Happy Saturday, friends!
It’s time for the weekend post with Elizabeth and Kim, our weekly roundup of inspirations and goings on.
What a week. Current events aside, it’s been a stressful time over at the Folly. There are some areas of the design I need to reevaluate in order to bring costs more closely in line with the budget. Or, more accurately, not quite so far over budget. Ha. I won’t bore you with the details, I think it’s best to gain some time and perspective before shooting off my mouth. What I will say is that, based on past experience, changes made mid-project – budget related or otherwise – tend to work out and become the things we congratulate ourselves on for being brilliant moves and favorite features. Stay tuned.
I don’t like to brag, but it’s been spring-like the past few days. Yesterday was well into the 70’s and it looks like we’re headed the same direction today. Al fresco dining is back, baby. Not that it ever went away, thank goodness for a mild climate and space heaters.
We celebrated Kyle’s birthday this week at favorite restaurant, Va Da Vi. We didn’t eat outside, but could have. Kyle and Melody will celebrate their fourth wedding anniversary in a couple of weeks, I shared their wedding in the Santa Cruz mountains here. They’re expecting a baby girl this summer!
As we were leaving the restaurant we heard music coming from above and decided to investigate. It was coming from Calicraft Upstairs, a new rooftop cocktail bar in downtown Walnut Creek (from Calicraft Brewing Co.), right next to, and above, Va Da Vi. We climbed three flights of stairs (don’t worry, there’s an elevator) and were warmly greeted by the manager (maybe owner) and after explaining that we were lookie loos, he generously put glasses of bubbles into our hands (non-alcoholic for Melody) and invited us to look around. The place was hopping on a Thursday night and it couldn’t have been a prettier evening to sip bubbles on a downtown rooftop.
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Girls just want to have fun – and avoid reality for short bursts of time – and that’s just what Kim and I did on Wednesday when we met up in Palo Alto for a quick stroll through Pottery Barn followed by lunch at the RH Gallery … and a lot of laughs.
As usual Kim nailed her ladies-who-lunch-when-they-should-be-writing-blog-posts look of casual jeans, a cute cropped sweater, and casually chic flats. That bag of hers is adorable and I think she highlighted it on her blog last year. And she wouldn’t be Kim if she didn’t accessorize with flair … isn’t her neck scarf très chic?
I’m wearing head to toe (shoulder to ankle?) Frank & Eileen. I bought their Limerick pant in the softest twill last year at Flaunt’s Fall Styling Event. I have them in blue too and they go with everything. Speaking of going with everything, their popover henley is an ideal base layer for everything from blazers (I’m wearing their sweatshirt blazer), to pullovers, and as a stand-alone. Of course, I can’t stop, won’t stop wearing my new Tom’s platform espadrilles. And you’re sick of hearing me extol the virtues of LL Beans’s canvas mini-tote with monogram or fun acronym.
We met up at Pottery Barn where Kim was perusing the PB x Kravtz collection which I shared here last month. She bought a couple of cute things and I’ll leave it to her to share them. The Garden Floral Ikat reversible duvet cover, and coordinating accoutrements, is speaking my language.
Shop PB x Kravet Garden Floral ~
And then we were off to RH.
We had a balanced lunch of French fries, Chinese chicken salad, iced tea, and a chocolate chip cookie.
After lunch we availed ourselves of the gallery’s ginormous – hotel lobby sized – sofas. And we took a spin in their cute upholstered – and caster wheeled – dining chairs. I’ve been considering chairs like this for the new house and many of you have alerted me to the dangers of casters, particularly after a spritzer or two. I’m taking your concerns under advisement.
We couldn’t resist the gorgeous patio furniture. Miraculously, we were not escorted from the premises.
In other shopping news, later in the week I stopped by Madewell to pick up these drapey twill pants I ordered online. I decided to try a few things on and bought this boxy dropped t-shirt. I love the longer sleeve length, which can be rolled up, and it’s a really nice heavier weight cotton. White t-shirts and jeans make up the majority of my wardrobe, they’re my essential basics, and I’m starting to work on a basic white tee roundup. If you have a favorite white tee you think I should try, please tell me about it in the comments.
While I was at Madewell I tried on a few things including this pull on track-style pant. And this smocked boatneck tank. The tank comes in several colors, and I’m drawn to the pineapple and botanical green, but white is probably the most versatile for my closet, or the white and beige subtle stripe. Oh, and this cropped denim button up is really good.
I wore the twill pants with a several-years-old ribbed white tee to Kyle’ b-day dinner, topped with my new cropped twill trench. The weather is so nice I didn’t really need a coat, but I couldn’t wait to take it out for a spin. I don’t know if my leopard flats (similar and this mule style is fun) qualify as the ‘wrong’ shoe, but they felt right for this casual outfit.
Exciting news, I’ve finally found a good eye cream. I used Le Mer Eye Balm for years, but it’s pricey and I could no longer justify the cost unless it worked a miracle. It didn’t. I’ve been in search of a new, reasonably priced replacement for some time. I’ve tried a bunch, but nothing I loved enough to buy rebuy. To make matters more urgent I’ve noticed a hallowing under my eyes. Quel horreur. Not that I’m deluded enough to think an eye cream, at any price, is going to eradicate this lovely new feature of aging. For that I’d need the full Kris Jenner but that’s not going to happen.
