cozy reading nook

Maybe it's because is freezing in my office, or because I was awake until 2am after drinking my first coffee in two months at four in the afternoon yesterday. Such a bad idea!

Maybe it's because, even though it was beautiful when I came to work, it is now drizzling and dark.

socks, sweater, top, mug, scarf, book

Whatever the cause, I am feeling a little down and a little sleepy today.

I really just want to be someplace warm and cozy, snuggly, with some tea and reading a good book.

Don't you?

Right now I am reading The Child in Time by Ian McEwan, who you may know, also wrote Atonement. I love the way he writes. He's very wordy and a little dry, but I like that. He really gets into the psychology of the characters, too, which I love. His characters are so believable and alive.

I would much rather be in my room at home curled up with my book.

Alas, c'est la vie. I had a long weekend which I enjoyed very much, so I should just be happy with that, no? :)

-A.

summer... wear art thou?

GEDDIT? . . . because it's a fashion post. . . ?

I know, I know. . . . I'm sleep-deprived. Forgive me. 

Anyway, Here are two items I am dreaming of: 

dress, shoe

I may pick them up soon but . . . like . . . it's frigid out! So having this beautiful dress hanging in my closet might only make me very sad that it's still winter (and a harsh winter at that!). 

We'll see. 

What do you think?

Last year I bought similar sandals from Aerosoles, but they fell apart! Maybe $65 isn't much to spend on shoes these days, but it's still a lot. I would still appreciate if they didn't fall apart, ya know? :)

Peace,
-A.

a new ruche outfit i will soon own!

I am so, so excited because my incredibly thoughtful sister, Miranda, gave me a very generous gift certificate to Ruche for Christmas!

Last week I had to have surgery (ugh!) and was confined to my bed for a few days. She sent it a little early so that I could have something to do while I rested. Isn't that sweet? :) I was so surprised and so thrilled!

As you already know, I love just about everything on Ruche so it was hard to pick what I wanted to buy and I'm aways very indecisive when it comes to spending gift certificates. I picked out a few items while stuck in bed, but I decided to wait and think on it.

blouse, skirt, socks, shoes

I'm so glad I did because they are having a 15% off promotion today and tomorrow, so I thought it might be a great time to pounce. Also, those adorable shoes just arrived today! I scooped up these four items and I can't wait until they arrive!

I thought this might be the perfect Valentine's Day date outfit. Valentine's Day is my favorite holiday. I will probably say that about every holiday, but V-Day is definitely top 3!

Thanks Miranda! <3

-A.

ruche love & december outfits

I've said it before (maybe) and I'll say it again: I am not a wealthy girl. But hey, I live in New York City, so I'm doing okay. I just have to find alternative (and free) ways to get my kicks. Sometimes I get mine window shopping.

I window shop on Ruche quite frequently. I already think about one day having cause to purchase one of their really lovely and affordable wedding gowns. That's a long way off, though, of course :) but a girl came dream...

Their day-to-day stuff is equally as magnificent though, which is why I love them so much! Here are two outfits I picked out with items I found exclusively at Ruche! And here they are:

Clockwise, from top right: necklace, purse, skirt, shoes, top

I am dying to add that plaid skirt to my wardrobe. I recently became aware of how excellent midi skirts are. Mini skirts are great. Maxi skirts are lovely. But midi skirts are the tops.

Clockwise from top right: clutch, earrings, dress, shoes, shawl

And, I never thought I'd have a place in my heart for faux fur, but I also just really, really adore the Paddington shawl. It just looks so classy and soft and comfy and warm and . . . well, you get the idea.

I can imagine wearing the second outfit to a really fancy dinner or a really fancy show, after having worn the first outfit during the day, visiting bookstores and holiday markets and drinking coffee and eating scones.

Mmm... scones.

What's your favorite shop at which to gaze longingly through the window (or computer screen)?

-A.