Royal Blue (See Jane Observe)

I must admit that I wasn't totally into the royal wedding until I saw the Lifetime movie (my guilty pleasure isn't so secret anymore, I guess) about William and Kate. The couple's public persona is quite charming.  Kate seems like a perfectly nice (and normal) girl and they appear to be very much in love, which is refreshing for people who constantly must face a harsh public.  I know millions of gals are probably sad to see Prince William off and married, but personally, I've always been more of a Prince Harry girl myself.

What I most notice about Kate, aside from her stunning beauty, is how often she wears blue (and magnificent hats, but that's a whole different topic).  Naturally, I'm excited to see the wedding dress, but I can't help but wonder if her "something blue" will be incorporated into it more than what's expected?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mexico List (See Jane Wish)

The wedding is less than 30 days away.  I'm actually quite calm;  I think I was freaking out about things more a few months ago.  However, I still need to get some things done that I hope to check off my list in the upcoming weeks.  As per usual, instead of finishing up last minute details when I get home from work, I've been scouring the internet and looking for new things to buy for my week south of the border (I won't be wearing a wedding dress all week, you know).

1. Elizabeth and James Lafayette Sunglasses

2. H&M Straw Hat

3. Splendid Vintage Whisper Top

4. Anya Hindmarch Boat Bag 

5. Bernardo Tie Leather Ankle-Wrap Sandals

6. Topshop Multi Deckchair Dress

7. J Crew Drew Polka Dot Bikini

My First Risotto (See Jane Cook)

Making risotto has always both intrigued and intimidated me.  So much stirring.  So many steps.  I didn't think I could handle it until one day I snapped out of it (I hate failing in the kitchen, you see) and decided I needed to see what the fuss in making it was all about.  As it turns out, it's really not that hard; it's not even as needy of a dish compared to others I've made.  I must note that one does need to be mindful when making risotto, though; otherwise, you might end up with something burnt, or worse, overcooked.  I asked Eric what he wanted in the risotto and when he requested shrimp, I knew that I needed to use peas as an accompaniment (one of my favorites).  I ended up using this recipe and it turned out delicious.  It was my first risotto, but definitely not my last.

Tea Time (See Jane Wear)

                 Forever21 top + belt, vintage skirt, Ray Ban sunglasses, unknown necklace, c/o Nine West Sophie Theallet shoes

My mom threw me a bridal shower this weekend at a quaint, little tea house in my hometown (my friends and sisters threw me one at the beginning of the month here in Chicago).  It was fun to gather round and sip tea out of dainty teacups with my extended family and friends.  I'm so grateful for all that attended and their generosity; I can't believe the wedding so so close!

Since the shower theme was "tea time," I thought it was the perfect opportunity to wear the vintage midi-skirt I recently bought on eBay.  To keep the outfit from looking too proper, I wore these Nine West Parisian/70's inspired platforms, which were surprisingly comfortable given their height (they made me well over 6 ft tall).  I don't normally fancy myself a mid-length skirt gal, but it seemed so appropriate for the occasion; I really liked how the skirt fell on me, so perhaps I'll be wearing them more often.

How was your weekend?

Wedding Seat Cards (See Jane DIY)

I don't want to reveal too much of the crafts I'm doing before the wedding as I want some it to be a surprise for the guests.  That being said, I thought I'd share what I did for the seating place cards.  I'll share as much of the wedding as I can once it's all said and done (plus my cousin, Ben, who's the photographer will definitely be posting the pictures on his blog). 

Since the wedding is in Mexico, I wanted to play to the travel aspect of the whole affair, so I decided to make the place cards look like old luggage tags.  I bought the cards here, dyed them with coffee, and bought a stamp kit to name them with charcoal ink (note, the table number isn't on them yet--we haven't gotten that far yet!).  I used some bakers twine (like used in my invitations here) on them as well.  It was a simple craft and I can't wait to show you the end result once the big day arrives.

Have a great holiday weekend!

Emerald City (See Jane Wear)

Generra top (via Gilt), J Brand jeans, BR necklace, Rebecca Minkoff bag

If only I could actually wear a sleeveless top outside right now.  Sadly, there was a jacket atop this outfit when I went out in it a few weeks back.  I picked up this top on Gilt Groupe after deciding I needed some green in my closet.  I've never been a huge fan of the color, but I found it refreshing and surprisingly versatile (i.e. both work and play friendly) so maybe I'm onto something here.  Pardon the wrinkles on the top; I wore it immediately after I unwrapped it.  Whenever UPS stops by my house, it's like Christmas--when you wear everything as soon as you open it (does anyone else do that?).