Back to the eye cream … in my obsessive scouring of Substack beauty newsletters, two products were being referenced repeatedly … enough for me to take notice and take the plunge.
I bought both to see if I like either, or one more than the other. I’m happy to report that both are wonderful … so far. They glide on without any pulling or tugging and absorb quickly with no greasiness. They feel really nice on my skin. I’m also concerned about how they smell. By that, I mean they should not smell – no thank you to fragrance or medicinal scents. And, it goes without saying, they must be clean products from responsible brands.
For day, Versed Brightening Eye Gel. It contains niacinamide, a brightener, and Vitamin C + caffeine so theoretically it brightens, tightens, and firms. Does it really? Who knows. It’s a light gel that goes on with a roller and feels really good on my skin and I swear I feel my under eye area tightening up. Even better, it’s cost friendly. I was first introduced to Versed when they sent me their Rich Barrier Cream and I’ve repurchased it multiple of times. What’s not to love about a good product that’s incredibly wallet friendly.
For night, I’m loving U Beauty’s The Return Eye Concentrate. Ok, it’s pricey – not as pricey as Le Mer – but I really like it. It feels good, goes on easily, absorbs quickly, has no fragrance. I’m not against splurging on products – hello SkinCeuticals – as long as I find a good high low balance.
While we’re talking skincare, might as well bring up makeup. I gave in and ordered Victoria Beckham’s Satin Kajal eye liner. It’s been on my mind for a while … thank you Substack and Instagram. Anyway, did you watch her documentary on Netflix? I enjoyed it and it confirmed the newfound respect I gained for her after watching her husband’s documentary.
I’m partial to navy eye liner so that’s what I ordered. It hasn’t arrived yet, and when it does I’ll report back.
Always a sucker for the upsell, I also ordered her Lid Luster shimmering eyeshadow pot in honey. Its very pretty and looks fun for an evening out. Not that I have many evenings out, but as my dad’s wife advised, always have an up-to-date passport because you never know. Same principle applies here.
A word on eye shadow. I’ve used Urban Decay’s Naked2 Basics Matte Eye Shadow Palette for a long, long time. The bummer is I only use the first three of the six colors. They’re an ideal neutral eye combination and I’ve tried – and can’t – find another combination I like as well. Occasionally I use one of the darker colors, but I go through the first three shades and end up reordering and tossing the unused colors. What a waste. The shadow colors can’t be purchased individually. What’s the deal with that?
And, finally a quick follow up. In January I mentioned purchasing Rare Beauty’s lip liner and lipstick in a matching color and I’m liking them very much. I’ll definitely reorder.
To my local friends, I want to mention I’ll be attending Tony Hick’s book signing at Barnes & Noble Walnut Creek this afternoon. It’s from 2-4pm – or maybe 2-3pm – anyway, I’ll be there on the earlier side. If you’re there too, be sure to say hello.
Current Favorites ~
And that’s what I have for you today. Last week I shared Vol. 2 of things I’m eyeing and buying for the new house, catch up here.
Let’s see what’s inspiring Elizabeth and Kim.
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What a delight to see my two favorite bloggers together this morning! I have purchased many items (home and fashion) recommended by both of you and love your style. And, it’s always wonderful to enjoy glimpses of beautiful California. We still have too much snow on the ground here in Princeton, NJ, but the temperatures should reach 50 today and spring isn’t far off. Thanks for another light and lovely post! Much needed when the news of the day is often so heavy and horrible.
Carol! Thank you for the nicest compliments … and for supporting our blogs. I feel even worse for bragging about our incredible spring-like weather. Ha! Seriously though, it sounds like you’re well on your way to a beautiful spring. I sure hope so, you’ve had a rough winer. I’m so glad to provide a little frivolity in the midst of, as you say, heavy and horrible times. Wishing you a happy weekend with plenty more light and lovely moments. xoxo
Hi Juliet,
How exciting a new baby will be on the way this summer. Another one to love on. Leopard shoes look just fine.
Great to see “the adorable’s” out shopping and going to lunch together. You both always look so chic. I great break from decision over load on the folly.
Have a lovely weekend.
Katherine! Good morning and thank you. Hope your weekend’s off to a great start. xo
Juliet!
Another FUN INSPIRING dispatch!!!
Happy Saturday!!!
XO Kym
Kymmie … I can always count of you to make me smile. xoxo
Thoughts on the fit of the Madewell track pants? The website doesn’t have have any rating notes yet. I’m curvier than usual this season and could use something along these lines.
Christine, I was on the fence. The fabric is heavier … I mean heavy for a track pant, it’s a very light, soft denim. I loved them and they felt great, but I also felt should 5lbs lighter to pull them off. It’s terrible to say that, but that was my reaction truth. That said, they’re still on my mind so perhaps I’ll get over it and buy them … with a white tee or tank and flip flops they’re great for our early spring, early summer transitional time of year. xo
Juliet, your fashion choices look great on you. Very attractive.The new short trench is worthy! I have used a couple of Versed products and I have liked them–the rich barrier cream and the cream blush. Your advice on an up to date passport made me smile!
