sale: Bauble Bar

it's safe to say I have a healthy obsession when it comes to jewels, and all things pretty and sparkly. (hey, it's a job requirement!) and while I love beautifully crafted pieces of jewelry, I love a trendy colorful statement necklace and all things costume too! when I saw that Bauble Bar was having a sale for Labor Day, I hopped over and took a peek at what they were discounting. so many bright statement necklaces, fun earrings, and great additions to your collection. the colors may be a bit bright for some people, especially heading into fall and winter, but not me! (#IdowhatIwant) here are some of my favorite pieces, and a couple that I scooped up for myself.

 Obriter Bib Necklace / Monochrome Galactic Drop Earrings / Crystal Vienna Collar Necklace

Buckle Bangle Bracelet / Tictac Drops Earrings

have you ever ordered from Bauble Bar? what are some of your favorite pieces from the end of summer sale?

xx, marissa

this weekend: saint anthony's feast

if you find yourself in the city this weekend (and haven't taken off for the cape, the vineyard, new hampshire or maine- like everyone else), the Saint Anthony's Feast is happening in the North End and a fun event if you're never experienced it. after living in the North End for going on 4 years, I've seen my fair share of feasts (Saint Aggripia happens right outside my bedroom window), but it's a fun event to take out-of-towners too. between the food (italian specialties, and standard fair/carnival food), games, stands selling italian items and special blessing water, music/performers- there's a lot to take in. but it's the parade when residents carry the giant life-size statue of Saint Anthony that really draw the crowds. north end streets that are tiny enough, are jam packed with more tourists than any other day. if you're around the city this weekend, head over to the North End Saturday or Sunday for some good ol' fashion Italian fun.

have you ever been to any of the North End feasts?

xx, marissa

a letter to my 18-year-old self: a lá Tickle Me Pink

I came across a post from Kelsey of Tickle Me Pink a few days ago, and loved the idea. I think it's so important to look back on how far you've come as a person, the changes you've made to your life, and the growing you've done since certain milestones. while her letter is to her 18-year-old self, I was 17 when I started college, but we'll just pretend ;)

dear marissa,

you figured it out. through all the bs that was stopping you from getting here, you're here. with the help of incredible people in your life, you accomplished what you wanted as a young teen visiting Boston and falling in love with the city, you're going to Suffolk. you're about to meet some of the most important people in your life, people who will change who you are as a person; some who will effect you for a bit, and some who will effect you for much, much longer. learn everything you can from all of the people that you choose to surround yourself with, but remember that you ultimately have the power to choose who is in your inner circle. if, and when, someone has extended their welcome in your life, send them on your way. ain't nobody got time for that. you will encounter awful girls who make you question everything about yourself, and shake your self-worth to the core, but that's okay. you'll make it out alive, and see how strong you are. you will pledge theta phi, something that you just considered a fun extra-curricular, but will play a huge part in your college experience. enjoy these first few years, because they are the best. you will have endless amounts of freedom and time, savor every minute of it. do stupid things at 2am because you can, and your best friends live next door. explore new neighborhoods, make new friends, stay out too late, and drink too much; this is what freshman year is all about, and the four years go by too fast. you will realize just how lucky you are to have the friends from home that you do, savor the time you have with them, and learn to incorporate them into your new friends group; it will make your life easier in the end. there is a girl at the end of the hall, you've seen her rushing off to soccer practice and heading out to parties on Friday nights, she will eventually become your best friend (you just don't know it yet). you will be so enthusiastic about the work/career that you plan on doing, and that's great, but don't put all your eggs in the law basket. i'm on good authority it doesn't work out the way you thought that it would, and again, that's okay. try not to try so hard- the girls that seem like they're the most carefree and having the most fun have a lot more going on under the surface that the world doesn't see; just be you, you're more than enough.

