Links of the Week: June 30th

Hello there! Here's some reading to keep you occupied for the remainder of the weekend.

Why don't women say they are ambitious?

I think this drink would make a nice addition to a menu for the upcoming holiday weekend.

These great illustrations would make a nice addition  to a gallery wall.

These shoes would fit perfectly with my favorite color combo of the moment (black and white).

Love this necklace DIY.  Maybe I'll try it.

Have a Spotify subscription? Here are some great tips on how to use the music app

Real advice on a tough subject.

4 herbs that add healing power to meals

If you are in need of style inspiration or want to hone in on your personal style this season, check this out.

Are you in Philly and looking to learn a new skill or hobby this summer?  Check out these cool classes.

Have a great day!

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Decor Inspiration: Terrariums

I would like to add more greenery to my home this summer.  A terrarium would be the perfect way to do so since I live in a small space. Here are a few terrarium options that caught my eye.

1. Anthropologie Terrarium Kit // 2. Pottery Barn Hanging Clear Glass Mini Terrarium // 3. Urban Outfitters Faceted Terrarium // 4. West Elm Glass Terrarium, White Wood Base // 5. West Elm Wire Terrarium // 6.  Urban Outfitters Turning Triangles Terrarium //

Summer Reading List

Summer Reading List: (1) Americanah (2) And the Mountains Echoed

So my summer reading list is pretty short this time around.  This is not to say that I won't read more than two books this summer, but I'd like to set an achievable goal.  I was contemplating adding World War Z to my list, but who am I kidding, I'm just gonna see the movie.  I'm also still waiting for a copy of Lean In which was on my last reading list to become available at my local library (I'm currently 135 on the list...).   An update on what I've read recently will follow soon.  Happy Monday!

What are you planning to read this summer?

Links of the Week: June 23rd

Hope you are enjoying the first offical weekend of the summer!

Here is some reading material to keep you occupied for the remainder of the weekend.  

I'm still on my yellow kick, I'd like to add this to my apartment.

This fun watch would add a cheerful pop of color to my work outfits.

I would like to add a couple of easy maxi dresses to my closet for weekends, I'm currently feeling this one.

Exclusivity on the Internet.

Are you Philly based and interested in building your own blog/ website?  Check out this great class.

Packing for summer vacation with one little black dress, I'm both alarmed and intrigued by this...packing like this would definitely test your remixing skills.

One woman describes her reasons for shifting her career and taking an internship at age 30.  Would you do it?

I've always liked Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but I like him even more after reading his list of things he wish he'd known at age 30.  I am very near the age of 30 (whoa!),  so expect to continue to see links that revolve around reaching this age during the next several months.

I'd wear this corset top with a maxi skirt large hoops and an arm full of bangles.

I hope to see this exhibit described here while I'm in NYC for the remainder of the weekend.  If I don't make it I have (yet another) reason to come back soon).

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Peplum + Mint

Top: Target (similar); Skirt, dyed w/RIT Dye: F21 (similar); Heels: Target; Clutch: It's Vintage Darling DC; 
Necklace: borrowed from Mom; Earrings: Buffalo Exchange

When I first started seeing peplum silouettes appear in fashion media and blogs, I decided too quickly that it was a trend that doesn't work for my size and height right along with harem pants.  I'm still on the fence about the harem pants, but I've definitely changed my mind about the peplum.  Now that I've been on the peplum bandwagon for a while,  I'm on the hunt for a peplum dress that can be worn in the office.  Until I find that dress, I'll give wear this monochromatic peplum look.

Links of the Week: June 15th

Happy Saturday! Here is some reading material to keep you occupied for the remainder of your weekend.  

I need these bangles in my life.

I'm in need of a versatile summer hat, I like this one.

Summer storm essentials (so timely!)

To my fellow late twenty-somethings: feeling out-of-sorts?  Maybe your going through your Saturn Return.

I don't think I'd actually buy this mug, but the cat-lover in me had to link to it.

Currently listening to this (via Gala Darling)

To keep young professionals in Philly, fix the schools.

Style vs. Clothing

These tanks and tees are cute

Justin Timberlake-inspired nail art


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Style Profile: Burgundy Whispers

Images via Jacqui of Burgundy Whispers

This edition of Shen's style profiles is by Philly-based fashion blogger and illustrator, Jacqui of Burgundy Whispers.  Jacqui brings her artistic flair to her stylish looks in her outfit posts. I am a fan of her Tastemakers illustration column where she features cool artists, musicians, and trendsetters and explains what makes them stylish.  Now on to the interview!

Shen Dove: What is the story behind your blog name?

Jacqui: My blog, Burgundy Whispers was based on my new closet space in my new home. The walls are painted a rich burgundy, maroon color. Every time I walk into the room, it's as if it's speaking fashion to me, through "whispers!"

Shen Dove: How would you describe your personal style? 

Jacqui: I don't really like to confine myself to one specific style because how much fun is fashion if you don't experiment? I guess if I had to pinpoint three words to describe myself, they would be feminine, bohemian, and edgy!

