February 2012
8 posts
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Supercalifragilipstick!
I’m not much of a makeup wearer, but I’d like to be a lady who wears lipstick all the time. I have a stockpile of lipsticks that I wear for special occasions, but most days I use uncolored lip moisturizers. Not much fun, but I think I found a solution: Supercalifragilipstick! from Kate Spade. The shiny gold tube and the Mary Poppins reference are irresistible and fun. Bashful Blush...
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Happy Valentine's Day
Happy Valentine’s day!
Love,
Certain Ladies
ps - How cute is this card? It’s from Hello! Lucky
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The Friday Cocktail: Champagne
This is a short and sweet Friday Cocktail. It’s Valentine’s weekend: drink champagne. And if you can, make it an extra special bottle. Why not?
Cheers!
K
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New Favorite: Eberjey
I’ve been on the hunt for new undergarments — pieces that feel luxurious and ladylike. I was all set to go to the new Cosabella store in SoHo until a friend told me about Eberjey. I checked out their website, liked a lot of what I saw (real girls modeling, and great prices), and ended up making a pretty large order. Even though it wasn’t on my list, I threw the chemise pictured...
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Tinkering in the Kitchen: Kale and Avocado Pesto
While sitting on a conference call today I pondered my plans for dinner. I was really in the mood for something comforting and warm, perhaps a pasta? I thought about the things I needed to use up before they went bad: two perfectly ripe avocados, a big bunch of dinosaur kale, and a bag filled with rinsed and ready to go Italian parsley from a few weeks ago (this stuff stays fresh forever!)....
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The Friday Cocktail: or, Super Sunday Showdown
For many in New England and New York this Sunday is going to be an extremely important day. For many others this Sunday will be a day to gorge themselves on munchies and drinks. The perfect drink for the occasion is of course, a nicely chilled beer. Instead of our usual cocktail we’ve decided to suggest a few beers for the big game. To keep with the NE vs. NY theme, I’ve picked two...
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Remedy Quarterly
I picked up a random issue of Remedy Quarterly while browsing my favorite book store in San Francisco and I instantly fell in love. This happened about a year ago and I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to mention it (for shame!). The small publication includes fun writing, recipes for cooking, and “recipes for feeling good.” It’s also got a well designed cover...
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Los Angeles InstaEats
We here at Certain Ladies are big fans of Instagram. I try to make an effort to take snapshots of my meals when I can remember. Here are some of my favorite food photos I’ve snapped this month!
1-2/ Waterloo & City, 3-4/ Eva, 5/ BLD, 6-7/ Pizzeria Mozza, 8/ Canelé, 9/ Yabu
Follow @certainladies on Instagram!
H
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January 2012
18 posts
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Simple Nail Care: Butter London
Working in food is rough on your hands — between the hand washing and the dish washing, there’s no hope for your nails. After a long day in the test kitchen, I think a manicure is well-deserved. Unfortunately I don’t always have time to get them, and I don’t wear nail polish if I’m spending a lot of time in the kitchen so sometimes I can’t justify going to get...
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A Pop of Neon
It’s already in the 80s here in Los Angeles, so spring shopping is on my mind. In preparation for warmer weather, I am looking for little pops of neon to brighten up my neutral winter wardrobe. How great is the Equipment blouse with a neon collar? Or the Jil Sander oxfords with the neon soles? I’m all about neon this season!
H
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The Friday Cocktail: Aviation
When we started talking about this column, my mind immediately went to the Aviation. It’s one of my favorite mixed drinks. I first had it a few years ago as a bartender’s choice, and have been making it at home ever since. It’s a perfect excuse to buy Crème de Violette, which will last you forever because a little goes a really long way. Same goes for Luxardo maraschino...
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Four-legged Fashion
As much fun as it is to shop for new wardrobe items for myself, I have even more fun picking out clothes for my little gentleman, Mr. Weasley. With temperatures dipping into the low teens here in New England, my poor little west coast pup is finding it hard to adjust. He already has a pretty impressive selection including a toggle coat, a pinstripe parka and a tartan jacket, but who...
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New Rain Boots
After a good 4 years of tough love, my Hunter boots have given out on me. Today wasn’t exactly the best day to discover this since it was raining and I was running errands for work, but I’m quickly resolving the issue. I’m taking a leap and switching things up. I just ordered these Aigle boots I’ve been eyeing. Full disclosure: I saw them once online and thought they were...
