Dream + Dress

Packing for Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:33:00 +0000

images via Elle Thailand

As I prepare to leave for Thailand this weekend, I've been spending almost as much time thinking about what I'll be doing, as I have thinking about what I'll be wearing. I love dressing according to my destination, especially when traveling to a place as rich with textiles and inspiration as Southeast Asia.

Above are some of the photos I've been gathering to inspire my wardrobe, and below are a few of the pieces I'm coveting to help achieve that look. I'm trying my best to pack light, as I've heard the shopping there is incredible and insanely cheap. Hopefully I'll find lots of fun, authentic versions of these pieces to take home with me. I'll be traveling through Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ko Samui, Koh Phanga, Ko Tao and Bangkok—so I would love to hear any recommendations you might have! And be sure to follow me on instagram and twitter for pictures and updates along the way!

(Clockwise from left): Gypset dress, $350. Holst + Lee necklaces, $98, $158. Mes Demoiselles top, $382.
Prada sunglasses, $245. See by Chloe skirt, $195. L.K.Bennett sandals, $450. Clover Canyon pants, $225.
Rada sandals, $99. Matthew Williamson clutch, $870. Forever 21 hat, $13. Enamo bikini, $250.

Colombia photo diary

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 20:52:00 +0000

Quaint streets of Pueblito Paisa

Jam made from Uchuvas, one of Colombia's most popular (and delicious) fruits

Fresh fruit stands everywhere you turn

The cutest couple, playing traditional music

Colombian sodas and an assortment of fresh juices... I sampled one of each

Tropical and exotic flowers are one of the country's biggest exports

Colorful buildings lining the streets

Fresh juice at every meal

More beautiful flowers

More colorful buildings

Images of the Virgin Mary are used around the city as a way of promoting peace

Freshly peeled mango, a common street snack

A carnival show at Centro de Desarrollo Cultural, one of the city's free cultural centers

Breathtaking view from atop the Parque Biblioteca España

Clusters of leather souvenirs

Sopa de mondongo, insanely good local fave

Typical street jewelry

Array of exotic fruits awaiting us at the airport

Pretty view from one of the many hills

Local musician filming his music video on the street


Each letter was originally scattered across the city, inviting locals to illustrate their love for Medellín

Firebreather at the cultural fair

All images by me © Dream & Dress

Recently, I was invited to visit Medellín, Colombia to attend their annual Colombiatex show and explore the city. Aside from the colorful surroundings and gorgeous textiles on display at the shows, what I found most inspiring was the commitment and passion the Colombians have for their country and its betterment.

In less than ten years, Medellín has gone from being named the most dangerous city in the world (the world!) to being a safe, beautiful tourist destination in an economic uprise, soon to be one of the top exporters of textiles in the world. And while changes in the government have definitely played a large role, it is the people who have really driven this change.

I often hear or read rants from people complaining about what our president has or hasn't done or what is wrong with our country. But I wonder how many of those complaining have actually done something themselves to better our country or society? Colombians don't complain about their president or their fellow citizens, or blame their problems on the "bottom feeders" (as right-wings like to label those in poverty). Instead, they have sought change from within, bettering themselves and offering acceptance and compassion to those in need, understanding that they are all in this together, fighting for the same goal.

At one of the free library and cultural centers we visited, the tour guide explained how the area we were in was previously a "garbage community" (similar to a landfill, but with inhabitants who live off the trash) that just a few years ago was so dangerous, you were not likely to leave after entering. Officials were initially hesitant about opening a library there, fearful it would be misused and none of the books would be returned. But the community fought for it, believing in their collective desire for change, and after the first year the library had a 98% return rate and the cultural center is booming with activity (as seen in the carnival images above).

I could go on and on with similarly inspiring stories from this trip, but the most important lesson I learned and hope to share, is that positivity and belief in yourself and your community can go a long way—far longer than any facebook rant. Volunteer, start a petition, donate to a charity, join a movement, hold the door for someone...or don't do any of these things, but just know that—as Colombians have proven—what you put into this world is directly proportional to what you get out of it.

Thank you Colombiatex, inexmoda and Proexport Colombia for this amazing trip. I am in awe of your country's spirit and strength!

What a girl wants...

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 22:48:00 +0000

images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

I am often asked, by my male friends and/or my girlfriends' boyfriends and husbands, for suggestions on what style of jewelry they should buy for their significant others. With Valentine's Day around the corner, I thought it might be a good time to share some of my suggestions on the pieces that any girl would love to receive (hint: definitely nothing resembling this).

