Lovely Dress of the Day

In a few weeks (September 26-27, to be exact) I'll be traveling back to the beautiful McLaughlin Vineyards for their annual Harvest Fest. I think it will be a great way to kick off Autumn; their schedule of events includes wine tastings, hayrides in the pumpkin patch, tours of the vineyard, hikes through the vineyard, and on Saturday, the 26th, another fantastic show by Liz&The Crickstones. I'm really excited to go, but it dawned on me today that I don't have the perfect "Harvest Fest dress." What does one wear to celebrate Autumn? Luckily, our friends at ModCloth, once again, have come through with the ultimate dress to sing Autumn's praises. The Missoula Dress would be a perfect outfit to wear while listening to great music and sipping wine, pumpkin picking, sitting in a tractor full of hay, or even some dancing under their tent. I adore the detailed flowers and embroidered flourishes; the bow on the back adds a girly-flair, all the while still being a slightly "cowgirlish" (yes, this is a word) dress. Like the ModCloth description states, this dress would be perfect with cowboy boots, or brown leather boots, big earrings, and a little brown cardigan or jean jacket. This is a dress for making memories in; whether it is picking the most perfect pumpkin, dancing under the stars, or even just as simple as finding a perfect Fall outfit which, like the summer nights that fade into cool breezes, won't fail to make you smile.

PS. Pair the Missoula Dress with these great (and so cheap) statement earrings!

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

With school starting this week and next for students across the world, I decided to dedicate the Etsy finds of this week to students and teachers. Part of growing up is learning what makes us unique individuals and stand out from the crowd; as a teacher, I constantly see kids trying to figure out the nuances which make them unique (or, on the flip side, suppress their nuances to be part of the crowd!). One of the major ways students identify themselves is by their pencil cases. When I was a student, I made myself a pencil case out of muslin, inserted a zipper (go me!), and wrote my favorite quotes all over it. I loved that case. It was 100% me and defined who I was at that time in my life. Pencil cases, like big necklaces, the perfect bag, and the little black dress, help define a person's character, keep them original, and all the while, carry pencils in style.

Today I came across this lovely and adorable "pencil roll" from Little Pink Pins. I love this idea! I remember my pencils used to get jumbled together and break in the bag; but with the pencil/pen roll, everything stays in place and keeps clean. I think the floral pattern is truly charming (on both the inside and the outside!); and I love the neat little package it forms when rolled together and tied with it's sweet ribbon. The pencil roll holds 12 pencils/pens and has two larger slots for your markers. This isn't just a great idea for students, but artists could hold their brushes or fancy pens/pencils in this! What a great present idea for an art-school student! I think the Yellow Floral Pencil Roll is a perfect addition to any student's back-to-school loot!

Lovely in San Francisco

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

Last night my beautiful cousin, Kate, got engaged! After jumping up and down for a good twenty minutes (there was a lot of squealing and hand-clapping too), I realized I wanted to look on Etsy for the perfect present for the couple. Kate and her sweetheart fiancee, Rocco, are both artists, so I wouldn't settle for some chain-store present; thus, the reason I love Etsy so much. I typed "engagement" into the search box and after sifting through tons of engagement rings (including this adorable "carrot" ring!), I came across this classy, traditional, yet totally unique vase set. The "Only One For Me Set" comes from the Florida based store, Anna's Pots. I absolutely love that this "bottle set" is a one-of-a-kind piece. I love the anthropomorphic element of all of Anna's work; each piece has such a distinctive personality. The idea that these two vases don't necessarily need each other to work, but look more perfect as a set is a lovely and romantic concept. What a perfect engagement present for two people who are very much independent, but when they join forces, they are unstoppable! What's more, is I simply adore Anna's artist's statement; I feel like her words aren't just describing her pots, but are wedding vows of a sort! Anna says, "I work primarily in groupings of pots, more specifically, with pairs. I find pairs of pots captivating. The possibilities seem endless. I love how the subtleties I put into each pot effect how the two pots seem to relate to one another. My goal is to translate the intricacies of human relationships into the silent tensions and passions between my pots." And how! These beautiful pots are a perfect gift for a wedding, new baby, Valentine's day, or even as an "I love you, Mom/Grandma" gift. Such a lovely and unique piece of art to add personality to your home!

