This & That: No. 55

A few beauty discoveries, a just-released Francophile book to add to your library and chic ideas for your wardrobe and kitchen.

~Beauty

1. NARS blush orgasm

For years I have been reading rave reviews and recommendations of NARS blush in the color orgasm. Well, finally I stopped by their counter this past weekend at Nordstrom, and I couldn’t have been more impressed. With a touch of shimmer to add the illusion of a natural glow and beautiful perfect pink, the apple of your cheeks will thank you.

~Books

2. Paris: The Novel by Edward Rutherfurd

Being released today is a a novel, by an author I have come to appreciate, that I have been eager to read and patiently waiting for. Having read previous titles by Edward Rutherfurd, New York (click here to read my review) and London, his ability to weave history with personal fictitious narratives is a treat to dive into at the end of a long day or while driving great distances. Having listened to New York on audio tape and having read London in hardback, his epic novels teach you about the city you already love and take you back in time to a place you’ve been all too curious to understand and indulge in.

~Decor

3. West Elm’s Market Shop in Shop

Last Friday I was invited to take a one-on-one tour in Portland’s West Elm store as they debuted their Market Shop in Shop which offers items for the kitchen and home beyond interior design furnishings. With 70% of the items made in the USA and many products for men, the market shop offers smaller items such as Schmidt Brothers knives as well as grand items such as the Smeg retro refrigerator and gas stove.

With their modern aesthetic and chic style running throughout the entire collection, if you are wanting to add a bit of contemporary sophistication to your kitchen and home, stop in or peruse their shop online (click here).

4. Pixo LED Table Lamp (white)

Recently, while skimming through WSJ, I came across a decor editor’s recommendation of Pixo’s LED bedside lamp that she can use as night which won’t keep her husband up, allows her to complete her late night reading and charges her phone all at the same time. With a sleek modern look (white or black is available), it provides a soft, but necessary illumination for a singular reader. Perhaps the remedy you’ve been looking for?

~Perfume

5. Bottega Veneta Eau de parfum

While I will always be a fan of Chanel No. 5, I have been on the hunt for signature scent. One that blends modernity and femininity, as well as sensuality and strength. This past weekend I found what I was seeking while perusing the counters at Nordstrom. Bottega Veneta’s eau de parfum blends scents of plum and pink pepper, jasmine and leathery rustic strength to create a scent that works well for day and for evening, which is exactly what I need – simplicity and sophistication.

~Shopping

6. Emerson Fry A-line mod top in ivory

Made in soft cotton twill, Emerson Fry’s A-line mod top in ivory is calling my name. Paired with black cropped pants or chic shorts and espadrilles, this top provides coverage and contemporary style that would be perfect for summer evenings or daytime outings.