Shen Dove: What trends or styles are you excited about wearing this summer? Are there any items on your wish list? 

Jacqui: This summer seems to be very fashion forward with the saturated, bold colors, minimalism and print on print styles. I'm excited to try all of them and interpret them in my own way! For my wish list this summer, I'm craving bright printed blazers, high waisted shorts, and fabulous silk trousers.

Shen Dove: Tell me about what inspired you to include your illustrations on your blog. How did you get started with illustrating? 

Jacqui: I tell people that my blog is like a virtual portfolio of my work, what I do and what inspires me. I went to college for illustration and graphic design, so naturally it just felt right to include my own images. I've been drawing since I came out of the womb, art is a daily essential for me!

Shen Dove: What are some of your favorite local shops and restaurants? 

Jacqui: When it comes to shopping I'm mostly an online shopper, it's just much easier and hassle free! When I do go shopping, in person I like to hit up J.Crew, Kembrel, Anthropologie, American Apparel and Zara. My fave online destinations are Threadsence.com, Nastygal.com, and gilt.com. I love Philadelphia for it's fabulous collection of cuisines! Some of my favorite restaurants are Mixtos, Giwa, and Minar Palace. Can you tell I love spicy food?!

Shen Dove: What do you like most about blogging and being a blogger in Philly in particular?

Jacqui: What I like most about blogging is the networking and connections that I've been able to create. Blogging has improved my ability to socialize, I used to be quite the shy person! I've made some valuable friendships over the last year that I truly treasure. Blogging has also taught me about how to market and present myself, all good traits for a budding freelancer! Being a blogger in Philadelphia is quite a great thing, everyone is so helpful and informative. No one, at least not anyone that I've met is arrogant or condescending and I have met bloggers from other cities and states that were quite uppity about their "trade secrets." Philadelphia truly is the City of Brotherly Love!

Shen Dove: Thanks for the interview Jacqui!  Be sure to check out Jacqui's blog and Tweets for her latest fashion updates, fashion event coverage and illustrations! 

Decor Inspiration: Yellow Accents

I enjoy wearing the color yellow, but I also think dashes of yellow in home decor, furniture, and walls are fun ways to update your home for the season.

Here are a few yellow items I'm currently coveting.

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 //

{images: from my "for the home" Pinterest board}

Links of the Week: June 8th

Happy Saturday! Here's some reading material to keep you occupied this weekend.

Here is a summer head wrap idea I will definitely try. 

Plan your perfect summer bucket list.

Stop female competition.

The art of being a goal getter. 

What 10 minutes of meditation can do for you.

I'm gonna give making breakfast smoothies a try this month starting with this one.

I rarely wear shorts, but if I were gonna buy a pair, I'd consider these.

Say something nice to yourself today and everyday!

Does anyone else's Husband/Dad/Grandfather/Uncle still carry real around a real handkerchief?  If so, here is an easy DIY to make in time for Father's Day.

Looking for something to do in Philly this weekend?  Go check out this film or attend this festival. 



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Red Accents

Dress: swapped; Jacket: Gap Kids (similar); shoes: Retrospect Vintage; 
Clutch: purchased in San Francisco; Earrings: Top Shop (old)

I'm still evaluating what wardrobe editions I want to add for the summer, but in the interim, I'm getting use out of current items I own and love like this simple dress, clutch and shoes.  I'm a big proponent of wearing what works for your body type and simple dresses or skirts with an A-line cut work for me.

What styles do you rely on wearing often? 

Currently listening to: Love Hate Thing by Wale
Book of the Moment: Kinky Gazpacho by Lori Tharps

Summery White

Dress: Marshall's; Shoes: Loft; Clutch: Francesca's; Watch: Francesca's; 
Necklace: Eastern Market vendor (Washington, DC) 

 It's unofficially summer and nothing feels more like summer than wearing a white dress. Last week, I attended an all-white party hosted by Jessie Holeva.  Other members of Philly FABB were in attendance as well.  The party celebrated the grand opening of Deneen Marcel Lashes located at 525 S. 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147.

It was a lovely event and white was the perfect color to wear since it took place during the steamy heatwave Philly experienced last week.

Let's make this week a great one!

Photos by Chaucee Stillman of Streets and Stripes

Links of the Week: June 1st

Happy Saturday!  Here is some reading material to keep you occupied this weekend.  I hope it's sunny where you are today because it's definitely sunny (and hot) here in Philly.  Have a lovely weekend!

One blogger's journey to New York and because I have New York on the mind apparently, here is a New York Apartment Guide.

Win a trip to the Essence Festival.

On body image and self worth

As usual for this time of year (okay any time of year), I have shoes on the brain.  I'm currently loving these sandals and these too.

I will definitely try this 30 Day Ab Challenge during the month of June!

Can everybody wear shorts?  I say Yes!

These photos make me want to hop on a plane and wander around Amsterdam (on a bike).

Are you in Philly and looking for something to do this Sunday? Check out the Philly Edition of the Brooklyn Flea.

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