Loafing Odysseys

SPRINGTIME DENIM

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 12:01:00 +0000

I am so obsessed with this look! I need to get a denim jacket and skirt for 2014.

EDAW 2014

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 13:55:00 +0000

It's Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Everybody knows someone.

Eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes. You can't necessarily look at someone and know that they have an eating disorder.

Eating disorders cause a lot of heartache for those who have them and for their families, which is why I'm posting the song above.

#EDAW2014 is something near and dear to my heart, as an ED affected/is affecting someone I deeply care about.

Be aware of the messages you are sending, especially around youth.

For more information about Eating Disorders Awareness Week, resources for dealing with an ED, and how to get involved, visit the NEDA website or check out the stories and resources being posted on twitter.

Be happy, be healthy, be you. I know it sounds cheesy, but it's true. Please spread the word.

++ positive vibes ++

♥

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 13:55:00 +0000

Happy Valentine's Day, sweet readers!

Golden Years

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 14:38:00 +0000

Add a touch of gilded glamour to your day with these cute office supplies from Rifle Paper Co! I'm getting my Master's degree in May, so I'm on the hunt for adorable accents for my future cubicle.

iphone 5 case, tiger card, gold twine, marking clips, ipad case, gilded notebooks

What are your favorite stores for office supplies and paper goods?

Cross Training with Ballet Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Even though I never really took ballet classes growing up, I've always admired the grace and poise of ballerinas. I love the beautiful clothes and the soft, delicate movements. My little sister used to do ballet and I always felt so proud watching her dance.

After running my first half marathon, I decided I needed to add more cross training into my workout routines. The training plan that I followed did not include any, and even though I've always known the importance of it, I left it out. When it comes to sports, I pretty much only enjoy running. I don't like going to the gym and the idea of group classes really intimidates me, so I really had no motivation to find an activity different from running until I heard about Ballet Beautiful.

Mary Helen Bowers

Ballet Beautiful is a workout developed by professional ballerina, Mary Helen Bowers, and it's unlike any workout tape you'll probably ever try. In case you haven't heard of Bowers, she is the ballerina who trained Natalie Portman for her role in Black Swan. The soft white lighting and classical music make it a relaxing experience, and even though Bowers talks in a calming voice instead of yelling at you like the traditional workout tapes, her workout is pretty difficult (at least it is in my opinion). There are several versions of Ballet Beautiful that you can try, but I've been doing the Total Body Workout and I'm loving it. I have the worst hand-eye coordination of anyone I know, but the workout makes me feel more graceful each time, which I really enjoy.

Mostly, I really love this workout because it's a lot of fun and it's doing a great job of strengthening my hips, which I really to be strong for distance running.

Other famous patrons of Ballet Beautiful include Alexa Chung and Victoria's Secret Angel Miranda Kerr, pictured above.

You can buy the videos from itunes or Amazon for a pretty low-price, or you can see a sneak peak of the DVDs below!

Finally, here's a little outfit I threw together for a Ballet Beautiful workout!

Ballet Beautiful DVDs, Athleta Shimmer Top, Ballet Beautiful Knit Shorts, Ban.do Bobbi Pins, Catbird NYC Ballerina Bracelet, Rodin Lip Balm, Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers, Ballasox in Nude, Catbird NYC Shimmer Pouch, Leg Warmers, Catbird NYC Swan Tote

For more ballet inspiration and images sources, check out my ballet board on Pinterest.

Run Happy

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 12:00:00 +0000

My happy place is by the water. Nothing motivates me to go out for my runs like the thought of being out on the harbor.

I hope to be running with a dog of my own someday soon, but more on that later.

Where do you like to exercise?

Celebrating the New Brooks Transcend

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Sun, 02 Feb 2014 18:56:00 +0000

I am so excited to try the new Brooks Transcends! I just ordered a pair today, since I'm due for new running shoes. This is my first time ordering running shoes online, but I've purchased from my neighborhood running store enough times to know that Brooks will always be the right shoe for me. If you aren't sure what shoes is right for your training regimen, definitely get fitted at your local running store.

Brooks Transcend, Brooks Run Happy Hat, Brooks Sports Bra, FitBit Zip, Alex and Ani Champion Bracelet, Road ID, Lululemon Yoga Mat, Thorlos Socks (THE BEST running socks), Lululemon x SIGG water bottle

The Transcends are supposed to provide the ultimate comfort in running shoes while giving you enough support to go for miles (check out the Runner's World review here). I used to get injured all of the time while training for distance races, but since I made the switch to a decent pair of running shoes (I've tried both Brooks and Mizunas and I love them) I've been injury free. Stretching more often also helps, but a good pair of shoes certainly has made a world of difference. To celebrate the launch of the new shoe, I've thrown together a running outfit inspired by the Transcends. When it comes to running, I love bright colors, so I was really excited to see that the Transcends come in a flaming hot pink in addition to a more traditional blue/white colorway.

Have you tried the Transcends? How do you like them? I'm really excited to hear about your experience with these shoes!

Green Monster Salad Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 17:03:00 +0000

I've been really inspired by the nourish bowls over at Nutrition Stripped and whipped up this salad the other day. I'm simply addicted, so I thought I'd share. I've been very into cooking lately, especially vegan cooking, so if you have any favorite blogs I'd love to hear about them! I tend to get a little down in the winter, but I've found that eating healthy every day keeps me in good spirits.

