C.Z. Guest

The 10 Lessons I Learned From My Mother, C.Z. Guest, by Cornelia Guest for Town & Country.

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1. Manners - She taught me that manners are one of the most important things in life. 

2. Your Handbag - My mother never carried a big bag, especially at night. 

3. Stay Fit and In Shape - The two of us loved to walk and play tennis together. 

4. Own Lots of Dogs - Dogs are great company, and always keep you laughing and smiling.

5. Learn How to Make a Great Bloody Mary 

6. The Guest List - When hosting a party, always mix up the group you have invited - it makes it more fun. 

7. Leaving a Party - You should always elegantly leave a party without breaking it up. 

8. Chocolate Chip Cookies - One should always have chocolate chip cookies around. 

9. Bring a Jacket - One should always be prepared. I never leave home without a jacket.

10. And Most of All, Remember to Laugh and Love - It keeps you young. 

(via Town & Country)

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breakfast to go ... or stay

This week has been a LONG one. Lots of late nights finishing projects for work and trying to get my fall calendar in order. It's amazing how many things kick back into gear come September - and so far there is no sign of anything slowing down soon. I think I am 'booked' nearly every weekend through the end of October. Phew. I am worn out already!

It hasn't helped that my phone is on the permanent fritz and has been shutting off for 18-24 hour intervals over the past month. It has gotten progressively worse and is such a hassle. Granted, I don't dislike being on a "tech sabbatical" (ask any of my friends from college), but this is a getting to be ridiculous. 

In the midst of all of this craziness, something as simple as spending a couple of hours in the morning morning sipping a hot beverage and eating a croissant sounds more than ideal - just the perfect relaxation. Granted I am not the best at 'relaxing,' I usually try to do a gazillion things at once (you should see me 'watch' TV). BUT -  if Paris was thrown into the equation, ultimate relaxation might be doable :)

Here's to the weekend, long morning coffee breaks, necessary sweet treats, and dreams of Parisian cafes - or whatever relaxation suits your fancy! 

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Tommy Hilfiger does the Preppy Handbook

So obsessed with these ads by Tommy Hilfiger. What a great way for the Preppy Handbook to come back to life!! Not only are the looks fabulous, but the write-ups are especially witty. Which prep stereotype do you channel?I think the Social Chair (Mrs. H) is a shoe in for Twirling Clare :)

Toodles!

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See the excerpt from the original Preppy Handbook:

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At home with Ralph Lauren

One of my favorite life-stylists is featured in one of my favorite magazines! While reading Architectural Digest this weekend, (Labor Day was my summer mag catch-up time) I was treated to a wonderful feature on the American stylist who is celebrating 30 years in the Home Decor business. Ralph Lauren is one of the most successful life-style brands and it was great to take a peek at some of the namesake designer's properties. Below, you will see snap-shots of his Madison Ave office, Bedford Home (my fav) and Colorado home...including the most fabulous teepees you will ever find!

Ralph Lauren has inspired generations with his vision of classic, effortless, and powerful designs that transcend simply your wardrobe and home by truly becoming a way of life. He is the model for all aspiring life-stylists because he has been able to create his pieces in a style that best suits a life he'd love to live. His vision seems to be on par with countless others as his brand remains ever successful and he continues to inspire not only his own life, but the lives of many others as well.

   "I came at everything with a sense of how I would want to live." 
- Ralph Lauren

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donaldrawbertson

A much as I love Instagram to stay posted about my friend's adventures, I also love it to see breathtaking pictures and get a splash of creative inspirations! I follow accounts ranging from Patagonia to National Geographic, Veranda to L.L.Bean, in addition to my favorite designers. I always enjoy when I come across a new account and donaldrawbertson is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The artist has a knack and fetish for illustrating the likes of design, flamingos, fashion, giraffes, haute couture, and high class. Take a look at some of my favorite illustrations below! 

In addition to his whimsically delightful artwork, he captures other quirky and inspirational elements of his daily life. 

If you're looking for a change to your insta-newsfeed, I would totally recommend this account!

Hope you had a wonderful weekend and keep the creative energy alive this week :)

Toodles!

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Memorial Day Weekend

I thought these spreads captured by the Kiel James Patrick brand, including a "kick off to summer" video, were perfect inspiration for the weekend. 

The lifestyle line is frequently a source for many of my blog themes as it balances youthful and celebratory playfulness with an element of classic and traditional preppiness. 

Check out more about Kiel James Patrick, Sarah Vickers & crew

KJPBrand

Classy Girls Wear Pearls

Azimuth Circle

Wishing you a blessed and appreciative Memorial Day Weekend & an unofficial welcome to summer!

Toodles!

(All photos via)

Video (produced by Brooks Brothers):

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