it's a hot topic of conversation and VERY black and white - no Rainbows, UGG boots or otherwise deemed casual footwear allowed. Above all else, she doesn't want to see your exposed feet passing her by on the sidewalk or metro ... unless of course they're in peep-toe heels or "pretty sandals". My view is slightly more accepting since I happen to be dealing with a foot injury and can now sympathize with people who choose comfort over chicness (side note: I believe there's a happy medium in every style except maybe stilettos). Here are my picks for 5 shoes you can comfortably and chicly commute in:

Blue Monday

2011-04-11T16:50:00.000-04:00

Normally I wake up Monday mornings repeatedly smacking the snooze button in hopes that time will somehow rewind into Sunday, but today was different. Today is beautiful, sunny and warm for the first time in forever... or since last week, whichever reality you prefer. And there's no better way to celebrate the sun than by sharing a great new lookbook from Planet Blue, filled with tons of inspiring, can't-get-enough-of beachwear. You'll be wishing you were a beach rat by the time you're done parusing these pics...

Floral Friday - The Getty

2011-04-08T17:12:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I experienced my first trip to LA. Yes, I know, hard to believe for a jet-setter such as myself, but it's true. Among the many fun things we crammed into the trip (visits with family & friends, great meals in Santa Monica, Venice and Silver Lake, shopping on Montana, Robertson and Rodeo... well, window shopping on Rodeo, and a Hollywood premier for Nintendo 3DS), my absolute favorite spot was the Getty Museum. If you've never been, I highly suggest going - it's one of the most beautiful, unusual indoor and outdoor spaces I've ever seen. The gardens are stunning and the building itself is an incredible architectural accomplishment. I couldn't think of a better place to feature for today's Floral Friday!

tipTOEing around

2011-03-29T16:42:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air and I'm in love...

...with peep-toe booties. It started out the usual way, a sly glance from a distance followed by a chance encounter in one of my favorite stores and finally the first touch. After that I couldn't get them out of my mind. I kept picturing them with frilly summer dresses, denim shorts and cropped trousers. Suede, tumbled leather, lace-up, zipped and even sling-back - I had to have them. I'm happy to admit that I now own two pairs. The first from a great sale at J. Crew and the second from an impulse buy at a great LA boutique (thank you Kitson!). Where will you find yours?

SPRING into color

2011-03-14T14:42:00.000-04:00

March in DC is such a tease - it's freezing then warm within 24 hrs, and a total guess as to whether or not the next day will follow suit. Plus, retail stores are all flaunting new spring lines, meaning even if your body is still in winter mode, your mind will be filled with envious spring and summer activities... like happy hours at the water front that would be the perfect place to debut your new green pants, flouncy top and peep-toe canvas booties. One of my favorite new looks for spring is color-blocking with bright separates. Pick two bold pieces that you wouldn't normally pair together or tone it down by pairing one bright piece with a neutral. Keep in mind, if you go for two bold colors, it's best to keep your shoes neutral and accessories light.

Annie Get Your Gun

2011-03-04T14:45:00.000-05:00

In an attempt to appeal to a younger demographic, Anne Hathaway and James Franco co-hosted the 83rd Academy Awards last Sunday.

They were charming, unassuming and above all else, beautiful. Although Franco held his own, Hathaway clearly stole the show with a record eight costume changes.

From Valentino to Oscar de la Renta, Armani, Vivienne Westwood, Givenchy, and Tom Ford, each gown was more stunning than the last.

My personal favorite wasn't a dress at all, but rather a Lanvin tuxedo, tailored to perfection (see below)

With a little help from Rachel Zoe, celebrity stylist and Bravo TV reality star, and some serious designer love, Hathaway could do no wrong...

Happy Hearts

2011-02-14T11:28:00.001-05:00

In my heart I know Valentine's Day is a Hallmark holiday, brilliantly construed to sucker us into buying cards, candy and flowers (you have to appreciate the genius behind this marketing). Knowing all that I still can't help but get sucked in year after year, but I think it's okay. If your theory behind hating Valentine's Day is that you should appreciate your loved ones year round then I agree - take one more day and do something to show your family and friends how much you care. Tip of the day: A little goes a long way. A gesture like mailing hand-written cards is an easy, thoughtful way to show your love and appreciation.

Happy Valentine's Day!

xx, Betty&Ruth

Diane Von Furnishing

2011-02-09T16:37:00.000-05:00

Diane Von Furstenberg launched her fabulous (as if it would be anything but) new line today, Diane Von Furstenberg HOME, which is being offered first at Bloomingdales. The collection features the designer's signature, nature-inspired styles, dramatic patterns and bold colors.

I can't think of anything more enticing after a long day at work than slipping out of a DVF wrap dress and under one of her vibrant duvets.

