Tea & Toast

Tonight!

2011-08-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends and I are going to see this gorgeous lady at the Paramount! If you can't already tell, I'm ridiculously excited! Adele is basically my therapist, so we go way back.

Has anyone else seen her in concert? I expect she'll be absolutely incredible!

xoxo,
M

{image via weheartit}

Happy August!

2011-08-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is already August! Time is just flying by!

I want to take a moment to apologize for disappearing for a bit. My excuses are that I 'm working three jobs and taking a 15 credit summer French class in preparation for my study abroad program this fall. I honestly have no free time.

Fun fact: I leave for Europe in 21 days!!!

Once I have a bit more time on my hands I will fill you all in as to what my travel plans are! Once I'm over the pond, I'll be posting all of my photographs here to keep you updated. For now, just know that I miss you all very much.

xoxo,

Melina

{image via toast}

Christian Louboutin Fall 2011 Lookbook

2011-06-22T07:44:00.000-07:00

“Marquise D’Antin” Jean-Marc Nattier, 1738

“Portrait of a Girl” Jean Baptiste-Camille Corot, 1857

"Saint Dorothy" Francisco de Zurbaran, 1647

“Whistler’s Mother” James McNeil Whistler, 1871

“Portrait d’une Negresse” Marie-Guilleme Benoit, 1800

"Magdalene and the Flame" Georges de la Tour,1638-1649

“Elizabeth of Austria” Francois Clouet, 1571

Perhaps it is because I'm an art history major, but I am in love with Christian Louboutin's artsy lookbook. Such an brilliant concept!

What do you think?

xoxo,
Melina

{images via fashionologie and googleimages}

Julie Delpy Day

2011-06-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

I am celebrating the end of finals by having a Julie Delpy day. I've spent the entire day in bed watching 2 Days in Paris, Before Sunrise and Before Sunset. Now I'm teaching myself how to play "A Waltz for the Night"...such a perfect day!

xoxo,
Melina

The Apple Galette

2011-06-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

Though spring truly has yet to show itself, I am already wishing for fall. It is my absolute favorite season! I miss the layering of jewel tone clothes, the brisk cool air blowing around the fragile golden leaves, curling up on the couch and knitting in a cozy coffee shop, and the warm feeling of baking apple galettes in the afternoon. Then again, I'll be in Paris for the fall so maybe that has something to do with it.

Last night I found myself searching for a galette recipe to chase this feeling of fall, and I became giddy when I saw this amazing video! By now, you must know how much I adore fun visual aids, so it kind of made my day.

(music: Pull Yourself Together And Fall In Love With Me.)

Here is the recipe:

The Apple Galette (serves 2 to 4, depending on how generous you're feeling)adapted from Too Much Food

for the dough
1 cup flour (I used a 50/50 mix of white and wheat) 
1/2 teaspoon sugar 
1/8 teaspoon salt 
6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 
chilled water, as needed (I used about 6 tbsp)

for the filling
2 medium apples peeled, cored and sliced 
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar (more or less depending on how tart your apples are)
turbinado sugar for topping (optional)

For the dough, sift flour in a large bowl. Mix in sugar and salt. Cut in butter, working quickly, to prevent it from completely melting. Continue until the biggest pieces of butter are roughly the size of large peas. Add chilled water a tablespoon at a time until the dough just holds together. Gather dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

When the dough is ready, roll out on a floured surface or on plastic wrap to a 14" circle about 1/8" thick. Transfer to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Preheat oven to 400°F.

For the filling, place apple slices in a bowl with melted butter and sugar. Toss to coat. Overlap the apples in a circle 2" from the edge of the dough. Continue spiraling inward until you've reached the center. Fold over the edges of the dough, and sprinkle dough edge with turbinado sugar if desired (I do this for added texture more than for sweetness).

Bake on middle rack of oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Rotate the galette every 15 minutes for an evenly baked crust. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Let's fast forward to fall, shall we?
xoxo,
Melina

P.S.
On a complete side note, who do you tend to listen to during fall? I always find myself listening to much more calming music. A Fine Frenzy is always playing, as well as Ingrid Michaelson, Death Cab for Cutie, Duffy, and Zee Avi. During spring I always listen to Fleet Foxes, something about them makes me feel springy.

{images via flickr, elephantine}

Vintage Social Networking

2011-05-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

These vintage ads make me not feel as guilty for loving social networking! I love that they add nostalgia to such a contemporary phenomenon.

{images via moredesignplease}

New Girl

2011-05-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this new fall TV show starring my biggest girl crush, Zooey Deschanel! Apparently I'm just like this girl, as several of my friends have posted this trailer on my facebook wall over the past week. I'll take it as a compliment!

The only problem is that now I want to stop growing out my bangs and chop them short once again. And, as always, I want to get glasses.

Oh well, bring on Fall!

xoxo,
Melina

P.S. New Girl premieres this fall on Tuesday nights on FOX.

Happy Mother's Day (Weekend)!

2011-05-06T13:40:00.000-07:00

What are you doing for Mother's Day? I'm going back home to see my mom, and probably take her to brunch here.

Have a lovely weekend!
xoxo,
Melina

{image via weheartit}

Kitchen Renovation

2011-05-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

I love this idea of a spice rack as an art piece. Brilliant!

I must say that I can't look at the first picture without wondering who is watching that baby!

xoxo,
Melina

{image via dwell}

Midterms

2011-05-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

...enough said.

{image via weheartit}

Congratulations, Will and Kate!

2011-04-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

Best wedding picture ever! Poor thing, it must have been too loud for her.

Did you watch the Royal Wedding yet? I got up at 2:30 in the morning to see it live on youtube. I was so mesmerized by it that I could not turn it off until it was absolutely over, so I went to bed at about 6 o'clock this morning. Needless to say, I'm exhausted.