Lovely in San Francisco

Sometimes you just know, some people call it love at first site. Some call it kismet. Some call it beshert. I call it Lovely. And sometimes you just know lovely and today I did. Today I just knew that Crown and Crumpet was everything we here at Lovely At Your Side find lovely. Alex and I wandered in and with one voice sighed and proclaimed the store 'absolutely Lovely.' From the ingeniously gorgeous emblem of a crown-kettle, to the two different and beautiful business cards, the store is absolutely flawless.

The entry way is festooned with the most beautiful table of goodies you could ever imagine. Like a childhood dream of candies stacked high, and an adult dream of packaging done with the utmost class, style and care. The table makes you want to eat every sort of sugared sweet available, to spend all your money buying the sugary goodness, to invest in the ribbons, stripes and polka dots of the wrappings.

Once you move beyond the heavenly table you encounter the loveliest floral table cloths, with brightly colored cushions upon white painted wooden chairs and white bone china upon the tables. They invite you to come sit down, and enjoy, discuss pleasant things, and order afternoon tea with your dear, sweet friend. In the back couches surround a "fire," a television with the image which creates cozy with no extra heat. I am vaguely considering moving in.

Alex and I plan to return for tea tomorrow--to feast upon toasted crumpets with butter, jam and clotted cream, and crust-less, dainty tea sandwiches. And of course, two big pots of tea. We've got a lot of lovely to take in there, and much more to discuss. I'll let you know how it goes!


For more information on Crown & Crumpet, click here!

Lovely Dress of the Day

Greetings from San Francisco! So far I've found some truly Lovely places to share with you guys. But, as I am jet lagged and it feels like 11 PM, and I cannot seem to nap and have dinner coming up I will just post this lovely dress of the day for you. ModCloth has done it again with the Spot on Dress, it is to pun-- spot on. I wish I had had this dress running up and down the hills today, sitting in Washington Square Park, and giggling in the San Francisco MoMA. It would have complimented the day of Ghirardelli Square, drinks at B Bar, and Yerba Buena Gardens divinely.

For more information, pictures and to buy, click here!

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

This morning I stepped out of the house to take Jenny to the train, all of the sudden a wicked breeze hit my face; I snarled at the wind, knowing exactly who it was: Fall. Dear Fall, we're not ready for you yet! Love, Lovely At Your Side. Sigh, there's no doubt that Autumn is on it's way, and therefore, it's time to start shopping with Fall in mind. This is especially true when it comes to Fall foods; so long watermelon and barbecues, see you next year grilled peaches and lemonade. However sad it is to see Summer foods hibernate, it's time to focus on the best part of Autumn: pie. As much as I love and adore apple and pumpkin pie, sometimes I tend to...well, okay, one time, I sat down in front of an apple pie, and twenty minutes later it was gone. I can't explain it, don't blame me, but it happened and the pie's life was short lived, but very much loved.

Therefore, when I came across the Long Island based online-bakery The Cookie Jar, which sells "hand pies" I got (probably a little too) excited! These hand-held, bite-sized pies are available in apple, peach, blueberry, pumpkin, cherry, or your own custom flavor. For $20, you get eight pies! What a great idea for a dinner party, family reunion, or even as wedding favors! The Cookie Jar explains, "Please know that all of my baking is made with the freshest fruits, locally grown whenever possible, and the most delicious, flaky crust, made from scratch. I prefer to use fruits that are in season and often pick them myself from the farms of Long Island!" Sounds delicious! What a great breakfast-in-bed treat, or even to pack in your lunch for work (or surprise your loved one!). Hand held pies: the loveliest dream come true.

Lovely Dress of the Day

New for fall! New for our wardrobes! We need them! We need them! Forever 21 has come out with a short sleeve version of their fabulous sleeveless color block dress which Olivia and I love so much. The colors are perfect for fall, mustard, navy, crimson and gray make me want to cuddle up with a mug of tea and a book, go to my high school homecoming bonfire, pick apples and bake a pie!For the beyond lovely price of $13.50 how can I resist getting one in every color? I want to wear one every day of the week-- I am bringing three of the sleeveless version on my five day vacation! Monday wear the mustard and white with brown boots and a jean jacket. Tuesday navy and gray with crocodile brown flats and a short trench. Wednesday the gray and white with a patterned flat or cardigan (leopard print anyone?). Thursday the crimson and gray with the brown boots and black tights, paired with the short trench again. And finally, Friday the blue and white with cowboy boots and the jean jacket for a little cowgirl let loose. What a lovely uniform!

For more information, pictures and to buy click here!