Floral Friday - 100,000 Words

2011-02-04T14:06:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago I went to Chicago to visit some friends from college... and yes, it was cold (high of 16 degrees all weekend!). Despite the frigid temperature, we made it out to some great foodie and cultural spots. Our friends planned a fabulous weekend, highlights of which included the iO Chicago Theater (alumni include Tina Fey, Mike Meyers and Chris Farley), Table Fifty-Two (Art Smith's - Oprah's former chef - restaurant), The Bean, MoCP and a phenomenal exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center showcasing the newly discovered works of Vivian Maier.

Like many great artists before her, Maier's is being recognized posthumously. In an unbelievable discovery, 100,000 of her negatives were found after a box from a commercial storage locker was auctioned off in 2007. Now she is being compared to famously self-taught photographers like Harry Callahan. Her insightful photographs speak for themselves as they transport viewers back to the 1950's, 60's and 70's in the blink of an eye (or a lens in this case). To learn more, read the NY Times article, New Street Photography, 60 Years Old.

Rose Colored Glasses

2011-02-01T13:24:00.000-05:00

Clearly playing off spring rejuvenation, Talbots attempts to breath life into their own brand by enlisting Julianna Moore as the new face of their Spring 2011 ad campaign. Talbots' chief creative officer Michael Smaldone told People.com that Moore was selected because she "exemplifies everything we want as the face of the brand. She's a very active, beautiful, soulful woman." From the amount of press the new campaign is receiving, I'd say it's a step in the right direction for Talbots. Moore looks as lovely and youthful as ever in this feminine, fresh preview.

Floral Friday: Fleur-de-lis

2011-01-28T11:38:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I traveled to New Orleans for work and then pleasure (it was definitely more pleasure than work overall). I ate at the most fabulous restaurants (Bayona, Cochon, K-Paul's Kitchen), went to Cafe Du Monde for coffee and beignets and even participated in a company sanctioned Mardi Gras-style parade (complete with masks/beads, jesters, a marching band and police detail). New Orleans is known for its flamboyant, outrageous, bold personality, but what caught my eye was one of the city's most prominent symbols - the fleur-de-lis. Widely associated with the French monarchy, The fleur-de-lis is a stylized lily that is, at one and the same time, political, dynastic, artistic and emblematic. Over the years, they have been seen on everything from buildings and mosques to coats of arms and sports paraphernalia. Since lilies are my favorite flower it's no wonder I had such an immediate affinity for this symbol.

Search Result

The Golden Rule

2011-01-26T11:09:00.000-05:00

I realize the Golden Globes were a few weeks ago now, but I've been traveling and haven't had a chance to comment on my choices for best and worst dressed until now (you may say I came tardy to the party). This year, the Globes produced an eclectic range of gown colors and styles. From Angelina's sparkling, emerald green Atelier Versace to Amy's beautiful, navy Marchesa gown, old Hollywood glamor was in full swing, which in my opinion is the Golden Rule to a show-stopping Golden Globes.

BEST

WORST

SHEAR madness

2010-12-22T15:48:00.000-05:00

It's been colder than usual in DC the last few weeks and all I can think about are ways to stay warm - sipping hot cocoa and apple cider, snuggling by the fire with a good book and watching movies curled up in blankets. Unfortunately, reality forces me to leave my apartment and brave the great outdoors (otherwise known as the city). This year, I'm bringing a little warm and cozy outside with a touch of shearling (and I'm not talking about UGG, although I still love mine). My favorite boots this season combine the practicality of warmth with aesthetic appeal. Does it get much better than these?

Company Cocktails

2010-12-08T15:40:00.000-05:00

As soon as Thanksgiving ends, I start thinking about what to wear to my company's holiday party. Having worked for both small and large corporations, I've had a variety of holiday party experiences, but the rule remains the same: when dressing for a work function always start with what NOT to wear. It seems like an obvious Q&A, but year after year I see women who've clearly missed the appropriate boat and sailed into more scandalous harbors. Here are some helpful holiday dress tips...

DON'T wear anything too

Low-cut (wouldn't you rather be looked in the eye than the chest?)
Tight (work place or not, a little mystery can go a long way)
Short (unless you're working the corner, leave your mini at home; if you're on the fence always air on the conservative side)

Do wear

Festive Jewelry (by festive I mean gemstones, pearls or bobbles not a string of Christmas lights or little plastic Santa's)
Tights (this was a big debate in my office this year, but I think tights are a great way to glam up your outfit - try a fun color or pattern - and stay classy!)
Shoes with personality (if your outfit is on the safer side, kick it up on a notch with some great shoes - try a metallic or bold color)

Floral Friday - Sweet Pink

2010-12-03T13:41:00.000-05:00

By now, I'm sure most of you are familiar with my floral obsession. Whether it's giving them, getting them or just appreciating passing them, I adore flowers. My favorite, without a doubt, is the spontaneous flower give. This year, I spent Thanksgiving week with my family and away from my boyfriend, who was across the country with his own family. He surprised me by arriving home early and knocking on my door first thing in the morning with a beautiful bouquet of pink flowers and coffee (also much appreciated). I encourage all of you to surprise someone you love today! Tis the season...