Simple, gold styles feel the most modern right now—they're great for layering with other pieces, and although trendy at the moment, they're classic enough on their own to stand the test of time. I'm currently lusting after everything by Vita Fede (especially this titan cuff in green!), but Gorjana, Jennifer Zeuner, Catbird and Jennifer Fisher all carry an extensive array of gift-worthy treasures.

You can check out more of my faves below (...and feel free to leave open as a hint to your boyfriend).

For prices and where to buy click here

All black everything

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 05:05:00 +0000

(from left to right) Ksubi bra, $50. Kiki de Montparnasse tank, $250. Helmut Lang leggings, $920.

Helmnut Lang sweater, $347. Theysken's Theory bag, $553. Tibi shoes, $435. All Saints hat, $55.

Helmut Lang blazer, $840.

Although dressing in head-to-toe black can be a bit of a New York City cliché, I must admit more often than not I find myself falling into that category, especially around this time of year as the weather starts to get gloomy. However, when done with the right pieces—well-designed, investment staples—even the most basic black ensemble can still look interesting.

Take for example this Kiki de Montparnasse garter tank, when layered under a simple sweater or cardigan it adds just the right amount of sex appeal to elevate it beyond your every day tank. It's these little details that make these pieces worth investing in, especially if you're a uniform type of girl like me and will end up wearing them on a nearly daily basis.

Sale season

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 00:42:00 +0000

(from left to right) Proenza Schouler, $485.99. Tabitha Simmons, $862. Isabel Marant, $589. L.A.M.B., $285.

Alexander Wang, $719. Pierre Hardy, $718. Alexander Wang, $368. 3.1 Phillip Lim, $357.

Fendi, $698. 3.1 Phillip Lim, $487. Fendi, $769.

The holiday sale season has officially kicked off, meaning many of the shoes I've been obsessing over for the past few months are finally at a somewhat justifiable price. Above are a few of my favs for both giving or adding to your own wish list. The tough part now is trying to decide on only one... However, after seeing this photo of Taylor Tomasi Hill, I think I may have to spring for the over-the-knee Wangs—ridiculously hot.

As pippypoo as ever...

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 04:13:00 +0000

Today the world lost not only a talented writer and editor, but also a one-of-a-kind spirit and visionary who changed the lives of women everywhere. I could go on at length about Helen Gurley Brown's achievements and contributions towards women's rights and liberation, but I think this article does a great job of explaining that already.

I wanted to instead share some quotes from Helen that reflect the unique disposition that made her so charming and compelling. Above is one of my favorites—a tear out from a 1970 interview she did with Esquire that's been pinned on my bulletin board ever since my office manager handed me a copy after my first meeting with her. I loved how she defied the notion of being defined and championed the idea that you could be more than one type of woman at once.

I've had the incredible honor and privilege of sharing an office with Helen for the past six years; an experience which has given me a small, albeit impactful glimpse into her life and has provided me with memories that I will always cherish. From her inspiring stories, to her cheeky remarks, to her generally magical presence, Helen was someone you just couldn't help but smile at.

Hopefully these quotes will make you smile as well... Go on "pussycat"...It's what Helen would have wanted.

"Don't use men to get what you want in life—get it for yourself."

"Beauty can't amuse you, but brainwork—reading, writing, thinking—can."

"Feeling insecure is good for you. It forces you to do something better, it drives

you to use all your talents."

"The only thing that separates successful people from the ones who aren't is the

willingness to work very, very hard."

"Nearly every glamorous, wealthy, successful career woman you might envy

now started out as some kind of schlepp."

"Cosmo is feminist in that we believe women are just as smart and capable as
men and can achieve anything they want. But it also acknowledges that while
work is important, men are, too. The Cosmo girl absolutely loves men!"

"Good girls go to heaven, bad girls go everywhere..."

