FFF: YSL Arty Ring

I first laid eyes on this little masterpiece here in the great world of blogasphere over a year ago, and ever since it has been seducing me. The mere fact that it has a YSL label made it more alluring {Hi! I'm a label whore}. Although I was deeply crushing on this bad boy, it fell short in priority on my must.have.now list... and also hubby thought it was ugly! shocking! What the heck do boys know right!
For a year I maintained my crush until one day I saw Arty in person wrapped around another woman's finger! My crush immediately turned into lust! I couldn't believe how gorgeous and truly eye catching it is! Definitely a standout piece! I knew it had to be mine.
With our One Year Anniversary just around the corner, I knew this would be the perfect opportunity to convince hubby that this beauty belongs to me. Initially hubs and I agreed we would not get each other gifts for our anniversary because we're in the midst of planning a getaway trip this fall instead.... but lucky for me hubby just couldn't say no, and 2 weeks before our anni I received my Arty! love you babe! { I just had to add that}
Although I was torn between the pink, blue, and green glass stone, I chose pink because I knew it would look beautiful with my MOH dress for my bestie's wedding. But now I'm obsessively crushing on both the blue and green stone. Aaaahh, Christmas can't come any sooner ;)

Shop ZARA.com

I'm certain that all shopaholics and fashionistas were on their computer, laptop, iPad, iPhone {or whatever source of internet there is out there} yesterday to witness the launch of ZARA's e-commerce site in the US! Many of you probably also made your first ZARA online purchase! Unfortunately I have not yet. I'm going insane trying to decide my final item{s} for my check out cart. I think I've finally narrowed it down between either #4, #6, & #9 from my list below. I'm doing my best not to let all the excitement cloud my practicality by choosing only one {maybe 2} must have piece{s}.
How aaah-mazing is it to finally have this incredible store at a click of the finger. Happy Shopping everyone!
1. SHIRT WITH FEATHER PRINT $49.90
2. SKINNY TROUSERS $59.90
3. T-SHIRT WITH KNITTED LINING $49.90
4. LEATHER MINISKIRT $99.90
5. ANIMAL PRINT LOOSE BLOUSE $49.90
6. LEATHER JACKET $159.00
7. METALLIC THREAD SWEATSHIRT $35.90
8. DOUBLE-BREASTED COAT $169
9. SHEEPSKIN GILET $79.90
10. METALLIC THREAD T-SHIRT $25.90
11. BOYFRIEND COAT $89.90
12. JERSEY DRESS $59.90
13. SEQUINNED SKIRT $49.90
14. PRINTED SHIRT $49.90
15. FLAT SUEDE ANKLE BOOTS $79.90
16. COMBINED GLITTER BALLERINA $49.90

For all you mommies & daddies out there, ZARA's online shop also carries a fabulous children's line for ages 2yrs-14yrs!

fall footies

Hello Sweet September! I failed to give it the proper greeting last week! Normally I don't welcome September so kindly. I've always viewed it as the impending end to my summer days and the bitter start to chilly days & early gloomy nights. But this year is different. This year, September serves as a charming reminder of the day I said "I DO" to my man and the sweet days that followed.
Although summer is not officially over just yet, I'm already embracing fall...particularly these fall shoes:
1. Tory Burch 'Aaden' Tall Boots: the ultimate riding boots! must.have.now.
2. Sam Edelman 'Lyla' Pump: ankle straps, suede, and chunky heel... just the right combo of retro and femininity.
3. Jessica Simpson 'Bendie' Platforms: I just can't get enough of these that I need them for my fall collection too!
4. House of Harlow 1960 'Natalia' Platform Booties: last item to be checked off on my all things leopard list.
5. Hunter 'Original Short' Rain Boots: great way to stay looking chic while toughing out the rough weather.
6. Sam Edelman 'Louie' Booties: there's something so super cooool about these fringe low heel booties that make them a statement piece to any outfit.

And of course I can't forget about my Halima Suede Booties. I'll finally be strutting in these babies soon;)

Cha Cha Cheeetaaah!!!