Ingredients:
4 leaves romaine lettuce
1/3 granny smith apple
1/2 avocado
1 tbsp hulled hemp seeds
1 tbsp pepitas
1/3 cucumber
1/6 firm tofu block
handful of sprouts
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp liquid aminos, tamari, or soy sauce
black pepper to taste

I hope you enjoy! What is your favorite salad recipe?

French Lessons from Madewell

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 18:52:00 +0000

It's no secret among my friends that Madewell is my favorite clothing store. For whatever reason, I rarely shop anywhere else. The store continues to draw me in with its perfect denim, beautiful plaid shirts, and effortless looks. I love that some of their denim pieces stay in season all year round so that when they release their new lookbooks, I already own part of the outfit.

During the fall, I couldn't get enough of their photoshoot with Caroline de Maigret. ...and now, they are luring me back in with even more French styling tips. My favorite looks are included below, but you can see the whole set here. While you're scrolling, why not throw on some music? Madewell has all of their playlists on Rdio.

What are your favorite looks? Where do you do most of your shopping?

(Given that stores sometimes ask bloggers to promote them, I want you to know that this is not a sponsored post. I am just really obsessed with Madewell. If I ever decide to write a sponsored post, I will let you know.)

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 02:22:00 +0000

I've been on a bit of a post-Thanksgiving health kick, so I've been downing smoothies left and right to get that extra nutritional boost. A smoothie is also the perfect recovery drink after an intense workout. The recipe for this smoothie has been adapted from one I found over at Lululemon.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup almond milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 banana
a few dashes of pumpkin pie spice
a handful of chopped dates

Optional:
1/2 tsp maca powder
1/2 tsp chia seeds

Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender and puree. Enjoy!

My favorite way to find smoothie recipes is to browse pinterest, although I'm also pretty obsessed with Summer Sanders' instagram right now -- so many delicious and healthy looking smoothies.

What are your favorite smoothie recipes?

Gift Guide #1: A Little Luxury

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 07:18:00 +0000

Sometimes you just need a little luxury. Here's a few fancy things that would make great gifts (or treats for yourself!). I'm really into beige, gold, and white right now.

Champagne Truffles, Charbonnel & Walker
Do or Die notepad, Rifle Paper Co.
Medium Dot Pouch, Rennes Shop
Embellished bobby pins, Ban.do
Inflorescene perfume, Byredo

Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (lauren) — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 06:25:00 +0000

My idea of a perfect weekend. Staying home and getting cozy. Take a long bath, throw on some pajamas, give yourself a manicure, pop some popcorn, light a candle, read a book, put a record on, catch up on work from home.

I deleted my previous post because I just couldn't give up this little blog. I'm back. I'm not sure how frequently I'll be updating but I'm here to stay. Thanks for reading!

Mixtapes

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:52:00 +0000

For more, visit me on 8tracks!

Mara Caffarone

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 22:24:00 +0000

Paintings by Mara Caffarone via Little Paper Planes. These particular pieces remind me a lot of Cy Twombly's paintings.

Help Japan

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:59:00 +0000

You Have Been Here Sometime discusses three ways you can help Japan. You can also donate by visiting the Red Cross website.

The Perfect Kitchen.: Montse Esteva's House in Barcelona

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:29:00 +0000

(via Kikette Interiors)

I Wanna Be a Chloe Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:13:00 +0000

Love the simplicity of the Spring 2011 campaign via Fashion Gone Rouge.

Sofia Coppola in Paris

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 02:56:00 +0000

NYT 2009 tour of Paris with Sofia Coppola via RDuJour.

Sorry for the lack of updates lately -- I hope everyone is well! By the way, Loafing Odysseys is now on Facebook, if you want to check it out. I'll be posting links to new content as well as links to other things I find interesting.

Also, unrelated -- but what's everyone listening to lately? I can't get enough of the new Tennis record. Definitely have a listen.

Fringe Alchemy Soap

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 16:44:00 +0000

Fringe Alchemy Soap via Lovely Package.

Honey, Honey, Food for the Bees

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:38:00 +0000

The flowers are getting your breakfast ready.

Images via so much to tell you, linneamaria/encoreuneminute, chaispice, and tonyme.

Miss Dior Cherie

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 08:00:00 +0000

Photos from Sofia Coppola's 2008 commercial for Miss Dior Cherie. Brigitte Bardot on the radio, a pretty dress, crazy yellow sunglasses, a bike, and a pastry shop. My former college roomie and I used to watch this over and over, so it's nice to have finally stumbled across the stills from the video.

Photos from Life With Sofia via The Beauty File.

Annie Monroe

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:21:00 +0000

I am girl crushing on every single member of The Like. I can't get enough of their sixties vibes and flawless mod looks. ...and if that's not enough for you, they make awesome music. Above are a few photos of Annie Monroe, the band's organ player and singer. She really does look like she hopped out of a Godard film, doesn't she?

(via so much to tell you)

Chloé Spring 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 19:51:00 +0000

Chloé, Spring 2011 RTW

I love how the Chloé collection always looks so sweet and feminine, but remains unfussy and tailored.

Polyvore.

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 01:50:00 +0000

I'm pretty addicted to Polyvore at the moment, so I made several sets inspired by some of my favorite fashion icons. Also, since most of these lovely ladies are French, enjoy this background music by Françoise Hardy.

Who are your favorite fashion icons and why? Also, if you're on Polyvore, holler at me and I'll follow.

Zooey D for Oliver Peoples

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Catch A Tuesday from Oliver Peoples on Vimeo.
I just got Oliver Peoples glasses. This makes me so happy I cannot deal.