Event Architecture

For the last few weeks, I've been running ragged organizing an event for work - but last night's reception made all of the hiccups worthwhile.

Setting up the event before everyone arrives is my favorite part of my job. I'm on auto-pilot, checking items off the last-minute to-do list. I no longer have a chance to worry about things that will go wrong; I just have to assemble cocktail tables.

I chose tulips for our small centerpieces - a little self-serving since tulips are my favorite flower. But with the promise of spring on the horizon, I didn't think we'd have any complaints.

Besides, we didn't need an elaborate centerpiece to overshadow the breathtaking view of the Wisconsin State Capitol.

The Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery generously donated tiers of mini cupcakes for dessert at the cocktail reception.

If you're ever in Madison, definitely stop by the cafe. Each cupcake is created from all-natural ingredients and there's a wide variety of flavors to choose from. I've been delighted with each one I've tried, but the mocha-flavored cupcakes are one of my favorites.

In related news, I'm petitioning to change my title from Event Manager to Event Architect - I think it's a much more accurate title for event planners.

Tuesday Treats Under $20

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Nugaard, Leather Wrapped Stacked Bangle, $20
Anthropologie, Cast Iron Jack Sculpture, $8
MAC, Spring Color Forecast Nail Lacquer, $12
Paperwink, Rubber Address Stamp, $18
Old Navy, Petal Trim Tank, $12.50

The Bathroom: A Transformation

A few months ago, I casually mentioned that my boyfriend and I were embarking on a home renovation at his place, starting with the nearly-dilapidated bathroom.

I wasn't kidding, was I? The "before" version was disgusting. The hard water stained all of the fixtures orange. The wall behind the shower was rotting away. And the window in the shower overlooked the backyard deck, allowing visitors an eyeful (if you were brave enough to actually shower there - I never did).

During the deconstruction phase, we quickly realized that nothing was salvageable and (thankfully) decided to gut the entire room and start over - including removing the window from the shower. As Nate was tearing down the moldy drywall one evening, he excitedly called me:

Nate: Alright, I was working on the bathroom and I have something to tell you.
Me: Oh no! Is everything alright?
Nate: Well, just listen. I was tearing down the drywall and I discovered, get this, an extra two and a half feet of space behind the wall! So, do you want a bigger bathroom? A bigger closet in the bedroom? Or ... and I've always wanted one of these ... a secret room?!

The bathroom was about the size of a cell block. A discovery of two and a half feet of space along one wall, added much-needed square footage. This gave us the opportunity to put the vanity on the other side of the bathroom and create a built-in closet alongside of the shower.

One of the first reconstruction projects was tearing out the linoleum flooring and laying tile. (And see that shiny new tub?! It's beautiful, aside from the sticker on the front that just won't come off. I'm hoping a squirt of Goo Gone will work miracles.)

When we chose a paint color, I narrowed down the choices to five shades of aqua and let Nate have the final say. He was fine with the hue one a one-inch square paint chip, but was shocked to see it on the wall. Fortunately it grew on him; I'm in love with the color and had no intention of repainting (even though I offered to).

Moving the vanity and medicine cabinet to the opposite side of the wall quickly made the bathroom feel more spacious.

We finished building and painting the shelves in the built-in closet. Next week, we'll hang the door and affix the knob I chose from Anthropologie.

Just a few final touches remain: touch-up painting, hanging towel racks and choosing bath accessories.

Friday Finds Under $50

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Silence & Noise, Knot-Front Slip, $48
Urban Posh, Gold Ring in Smoke, $36
ASOS, Satin and Lace Ballerina, $37.61
Gorjana, Oxford Tear Earrings, $40
Emile Henry, Bake for the Cause 9-Inch Pie Dish, $44.37
Urban Outfitters, Skeleton Key Bottle Opener, $12

5 Essential Extras for Your Wardrobe

Tips on the perfect wardrobe basics litter magazines each month. While I won't deny the power of the quintessential little black dress, what about the pieces that add something special - that little je ne sais quoi? Here are five essential extras that are sure to add oomph to your closet - and become just as well-loved as your go-to basics.