Rebecca Minkoff Cheetah Clutch check! I'm relieved that I held on to that once of restraint that day because I was able to score a sweet deal the very next week. I'm so ecstatic that not only did I finally get my bag but I purchased it at a total of 60% less than the original price!!! Yeeaa pretty awesome!!! To maintain my high at that moment, I also bought the matching wristlet:D please excuse the clash between my outfit and the bag... it was what I had on when I purchased the bag and I was eager to take a picture with it... hehehehe:D

one year

A year ago today, life became a little sweeter as I married my best friend and my sweet he♥rt.

Sweet Glimpse: ♥Mr. & Mrs. Bautista ♥

Wishing the newly weds all the l♥ve & happiness in the world!!! {08.26.2011}

CC earrings revealed

I don't think I've ever been so excited to see Mr. UPS than I was 2 days ago. I was instantly aaahh-mazed how ultra chic the Vintage Chanel Quilted Black Large Round Clip-on Earrings truly are! I should really thank Ashlee Simpson for being the main distributing factor in my decision. After coming across this picture with her adorable pixie cut, the choice became evident!
I could not be happier with my pick!

MAC attack

I've been coveting a Rebecca Minkoff MAC Clutch for some time now, and luckily with our pending one year anniversary {one week and 4 days to be exact} it doesn't take much to convince hubby my need to have a new bag yet again.
During our trip to the mall this weekend, I had my ♥ set on expanding my all things leopard collection by walking away with the Rebecca Minkoff Cheetah MAC Clutch. But to my disappointment {absolutely crushed} Nordstrom sold out on the item not only in the store but also on their website {which was available just the day before}! Rudeness!!!
Staying true to my nature, I just could not leave the store empty handed so I happily settled for the classic black leather MAC clutch. I know, kinda boring but I just couldn't resist. The hint of tassles and gold hardware & removable chain gave the bag just the right sprinkle of bad-ass that I soo love! Besides you can never go wrong with black right!?!
Below are my top faves for the coming fall season: Although I love my new bag, the RM Cheetah Clutch is still haunting me even this very second! I found it available at Zappos and with my credit card in my hand I was ready to fully surrender to temptation. Normally I just let my impulses get the best of me, but with the expenses I have this week for my bestie & cousin's wedding {alterations, jewerly, shoes, hair, makeup, gift, & hotel room}, I knew I had to be practical. But even with practicalitly in mind, it still took every once of restraint I had from clicking the submit button. I guess I can wait until next week's payday... wink;)

Colossians 3-12

Words to live by...
"Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness & patience"

vintage CHANEL

For weeks now, I've been on a massive hunt for a serious pair of CHANEL vintage earrings. Who can ever get enough of those interlocking CC! I love how each piece epitomize the class that is simply CHANEL. Lately I prefer vintage over the CHANEL newer generations {both in bags & jewelry}. When it concerns investment pieces, timeless will always win over trendy!
After searching high and low and reviewing endless sites for their authenticity, I've narrowed down my choices to the 4 below and eventually made the ooh soo difficult decision of choosing just one!
Can you guess which pair will soon be dazzling my ears? HHhhhmmmm....I think I'm going to keep that as a little secret for now... well at least until Mr. UPS comes knocking on my door. Sorry for the teaser, but stay tune!

FFF: pretty pleats

There's just something about maxi skirts that automatically make an outfit look effortless and feminine... add pleats and vuala instant chic! I'm crazy gaga over this look, but being 5 feet tall I always had the hardest time finding one that fits without the inconvenience of having to get the length altered. So you can only imagine how over the freaken moon I was when I finally found one that was not only perfect in length but also in price!!! Yipeeee!!! {Skirt ^ from BAR lll $59.99}
I stepped aside from my usual summer brights and paired my pretty pleats with an ivory bandeau and a chambray button down tied at the waist... Perfect for yesterday's beautiful breezy night in NYC!

sprinkled with glam

I finally got my hands on Sephora's Opi "Only Gold For Me" topcoat. Can I get a woooot wooot!!! The first time I went to purchase this, the line at Sephora was way too long and I regrettably didn't have enough patience to wait... and every trip I made since then, it has been sold out!
Now at last it's mine! This clear topcoat has chunky & micro size glitters that gives any polish a touch of sparkle & glam without looking tacky. At first glance it may look overwhelmingly glittery, but once applied it's suprisingly very subtle. This will definitely be a repeat purchase.
Base color Over the Taupe and sprinkled with glam!

fashion = healthy !?!

