Girl Palace

Birthday Boy!

2012-11-28T13:17:00.000-06:00

The little fluffy munchkin featured on this blog is about to turn 1 this weekend! That's right, the most adorable Pomeranian is growing up (much to his mother's dismay). Here's a look back at his first year!

I cannot believe almost one year ago my favorite little boy was born. He has changed my life in the best way possible!

Kingston 12.2.11

Happy Birthday my sweetie! Mommy loves you =0 and so does Auntie G.

-H

(If you are at all interested in a Pomeranian of your own I am happy to help you reach Kingston's breeder here in Minnesota. Email me at mill3815@gmail.com)

Music Wednesday--must see!

2012-11-14T10:02:00.000-06:00

I'm slightly off our usual template but... I had to post about our most recent concert because of something I just saw!

Passion Pit

Look at these dashing lads. HOLY COW!

We saw them a few weeks ago at our clutch venue First Ave and despite a small mishap towards the end with their PA system they were phenomenal. We danced our tails off and they provided a wonderful time. I nearly forgot to do a post about the show until I saw this ad for Brooks Brothers. yeeeeooowwwww.

It was a cold night so we swung into a local pub close by to warm up before the show...

Hot Toddy

Michael Angelakos

G took some video at the show so hopefully she'll be by soon to show off the experience!

Check out their latest album Gossamer and their first single:

Take A Walk

-H

The Year of the Owl

2012-11-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

Try this in your search query 'owl.' I dare you. These adorable birdies are EVERYWHERE. Strange, since you don't usually see them in daylight in the wild but they are popping up in stores all over the place. G has the strangest obsession with the furry creatures, she literally screams when she sees them! We have everything from earrings, to art, to hand towels with these guys adorned on them.

Here are some of my favs:

Sequin owl top via French Connection

Owl scarf via Nordstroms

And how about embracing the latest trend when thinking about your Christmas presents? There are plenty of wrapping options and ornaments to choose from!

Adorable owl tissue via Paper Source

Owl wrap via World Market

Owl Hot Water Bottle via TopShop

Has the owl craze hit you? Have you ever fallen for a certain animal motif? We certainly have....

Have a HOOT of a day =)

-H

Hiatus

2012-11-10T10:18:00.004-06:00

Blogger back. Sorry. Took a short, unannounced vacation from the blog. But I'm back and ready to rawrrrr. Well, sort of. A light one for you today, just to remind you to check out monthly online mags if you haven't yet. Lonny has a really great feature about artist Jeremiah Goodman, last month was his 90th birthday. He is one of those iconic artists whose work is featured everywhere but until you research his name you have no idea who to credit for such masterpieces.

There is also a short article about him on Apartment Therapy.

Hope you are all well! Here's to the resurrection of this here blog!

-H

Music Monday: Mumford & Sons

2012-10-15T19:30:00.001-05:00

Disclaimer: We at Girl Palace strive to bring you the BEST music with our Music Monday series. Beware, this is one of the best we will post ever.

As of 24th of September I found my most recent obsession: Babel. What is Babel you might ask? No, not the 2006 movie featuring Brad Pitt, no not the ancient city in the land of Shinar, but the sophomore album released by none other than Mumford & Sons.

If you are unfamiliar with the aforementioned group please, take the time to read this lengthy post in full, you will not be disappointed.

As I said, Babel is the follow up album from these cuties.

Their debut, Sigh No More, was enough to get me interested and I knew it wouldn't take much to achieve adoration but Babel has led to pure obsession.

Sigh No More is a complete labor of love. It is painful and touching and artistic and raw. None of these qualities are absent in Babel but it is a departure from the freshman project. If at all possible, Marcus Mumford and his comrades have exceeded harmonic perfection and topped it with sentiment. The reflective compositions show a vulnerability only achievable with the effortless, raspy, addicting voice of Marcus Mumford.
Their sound is similar to that when they emerged but maturation is obvious and the familiarity of their hum is more impressive with each listen. There are plenty of critics out there saying they managed to fill an entire album with the same sound and songs with different words, I disagree. I am a lover. This will be purchased on vinyl and blasted throughout our apartment as G becomes familiar with tracks and eventually falls in love as well.

My first obsession:

"Below My Feet"

I also enjoy the title track "Babel" and "Lover of the Light." I do listen from start to finish though without skipping a single track. They are releasing new tour dates every week--you can bet on us purchasing tickets when they come through Minneapolis! < Hopefully soon.

