Filed under: Destination Inspiration, Sandals, cardigan, dresses, skirts, swimwear, tops | Tags: Cambodia, cardigan, dress, heels, hotel, Hotel de la Paix, Sandals, Siem Reap, skirt, swimwear, tank
I’ve been dyyying to share this hotel since I came across it on Mr. and Mrs. Smith last week because it looks absolutely AMAZING. Admittedly, I’m not particularly familiar with Siem Reap, although apparently it’s a pretty popular tourist destination if you happen to be headed to Cambodia… and if that’s the case you really have no excuse to not stay at the Hotel de la Paix. Dubbed “a cool and calming oasis amongst the eclectic surrounds of Siem Reap,” this 5 star hotel certainly looks ideal for a relaxing getaway…
Ancient Khmer influences meet modern art deco elements throughout the hotel design, while understated elegance sets the underlying tone… well that and the Buddha Bar tunes preloaded on your complimentary iPod. Seriously.
Let’s just pretend you’re jetsetting off to Seim Reap – and since you’re fabulous of course you’ll want to enjoy your welcome cocktails in style… Maxi dress + cardi wrap = my fave travel combination. (I’d also like to take this opportunity to voice my strong belief that it is NOT OK to wear pjs/sweatpants/uggs when you’re traveling. I will never really understand this. Never.)
T-Bags Embellished Jersey Dress, K Karl Lagerfeld Jersey Cardigan, Chloe Cork Wedge Sandals
The hotel pool is this stunning moat-like body of water… Click here for a full screen panorama, it’s completely dreamy.
I’m loving the modern look of the Arts Lounge where you can feast your eyes on some Cambodian art and even enjoy tea time (with a twist)!
Calvin Klein Jersey Tank, Elizabeth & James Sequin Skirt (LOVE!), Tory Burch Liotta Cotton Jacket, Miu Miu Patent Leather Slingbacks (NEED!)
I have a feeling this courtyard is where magic happens…
If you’re lucky you can snag one of 3 loungy swing chairs (err, beds?) and feast on authentic Khmer curry while admiring the pretty people. Because apparently this is where they hang out.
Miu Miu Iris-print Jersey T-Shirt Dress, Zimmermann Gitana Printed Bikini, Jimmy Choo Phoenix Espadrilles
And of course, the guest rooms don’t disappoint! (Check out these duplexes too)
Totally cheesy but this looks like the stage for my ideal date… massages, a glass of wine while enjoying the dipping pool, and dinner for 2. I die, happily.
Oh and did I mention rooms here start around $300 per night? Not bad considering this place was €1745 per person, per night… And that makes me want to cry.
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, dresses, swimwear, tunic | Tags: Bohol, caftan, dress, hotel, Philippines, swimwear, tunic
Remember when I said I NEEDED to feel the sand between my toes?! Well I’m excited to be heading to the Philippines for a bit of a family reunion and besides spending some time in Manila, we’re going to Bohol which = beach time! Unfortunately… this isn’t happening for a few months (sighhh, insert pouty face) so until then, here’s some island inspiration for you!
I can barely look at swimwear right now since 1) I can’t shop and 2) vacay is so far away… but I’m loving the DVF String Bikini, Tara Matthews Bead-embellished Bikini Set, and Pucci (yes please!) Printed Triangle Bikini.
I have no idea where we’re actually staying, but I literally googled beach resorts in Bohol and found the Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa …Helloo gorgeous. Found in Panglao, the southernmost tip of Bohol, this boutique style all-villa resort is apparently great for people looking for peace and serenity (read: no childrens’ activity pool and no all-you-can-drink package marketed to college kids) – what I want on my vacation is pure relaxation, so it sounds perfect to me!
The thatched villas are distinctly Filipino “with a splash of modern amenities” (Wi-Fi, flat screen TVs, running water…)
Check out this free standing bathtub – it’s such a modern fixture to have in a villa don’t you think?!