Lately my appetite has been in full throttle! With a trip to the beach this weekend and my bestie's wedding in 2 weeks... this needs to stop immediately!!! Being 30, I'm fully aware that my metabolism is only going down hill from here! Although I never had the discipline to go on a real structured diet {actually I did do a cleanse once if that counts}, my goal is to dramatically cut back on all my consumption of fast foods and carbs. I've taken Mr. Lagerfeld's words to heart and re- motivated myself! After all, what's a greater motivator than looking and feeling good in the clothes you buy!
{Luckily for me I had Wendy's fries & nuggets with chili last night for dinner to keep my fast food cravings sustained for a little bit} Wish me luck!

{But is it just me or do those fries look delish !!!!}

movie date

Hubby's movie pick was Rise of the Planet of the Apes... certainly was not my first choice, I'd rather be watching Crazy Stupid Love, but today was hubby's choice. Either way I was just happy to be debuting my Tory Burch Stacked Logo Reva Clutch! Isn't she a beauty!

{Please excuse hubby's poo-poo face... I told him to smile and this is what he gave me! SMH!!}

BTW... The movie was unexpectedly really good! I've never watched any of the the previous films so I don't have much to compare it to, but James Franco is a genuinely talented actor and Freida Pinto {although she didn't say much} is ahhh GORGEOUS!!!

FFF: lockets

As a token of gratitude for just simply being an awesome auntie to my little munchkins, my sister generously gave me a gift card to one of my fave stores J Crew. I immediately made a dash to the store and went straight to the register with the Enamel Locket Necklace in hand. The combination of cobalt blue and the antique flare had me at hello! I've developed a mild obsession with all things lockets and knew this would make a great addition to my collection.

arm candy

I just love the massive upgrade that friendship bracelets have made this season!!! These childhood favorites are back and they are blingy-er than ever. I want stacks and stacks and stacks...I simply can't get enough!!!

Another beauty back on rotation is my Cartier Must 21 Two Tone Watch. This was an unbelievably generous gift from my parents for my 25th birthday {wow, has it really been 5 years?!?). After a new battery and polish, she looks flawless!

red + leopard = fierce

I've been crushing on all things red & leopard as of late. Surprisingly I don't own much of either one. Other than my Louis Vuitton Speedy in EPI Leather Red and my Tory Burch Reva Leopard Flats, it's very slim pickings in my closet. My goal is to start expanding my options for the upcoming fall season {Yikes am I really thinking about fall?!?}.
Not only is red and leopard bold on their own, but as a combo....they're nothing short of fierceness!!!!


1. Tory Burch Reva Flats in Leopard print: owned for 3 years and still my fave out of my 5 pairs of Revas!
2. Louis Vuitton Speedy in Red EPI leather: owned for 5 years and still looks spanking new. Great investment!
3. House of Harlow Aztec Bangle in Red: owned for 4 months and I've only worn it once... Definitely will be putting it more to use!
4. Tory Burch Stacked Logo Reva Clutch/ Cross body in Red: owned for 24 hrs.... thank you Kevin for the unbelievable discount!
5. J Crew iPhone 4 Case in Leopard: owned for 2 weeks! This is my 7th iPhone case in 1 year...yup my iPhone has it's own wardrobe! LOL!
6.Erica Anenberg Leopard Twosome Ring: sadly I don't own this ring:( but I'm in pursuit of finding something similar but without the price tag!
7. House of Harlow Cabochon Earrings in Red: waiting patiently for Mr. UPS! Hubby kindly bought me the black versions as I mentioned here, and every time I wore them I receive at least one compliment from someone. I knew I had to have them in red too!

from my makeup bag to yours

One of the million & one reasons why I just love this time of the year is my summer tan! Tans immediately ooze the illusion of being skinner, healthier, and happier. Noo I'm not talking about a Snookie tan...no offense but YUCKSTER!
Right now my tan is exactly where it should be, leaving little room for the need for makeup {but I like to always make room}. My daytime make up routine has been narrowed down to 5 basic essentials that leave my face looking natural with a sprinkle of glow.

