CouldIHaveThat

Memorial Day Style

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

There's nothing better than an extra long weekend. I for one have been looking forward to Memorial Day these past couple of weeks and making big plans to eat some good food, relax, hang out with friends and soak in the sunshine (fingers crossed we get some). I'll be turning to outfits that are easy, comfortable, stylish and can be dressed up on whim with a pair of heels. Lately shorts and blousy tanks have been my go-to, among them this one from Tailor & Stylist—a boutique founded by a longtime Rodeo Drive tailor and stylist. I highly suggest checking out the site which has tons of great finds at great prices, plus they offer free shipping! Use this code for 10% off: HaveThat10.

Tailor & Stylist top, Zara skort and heels, BaubleBar rope bracelet, Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Celine sunglasses, J.Crew hat.

Psst, the Nordstrom's Half Yearly Sale starts today—40% off friends! And because I'm on such a shorts and blousy tops kick, here are some options I found at Norstrom.

DIY: Paper Luminarias + Stir Sticks

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Tue, 21 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

When choosing all of the details for our Mexican style rehearsal dinner there were two things I wanted to incorporate: fun lighting and a tasty cocktail. Stephanie Sanders of Shindig events helped us figure out how to achieve both elements while sticking to a budget. Here are two simple DIY projects that she put together that are stylish and cost affective.

Paper Luminarias

supplies:

• candles in clear glass holders (assorted sizes work great for variety)

• paper cardstock

• all-over paper punches (martha stewart brand)

• scissors

• glue stick

• ruler

Step 1: measure around the candle and cut the cardstock for an accurate fit. You can vary heights or make them all the same—whatever you prefer.

Step 2: select an all-over paper punch. You can punch a specific pattern or at random. Luminarias are very forgiving and look beautiful when lit no matter what—anything goes! Place glue along the entire edge of the paper and wrap around the candle. Dry for at least 30 minutes. Light and enjoy!

Fiesta Stir Sticks

Supplies:

• tissue paper

• bamboo or wooden skewers

• scissors

• glue

Step 1: Fold a piece of tissue paper in half. Cut a 3" rectangle and fringe at the crease (leave 1/4" at the open edge).

Step 2: Glue the inside of the open edges together and put glue along one of the non-fringed sides. Step 3: Place the stick on the glue at the edge and roll the stick until all of the tissue paper is glued onto the stick.

Step 4: Adjust fringe as necessary, grab your cocktail and stir!

images by cory sanders

Three and Three

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

There's no place I'd rather be on a sunny day than my home base, Santa Barbara. With so many amazing beaches, restaurants, boutiques and hiking trails it's almost impossible not to fall in love with this coastal gem. Intermix recently asked me to style three looks at three of my favorite local pit stops. Head over to my Santa Barbara Black Book here to see more of my favorite haunts.

#1 Butterfly Beach—the best spot for catching sunsets.

Missoni poncho and headband, Jimmy Choo wedges.

La Arcada—perfect for an afternoon coffee and some home/vintage shopping.

Rag & Bone blazer and top, A.L.C. skirt and Brian Atwood heels.

Lucky's—a Montecito restaurant with a fun atmosphere, the best steaks in town and my favorite dessert (the Salty Turtle Sundae).
Rag & Bone blazer and top, J. Brand denim shorts and Brian Atwood heels.

images by jacqueline pilar

Be sure to check out the new Intermix Santa Barbara store opening later this month in Montecito!

Bits and Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:09:00 +0000

{ Currently on a leopard print kick and loving this bag c/o Cashhimi. }

Today I'm off to Palm Springs with nine of my closest gal pals for a bachelorette weekend. I've been giddy this whole week just thinking about being in the warm temps, poolside, with a cocktail in hand and laughing until it hurts—a guaranteed with this crowd. Here are some bits and tips as of late!