xoxo, marissa

"no makeup" makeup

as a makeup junkie, I love learning about new and unique brands and products. recently my boss was turned on to a brand that I had never heard of, Perricone MD, that specializes in what it calls, "no makeup" makeup. The concept sounded interesting enough, face makeup that perfects your skin without showing up on your skin. "Cake face" is one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to makeup; if you can see visible product on your skin, then you're doing something wrong. But it was seeing the products in action that made me really take notice. She was wearing the No Foundation Foundation and the No Blush Blush, and there was not a trace of product on her face. Her skin looked flawless, healthy and with the perfect bit of dewiness. While I personally am not a face makeup person (a bit of matte bronzes to contour my cheekbones, and a touch of cream blush for some color is all I do for face), if I was this would totally be a brand that I would invest in. I did notice however, that all the products (foundation, blush, bronzed, mascara, and lipstick) only come in one or two tones- not sure if it's the type of product that adjusts to your specific tone, but if you're lighter or darker than a mid toned tan, this may not be the brand for you. hopefully they'll expand their shade line to be more inclusive of ALL skin tones and shades.

what are some of your favorite product for getting a flawless face? have you ever heard of Perricone MD?

xx, marissa

cheap date: screening of Good Will Hunting

as a full blooded Bostonian, I love movies that are centered around the amazing city I call home. with so many amazing options to choose from (the Departed, the Town, the Boondock Saints, Mystic River, Fever Pitch), it's tough to pick a favorite, but Good Will Hunting definitely tops the list. it's refreshing to have a movie where crime and the mob aren't the focal point of the story, and it's also the movie that launched the amazing bromance that is Matt & Ben. with the unfortunate death of Robin Williams, this screening is a perfect opportunity to relive not only this amazing movie, but the role that won him an Academy Award.

catch the free screening at the Park at Channel Center in Fort Point (South Boston), starting at 8pm. for more info (including rain date info) check here.

xx, marissa

closet classics: chambray shirt

there are certain clothing pieces that should be staples in your closet (regardless of your age, career, or style), and the chambray shirt is absolutely one of them. I find myself wearing mine when I'm being super casual, and also when I'm more put together. they are insanely comfortable, and look good with just about anything that you pair it with. I've paired a classic chambray shirt from the Gap with two different looks, one for a more casual day (a weekend, running errands, working from home, or going to class) and one for a more put together day (wearing to work, out to lunch, a bridal/baby shower, first date, meeting the parents).

casual day: I love the idea of the classic chambray paired with a pair of basic black Pixie Pants from J. Crew. not only are they super comfortable, but they also look so much more put together than a pair of black leggings. perfect for errands, running around town, or for any day. I paired them with a pair of leopard mohair flats from Steve Madden that are my new obsession. I have a pair of smoking slippers that are super similar from a few seasons ago that are my go-to flat. some people may be scared off by the leopard print, but I'm a person who totally considers leopard a neutral; and a fun shoe kicks this basic outfit up a couple notches. even on a casual day, a girl can never be without a fun pop of color and jewels; I went with a bright pink Butter gloss from NYX and my favorite sparkly Pavé Link Bracelet from J. Crew.

dressier day: while I love chambray worn casual, my favorite way to wear this shirt is tucked into a high waisted a-line skirt. for this look I went with a pleated rugby skirt from the Gap in great neutral cream and tan stripes. I paired that with a perfect everyday pair of leather wedges from Steve Madden in the same neutral tan. this style shoe is one of my favorites, perfect for day or night, and can be dressed up or dressed down (and the slight wedge makes them super comfortable if you're wearing them all day for work, or out for drinks after). since the rest of the outfit is super neutral, I went with a bright orange/red Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick from Stila for a fun pop of color. a great tip if you're going out right from work and your makeup is looking a bit worn, add a fun pop of color to your lips and look instantly pulled together and chic! and finally for a bit of sparkle, because everyone needs a bit of sparkle, I went with a pair of my favorite Opal Cushion Blings from JoJo Loves You- a great neutral that you'll get tons of wear out of.

what's your favorite way to wear chambray? are you more of a casual girl, or do you like to mix the basic with something more girly?

xx, marissa

neighborhood faves: south end

working in the south end for the past year and a bit has given me a new appreciation for the neighborhood that I fell in love with during college. there are so many unique and interesting boutiques/studio spaces and some of the most amazing restaurants in the city, that it's easy to stick to the same places you know and love. based on recommendations from my bosses/their friends (some of who have lived in the neighborhood for 30+ years and seen the sub-par places come and go), I've branched out and tried new places/popped into boutiques that I may have missed. here is a round up of some of my faves:

DINE:

Myers + Chang- my hands down, favorite restaurant in the South End. whenever we're ordering in lunch for a birthday/celebration/just because at work, this is always my pick. it's fresh, real ingredient Asian cuisine, that will make it almost impossible to eat your standard Americanized Chinese food. the blackened udon noodles are my favorite, but their spring rolls, thai ginger chicken, and pork dumplings are all equally amazing.

