messy up do

There's a girl in my workout classes who always manages to pull off the most awesome looking casual do. You guys know the type. She doesn't need bobby pins or even a mirror to look completely effortless and cool. I am not one of these people!

I've stood for longer than I care to admit in front of a mirror attempting to pull off a lighthearted hairstyle like the one seen above. The result? A boring low bun and a boiling temper.

Perhaps it's the optimist in me, or perhaps it's that I'm always trolling for cute up dos to save overdrying the mane my hair this time of year. Regardless, I'm feeling good about my chances with the above look.

Click here for the directions.

Isn't it pretty? What's your "go to" look for second day hair?

(images courtesy style caster)

blackberry smash

Digging Design*Sponge's "Behind the Bar" series.

How yummy does the Blackberry Smash sound?

It feels like the perfect drink for this time of year. Fresh and fruity yet still packing enough substance (read: whiskey) to feel right for winter.

At this stage of the season, are any of you guys almost repulsed by the thought of hot and/or cinnamon-spiced cocktails? Blech.

The below recipe was created by Andrew and Carrie Purcell. He's a photographer and she's a food stylist. How fun are they? Check out their blog Pictures & Pancakes (featured not only on Design*Sponge, but also Goop).

Happy drinking!

Blackberry Smash Ingredients

• 5 blackberries
• 6-8 mint leaves, torn (plus more for garnish)
• ½ small red plum, peeled and diced (plus more for garnish)
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• ½ ounce cointreau
• 2 ounces whiskey

Blackberry Smash Methodology

Makes 1 serving

In a cocktail shaker, muddle blackberries, mint, plum and simple syrup until broken up. Add ice, cointreau and whiskey. Shake vigorously 12 to 15 seconds. Strain into a low ball glass filled with ice and garnish with a slice of plum and sprig of mint. Enjoy!

(images courtesy andrew purcell and design*sponge)

fireworks

Fireworks make my heart go all aflutter. I don't think I'll ever lose my childlike fascination with them.

I've tried to take photos of them for years with very little success. From hanging off of fire escapes to standing too long in the street, I never have succeeded in capturing that feeling.

While perusing this pretty blog, I came across the above photos of Jessica enjoying Pierre Le Hors "Firework Studies." Aren't these grainy black-and-white images beautiful?

Click here to watch a video of the entire book.

(images courtesy something concerning everything occurring)

retro headband

How beautiful is Michelle Williams? I have a girl crush on the Brooklyn mom. She always looks so chic.

Her Golden Globes look was one of my favorites. That cute little pixie cut topped with a retro headband? Adorable.

I love the idea of incorporating a headband for a formal occasion. While I dig Michelle's Farrow-inspired cut, I do know that it will not be making an appearance on my head.

Still, thinking of picking up this pretty headband from Shopbop and pairing it with side swept bangs and a simple low bun. It might be just the ticket for a friend's wedding next month.



(image courtesy the frisky and style bistro)

roy

Thanks to a recent movie night where S and I watched David Lynch's Blue Velvet (whoa), my Spotify is quite content to play through Roy Orbison's songs.

As a youngster, I always liked his music, but as an adult I've grown to love it. From "In Dreams" to "Crying," his voice kills me.

Check out a few of my fave Orbison tunes here. By the by, "Oh, Pretty Woman" did not make the list.

baby bear slippers

Stop it!

These Baby Bear slippers from babycricket's Etsy shop break my heart.

Recommended for ages 3 to 6 months. Are you kidding me?

These would make an awesome birthday gift for one lucky little babe.

I secretly wish they came in my size...

I wish every day was Friday. Even if on this particular Friday I am home sick with the sniffles.

Putting all my efforts into getting well soon. Our homeboy O is in town this weekend and we are excited about a long overdue catch-up session. If I'm going to hang with dudes, I'll need to bring my A game.

Also, the forecast is promising snow and I'm pumped to wear my new boots.

Happy weekend time!

P.S. So fun and so true.

P.P.S. Did ya catch the Gershwin at the end? I'm looking at you, PeanutJB.

(image courtesy walking around)