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Certain Lady: Beyoncé
I love this song! I love this video! I love Beyoncé!
I know this isn’t exactly a new song, or video, but I’m still completely addicted. The Audrey/60s vibe really does it for me. Those brightly colored bodysuits with coordinated backdrops and that black and white hat are so good! She looks amazing in every one of these looks.
Thanks, Bey and a belated congrats on the new...
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The Friday Cocktail: Dirty Chai Toddy
I’m into being virtuous now that the holidays are over but it’s the weekend, and it finally feels like winter, so I want something kind of indulgent to take the chill out of my bones.
I’m taking another shot at bourbon — I’m convinced that it warms you up better than any other type of booze. And when it’s warm and mixed with a dirty chai (that’s chai...
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Spring Shoes
While it may still be chilly out, I’m looking ahead to Spring. I’m tired of my blacks and neutrals, and I want some color to brighten up my wardrobe. I’ve been a long time fan of Seychelles and BC shoes, and they have the perfect Spring shoes to liven up anyone’s closet. What shoes have been catching your eye for the spring time?
H
Seychelles Modest Heels
Seychelles...
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Worth Watching: How to Steal a Million
I recently watched this movie and completely fell in love with it. It takes place in Paris, so I’m already hooked. Audrey Hepburn is charming and her wardrobe is what my dreams are made of (as always). And then there’s Peter O’Toole — total dreamboat. It’s a Billy Wilder film so you’re in for a fun story, fantastic dialog, and loads of charm. I don’t...
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The Friday Cocktail: Aperol Mimosa
Well, it’s Friday and you know what that means…cocktail time! This week I’m continuing the citrus theme by adding a litte kick to your classic mimosa. I plan to drink this in the evening as an aperitif and then with brunch in the morning. I’m of the belief that any type of bitter is good for you, so this combination of ingredients is not only tasty, but healthy as...
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Geronimo Balloons
Geronimo Balloons is a Los Angeles based company that delivers balloons in the most whimsical way, with oversized balloons and streams that will brighten up any occasion. I think their balloons make the perfect addition to any birthday, celebration, or holiday. They have a special Valentine’s Day balloon delivery that is shown in the video below!
H
Video and images from Geronimo...
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Small Luxury: The Laundress & Le Labo
Now that I’m wearing tights all the time, I’ve decided I want to make the chore of hand washing them a little more luxurious. And I don’t think there’s any better way than this soap. The Laundress has been making fancy eco-friendly laundry detergent for years and this collaboration with Le Labo is my absolute favorite. I wear rose 31 perfume all fall and winter long. It...
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Noteworthy: Wine Etiquette
Cup of Jo is one of my favorite blogs. I’m sure I’m not alone in that — Joanna Goddard has she sweetest voice, and writes posts that appeal to every lady I know. This post on wine etiquette definitely answers any questions that might come up in social settings involving wine. Probably nothing you don’t already know, but it’s nice to see the rules all in one place....
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The Friday Cocktail: Rebujito
It’s a new year and it seems like we’re all trying to be a bit more mindful about what we consume. I, for one, am definitely over hearty, meaty dishes and warm, sweet drinks and am on to things that feel clean, light, and healthy. When thinking of what to drink this weekend I decided I needed to search for something fresh. Enter: The Rebujito. Lemon and bubbles are exactly what I...
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TechNotes: Code Year
In the era of technology, it never hurts to learn a little bit of coding. This year, easily accomplish your new years resolution to learn something new by trying Code Year. They have free weekly interactive programming lessons that you can do with your friends!
H
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French Revolution
I recently stumbled upon an adorable blog filled with delicious goodies! The site is FrenchRevolutionFood.com. After browsing the site for a bit I realized that I’ve seen Kerry’s posts on Huffington Post and Serious Eats. She has some great recipes inspired by a childhood spent cooking in her French mother’s kitchen.
On New Year’s Eve I made her recipe for braised lamb...
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With Economy and Grace
Inspired by Tamar Adler’s An Everlasting Meal, I’m setting an intention to cook with more economy and grace, and another one to appreciate my time in the kitchen more.