Now I'm off to re-watch highlights from the ceremony!

xoxo,
Melina

{image via the windsor knot}

Wedding Inspiration

2011-04-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

With the Royal Wedding tomorrow, it is easy to get caught up with all the madness. It only seems appropriate that I post about a tangible wedding for us non-Royal serfs.

Not that I'm getting married anytime soon, but this is the kind of wedding I could seem myself having. Something small, intimate and elegant. Not to mention, I am in love with the bride's hair! Not only is the color gorgeous, but I can't get over how the hairstylist made the 1940's style so modern. And let's not forget the wedding dress by Reem Acra. I think it is the epitome of simple elegance.

Happy wedding obsessing!

xoxo,
Melina

{images via oncewed}

I missed you!

2011-04-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

I apologize for falling off the face of the earth this past week or so. I had all four of my wisdom teeth pulled, and have since been in a painkiller-induced stupor surviving only on applesauce and tea. This experience isn't what I was expecting. I wasn't allowed to have any dairy! All I wanted was a milkshake, but no. And I have to stick to soft foods until my follow-up appointment, which isn't until next week! Oh, the humanity! This is what happens when I have a drill sergeant of an oral surgeon.

How have you all been? I'd love to hear what is happening if your lives!

xxo,
Melina

{image via tumblr}

Emerson Made: From India

2011-04-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm dying over these photos from Emerson over in India. This is yet another reason to live vicariously through her. Let's not forget to mention how much I crave henna on my finger tips after looking at the first image.

Quick, someone book me a flight to India!

xoxo,
Melina

{images via emersonmade}

Le sigh

2011-04-13T09:30:00.001-07:00

Oh how I wish I looked like this when I woke up in the mornings. Until that glorious day, I shall have to continue waking up every morning rocking a she-mullet.

C'est la vie,
Melina

{images from fashiongonerogue}

Thought of the day

2011-04-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

{image via happenstance}

Ribbon Chic

2011-04-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

"It's a little bit Catherine Deneuve, a little bourgeois, and very Valentino," said Palau, the hairdresser who created this look for Valentino's Fall 2011 collection.

Très chic, non?

I'm so excited for my fringe to grow out so I can rock this look.

xoxo,

Melina

{images via everythingfab}

Food Porn

2011-04-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

My latest obsession is quinoa. How have I lived this long without it in my life? I picked it up last week from Whole Foods and have been eating it daily since. Needless to say, I was so excited when I discovered this video on My New Roots, a foodie blog that just so happens to feature healthy holistic foods.

Best day ever? I'm thinking so.

Now I'm off to the salon to dye my hair! Wish me luck!

xoxo,
Melina

London or Paris?

2011-04-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

I found out yesterday that I got into yet another study abroad program, that I applied to just to see if I would get in. This program is in PARIS!! I would live with a Parisian family from late September to December. Dream come true, right?

I would happily do both programs, as I would be in London from August to mid September, but I don't have a lot of money. Oh how I wish I were a trust-fund kid.

I'm curious, which city should I live in? I'm leaning towards Paris, but I'd love to know your thoughts.

xoxo,
Melina

{image via irenesuchocki}

Bossypants

2011-04-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

Guess what I'm picking up after work? That's right, Tina Fey's new book Bossypants, which just so happens to come out today! As a devout 30 Rock-er, and Tina Fey lover it is essential that I own this as I'm sure I will be re-reading several times.

6 o'clock can't come soon enough!

xoxo,
Melina

{image via csebastian}

Where did Spring go?

2011-03-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

It's grey and rainy in Seattle today, so I am inclined to dress in many dark layers. Now all I need are fake glasses, to complete the look.

I'm curious, are fake glasses tacky or chic? I've been obsessed with glasses ever since I could remember, but alas I have great vision. I guess the grass is always greener.

I'm anxious to hear your thoughts!

xoxo,
Melina

{image via thesartorialist}

Speaking of...

2011-03-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

I love how the Orla Kiely wallpaper is used in such a unique way. This is beginning an obsessing with stair decor, by the way. More on that later.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!
M

{image via frenchbydesign}

Print Works

2011-03-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

If you have't figured it out already, this is the home of designer Orla Kiely. She and her family live in a self-renovated, three-story Victorian house in Clapham, South London.

Fun fact: The oversized blue headboard in the fifth picture actually doubles in function. It is obviously a headboard, but the other side is actually additional storage space for clothes, shoes, etc. Brilliant!

I'm dying over her amazing mid-century furniture, and that olive green wall color. Such a bold choice, but somehow it feels warm and nostalgic. If I haven't said this before, Kiely is brilliant.

xoxo,
Melina

{images via thelondonmagazine}

Love this

2011-03-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

{image via dearcolleen}

Liz Taylor

2011-03-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

I was so sad when I woke up this morning and read that Elizabeth Taylor died. I have loved her since my obsession with National Velvet and horses when I was a little girl. I wanted to be just like Velvet Brown, so much so that I was very much into showing horses for a while there.

Here are just more photographs of her, in memoriam. She was so jaw-droppingly gorgeous!

{images via weheartit}

Treasure Dress

2011-03-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the lookbook for a new UK vintage dress boutique, Treasure Dress. What's most exciting is that they ship worldwide! Oh, and for those of you looking for wedding dresses, look no further. They have a wide selection of gorgeous vintage gowns.

Don't you just love that model's red hair?
xoxo,
Melina

{images via sallyjanevintage,treasuredress}

Happy Spring!

2011-03-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

Though you can't tell from the weather here in Seattle, it is officially Spring today!

To kick off the new season, my roommate and I played tourist and went down to Pike Place Market to buy a new bouquet of daffodils with cherry blossoms. This sounded like a great idea, but the bus ride back to our apartment was quite difficult as the cherry blossom branches kept hitting my fellow passengers. Imagine that scene from Julie & Julia where Julie takes the subway with her collection of decorative branches. My experience was similar to that.

