Color Crush :: Coral & Navy

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Friends! I have been itching, and I mean itching, to create blog posts for you that don't involve photos of my baby (but please indulge me when I do).  Blog posts that involve what I used to post about.  You know, like clothes, accessories, blah, blah.  So here we go, my first color crush post in...forever!

I love the color combo of coral and navy.  I would love to squeeze into that Madewell striped skirt one night and go for a walk in the park in those adorable coral Keds.  What do you think, are you a fan of the combination?

Friday's Fancies + Have a Terrific Weekend!

leggings // cardigan // blouse // studs // booties // purse

Happy Friday, everyone! I'm particularly pumped that the weekend is here, not for any reason in specific but just the fact that I am ready for it.  It's been a long week and my energy levels have depleted.  Nothing but a home cooked meal is on the agenda for tonight and tomorrow is likely to bring a basement project to life that will help us clear out some unnecessary furniture from the nursery.  Luckily for said project, all I have to do is help hold some boards together for nailing.  Hopefully.  Other than that, I plan to watch some college basketball, celebrate the first birthday of a special little lady and definitely, most definitely, do a lot of resting.

For this week's Friday's Fancies, I've put together a dreamy ensemble that I wish I could sport.  I can round up a similar version I suppose but it just won't be the same.  In due time, right?!  

What are you up to this weekend? Something wonderful, I hope!  Whatever it is you do, I hope you have a terrific time.  

Friday's Fancies + Have a Sweet Weekend!

white tank // blue shorts // brown sandals // black sandals // leather bracelet // llama necklace // coral shorts // striped tee

Happy Friday, everyone!  TGIF, as they say...because it's been a long week in my opinion.  Some crazy things have been happening around our neck of the woods.  Our septic system is completely replaced but our yard is no longer a yard but rather a dirt field.  Goodbye, grass.  I'll miss you dearly.  And since we have to wait for it to settle, which means there needs to be at least 4 or 5 good rains, we probably won't be seeing our yard as a yard for a long time.  But hey, no more gross standing water, yay!

We don't really have much planned for the weekend, other than the usual - obedience school, probably a trip to Lowes or Home Depot and hanging out.  We might catch a movie, spend time on the porch and hopefully spend quality time with friends! What do you have planned?

This week's Friday's Fancies is about color blocking.  I love this trend and find that you can make it work with just about anything.  Lately I've been preferring colored shorts and basic tees.  Honestly, the two ensembles above pretty much reflect my declared summer wardrobe of 2012.  It's simple, easy to accessorize and is super comfortable.  A match made in heaven if you ask me.

Have a lovely weekend, everyone! xoxo.

Thursday Loves

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I fell in love the moment I spotted this colorful arrangement via {av} via Pinterest.   I have my eyes set on coral colored annuals to plant outside after we get back from Jamaica.  Wouldn't it be fantastic to just go outside and pick flowers that equal this lovely arrangement?  I could only hope for something a that equaled a fraction of this beauty.

I was perusing through the latest issue of Lucky when I came across the article, "unexpected purse essentials".  This Aesop Ginger Flight Therapy ($31) fragrance would be pretty incredible to have, as it is both calming and stimulating at once.  It sure would make that flight to Jamaica a little better, don't you think?

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How scrumdiddlyumptious does this creamy lemon tart with rosemary crust look? I want to eat it.  Now.  Lemon + rosemary? So delicious and perfect for the summer weather we're having today.

This cute little gauzy tank dress also comes in coral and white (sold out, unfortunately).  I think it would really make a pretty great cover up dress for the summer and I think I need to hunt one down.  This, my friends, is why blogging is bad for my wallet :)

These coral doors are pretty awesome.  So are all the plants.  Nicely done, I say.  Nicely done.

How are your weeks? Wonderful, I hope!  You've almost made it to Friday!

P.S. - please click this link.  You deserve the laugh.  Unfortunately the images wouldn't load big enough for me to just share with you...

{Finnish Design Shop}

1.  Newspaper Stand $169 // 2.  Calendar $122 // 3.  Dropp Bowl $71 // 4. Cameo Container $69 // 5.  Remix Cushion $98 // 6.  Remix Blanket $145 // 7.  Grass Vase $65 // 8.  Candlestick set $215 // 9.  Clock $155

I have a confession.  I have a crush.  On this Finnish Design Shop.  Obviously. 