A Lovely Sunday in Connecticut

Last weekend a Lovely reader invited me to visit McLaughlin Vineyards in Sandy Hook, Connecticut. After leaving the main roads, you veer off into dirt paths, full of beautiful flowers, gorgeous trees, and little wooden walking paths; your car drifts right into the vineyards and as you drive to the main shop, you get to drive right through the vineyards that create the delicious wine. McLaughlin Vineyards doesn't simply sell wine; they have an adorable country store, full of beautiful dishes, deserts, American Vintage Wine Biscuits (which are tiny crackers with a huge and original flavor; mouth watering, to say the least), syrups, and of course, their signature wines (which were just as perfect as I heard that they were!). You can go to the Vineyard to do yoga, hike, for wine tastings, and take romantic walks. The vineyard also houses weddings, and I don't see why anyone wouldn't get married there: it's simply gorgeous. I felt like I had stepped into a completely different world (think: A Walk In The Clouds). I sat under a tent and watched their Sunday entertainment (they have amazing bands perform there, as well as "vintage baseball games"!). This Sunday (and every other Sunday) the soulful songbird Liz McNicholl and The Crickstones played a variety of music ranging from Bluegrass to Grateful Dead to their original work (album coming out soon! I'll keep you posted) to John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. The really friendly and sweet people watching the show all brought their own picnics, drank McLaughlin wine, and chatted with each other. I had the best time watching the outstanding band, laughing with the audience, and sitting in a gorgeous setting. If you need something relaxing and lovely to do on a Sunday afternoon, check out McLaughlin Vineyards!

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

While I love shopping online (I mean, buying clothes while lying in bed is one of life's loveliest luxuries), there is something to be said about instant gratification in shopping. Unfortunately, the internet doesn't normally allow for the feeling of instant gratification, unless, of course you are buying from Happy Paper's shop. I searched for "love notes" on Etsy and came across this amazing find: Matryoshkas Stationery Set. What is this, exactly? Happy Paper is a company that designs paper items, from stationary to gift cards to birthday hats; you buy their design, download the PDF file, print it on your own printer, and voila: instant beautiful paper goods right in your own house! What a fantastic idea! For only $5, when you order your set (and they have a ton of gorgeous designs), you will receive a high quality PDF files containing instructions and recommendations, letter paper, note pad paper, to do list note paper, flat notecards, folded notecards, gift tags, envelope, and patterns. The best part is, you can reprint these as many times as you please! It's such an amazing deal. Why go out and buy a set of expensive invitations when you can buy this hand drawn PDF file and reprint thousands of invites?! I love this idea! The Matryoshka doll design is adorable, simple, classic, and very professional looking. What a perfect rainy day gift for yourself!

Lovely Dress of the Day

Well Ladies and Gents, I'm headed to San Francisco in a few days for some sight seeing, food eating and exploration of all things lovely with my dear friend Alex. I'll be blogging regularly about the Lovely which is San Francisco, and until then I'll packing, repacking, writing lists about packing and wishing I had this dress to wear. The Keiko Lynn Dress is just perfect for the high, high hills, for walking the Golden Gate, and for brunch at Dottie's followed quickly by lunch in Chinatown. The lace is so beautifully contrasted by the polka dots, which I always think bring a bit of humor to any outfit and creates such an elegant neckline. And if the morning fog makes the pre-coffee walk a bit chilly throw on a neutral colored cardigan, or jean jacket. It's a perfect dress for running around town all day, exploring parks, the SFMOMA, and buying gifties for the lovelies back home at sweet little boutiques.

For more information, pictures and to buy click here.

Lovely Sale Time: Lovely Gift Time!

Red letter day over here at Lovely At Your Side! Land's End Overstocks is selling their Canvas Tote With Patent Leather Trim Tote Bag for $14.99! Originally sold for $49.50, this bag is on a tremendous sale right in time for school. Offered in seven gorgeous colors, the tote is perfect for toting books from the library, carrying diapers and bottles, running away for the weekend to a friend's house, as a grocery bag, or even simply as your everyday get-up-and-go bag. For this price, make sure to get one for all the special people in your life! And, for only $5, add that special touch of the monogram and make this a bag that your friends will always remember you by! The bag is "constructed with dyed-to-match, durable cotton twill full lining, hidden inside snap closure, three inside pockets, one outside pocket, reinforced bottom. Measures 18"Wx10 5/8"Hx5 1/4"D."

What are some great gift ideas to use with the Canvas Patent Leather Tote?