What are you doing to welcome in Spring?

xoxo,
Melina

Note: These are not my pictures, unfortunately I forgot my camera. I guess I wasn't that convincing as a tourist :)

{image via flickr}

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

xoxo,
Melina

{image via lisagolightly}

Help Japan

2011-03-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

I have been closely following the horrific events in Japan, and wanted to help. I stumbled upon these posters and ended up ordering the third print! All the proceeds of these posters will be donated to Japanese disaster relief efforts.
Now, go and do good!

Help Japan by W+K Studios

Help Japan by James White

Help Japan by Rob Dobi

Print 070/365 by The Living Conspiracy

{images via designcrush}

Yep...

2011-03-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

...it's finals week. Hurrah.

On a positive note, I only have two more days to think about anatomy and psychology!

I'll be back on wednesday!

xoxo,

Melina

{image via weheartit}

Newspaper Blackout Poems

2011-03-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

I think I'm actually going to buy the print of the first poem, I just love it! While I'm at it, I think I'll pick up his book too.

Wish me luck, I'm off to take my architecture final!
Melina x

{images via austinkleon}

Jamie Beck: Daily Style

2011-03-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when I saw these diptychs by Miss Moss of the glamorous NY Fashion Week daily style of Jamie Beck from From Me To You. I am always inspired by her photography and styling, not to mention that she is such a nice person too!

I think it's time to play dress up!

Melina xo

{images via missmoss, frommetoyou}

HIGH Spring Summer 2011

2011-03-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

This Summer Spring lookbook for HIGH fashion makes me want to go off to the English countryside and drink tea all afternoon.

Can I also just say that the older model is exactly why I don't understand the obsession with Botox. She's absolutely gorgeous! And I love how Europeans aren't as afraid of aging as Americans. Just look at how she embraces her beautiful silver hair by keeping it long. This just makes me excited to get older.

xoxo,
Melina

{images via h-i-g-h}

Londontown, here I come!

2011-03-08T09:06:00.000-08:00

I just found out that I got accepted to the study abroad program in London for two months this summer!! I'm beyond excited, I'd go as far as saying I'm chuffed to bits about it! Thank you all for your wonderful wishes and good thoughts, I'm convinced that's how I got accepted.

I'm off to start planning my trip!
xoxo,
Melina

P.S. If you know of any amazing spots in London where I should go, let me know! I'd love to hear about anything London!

{image via somethingcakes}

C'est la vie

2011-03-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for the lovely birthday wishes! I had a wonderful weekend with my friends and family. I'm sorry for not posting earlier today, I ended getting food poisoning from my birthday dinner and was sick Sunday and Monday. At least I'm starting 22 off with some weight loss!

I'll get back to blogging tomorrow.
xoxo,
Melina

{image via weheartit}

Woo Hoo I'm 22!!

2011-03-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

Well, actually I'm 22 tomorrow. Still, I can't believe I'm already 22! I'm going to my mom's house to celebrate with family and my actual party with friends is next weekend. I can't wait!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!
xoxo,
Melina

{images via weheartit}

Back to blonde

2011-03-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been thinking of going back to my natural blonde. I'd love to avoid looking like a playboy bunny though, so I'm curious of your thoughts. Is this too blonde?

xoxo,
Melina

(images via stockholmstreetstyle}

Wish me luck!

2011-03-02T09:59:00.000-08:00

Today I have a very important interview to decide whether or not I am accepted to study abroad in London for two months this summer! I am already so invested in this program, and am busy making plans with my friends in the U.K., that I will be crushed if I don't get in. I find out by the end of the week, and of course I'll keep you updated.

xoxo,
Melina

{image via piccsy}

Emerson Made

2011-03-01T08:56:00.000-08:00

If you don't already know, I have such a girl crush on Emerson from Emerson Made. A while ago I posted on her style, and today we get a look into her house! It's so hard to choose, but I believe my favorite part of her house is how clutter-free it is. Everything is stored in clear jars, so daring. And just look at that pantry! I think the only thing to improve this house would be to install a library ladder in the pantry, but I've just got a thing for ladders.

For the whole spread, pick up the February issue of The Nest.

xox,
Melina

{images via sweetpaul}

abk

2011-02-24T09:08:00.000-08:00

There are few things I love more than a long lasting and high quality leather bag. Last summer my step-mom gave me a few of her old Coach bags since she never used them, and I love how simple they are. This must be why I am dying over abk's entire line of bags. The designer, Alya B. Kazakevich, knows how the balance between clean, simple craftsmanship and urban edge. Oh, and they also make shoes and sandals!!

abk, why can't you be in Seattle??

{images via a.b.k}

A Light Obsession

2011-02-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

I am mildy obsessed with these Edison bulb hanging light fixtures. There is something about those exposed light bulbs that make them seem so ethereal, especially in the first and last photos. I love how they just look like they're floating around the room.

One of the things I want to do in life is open my own cafe, and I've already decided to have a dining room with these kinds of light fixtures. And, once I am allowed to change the lighting in my next apartment, I'll think about getting this put it. I may have to wait for the cafe though, totally worth it!

What do you think of these?
Melina

P.S. I'm sorry the first picture is so tiny
{images via 1,2,3,4}

Guinness Chocolate Cake

2011-02-22T13:40:00.000-08:00

Oh, I forgot to tell you that I made this cake over the weekend! If the pictures don't speak for themselves (though they are not my personal photos) I should tell you that this cake is incredible! For lack of a better word, it is so moist (agh this is my least favorite word!)and delicious. I'll be honest though, when I first starting making the batter I wasn't quite sure how it would turn out. The smell of melted butter, with cocoa powder and Guinness did not smell so tasty and I'd imagined. Once I put all the ingredients together, the batter was the best thing I've ever tasted! A bold statement, I know.

Below I copied the recipe, but please stop by Design*Sponge to read all about Food Photographer Katie Quinn Davies and see more pictures of this baking process.