The Beehive- is a restaurant that my roommate and I tried during last years Restaurant Week and instantly fell in love! during the warmer months the outdoor seating is the best- twinkle lights, small bistro tables, and perfect people watching. but inside and downstairs is what makes this restaurant truly amazing. the vibe is an old speak easy with a stage for jazz performers (every night!), small intimate tables, dark lighting, and thick drapes. there's also a great bar area that's perfect for grabbing drinks with girlfriends- the queen bee is my favorite (I'm a sucker for anything with champagne and elderflower). there isn't anything about this restaurant that isn't just the coolest. one of my favorite spots for bringing people who are new to the neighborhood.

Cinquecento- amazing Italian that defines it's style at "Roman Trattoria", whatever. gorgeous ambiance, perfect spot for a date night or girl's night out, or for after-work cocktails. my favorite dish is definitely the pollo al mattone, but the kale salad is a pretty close second (trust me, order it).

SHOP:

M. Flynn Studio- I may be a bit partial to this store for one reason or another, but if you're looking for a boutique that carries amazing designers (including their own in-house brand), unique & classic pieces, and great gifts at any price point, you've found your perfect place. everything from custom engagement rings/wedding bands to fun statement necklaces, gorgeous clutches, and vintage costume jewelry. or well known designers (like Alexis Bittar, Erickson Beamon, and Clare Vivier) and newer designers like (Les Nereides, Wevly Wilson, Doloris Petunia).

FLOCK- this store is a perfect mix of Anthropologie + Urban Outfitters = a cool indie boutique. the owner stocks her shelves with cool hippie inspired pieces, awesome jewelry, and cool trinkets that you can't help but scoop up. a lot of fresh and young pieces that are different from many of the boutiques in the area/Newbury Street.

PATCH NYC- the coolest place for unique housewares, candles and things that you never knew you needed to have, but totally do. this designer duo has had collaborations with just about everyone (Target, Anthropologie, and West Elm), and also have a studio/gallery space for their art work. the boutique feels like the perfectly curated home of your eclectic aunt/uncle or a worldly professor.

what are some of your favorite spots in the South End?

xx, marissa

currently craving: veggie noodles

if I could go back in time and tell myself that I would be obsessed with anything vegetable related, I would have laughed in my face. over the past 3 or 4 years I've work to overhaul my diet, and make a serious effort to eat whole/clean foods, while upping my vegetable intake. my mom recently gave me a gadget that she had picked up at Bed, Bath, and Beyond that turns vegetables into "noodles". normally I would have looked at a product like this and considered it a total gimmick, but I have been interested in trying zucchini noodles, so I figured what the hell. 

not only were they ridiculously easy to make, the noodles were a million times better than I had imagined. now as a true-blooded Italian gal I will say it straight out, they are not a pasta equivalent. but, if you're someone that loves the concept of spaghetti squash, or is looking for the idea of spaghetti, pad thai or a great stir-fry without the brick feeling that traditional pasta/noodles give, then this thing is amazing. so far I've used it with zucchini and cucumbers, and both have been really good. one tip- if you're using a really wet vegetable (like a cucumber), blot some of the moisture off the noodles with a paper towel so you're not left with a bowl full of watery sauce. I served mine with a tomato and basil marinara which was delish, but next I want to try a pesto or a thai peanut sauce (maybe with a mix of carrots and zucchini- so fancy!). this seemed totally gimmicky, but in reality is one of my favorite kitchen gizmos.

have you ever tried zucchini (or other veggie) noodles? what are your favorite ways to eat them?

xx, marissa

monday funday: maine

off for a bit of R&R with my lifelong best friend as we head up to Maine for the day. some sand and sun are just what the doctor ordered, and as summer starts to wind down (eep!), it's important to bask in the great weather while we have it (as much as I don't want to think about it- the polar vortex will be back soon enough)! It's disgusting to admit that this will be my 4th or 5th beach day of the summer- I remember being younger and having 4 or 5 beach days in a week, not an entire summer! the joys of growing up ;)

we'll be spending the day at Moody Beach with some cute babes, splashing and swimming, letting our hair down, and being our true mermaid selves. monday fundays are the best.