Light, airy tunics perfect for lounging around or throwing over your swimwear: Calypso Sima Tunic, Allegra Hicks Iman Caftan, and DVF New Edie Mini Dress.
Each villa comes with its own pool (obviously)! This is a garden-view option…
And an ocean-view option… infinity pool AND whirlpool. Are you drooling yet?
These fun florals are kind of amazing. Resort attire, date-worthy, wedding season – who really needs an excuse? DVF Beach Tabalah Caftan, Tibi Silk Asymmetrical Maxi Dress, Tibi Silk Bandeau Dress.
Hopefully I’ll be able to share photos from where we’re actually staying in a few months, but until then… who’d like to enjoy me in dreaming?
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, dresses | Tags: dress, Gran Melia Colon, hotel, Seville
I missed last week’s Destination Inspiration because I was too busy just being here… but I found this hotel a couple weeks ago while searching for some romantic travel packages for a Valentine’s inspired post and its too cool not to share. (and now that I’m practically settled, I’m dying for a vacation again!) The Gran Melia Colon luxury hotel in Seville combines contemporary furnishings with a nod to Roman antiquity and an underlying quirkiness. Perfect for a romantic getaway and even though V-day’s over, let’s just pretend…
Nanette Lepore Poison Love Dress in Rouge/Noir
red rosebud chairs in the lobby + a modern twist on a floral print + petals in the tub by candlelight
Jay Godfrey Chambers One Shoulder Dress Two Tier Skirt in White/Black/Arizona Tan
clean modern interiors + soothing neutral color palette + relaxing outdoor terrace (swoon)
Nanette Lepore Capture Me Dress in Black
horse lamp (?!) in the bar + textured print with visual layers + stunning neo-Baroque facade by night
Who would have thought that the lobby in the first photo would be found in the same hotel as pictured in the last photo?? The site describes the hotel as having “an aesthetic that finds meaning in contrast, playing historical reverence against a wry, modern wit.” Its such an eclectic mixture of design elements but it all seems to work together and that’s what I find most inspiring about this hotel! Not to mention, Seville is just stunning… quiero mucho!
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, bags, dresses, heels | Tags: heels, clutch, dress, bags, hotel, Jakarta, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Kemang Icon
Mr. and Mrs. Smith never ceases to provide me with dreamy destination inspiration and this week’s trip to the Kemang Icon by Alila in Jakarta is no exception.
Set in one of Jakarta’s most upscale and trendsetting neighborhoods, the Kemang Icon combines an ultra modern design with inviting details and high-tech functionality.
I was immediately drawn to the clean architectural lines of this bedroom and the navy/ gray/ white color palate. It’s sophisticated but inviting, masculine but soft – an aesthetic that I’ve been more and more attracted to recently…
Outfit Inspiration: Metal Link Handle Slouch Bag ($80), Alexander McQueen Ankle Boots ($925), MCQ Strong-Shouldered Satin Jersey Dress ($260)
I love that these beautifully draped curtains add such a luxurious touch to the bathroom – how perfect would this setting be for a peaceful bubble bath?
Outfit Inspiration: Leather Ruched Flap Purse ($30), Charles David Chic ($215), Anna Sui Silk Wrap Dress ($455)
This hotel is clearly calling my name – orchids are one of my favorite flowers and they seem to appear in all of the rooms!
Outfit Inspiration: Leather Stud Clutch Bag ($90), Sergio Rossi Vlady ($408), Fendi Flower Detailed Silk-Chiffon Dress ($2,990) (in my dreams, clearly)
So are you ready to jet-set to Jakarta? I’m pretty sure I am…
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, dresses, romper | Tags: dress, romper, hotel, Greece, Mykonos, coverup
Since it’s snowing (again) in DC tonight, I’m thinking a little virtual getaway is in order… Instead of harsh winter white, I’m craving calming, airy neutrals – perhaps inspired by the Mykonos Grand Hotel?