Check these guys out!

-H

Girl Palace DIY: Terrarium

2012-10-11T17:41:00.001-05:00

I was inspired by a DIY I saw on Design Sponge recently here. So I set out in search of an ugly lamp. I knew I would find one at a thrift shop.

My find:

Not pretty at all in lamp form. These lamps remind me of poorly decorated homes in subdivisions all over America. I couldn't say no to the $3.99 price tag, especially since it was 50% off for the Columbus Day Sale!

Another view of the guts... I was not sure at the outset how I would dislodge the fixture from the inside...

The process:

I tugged and twisted and yanked and pulled and eventually it gave way. All it took was a snip of the scissors and out came the lights.

The planting:

I went to Home Depot and bought potting soil, succulents, and moss. I found rocks outside and reused a saucer from a broken pot to put underneath.

The finished look:

So beautiful! I will most certainly be finding more lamps in different shapes and trying this more. Perhaps they would make a nice Christmas gift for a few friends?

The terrarium sits next to this sweet little pepper plant in a chevron pot I spray painted last summer!

Stay tuned for a peek inside the Girl Palace ITSELF later this week!

Will you try a DIY? What have you been dying to make?!

-H

Steps to Better Sleep

2012-10-10T11:38:00.000-05:00

I cherish my sleep. G loves to sleep. Kingston, loves to sleep. We are a sleep worshiping group. So, when I came across some tips for better sleep I thought, "this is worth sharing for those other sleep-loving folks."

1. Unplug

Tucking in with your laptop in tow can be disruptive to your sleep. It is obvious that the noise and movement would keep your mind busy but did you know that the glow from the screen can simulate daylight making it difficult for your brain and body to unwind and inhibiting your body's production of melatonin? Time for me to make some changes to my routine...

2. Less of the Dark Stuff

I know what caffeine does, wakes me up in the morning. Whether it's diet coke or coffee, you can find it in my hand from 5:30am-1:00pm and sometimes later. What I didn't know is it can linger in your system for up to twelve hours...! You mean that diet coke I drank at dinner could wake me up at 4am? Not fun. This is a tough one to choke down.

3. Drink up, Drink up! But wait... not too much.

We have all made the goal of drinking more of this good stuff but it only makes sense... it has to come out at some point. It's recommended that we cut off 1 hour prior to bedtime.

4. Create a Nest

We spend a large chunk of time in our bed, only makes sense for it to be as comfortable as possible.

5. Keep it on the Low

No not the height of your bed, the temperature. I have to agree with this one. I have a small heater that I turn on for a few minutes if it is blistering cold but otherwise I curl up with tons of blankets and a Pomeranian to stay warm. G on the other hand likes her room like a sweat box. Your room should remain at 65 degrees (plus or minus 5) which is the temperature at which your body can remain most comfortable.

6. Get moving in the A.M.

Unfortunately, my schedule does not allow for this most days but someday I hope to fit morning workouts into my schedule. Exercise reduces stress which is good for relaxing but, it increases your core body temperature making it tough to doze. Get it done earlier rather than later!

7. Tidy up

Making your bed might seem like a waste of five minutes when you are already rushing out the door but, the benefits are endless. Not only is it much more inviting when you come home becasue it's already done and let's admit it's not the first thing we want to do after a long day but, the National Sleep Foundation says that 44 percent of people who make their beds daily report sleeping more soundly than those that don't. Take the extra five minutes!

8. ~~Sleepy Sundays~~

Another tough pill to swallow. Wide range of wake up times can put you at risk for insomnia. Those extra hours in bed on Sundays feel nice at the time, but are probably coming back to bite you by Wednesday.

9. Not Another Night Cap

Now, the article suggests skipping the drink altogether. However, I'd like to contest that there are some benefits to a drink before bed. Whether those are psychological or physical probably depends on the person. I think it can't hurt. Keep that glass of wine if it helps you relax but stick to just one.

10. Cherry Juice

I can remember hearing radio commercials preaching this juice. Now, they say it has benefits before bed. Just one class and you could be on your way to an extra 25 minutes of peaceful sleep, claims a British study conducted on those who drink it regularly.

11. Your Nose Knows

Researchers have found that lavender can improve sleep quality. Perhaps a reed diffuser or scented spray?

Some options:

Lavender Reed Diffuser $17

Bath and Body Works Lavender Wallflower $6.50

12. Help!

If none of this works for you, you should seek professional assistance. You can visit sleepfoundation.org for more information.

*Post adapted from this article.

H's Sleep Tricks:

1. Reading
Grab a book before bed. Even a few pages can help. It does wonders for your mind, and makes your eyes sleepy.

2. An oscillating fan
I enjoy the constant and settling noise. I actually find it difficult to sleep without one!

G's Sleep Tricks:

1. Reflect
I try not to think about the next day but rather think about the day I just had.

2. Music
I often fall asleep to classical or jazz music or sometimes the This American Life podcast because Ira Glass' voice is the most soothing thing I have ever heard.

Do you have any sleep tricks? What works for you? What doesn't?

-H

A thought for your Tuesday....

2012-10-09T12:38:00.001-05:00

“I, with a deeper instinct, choose a man who compels my strength, who makes enormous demands on me, who does not doubt my courage or my toughness, who does not believe me naïve or innocent, who has the courage to treat me like a woman.” -Anaïs Nin

-H

Music Monday: Grizzly Bear

2012-10-08T15:52:00.002-05:00

I'll admit it. I wasn't as pumped as I should be for this show. The Grizzly Bear concert kind of crept up on us, so much so that I forgot that it was happening until only a couple days beforehand. Nonetheless, I dragged my tired and slightly sick self to the concert with my lovely friend Katy, after we stuffed our faces with some Chipotle burritos. We both finished them. We are so good at eating.

First Ave is becoming a second home to Girl Palace. If we are not at our apartment, work, or a thrift store, we are at First Avenue (now you know the top places to look if we go missing).

Very full, Katy and I showed up at First Ave just before the opener--Lower Dens--took the stage. We found a standing spot on the upper level, which worked out quite well. I don't think the concert was sold out, but it was pretty packed by the time Grizzly took the stage. I hadn't heard of Lower Dens beforehand, and overall, I did enjoy their music. Katy and I decided that the band's music was good, but not really that exciting live. More like, study music. And that's just my opinion--but no one in the crowd was really dancing or bobbing their heads. Maybe they were all just taking it in like me.

Here's a good one:

Lower Dens takes the stage

So all in all, would I buy tickets to a Lower Dens concert? Probably not. Will I add a couple of their songs to a (calming, relaxing) Spotify playlist? I think so.

On to Grizzly Bear...

These guys did NOT disappoint. There's nothing I love more than seeing a band perform that actually looks like THEY are having a blast, too. These boys were dancing around, talking to the audience...very engaging. Everyone's heads in the sea of people below were bobbing in unison (including a dude with a realllly sweet afro), and after a couple of songs, many were dancing along with the band. Their stage set-up really added to the experience, too. Gauzy lanterns hung at different levels around the stage, that lit up to the beat of the songs, creating a whole light show to go along with the performance. This concert was great to hear AND see. Take a gander:

I only really knew a couple of Grizzly Bear songs well before this, so I was going into this concert kind of blind--and they definitely sold me. I've been listening to old and new Grizzly Bear stuff (new album JUST came out a couple weeks ago) and I'm really liking their sound. Here are some of my faves:

So all in all, this was a...beary good night of music and entertainment. (TC Bear &) I give it two thumbs up.

From one Bear to another...

Next on the concert docket: Passion Pit at (you guessed it...) First Ave!

We heart First Ave!

Just Another Manic Monday

2012-10-08T09:18:00.001-05:00

Yes, today IS and FEELS just like a Monday. Hope you are all surviving.G will be in soon to update us on last week's trip to First Avenue for the Grizzly Bear concert. Last night we took a trip to a thrift and TJ Maxx for some retail therapy and post greasy food binge. G started the initial purchasing for her Halloween costume and I found some treasures and new wardrobe additions. What a nice chilly October evening. Today on the other hand...it felt impossible to wake up and work is neither entertaining nor tolerable.

Monday can't be over soon enough.

-H

Looking Forward: 2013

2012-10-05T14:56:00.002-05:00

We gushed last week about our upcoming concert list here... a great great list.

We have since added:

Of Monsters and Men

Tuesday, December 18 First Avenue Mainroom 7pm SOLD OUT

Walk The Moon

Friday, January 18 Fine Line Music Cafe 7pm

What a wonderful way to welcome the New Year!!!!