Guinness Chocolate Cake

Cake Ingredients

250 g (1 c. and 2 tbsp) unsalted butter
250 ml (1 c.) Guinness
75 g Dutch process cocoa ( 3/4 c.), sifted
275 g (2 + 1/4 c.) all purpose flour, sifted
2 tsp. baking soda
400 g (2 c.) sugar
2 medium eggs
150 ml (2/3 c.) sour cream
1 tbsp. good quality vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

300 g (1 + 1/3 cup) cream cheese
150 g (1+1/2 c.) powdered sugar, sifted
150 ml (2/3 c.) cream, whipped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 180C/350F.

1. Add butter, cocoa and Guinness to a saucepan. Warm over a medium heat and stir until melted. Set aside for 5 to 10 minutes to cool slightly.

2. Add flour, baking soda and sugar to a large mixing bowl and mix together well. Pour in the Guinness/cocoa/butter mixture, lightly combine, add the vanilla, eggs and sour cream and beat everything together until well combined. The batter should be thick and dark chocolate in color.

3. Pour into a greased and lined 10″ angel food pan (or another straight-sided tube pan) and cook in the oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean from the centre of the cake.*Note: This cake is very moist inside, so use your judgment regarding the skewer test. Do not leave in the oven until the cake has totally dried out — cook long enough so there is no uncooked cake on the skewer but there may be a few moist crumbs sticking to it after an hour of cooking. [Please note: Katie baked this in an 8.5" x 3.5" pan. If you make this in a regular angel food cake pan, you should start checking for doneness at least 15 minutes early.]

4. Leave to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before removing from the cake tin and placing on a wire wrack to cool completely.

Frosting Instructions

1. Place the cream cheese into the bowl of a mixer and beat on a low-medium speed using a whisk attachment (I find a paddle attachment tends to over-beat the cheese). Whisk until the cheese is smooth and there are no big lumps remaining.

2. Gradually, using a large spoon, add in the sifted powdered sugar and beat gently to combine. After 2 to 3 minutes, stop the machine, scrape any excess frosting from the sides of the bowl and beat on medium speed until lump free.

3. Remove bowl from mixer and gently fold in the whipped cream, mixing to fully combine.

4. Place cooled cake on a cake stand and add the frosting, spreading out just to the edge without going over the side (never go over the sides of the cake) until the cake resembles a pint of the creamy black stuff! The idea is to capture the essence and simplicity of a pint of Guinness. Sláinte!

I can't wait for St. Patrick's Day to bake this again! It is my roommate's boyfriend's (got that?) 21st birthday. Perfect, right?

Let me know what you think of this cake!

Melina

{images via designsponge}

21

2011-02-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

Maybe it is just me, but I cannot watch this without crying.

In a time when electropop and synthesized vocals hog up the airwaves, it is such a relief to be reassured that there are still real artists out there. Adele is incredibly talented and I can't wait to listen to her new album, which comes out in the U.S. today!!

Oh, happy day!

xox,
Melina

P.S. I love how she rocks the poof!

Elle Russia, February 2011

2011-02-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that I love how the movie Black Swan has brought ballet glamour back? Many of the editorials lately have been greatly inspired by ballet costumes, but I love the color palette and texture to these photographs the most.

Fun fact: I wanted to be a prima ballerina when I was little, but my ballet teacher told my parents I wasn't the most graceful kid in the class and I should try gymnastics. In the end I became too tall to go further with it, but now I can do several fun party tricks!

Happy Monday everyone!

xoxo,
Melina
{images via ohfashionmodel}

Dear Tax Return,

2011-02-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Please hurry up and get here so I can buy a pretty bike.

With urgency,

Melina

{images via karrahkobus}

Wowza!

2011-02-18T09:07:00.000-08:00

I just noticed this morning that I now have over 100 followers!! It seems like yesterday that I was giddy over having met the 20 follower mark. I feel completely humbled that so many of you are interested in what I am posting and, better yet, return for more! Thank you all for your sweet comments and making me feel like a part of this community.

Please remember that you are all beautiful and amazing!

Love,

Melina

{image via kleinedivainparis}

Foodography

2011-02-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

Today is a good day. One of my favorite people always answers this when I ask him how he is. Why is today a good day, you ask? I found out that Helene Dujardin from Tartlette has published her book Foodography: Digital Food Photography & Styling! If you have as huge of a girl crush on Helene as I do, or you want to learn all the insider secrets of food photography and styling, I'd recommend you check this book out.

I want to start documenting some of the meals I'm proud of so I'm excited to get this book when it is released in May. Until then, we can repeatedly watch this behind the scenes video of her work, and drool over her recipes and gorgeous photographs. Doesn't she have the best job?!

xoxo,

Melina

P.S. For those wondering, the song is "Comptine D'Un Autre L'Apres Midi" from none other than Yann Tiersen. You might recognize this song from Amelie.

{images via tartlette}

Vogue Italia

2011-02-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

Good thing I splurged and bought a pair of Hunter rain boots this fall, I love how she wears them! I'm inspired to wear them with shorts or a dress, when the weather gets warmer of course.

I hope you all had a lovely Valentine's Day! As I am currently single, I was tempted to buy a heart-shaped pizza for myself but I found it to be a bit excessive (especially because I lack any measure of self-control around pizza). Instead I bought myself a heart-shaped Reese's peanut butter cup, my favorite candy! All in all, a wonderful day.

xox,

Melina

{images via fashiongonerogue}

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T08:50:00.000-08:00

I'm leaving you today with several stills from one of my favorite movies, Breathless. I hope your day is full of love!

xoxo,

Melina

P.S. Here and here are some Valentine's Day sweetness

{image via weheartit}

Lovely Quote

2011-02-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole,but true beauty in a Woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she knows."

-Audrey Hepburn

{image via weheartit}

J.Crew Inspired Spring Hair

2011-02-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

The ever inspiring Joanna Goddard, over at A Cup of Jo, loved J.Crew's new Spring 2011 lookbook messy side ponytail so much that she asked her "hair genius" friend to re-create it. Luckily for us, Joanna posted all of the details on her blog! If you couldn't tell by now, I am obsessed with hair tutorials!