• For your friend moving into her own apartment: The Berry Tote filled with a bottle of wine, set of coasters, and American Vintage Wine Biscuits (had these this weekend, so delicious!).
• For your ambitiously creative friend starting her first job: The Black Tote packed with a mini-umbrella, pair of foldable ballet pumps, and Vera Bradley folders to hold all her important papers (don't forget the mini bottle of champagne to pop at the end of the first week!).
• For the friend in your life who travels at the drop of a hat: The Dark Cobalt Blue Tote filled to the brim with airplane regulation sized lotions; passport cover; personalized water bottle from Lilly Bean Designs (these are so cute!).
  
• For your country-friend with a green thumb: The Pistachio Tote stuffed with Wildflower seeds; a straw hat; and an apron. She can return the favor by donating her homegrown vegetables to your next dinner party!
  

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

Yesterday, while helping one of my best girls from college move into her own (very cute!) apartment, I got to thinking about friendship; friendship necklaces, to be exact. Remember, back in the day, we all wore those split-heart necklaces? The popular girls' necks would be drowning in them; some girls had one special necklace; other girls were those "friendship bracelet" types. While watching the lovely Taylor haul her life-in-boxes up flights of stairs, all I could think of was how proud I was of her. It dawned on me that as we get older, the idea of friendship necklaces has dissipated and, while we get our friends presents, there really isn't anything which states, "We share a bond, and I'm proud of you. When you wear this necklace, think of our friendship." Having a true friend is the loveliest thing in the world, and there should be no reason to not celebrate friendship!

However, while the theory of the friendship necklace is lovely, the actual necklace of the split-heart is a little too much for the adult crowd. Lucky for us, Accent Creations specializes in beautiful, updated, and adult-looking friendship necklaces! The "Best friend pendant necklaces with flower and heart" is a classic necklace with a vintage twist; it still has the split-heart, however, the heart is brass, giving the necklace a very antiqued look. The addition of the hearts and gorgeous flower toggle adds the perfect vintage element to turn this necklace into a statement necklace, easily worn with any adorable dress, or jeans and white button down. This is certainly a present I would get for any of my girls, whether it's celebrating their first apartment, birthdays, weddings, or even just to say, "You mean the world to me."

Lovely Dress of the Day

Happy Monday, Lovelies! I have the perfect dress to get you through the week and to wear through the weekend- yes, I know, it's exciting! The Reversible Party Dress from the amazing RoseRed Shop on Etsy is absolutely darling. My gosh, the only reason I'm picking this dress over all of her others is because it's the dress of the day.. but honestly, I can't choose. Who could? The Reversible Party Dress is made to order in cotton jersey. It's perfect for warm weather activities during the day and can easily be matched with dazzling earrings and even some sandally heels for an evening out. I also absolutely crave this color of periwinkle.
But, like I said.. the dresses on the shop are amazing, and I refuse to post just one.

1. Peach Orchard Wedding Dress, 2. Perfume and Powered Sugar Dress, 3. Pierrot le Fou, Bleu (get-away dress), 4. Stockholm Dress, 5. Peach Ordchard Dress.

For updates on her work, life and shop check out the RoseRed Blog and for more beauty, and to buy her creations, visit her shop.

P.S. The store also makes custom Waldorf Dolls, which I fear Olivia will now go buy many of.

Lovely Birthday Wishes

I know I wished you all a splendid weekend, but I can't sleep and I was browsing Wikipedia and found out that today, August 22nd, is Dorothy Parker's birthday! We here at Lovely At Your Side consider Ms. Parker to be an absolute idol, a wonderful influence and a truly beautiful writer.

Happy Birthday, DP. I'll enjoy the lovely day in your memory.

And I'll present you, lovely readers, with one of my favorite Parker poems.

For A Favorite Granddaughter
Never love a simple lad,
Guard against a wise,
Shun a timid youth and sad,
Hide from haunted eyes.

Never hold your heart in pain
For an evil-doer;
Never flip it down the lane
To a gifted wooer.

Never love a loving son,
Nor a sheep astray;
Gather up your skirts

and run
From a tender way.

Never give away a tear,
Never toss a pine;
Should you heed my words, my dear,
You're no blood of mine!

picture courtesy of wikipedia.

Lovely Dress of the Day

Some beauty for your weekend in the form of a dress that costs (on sale!) half of my impending trip to San Francisco. Betsey Johnson can be so wonderfully funky, and alternatively she has some of the sweetest dresses I've ever encountered. I wore her to prom. And I want to be married in my prom dress, that's how much I love it.

This beautiful dress is from her spring collection, and I fawned over it in the store, but what do I need another fancy dress for? Someone invite me to something nice! Readers, quick!

