This & That: No. 31

Today’s This & That is full of items and books to invest in as you cultivate a divine sanctuary and infinitely chic wardrobe. Oh, and a bit of culture and food as well . . .

~Books

~Habitually Chic: Creativity at Work by Heather Clawson

Beginning today, the founder of the well-known and much loved blog Habitually Chic, Heather Clawson will release her first book – Habitually Chic: Creativity at Work. Full of photographs taken by the author herself, Clawson takes her readers inside the minds and homes of other creatively talented minds and worlds to reveal their stories, insights on where they find their inspiration and how they wound earning their success. Some of the people she interviews are – Jenna Lyons, Peter Som, Jonathen Adler, Joel Chen and Miranda Brooks – just to name a few.

On a personal note, it is thrilling to see Heather’s hard work and passion come to fruition via her first book. As a blogger first starting out, she was the first blogger I sought advice from, and I was beyond ecstatic when she responded many times to my endless questions. For that I will always be grateful.  I wish her much success and can’t wait for her book to arrive in my mailbox so that I can enjoy all that she has to share.

~The Things That Matter by Nate Berkus

Another worthwhile decor book is Nate Berkus’ most recent book of decor tricks and inspiration. Released on October 16th, The Things That Matter is Berkus’ most personal narrative as he opens up about his life, what has led him to live and appreciate the life he has created for himself. Inside he explains his philosophy that the things we bring into our homes and our lives indeed to significantly matter. Inviting readers into twelve different homes as well as his new recently remodeled Manhattan duplex, he demonstrates through images exactly how to decorate your sanctuary so that it too can be a true safe haven.

~Art Exhibits

~Mario Testino’s first solo museum exhibit “In Your Face”

Mario Testino’s fashion and editorial photography may be best recognized from the pages he fills in Vogue and Vanity Fair. Also regularly snapping images for Chanel and Burberry, Testino was the go-to photog of choice for Kate Moss’s lavish English country estate wedding two summers ago. Opened to the public inside Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts on October 21 and running through February 3, 2013, “In Your Face” offers a look at some of his most widely known and irreverence as well as exclusive photographs.

~Recipe

~Grilled Turkey and Brie Cranwich

Discovered on the blog Confections of a Foodie Bride, this updated version of one of my favorite leftover recipes after grand holiday dinners is something I believe I may have to try well before Thanksgiving arrives. With warm brie and cranberry-apricot chutney, this recipe is a gourmet version of a simple luxury you must indulge in.

~Shopping

~J.Crew Nora calf hair ballet flats

Ballet flats are a busy, stylish woman’s best friend, and the one staple I am still lacking when it comes to ballet flats is a leopard pair. J.Crew’s Nora calf hair ballet flats are an investment, but a quality investment that will last. Wear with straight leg jeans, your favorite blouse of any color, or as a beautiful accessory whenever an occasion calls for the little black dress, and be confident that you look fabulous.

~IRO Shena Jacket

Reminiscent of the classic Chanel tweed jacket, IRO’s Shena jacket is from IRO which was founded in 2002 by two French brothers who bring together vintage and city style. Fully lined and made of wool and alpaca fabric, the Shena Jacket would be a sophisticated choice to add to your closet to wear with jeans or with a simple pencil or full skirt.