{ The sweetest shower gift we received—a handmade breadboard with our initials and the year branded on it. }

{ A new favorite mascara by Korres that I recently discovered. The brush is the best I've tried and it makes my eyelashes significantly fuller. }

{ Tropical prints, I can't get enough of them right now—Express palm print clutch. }

{ A fully stocked cookie jar. }

{ A Stelle Audio pillar that we're obsessed with. We've taken it to the beach for a bonfire, played it outside in the garden and in our home. Plus I love how slick it looks. }

{ Congratulations to Jana who won the Therapy x Marit Rae giveaway—this puppy is coming your way! }

top and bottom images by jacqueline pilar

The Rehearsal Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

{ Bougainvillea in glass vases and neutral linens. }

A destination wedding in Mexico was high on our list when we got engaged, so when we opted for a wedding at home in Santa Barbara the rehearsal dinner theme was a no brainer—fiesta! Helping us bring our Mexican-style party to life is the amazing Stephanie Sanders of Shindig Events. I'm giddy just thinking about all of the design details she's come up with and antsy for July to arrive. I'll be sharing a few of the DIY projects she's been up to soon but until then here are some elements we'll be incorporating.

{ Mexican paper flags. }

{ Mariachi band—we just picked one out! }

{ Miniature tacos and margaritas. }

{ Churros and chocolate. }

Caramelized Garlic Tart

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Wed, 15 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

I bought this tart pan months ago with the idea that I would become a tart-making master. Not so. Instead it found a hiding spot in our kitchen cabinet and my motivation fizzled—partly because of intimidation I'll admit. But after finding a recipe in this cookbook I've been devouring, I regained my cooking confidence and whipped one up for Mother's Day. Not only was it beyond delicious but my fear of making tarts is ancient history.

{Break} The Rule

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

So they say, you're only allowed to wear white jeans from June (after Memorial Day) until September (Labor Day)—pshh I say wear those puppies all year long. However, the best time to shop for them, is now. I gladly picked up this pair from Old Navy and have been living in them since. And considering I can't wear white jeans without spilling something on them (it's a wierd curse I can't explain) the $20 price tag is especially appealing.

Old Navy jeans, Ace & Jig top (similar), Nisolo sandals, Garret Leight sunnies, J.Crew hat, Celine bag, Jennifer Fisher gypsy finger rings, Ariel Gordon ring.

images by Jacqueline Pilar

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com

Ice Cream Date

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Mon, 13 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Over the weekend the temperatures reached high 80's which meant one thing had to happen, an ice cream trip. But aside from cooling down in the shade with a chilly treat I resorted to loose dresses like this Cynthia Rowley one I found thanks to Amazon Fashion. I'm nuts over the psychedelic paisley pattern and subtle hits of neon mixed in—something I've been gravitating towards.

Cynthia Rowley dress c/o Amazon Fashion, Jennifer Fisher cuffs and ring,

Aldo shoes (similar).

images by jacqueline pilar

Spring Pants

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 09 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

I've been in search of the perfect spring pant and finally found this pair by Rachel Zoe that stole my heart. Not only are the colors spot on for the season but who can deny a dainty stripe? Not me! And for the record, slouchy trousers are incredibly versatile—a quick shoe change can dress them up or a basic cotton tee can give an easy daytime look.

Rachel Zoe Mona pants, StyleMint top, BaubleBar monogram necklace, Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Aldo heels (similar), Garrett Leight sunglasses.

Currently around my neck, this mini monogram necklace from Baublebar.

images by jacqueline pilar

Sunshine Mama

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

In honor of my sweet mom, I decided to do a round up of some finds in her favorite color (bright citrus). Besides this color looking amazing on her, it's also a direct reflection of her personality—happy and bright. This weekend I'm looking forward to celebrating her on Mother's Day and wearing her favorite color.

