POST GRAD IN PUMPS

SPLURGE SPEND SAVE: BON BON EARRINGS

2017-05-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've had my eye on the Rebecca de Ravenel Les Bon Bon earrings for awhile, buuuuut the price is just mind boggling. Luckily, I have found several options that are much easier on the wallet.

SPLURGE: Rebecca De Ravenel $295
SPEND: Baublebar $48
SAVE: Etsy $18

More favorites below!

FRIDAY LINKS

2017-04-14T22:24:00.001-07:00

Have you seen this article making the rounds? It really resonated with me.
Man Repeller had so many good articles this week, including this one. I 100% support dressing for an occasion and just going for it.
Ugh, I love Radiohead. If you don't, read this now.
I loved reading this Racked interview with the Girls costume director.
This bag is a Spring/Summer necessity.
If you read any fitness articles, the emphasis on protein is a little overwhelming. The NYT took a good look at how much protein you actually need.
I snagged this skirt (also comes in a cute stripe for summer) and this bracelet (in 2 colors!) at Madewell during the 30% off sale. Um, I may have also snagged this top at Urban...
I'm headed to Austin next month, so I bookmarked this guide as soon as I saw it. Goop never steers me wrong!

MUSIC MONDAY: KAHLID "AMERICAN TEEN"

2017-03-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

I recently came across Khalid on Spotify, and I was absolutely blown away. Think of a soulful, R&B, rapping Chet Faker, and you have Khalid. I was immediately nodding my head along with "8TEEN", and soon after I was playing his entire album on repeat.

He's only 19 and "American Teen" is his debut album. I really can't comprehend the level of talent that he possesses, and I have been sharing his music with everyone I talk to. I love the playful references to social media and how he really encapsulates what it feels like to be, well, an American Teen. Take a listen below, you will love it.

If you are in SF, he is doing an album signing at Amoeba on Tuesday, March 7. 6pm!

FRIDAY LINKS

2017-01-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

In honor of all the marches this weekend, we have a very feminine themed Friday links ahead. Have a very happy and safe weekend xx.

Still need a poster for the Women's March? Here are 33 you can download for free.
When you think of challenges that homeless women face, the first things that come to mind are likely hunger and safety. This video opened my eyes to how much of a health and dignity issue menstruating can be for homeless women. Distributing Dignity is an organization that distributes bras and feminine hygiene products to women in need. Learn more and donate here!
I want to send this card to all my ladies.
A favorite NYT article on the the importance of friendship between women.
I bought this book for my nieces, it's amazing. This one looks similar and might join their bookshelf soon.
Love this Girl Power shirt and this boob shirt!

LIFE LATELY

2017-01-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Listening to the La La Land soundtrack and Khalid "American Teen", on repeat.
Wearing Girlfriend Collective leggings. This company decided to forgo traditional marketing and give out leggings for the cost of shipping ($20) and rely on word of mouth and social media. To be honest, I thought this was a scam or the leggings would be bad quality, but I gave it a shot and figured it was just $20. But my expectations were beyond succeeded. The leggings are SO comfortable, really flattering, and excellent quality. I have been recommending them left and right, and everyone who also purchased them agrees. Best purchase of 2016!
Doing long runs. I hadn't been running as often since it has been getting dark earlier, but I'm trying to get back into running and I just hit the threshold of it being enjoyable again. I ran 8 miles this week, which has been my longest in awhile! ^^ photo above from my run.
Watching This Is Us. I binged through it over Christmas and can't wait for the new season to start. It's such a beautiful show, but I ugly cry every single episode.
Reading Persepolis and When Breath Becomes Air. Longer post to come, but they are both important and beautiful reads.
Eating Imperfect Produce! It is a produce delivery company that sells "ugly" fruits and vegetables that don't get sold in grocery stores, simply because the appearance. Buying the uglies cuts down on food waste and helps support local farmers. It's an awesome service and available in San Francisco and soon LA.
Applying Glossier Boy Brow. Oh my god. I was nervous to try any of their products since I couldn't see them in person or test them. But Boy Brow really lives up to the hype, I am obsessed. The Concealer and Generation G are also fantastic, and affordable.
Resolving to travel more, save more money, floss more, and support my friends in their passion projects.
Going to a few places! 2017 seems to be my year of travel, with quite a few trips already lined up. Sonoma, Santa Barbara, Austin, Mexico and LA are already on the calendar. Send me recommendations!

