Falling Hard

{acne sweater, AG leather leggings, valentino rockstar tote, rag & bone booties, pamela love ring, nixon watch}

Summer's almost over! I can't believe how quickly the time has gone - didn't summer just start? And even though it will probably continue to be brutally hot for the next couple months in Southern California, everyone is over the summer sundress look and ready for sweater season. I love the edginess we're going to see this fall, with just enough studs and crosses to keep it interesting without having to commit to the goth look. Adding a bright sweater keeps things playful. And those ankle boots - don't get me started. I am dying for those boots.

the kitchen blues

I didn't watch HGTV's series Design Star this season, but I caught an episode of the winner's show, Danielle Colding's Shop This Room and I was pleasantly surprised by her work. She incorporated beachy tones without making it over the top theme-y. It has inspired me to bring in some blue-gray tones to my kitchen too. I also love the pops of yellow that offers punchy color against the more neutral tones.

The fun thing about watching the episode was seeing the amazing little boutiques where she found the elements that transformed the room. I love the shelving with the blue Moroccan tile, and all the beautiful dishes and knick-knacks she found to fill the space.

These pictures and more here

shaken or stirred: grapefruit basil fizz

I was never a big fan of grapefruit juice until a friend insisted I try her greyhound, a cocktail of grapefruit juice and vodka. Grapefruits seem to be one of those divisive love it or hate it fruits, but even if you are in the anti- crowd, this twist on the greyhound might change your mind. This drink was served at an amazing party at my best friend KC's house, and I was hooked. There is something really refreshing and light about a citrus-based cocktail, and the basil keeps it from getting too sweet. It's the perfect drink for a summer evening, or a sunny afternoon on the deck.

I served this drink at a get together we had on Wednesday night with friends, and it was a huge hit! And it is so easy to make, you don't have to spend all your time mixing complicated drinks.

Grapefruit Basil Fizz

Ingredients:
2 oz good vodka
8 oz fresh grapefruit juice
A splash Sprite or 7-Up
A couple sprigs basil

Mix the vodka and grapefruit juice in a glass, and top off with a splash of sprite. Muddle some basil leaves either with your hands or with a mortar and pestle (if you are fancy like that), and add to the glass. You can serve over ice, or put in a shaker. Add a sprig of basil for garnish, and enjoy!

weekend snaps

{big crowd at the Hammer Museum, my favorite new lipstick (revlon lip butter - it's awesome!), taking a walk around the library, and visiting with my favorite little pup}