Clockwise from top left:

Otte Binding Tank

Etnia Barcelona Sunglasses

Kenzo Tiger Print Bag

Norma Kamali Swimsuit

Sensi Studio Panama Hat

Citizens of Humanity Shorts

Lauren Merkin Clutch

Miu Miu Pumps

Equipment Signature Shirt

Petal Pushing {At Home}

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:18:00 +0000

{ Hydrangeas in a vase stacked on books and a pop of color. }

Every year when Spring rolls around I get the itch to constantly fill the house with fun flower arrangements. There's just something about warm weather that begs for some pretty petals to brighten a space. Lately I've been completely inspired by findings on pinterest (check out my "blooms" board here) and as of late have been experimenting with different objects from the kitchen, fun color combinations and colorful books, china and paintings to tie in a vignette. Here are some favorites I've been looking to.

{ Bougainvillea, my recent obsession thanks to Heidi Merrick—image from her home. I love the bright color and thin petals of this plant. }

{ A colorful tea pot acts as the perfect vase. }

{ A wooden box to hold mason jars of Peonies and Anemones. }

{ Brass vases with minimal leafy greenery. }

all images found via pinterest.

Plaid Necessity

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Mon, 06 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Typically plaids are a must-have for Fall, but in my wardrobe they get the most play during the Summer months. When the sun goes down and you get those post beach chills, nothing is better to have on hand than a thin layer—enter a flannel. They're cozy, work right into a camping ensemble and can still be dressed up with tailored shorts or jeans. So don't store away those cozy patterns!

10 Corso top, Alexandre Birman c/o Bonfaire, Zara shorts, Givenchy necklace, Jennifer Fisher gypsy finger ring and cuffs, Garrett Leight sunglasses.

images by michael dumler

More flannel finds...

Africa Bound

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Fri, 03 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

As promised I'll be sharing our final decision on a honeymoon destination today and so here it is—Africa and Seychelles here we come! From the beginning I fell in love with the thought of an African safari. There's something utterly romantic and exhilarating about the whole idea but flopping on an island somewhere was always in my head as well. This way we're getting a little of everything, plus I'm taking some advice someone passed along—take as much time as you can. I can't wait to share the whole experience in just three months.

Nieves Lavi dress, Jennifer Fisher bar cuff and other brass cuffs, Doma leather jacket, Express shoes, Celine bag, Raen sunglasses.

Throwback Thursday {Wind Swept}

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 02 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

During my Coachella adventure (see other posts here and here) I met up with the utterly cool Bridget Fleming and we snapped some shots just as the wind storm rolled in. A little throwback thursday fun! Hope it's getting warm and sunny where you are!

Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Candela dress, Joie moccasins, Garret Leight sunnglasses.

Images by Bridget Fleming

The Honeymoon (Option #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 02 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Our second honeymoon destination recommended by World Odyssey was a spot I've always dreamed about visiting—Bali. Our dates of travel land on the perfect time of year (weather wise) to visit Indonesia, making this honeymoon option a major contender. Visits to paddy fields, the Ubud Royal Palace, the Taman Ayun Temple and monkey sightings at the sacred Monkey Forest sound adventurous and unforgettable. Plus, I've heard amazing things about two hotels we would be visiting Amankila and Amandari in Ubud.

So, which honeymoon would you pick? We made our decision and I can't wait to share it tomorrow! For more travel inspiration, I highly suggest checking out World Odyssey and considering them for your next trip—just the planning alone is ten times easier and incredibly specialized!

The Honeymoon

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Wed, 01 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Choosing a honeymoon destination has been one of my favorite parts of the wedding planning process. Fantasizing about all the places we could go to was beyond fun but also daunting—especially when it comes to far away countries and picking a place with optimal weather. A friend introduced us to World Odyssey, which is a luxury travel service that specializes in tailor-made trips that come along with copious amounts of knowledge for well planned adventures. Together with World Odyssey we narrowed down our very long list to two amazing honeymoon options based on the time of year, resorts and things to experience. We have made our decision (squeal!) but I'm curious to hear which one you would all pick. So here's the first option... a safari in South Africa followed by some time spent in the Seychelles just off of Kenya. Option two coming up tomorrow!