1. Dior Addict Lipsticks: I'm officially addicted!!! The packaging itself speaks volume, in fact it was the first thing that caught my attention even before I read any reviews 3 months ago. The application is so light and smooth, it almost feels like a lip balm. The color palettes range from sheer to very pigmented with over 40 shades to choose from!!! I literally spent an hour trialling and deciding which shade would be my first purchase {Miss Dior}. And the very next day, I went back to Sephora and bought 2 more {Rock n' Roll & Lip glow}.
1.Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm: this is not your regular lip balm! Not only does it provide moisture and sun protection, it also "responds to the color chemistry of your own lips to create a shade uniquely yours". This is definitely the holy grail of lip balms.
2.Miss Dior 343: natural nude pigmentation
3.Rock n' Roll 750: slightly sheer with a pinkish red tone

2. Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara: I'm always on the search for the perfect mascara, and after hearing great raves about this, I had to immediately try for myself. Results>>> Nothing short of amazing!!! The bristle are aligned precisely separating each lash to perfection and allowing for maximum length and volume!!! Oh and minimum smudging!

3. NARS Orgasm Blush: This is probably the most universally flattering and popular blush out there. Need I say more???

4. Laura Mercier Mineral Illuminating Powder Candlelight: "imparts a natural, healthy glow with the help of pure pearl powder and a rich Gemstone complex of diamonds, emeralds, and other precious and semi-precious stones. The Gemstone Complex captures and reflects light—making it the perfect complement to eyes, cheeks, or face. The formula's weightless texture provides sheer coverage and a radiant soft-focus effect that perfects any look." All that goodness in a 0.34 oz container... and it will last you forever {I had mine for nearly 2 years now and not even half way done}! Definitely the icing on the cake after applying my make up.

5. Laura Mercier Press Mineral Powder {Classic Beige}: this is my numro uno, my creme dela creme, can't live without beauty product/ makeup. It's my secret weapon against all evils {the sun, redness, blemishes, paleness}. It absolutely zaps away any hint of oil and leaves your face looking flawless.

hello friday

In honor of Friday but more importantly payday... I present to you my personal take on KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON....

L O V E

I'm extremely delighted that my L O V E Candy in Silver poster from MadeByGirl has finally arrived. I'm a huge fan of the very talented Jen Ramos of MadeByGirl. Not only is she artistically gifted, but her taste in interior design and in fashion is impecable!
I couldn't possibly resist when she blogged about her new L O V E print being on sale! Luckily I acted swiftly because unfortunately this particular print is now currently sold out! Although it is a very simple & bold print that can probably be easily duplicated by anyone, I'm all about having the original product! Next step is now finding the right frame to showcase it in.


Don't forget to check out her Cocoa & Heart Gallery where original paintings by hers truly are up for grabs! I cannot wait to get my hands on one of her small paintings of COLOR {multiple colors of brush strokes}. But due to popular demands, they are also currently sold out! Booooo!

Thursday fun~day

Soaking in the summer heat....

beat the heat

I l♥ve me some summer time, but this week has just been holy hotness, with no signs of cooling down!!! I prefer my summer days to stay perfectly nested in the 80s. Unfortunately living in Jersey you get the extremes of all four seasons, winter nights that drop into the one digits and summer days reaching into the 100s. With this sweltering heat & humidity, my appitite has dwindled {thank goodness} leaving me craving mostly for cool, light, refreshing, & mouth watering treats:)
beat the heat with these yummies:


1. Venti Shaken Ice Green Tea (Sweeten): my current love at Starbucks!
2. Panera Bread Fuji Apple Chicken Salad: "All-natural citrus-herb chicken, field greens, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, pecans, gorgonzola cheese, apple chips and a white balsamic & Fuji apple vinaigrette." It's pure deliciousness but minus the red onions & tomatoes!
3. Melona Ice Cream Bars: heaven I tell you! Savory creamy treat on a stick! {our freezer is filled with boxes of these}
4. Lychee Jello Cups: Yummster!!! These are insanely addicting especially when frozen!
5. Mangos: hands down my favorite fruit all year round!
6. Red Mango : healthy served in an invigorating mix of frozen yogurt sprinkled with your choice of toppings, but I like mine loaded with fresh strawberries, mangos, and mochi!
7. Blue Moon: Nothing beats a nice cold beer garnished with a slice of orange!