Peanut Butter Banana Bread (See Jane Bake)

When I got home from work last night, some sad bananas I had bought the week before caught my eye.  Although I like them, I'm generally not inclined to reach for one as a snack and Eric was in Vegas all weekend so they just sat...untouched (his favorite, along with grapes).  Knowing that he wouldn't be eating four that evening before they turned, I was determined to make something out of them; I'm embarrassed to say that I couldn't think of what to make on my own.  As soon as I typed "banana" into Google, "banana bread" came up.  Ashamed that I didn't think of the most common banana recipe known to man on my own, I quickly forgot my feelings once I saw "peanut butter banana bread" pop up.  I ended up using Joy the Baker's recipe because not only does she make tasty things, she's hilarious to boot.

Life lesson: when you encounter less than fresh bananas in life (see above picture), make banana bread.

Urban Safari (See Jane Wear)

H&M jacket, c/o Alain Bella top, AE cargo jeggings, BR necklace, Chloe bag, UO sunglasses, Jeffrey Campbell boat shoes

I wore this outfit around town last weekend when the weather was actually decent (ah, memories).  I love neutrals and love to incorporate them into my outfits whenever possible.  Army green and dusty pink are unexpected neutrals and I think wearing them at the same time is a fun way to mix it up rather than donning my usual uniform of jeans when running weekend errands in this almost-springlike weather.  Also, a perfectly over-sized white shirt is a staple for any good weekend.

How was your weekend?

Behind The Lens (See Jane Thank)

Eric

When I first started this blog, I never anticipated that I would feature outfits of myself.  Once I eased into it and realized it was something I wanted to do, I needed someone to snap these shots of me.  Luckily, my fiance (then boyfriend) obliged and was willing to take a few minutes out of his day to snap a the photos.  He still does the majority of them today (we're still learning to work my camera...slowly but surely) and although I thank him for doing it, I really am grateful that he helps me out so often and supports my little hobby.  Also to thank is my sister, who recently moved to Chicago.  She's always willing to take some pictures of me and ultimately, I benefit, because she has an eye for photography and always displays the utmost patience with me.  Because she lives here now, I'll have to do another feature on her.  They're really the best and just wanted to give you some insight on the great people behind the lens.  Thus, I present to you:  a few pictures I've taken of them recently.

Emily

Speaking of which, Eric headed off to Vegas this weekend and Emily is going to visit my parents in Ohio so I might be lacking a photographer this weekend...

Have a great weekend!

About Town (See Jane Wear)

Zara top, Citizens of Humanity jeans (worn here), J Crew blazer (worn here), UO necklace, Dolce Vita wedges, Joes Jeans bag

Spring is so close, I can taste it.  You have no idea how nice it is to wear a t-shirt and jeans--especially this polka-dotted number.  It's  definitely versatile enough that I can wear it both to work and out for a night.  Example:  I wore this said tee and blazer last month on a chilly evening with skinny jeans and ankle boots.  To spring-ify the outfit, I added lightweight wide-leg jeans and wedges.   Yes, the blazer is wool, but have you been to Chicago in April?  Not so warm.

Little White Dress (See Jane Pick)

I'm in need of a white dress for my wedding rehearsal dinner.  I had my heart set on the Elizabeth and James Mackenzie dress in Ivory, but alas, it's sold out everywhere.  Time passed and I forgot about my search.  Once Alicia (who's getting married the weekend after me) asked if I found one yet, I realized that I didn't have that much time left to look!  Since the wedding is in Mexico, I'm looking for something effortless, but also pretty.  Also, I want to wear it again for our "home reception" which will take place in July back in Ohio for all the guests who can't make the trek south of the border.  One more prerequisite: I'd like it to look as good with these shoes as it does with a pair of fancy heels.  There are so many great dresses out there...I can't choose!

1. Graham & Spencer Skinny Strap Dress

2. Alice + Olivia Silk Wrap Effect Dress 

3. Mason by Michelle Mason Tiered Chiffon Dress

4. BB Dakota Alison Dress

What's your vote? (or feel free to send the link of others you like!)