From the moment you walk into the lobby, clean lines and tranquil space invite you in… such a contrast to my busy/stressful life and subsequent not-so-organized apartment right now!
Any of these light coverups would be perfect for throwing over a swimsuit or just lounging around (thought I’d probably suggest adding shorts for actually walking around) – Kushcush Beaux Cover Up ($162), Juicy Pleated Ruffle Cover Up ($173), Brette Sandler Alexis Voile Cover Up ($210)
How sublimely serene is that bedroom?! And a bathroom with a hot tub AND a view… it doesn’t get much better than that.
I love the idea of a long, white flowy dress for resort attire – it’s such a great canvas for layering big, bright accessories and showing off a tan! Geren Ford Rope Gown ($398), Rachel Pally Long Cutout Dress ($238), Theory Zaira Long Dress ($335)
I’m pretty much picturing myself (insert drink with superfluous fruit garnish) admiring the view from this patio…
For a getaway with the girls, you could head to the bar in any one of these casual cocktail dresses – Mason Drape Shoulder Tank Dress ($265), Twinkle Greek Goddess Dress ($319), Shoshanna Ruffle Cami Dress ($305)
I have such a design crush on this bar – so sleek and modern but welcoming at the same time!
Or for a Valentine’s Day getaway, these would all be fun date attire options – Madison Marcus Glossy Dress ($280), ISSA Kimono Dress ($418)
My Valentine’s Day plans will unfortunately not include dinner on the beach… sigh… one day!
So girls’ trip or romantic vacation, who’s up for a getaway to Greece?
Filed under: Comfy, Destination Inspiration, Leggings, cardigan, coats | Tags: cardigan, Leggings, Coat, hotel, ski, Switzerland, Sagittaire, chalet, sweater, earmuff, slipper
My hotel stalking endeavors rarely lead me to places with snow on the ground, but on cold nights like this I really wish I had a cozy fireplace to curl up in front of – complete with smores, a bearskin rug and the whole cliche, of course… Unfortunately my tiny city apartment isn’t furnished with such luxuries, so my thoughts have wandered to the Swiss alps this week…
Nestled in Verbier, known as the sunniest resort area in Switzerland, the Sagittaire is a stylish chalet with all comforts of a cozy ski cabin. I should preface the rest of this with the fact that I am in no way a skiier – I’ve only been a few times (in Europe and South America, oddly enough, never in the U.S) but I don’t particularly enjoy it and would much rather sit by the fire with a stack of fashion mags and a glass of wine!
I’m pretty sure I could spend the whole day lounging around in this den, but in case I get bored there’s always the massage room, gym, or indoor pool all on location to keep me occupied!
A girl’s gotta eat on vacation too, but that won’t be a problem seeing as… wait for it… there’s a personal chef on staff to cook up anything I might desire (and a fully stocked in house wine cellar, of course). I am a huge fan of all kinds of cheese which is convenient since fondues are popular in this region. I’d also suggest rösti – local Swiss potato cakes that are often combined with bacon, onion or herbs. Yum.
And of course, what chalet would be complete without warm goose down duvets, crisp Egyptian cotton sheets and Jo Malone toiletries in the bathrooms. Yes, please. Now on to the packing of course!
Since I’ll just be lounging, I think plenty of cozy sweaters are in order… I’m feeling a tranquil, neutral palette at the moment – perfect for a relaxing getaway! Pictured are: Rebecca Taylor Wool-blend Double Breasted Cardigan ($275), Juicy Couture Faux Fur Trim Wool Cardigan ($280), Elizabeth & James Double Layer Wool Blend Cardigan ($225), Topshop Knitted Textured Cardigan ($70), New Scotland Hand Knit Cardigan ($199), and Haja Oversized Jumper in Cream ($60). Any of these would be perfect over a J. Crew tissue tee.
This is one (very rare) occasion where I’ll actually wear pants (this is a “ski trip” after all) but only comfy pants allowed! The Haute Hippie Silk-cashmere Riding Pants ($195) are great for dressing up or down, the Bundle Up Leggings ($12) are a great cheap option and for a skinny jean alternative I love the J Brand Light Weight Denim Leggings ($145).