And what do I mean by “economy”? I mean that I am going to be more creative and less wasteful — if a recipe calls for egg whites, I’ll be saving the yolks to whip up aioli. I’ll never...
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New Year
Happy New Year!
Hope your New Year celebrations were nothing short of perfect. We’re looking forward to this year and are wishing you all the best!
A, H, and K Certain Ladies
Image via
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December 2011
20 posts
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The Friday Cocktail: French 75
I’ve previously written about my favorite champagne cocktails, but I felt the French 75 was worth revisiting just in time for New Year’s Eve! My first time trying this cocktail was at Mandrake in Los Angeles a year ago just before the new year, and I was instantly hooked! I love that this cocktail isn’t overly sweet, and just boozy enough with the addition of gin.
French 75
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Rules to Live By
We love Martha! I may have made that clear before, but I thought it was worth mentioning again.
There are many reasons to love this amazing woman, and you can add these tips to the list. Martha’s rules for “Household Preventive Care” are indeed words to live by. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” I believe this to be very...
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Glitter and Gold
I haven’t solidified my New Year’s plans yet. Is that bad? It seems like people plan this kind of thing in advance. I haven’t given much thought to how I’d like to celebrate, and honestly, I’d be perfectly happy staying home and maybe having a few friends over. I’ve decided that no matter what we do or where we end up, I am going to wear a dress and something...
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The Friday Cocktail: Bourbon Bramble
I’ve been convinced for a few years that bourbon was not for me. “It tastes so manly and stings on the way down” was my common complaint. While it certainly warms you up on a cold winter night, I’ve always passed on it. Enter the Bourbon Bramble from Saveur. A (of Certain Ladies) sent me the recipe a few weeks ago and since I had everything on hand, and I trust her taste,...
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TechNotes: Chefs Feed
Chefs Feed has been my favorite app for the last couple months. The concept is simple: the best chefs in each city recommend their favorite dishes at their favorite restaurants! I’ve been using it to help myself order at new restaurants, and it’s always fun to read a chef’s quick review about why they love a particular dish. Another great feature is the “Feed Me...
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My Favorite Beauty Gadget
I love my Clarisonic!
It seems that everyone has been talking about this gadget lately, and I’m here to confirm the hype. I’ve had mine for several years now and I actually forget about it from time to time. Sometimes it sits unused for a few months until I remember it’s there, and that only makes it more apparent that I should be using this thing regularly. With daily use...
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Noteworthy: Visit to a Paris Market
I came across this video last week and felt like I had to share it. David Lebovitz takes you through an outdoor market, picks up ingredients for a meal he’s planned, then makes cooking it look like a breeze. Doesn’t that sound dreamy? Maybe only if you’re really into food, or really into France. I’m really into both.
A glimpse of France and a promising menu will always...
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Christmas Playlist
I am fully in holiday mode these days, and one of the best ways to set the holiday mood is music. I’ve been listening to this collection of classics while baking and drinking hot toddies. Listen along and get in the spirit with me!
It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year - Andy Williams
All I Want For Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey
White Christmas - Bing Crosby
Last...
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The Friday Cocktail
It might go without saying that the ladies here enjoy a good drink every now and then. While a glass of wine goes well with dinner, and champagne is never a bad idea, sometimes a cocktail is more exciting. We all have our favorite spots for fancy drinks but sometimes we want to mix one up in the comfort of our own homes. Amateur mixologists that we are, we like to test different cocktail recipes...
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Creative Gift Wrapping
During the holidays, I like to spend my money on gifts rather than wrapping paper. So instead of the traditional paper with snowmen and reindeer, I resort to more creative methods. My favorite way to wrap gifts is with old catalog or magazine pages. This year I’ve been using old issues of Artforum to wrap my gifts. Here are some tips:
Pick pages that have contrasting visual elements or...
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Wish List: A's Colorful Picks
With my shopping for others complete, I’m now turning my thoughts back to things I wouldn’t mind receiving. I already have a list compiled of things I plan to buy for myself if Santa doesn’t bring them. Here are just a few:
Kate Spade Thermos, $35
Cuisinart Mini-Prep, $40
Kate Spade Living Colorfully book set, $35
J Crew bangles, $35
Marimekko coffee cup, $16
A
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Stocking Stuffers
I like to keep an ongoing list of great gift ideas so when this time of year comes, I’m not totally caught off-guard. Since it’s gift-giving season, I figured I’d share some of my list. I am excited to be giving some of these items as stocking stuffers, and would be just as happy to receive any of them.