Vuori has great tees. My new favorite.
Kat! I haven’t tried Vuori. Great suggestion, thanks. xo
Good morning! Looks like you and Kim had a grand day out. I love a lunch with a friend or family at the RH rooftop in Corte Madera. I tried to get the Verse eye cream but the web site kept crashing. Did you pick a sofa yet?
Cristi! I love the RH rooftop in Corte Madera … it’s so pretty. And on a weekend like this … magnificent. Bummer about the website, hope they get they fix it fast Maybe wait a day. I think you can find this brand at CVS too. Happy weekend! xo
Hi Juliet,
I’m back to say me too, I have the Naked 2 Urban Decay BASICS, and only use the first three colors too. Too bad you can’t buy the colors in a group of three or individually like MAC or Chanel does.
ALSO: The saga of the “Hallow/Bags” under the eyes. I’m looking for a sponsor for submitting my application into a beauty contest. Running on the lady in her early seventies for the most “hallow/bags” do you want to sponsor me? You can’t enter with me, I want to make sure I will win. I’m all about winning you know.
So many recommendations to check out from your lovely post this morning. I’m loving the 100% cotton Saint & Sophia Chelsea Crew Neck Tee in white. For those using the the Honey coupon/rewards app, there might be a small discount. Have a good weekend.
Hi Juliet,
Love following your adventures with the new house and always the shopping. Fun seeing you and Kim together. Favorite Tee for me has always been the Marine Layer Swing Crew Tee as the fabric is so good. And that cropped twill trench, wow, I love it in black. I also bought one of the mini totes you recommended and where it is a cute size, I find the handles weirdly stiff to hold. Is it just me?
Juliet! Loved seeing you and Kim today with your newsy blogs. You two are so adorable and very California chic. Congratulations on the news of a baby granddaughter this spring! Oh my, she is so lucky to have you to spoil her! Enjoy our warm weather weekend. Xx
Hi Juliet,
Lovely to see you and Kim together what a fun day! I bought the VB eyeliner and mascara recently and will order them again, love the way my eyes look! Have a wonderful weekend.
I like J.Crews tees. They are really good quality
and compare to $90.00 tees. Very comfortable.
Hi Juliet — What a fun chatty post. I always love learning what you are wearing — clothes, skincare, and makeup. I have a problem with eye creams making my eyes water and feel irritated all day long. At night I just use my face cream on my eyes too. That’s probably a no-no, but it works for me. Wish I lived local and could join you and Kim sometime — you are both too cute. And while I love winter, I am feeling a bit jealous of your weather. Have a great week!
Juliet what a great post with so many cute things! You looked adorable as always at lunch and I wanted your whole outfit. Your clothes are always fit you so perfectly too. Aw thank you for your kind words, but I didn’t feel so cute after seeing your look! Was so fun having lunch together and wish we were closer.
I will check out all the pants at Madewell. I need to go try them out and see if they fit my short waist. They look so cute as does that t-shirt.
I have not tried Versed and the eye creme is on my list now. I am always trying anything for my eye puffiness. Sigh.
I would love to give the VB beauty a try! Looks lovely.
I need the Tom’s shoes too. Thanks again for being the best partner in crime. Too bad E isn’t closer and could join us.
Have a beautiful week.
PS. Love that bedding you chose too. xo
PSS I meant to say you look tres chic in the new tech and the pants. Love them both! Aritzia has some great things. I have the denim track pant on my list too. So good.
So excited for the baby. What a fun cocktail place. You gals look cute. HBD to Kyle!!
Oh my goodness! I have serious FOMO for ladies who lunch when they should be be home writing! How fun! You both look fabulous, and hello….Chinese chicken salad, French fries and a chocolate chip cookie!? Are you kidding me! I love you two!
Juliet, I love seeing you and Kim together. I really think you need a podcast! Or your own Youtube channel. You are both naturals in front of the camera and very funny.
I am sorry about the budget, they are always a pain. Hopefully you can make cuts and enjoy what ou end up with. Keep in mind the Folly is the last house, fingers crossed, so do what’s most important and save money on things that are not.
Congratulations on the future granddaughter! A little one to spoil.
Love all of your outfits! And separates suggestions. I am a dress girl/woman and don’t like to wear pants. But you always look classic and beautiful.
have a wonderful day Juliet.
xo
Juliet, I’ve been remiss in failing to thank you for the book bundle that I recently received from you! I had already read an e-version of The Correspondent but it is one I know I’ll read again—so happy to have a hard copy in my collection! Tony Hicks’ book Lying Drunk was heartbreaking as well as inspiring. I’m now working on Every Day I Read and getting a lot of ideas for new authors to explore. Many thanks!
My favorite basic tee is Quince’s organic cotton slub knit. The white is not a bright white and I like the bit of texture. You can buy a bundle of three for under $50!
Cheers to you!