Anyway, it's on sale, half off to $227.50, and I think it's just the prettiest thing ever.

Enjoy the dress and the weekend, Lovelies!


For more information, pictures and to buy click here!

Lovely Dress of the Day

Something we here at Lovely At Your Side find absolutely lovely is bluegrass music. We might be Long Island girls, but bluegrass is in our blood, two of our uncles are bluegrass musicians, and in our hearts, we can't disagree with Rhonda Vincent when she declares herself "an all American bluegrass girl and proud of where [she's] been." We can't help but dance when we heard a fiddle start up and some family friend in a cowboy boots and a Princeton hat start to wail. And we find it troublesome that we've never, ever, not even once been to a bluegrass festival. We're both pretty insistent on changing this soon. I hear these festivals go all night, music and food filled, followed by sleeping through the morning, waking up mid after noon and doing it all over again.
1. Draped Short Dress, $13.50; Fab Spaghetti Knit Dress, $12.50; Fab Braided Strap Knit Dress, $13.50.

One thing Olivia and I do not pretend to be in outdoorsy-- try and get us in a tent and most likely we'll laugh, but promise us delicious food, lots of music and a pretty new dress and we might soften to the idea. For the dress of the day I've picked three low priced jersey dresses available in navy. This is intentional, the dresses are light and comfortable, and navy is a neutral, so that you can wear the dresses over and over and make them different every day. Wear it one day with a scarf covering your hair, the next with a pair of cowboy boots, and then with a belt around your waist. Switch the scarf to a belt one day, and pile on a cute cardigan (protect your arms from pesky mosquitoes!) another day. Match it with a pair of outrageous earrings which clatter when you dance, or a plaid button down tied at your waist for those chilly evenings. And when the whole thing is over, if the dress is just too far gone, too stained, or torn or smells too much like campfire smoke to salvage, let it go. Cut it into rags for car or window washing, knowing the investment of the dress paid off and that it's time, like all things in life, to let it go.

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

I love trains. I love taking them to visit friends, new cities, concerts, shows; whatever it is and wherever I am going, I find trains to be a somewhat romantic transportation vehicle. Call me crazy, but what's more romantic than stepping off a train and seeing the person waiting for you on the other side of the platform? However, there has to be a perfect train bag for traveling overnight to see friends. It can't be too slouchy (than it falls on the floor); it can't be too big (it gets stuck between the aisle seats); it must have a zipper (so all your things don't fall all over the place); and it can't be too small (how do you pack that extra train-sweater?).

Therefore, when I came across the ReJenerate Custom Overnight Bag from the Australian store, Rejenerate, the first thing that flashed in my mind was: perfect overnight train bag! First of all, I love this bag because it's what is known as a "convertible bag"; it has two straps, a long and a short. I am a huge, huge fan of convertible bags because they just make life that much easier when trying to swerve the crowds while traveling. Second of all, this great bag is totally customizable! We all know how I feel about things you can customize. Jennie Smith, the owner and designer, says, "Work with me to create your perfect overnight/weekend bag. All of my creations are made entirely from vintage and recycled fabrics. You can go for something funky, something pretty, something shabby chic - pick your fabrics from my huge stash!" How lovely is that? Imagine the many different bags you can create! The bag is the perfect shape, and combined with the customizable element, you and Jennie can create a bag that will be your perfect-train-bag for ages to come. Also, it's eco-friendly because she is reusing fabric to create new and amazingly beautiful pieces!

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

This vintage silver necklace is sure to make a statement with your next outfit! It was found at an Estate Sale on the North Shore of Long Island.

It features a diamond shaped pendant, with delicate lace-like carvings; there is a silver chain tassel hanging down from the pendant. This would look amazing dressed up for a party, or even dressed down with jeans and t-shirt!

The silver chain is approximately 50 inches long; but there is a clasp, so it can be shortened. The necklace is very clean and does not look worn at all.

This is a great one-of-a-kind find piece which is truly original, unique, and a perfect accessory to your wardrobe!

Lovely Dress of the Day

I love this little number from ModCloth, the Seraphine Dress, it's perfect for everyday activities like errands, grabbing lunch and walking the puppy. Or for a dinner out, even a party. It's really perfect for putting on alongside the soundtrack to "Walk The Line" and belting out songs in a southern twang, pretending your June Carter Cash. And no, I've totally never done that (yet today). This dress would also be perfect for the events of my day: gambling at Mohegan Sun. Despite the fact that I have practically zero interest in gambling (Olivia is our lovely little gambler with the great idea to invest our capital and try to double it, I clearly nixed that.) I know I'd feel like a million bucks at the tables in this dress, with the puffy sleeves and the bright colors. I'd probably pull an accent inadvertantly, the spirit of the dress just might take over. You say how creepy, I say how lovely.