 I was tipped off via Pinterest and have been lusting ever since.  Unfortunately, the prices are unattainable for me, but I do hope that this serves as inspiration for many of you.  I know I'll be on a quest to find the next best thing to these lovely objects.  

P.S. - Happy May Day!

Gray + Coral Crush

Shirt // Polish // Runner // Bag // Pouch // Sandals // Shorts // Bike

Loving the mix of coral + gray as of late.  There is so much good stuff out there in both of these hues and I just can't get enough.

Forgotten Hopes

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A fierce image deserves a decently fierce outfit.  Thank God for that ring.  Or else this wouldn't be fierce at all, right?  I mean really, how great is that ring?  I want it.  I want it all.

Mixed Berries

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I want to take this color board and dunk it in a glass of champagne.  Anybody else feel me on that one? Also, is anyone else suddenly so ready for spring?  

Weekend Recap

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Good morning, everyone!  Although I wish it was still Saturday morning, it's nice to say hello again to all of you.  The weekend was great - it flew by as fast as possible (as it always does), we had a lot of fun and I'm sad it's over.  Some highlights include ::

• Dinner + high school girls basketball - the in-laws treated us to dinner and took us to see my husband's stepsister beat their rivals in some bball.  It was pretty freaking awesome.
• Lazy Saturday - I wrapped Christmas presents, ate chilaquiles, took a long, hot shower and had a mid-afternoon cocktail.  
• KU victory over Ohio State!  Oh how sweet it was.  Then it was followed by IU beating UK and I was in heaven!
• Birthday dinner! The mister turns 30 on Tuesday so our friends came out to dinner with us and we feasted on deliciousness at Ramsi's.  
• Mini birthday party!  Just the way we like it.
• Christmas shopping - we're getting so close to being done now.  There are a lot of presents wrapped under the tree. Needless to say, there are some lucky family members, ha ha.
• Our Idiot Brother - it's really pretty funny (although, as with every movie in this genre, it gets cheesy/sappy toward the end) and I enjoyed the cast thoroughly.  It's the perfect movie for Sunday nights when you need a good laugh (we did, we watched the Bears blow a 10 point lead in the last couple minutes against the Broncos.  No good, Bears, no good.)

How were your weekends? Excellent, I hope!  Here's to a great week!

Gift Guide(s) :: Him & Her

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Here you have it, friends.  The beginning of this season's gift guides!  I know I'm a little late compared to many of you, but truth be told...I haven't even started shopping yet.  Woah!

I figured I would start with him and her, she and him.  There is so much stuff out there these days and it's hard to know where to even start.  I figured I'd ignore the fact that I'm probably buying nothing like this for my husband, nor he for me.  So you know, I'll embrace it virtually, or something like that.  

Is anyone else kind of at a loss as to what to get or where to start?  Do you have someone special in your life with a birthday near Christmas?  Boy, it sure does make it hard sometimes.  Not only is his birthday 2 weeks before Christmas, he's also turning 3-0.  No pressure.  But I digress.

Anybody have any ideas to share? I'd love to hear!

Thursday's Randoms

This past weekend, I could really feel the smiles several states away when I heard the news that two of my good friends got engaged!  It's left me grinning ear to ear :)  Via

Speaking of getting engaged...I love this photo.  And I'm definitely feeling it.  The love, that is.  Good ole Max Wanger.

Gus just wanted to let you know that yes, this is very true, and,  yes, he is indeed the brains behind this work of art.

Doesn't Gwyneth look gorgeous in this photo?  Her loose waves and giant smile really draw you in!  Via here found here

This dress is screaming my name.  I love the cut, the fit, the print, the simple colors.  It's such a fun dress to embrace my inner astrologist.  The price isn't half bad, either!

P.S., wouldn't any of these look great paired with this dress right now?

I love leaving you all with a sweet note most weeks, and this week is no exception.  Ali has so many amazing recipes on her blog, Gimme Some Oven.  These caramel apple cider cookies have me drooling.  I can't get rid of the desire to bite into that gooey caramel center!