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-08-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Before I get into any links, I wanted to bring attention to the most important weekend link. If you have anything to give, please consider giving to the Red Cross to help people affected by the Louisiana Floods. This is the worst natural disaster in the US since Hurricane Sandy.

Click here to donate.

Last weekend at Poco Dolce

POSTGRAD LIKES: POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX - JULY FAVORITES

2016-08-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

This month, POPSUGAR sent me a Must Have Box to try out some new products. I love getting the Must Have Box, it's always full of awesome product that is useful and fun. Here are my favorites for July.

1. Pintrill, Pineapple Pin $12 -- Pins have really been making a comeback and I'm so happy about it. I loved this little pineapple pin to add to my denim jacket for a fun touch.

2. Sunny Life, Swan Drink Floatie $18 -- I loved this floating swan drink holder, can't wait to bring it on a bachelorette party next month!

3. Michael Stars, Porcelain Skinny Scarf $30 -- This skinny scarf from Michael Stars is perfect to tie on a bag or bandana-style around my neck. The black and white print is perfectly neutral.

4. European Wax Center, Brow Highlighter $18 -- I had never tried any European Wax Center products until this arrived in my box, and it's amazing! It's a nice champagne color, so it is not too white, and blends really nicely. I also use it in the inner corners of my eyes and on my cheek bones. A+.

5. House of Pom, Emojii Cocktail Napkins $25 -- These napkins just make me happy. They are featured front and center on my bar cart right now.

If you want to try out POPSUGAR's Must Have Box, use code 'SHOP5' for $5 off your first box!

POPSUGAR sent the Must Have Box in exchange for review. All opinions are my own.

LUST/MUST

2016-08-14T22:20:00.001-07:00

LUST:
Top, Free People
Sunglasses, Toms
Slides, Vince

MUST
Top, Forever21
Sunglasses, B.P.
Slides, Zara

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-07-01T18:15:00.001-07:00

Image via www.shopplanetblue.com

POSTGRAD LIKES: POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX

2016-06-30T21:57:00.001-07:00

I have a love/hate relationship with subscription boxes. I have tried several and they have been very hit or miss. POPSUGAR sent me a Must Have Box for review and I was game to review it, as I had heard it was an awesome subscription service and was interested in trying it out.

When the box arrived, it was like a mini christmas. It was so fun to find great products inside. It didn't feel underwhelming, or as though the box had a lot of filler items.

What the box included:

-- Hat Attack Neutral Diamonds-Printed Sarong

-- Sisters of Los Angeles "Cheers" Gold Bottle Opener

-- Wild and Wolf Ridley's Games Room "Who Am I?" Quiz

-- NCLA Born on the 4th Nail Lacquer

-- Knock Knock Are You Ready (For Your Close-Up?) Compact

-- Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes

-- Pressels Sriracha

I like the Must Have Box better than other subscription box services I have tried because the items are full sized (not samples) and it's a variety of products. Plus, the value is amazing -- over $120 worth of products for $39.99.

My favorite items are the bottle opener, sarong, and party game. I think I am going to get a lot of use out of all three -- especially over the long holiday weekend! The deodorant wipes have also been great to keep in my gym bag.

If you want to get a #MustHaveBox, follow this link and sign up for next month's!

POPSUGAR sent the Must Have Box in exchange for review. All opinions are my own.

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-06-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

How to make potatoes when the world is out of your control. Loved this short piece. Coincidentally, potatoes are also my favorite food.
24 Things women over 30 should wear. Wholeheartedly agree with this whole list.
Ever wonder why La Croix seems to have come out of left field? This article explains it's history and rise to popularity. Also, it's pronounced "La Croy", whaaaat.
A must read guide to how to save money during wedding season.
If you haven't already seen this video of Anna Wintour and Amy Schumer changing places, stop what you are doing and watch now.

LUST/MUST

2016-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

LUST:

Dress, Caroline Costas $495

Clutch, Kayu Designs $185

Heels, Loeffler Randall $210

MUST:

Dress, Zara $34

Clutch, Mango $20

Heels, Sole Society $75

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-05-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

Finally, it's time to kick off summer! I am sticking around the city for the weekend, and crossing my fingers for warm weather. Annnnddd doing lots of shopping. One thing I love about holidays is there is a guarantee of sales all around. Below the Friday links, I have a running list of Memorial Day sales, and I'll add to it as the weekend goes on.

Happy weekend and Memorial Day! xx

MEMORIAL DAY SALES!