For more information, pictures and to buy click here.

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

I have this slight obsession with The Style Network. I mean, who wouldn't fall in love with a television channel that focuses on home design, fashion, and weddings? Last night, while watching a show about wedding cakes, I started to get slightly (okay, very) interested in the concept of "cake toppers." For those of you who don't know, a cake topper is the image of the bride and groom (or whatever the bride and groom want) that literally tops the cake. Some people like to have extravagant toppers (they get actual likenesses of them for their toppers); some people like to have cutesy images of the bride and groom in shackles; some people do animals, instead of real people. If you haven't noticed already, I tend to stick to simplicity. I like the basics of life, the natural elements, the understated and elegant. Therefore, when I searched "cake toppers" on Etsy (and by the by, Etsy has an amazing wedding section...let's not even get started on the custom dresses) and found cake toppers by NakedPeggies and Lollipop Workshop, I knew I wanted to share them with you (even if you aren't getting married, which I am not, these adorable toppers are so much fun to browse through).

NakedPeggies (love the name) is based out of Massachusetts, and features little wooden cake toppers which are customized and hand painted to match the bride and groom's own physical features. Their toppers aren't necessarily just for the cake, but people use them to "adorn their card table, or head table (I can do your whole wedding party), house party table settings, engagement presents or just to show off their new love on their desk at work!" What a great idea, to get the whole wedding party as a little gift to all your friends! I absolutely love the simplicity of these little people. It's an understated sort of message: we have each other, we don't need a crazy, over the top likeness of us, we just need these little painted people. I also happen to have fallen for the NakedPeggies because they are extremely reminiscent of the drawings and dolls created by the amazing Joan Walsh Anglund. NakedPeggies also sell Do It Yourself NakedPeggies! What a great idea for a bridal shower, or a family reunion, or even just a special night in for the two of you.

If you want just a little more detail on your cake topper, while still staying simple, classic, and beautiful, than Lollipop Workshop is the place to go. Lollipop Workshop, based out of New York, features cake toppers which come dressed to match the bride and groom; they are amazingly detailed and deliciously adorable. On their website they have a detailed questionnaire about the wedding dress and groom's suit; from there, they detail your cake topper to look just enough like you to make all your guests smile. However, they still keep that lovely simplicity to the topper, and their little smiles and (sometimes winking!) very sweet eyes, make these little people come alive. I adore that they are holding hands; it seems to me that Lollipop Workshop strives to not only show the love between two people, but the friendship between them. You can feel the playful love that the bride and groom have for each other in these toppers.


What would you have for a cake topper? Or, what did you have?

One of Two Lovely Things

At the moment I am obsessed with two things-- Cameos and Silhouettes. They were on my mind when I stumbled across Vana's Etsy Boutique and then her beautiful blog. I love the oval glass necklace (1), linen custom silhouette pillow (2), and the custom silhouette locket (3).


As well as everything else on her Etsy. I also find it sort of disturbing/exciting/strange that one of her stock silhouettes looks just like me.Honestly, when I was about ten my grandfather made silver silhouettes of all three of us (Olivia, baby brother and me) and this number 23 looks exactly like it. I'll work on tracking down the necklace in my mother's jewelry box as evidence.

Point of the story being that I just love everything Vana is putting out into the universe, her blog, her etsy, her energy. Lovely work Vana, job well done.

Lovely Dress of the Day

Some days are dress up days, some days just don't feel right in yoga pants and a tank, or shorts and a t--some days need increasingly pretty dresses. Today is one of those days for me. I woke up and into a green sleeveless polo dress from Old Navy, and have to figure out an even prettier number for a business meeting tonight. Well, I don't have to, but I want to. I woke up wanting to post a party dress today, and I searched from Forever21 to Anthropologie, from ModCloth (duh) to Express, from Wetseal to the Gap. I found today's gorgeous little dress on Etsy, from Ouma Clothing, and it is adorably called the "Peaches n Cream Party."
Monique, the wonderful creator, writes that the dress "is perfect for any party and great for photographs" (source). The top is stretchy cotton, so it fits all body types (just like the Elastic Colorblock Dress from Forever21) and allows you to enjoy the evening glass of wine in one hand and horderves in the other. For an elegant party look, pair this beauty with nude heels, bare legs, a tiny neutral clutch and a big smile, because how can you not feel absolutely lovely in this sweet number?