Helen Gurley Brown

February 18, 1922 – August 13, 2012

Sweat Short

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Fri, 25 May 2012 17:14:00 +0000

images: Claudia Knoepfel, Stefan Indlekofer and Mario Sorrenti for Vogue Paris

Happy Friday everyone! Although this weekend technically marks the official start of summer, the forecast for the days ahead is less than stellar. Lately, with the weather's unpredictable mash-ups of sun and showers, I've found myself adopting a new cool-meets-warm style uniform, comprised of cozy knits layered over colorful cut-offs. Above are a few of my favorite renditions of the look, to help inspire my Memorial weekend wardrobe. I hope you are all off to somewhere exciting! Enjoy the long weekend!

xoxo

Washed Ashore

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:53:00 +0000

Finally back after a long hiatus! Working full-time while maintaining the blog is difficult, but I will still try to post as often as possible and whenever inspiration strikes! And speaking of my full-time job, above is a resort story I worked on recently with the amazing photographer, Christian Di Lalla, for the international editions of Harper's Bazaar. I had so much fun working on this particular shoot and our model Lyoka was such a sport throughout the entire thing. I love the mix of colors and patterns and how they pop against the ocean scenery.

And now that vacation season is upon us and the weather has warmed up a bit (albeit rather sporadically) I've gathered some more of my favorite colorful, island-inspired pieces below. You can also check some fun behind the scenes photos from the shoot by visiting my facebook page. Hope you enjoy!

(clockwise from left): Simone Rocha dress, $745. Belle Noel necklace, $188. J.crew hat, $34.50

MTWTFSS Weekday blouse, $70. Zara heels, $49.90. Zara heels, $49.90. Mulberry shorts, $400

Nars Thakoon nail polish, $23. Serpui Marie clutch, $187

Outfit inspiration: snow bunny chic

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:08:00 +0000

Happy hump day everyone! After the bit of snow we had this weekend and the continuously cold weather, my sportswear influences have begun shifting more towards the ski/snow variety. It's tough to look pulled together in the freezing cold, but when it's done right—there's nothing more chic—especially during a snow storm. I'm constantly envisioning my perfect snow outfit and I'm now finally taking the steps to make it happen. Below is my dream cold weather ensemble...

(from left to right): 1. Talbots vest, $29.99. 2. Proenza Schouler sunglasses, $325.

3. Yves Salomon hat, $388. 4. Quiz leggings, $30. 5. Sorel boots, $77.

6. Dolce & Gabbana gloves, $244. 7. Call It Spring, $9.

Exciting news and thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:08:00 +0000

Today I wanted to post some exciting news that I’ve been waiting to share for a while now. A few months back I was asked by Cosmopolitan and Olay to test out Olay’s new 2-in-1 daily facial cloths (which I highly recommend!) and have my reactions to the product appear in an advertorial alongside fellow blogger, Lauren Matison.

The issue is finally here and I couldn’t be more excited. The ad folds right off the cover of the January issue featuring Dakota Fanning, so make sure to check it out next time you’re passing by the newsstand! A huge thanks to both the Cosmo and Olay teams for this amazing opportunity and thank you so much to everyone else for continuing to read and support the blog!

Come SALE away with me...

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:44:00 +0000

Minus the random cold front last week, we've been lucky enough to have a pretty mild winter so far. For me, this meant being able to extend the wears on my fall footwear a lot longer than usual. Now that some of the styles I've had my eye on all season are on serious markdown though, it's the perfect time to start shopping. Here are a few of the best deals I've spotted so far...

(clockwise from top left): Giuseppe Zanotti, $525. Givenchy, $479. Alexander McQueen, $429.

Martin Margiela, $537. D&G, $323. Steven Alan, $309. Elizabeth &James, $198.

Alexander Wang, $232.

A light-colored ankle boot has been on my shopping list for a while now. They're great because you can wear them through Spring, to add some weight to skirts, shorts and dresses when the sun first comes out but the temperatures haven't quite caught up. Worn now they'll look great paired with skinny denim and light-colored cords.

(clockwise from top left): Marni, $298. Bally, $239. Pierre Hardy, $384. Sperry Top-Sider, $120.

Alexander Wang, $260. DSQUARED2, $681. Marni, $248. Sperry Top-Sider, $120.

An all-weather boot is must for braving an NYC winter. Luckily, these styles are just as fashionable as they are functional. Utility looks were all over the runway this season, so pair them with an over-sized parka and slouchy beanie and you're ready to go. The earth-tone sandals can again work double duty, both on their own for Spring or layered with tights for right now.

(clockwise from top left): Vivienne Westwood, $266. Giuseppe Zanotti, $636. Rupert Sanderson, $655.

3.1 Phillip Lim, $312. Jimmy Choo, $876. Alexander McQueen, $650. 3.1 Phillip Lim, $398.

Alexander Wang, $260.