TGIF!

-H

Wednesday Inspiration

2012-10-03T12:02:00.000-05:00

"Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you."
-Dr. Suess

More Boots, Please

2012-10-02T13:52:00.004-05:00

Besides jumping in piles of leaves and visiting pumpkin patches, one of my favorite reasons for fall is fall fashions: sweaters, hats, scarfs, jeans, jackets, vests, and one of my faves...BOOTS. To me, boots are the epitome of fall fashion--wear a pair of equestrian boots with leggings and an oversized sweater or combats with black jeans and denim button up. I love expressing my personal style with all types of shoes, and boots are the perfect for comfort, warmth and style in the coming fall season.

G's Boot Collection:


Steve Madden, Intyce Boot $129 @nordstrom.com

I have had these boots for probably almost 3 years now, and the soles are honestly peeling off so badly I've taken gaffer's tape [see below] to them and refuse to throw them away. I love these puppies so much I'm considering buying the same pair all over again. Highly recommend.

See? Not lying about my sad attempts, here.


Frye, Veronica Back Zip, $367.95 @ nordstrom.com

I usually would not own such an expensive pair of boots but a past coworker of mine very graciously offered them to me when they did not fit her. Lucky? yes, very lucky. Frye boots are freakin' awesome.


Born, Karin, $47.25 @ ebay.com

This purchase was inspired by a pair of boots my coworker had. Everyone I talked to said Born boots were not only great quality but known for their comfort. These are great. I usually pair them with my black pants and work great for an edgier, more casual look.


Sorel, Tivoli Plaid, $110 @ Sports Authority

I love these boots so much I've already worn this fall. And yeah, it's barely fall. The second the thermometer dipped just below 60 degrees, in slipped my little toes into these fuzzy bundles of warmth and happiness. There are so many different styles of Sorel boots, and they definitely are great for a warm yet fashionable choice for when the snow comes. These WILL be my footwear of choice for 90% of my days, November through February, there's no doubt there.

G's Wish List:

So yes, I think I have a great variety of boots going on, but what I'm currently dying for is a good combat boot and/or biker boot:


Steve Madden, Astoria, $149.95 @ Steve Madden

Now these are on my wish list for a reason--the prices are way too high for my measly budget, but a girl can dream, right? These biker boots are great. I love the chunky, low heel, stud detail, and three buckles. I feel like I could kick someone's lily white butt in these kicks.


Steve Madden, Jaax, $159.95 @ Steve Madden

These motorcycle boots are pretty sweet. I love the wide-ribbed knit inset detail and the zipper on the side. I can definitely pretend I'm Che Guevara (pre-Cuba), motorcyclin' my way through South America in these puppies.

Steve Madden, Tarnney, $149.95 @ Steve Madden

I made these the biggest because they are my faaaaaaaaavorite. I love the idea of sprucing up the basic combat with some studs on the toe and heel. I cannot describe how badly I want these expensively delicious shoes.

I'll keep y'all posted with my 2012 boot purchases. Who knows--maybe I'll get the guts to press the "purchase" button for one of these three pairs of boots on my wish list. Which one is your favorite? Which boots do YOU own or are DYING to buy?

Music Monday: The Head and the Heart

2012-10-01T14:43:00.001-05:00

I have a problem. I am pretty sure I have fallen in love with 6 people all at one time. And they all happen to be members of the same band: The Head and the Heart.

The Head and the Heart at First Ave was quite magical--this group really knows how to put on a show and get the crowd belting the tunes just as loud as they are (I like to pretend I sound as good as Charity, but let's be honest--no one can ever EVER sound as good as she does...)

H & I (plus our lovely friend Kim) got to the concert in enough time to see Blitzen Trapper sing some tunes, and I've got to say, I will definitely be adding them to my next Spotify playlist. Here's one of their tunes. I like their country/folk style--it reminds me a lot of Dr. Dog, who we saw not long ago in the same venue...

We found our way to the side of the stage, where we were not in direct view of the band, but right by the backstage and in a good spot to move around and boogie.