I’ve been trying to justify some fuzzy pink earmuffs for a while and this would be the perfect excuse. And of course some sheepskin slippers and a chic, puffy jacket are essentials for a chalet getaway! So who’d like to join me?
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, dresses, heels | Tags: capiz, DC, dress, heels, OYA, restaurant, Washington
I’m changing things up a bit with this weeks Destination Inspiration and sharing something a little closer to home! A few nights ago Z and I had a delicious dinner at OYA, one of my favorite restaurants in DC. It had been a couple months since the last time I’d been there and though nothing had really changed, I was struck by how much the interior design of the restaurant called out to me… Maybe it’s because I’ve started following more design blogs in the last few weeks, but for whatever reason I find myself paying more attention to things like the lighting in a room or the textiles of the furniture.
I love the pops of red in the entryway against the textured metallic walls surrounding the hostess area. This Marc Bouwer Strapless Dress paired with the CL Glitter Slingback Platform Pumps would be a killer fashion translation don’t you think? Ohhhh those shoes! (insert shameless plea for shoes. they’re so prettttty)
The bar/ lounge area has a beautifully bold pattern on the walls and stunning chandeliers with crystal accents. Apparently I have a thing for patterns these days, because I am seriously considering doing something similar in my dining nook right about now… For less effort you could channel the look in this Nicole Miller Scroll Print Dress and the Miu Miu Jewel Heel Sandals (yes, jeweled heels… add them to my lust list)!
Of course the dining areas are also ultra chic – I am obsessed with capiz shell lighting fixtures and would happily trade my capiz shell Target lamps for the floor to ceiling capiz light in the center of the dining room. Oh and the fireplace? I’ll take one of those too please! The Shoshanna Metallic Jacquard Dress is vaguely reminiscent of the subtle glow reflecting off the all-white furniture at night and the Kate Spade Lucia Flower Slingback Sandals are inspired by the textured petal embellishment surrounding the flowing water on the back wall – it’s really much prettier in person!
And FYI, the food’s pretty yummy too 
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, bags, bracelets, dresses, earrings, scarf, slip | Tags: bracelet, dress, bags, scarf, earrings, candle, hotel, North Island, Seychelles, dreaming, slip, cashmere, throw, Calypso
Ladies and gents, be forewarned – this post may leave you yearning for a tropical vacation that you can’t afford… (and if you can, you should probably take me with you. i’m just sayin.)
In case you haven’t been following along, I’ve been suffering from a serious case of seasonal affective disorder and would gladly trade my favorite loubies for a week of vacation with some sun and sand right now. Yeah, I’m dreaming… And in my dreams I’m going to the North Island in the Seychelles and staying in a gorgeous villa – which happens to cost € 1745 per person, per night (yes, that’s euros), but who’s keeping track…
There’s a good chance I’ll spend a lot of time in said villa, lounging around in a Divertimento Lace Tunic ($49) under a Calypso Home Cashmere Blanket ($250) and taking in the delicious fragrance of a bergamot and tea scented candle ($19).
Oh, and there’s even a study and second bedroom in my villa – in case you’d like to join me!
I’m looking forward to relaxing in our private outdoor living room in Denia Adobe Print swimwear ($75 each) and a Calypso Sima Tunic ($195), then throwing the essentials in a Minx Braided Hobo ($375) before we head out to the beach.
If you happen to have € 2760 per person to spend per night, we could upgrade to the even more luxurious Villa North Island – and our bathroom would look like this.
This cozy little hideaway would be the perfect for curling up with a glass of wine at the end of the day in this Allegra Hicks Camilla Mini Dress ($550) accented with a Citrine Bracelet ($285) and a Matta Duppatta Pom Pom Scarf ($69) – and watching the sunset…
So who’s with me?
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, bags, ballet flats, dresses, earrings, rings, skirts, tops | Tags: heels, dress, earring, bags, flats, rings, skirts, travel, headband, blouse, hotels, Alvear Palace Hotel, Argentina
For those of yall that don’t already know, I spent 6 months living in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 2005. If you’ve never been, book a trip NOW. It’s summer there after all! I’ve been reminiscing about my trip lately since I found out that my little brother is headed back down there for a summer program this year (so jealous!). When I was there, I was lucky enough to live with a really great family – my host “mom” was a gourmet food caterer and our huge apartment was right off of the Plaza San Martin (above). I took a few classes at La Universidad de Buenos Aires (La Literatura de Borges, La Historia del Cine en Argentina, and of course, El Tango) and also taught English “conversation classes” at la Universidad Argentina de la Empresa while “researching” my thesis (relating to the effects of the economic crisis in Argentina (1999-2002) on retail business development, in case you care).
Due to said crisis, the peso/$ ratio was pretty great (if you had $ that is), so it was an incredible 6 months of shopping, eating, exploring, and traveling around South America. Wayy too many memories to go into detail here, but I’ll just say it was quite the experience – everything from skiing the Andes to getting openly robbed on the street in Uruguay to Colin Farrell unexpectedly buying the first round of drinks at a tiny thai restaurant on my 21st birthday (yes, I have photo proof). Unfortunately, my computer crashed shortly after I returned to DC so I lost most of my pics from the trip with the exception of 100 or so I had already uploaded to facebook or webshots. Sooo sad.
Some of my favorite memories on Buenos Aires were weekend brunches at the Alvear Palace Hotel in Recoleta. Recoleta is an upscale neighborhood probably most known for it’s famous cemetery (where Eva Peron was buried) that’s full of elaborate marble mausoleums (seriously, they’re incredible).
60 Argentine pesos (approx $20 USD at the time) would get us an all you can drink champagne brunch with delicious food in this fancy-shmancy hotel. Followed by an afternoon shopping at Patio Bullrich or the Feria Plaza Francia and maybe an afternoon stop at Freddo for a creamy dulce de leche dessert, sighhhh, these were the days.
Satin Bow Headband ($4), Solstice Jewel Ring ($4), Disco Swarovski crystal clip-on earrings ($490), Stella McCartney Pleated Silk-Satin Dress ($1,875), High Heel Stiletto Pumps ($180)
An outfit inspired by the hotel lobby – a mixture of pinks, rich blue accents, a touch of gold and rich textures – perfect for an elegant outing.
BY MALENE BIRGER Armory Top ($215), Drop Stone Earrings ($40), Leather Chain Handle Bag ($160), Willow Pleated Crepe Skirt ($585), Lanvin Linen and Leather Flats ($470)
The suites have an obviously French palatial feel with muted peach and olive tones, intricate detailing, stunning chandeliers, and sitting rooms fit for tea. This outfit would be appropriate for such an occasion, don’t you think?
Filed under: Destination Inspiration, cardigan, dresses | Tags: dress, cardigan, Hotel Missoni, Hotel Helix, M by Missoni
This time of year I’m usually dreaming about staying at luxurious hotels in locations anywhere warmer than DC… but this isn’t one of them. The Hotel Missoni in Old Town Edinburgh isn’t exactly the travel destination of my dreams, but more like what I would imagine the Hotel Helix in my neighborhood would be like if Rosita Missoni rescued it from its 70’s modern remix vibe and gave it a serious dose of luxurious Italian style.
The Missoni Hotel is no beach side resort, but it’s quirky, colorful, and full of texture – and as I wrap myself in a Missoni inspired Tolani scarf to brave the cold weather (cause the real thing’s not exactly in the budget), these are the things about Missoni designs that delight me.
M Missoni Wave Pattern Sweater Dress ($695)
M Missoni Gradient Stripe Cardigan ($444)
M Missoni Silk Ruffle Dress ($518)