Clothing

Anthropologie - 30% off sale items

ASOS - 20% off full price clothing
Azalea - 20% off orders over $150 with code "150for20"

Banana Republic - 40% off your purchase with code "BRTAKE40"
Barney's - 40% off select styles

Candy Shop Vintage - 20% off with code "SUMMERHOLIDAY"
Draper James - 50% off select items
Everything But Water Extra 50% off sale, 30% off select desginers

Free People - Extra 25% off sale

Gap - 40% off your purchase with code "HAPPY"
J. Crew - 30% off everything

J. Crew Factory - 50% off sitewide and extra 40% off clearance with code EXTRA40

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale

Loeffler Randall - 30% off select styles and free shipping

Lo & Sons - 30% off

Madewell 20% off sale with code "META20"

Margaret Elizabeth - Select jewelry on sale

NastyGal - Extra 40% off sale

OAK - 30% off storewide
Pour La Victoire - 50% off sitewide with code "MEMORIAL50"

Sam Edelman - 30% off sitewide with code "VIPSUMMER"

Home

20x200 - 25% off black and white collection and custom framing with code "ZEBRA"

FrameBridge - 15% off all white frame orders with code "WHITENOT"

Rugs USA - additional 20% off select styles

West Elm - Buy More Save More up to 25% off

Other

Book of the Month Club 50% off a 3-month membership

INSTAGRAMS TO FOLLOW

2016-05-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's pretty evident that at this point, Instagram is here to stay. For me, it's my favorite social media to browse for inspiration and I am finding fantastic new accounts daily. I wanted to share a few of my favorites as of late.

@milkandpancakes

Italy is maybe my favorite place in the entire world, so I love following this account to see peeks of Rome. Plus, I really miss the food and coffee so I can live vicariously through this account!

@TheAcademyNewYork

This account posts three successive photos that are all related in someway or another. It's very creative, aesthetically inspiring, and often times hilarious. Probably the most unique and interesting account I follow.

@TasteofStreep

This one is just for the laughs. I really want to know how this idea come about. I literally laugh out loud every time this account pops up in my newsfeed. And I love Meryl!

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last night I went on a lady date with my best friend to see the new SF MOMA. When it first closed for renovations, I remember thinking that three years was going to be forever, and wondering if I would even still live in SF when it reopened. Well, it's reopen and I'm still here! The new space is absolutely amazing, and so much bigger than the previous space. It's by far my favorite museum in the city. I highly, highly suggest a visit if you get the chance. And don't miss Clyfford Still.

Have a good weekend xx.

Via my Instagram

POSTGRAD FINANCE: THREE WAYS TO SPEND LESS MONEY

2016-05-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Between all the apps and online shopping we have access to, it can be easy to wonder where your money disappears each month. I have been making a conscious effort to be more savvy with my spending, and I wanted to share three easy ways to cutback on mindless spending.

Image via Dagne Dover

1. Unsubscribe From Promo Emails -- My mom is a wise (and financially savvy) lady, and she once told me "There will always be another sale". Those words really stuck with me, especially when I see stores having promos more and more often. If you are buying something you truly need or want, another sale will come around. If you are on a budget, unsubscribe from emails from stores you shop in. When you don't get the email announcing a 24 hour flash sale or 30% off this weekend, you won't get sucked in to buying things you don't need.

2. Stop Ordering Delivery -- On lazy days, especially Sundays, it's so easy to just tap your phone a few times and have food delivered through one of the hundreds of delivery apps available. It easily turns in to a habit. However, with delivery fees and tips, it can easily double the price of a meal. Instead, stock up on some healthy, frozen meals to eat in case of emergency.

3. Cancel Recurring or Subscription Services -- When you set up a service with recurring payments, it's easy to just forget about the cost. Really think about if you use services like Netflix or Spotify, and if you can live with out them. Also look into which ones you can share with a friend or significant other (like Netflix!). In terms of subscriptions, do you really need bacon of the month club? or new athleisure every weekend? Really weigh if it is cost effective, necessary, or brings you joy. I quit Fabletics and Netflix, but I stayed subscribed to Book of the Month because it fits those parameters.

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-05-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've been on a real cooking kick lately and recently picked up Gwenyth's new cookbook It's All Easy. I spent a good chunk of time flipping through it and marking the recipes that I wanted to make. My feelings on it are pretty 50/50, maybe more like 70/30, in that the cookbook has some recipes that are simple, unique, and look wonderful. But then there is also recipes for avocado toast and grilled cheese with tomato soup. I think if a few recipes had been edited out, the cookbook would be stellar. Anywho, I'm excited to get in the kitchen this weekend with a couple of the recipes!

image via

LUST/MUST

2016-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

LUST:

Dress, Persifor $220

Top, Tory Burch $195

Slides, Stuart Weitzman $345

MUST:

Dress, TOPSHOP $60

Top, Forever 21 $19

Slides, Ann Taylor $98 (40% off your purchase right now!)

