Friday's Simply Smitten - Blush & Blooms

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“Each time we don’t say what we want to say, we’re dying”

-Yoko Ono

Happy Friday! It was another week of celebrations. From my friend’s birthday to Bastille Day, it was a continuation of this jubilant, festive month.

Over the weekend I met up with a friend for drinks and dinner at Portrait Bar to celebrate her birthday. I have been to Portrait Bar before, but only for drinks. I thought the food was good! Of course it’s a small menu as the Fifth Avenue Hotel has its own restaurant, but still has a decent menu. We had appetizers first, then I got the tuna tartare while she had a burger. Besides the enjoyable ambiance, it was really nice to catch up. She is a new friend, so we are still getting to know each other – and it’s been great getting to know her better!

Sunday I luckily had the day off so I went uptown to the Bastille Day festival hosted by L’Alliance New York. I have been going to the festival for a few years now, in honor of my Grandmother. She used to always celebrate the holiday as her father is french. So I started to celebrate, not only her, but my ancestry. Anyway, the festival is basically a street fair with some entertainment. They had a puppy parade, which I missed but at least was able to see some cute dogs dressed up as Frenchmen. The usual vintage car show was, as always, fun to spectate. There are other activities such as shopping, soccer (football), bocce ball, and more. It’s kid-friendly, but also great to stroll around as adults drinking and eating. I had a glass of lemonade, and ate a macron and a gf raspberry bar. All while enjoying what each vendor had to offer.

The rest of my week has mostly been centered around work- both blogging and styling. I also had Monday off so used that day to do all of my domestic chores, as well as finally, FINALLY dropping off 4 bags of clothes at Goodwill. They have been sitting in my apartment for a few months now, and I kept adding and adding and adding clothes to it. To the point each bag was overflowing. I still need to get rid of a lot of my clothes, selling them on The RealReal, Poshmark, Threads, and donating them. At least now I have some peace of mind that I am no longer looking at the 4 bags taking up space in my studio apartment.

I started reading two new books this week. The first being Trust by Hernan Diaz. It’s a historical fiction set in 4 parts; 4 completely different narratives. Set around the infamous stock market crash of 1929, each part is a tale of Andrew Bevel and different perspectives on how he gained his wealth, navigated the stock market crash, and his relationship with his wife. It about men who rise in both power and wealth through innovation, risky business decisions, as well as their familial dynamics. I am currently in the middle of part 2 called “Ancestry” and am enjoying it thus far. While I do say in the beginning of each section, it can be a little confusing as to who they are talking about, and how it ties into the other parts. I highly suggest reading the synopsis first so you get a clear understanding of the layout.

The next book I am currently reading is Good Girls Die Bored by Elizabeth Little. It’s about a Military veteran who is recruited by her best friend, an ex CIA Agent, to help out on a high-profile security detail. However, something feels off to Juno. What it is, I haven’t discovered yet!

What I am watching: I binged watched Five-Star Weekend on Peacock starring Jennifer Garner, Chlöe Sevigny, Gemma Chan, Regina Hall, and D’Arcy Carden. I loved it!! I read the Elin Hilderbrand book earlier this year, knowing they were making a tv series out of it. There are some changes from the book to the series, but they are so minor it doesn’t matter- at least to me. The biggest change was switching the gender of two side characters, and honestly, I liked it better. Highly suggest watching! A heartwarming yet heartbreaking story that will make you want to spend a weekend in Nantucket with your best friends.

I watched the 3rd installment of Enola Holmes on Netflix starring Millie Bobby Brown. It was a fun watch; filled with action and mystery. They kept the same quirkiness that is Sherlock, and of the first 2 movies, which I liked. Overall it was enjoyable.

I am a little late on this, but I started the docuseries WWII with Tom Hanks on the History Channel that was released in May- although it is still airing episodes. I am somewhat of a history buff, and am mostly interested in WWII. I have to say this is one of the best documentaries I have seen on the war. I am learning new things. I like the layout of the documentary; a variety of people narrating, new-to-me images and videos of the war.

What I bought: I went on a little shopping spree. Some items are for work, others are to wear out and about.

White Chestnut Piping Dress: I originally tried this one on to convince my mom to buy it, but then I ended up liking it for myself. Sorry mom! It’s a classic, staple piece I can wear to work for years. I love the brown piping, which gives an ordinary white dress some detailing. It’s oversized so size down I bought an XS and it’s still a little loose which it is suppose to be.

Marigold Satin Clutch: Most of my handbags are basic colors; blacks, whites, beige, etc. I want to start adding more colors to my handbag collection. This marigold satin clutch is the perfect addition as I can wear it out at night and to special occasions. I love the tassel closing, which is a fun embellishment.

Black Boatneck Linen Minidress: I wanted a classic black mini dress that I can throw on. Whether I am shopping around the West Village or meeting friends for dinner, a little black dress will always be a trusty go-to.

Gold Linked Stud Earrings: I have been eyeing these earrings for a long time and finally got them! They are a great mix between classic and statement. Something I can wear to work, but also out at night. They are under $100.

White Off The Shoulder Top: I have been wanting to add more elevated tops to my wardrobe, while still maintaining a sense of timeless style. Gone are the days of shopping at Forever 21 for a cheap “going out top”.

On The Blog

Sunday Shopping

Everything I Read in June

LTK Spotlight: Nordstrom Sale picks

ShopMy Spotlight: Summer wedding guests dresses

Top Seller: This chic black necklace

This weekend I will mostly be working, but if the weather corroborates I may go out for a drink or two. However, I can see myself just staying in this weekend. Give myself a little break. Especially if the smoke doesn’t clear up. It was really awful last night while I was leaving work; thick air, the smell of fire. I walked to the subway covering my mouth with a tissue. Anyway, the next few weekends I will be out and about for birthday celebrations, drinks on the schedule, and more.

Have a wonderful weekend xo

1. All The Five-Star Weekend filming locations – I need to book a trip to Nantucket

2. This maxi dress can be worn well into the beginning of fall- the print is also pretty

3. Eyeing these classic shorts – truly are a pair you will wear year after year

4. A tassel necklace to wear with most of your outfits- can be worn year round

5. Unpacking Ancient Greece’s influence on fashion- enjoyed this historical look through the early 1900s to modern pieces

6. Dolce and Gabbana Couture 2026- each look is a work of art

7. Gap years are wasted on the youth- interesting article on how adults taking a gap year is beneficial

8. Delicious summer desserts to make – the gooey baked s’mores bars are calling to me

9. The best new books to read this summer- added a few to my BTR list!

10. Summer eating myths to retire- why our appetite dips in the heat

Weekend Sales