P.S. Ouma has some beautiful pieces, check out the Dreamy Day Wedding Dress, the Stripped Tutu Party Dress, and the Dusty Rose Tulle Skirt--moreover, most of the pieces are made to order, so you know you're getting a one of a kind art piece.

For more pictures, information and to buy the "Peaches n Cream Party" click here.
For more Ouma Clothing's Etsy click here.
For OumaClothing.com click here.

Lovely Gift Idea

Upon searching Etsy for all things Leo I happened upon Lucy's Postcard Quilts, which "are Mini Quilted Art Cards[,] Postcards [which] can really be sent in the mail with a stamp. Just stick it on the back and address it with a pen" (source). Each one is different, beautiful and bold-- what a great little gift to surprise someone with in the mail, maybe someone like the Lovely Olivia? Or attach to a lovely piece of jewelry, notebook or set of wooden bowls. What I'm trying to say is these beauties could add some sunshine to anyone's day, additionally they'll never tear, bend or curl with age. They could even be framed, and put on a wall. What a lovely idea.

1. Virgo, muted; 2. Gemini; 3. Libra, muted.

For more information, pictures and to buy click here.

Lovely for Less!

The other day I posted about statement necklaces. While, those necklaces are beyond gorgeous, I know some of you Lovelies are like me and think, "But, Olivia, I don't have that much money to spend on one statement necklace...how can I make a statement for less money?" I searched the internet and found a few necklaces which not only make a statement and are beautiful, but totally affordable too! These necklaces all would also be able to be worn all year, despite the season or the trend.
1. Teardrop Bead Flower Necklace, $14.80
2. Assorted Ring Bead Necklace, $8.80 (!)
3. Fancy Medallions Necklace (also comes in silver), $5.80 (!)
4. Vintage Silver Statement Necklace, $15
5. Vintage Gold Coin Necklace, $15
6. Multi-Strand Necklace with Lucite Ring, $17.99

What Lovely for Less statement necklaces do you own?

Lovely Dress of the Day

I am of the firm belief that summer means a gauzy white dress, and so today I present you with summer compliments of True Kiss Clothing. The Ivory Ruffled Teared Mini Dress would be perfect for a Long Island day like today-hot, hot, and humid. This adorable ruffled number can take you from the changing room at the gym, to your aunt's place for lunch, to a later afternoon meeting and finally, a bar patio for cold mojitos and glasses of wine. Pair it with a tote packed with a water bottle, sun tan lotion and a bikini and you're set for the day, what else could a lovely need?

For more information, pictures and to buy click here.

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

I have this weird obsession with kitchen tables. I believe that the household revolves around the kitchen table, so one must own a table with history, love, and sturdiness built into it. Our kitchen table has so many paint stains and craft marks that it sums up our family's history in just one simple table top. Kitchen tables are like trees: the marks on the table reveal the history of the owners. Whenever I go to antique shops, I run my hand over the smooth wooden tables, each containing their own history, and think about what the table would be like in my future house.

Lucky for us, Etsy isn't just contained to dresses, rings, and pillows, but beautiful handmade furniture, as well. This morning on Etsy I came across this gorgeous salvaged cherry table from Barn Owl Furniture. It is made from "reclaimed cherry. The wood was salvaged from the hay loft floor of a barn built in 1886 in Illinois." The wood has such history to it, I love it! I can't even imagine what that wood would (ha) say if it could talk. I happen to love cherry; the color is so romantic, and it tends to pick up the feeling of whatever room it is in all the while adding great character to the room. This is a totally handmade table; "The table top and supporting frame is antique cherry. The legs are made from reclaimed southern yellow pine from the same barn." I love the idea of taking wood from one barn and making it into a brand new piece of history. Talk about being eco-friendly!

This is exactly the type of table that I would love to have in my house someday. I can just picture holidays, birthdays, late night talks, and hot chocolate post-snow meetings occurring at the table. I know when I have a house, someday, I'll be checking Etsy for great one-of-a-kind finds that I can make part of my family's history.

Lovely Mail Day!

I absolutely love getting mail. I think the concept of real "snail-mail" is one of the most romantic theories. It takes a lot of effort (and almost half a dollar!) to send someone a piece of mail. I love seeing my address on the envelope, knowing that someone had me in their thoughts and wanted to brighten my day by sending something, even just a little note, in the mail. This past week, Lovely At Your Side has received two amazing packages in the mail!