POSTGRAD LOVES: BOOK OF THE MONTH CLUB

2016-05-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

Recently, a Facebook ad caught my eye (finally, good for something!), advertising a book subscription service, plus a discount code to boot. The gist of Book of the Month Club (BOTM), is that each month they have a curated list of 5 books, give you a brief synopsis of each, and you choose which one you want mailed to you. The cost of the service includes shipping, so there is no extra fee after you pay for your subscription (unless you want more than one book from that month's selections -- you can order extra at $10 a piece).

I like this model because it still gives you a choice in what to read. Honestly, I get really lost on Amazon and end up with such a long list of books that I don't buy any. BOTM gives a nice variety of books and honestly I've had a hard time choosing just one.

When my first book, The Nest, arrived, I was so happy to see the book was a beautiful hardcover copy, well worth the money! The April Guest judge was Ellie Kemper (love her!!), and I chose her selection so I got that sweet I <3 Ellie sticker too. Loved the book by the way... keep an eye out for a review coming up!

The current pricing is:
1- Month plan for $16.99
3-Month plan for $44.97 ($14.99 per book)
12-Month plan for $143.88 (11.99 per book)
You can also always skip a month at no additional charge if you don't like any of the selections.

Also, if you want to sign up, they are running a promo for the month of May, use code MAY30 to get 30% off of a 3 month subscription! You can sign up here: Book of the Month Club.

SAN FRANCISCO: GOOP MRKT

2016-05-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

When I heard Goop was popping up shop on Maiden Lane this month, I knew I had to stop by.

140 Maiden Lane is inconspicuous from the outside, but the inside is absolutely breath taking. It was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright (huge fan over here!), and is a bright space with mid century modern details, plus an absolutely stunning staircase. If the staircase looks familiar, that's because it was inspired by the famed staircase at the Guggenheim in New York. The American Institute of Architecture actually named the space one of Wright's 17 essential works.

Steven Volpe was brought in to do the decor, while Flora Grubb Gardens installed all the greenery. It all came together in a way that felt modern, while paying homage to Wright and his vision.

The products in the pop-up were as expected: Beautiful, luxurious, and outrageously expensive. There were gaggles of women trying face creams, others ooohing and ahhing over the full kitchen set up, and a few gently flipping through racks of luxury yoga wear.

I was in awe of the entire thing.

I really wanted to take a home a souvenir and I had my eye on a copy of "It's All Easy". I wanted to take a piece of the store home with me, but a quick Amazon search showed Gwyneth's latest cookbook at 40% off, so you know I hit that 1-click order and walked out empty handed.

Goop MRKT is open through May 22nd.

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-05-06T23:42:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey! Happy Friday! We made it to the weekend. I originally had a low key weekend planned with a lot of solo time and planned on getting a bunch of errands and spring cleaning done. Somehow, I managed to fill up my weekend with a few things like roller disco, visiting the Goop pop-up, and lunch at Lemonade (!!!!!). So, while a GSD weekend would have probably been good for me, my current plans sound much, much more fun.

Have a great weekend xx.

5 PODCASTS YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO

2016-05-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

I am a regular podcast listener while I am working and commuting, so I wanted to share my 5 favorites. I prefer highly edited and produced podcasts that focus on storytelling, so if that's up your alley than give these ones a try!

1. Monocycle by ManRepeller -- Man Repeller was the first blog I ever read (I think in 2010..?) and followed religiously. I loved Leandra's quirky style, and her hilarious and insightful writing. It's been pretty incredible to see the evolution of the site and see Leandra become a force in the fashion world. I recently started listening to her podcast, Monocycle, and I ran through every episode very quickly. Leandra is so intelligent and well spoken. She really hits the nail on the head of so many topics that I found myself saying "YAAAASS" and nodding along through almost every episode. I find that she really encourages positive thinking and self awareness without being too new age, as I find some other podcasts and authors. Bottom line, it's completely relatable and you will feel like someone else really gets it.

