stumptown stil

I know, I know–not another Brazil post(!!) but seriously you guys, this one features something that everyone can enjoy–not just those planning a getaway to a tropical locale–booze! 

For those of you not familiar with this sweet and sour tropical delight, the Caipirinha is the national cocktail of Brazil. Ok, maybe not really–I totally just made that up. But in all seriousness, I feel confident in asserting that if there were a national cocktail, this would be it. Hands down. Made from Cachaca, a Brazilian sugar-cane rum, the Caipirinha offers up an authentic Brazilian experience in a glass.

Now, as you might imagine, I encountered and enjoyed many caipirinhas during my vacation in Brazil, and I have to say–for such a straightforward drink, I was amazed by all the variations there were–some better than others, of course. For today’s Tuesday Boozeday I am going to share with you the tricks of the trade, and my favorite approach to the Caipirinha.

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I think you’re all aware by now of my love and allegiance to our local Portland designers. Over the years, they have provided me with work, friendship, and experiences of a lifetime, which I’ll never forget. Aside from these intangibles, I’m very fortunate to have been able to collect a few ‘treasures’ from them over time as well, and to have their work adorn my otherwise-sad-at-times closet (my fiancé will 100% disagree with this). In fact, a major goal of mine in starting this blog with Erin, was to shed a brighter light on the lovely talent we have here in our city and show both that they’re capable of, and how you can incorporate such pieces into your every day wear. So perhaps next time you’re headed to Forever21, consider taking the scenic route on over to a local boutique and find some beautiful, locally produced treasures to have for yourself. Continue reading →

Hello lovelies,

The subject of today’s post is not fashion. Well, not directly anyway. Today, I am sharing with you all my week(s) (in Brazil) on Instagram. It’s an Instatrip if you will!

I know some of you will be disappointed that there are no trend analyses or cute outfit  pics but this time, instead, open your mind to inspiration from a new source–the backdrop of wildly beautiful and beautifully wild Brazil. Because–well, at the end of the day your fashion choices are dictated by what inspires you, right?

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(Photo of me by Brendan Patrick Coughlin)

Bad hair days: we all have them, even though I feel that mine are more frequent than others’. Specifically, I’m challenged because my hair is baby fine and vulnerable to strange kinks and knots when not thoroughly combed through post-shower. Aside from that, I have the delight of dealing with premature oiliness, which means I must rely heavily on  dry shampoo to save my locks. Frankly, however, there are a number of days when I don’t have the time to wrestle it into shape, or when I’m riding my bike to work. On such days, it’s just not realistic for me to style my hair into perfect beachy waves, or honestly even blow dry it some days. Luckily for myself (and everyone else who suffers from recurring bad hair days), there are plenty of low-effort hair styles that one can employ on days like these, and many that also just so happen to be on trend right now. (Though I must say, there are  days where I could care less if my hair is on trend, so long as it’s out of my face!) Here are a few of my favorite styles for warding off these challenging days… Continue reading →

It’s official, lovelies–Portland is now in full bloom! The long, sunny days of microbrew-drinkin and salt-n-straw eatin are creepin on in, and I dare you to keep from smiling! Personally, I’m thanking my lucky stars that we seem to be enjoying an early(er than usual, **knock on wood**) spring, because BOY, I didn’t know how much longer I could really stretch my winter wardrobe without losing my marbles and deciding to set it all ablaze! Good riddance!! (For now…)

In celebration of the season’s generous bounty–Oh Spring, you’re such a lush!–I’ve been donning florals on the regular these days. This wrap dress, a favorite of mine from Love UK, really captures the fresh spirit of the season. I hope that it inspires you, too, to mix up your wardrobe with  floral prints that epitomize the blossoming backdrop to our spring existence here in the Northwest.

Ironically enough, I debuted this bright little number at the Portland Mercury’s ‘Open Season’ fashion show last year, which is a great segue into reminding all of you fashionable ladies that Open Season 2013 is set to take place next week. Although Sarah and I are a little less than pleased (*grumble, grumble, grumble*) that it’s scheduled it over a series of weekdays this year, which means next week will be a circus of sorts, we intend to make at least a few appearances! The highlight, of course, will be Pendleton’s The Portland Collection Fall 2013 show on Wednesday at Rontoms. Perhaps we’ll se you there?

For now, stay fresh!

xo

Erin

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