01. Hands-Free Bag
I know many of you rely on a bevvy of bags to get through the week. The workhorse tote trucks to the office with you, with your high heels in tow; a spangled clutch is more reliable on a night out than your relationship with wine. Trust me, I understand. But I'm still going to recommend one bag you should rely on more than any other: the crossbody bag. Nothing, I swear, nothing will make you enjoy shopping more than having both hands free to snag the last pair of Choos in your size.

pictured above, left to right: Rebecca Minkoff Linear Studded Leather Rocker Crossbody Bag ($295); Nine West Drawstring Bar Crossbody ($69); See by Chloe Cherry Small Crossbody ($435); Poppie Jones Fashion Crossbody Bag ($19.95)


02. Stockings
There's a reason we've seen chic legwear worn on nearly every runway and by each influential blogger: it's the easiest - and most cost-effective way - to transform an outfit. Even your standby essentials take on an entirely different personality depending on which tights you choose. Fleshtone fishnets add subtle sexual overtones. Quirky touches are perfected with fire engine red tights. Or you can be staggeringly sophisticated with opaque black hosiery. In short: accumulate as many different colors and patterns that your closet can bear.

pictured above, left to right: Jonathan Aston Feathered Rumi Tights ($20); See by Chloe Lace Tights ($85); Jonathan Aston Vintage Sweet Roses Tights ($21.50); Hue Opaque Tights ($12.50)


03. Statement Something
Choose a statement bauble that shows off one (or more!) of your favorite features. Do you prize your hands for their ability to transcribe your thoughts? If so, choose a bold cocktail ring. Does your slender neck and collarbones make you feel particularly feminine? Don't cover them up - pull attention upward with a pair of dangling earrings. Love your cleavage? What better way to adorn your upper half than by draping a necklace around your neck? And jewelry isn't the only statement you can make. If you favor your hourglass figure, lean toward a staggering belt that cinches your outfit, accentuating your curves.

pictured above, left to right: Trina Turk Cabochon Ring ($66); Amrita Singh Jewelry Bonbel Bangle ($75); Torrid Gold Leaf Cutout Earrings ($12); Kate Spade Gumdrop Necklace ($82.90 - on sale)


04. Printed Frock
It's easy to be a wallflower in basics; sometimes your little black dress simply isn't going to stand out in a sea of noir-adorned women. Infuse both your closet and your mood with a printed frock. There's sure to be a pattern to suit your sartorial personality: a romantic floral, an arty brushstroke, or a modern graphic print. If you're not keen on dresses, try a printed blouse. It'll perk up your work wardrobe, leaving your tired grey turtleneck in the dust.

pictured above, left to right: Forever21 Ruched Pattern Dress ($24.80); Sass & Bide Midnight Runners Printed Tank Dress ($170); Anna Sui Silk Wrap Dress ($455)


05. Lingering Fragrance
A spritz of perfume completes your signature style - or transforms your persona. Instead of limiting yourself to one preferred spritz, try creating a scent wardrobe. Follow your nose to a clean, crisp scent for daytime; a flirty floral for winking at gentlemen; a sophisticated perfume in a designer bottle for special occasions. I prefer to spritz at the nape of my neck - it's an intimate statement discovered only by those who lean in close.

pictured above, left to right: Guerlain Mitsouko ($118); Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Perfume Solid ($75); Estee Lauder Private Collection Jasmine White Moss Solid Perfume ($195); Van Cleef & Arpels Feerie Pure Perfume ($250)

Tuesday Treats Under $20

When Erika of Cafe Fashionista suggested a lower-priced edition of Friday Finds, I grimaced a little. Creating the Friday Finds posts can be awfully time-consuming; scouring online retailers, hoping to find an item worthy of your hard-earned dollars - and then realize the item is just over the $50 limit.

To reduce that budget by $30 to create "Tuesday Treats Under $20" is a bit daunting. But it's doable - and an important reminder that a savvy pick-me-up doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Without further adieu, the debut edition of "Tuesday Treats Under $20":

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Old Navy, Watercolor Print Scarf, $12.50
Old Navy, Ruffled U-Neck Tank, $14.50
Forever21, Sophie Vintage Shoulder Bag, $17.80
Urban Outfitters, Flower with Rhinestone Earrings, $14
Crate & Barrel, Cupcake Holder, $3.90 (on sale)
Pop Deluxe, Bird Whisks, $9.99

Alice in Chains

Banana Republic Earrings; Diane von Furstenberg Tank; Norma Kamali for Walmart Skirt; Simply Vera Tights; Nine West Shoes; Yves Saint Laurent Ring

In January, I was delighted to win Cafe Fashionista's giveaway with Shopbop. I put the gift card toward the Dalmas Top by Diane von Furstenberg.

The chiffon-wrapped chains are perfectly subtle by day - shimmering only slightly in the sunlight.

But at night, the flash of a camera illuminates an undeniable edge to the otherwise understated tank.