I've already discussed my obsession with blue velvet this season, and these booties are no exception. Whether in navy or black, these classic shapes will withstand the test of trends and last you season after season. Well worth the investment (especially when they're on sale)!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo

A fresh start...

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:34:00 +0000

Hope everyone had an amazing New Year's and 2012 is already off to a great start! Every year around this time I find myself reflecting on the past year while contemplating plans and goals for the year ahead. I've been gathering these sweet, inspirational quotes on pinterest for a while now (eventually hoping to create some sort of art from them) and thought the beginning of a fresh, new year would be the perfect time to share them. What are some of your dreams and goals for the coming year? Hopefully these will inspire you to go after them as well!

Best wishes for 2012!

xoxo

Outfit inspiration: leather and light

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 21:20:00 +0000

Hope everyone had an amazing holiday! While continuing on my quest for the perfect New Year's Eve ensemble, I came across the above image of Chanel Iman wearing a sheer, pointelle chiffon and leather get-up by Valentino, and immediately dubbed it a contender. I love the way the lighter material of the blouse plays again the hardness of the leather, which could easily be achieved with a thin tank or tee as well, for a more casual look. Below are a few of my favorite pieces for re-creating the look...

1. H&M bra, $25. 2. Richard Nicoll blouse, $259. 3. DANNIJO necklace, $495. 4. Oakwood skirt, $145.

5. Alexander Wang shoes, $525. 6. La Diva clutch, $68. 7. Marleen's earrings, $12.

DIY: wrapping paper

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:24:00 +0000

Hope everyone had a nice weekend! I spend the majority of it—probably like most of you—busy with holiday preparations, which of course included wrapping lots of gifts!

Like last year, I decided to forgo traditional store-bought paper in favor of my own handmade rendition. I had seen a similar stamping idea online a while ago and finally decided to try it out for myself. Using just some old white tissue paper, a stalk of celery and some left over acrylic paints, I was able to create the pretty floral paper you see above. Here's how you can do the same...

Step 1: cut a stalk of celery approximately 3 inches from the base to create your stamp. Make sure to keep the knife perpendicular to the counter and cut in one straight chop to create a level stamping surface. The cut half should resemble a rose, like in the photo on the right.

Step 2: pour some acrylic paint on a paper plate and dip your stamp into the paint. You may want to test the stamp on a paper towel first to determine your desired consistency. I used a mix of heavy and light paint consistencies and scattered them randomly across the tissue paper.

Step 3: you can also layer different colors on top of one another to give the flowers more dimension, or use several colors for a multi-hued effect. Once finished with your design, let dry and wrap gifts as usual!

All images via Dream & Dress

Happy wrapping!

xoxo

Dreaming of a white Christmas...

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:52:00 +0000

While on the hunt for a New Year's Eve ensemble, I found myself repeatedly drawn to these muted shades of winter white. I love the light, ethereal feel and how unexpected the color (or lack thereof) is for this time of year.

Jewel love: Shourouk

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:08:00 +0000

Shourouk jewelry, available at: net-a-porter

Wow, I'm crushing hard on every piece from French jewelry label, Shourouk. The brand first landed on my radar after appearing in Taylor Tomasi Hill's office feature on The Coveteur (a great read btw if you have some time to kill) and they've been blowing up ever since. I love the juxtaposition of the vintage, baroque-style designs with the more modern neon and sequin accents. Très chic!

Blue velvet crush

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:59:00 +0000

I am having a major blue velvet moment right now! How insanely gorgeous are these shoes? Although they may be completely impractical for a New York City winter, I just don't think I can resist. The only question plaguing me now though is whether to go for these amazing Loeffler Randall lace-ups or these equally fab Thakoon ankle boots? What do you think??

{artwork by Dream & Dress}

Outfit inspiration: the uniform

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:26:00 +0000

Lately I've been sticking to a "uniform" of sorts; consisting of skinny jeans, a half-tucked slouchy blouse, booties or heels and my leather jacket. It may sound a bit boring or staid to stick to one particular style, but as these pictures show—there can be many different ways to interpret a single look.

Finding a "uniform" that suits your style can also make getting dressed a lot easier, and it can quickly become your signature. Emmanuelle Alt (who is featured in the majority of these photos) is a prime example of this, and you can see how she's evolved and re-interpreted her look time and again for different occasions and seasons.