Greek Pita With Tzatziki (See Jane Cook)

I love to cook--that should come to no surprise.  However, sometimes (particularly on weeknights) I need a simple and quick meal that takes little effort.  Once a pita is in the equation, the possibilities are endless; you stuff just about anything in them (take that as you will).

The chicken pita part is easy enough--no recipe needed.  I simply seasoned a chicken breast with salt, pepper, and cayenne (I love spicy), cooked it, chopped it, and stuffed it into a whole-wheat pita with arugula, tomatoes, feta cheese, and this tzatziki sauce.  Honestly, don't even make this if you aren't going to make the tzatziki--it's too good to pass up.  Tip:  if you can handle it, add some sriracha sauce to the tazatziki to continue on the spicy path! 

greek yogurt + olive oil = the beginning of tzatziki

one half down, one half to go

What's your go-to weeknight meal?

Sailor Take Warning (See Jane Wear)

Anthropologie shirt, H&M striped tank, J Crew (thrifted) shorts, Dolce Vita sandals, Ray Ban retro cat sunglasses

As promised on Friday, I didn't do much this weekend.  I actually ended up feeling a little under the weather which was ironic (or cruel, I can't decide) as it was the most beautiful weekend we've had in months.  I had grand plans of working on some wedding crafts, but ended up laying around most of the time (although, I did force myself to lay around outside when it was 80 yesterday).

Eric and I went to meet with our wedding officiant on Sunday for brunch and this is what I threw on.  You have no idea how nice (and unfamiliar) it felt to grab a pair of shorts and a tank top.  Don't worry, though, the cold weather is already making its way back in to the windy city.

How was your weekend?

The Great Indoors (See Jane Lay Low)

yellow ranunculus on my coffee table

I'm planning on laying low this weekend. Perhaps I'll be spontaneous and go out one night but as of now, my plans include some wedding crafts and other planning activities.  Who knows, though--I heard it was supposed to be warm on Saturday, so I can't promise that I'll stay in all weekend.

a glimpse of the banner i'm hanging at the wedding (hint: it's in spanish)

popcorn made with olive oil + kosher salt

Hope you all enjoy your weekend!

Jester's Court (See Jane Wear)

Andre J top (same brand as these shorts), H&M pants + belt, UO necklace, J Crew shoes, Ray Ban wayfarers, clutch - gift from friend

Everyone is loving the color-blocking trend this season--even this girl.  I wore this outfit out one weekend night and while I like it, looking back I realize that it's a bit jester-esque (seriously, google image "jester" and tell me if you don't laugh).  Regardless, I especially love these pants and have been wearing them nonstop--especially to work.  They're the perfect high-waist and they must be good because Eric looks at them with a bit of confusion ('why are they up so high?' he asks). 

I'll definitely be trying the color-blocking trend again--just perhaps with different pieces.  How about you?

Grapefruit + Avocado Salad (See Jane Make)

The best part about winter is that citrus fruits are in season.  I loved eating grapefruit for breakfast as a kid and I remember that my mom would keep a crate of them in the garage to in order to keep them cold (they took up too much room in the fridge).  Supposedly, winter is now over, but luckily, ruby red grapefruits are still ripe for the picking for a few more months and are as tasty as ever.  I used this recipe as a base which combines two of my favorite fruits (avocados are technically a fruit, no?); also, I added lettuce (I used Boston Bibb), red onion and toasted walnuts to make it a bit more substantial.  Note: the dressing may seem a bit salty at first taste, but it's actually supposed to be that way in order to offset the acidity of the citrus.  Trust me, once you taste it, you'll realize that it meshes quite well.

Pretty and healthy--what more do you need?

April Showers (See Jane Wear)

H&M blazer, BB Dakota lace top, Club Monaco skirt, Rebecca Minkoff bag (via Gilt), J Crew shoes (via eBay), UO sunglasses

I had a bridal shower this past Saturday and although temperatures were on the chilly side, I was determined to dress in spring clothes and lose the tights once and for all.  I wanted to wear something feminine and light, so I opted for soft colors and romantic fabrics like chiffon and lace.  The bridal shower was my first and it was so much fun (it was held at Jane's in Chicago...how appropriate!).  It was followed by my bachelorette party that evening where the fun continued long into the wee hours of the night.  I'm just so grateful to my friends and family for hosting and attending all the events on Saturday--I had such a great time seeing everyone and letting loose.  And, let's just say I rode a mechanical bull.

How was your weekend?