Favorite Episodes: Vulnerability, Fashion Week is Funny, Saturday State of Mind, Self-Sabotage

2. Reply All -- Gimlet Media produces quite a few awesome podcasts, but Reply All is my favorite. In a nutshell, it explores the human side of the internet. Make sense? No, not really, but give it a listen and you will understand. The stories are captivating and the hosts are hilarious, they really have a gift for storytelling. (Surprisingly Awesome is another Gimlet podcast that deserves a mention!)

Favorite Episodes: The Time Traveler and The Hitman, This Proves Everything, The Art of Making and Fixing Mistakes, Exit and Return

3. Modern Love -- A podcast version of the New York Times popular series, Modern Love has different celebrities read essays that are submitted by readers on the topic of love. It's really fascinating, heartwarming, and funny. The podcast truly explores all different facets of love and the complications that come along with it. It really just embodies what it is to be human. Plus, they have bonus episodes with further commentary and listener stories relating to the previous episode, which I really enjoy.

Favorite episodes: Missed Connections, A Faithful Leap, A Millennial's Guide to Kissing, A Second Embrace

4. Planet Money -- While economics are not my forte, this podcast really grabs my attention and keeps it for the full episode. They explain all things money and economics, and answer several questions that you probably had but never articulated. Like why are Birkin bags so expensive? Why do we tip? How do matzo manufacturers make money? The podcast is equal parts economics, history, and social commentary. All the episodes are very fascinating.

Favorite Episodes: The Fondue Conspiracy, Bagging a Birkin, How Stuff Gets Cheaper

5. This American Life -- Okay, so if you have ever listened to a single podcast, you definitely know about This American Life. But there is a good reason it is so popular. It really delves deep into the issues facing our society as American's, but in a very digestible manner. Some episodes will wrench your heart, some will have you crying with laughter, and a lot will do both. The story telling is the best that I have listened to, and the amount of love and hard work poured into every episode is evident. Also, I want Ira Glass to read to me every night while I fall asleep. A little odd? Maybe, but I love his voice.

Favorite Episodes; Harper High School Part 1 and Part 2, The Incredible Rarity of Changing Your Mind, Cops See It Differently Part 1 and Part 2

101 IN 1001

2016-05-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

How many times have you thought, "Oh I would love to learn how to surf!", "I should volunteer more" or "I've been meaning to try that restaurant/bar/museum"?

I am trying to make a conscious effort toward living an intentional and fulfilling life. Which includes actually doing, and not just setting vague, lofty plans with no deadline. So, I am going to participate in the 101 in 1001, which means 101 goals in 1001 days. This list idea comes from Mackenzie over at Design Darling, who is the middle of her second round. It's been inspiring to keep up with her progress, as well as other participants, so I decided to give it a shot and see if it will keep me on track to shape my life to match how I imagine it.

I actually decided to start this list at the beginning of the year, but I still need to finish it. If you want to see what I have so far, or follow along and see if I can actually complete 101 goals, click the "101 in 1001" at the top of the page.

FRIDAY LINKS

2016-04-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

Last week's trip to Scottsdale was a blast. I had such a good time visiting a new city, relaxing, and connecting with old friends. It just really fed my soul and gave me exactly what I needed. I think everyone can agree that it's easy to get caught up in the day to day whirlwind that we all experience, so it can be hard to keep in touch and have meaningful connection with friends. Going forward, I am definitely going to work on checking in with friends in other cities more often, and also spending more intentional time with my friends nearby.

If you are in SF this weekend, be sure to check out Renegade Craft Fair or the Urban Air Market (or both!). Both events feature awesome local makers and you will be sure to walk away with some amazing things.

My favorite little cactus in Scottsdale last weekend.

POSTGRAD LOVES: CASLON

2016-04-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, as I was walking through Nordstrom, a rack of clothes caught my eye. Judging on the style, I thought it was Splendid. To my surprise, it was actually Caslon, and in house Nordstrom brand. From what I knew about Caslon, I was pleasantly surprised by the pieces. The current collection is full of linens in breezy blues and neutrals, boho accents, and really relaxed silhouettes. I picked out a few of my favorite pieces below, but seriously, check it out next time you are at Nordstrom! Everything looked even better in person. I am really crushing on the jumpsuit (I can never have enough), the sandal, and the peplum top below.

Even better, the pieces are pretty reasonably priced and I have found that Nordstrom brands go on sale pretty frequently.

Sandals $90
Wedges $90
Stripe Dress $68
Lace Dress $78
Jumpsuit $88
Linen Pants $59
Scarf $38
Cardigan $68
Peplum Top $48
Stripe Top $29
Peasant Top $68