Under $100 gift guide: HOSTESS

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 04:24:00 +0000

The final edition of last week's Under $100 Gift Guide series (which was supposed to go up on Friday, but due to technical issues could not be put up until today) focuses on stylish, affordable gifts to bring the host or hostess of your next holiday get-together...

1. Jonathan Adler mustache bottle opener: this gold corkscrew is bold, fun and perfectly cheeky.

2. Z Gallerie shot glasses: you don't always associate shot glasses with sophistication, but these stainless steel deer and moose versions definitely fit the bill.

3. DL & Co gold skull vessel: just the right balance of goth and glam, great for placing on a vanity or storing hidden treasures.

4. Fortune cookie box: adorable display piece that opens and closes, perfect for storing a surprise thank you note for your host!

5. Dubost cheese knives: this colorful set will liven up any cheese platter and comes complete with a chic, artisinal storage box.

6. Ladurée macaroons: this French favorite is as well known for its delicious pastries as it is for their drool-worthy packaging, and now that they've opened an NYC location, you don't have to cross the Atlantic to get them.

7. Z Gallerie champagne bucket and pitcher: the shiny nickel, the fabulous resin horn handles—what's not to love about this ridiculously cool barware?

8. C.Wonder ikat coffee mug: this mug is super cute (and cheap!), but really the entire C.Wonder store is pretty amazing. It only opened last month, so if you haven't had a chance to check it out, make it a priority for the holidays—definitely a must-see shopping destination.

Under $100 gift guide: THE GUYS

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 22:35:00 +0000

1. Vintage treasures: after a friend of mine saw her boyfriend lusting over a $400 vintage skateboard at a flea market, she searched eBay and found almost the exact same one for less than $20! She then decided to buy three others in various styles to make him a rad piece of wall art. You can put your own spin on this creative idea by scouring eBay for some nostalgic finds that suit his interests.

2. J.Crew hoodie: guys love hoodies, and this sherpa-lined version is a more refined yet still comfortable take on the style.

3. J.Crew iPhone case: the mock wood grain finish on this cover is unique and stylish but still maintains a manly edge.

4. Terre d'Hermès eau de toilette: the first time I smelled this I literally chased the guy who was wearing it down the street to ask what it was... It’s that good!

5. TouchTec gloves: we all know how much guys prefer typing to talking, and with these tech-saavy texting gloves he'll be able to send sweet nothings your way, come sleet or snow.

6. ProToast NFL toaster: you'll definitely score points with this one! How cool would it be to surprise him with breakfast in bed, complete with his favorite team’s logo emblazoned right onto his morning toast?

7. Beer of the month club: another thing guys love is beer... usually in mass quantities. Help quench his thirst by signing him up to receive monthly deliveries of hard-to-find microbrews from all over the country.

8. Diesel travel duffle: every guy needs a weekend bag, but few will seek one out on their own. Save him from that old Jansport he’s probably still rocking, with this cool and affordable style that's currently on sale!

Under $100 gift guide: THE GIRLS

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:12:00 +0000

Whether it's your sister, co-worker, best friend, or babysitter—these woman deserve better than the average gift card or bath set. Show them you care this season with some of these unique and fashionable finds...

1. Juicy Couture earmuff headphones: these are cute enough on their own as earmuffs, but the fact that they double as headphones makes them that much more amazing.

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs link bracelet: this bracelet is bold enough to make a statement but classic enough to wear every day, would look great alone or layered up the arm.

3. J.Crew Blythe blouse: I own this blouse in four colors already and am planning on buying it in two more before the holidays (unless Santa is listening... wink, wink!) It is the ultimate basic that any woman's wardrobe would benefit from.

4. Society6 iPhone case: this site literally has thousands of unique and stylish iPhone covers in an array of prints, patterns and designs—the only hard part will be deciding which one to get.

5. Deborah Lippmann metallic nail polish set: I've already professed my love for sparkly nails, and this set of metallics has all the right shades to keep any glamor girl covered for the holidays.

6. Harper's Bazaar: Greatest Hits book: fashion books are my favorite gift to receive because they're great to display and reference for inspiration—and you can never have too many. And since there is no greater fashion authority than Harper's Bazaar (OK, I may be slightly biased, but that doesn't make it any less true), this book should be first on your list!

7. Wool and The Gang DIY scarf kit: almost every girl I know (myself included) wishes they knew how to knit, so what better way to learn than by crafting your own snood with the help of this handy dandy kit?