Anything inspiring you today?  I hope the weather is nice wherever you are and that your day is happy!  We're here with my family now and I'm all smiles :)

House of Color

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Top / Jeans / Oxfords / Clutch / Nail polish / Lipstick

I love playing with color, especially when it comes to these pastel colors on houses in Burano, Italy.  Photographer Irene Suchocki's photograph of colorful houses, sweetly titled, 'Nursery Art, C'mon Get Happy' makes my head do a little happy dance. The colors are so dreamy and it truly translates well into a dreamy outfit, don't you think?  Oh outfit, won't you be mine?

Gargyle

Today I'm wishing I could go on a shopping spree at Gargyle, a NYC boutique (on the lower east side) that carries brands such as Rachel Comey, Acne and Vena Cava, to name a few.  They also have their own collection, showcased in the last image, with tops, sweaters and rain jackets to boot(s)...get it?  While I'm not able to spend $650 for a dress that is not my wedding dress, I am coveting the looks from afar and thought you guys might, too.  So anyone who wants to get me those Rachel Comey booties or oxfords, PLEASE, feel free!

Home Goods

Just a few home accessories I'm lusting after.  You know, if I was chock full of money and could buy all of these cool things.  But a girl can dream...

1. Flower pot table lamp from Finnish Design Shop - $390
2. Early 20th Century Tapestry Blankets from Jen Jones Welsh Quilts - $326 ea
3. Halve Bookends from Dig - $49.99
4. Sunrise clock from Clockeee - $85
5. Oiva Toikka barn owl from Selfridges & Co - out of stock
6. Table Globe from Design Within Reach - $295
7. Tea sub infuser from Utility - $16
8. Tatine Garden + Forest candle from Tatine - price unknown

Thursday Randoms

This Free People Sleeveless Printed Tie Front Buttondown is making my heart all aflutter, with its pretty pattern and colors and especially their choice of pairing it with that skirt!

I'm also feeling quite smitten with this Hickory Pouch from Layerxlayer.  It's simple and refined - what more could you ask for in a pouch?   I'm also pretty into their other stuff, including the wayfarer pack.

Since I live in the land of bourbon now, what better way to celebrate it than to bake a bourbon peach hand pie?  This recipe from Smitten Kitchen has me drooling and craving and then repeating.

There's something about this bedroom that has me feeling soothed.  It must be the incredible natural light and the combination of that navajo blanket and plants.  I'd like to transport myself though, right away.

Last, I'm loving the idea of having turkish towels used throughout our new home.  There's just something about them that strikes me as lovely and I want an entire collection!  Via Etsy shop Turkish Towel (bonus, they are a retired couple!)

Guest post - Johanna of 101 Things I Love

Chicago, I love you…

Hi! My name is Johanna of 101 things i love. I was thrilled and honored when Meagan asked me to guest post during her move. {we’re sad to see her go!} I’ve been a long time fan of Mo Pie, Please and wanted to send her off with some warm fuzzies illustrating what makes her old home so great in hopes that she’ll visit often! 

I’ve been a Chicagoan all my life. Born in the ‘burbs, graduating to a full time fan for over a decade. And no matter where my travels take me, and I’ve seen many-a-cool city, I always return home appreciating the awesome city I live in that much more! Here are a few reasons why…

• Architecture: Skyscrapers, gargoyles, pillars and bridges. This city is a photographer’s dream to shoot with so many styles represented on every block. My favorite shot was taken on my birthday last year outside the new Modern Wing @ the Art Institute. Peruse the art and stay for a glass of wine. It’s the perfect, outdoor spot to take in the scenery not to mention our awesome skyline.
• Culinary Scene: If there is one thing I live for – it’s trying out new restaurants and cuisines. Two of my favorite Chicago eateries are part of this collage. Mon Ami Gabi and Tank Sushi. If you’re a fan of French food and the bistro scene, than Mon Ami Gabi is a must. The atmosphere is  unique in that the cold weather lends to an authentic bistro style bar and cozy booth area and the warm weather {my favorite!} lends to a great outdoor area complete with twinkling lights and a great wine selection. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Tank Sushi is one of the more creative sushi venues out there, in my opinion. Three pages of some of the most unique rolls and the freshest nigri you could ask for. It’s also situated in my favorite neighborhood…Lincoln Square which we’ll get to next!
• Neighborhoods: Lincoln Square has become a fast favorite for me. Its quaint boutiques and antique shops sandwiched between an amazing German beer hall make it not only a great date spot but a great neighborhood for the stroller crowd. They even have their own May and Oktober fests!
• Retail Therapy: If I could have my way, I would make money shopping for a living. And there’s no better area to get my retail on then in Bucktown; particularly the shops on Damen. From Marc Jacobs to Akira to BCBG, the hours fly by and leave my credit cards worse for the wear.
• Music Scene: Undoubtedly, Chicago’s music scene is one of the most unique and diverse. You can hear Ray LaMontagne in a park staring up at skyscrapers or be amongst just a few 100 other music lovers in a small venue like the Aragon Ballroom or The Vic {my personal favorite} and hear the likes of Wilco to Spoon. No matter what your musical influence, you’ll also appreciate and grow to love Chicago’s blues scene including the legendary Kingston Mines.