Each of us had our one song we were most excited about. But as the night went on, I realized that I was super excited about each and every one of their songs. Cats & Dogs? Rivers & Roads?! Sounds Like Hallelujah?!?! My excitement grew more and more as the night went on, and a lot of me wouldn't have minded buying another ticket for their second show at First Ave the next night. Wait--why DIDN'T I do that!?!?! If you have a chance, I'd definitely recommend seeing these guys live. It will undoubtedly be a heavenly time. And if you're reading this...Josiah Johnson, Charity Thielen, Jonathon Russell, Chris Zasche, Kenny Hensley, and Tyler Williams: will you guys be my boyfriends/girlfriend? K thanks bye.

Saturday Do: Fall for Fall

2012-09-29T18:55:00.001-05:00

Happy Fall, everyone! I hope y'all are enjoying your Saturday as much as Girl Palace is....well, at least half of Girl Palace. H is off working away like a busy bee, and I have done nothing but enjoy a nice, long walk with Mr. Kingston outside and some Titanic on HBO (of course I turned it off the second the iceberg hits....)

Although we will miss summer dearly--walks around the lakes, barbeques, walking to the bars without needing even ONE extra layer....ah, the good old days...--fall can be JUST as pleasant: trips to the apple orchard/pumpkin patch, the changing colors of leaves, and of course, cute fall fashions.

We are loving our new surge of followers and would love to hear from each and every one of you! What is your favorite thing about fall? What are you going to miss about summer? We'd love to hear from y'all :0)

Girl Palace Fall Do's:

Walks with pups

Bright bright foliage

Yummy yummy pho

Boots!! :0)

Cute fall decor

A Little Sibling Love

2012-09-27T09:38:00.001-05:00

So, I was perusing the Twittersphere yesterday morning, and noticed #nationalsiblingsday trending. Although when I Google National Siblings Day, sources tell me it's April 10th, I'm totally okay with celebrating it today anyway. Siblings rock. Neither H nor I is an only child. I personally could not imagine being an only child--I only had a glimpse into this world for three years while living alone with my parents (I'm the youngest) and it was frankly quite terrifying (never do I want all of the parental attention devoted to me and only me).

I came across this article from 2006 published in TIME which describes the "new science" behind sibling relationships. Here's an excerpt:

From the time they are born, our brothers and sisters are our collaborators and co-conspirators, our role models and cautionary tales. They are our scolds, protectors, goads, tormentors, playmates, counselors, sources of envy, objects of pride. They teach us how to resolve conflicts and how not to; how to conduct friendships and when to walk away from them. Sisters teach brothers about the mysteries of girls; brothers teach sisters about the puzzle of boys. Our spouses arrive comparatively late in our lives; our parents eventually leave us. Our siblings may be the only people we'll ever know who truly qualify as partners for life. "Siblings," says family sociologist Katherine Conger of the University of California, Davis, "are with us for the whole journey."

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1209949,00.html#ixzz27bORdIpg

How awesomely true is this. At least, in my case. I recognize that I am lucky to have two great older sisters who have been there by my side my entire life, and will continue to be no matter what. I always tell everyone that I am a complete mix of my two sisters, with, of course, a little extra rebellion sprinkled in.

I realize this is a sappy post, but take some time out of your day to thank your siblings, or if you don't have any or aren't close to yours, those in your life that have been with you through and through, and who have shaped you.

It's a good thing I like my oddball pair of sisters, because frankly, I don't have a choice. I'm stuck with them forever, and they are stuck with me :0)

The Reis sisters are too good for a low-carb diet.

Oldest to youngest!

Here's a little video I shot and edited for my sister Michelle's wedding. To this day, it's the video piece I am most proud of creating (even over client stuff at work), and it makes me cry like a little baby every time I watch it. Jess and I were joint maids of honor (and pretty amazing ones at that). This wedding was way cute: two English teachers getting married means lots of Shakespeare references and other cute literary- themed trinkets.

Sean & Michelle from Gina Reis on Vimeo.

First LIVE post

2012-09-26T21:25:00.001-05:00

Coming from the Mecca of music itself: First Avenue, G and I and our friend Kim are about to enjoy the musical pleasures of The Head and the Heart!

Tune in to Music Monday for our review of the night!

-H

Anticipation

2012-09-26T12:20:00.000-05:00

[an-tis-uh-pey-shuhn]
1. the act of anticipating or the state of being anticipated
2. realization in advance; foretaste
3. expectation or hope

I entitle this post this way because of the general feeling in our apartment. With regard to plenty of things but mostly our concert agenda for the next few months. While we missed out on a great show last night (Imagine Dragons) we have a lot to look forward to.