First stop: Four nights at the Chitwa Chitwa lodge for an African Safari. I've always dreamed about experiencing something like this with my guy and the grounds look utterly romantic. Not to mention the high amounts of game viewing since this lodge is right next to a watering hole. Then, it's off to the Seychelles.

Second stop: The Four Seasons Seychelles which hangs over the water (pinch me!) followed by a week at Denis Island—an amazing recommendation from World Odyssey.

Our second destination coming up tomorrow!

Spring {Potato} Salad

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

When the days heat up, nothing is worse than being stuck in the kitchen when you're entertaining friends at home. Which is why I'm a huge advocate for dishes that are a.) easy and b.) can be prepared ahead of time. And since potato salad is always a favorite for Spring and Summer days I decided to try out a recipe from this cookbook that my mom gave me. The verdict: ridiculously good. Plus I threw in some chicken with the leftovers and had it for dinner.

Sidenote: lately I've been obsessed with bread boards. Rustic and functional? I want more.

My favorite bread board finds have been on Etsy—check out my profile here where I've compiled a handful of them. Round, light, dark, small... could i have that?

Scream for Ice Cream {Plus a Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Some days (like yesterday) call for a spontaneous ice cream run. The famous McConnell's creamery is dangerously close to our house and has (in my opinion) the best mint chip known to man. Aside from a sugary indulgence, my weekend consisted of hitting up the Santa Monica Vintage Expo (more to come on my amazing finds!), the first fitting for my wedding dress and catching up with my mom. I practically lived in this tee all weekend long paired with a new Marit Rae necklace I found at Therapy in Pasadena. Since I'm such a fan, Therapy will be giving one of you lucky readers your very own. Be sure to like their facebook page and leave a comment below with your name and email. Ends 5/6 12 pm pst.

Joie top, Rich & Skinny jeans, Alexandre Birman heels c/o Bonfaire, Celine bag, Marit Rae necklace.

Sidenote: I'm completely obsessed with these heels that I picked up from Bonfaire—be sure to check out the site, there are tons of great finds. Click here and get a $100 credit.

images by jacqueline pilar

Bits and Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

{ Who says a creamer needs to stay in the kitchen? I love this little cow so much it's currently wearing some of my gems. }

The past few weeks have been non stop allowing little down time at home. I finally had a chance the other day to catch up on laundry, open a few wedding presents, read a stack of magazines that have been piling up and rearrange a few things. I don't know about all of you, but I'm ready for the weekend!

{ Flats from ShoeMint that I've been living in. Check out a striped version I'm coveting here. }

{ Chunky rings from La Petite Princesse displayed in an antique saucer. }

{ A vintage letter holder displaying invites for some upcoming parties—the coaster up front made by my sister of Bungalow36. }

{ A perfect lounging spot at a recent luncheon—blankets from here. }

{ Fresh strawberries from the farmer's market. }

{ A collection of tiny bottles I scored at a sale that are perfect single flowers. }

White and Wild

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Tomorrow I'm headed south to Pasadena to host an event along with Citizens of Humanity at Therapy, one of my favorite boutiques in the area. For the upcoming party I was given this pair of coated jeans by Citizens of Humanity, and I've been completely obsessed with them since. They look just like leather but are incredibly soft, flexible and breath better. Be sure to stop by Therapy to shop the rest of the Fall 13 preview and don't forget to bring a pair of jeans to donate. See you tomorrow from 5 - 8 pm!

Citizens of Humanity jeans, Express shirt, Bonfaire heels, Ted Baker blazer,

Celine all soft bag, Raen sunglasses.

Sidenote: Express has some great finds right now. I've been loving this graphic leopard tee with metallic accents. Check out more of their tees here.