Here is a visual step-by-step of how to do this incredible hair, but if you're like me and you need more in-depth instructions, don't hesitate to hop on over here to get all the details.

Unfortunately I may have to wait a while to rock this hair since I'm awkwardly growing out my bangs and rely on a french braid. I could make it work though. Yes, challenge accepted!

Have a lovely day!

xox,

Melina

{images via acupofjo}

Boy. by Band of Outsiders

2011-02-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

I love everything about these polaroids for the new Spring collection by Band of Outsiders. It also doesn't hurt that Kirsten Dunst is modeling, and the images make me long for the warm Spring weather! I can't wait for winter to be over so I can have my own tea party outside too.

Oh, and thank you for the well wishes on my exam! I feel that it went well enough, considering I barely studied.

C'est la vie,

Melina

{images via bandofoutsiders}

Guess What?

2011-02-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

I discovered that I am able to do a HEADSTAND in yoga! I feel so accomplished! Since I was the only person in my 6:30 Sunrise Yoga class I got to choose what I wanted to focus on. I chose ab work because I'm trying to get rid of my winter fluff. First we started with twists, then breathing exercises, and before I knew it I was upside down on the wall!

My goal is to be able to do exactly what the person is doing in this picture. Soon enough I'll be there!

What a way to start the morning!

xoxo,

Melina

{image via naturallynina}

Hello, Monday

2011-02-04T08:40:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend! I spent a great deal of my time procrastinating when I was supposed to be studying for a psychology midterm I have later this afternoon. Truth be told, I have yet to even open my textbook. Instead, I've been catching up on everyone's blogs and obsessing over one of my favorite band, Fleet Foxes, new song! I can't wait for their new album to come out May 3rd!

Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues by subpop

Here's to cramming for my midterm!

xoxo,

Melina

{image via annaleaelizabeth}

Carrie week!

2011-02-03T12:22:00.000-08:00

Tutu Carrie

Funky Carrie

Menswear Carrie

Easy Carrie

One of my favorite style bloggers, B. Jones, just finished up Carrie week over on her blog. Needless to say, now I can't stop looking at her pictures, and I started re-watching Sex and the City for my own inspiration. Oh, and B. Jones even has Carrie hair tutorials! For more pictures, follow the link below.

Xox,

Mel

{images via bjonesstyle}

Happy (Chinese) New Year!

2011-02-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

On the Chinese Calendar, today is the start of the year of the Rabbit! Chinese astrologers are predicting quiet, positive and inspiring things to happen this year. Sounds good, right? Well, Rabbit years are also an excellent time for arts, culture, world diplomacy (please!), and focusing on the family. To read more about this, follow this link.

I don't know about you, but I find astrology to be quite fun. I can't wait to see if the astrologer's projections for the year will be correct, here's to hoping!

xo,

Melina

{image via weheartit}

Spring Is In The Air

2011-02-01T08:54:00.000-08:00

This morning I went to a sunrise yoga class, which was one of the best classes I've ever gone to! When I went into the studio this morning it was pitch black outside, then when I left I walked out into the a gorgeously sunny day (not a cloud in the sky!). What a way to start the day! Now I sit here drinking my tea and eating a grapefruit and scrambled eggs thinking of how I cannot wait for spring to come! Thank goodness I nanny today and get to play at the park, I must be outside!

Happy (almost) Spring!

love,

Melina

P.S. Aren't you excited for the cherry blossoms to bloom?

{image via weheartit}

Just a thought...

2011-01-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

{image via etc}

P.S.

2011-01-31T08:53:00.001-08:00

I love this layered look! I'm taking inspiration from it as I get dressed this morning.

xo,

{image via thesatorialist}

Portlandia

2011-01-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

If you have not seen Portlandia on IFC, you really should. It pokes fun at the hipster sub-culture of Portland, Oregon and the Northwest in general. It's absolutely hilarious because the characters are such stereotypes!

Assuming that you read design blogs, you'll be the first to understand why they are making fun of the bird trend. They are everywhere!

Fun fact about Melina:

I am terribly afraid of birds. That being said, I can completely relate to the sheer terror at the end of this video!

Happy Monday!

xoxo,

Melina

Up

2011-01-27T12:00:00.000-08:00

If you recall, I love Up! If you STILL haven't seen it, then I must insist that you add it to your Netflix queue immediately (I do believe it is still on instant streaming!). If you have had the pleasure of seeing this movie, and you enjoy live-action films from the mid 1960's, I'm sure you'll enjoy this "premake" trailer for Up.

You may have recognized scenes from these movies to make the "premake" of Up:

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, The Red Balloon, Superman, The Wizard of Oz, The Muppet Movie, Follow Me Boys, Mackenna's Gold, Benji, A Boy and His Dog, Mysterious Island, The Doberman Gang, The Alvin Show, Posse, One of Our Dinosaurs is Missing, The Island at the Top of the World, Zeppellin, Stephen King's It, Hollywood Hotel, Jonny Quest, Peter Pan's Flight, Habanera from Carmen, Always.

xo,

Melina

Super Mamika

2011-01-27T09:01:00.000-08:00

When French photographer Sacha Goldberger noticed his 91 year-old Hungarian grandmother was becoming depressed, he found the perfect remedy: super hero photoshoot! What a lovely grandson, eh?

Note: To read Mamika's full story, click the link below.

I especially love the last photograph, which are your favorites?

xoxo,

{via mymodernmet}

Bicycle, bicycle!

2011-01-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm in the market for a bike. A road bike, more specifically. This quarter is quite busy that I really can't be bothered with being late. It doesn't help that Seattle metro is notorious for having a terrible sense of time and constantly makes me late, which is irritating and embarrassing. I've been scouring craiglist for a while now, but I have not seen anything within my price range until yesterday. I hope I'm not jinxing myself, but I love this bike and I can't wait to ride it everywhere!