Under $100 gift guide: DAD

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:51:00 +0000

After featuring moms in yesterday's gift guide, it seems only fitting that we focus today on their equally important counterpart, the dads...

1. Xperience Days adventure: treat your dad to flying lessons, a stockcar ride or even whitewater rafting—these are just a few of the local experience adventures offered on this incredible gifting site.

2. J.Crew half-zip sweater: if your dad is more of a sweatshirt guy like mine, the half-zip is a stylish alternative that won't sacrifice comfort.

3. Yves Saint Laurent L'Homme eau de toilette: this is the perfect "dad" fragrance—mild yet sophisticated and universally pleasing.

4. UGG Australia leather slippers: your father probably never knew he wanted UGGs, but after trying these on he'll never want to take them off.

5. J.Crew leather notebook: although our kids probably won't even know what a notebook is, dads are old school and will appreciate the quality and palpability of this throwback accessory.

6. Monogrammed branding iron: if your dad's into grilling, he's probably pretty proud of these skills, so what better way to show his pride than by branding his initials into every steak and burger that comes off the grill?

7. J.Crew flannel robe: your mom might not be happy about it, but what dad doesn't want to lounge around in a comfy robe all day?

8. Wine of the month club: the gift that keeps on giving! Sign him up to receive a new bottle (or bottles!) of wine each month, delivered right to his doorstep.

Under $100 gift guide: MOM

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 20:33:00 +0000

Hope everyone had an amazing holiday weekend! I decided to forgo the black Friday madness in favor of some online shopping. This week, I'll be sharing some of my favorite finds in a series of under $100 gift guides for all the important people on your list—starting with Mom...

1. Jo Malone Red Roses bath oil: every mom deserves to be pampered and Jo Malone's products are pure luxury.

2. Armani Exchange leather gloves: this style is totally classic and timeless, something she can wear every season, at a great price for real leather.

3. Tory Burch wine cozy: my parents were given a way less stylish wine tote last year which they now take to every dinner party or BYOB spot. This one's a super chic way to gift wine and it can be used again and again by the recipient.

4. Kendra Scott agate earrings: when picking out jewelry for my mom, I usually look for pieces that are slightly outside the box but not outside her comfort zone. These colorful yet simple earrings are perfect.

5. N.Peal cashmere scarf: this scarf was originally $220 and is now on sale for just $77—for real cashmere—enough said!

6. Monogrammed throw pillow: moms love anything personalized, and this site offers a range of fabric and thread options that can be customized to suit any taste or decor.

7. Topshop suede slippers: these combine the comfort factor that mom will love with the style factor that you'll love not being embarrassed by.

8. Saks Fifth Avenue musical snow globe: this is my go-to parental gift (both for my own and a few surrogates over the years) because of its holiday charm, chic Saks packaging and great price. I'm a sucker for the NYC version, but they carry five other major cities as well!

Click here for more motherly gift inspiration!

Give thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:36:00 +0000

Hope you're all enjoying the beautiful fall weather today and celebrating all we have to be thankful for! I'm most thankful for my wonderful family and friends and everyone's good health... And of course, all the amazing fall finds below (especially this Michael Kors moto jacket and these gorg Alexander Wang booties, both of which are on sale for an absolute steal!)

(from left to right): Madewell hat, $32. MICHAEL Michael Kors jacket, $206. j.crew sweater, $98.

Hermes ring, $165. Gala Curios bangle, $195. Bottega Veneta gloves, $290.

Alexander Wang booties, $270. Reiss skirt, $180. Cambridge Satchel Co. bag, $216. YSL lipstick, $30.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

xoxo

A winner and a discount!

noreply@blogger.com (Caitlin) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:22:00 +0000

Congratulations to Lottie H. (aka @AKnNYer) on winning the VERAMEAT anniversary giveaway! Lottie chose this adorable lochness monster necklace in brass as her prize and we couldn't be happier for her. Thank you so much to everyone else who entered!

And even if you weren't a winner this time, Vera has been kind enough to extend a special discount to Dream and Dress readers. Shop online or in-store between now and Thanksgiving using code: "MORE LOVE" at checkout and you'll receive 20% off your entire purchase!

Vera's pieces also make for great holiday gifts, since they're so unique and personal, and her price points are surprisingly reasonable. Not to mention—you have a sweet discount to use now. So skip the lines and crowds on black Friday and order your gifts right from home instead!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo