Trend Alert: Plaid Party with Altar’d State
Trends come and go, but there is one top trend right now that has been around for ages and isn't going anywhere, plaid! Whether it's a casual top or a…
Pretty in Platinum: Luxe Jewelry by Platinum Born
You all know I am jewelry obsessed. Costume, custom, and luxury, I love it all. I would say I have more pieces of jewelry than I do clothes and handbags. My Mom always said I got the jewelry gene and I am proud to embrace it. She grew up working at a jewelry store and has been collecting pieces from a very young age. Anytime I get to raid her jewelry boxes, I am there. We attend wholesale jewelry shows where we purchase loose stones, vintage pieces and most of the time just drool over the beautiful handcrafted pieces.
Coco Chanel once said, ‘take one piece of jewelry off before you leave the house’. I have never been able to stomach that advice. You will find me with multiple bracelets on, probably two stacked necklaces, and always a pair of earrings on! Partnering with a beautiful and elegant jewelry line is a dream come true. I may be a bit too much when it comes to the jewelry department, but the simplicity of Platinum Born has me believing I could be a one necklace woman.
I was approached by a local high-end jeweler, Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers, I was ecstatic to work with them. Supporting local has always been my number one goal so visiting the jewelry store that has been family owned since 1899 was very special. The store carries beautiful engagement rings, earrings to make a statement, luxury watches you can’t get anywhere else and lucky for you… A beautiful and elegant collection called Platinum Born.
I’m not sure about you, but when I hear the word platinum, I instantly think of quality, luxe, and class, and that is exactly what the entire Platinum Born line embodies. As seen on the likes of GiGi Hadid and Priyanka Chopra, you feel fabulous when you have it on. It’s timeless but modern. The simplicity of the necklaces is inviting to even a beginner jewelry wearer. Made only from platinum the pieces are handcrafted to give the illusion of diamonds and believe me, it takes the eye a while to figure that out.
You don’t have to take my word for how beautiful and versatile these pieces are, take a look below.
Riva.
Milwaukee Moments: A night at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in the Historic Third Ward
I have a soft spot in my heart for the Historic Third Ward, so when the opportunity to collaborate with its most desired hotel presented itself, I was thrilled.
Cue in the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel.
Why do I love the Third Ward so much? I actually lived in this historic neighborhood for over four years and have enjoyed watching the transformation it has taken over the last ten years. When my parents told me they had purchased a condo in the Third Ward and we would be moving from Wauwatosa (halfway through my junior year of high school!) I was so confused, but was reassured that I would stay at the same high school AND have a huge closet. Little did I know, I would be in the prime location of Milwaukee, minutes from everything, and obviously, living in the coolest neighborhood in Milwaukee! Not to mention when college came around, I had the most desirable hang out spot before heading to Summerfest (one of the largest music festivals in the world) or out on the town for the evening. The Historic Third Ward, which is one of the most visited areas of Milwaukee, is also known as an art district specifically for its Gallery Night and Day event, which takes place four times each year. It’s full of character and is always booming with locals and tourists alike.
I was ecstatic to hear Milwaukee was getting it’s first Kimpton Hotel, the Journeyman. I visited the Kimpton Monaco Hotel in Denver, Colorado a few years back, and was blown away by the service, decor, and ambiance. I knew a boutique hotel would be the perfect addition to our city and the location was so fitting. What was even more exciting is that it would be built right next to my parent’s condo so I can visit them and head over to the hotel’s rooftop bar after.
When the Journeyman Hotel opened, I immediately went to check it out. I was blown away by the luxe interior design and the meticulous attention to detail found even in the smallest nooks and crannies. Featuring stunning light fixtures, an inviting fireplace, and mid-century modern decor, the hotel caters to all tastes and is the perfect addition to the Milwaukee hotel portfolio, as there is no other hotel like it.
Besides the stunning interior design, there are other amazing amenities the Journeyman offiers: their social hour for guests featuring free local brews, their pet-friendly vibe, with pet sitting and dog walking services available, a pool table in the lobby and a personal, complimentary yoga mat in your room. You will be entertained during your stay, for sure.
29Rooms Exhibit in Chicago
I have been following Refinery29 for YEARS now. They have the most amazing articles that are honestly so honest and so real life, and so relatable to life! Naturally, when I got the email about 29Rooms telling me I couldn’t miss it, that bait click got me… I looked into it, and WOW, SO COOL! The best way to explain the traveling exhibit is as an Instagram playground. But don’t get me wrong, although the art exhibits were #goals, they all had deep meanings. Each ‘room’ or art installation was created by an artist who drew inspiration from their life, society or what the hell, just for fun! Take a look!
Riva.
The Perfect Summer OOTD
Now I know I have said this a million times, but my absolute favorite thing about blogging is meeting new people and finding new businesses to support. I started my blog about two and a half years ago and since then I have met countless people I may or may not have ever met otherwise. There are brands I wouldn’t have ever discovered and stores I may not have been introduced to. It’s funny how a couple years can make such a difference and made an impact on the way I shop now. I would much rather take the advice from a reputable blogger the way I share my honest opinions with others, to help make shopping easier and more efficient.
I was introduced to Willow Boutique by email and was instantly drawn to the shop. Although it’s located three and half hours north, I am still one to support a local-ish store over a national chain. They were kind enough to gift this adorable outfit and I cannot wait to share their store with you all! When you get a minute, go to their website to see their amazing selection of pieces to elevate your closet!
I often drive down Lake Drive (for my non-Milwaukee followers, it’s the fanciest block with all the houses facing Lake Michigan) and have always loved a particular house, with amazing landscaping, so decided to feature it today. I figured I wasn’t trespassing, and the likely-hood of the owners following my blog was slim. And I mean, I am technically on the sidewalk 😉 But I figured the outfit I had on was the definition of the most Summer Uniform so their flowers were the perfect backdrop.
Now to the outfit… I was drawn to the fun woven straps on this adorable Knot Sisters top and I even got a compliment from my husband, who never notices my clothes… I mean unless he’s making fun of me or telling me I look really good. The Joe’s Denim skirt is a great addition to my summer and fall wardrobe. I am excited to pair it with a sweater and pair of booties. Naturally I don’t take my Gucci belt off so I thought it’s presence was a great addition.
Have you found a store through social media or a blog that has impacted your closet?
Riva.
Everyday Favorites with Evereve
So, where I’ve been shopping…
I hope I’m not the only one that cannot quite get the in between of a super dressy and a super casual outfit…? Ya know when you look at your closet and think to yourself, “I just want to be comfortable, but I want to look nice and fashionable”. Cue in Evereve. With a mixture of casual, dressy, trendy and designer pieces, believe me, you can’t leave empty handed. I knew I was in trouble the second I got to the store. Mel (Store Manager) was putting the easel sign outside The Corners of Brookfield location, and I instantly saw her adorable leopard slides. One of those, don’t question, just buy, moments kicked in. Hence why you see them here.
My experience while shopping at the store was what was the fun part. There were about five stylists working, all of whom gave me recommendations, friendly critiques and very nice compliments, while trying on half the store. All of the stylists are trained in finding the best pieces for your body type and style. Their ultimate goal is that you leave happy.
Denim Snob
Did you know I’m a denim snob?
That’s right, I will gladly spend over $200 on jeans because THEY WILL LAST! That’s not to say all of my jeans are designer (not a millionaire), but when I need a good pair of a dark wash jeans, you better believe I will splurge. Now, a lot of you may think I am crazy and think it is a waste of money, but just as an example, I have a pair of Hudson Jeans I have had for over 4 years and they look brand new. It’s also a great way to keep yourself accountable, because no one wants to outgrow an expensive pair of pants!
Transitioning into Spring
Not sure what to wear? Well I am with you on some level. It could be 20 degrees in the morning and then you are sweating by 3pm. Example number one: it just snowed eight inches last week and I wore open toed shoes the week before. Not much you can do about it other than deal and try to make the best… Or maybe move to Florida.
When thinking about this transition time, I try to pair items that can fit in two seasons. I got this funky cropped jean jacket from Pretty Little Thing. The ruffle adds a bit of femininity to the style. Pairing it with a floral jumpsuit was my way to feeling an ounce of Spring!
What do you wear in the awkward in-between times?
Riva. (more…)
Girls Weekend at the Pfister Hotel Milwaukee
The Pfister Hotel is a landmark in Milwaukee and I am so proud that we have such an amazing place to represent out city. I had the honor of sharing a girls night there with three of my favorite Milwaukee bloggers. We were wined, dined and pampered, and I have probably too many photos to share, but a photo really is worth a thousand words. The beautiful hotel was built in 1893 and has continued to be the ‘it’ hotel in Milwaukee.
Let me take you along on the two day #staycation we enjoyed… We arrived in style and a naturally had to document the stunning exterior of the hotel. The intricate facade has a very vintage, but inviting feel. I mean, even the flipping parking lot has curb appeal. Now, if you have been to the hotel, you know how indescribably beautiful the lobby is… Take a look at the photos below. In addition to the ornate painted ceiling, there are beautiful pieces of art mixed throughout the entire hotel.
Spring Moments with Scout & Molly’s
If you follow me on Instagram you have seen that the Corners of Brookfield is one of my new favorite malls. Not only does it have stores that are different from a normal mall, there are more than five stores in the lifestyle center that are new to Wisconsin and me! Scout and Molly’s is one of the stores that I was introduced to, so I wanted to share my experience on my latest shopping visit. It is the only location in Wisconsin too!