Thursday, June 11, 2015

Hotel Bel-Air Spa by La Prairie





(The last photo is from genlux.com. View of the Enclave private patio). 


Last week I was lucky enough to experience the Diamond Perfection Body Treatment at the exquisite Hotel Bel Air Spa by La Prairie. Just the name of this service oozes luxury. Needless to say the treatment itself was absolutely divine. Beginning with an invogarating body scrub and polish, the service is completed with a caviar cream massage. The tranquility of the spa helps completely soothe the mind, and you leave feeling as a new person even if you just came for a quick mani.

A few of my other favorite treatments include the La Prairie Signature Facial with added CACI micro current (this facial is only offered at La Prairie spas and a some European spas and the results are unprecedented), and the Healthy Habits Package (a 60 minute massage and facial followed by tea service and vegan and gluten free snacks on a private patio).

The hotel itself was renovated a few years ago, and in my opinion evolved into the most prestigious and innovative hotel in Los Angeles. Tucked away in the upscale area of Bel Air, this resort-like property is beyond beautiful and private. It also serves as a perfect location for a staycation, because it literally feels like you're no longer in LA. Or you can just spend the whole day at the spa, which happens to be the only Five Star Spa in Los Angeles.

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Trending: Overalls




Dress by The Addison Story. Bandeau by Image Boutique. Shoes by Not Rated. Bag by Michelle Fantaci for Lauren Merkin. Glasses are Vintage Dior. 



I remember my first pair of overalls was in fifth grade-- they were dark burgundy and corduroy. I wore them every possible chance I had. Fast forward 16 years later and the trend is back! Granted my burgundy corduroy favorites are long gone, I am happy I can step it up a notch this time and add a little sass to the look. My overall dress can be worn both for daytime or nighttime, depending on how you accessorize it. Its versatility and comfort make it a wardrobe staple, at least for this season.

Sunday, June 7, 2015

Sunday Morning Ritual (Where To Get Great Coffee and Breakfast in LA)





Dress and Belt are Vintage. Shoes by Bamboo. Glasses were purchased at a Boutique on Olympic & Genesee in LA (cannot remember the name). 


I feel like everyone has a certain routine they always save for Sunday, whether it's brunch or watching a favorite show. My Sunday morning ritual has become Bristol Farms coffee (and most likely a croissant) followed by church, and when I miss one or the other my day just isn't the same.

I choose Bristol Farms for two simple reasons-- the food is amazing and fresh, and no lines/crowds. I normally come around 10AM and can get in and out in about 5 minutes. Normally I pick up my favorite combination of 1/2 decaf and 1/2 regular coffee and a croissant, and eat on the way to church. When my boyfriend is able to drag himself out of bed to join me, we pick up french toast and eggs or sausage from the hot bar. 

If you've never heard of Bristol Farms, it's kind of like a boutique version of Whole Foods-- they have a great selection of pre-made meals as well as a great organic variety of produce. By the way their bakery/dessert section is hard to beat by most restaurants. Do yourself a favor a check it out! 

Saturday, June 6, 2015

C is for Culottes at Cecconi's




Top and Jacket by Forever 21. Culottes by Free People. Bag by Aldo. Shoes by Christian Louboutin. 


When I asked my boyfriend if he liked my outfit he replied "I don't get it."

Frankly speaking, I am positive he was talking about my culottes. Although a little hard to tell in the photos above, they are actually lace culottes. As a huge fashion trend follower, I fell in love with these culottes when I first saw them. I am the first to say most people will not understand this trend, but consider me shotgun on the bandwagon.

Last night I had a chance to debut my new loves with my love at Cecconi's. If you've never been to Cecconi's, picture a set from Entourage mixed with a cutout from Vogue-- very LA, very hip! People dress to impress here! Their food and drinks are also on point, but the ambiance certainly steals the spotlight. It's incredibly hard to get a reservation here on the weekends, so I recommend either coming late or planning a few weeks ahead.

Last night we stopped in for drinks and dessert; my boyfriend ordered the Picante De La Casa (with tequila) cocktail while I had the Gold Rush (with bourbon), and we both shared the cheese plate. I am not exactly a Tequila fan, but his drink was to die for! I decided this will be my drink of choice at Cecconi's (from now on). The cheese plate also comes with truffle oil (on a spoon), be careful this stuff is dangerous! I am still obsessing over it a day later.

Thursday, June 4, 2015

My Pharell Hat



Hat by Forever 21. Dress by Old Navy. Shoes by Aldo. Necklace by Urban Outfitters. Black Ring by Guess. 



Just as the title so vividly describes, my mom literally refers to my hat as the "Pharell" hat. Whatever it may be, I love the fedora hat trend. It's edgy, fun, and best of all masks any bad hair day.

My fedora is a dark red/maroon color which I thought would work well paired with a bright red dress. The dress by the way is one of my favorite wardrobe pieces and I got it on sale for $11. Who doesn't love a bargain? I feel like I can effortlessly throw it on and still feel cute. Dress it up, dress it down, and I won't feel bad when it's time to retire it. 

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Weekday Brunch at Bottega Louie's





I cut the tag off my dress a while back and unfortunately do not remember the brand. Belt by Anne Klein. Shoes by French Sole. Glasses by Givenchy. Bag by KC Jagger. 


I am lucky to have a flexible schedule working for a hotel. Weekday brunches are the norm, and the best thing is no crowds and reservation availability at some of LA's best restaurants.

My girlfriend Elisa and I indulged in a yummy Tuesday brunch at Bottega Louie. I had the french toast, which was amazing; thankfully not overly greasy and soggy (I hate when it's literally dripping butter). She had the yogurt and granola, with berries (looked very fresh, but I have to admit I forgot to try it). Their ice coffee was also a big hit in my book (and I am pretty serious about my morning coffee). They are also known for their desserts, especially the macaroons. I recommend the praline and espresso (needless to say I love my coffee).

Monday, June 1, 2015

First Day of Summer







Top is Vintage. Shorts by Forever 21. Shoes by Kendall and Kylie for Madden Girl. Glasses by Ray Ban. Nail Polish by Essie in Marshmallow. 


Happy June 1st everyone! We had perfect weather in Los Angeles so my boyfriend and I walked around Beverly Dr. and credit goes to him for taking a few wonderful snapshots.

Beverly Dr. has some fabulous brunch/breakfast places our favorites being the French bakery Chaumont (the croissants are amazing) and Brooklyn Water Bagel Company. If you happen to find yourself at the latter around 9/10AM you'll probably catch a glimpse of Larry King chowing down on amazingly fresh bagels. I also love Honor Bar for evening drinks-- delicious cocktail with an upscale, yet unpretentious atmosphere. 

There are few places in LA which are pedestrian friendly, and Beverly Dr. is great for both locals and tourists. It's Beverly Hills trendy but not over the top. I always feel very relaxed and comfortable walking down the street. You would be hard-pressed to get a table for brunch or lunch on the weekends, but if you're ever searching for a new place to dine and explore, I would give it a shot.