Want it: Mara Hoffman Resort 2013

Ever since I've been dabbling in the racks of my favorite local swimwear boutique, Ophelia, I've been absolutely star-struck and heartsie-eyed over Mara Hoffman's resort wear for 2013. I'm having a serious moment with tribal print, and her pieces indulge my every desire for bold graphics with native influences.

In a perfect world, I'd throw this beauty on for a long lazy day at the beach—this print is insane in person.

Or, if I were headed to the beach club instead, this bandeau suit with the most precious sweetheart neckline and a three-strap back is perfect for sitting out in the sun poolside.

And then I'd don this tie back cut-out dress for a casual dinner with friends and sunset drinks.

More Mara, more Mara—here's to wishing. Check out the whole stock here.
xoxo

Happy {Friday Finds} Weekend

I'm not a superstitious person. Or, I tell myself I'm not a superstitious person. When a black cat passes my car, I won't deny that I flinch a little. I only walk under ladders if I absolutely must. And on Friday the 13th, I'm extremely cautious (probably an indication that I could stand to be a little more cautious every day). Which would be today. Nonetheless, it's Friday and that means it's going to be a good day despite that pesky little odd number attached to the most celebrated day of the week. So in an effort to promote a fabulous Friday, how about a few Friday Finds for you?
The simplest of ways to dress up wrapping paper: neon polka dots. Roll out the paper, proactively paint the dots, then roll back up for an instant update to any gift-giving occasion.

BFrend Bracelets via MadebyGirl. Would love to get my hands on these to stack with my Michael Kors watch.

My weekend manicure—yellow tips. A subtle pop of color, although I've been told it's better to leave it up to a professional then try and make it happen yourself.

I need this painting for my bedroom right. this. second. (My birthday is in two and a half months for anyone listening.) Until then, it also comes in an iPhone case.

A fun update for your market bag—neon paint—via Harper's Bazaare. The perfect pop of color on the beach.

Perhaps one of the most perfect vanities I've ever seen in my life. A girl can dream...

And I'm off for the weekend, to finish a few articles for the upcoming issue of VIE, attend a get-together or two, and embark out on the water for a nautical adventure tomorrow. I'll also be waiting for two memoirs to come in from Amazon (Paris Was Ours and Vicky Tiel's fashion/socialite reflections), as I'm longing for a lazy Sunday on the sand in the sun. Sounds like a dream to me.
Happy Weekend! xxx

Putting Neon On

I'm all over this neon trend right now. I picked up my first serious piece of neon (by serious, I mean not worn to an 80's theme party) two years ago when J Crew started featuring the colors amidst their v-neck tees. Flash forward a few months and a pair of neon green Sam Edelman t-strap sandals I wear with everything later, and neon is one of the hottest trends on the market. Always looking to incorporate trends into my existing wardrobe (until I find a billionaire to marry and pay for my shopping hobby), I've had my eye out for fun pieces of neon jewelry that don't break the bank, but are expertly crafted enough to withstand a little wear.

Cue: Bauble Bar.
Bauble Bar has been my first stop in jewelry selection for a while now, but after seeing a segment on my morning addiction, The Today Show, on neon jewelry, I was at my laptop so fast my coffee almost drenched my settee. Searching for a few neon accents of your own? Have a look at my faves:

But I can't end this post without giving credit to Bauble Bar for one of the most fun pieces I've seen this season: the fresh and slightly comical Twitter handle necklace. Cough, my birthday is in June. And you can follow me on Twitter—@FromAinsley.

Check out Bauble Bar's entire neon selection here. 

Happy Wednesday—you're halfway there! xoxo

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

Everyone loves a good gift guide. And me? I love a good stocking stuffer. My stocking is the first thing I go for on Christmas morning, digging deep into my needlepointed stocking that hangs above the fireplace to pull out the little happies that I'll use year 'round. So whether you're looking for a few stocking stuffers to add to your own wishlist, or maybe just a small gift for a friend or co-worker, perhaps one of these items that are on my radar for the holiday season will do just the trick.

1. A new iPhone case. Who doesn't want their phone to be protected in these dots?

2. This fabulous cocktail ring. To adorn a naked left hand, perhaps?

3. These beautiful recovered vintage books would be great on any bookcase or stacked on a sidetable.

4. Much chicer than my business cards, these calling cards would be perfect for a cell and blog address. And don't you love the type font?

5. I've been looking around for a monogrammed catch-all tray for jewelry and such, and this one (in gray, yellow, and white for my preference) fits the bill perfectly. (Warning: may not actually fit in stocking.)

6. This J.Crew bangle. I'm a bangle girl (stacked all the way up my arm) and this one would add some punch to a gold or silver arm party.

7. Don't laugh at me, but I'm recently a huge fan of the Viva La Juicy super girly scent. I'm a scents girl- I like to mix it up on a daily basis, and this is just the scent for a sweet smelling day. 

8. Another scent, but this time just a light dusting powder for after a shower or for a quick freshening up. This line is divine- my mom and I are both huge fans.

Any other ideas out there? I, of course, will stay on the lookout.

xoxo

Wish List: Most Wanted

November is unofficially the month of making Christmas lists. Am I right or am I right? I'm currently participating in No Shop November in order to save up for my seasonal gift-giving, so a wish list of sorts is naturally built as I see things that catch my eye. My most wanted for this season?
The Nikon 1 J1. Specifically with the two lens wide angle supplemental kit, but I wouldn't be picky seeing as that's getting a bit pricey.

Why? I'd really like to incorporate more original photography on this here little site as we continue to grow a bit more together. I do so many interesting things with the job I'm so lucky to have, and live in one of the most beautiful places in the whole world. Caring is sharing, and this would be an investment for my future, right? (how's that for a reason?)


Another something on my radar: the leather Tory Burch Reva flat in taupe.

Why? Because my black patent ones just officially bit the dust. Given, they lasted a solid four years, so I feel this is another solid investment. And taupe goes with everything.

I'm also on the hunt for a sleek, modern yet inexpensive writing desk and a new rug for my living room. The search for options is on.
 Looks like I may have to give myself a few gifts this year...