Tonight:

The Head and the Heart

First Avenue Mainroom 7:30pm SOLD OUT

Monday, October 1

Grizzly Bear

First Avenue Mainroom 7:30pm

Monday, October 29

Passion Pit

First Avenue Mainroom 6:30pm SOLD OUT

Wednesday, December 12

Punch Brothers

First Avenue Mainroom 7:30pm

Tuesday, December 18

Of Monsters and Men

First Avenue Mainroom 7:00pm SOLD OUT

I am sure we will find others in between but this is definitely putting a smile on our faces!

Do you have tickets to any upcoming concerts?

-H

Award Show Fashion...version deux...for the lads

2012-09-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

The men showed up as well this year at the Emmy's refusing to allow the ladies to steal their thunder... My favorites were: Alec Baldwin, Max Greenfield, Aaron Paul, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson

The Lads:

Jon Hamm wearing Giorgio Armani

Alec Baldwin wearing Zegna

Zachary Quinto

Bryan Cranston wearing John Varvatos

Max Greenfield wearing Brooks Brothers

Aaron Paul wearing Kaufman Franco

Jesse Tyler Ferguson wearing Black Fleece for Brooks

Looking oh so dapper if I must say so. . . what a nice thing to see!

Who wore it best? Who wore it worst?

-H

Mishap-Music Monday: The Civil Wars

2012-09-25T10:57:00.001-05:00

Oops. We missed Music Monday. My apologies... hopefully what is to follow will make up for the delay, actually I am certain it will.

Behold a duo of the most magnificent geniuses..

The Civil Wars

Joy Williams and John Paul White

It doesn't get much more bare bones and beautiful than these two. They harmonize together as if they were conceived to be a musical duo. They don't use anyone but themselves. They travel with no band. They are described on their website with the most perfect words, "Each song is an intimate conversation, and no third wheels or dinner-party chatter are going to interrupt that gorgeous, haunting hush." Grey's Anatomy gave us a first taste of them in the foreground of a past episode, but country sensation Taylor Swift helped them skyrocket to the forefront when she tagged them in her iTunes playlist saying their track "Poison and Wine..."

"...is my favorite duet. It's exquisite."

They are something astounding, amazing, impeccable. I cannot get enough of them. It should also be mentioned, my most recent crush (yes, a boy) asked if he could play a favorite song for me. Of course you can! I responded. I want to know what kind of music you enjoy. Without seeing the screen of my phone I heard the angelic voice of Joy Williams and screamed "OMG The Civil Wars?! Are you the man of my dreams?!" Yes, yes he did play The Civil Wars. Big time brownie points, boy. =)

He played....

Their debut CD Barton Hollow is a must. Check out their website too! I can only hope that they will make a stop in Minneapolis on their tour. I would die to have the chance to see this humble, majestic pair.

I also learned that they won some Grammy Awards earlier this year for their collaboration with Taylor Swift on The Hunger Games Soundtrack, "Safe and Sound." MTV actually wrote a nice article about their debut on the music scene.

What a lovely couple!

Do you fancy their sound?

-H

Award Show Fashion

2012-09-25T08:43:00.001-05:00

Oooohhweee there were some hot looks at the Emmy Awards.

My favorites:

Morena Baccarin from "Homeland" wearing Basil Soda

Maria Menounos wearing Oliver Torentino

Julianne Hough wearing Georges Hobeika Couture

Plunging necklines were all the rage and there were stand-out hues. Of course their are plenty of articles and pictures but I prefer to dissect the material on my own. It's all too appropriate that the Emmy's fall just after Fashion Week. Do you think the stars came out in full force, or did they flop?

Mustard

Wine

Seafoam

Gray

Tangerine

I think the hue stories are enough to focus on but other tabloids and articles are focusing on other trends including: sparkle, statement belts, and huge hair.

Did you have any favorite trends? Who wore it best? Who wore it worst? Which of your favorite shows took home awards?

-H

The Equestrian Fall

2012-09-24T07:16:00.000-05:00

As we have discussed...fall is upon us, soon. A trend I mentioned last week that I am anxiously awaiting to sport: equestrian. I have a slight, renewed, obsession with horses so it is only fitting that I would love the style around the sport. Refinery 29 got it right by saying it is one of those trends that allows us to be something we are not, and in my case think about horses (crazy). Refinery 29 has a slideshow of 15 looks that embrace the trend without the doo-doo on the boots, much more chic. I love them all but the prices are a bit steep on a few... so I've found some alternatives and included the reasonable items!