where are your favorite beaches to catch some rays? do you like the cold water of maine, or are you more of a cape gal (like me)?

xx, marissa

the perfect palette

as a self professed make-up junkie, I have more makeup than I will probably ever use (but that doesn't stop me from buying/trying new things). eyeshadow is one of my favorite products to try, but more often than not I find myself gravitating towards the same colors/textures/shadows over and over again. while I love the look of a dark smokey eye, or a fun colorful eye look, that just isn't what I find myself wearing. I love a natural smokey eye, shadows in taupe, bronze or rose gold, and keeping things very clean and blended. while most makeup junkies live and die by the Urban Decay Naked Palettes 1, 2 & 3, I'm a stubborn girl and never gave into that trend (#ridiculous). instead, I bought (and fell in LOVE) with the Stila In the Light Palette.

the colors are perfect for my everyday look- great light highlights, mid-tone taupes, deeper warm browns, and a basic matte black for liner. I love that the shadows come in a mix of finishes (matte, satin, and shimmer) which makes it possible to do a complete eye look with this palette alone. the only shadow that I find myself never using (and wishing they had skipped) is the shimmery blue- but I think it's good that they stuck a color in there in case you wanted to brighten up a look. I also love that they included a liner (the Smudge Stick Waterproof eyeliner in Damsel), making this the perfect travel companion. it's no surprise that Stila is one of my favorite makeup brands (their Stay All Day Waterproof eyeliner is my holy grail), but this palette truly takes the cake!

what are some of your favorite eye shadow palettes?

xx, marissa

currently craving: harem pants

 

I tend to steer clear when it comes to super trendy trends; more often than not, they're a style that only looks good on waif-y starlets, and off duty models. my style is pretty classic, but I'm a firm believer in stepping out of your comfort zone every once and a while. enter the harem pant (or joggers, genie pants, whatever you want to call them). there are always so many different looks that I love, but only on other people. I'll convince myself that while it's cool, I'm just not cool enough to pull it off (pastel hair, sneaker wedges, elaborate/detailed tattoos, etc.), and harem pants were totally one of those things. when I was shopping with some girlfriends yesterday I saw a pair at H&M that were basic, not too drapey or in crazy colors, and I figured what the hell. I tried them on, and let me tell you, they are amazing. of course they're comfortable, it's like wearing glorified pajamas, but they also (when styled correctly) were super cute. I opted for a pair of black with tiny random taupe/pale pink dots, but I think the three above would also make great options

Harem Pants from H&M -  the black color is super basic and will mix & match with much more in your wardrobe. tuck in a v-neck to show off your waist, or wear a fun patterned crop top to punch it up a bit. for day time wear a fun sandal, and switch to a strappy heel or platform wedge to dress them up at night.

Satin Side Stripe Joggers from Topshop -  this style is a bit more structured if you're not about the diaper butt look. these would look great with colorful or detailed pair of sneakers, with a silky white sheer button- up. I love that the khaki green is nuetral, but a great color for transitioning into fall (eek! I can't believe we're already talking about fall)

Kaleidescope Jersey Tapered Trousers from Topshop - these are my favorite pair of the three! I love the print, and the colors- perfect vacation pants. while the print might be intimidating for some, I think all of the colors give you so many options for pairing with tops. these are certainly the focal point of your outfit, so keeping it simple with a solid colored top, and accessorizing with metallic jewels and sandals. dress them up at night with black pumps and a leather jacket.

what are some trends that you love, but are afraid to try?

xx, marissa

neighborhood faves: the north end

what I love so much about Boston is that every neighborhood is different; each with it's own quirks and personality. I may be a little partial since it's where I live, and have lived since college, but the North End definitely holds a special place in my heart. these are a few of my favorite spot in the neighborhood- whether I need a bit of retail therapy, or some amazing food.

Shake The Tree / LIT Boutique / Twilight Boutique

Ernesto's Pizza / Antico Forno / Bova's Bakery

Shake the Tree is one of my favorite spots for funky and eclectic finds. the perfect place for cute stuff for your home, or your super stylish friend that is difficult to shop for. the owner does an amazing job stocking her shelves with super special items, that have a touch of anthropologie mixed with smaller boutique brands. 

best bet if you're looking for: cool housewares, delicate semi-fine jewelry, and fun kitschy items.