Confession: I haven't even seen this bike in person yet, but this hasn't stopped me from looking at etsy shops and amazon for cute bike accessories!

xo,

Melina

{image via ridesabike}

Voilà!

2011-01-25T07:35:00.000-08:00

You've probably seen this image somewhere in the blogosphere and racked your brain trying to figure out how to do it. Well look no further, my dears. There is now a step-by-step guide with pretty pictures!!

Side note: I don't usually like light hair on top/dark hair on bottom combo, but I love her colors! I'm thinking that I may need to try another color now.

I only used some of the images, so if you need more than just a couple of pictures to tell you how to do this please go here for all the details!

Let me know how this goes! I think my hair may be a bit too long, but I'm going to give it a go anyways.

Happy Tuesday!

xo,

Mel

{photos via thisisglamorous}

Mushaboom

2011-01-18T08:55:00.001-08:00

I have had this song stuck in my head (not in an annoying way though), so I thought I'd share it with you this morning! It makes me think of how I would like my life to be. A simple one.

Happy Monday!

xo,

Melina

That's it...

2011-01-15T16:37:00.000-08:00

Free People January from FreePeople on Vimeo.

...I'm growing out my bangs.

Have a lovely weekend!

xo,

Melina

{video via coolistheessence}

Happy 1/11/11!!!

2011-01-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Get your party glasses on!

Just for fun, can you guess who this is?!

xx,

Melina

{image via googleimages}

Tuesday Quote...

2011-01-11T07:30:00.001-08:00

"I always knew the woman I wanted to be. I knew I wanted to be a woman who was independent, a woman who was in the driving seat, a woman who didn't need for the man to decide"

Diane Von Furstenberg

{image via weheartit}

Happy Monday

2011-01-10T07:30:00.000-08:00

How was your weekend? Mine was incredibly laid back, but went by too quickly, as always. The big event of the weekend was a mini-girl's night out on the town where my girlfriends and I ate lots of gelato and went to see Black Swan. This movie was ...

Legen---wait for it---dary!

It was such an intense yet beautiful film. For those of you whom have seen it: I ended up getting a bad hang nail yesterday evening and I was so afraid to touch it that I just put a band-aid on it. This movie further terrified me to get my nails trimmed with scissors; this is why I will continue to bite my nails.

If you haven't seen this movie yet, I highly recommend it. And, before I head off to start my day, can we just discuss how teeny tiny Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis were?! It is so hard to believe that that is what they looked like with the camera adding ten pounds. Wowza.

What did you do this weekend? And have you seen Black Swan?

xoxo,

Mel

{image via weheartit}

Scandinavian Style

2011-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't this house gorgeous! It makes me embrace my Scandinavian heritage since this is EXACTLY my style! Not only are there multiple crystal chandeliers throughout for a bit of glamour, but it also showcases that "lived in" look that I can't get enough of. Let's not forget those herringbone floors either! Now I'm in love...

xo,

{images via skonahem}

New Year's Resolution #54

2011-01-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Though some may not be into the idea of listing their resolutions for the new year, I am. Like everyone else, most of my new changes end up falling by the wayside. One thing I refuse to let slip away is my resolution to go to yoga at least once a week. Not such a hard thing to do, especially because my yoga studio is literally right across the street from me. If anything, it would be a bit embarrassing if I didn't keep up with this new routine because I would be taunted every day walking to my classes.

Another reason I need to keep this resolution is to find a calm escape. With a full course load (thank you university for insisting that I need 17 credits of math and science to graduate when all I want to take is art classes!), I also nanny two sets of twins five days a week. Yes. Two separate sets of twins. Thankfully they are both boy/girl fraternal twins so they even each other out as far as fighting goes, but they are a lot to handle. Three days a week I nanny the 3-year olds, who are a bit of a challenge, and twice a week I nanny the 2-year olds, who are wonderful. Needless to say, I need all the energy I can get as well as a place to myself.

Tomorrow is my first class of 2011, as well as the week. Hopefully I'll be alright, I'm still quite sore in my arms and bum from snowboarding. Wish me luck!

xoxo,

P.S. I'm not going to lie, I also made a resolution to have a body like Blake Lively's. This is why I am essentially making myself go every week.

{image via sandyhonig}

Comfy Chic

2011-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if it is because I'm a Seattleite or not, but I love it when I see someone rocking Dansko shoes. They aren't just for nurses and waitresses, I feel anyway. What I love most about this entire look is the color palette, and the simple elegant styling. And, please, can we just talk about the gorgeous elbow-pads on that sweater! As much as I adore these types of sweaters, somehow I do not own any. What's the deal? Perhaps this will be yet another New Year's Resolution. Am I able to keep adding to my list of resolutions?

From the comments on The Satorialist, these shoes are a bit controversial. I'm curious, what do you think? I own a pair, as I live in the Northwest and am a Barista, but I am a bit reluctant to wear them in public. Any thoughts?

Happy Tuesday!

{image via thesatorialist}

Missed Opportunity

2011-01-03T19:34:00.000-08:00

This goes out to my ex-boyfriend: Happy Birthday.

xo,

Melina

{image via designcrush}

Lula Love

2011-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

I love how haunting these photographs are. Hard to believe that's Lula favorite Kristin Dunst, right? I keep checking my local Barnes & Nobles to see if they have the new issue of Lula, so far my luck hasn't been too swell. These photographs are too gorgeous to just have in jpeg, I need them in print so I can frame them! I'm also on the lookout for every one of Kristin's outfits!

Happy Monday!

xoxo,

{images via moodboard}

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T21:11:00.000-08:00

I hope 2011 brings to you whatever you wish for!

I'm starting off 2011 by following through with one of my many resolutions: Be a "Yes" (wo)man. I am resolving to be more open to invitations, and am taking my brother up on going snowboarding with he and his girlfriend tomorrow. I haven't been snowboarding since middle school and I'm not the most graceful individual so this should be fun for others to watch! Pending that I survive todays events, I will let you know how it goes.