The inspiration

Key pieces for the look:

Horseshoe necklace $31 via Etsy

Ruffle Chambray Top $54.95 via Gap

Steve Madden Rogerr Riding Boots $160 via Piperlime

Horse earrings $52 via Far Fetch

Schoolboy blazer $178 via J Crew

Slip-lock waist belt $5.80 via Forever 21

I scored these at TJ Maxx for $100

Chunky cardigan $17.80 via Forever 21

Silver Horseshoe Ring $68 via Etsy

Oh sweet dear....no no no, this style does not stop with clothing. Check out these housewares and gorgeous furniture also inspired by the trend.

Navajo Needlepoint Horse Armchair c/o The Gypsy Wagon

Horse Prints $2.99 via Etsy

Horse pillow $35 via Etsy

Framed Print $50 via Etsy

Horse Stationary $3.75 via Etsy

And the list goes on.. check out Dappled Grey for everything Equestrian.

Are you excited to try on the equestrian look? Don't you love horses?! I sure do...
-H

Artsy Feelings

2012-09-21T13:48:00.000-05:00

So I stumbled upon a nice article on CNN the other day about art and it got me thinking... what does art mean to me? What does art mean to G? What I do know is my favorite artist is Frida Kahlo. And the CNN article I read got me thinking about what about art I appreciate and what I think about regarding art.

The article begins with an interesting thought,

"Pablo Picasso once said, "We all know that Art is not truth. Art is a lie that makes us realize truth, at least the truth that is given us to understand. The artist must know the manner whereby to convince others of the truthfulness of his lies."

Of this I am certain: I am addicted to the art of the magnificent Frida Kahlo. I can blame this on the simple association of her Hispanic roots (and my BA in Spanish) but it is so much more than that. Her art blows my mind. Pardon the phrase. I cannot help myself. Her paintings alone are mesmerizing, but what lies beyond what is in plain sight is unimaginable. She manages to incorporate what is real and telling from her life, both the flattering and the embarrassing, despite the very approachable nature of her work.

She was born Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo Calderon on July 6th, 1907 to her Hungarian/German?Jewish father Guillermo Kahlo and her indigenous/Spanish mother, as their third daughter. After she contracted polio, and rumored to suffer from spina bifida, she was involved in a bus accident at age 18 which left her in a full body cast, confined to bed, where she began to paint. Her mother had a special easel made for her so she could do this from her reclined position. She often painted portraits because she said she was always alone and insisted upon painting her own reality.

She married the famous painter Diego Rivera two whom she was married twice. Both times were tumultuous due to their fiery temperaments and involved multiple extra-marital affairs from both parities. She only ever presented her art formally at two shows and has achieved more spectacular fame posthumously but I adore her nevertheless. source

Arguably one of her more famous works:

The Two Fridas

One of my favorites and the first purchased work by a 20th-Century Mexican artist in an internationally renowned museum; the Louvre:

Do you have a favorite artist? Explore beyond IKEA, great art awaits thee.

Other great sources:
"The Trouble With Frida Kahlo"
Frida Kahlo

-H

Three's Company

2012-09-20T12:07:00.000-05:00

Every morning I am awoken by a little ball of fluff panting and sniffing in my face. After writing in this blog for weeks, I realized that we have forgotten to properly introduce you to the third member (and probably cutest member) of Girl Palace: Kingston the Pomeranian. At a whopping 2.5 lbs, this dog makes up for all that he's lacking in toughness with his relentless energy and little puppy love. Some of his favorite activities include playing on fluffy beds, brisk walks, and the occasional nap. Internet, meet Kingston.

"Oh hai, Auntie G. I like your globe."

"Can you pet me now?!"

"I LOVE WALKS, MOM!"

Music Monday: Washed Out

2012-09-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

Sometimes this is how I feel: washed out. Nothing left. Down to zero. Often times I turn to music to help my mood. Washed Out is the best cure to an empty feeling. Go grab a hot cup of tea and a blanket. Find a nice quiet spot in the house and set this for your background. You will not be unhappy.
My favorites from them:

"Feel It All Around"

"Eyes Be Closed"

they also have a pretty cool tumblr

-H