adventures in babysitting

Hubs and I had a fun-filled weekend enjoying the adventures of babysitting. Although technically hubby & I were never left alone with the kiddies for more than an hour, I was more than happy to relieve my sister & brother -in -law of all baby duties during our time there {a much needed break for the both of them I assume}.
When it comes to new borns, I'm proud to say that I have bundles of experience under my belt. But between baby Jack and my extremely rambunctious 4 year old nephew Leo, I'm left utterly exhausted! After being attacked by dozens of Nerf bullets, bottle feedings & diaper changes every 2 hours, being pooped on, Auntie P this and Auntie P that, I'm glad to report our plans of being parents one day has not been tainted.
Although hubby was shamelessly the ring leader of the Nerf battles and has an absurd phobia of poopy diapers, it's undeniable that he would make an inconceivably amazing father.

work - shop

Spending my Friday night helplessly stuck at work and doing some online shopping {and blogging!!!}. Now that's my kind of work!!! With my trusted iPad at my side, I've been able to scoop out some great summer sales & score some incredible deals with the effortless click of a button. I wish all work nights were this productive;)

1. J Crew Shirred Ruffle Bandeau Top in Bright Dahlia on sale for $29.99: modern vintage with a touch of sexy! A sweet pair up with the item below.

2. J Crew Chambray Pier Shorts on sale for $24.50: these shorts are just too cute for comfort! Perfect for a day at the beach.

3. LuLu's Pretty Girl Rock Lace Black Shorts for $34.50. Although this item was not exactly on sale, it's still priced at a great bargain. I have been on the hunt for the perfect lace shorts... I hope the fit doesn't disappoint.

4. Tory Burch quilted nylon soft small cosmetic case on sale for $53: contemplated between choosing the yellow/brown or the classic black/brown... In the spirits of summer, I opted for the yellow:)

5. Aldo CRIER Platforms on sale for $29.98!!! How can you possibly say no!

6. House of Harlow 1960 Black Resin Hexagon Ring on sale for $37.99: I have just the right pair of earrings to match it with;)

7.Opi Nail Polishes on sale for $7.99 buy one get one 50% off: imagine my delight when I walked into the gift shop at work & discovered this awesome deal! I knew right then & there that I was going to have a great night! {I couldn't walk away with just 2}

Y + C Wedding Shower 07-09-11

Yvonne & I have been dearest & bestest of friends for as long as I can remember. I can ramble on & on about years of unforgettable memories & countless laughs & tears, but think I'll savor those moments for my MOH speech lol! But I will say that when it comes to style & taste, Yvonce {as what we like to call her} & I are undoubtedly in-sync! She has a sweet flare for details and craves for only the prettiest of things. There was no doubt that whatever I presented had to be beyond exceptional. After all, a fabulous girl deserves only the most possibly fabulous wedding shower!
One element the bride-to-be had requested was a vintage themed couple shower. As you all know vintage is one of my fave ingredients when it comes to anything and couldn't wait to whip up something delicious. My inner Martha Stewart has been insanely itching for this day to come.
First task was choosing the right invitation. Choosing the right one is essential because it serves as the perfect blender in mixing and presenting the overall theme of the party. After viewing what seemed like countless invitations, Kim {one of the 3 gorg MOH} & I narrowed it down {with Yvonne's stamp of approval of course} to a simple invitation that exudes the theme to perfection.
With the invitations checked off the list, I immediately started stalking my favorite blogs for inspirations and came up with endless ideas! Luckily Yvonne was in absolute agreement & loving everything! Phew!!! Lol! We gathered some of the gals {Kim, Kat (MOH),& Jess (bridesmaid)} and had a sweet DIY party where we began preparing for the big day. From lace trimmings on chalk boards to decorative buttons on pinwheels, no details were left unturned.
With only an hour & a half to set up before the guests started arriving, everyone began working on their delegated task {including the bride to be}, leaving myself in charge of the grand dessert table of course! Everyone worked extremely well together and did an incredible job. I put my ♥ into planning this shower as if it was my very own and there is nothing more simply satisfying then to see everything fall perfectly into place.

Leslie Lana Photography captures the exquisiteness of Y+ C Wedding Shower!
An evening filled with Sweet Love!!!
******stay tune for photos from the talents of AIM PHOTOGRAPHY!!!