Salut! Cin cin!

xo Mel

{image via weheartit}

I'm back...almost

2010-09-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

Why, hello there! First off, let me begin by whole heartedly apologizing for taking an unannounced summer vacation from blogging. My excuse is that I have been working two, and sometimes three, jobs. Needless to say, I haven't had much time to spare. When I have been able to squeeze in some time on the internet I have been scouring craigslist in search of anything to furnish and decorate my new flat, I will post pictures once everything is all set up! This brings us up to today*!

*warning: long post ahead.

I'm happy to say that big things are, finally, happening for me.

A. It has taken me four years, two too late, but I finally picked a university major and minor (whew!). My indecisiveness has finally stopped being a problem, and I may or may not have read a couple of career books this summer-might I recommend The Renaissance Soul: Life Design for People with Too Many Passions to Pick Just One written by Margaret Lobenstine, for those who are indecisive. What I took away from this book is that I need to have an umbrella career, one that includes a few of my many interests so that I won't get bored with doing the same thing everyday. Well, I suppose I should tell you what I decided on majoring and minoring in already (sorry, I forgot to add that bit). I'm officially majoring in Art History and minoring in Italian. I had a bit of a struggle between choosing between Italian and French, but the French class that I needed was full. C'est la vie. Italian it is!

B. I bought a ticket to the UK! For the month of December my best friend and I are going to go backpacking all around England, Ireland, Scotland! We're going to try to hit Wales but we don't have any contacts there as we do in the other countries. And don't you worry, I realize that it's going to be cold. Keep in mind that I'm from Seattle so I don't expect it to be much of a difference in climate, thank god I love cold weather though!

C. I don't know if I should post this, seeing as I'm quite superstitious, but I am applying at Anthropologie for a Visual Display Internship. If I get it, then I'd be able to learn all the secrets on how they do their incredible displays! And this goes without saying, but of course I would post the How-To's on here for you. *Fingers crossed*!

D. I got a job as a Nanny to 20 month old fraternal twins, Ina and Ilan. They are absolutely adorable but I'm nervous because I've never had to nanny twins before. Wish me luck because I'm just about to leave for my first day!

If you're still reading this, thank you. There was just a lot to say! I am still working quite a bit but I'll get back to blogging regularly next week, and I can't wait!

I hope everything is going well for you, I'd love to hear about it!

P.S. Aren't you excited for fall?! It's my absolute favorite season! I've been wearing my mustard yellow "autumnal" scarf a lot lately to help bring in the best season of the year!

{photo via travelhighlights}

Redhead Stunners

2010-06-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's all of my studying of the Pre-Raphaelites for Art History, but my obsession for red hair will not fade. If you don't know about the Pre-Raphs, most of the women in their art had red hair and were called "redhead stunners". I am just about as much in love with red hair as they were.

The reason for this mini Art History lesson is that I am getting my hair dyed today, more specially in two hours, and I have not picked what shade of red to get. Ahhh the pressure! These are what I'm thinking.

What to do, what to do...

{photos via google}

An Ideal Friday...

2010-06-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Since I have Thursdays and Fridays off of work, Fridays are really my Sundays. Still with me? My ideal way to spend my last leisurely day of my weekend is to go on a lovely bike ride in the country and fill my wicker baskets with food fit for a gourmet picnic. Oh how I wish I could jump into these photographs... It's not only 2010, but also the 21st century! How has no one figured out how to do this yet?! Where are our priorities?

In any case, happy Friday! You made it!

{photos via christinerudolph}

I. Want. This.

2010-06-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

I feel like everything would be right in the world if this camper and car were parked in my driveway. Strike that. I would rather live in this camper and travel around the world. This post really isn't helping my chronic wanderlust. The more I think about it, the more I realize that I would do unspeakable things to get this into my life.

I love the patio set too! All I would need to add to the table is a fresh baguette, brie cheese, heirloom tomatoes and wine. Then again, maybe I would just wait for lunchtime.

{photos via studiodalu}

Just Because...

2010-06-22T23:48:00.000-07:00

Oh James Dean, you steal my heart time and time again *swoon*. I am such a sucker for glasses!

I'd love to get to know you all better so I must ask, what is your ideal guy like?

{photo via wehearit}

Summer Reading List

2010-06-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

Now that it is officially summer, it is time for my annual Summer Reading List. So far I have put these books on my list: Emma by Jane Austen, The Crowning of Calla Lily by Rebecca Wells, Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (I tend to re-read this every summer, and especially with the movie coming out in August I feel the need to read this again), The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, and Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen.

Obviously this is quite a short list. I want to try to read at least five more books this summer. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations?

I'm curious, what is on your list?

{photos via weheartit}

Another Mild Obsession...

2010-06-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

Tea Towels. I don't know if this is part of the passage to adulthood, but lately I have been (mildly) obsessing over tea towels. This also means I'm turning into my mom, she can't resist lovely tea towels either. I used to get so bored shopping for linens with her but now I am ready to abduct her from work and go get some new tea towels, specifically these!

Which is your favorite? I think the first towel is a perfect personification of me. My friends all make fun of me and call me a lush, I can't argue though since it's true. I do draw the line at having wine for breakfast, it wouldn't mix well with my typical oatmeal with some soy milk.

Aren't you tempted to load up your kitchen with these? I know I am!

{photos via keepcalmgallery}

Don't Worry...

2010-06-10T11:25:00.001-07:00

...I'm still alive.

Like I prefaced last week, I am in the middle of moving back home for the summer and studying for finals. Thankfully I got done with finals yesterday so now I get to focus all my energy on moving. Woo hoo.

I can't wait to get back to blogging full time again, no more of these lame excuses! I hope you are all having a lovely and relaxing week!