L.A. Burdick Dark Hot Chocolate Hickory Wood Coasters A Shiny Bike Bell...
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A Perfect Winter Gown
Rachel McAdams is adorable all the time, but she is perfection in this silver backless Marchesa gown. This look would be perfect for an incredibly elegant and ritzy holiday party. I also imagine it would also make a stunning, and unexpected, wedding dress. How dreamy!
A
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Friendly Gifts
It’s my favorite time of the year, and part of that includes gifts! In the spirit of giving, here are some gift ideas for the ladies in your life that are both wallet friendly and aesthetically pleasing.
Steven Alan Shopping bag, $68 Lace glove, $20 Zodiac Mugs, $6 English Lit by Jane Mount, $20 Food Sign by Bryan Schutmaat, $20 Ferry from Ardrossan Harbor by Laura Bell, $20 tier 3 bowl...
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Charitable Giving
Although I try to give back throughout the year, the holidays are generally a time when we are reminded that giving a little extra can make a big difference.
I love buying gifts that make people happy and this is definitely one way to make that happen. In addition to the requested gift (godzilla figurines) my nephew asked for this Christmas, I gave to the Santa Barbara Zoo on his behalf. ...
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Cookie Party
I was thinking about hosting a big holiday party this year but I was slow to commit, and suddenly all the good dates and times have been claimed by other parties (that I am happy to attend). I’ve decided to host a very small cookie decorating party instead. It’s going to be a breeze compared to the fancy soiree I was thinking of having. The only hassle is that I don’t have...
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More Holiday Drinks!
…because it’s just that time of year.
I recently found the amazing Martha Stewart cocktail app for iPhone and iPad. For a few bucks you get 20 classic cocktails with 5 bar snacks to accompany them. Once downloaded you’re also able to access several other collections of drinks including holiday cocktails, modern cocktails, mocktails, summer cocktails, and even regional...
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The Winter Hat
I first started wearing hats during my time in New York, which was more out of necessity than personal style. I’d be the first to admit, that I am not considered a “hat person.” However, recently I’ve been expanding my collection from practical to personal. The Janis Hat from Steven Alan happens to fit both. Although it’s not particularly cold out here in Los...
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Paperless Post
I love a good hand written note. I can spend unhealthy amounts of time getting lost in a stationery store looking for the right cards or invitations. And while I do think nothing beats pen and paper, there’s an electronic option I’m a huge fan of: Paperless Post. You can design greeting cards or invitations any way you’d like; they can come in envelopes and you can even add...
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Gentlemanly Gifts
It’s that time of year when we rack our brains and browse sites for hours searching for the perfect gifts. I always find it hard to come up with unique gifts for the gentleman in my life, so I end up sticking to classics that he’s sure to love. If you need a few ideas to start your gift hunting this year, check out the tried and true brands below. From traditional New England prep to...
November 2011
18 posts
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Books for Fall
Fall is always my favorite book season — so many great titles are released during this time of year. There’s something about this season that turns me into a homebody in a big way. Suddenly I realize my apartment needs to be cozier so I change up the linens on our bed, drape my favorite wool blankets over the couches, start baking bread (because any excuse to turn on the oven and...
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Tea Forté
I was recently given a Tea Forté gift box for my birthday. Their tea infusers are neatly packaged and perfect for a no fuss no mess cup of tea. They have a large selection of teas and fun packages for gifts, but I think the most interesting of them all is the Tea Forté Cocktail Infusions! A creative way to add something different to your holidays this year.
H
(Image via Tea Forté)
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Greetings From: London!
I was recently in London for a bit and visited some great places and had a ton of excellent meals. I thought I’d share a list of my favorites. Here is my (rather belated) guide to noteworthy spots in London.
Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar at Harrod’s
This place is all about the atmosphere which is pure posh. The giant yellow 1950s style Veuve fridge and matching throw pillows made...
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Happy Thanksgiving
Today we are giving thanks to everyone in our lives! We hope everyone has a great day filled with family and friends eating a delicious feast.
CL
(image via Flickr)
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