There you have it – my favorite Chicago nuggets. And to Meagan: thank you for having me. Chicago and I will miss you but we wish you all the best on your new journey. I know we’ll all be following you as you turn the page and start a new chapter in your book. Cheers!

Guest post :: Ashley of Ashley Nicole Catherine

Good morning, everyone!  Today kicks off "Ode to Chicago" week.  Be sure to stop back by this week for all the guest bloggers who have kindly put together their own posts dedicated to Chicago and all it has to offer.  I want to say thank you to everyone for helping me out while we get settled in our new home!  

hi, everyone! this is ashley of fashion and style blog ashley nicole catherine. as you know, meagan is moving this week (we'll miss her!) and asked me to share what i would miss about chicago if moved to another city. well, hands down, one of the best things about chicago is the boutiques! the shopping here is amazing, but my favorite places to shop are the independent boutiques unique to chicago.

two of my favorites are mint julep in lakeview and handle with care in old town. both carry a range items at different price points and lots of designers i love like shoshanna and trina turk. mint julep has great affordable accessories and you're sure to find an amazing dress at handle with care!

thanks for having me, meagan! chicago will miss you!

Thanks so much Ashley!

Dreaming in color :: Turquoise

My favorite color - turquoise/aqua makes me extremely happy all year round.  But it holds a special place in my heart in the warmer months, when pops of color are everywhere.  I always gravitate towards this hue when shopping - maybe it's the close resemblance to water, or maybe it's the fact that it flatters my super pale skin.  Either way, I totally dig it.

1.  Hunter Boots - $120
2.  Calypso St. Barth shorts - $138
3.  Harvey Nichols Twisted back one piece 
4.  Opening Ceremony Tsumori Chisato - $245
5.  Max & Chloe Cocktail Ring - $170
6.  J Brand cut-off shorts - $205
7.  Jigsaw Flat Bow Espadrilles - $75
8.  Journelle Cosabella Soire Molded Bra - $51

P.S. - Happy birthday to my niece, lil' miss Ally girl!  She is now 6 going on 20, I swear!

Friday's Fancies

Friday's Fancies by Meaganpie featuring french connection dresses

French connection dress, $188
Charlotte Olympia platform shoes, 550 GBP
Alexander wang handbag, $580
Bijoux Heart butterfly jewelry, $575
Yellow ring

Hooray for another Friday!  And another Friday's Fancies!  I'm very excited about this weekend in particular because we are going to a special wedding tomorrow to see our friends Daniel & Megan get hitched!  So many good friends are in town right now and we've already been hanging out like crazy.  Today is a rehearsal, tonight is a welcome/rehearsal dinner a few blocks down the street (hooray for stumbling home on foot later) and tomorrow is the wedding.  This weekend should be pretty awesome.

If money were no object, I would definitely want to wear this French Connection lace dress.  I love the color and the style of it and think it would be perfect for tomorrow's festivities.  I love how the sleeves are longish so it could be warm if the Chicago weather gets crazy.  The color is neutral enough that you could pair it with anything - I had a hard time deciding on which shoes to pick.  It's funny because I would NEVER wear those shoes since I wouldn't be able to last more than a few minutes in them, but they're playful and colorful and I couldn't resist.

What are you all up to this weekend? I hope something summery and fun!

Joy the Store

Loving the simple pieces from new-to-me UK shop, Joy the Store.  Unique, stylish and won't completely break the bank!