{photo via weheartit}

Music Monday

2010-06-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

How was everyone's long weekend? I worked the entire time and studied. Nothing terribly exciting. Oh, and I finished my final photography project that is due next week! I love those rare occasions when I actually finish my projects and assignments in advance.

As I go into finals and moving out of my apartment, I must tell you that my posting will be a bit light for the next couple weeks. But to start this week off right, I decided to share with you a hilarious music video from my latest band obsession, "The Black Keys".

Enjoy!

Simple Summer Style

2010-05-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

This is such a perfect summer outfit! I'm just dying to find a gorgeous white dress like hers. I think I also need to add some more gladiator sandals into my spring/summer wardrobe. Really, I just need an excuse to go shopping, I'm so bored with my clothes.

Now I'm off to do some online window shopping!

{photo via thesatorialist}

Quail Summer 2010

2010-05-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

I love these looks from the Summer 2010 collection from Quail. I'm not sure how I feel about the necklace with the third outfit though, I much prefer simple jewelry. Don't you just love the background though? I'm feeling inspired to do some doodling, or even copy this entirely and redecorate a white wall in my apartment! Ooh that sounds fun!

{photos via quail}

Style Love

2010-05-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for summer so that I can buy tons of these gorgeous flowers! They instantly dress up your outfit and are unique, which I love. By the way, this chic woman is Emerson of EmersonMade, the designer and artist behind these enviable flowers. Of course I included stripes, but I think my favorite outfits are third and last. I love her hair too, it makes me want to go back to blonde.

I tried to practice some restrain, but if you'd like to check out the rest of her outfits or buy something head on over to her website. As terrified of birds as I am, the pictures from her store kind of make me rethink this. Her birds look...nice?

I Heart Vespas!

2010-05-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! It has just come to my attention that my friend is selling her vespa that has only been used twice! She is so desperate to get rid of it, though I can't imagine why, and she's offering it to me for cheap! I'm awaiting how much "cheap" actually is, but I'm hoping that I can afford it! My other friend and I are very excited about becoming two biker chicks this summer. We may even start a gang, who knows haha.

{photo via fyeahvespas}

It's Beer Week!

2010-05-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

It's finally here- Seattle Beer Week! I couldn't be anymore thrilled! This past weekend was Street Fair and The Seattle Cheese Festival, and I didn't let my allergies to dairy stop me! This month has been amazing, needless to say. In celebration of arguably the best week in Seattle, my friends and I are headed out to Quinn's Pub on Capitol Hill tonight to indulge in some fantastic beer samplers. I don't think I could get any more excited!

How was your weekend? I ended up working on Saturday, then I weeded my mom's gardens (a belated Mother's Day gift) before my Grandpa's 89th birthday party. Now I am completely sunburnt and I look like a lobster. But I felt better after indulging in some cheese at the Seattle Cheese Festival!

Have a great Monday!

{photo via typetide}

Tutorial: Easy Fishtail Braid

2010-05-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

I love braids. It's as simple as that. So when I opened my Goop newsletter I was so excited to see a tutorial on how to do a fishtail braid, french braid style. Huzzah! I know how to do lots of braids, but for some reason I have a mental block with this style.

I'll have to alter this a bit because of my bangs, but I can't wait to try this out! It's so simple yet gorgeous!

{photo via goop}

Brookish

2010-05-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

Today is the perfect opportunity to look at my favorite etsy shop, Brookish. As you may not know, but will soon find out, I am slightly in love with all things Jane Austen. Yes, my friends and I have an annual Jane Austen movie night and watch pretty much all the movies, or as many as we can. I have no idea why I haven't ordered all of these mugs, perhaps it is it my lack of money. In any case, I certainly think about them. Aren't they lovely?

This is definitely my motto!

Oh, Mrs. Bennet...

And, of course, Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth...on a dishtowel! I'm in love.

I only posted three items, but there are forty to choose from! Is the excitement building yet? Please check out Brookish's etsy store if you're in the market for some more Jane Austen in your life.

{photos via brookish}

I'm sick...

2010-05-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

I'm sick. This never happens. I blame my lack of exercise, sleep and well-rounded nutrition from the last couple weeks of cramming for mid-terms. If only I were back in high school where I would be able to take a sick day, and maybe stretch it out for a couple days. Instead I have a photography project I must print and mount, not so difficult but quite time consuming. I also have to present my photography and talk about it; this is going to be the difficult part as I sound like an eighty-nine year old who has been chain smoking since the Great Depression who also happens to be a retired coal miner. I completely skipped the sexy, raspy Scarlett Johansson voice that I so long for.

C'est la vie,

{photo via weheartit}

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2010-05-11T13:27:00.001-07:00

I made these delicious cookies last night for a girl in my photography who let me use her camera when my battery died. Thanks Leyna! After I finished baking them I realized that I was supposed to make them for my class on Thursday. Oh well, more cookies for me! I ended up being out of white flour, that's what happens when you assume, so I used whole wheat flour. I think I'll try them with white flour next time just to see what the difference is like.

I highly recommend this recipe, the cookies are so thick and chewy! Just typing this is making me crave another (*runs into the kitchen and grabs one, or two). Now that's better!

{photos via smittenkitchen}

Soho Bikes

2010-05-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

I love the seat in the first photo, and of course I adore the stripes! Doesn't the blonde woman look like Julie Delpy in 2 Days in Paris? I envy both of their eclectic styles.

I really need to get a chic bicycle, my obsession is only growing.

{images via thesatorialist}

Lazy Monday

2010-05-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

How was your weekend? I got back quite late last night from the long drive back from my brother's graduation. By the way, thank you all for your great book recommendations! I can't wait to read them, they all sound amazing.

I just want to stay in bed all day, I'm exhausted. Thankfully my photography class got cancelled so I finally get a day to veg out. I was just perusing YouTube and found tons of covers by the gorgeous and talented Kina Grannis. I was so excited to see that she has an album out and an adorable music video.

Enjoy! Have a great day!