LIT Boutique is my go-to for fun dresses, cute tops and statement jewelry. their buyer does an amazing job bringing in pieces that fall in every different price point, which is amazing when you're a college student looking for a cute going out outfit, or looking to find a fun present for your best friend without breaking the bank. the majority of my dress collection is from here, and most of them are under the $100 price point (both of my dresses for my college graduation/party were from here)

best bet if you're looking for: fun dresses, cute shoes/purses, and trendy accessories

Twilight Boutique is my favorite spot for their collection of JoJo Bling earrings and other fun accessories. They also carry great dresses, and clothing pieces- but their price point is significantly higher than LIT. 

best bet if you're looking for: fun sparkly accessories or JoJo's

Ernesto's Pizza is my favorite non-traditional slice of pizza in the North End. the Buffalo Chicken is my absolute favorite, but their BBQ chicken is a close second. their slices are actually two, so don't make the rookie mistake of ordering two- you'll end up with 1/2 a pizza. in college my roommate and I would get a slice of buffalo and a slice of bbq and split them for the best of both worlds.

best bet if you're looking for: slices with lots of toppings! don't even bother with the cheese- too many other combinations to try (and make sure you get it heated up)

Antico Forno is my favorite restaurant in the North End. away from the tourist trap that is Hanover Street, you don't have to deal with long lines, being rushed in and out, and the food is amazing. the gnocci is my absolute favorite, but their pizza is pretty amazing too.

best bet if you're looking for: delicious Italian food that's off the beaten path

Bova's Bakery is the best late night gem in the North End. don't even bother going to Pompeii, unless you like awful service, terrible pizza, and ridiculous lines. Bova's around 2:30/3 am is a prime spot for people watching since all of the drunk people are stumbling in looking for food to fight their midnight munchies. the calzones (chicken parm is my favorite) are the best, but they also have arrancini (rice balls), and pastries (if you're looking for something sweeter. if you're looking for a late night slice, don't bother going here if it's after 1 am. some weird law stops them from being able to sell it. and bring cash ($10 credit card limit).

best bet if you're looking for: late night munchies or drunk people watching

what are some of your favorite North End spots? do you love this neighborhood as much as I do?

xx, marissa

like it, love it, gotta have it: winged liner

when it comes to makeup, everyone has their signature look. for some it's a super fresh face, for other's a bold lip, or a fun colorful eye look. my go-to is definitely a neutral lid, usually in a taupe or bronze shadow, with a winged cat-eye. i've tried my fair share of eyeliners (pencil, gel, liquid, etc.) and always come back to a pen form of a liquid liner. these are a few of my favorites, at a variety of different price points that make creating that perfect flick of a wing super simple.

Like it- Lancome Artliner this liner has a foam tip, and pen-shaped applicator that make it a breeze to apply. the color is super pigmented, and with a eyeshadow primer stays put all day. the bendable foam tip makes the perfect flick at the end, but also gives you control to make your line thick or thin. the price ($30.50- eek!) is what puts it in the Like it spot.

Love it- L'Oreal Lineur Intense this liner is almost an exact dupe for the Lancome liner. same foam tip, same pen-shaped applicator (except this one has curves on the handle that I think only help), and same deep pigmented coloring. the only differences that I've found are the price ($8.99), and that it's available in the drug store, which puts it in the Love it spot. I have found that it sometimes does this weird thing where it can start to peel off your lids if it's super humid, or you have really oily lids, so make sure to wear it over an eyeshadow primer.

Gotta Have it- Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Eyeliner this is my hands down favorite eyeliner ever; it's one of those products that as soon as it starts to dry out, I'm heading to Sephora to replace it. I received a set for Christmas from my bosses (they know that makeup is the key to my heart) which included black, dark brown, moss, and midnight- and have been hooked ever since. I originally was obsessed with the black, but one day decided to try the dark brown and instantly fell in love. the brown is super dark, almost black, but doesn't have the wet/metallic look that black liquid can sometimes have. the pen applicator is super easy to hold, gives you a perfect flick, allows you to control how thick or thin your line is, and does not budge. i'm taking heavy duty staying power that needs waterproof makeup remover to get off. it comes in a ton of different colors (I've been meaning to pick up the turquoise to use for a double lined liner look), and is just amazing through and through.

what's your go-to look when it comes to makeup? do you love a colorful eye, a bold lip, or a contoured face?

xx, marissa