Duff's Cakemix

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Fact: I have an out of control sweet tooth. So when Flutter Magazine invited me and some friends (Shauna and Sydne) to Duff's Cakemix in West Hollywood I gladly accepted. This sweet spot is a cake decorating studio filled with every tool, sprinkle, frosting and sugar topping you could ask for, plus a handful of pros to teach you a few tricks and tips. Oh and don't worry about the baking part, you can choose from a 6" pre baked cake or 8 cupcakes to create your masterpiece on.

What I wore: Ann Sui dress, IRO booties, Celine bag, Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Doma leather jacket (similar).

I went with a hot pink glittery covered cake with my new initial come July!

Check out the rest of our cake date at Duff's in the new issue of Flutter here and read more about my upcoming wedding.

images by jacqueline pilar

Sunday Lounging

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

The weather couldn't have been more perfect these past few days. Yesterday we threw open all the doors, did some gardening and soaked in some much needed sunshine in our backyard. A loose knit sweater, cut off shorts and comfortable shoes was my uniform throughout the entirety of the weekend. I picked up these sandals from Nisolo and can already tell they're going to be a spring favorite—the more I wear them, the more comfortable they get. Plus they're handmade by shoemakers in Peru, read more about the cause here.

Michael Stars sweater, Paige Denim shorts, Nisolo sandals, Jennifer Fisher cuffs,

Garrett Leight sunglasses, vintage necklace.

Be a Good Citizen with Could I Have That

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:48:00 +0000

When I look at my datebook to the weeks ahead, it's a bit overwhelming but chocked full of exciting things. First up, my best friend's wedding this weekend and following that, an event I'll be co-hosting with Citizens of Humanity at one of my favorite boutiques in Pasadena called Therapy. Join me at Therapy on Holly street, Thursday April 25th from 5 pm - 8 pm to shop, sip some bubbly and give back to an amazing cause by bringing in an old pair of jeans to donate. Cotton. From Blue to Green™ is a green movement that recycles old denim putting it to new use as insulation for communities in need. Plus shop the new Fall 2013 collection from Citizens of Humanity and see which ones are my favorite. Hope to see you there next week!

Shoshanna Maxi dress, Raen sunglasses, Givenchy shark tooth necklace, vintage collar necklace and cuff, Celine pouch.

I hope to meet you there! xo

The Pick

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 08:00:00 +0000

You may have caught my post (seen here) last week about searching for the perfect bridal shower dress and today I'm revealing the winning number. I fell head over heels for this Ruffian dress mostly because it's incredibly comfortable but I also couldn't resist the cascading back of accordion pleats. Finding the perfect dress for an occasion is never easy but with the help of Styloot I was able to search tons of websites and designers in one place and by color, category and price. I highly suggest giving Styloot a whirl and be sure to test out the "Create My Look" tool which allows you to search and save your findings in one place and create outfits on a virtual mannequin, pretty cool right?

Ruffian dress, Emily Rosendahl Sam clutch, Jennifer Fisher cuffs and charm necklace, Coach heels, Garrett Leight sunglasses.

Be sure to check out my bridal shower Styloot board here for more inspo.

images by jacqueline pilar

Coachella Day Three

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha Hutchinson) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 04:58:00 +0000

As I mentioned before this tank was one of the first things I threw in my bag for Coachella. Knowing that the temps would be more than toasty, a loose and breezy top was the next thing to a ticket a girl would need. I couldn't resist wearing it with a pair of classic cut-off denim shorts to complete a perfect music festival look.

Joie tank and boots, Paige denim shorts, Jennifer Fisher cuffs, Stelle x Rebecca Minkoff clutch, J.Crew hat, Ariel Gordon rings, Garrett Leight sunglasses.

Some snaps from my Coachella weekend...

Clockwise from top left:

Joie Moccasins I lived in during the day; watching Yeasayer perform; at the festival wearing a flowy dress and boots from Joie; with my pal Liz.

photos above by Michael Dumler