If you'll all remember, our dear friend, Bliss Cookies makes deliriously delicious brownies, cookies, cookie dough, and candies. The other day in the mail we received a package of goodies from Bliss Candies. It included Chewy Fudge Snack Brownies and Soft Oatmeal Cream Pie Cookie Sandwiches. It was a sunny day when the package came, so I sat outside on the front lawn, tore open the plastic wrapping and enjoyed the delicious moment. The brownies were the perfect chocolate taste, made my mouth water, and the texture was brownie-perfect. The cookies were soft and chewy, the cream was super-sweet, and I loved biting into the sandwich and tasting the cookie and cream together. The idea of a cookie sandwich with oatmeal cookies was brilliant and supremely delicious (could this count as a healthy snack? Sure, in our book, it is). I highly suggest getting gifts from Bliss Cookies to send for birthdays, anniversaries, or even just as a little sunny-day gift for yourself!

The other beautiful package that came in the mail was my posey ring from Kathryn Riechert's store. I finally bought this ring about a week ago (I really didn't think that the ring would be here so fast!) and had it engraved with "love to love" on the outside and the Latin, "ama amare" on the inside. I was totally blown away by how beautiful the ring is. Kathryn packaged the ring beautifully, in a sweet little box, wrapped with ribbon, and it came with a matching blue bag to keep the ring in. It was a perfect present for myself! The ring fits me like a glove (or a ring?) and it is shiny, smooth, and looks like it cost way more than I paid for it. I've been showing it off to everyone! It is truly lovely and gorgeous. I can't wait to order more.

Lovely Dress of the Day

In ongoing appreciation of Mad Men, which I haven't gotten to watch yet- no spoilers(!), and by total luck the dress[es] of the day come to you from Audrey and Grace, via etsy. Maybe I should just call the proprietor of Audrey and Grace and give her the access code to my banking account in exchange for dresses, dresses and more dresses, because it would be less painful than not owning one of these beauties. You can just see in the craft work that the creator knows what they're doing, Lovely At Your Side's resident grandmother, biology teacher and seamstress commented that the creator was "A person who knows how to use, drape and manipulate fabric, a true artist." Each dress is prettier than the next, the fullness of the skirts, the perfectly picked out fabrics, the fact that all dresses are made to order. Customized is honestly one of my favorite words, have you noticed?

1. Gorgeous Sweethaert Neckline Super Full Skirt Rockabilly Cocktail Swing Dress, 2. Ravishing Floral Custom Fifties Ultra Elegant Cocktail Dress, 3. Gorgeous Custom Paisley Bateau Neckline Super Full Skirt Cocktail Dress, 4. Beautiful Summer Checks and Plaid Green and Blue Taffeta Halter Dress, 5. Amazing Custom Silk Evening Dress With Gorgeous Back and Attached Petticoat

The skirts available are just as perfectly lovely, and p.s. yellow walls and white chair rail? I need.

For more information, items, pictures and to buy from Audrey and Grace click here.

Lovely Etsy Find of the Day

Sometimes, as the seasons change, as the summer ends, and as the moon wanes, we feel a desperate need to change something in our life. Do we dye our hair? Do we change our wardrobe? Do we buy a new car? Personally, when I need a new change, I like to redo my room. My aunt tends to move all the furniture in her house around whenever she needs a change. I like to change the quilts on my wall, move my artwork around, and reorganize the closets, but sometimes even that doesn't heed enough change.

It's too expensive to buy a whole new sheet set, so when I feel like I need a more drastic room change, I simply change up my pillow covers. I love pillows. I probably have about ten too many on my bed. So, when I saw these adorable pillow covers from Cotton Colors, based in Jackson, Mississippi, I knew they would do the job and add beautiful change to any room.

I particularly love the Chocolate Regency, The Happy Birds (love the retro look of this!), Little Chirps, and the Brick-Red Damask; they are all 16 inches, and do not come with a pillow, but U.S. buyers can add a pillow to complete the look for only ten dollars. To be quite honest, all the covers are gorgeous and would perk up any room, in any house, dorm room, apartment, or even car or cubicle!

PS. These would be a great mother's day present, present for grandmothers, graduates, new brides, housewarming, or, get one for yourself to change your room up today!

A Lovely Idea

When I first met Sarah we were 14; I was quiet, shy and scared, she was excited, friendly and very outgoing. Sarah could make light of any situation, and oh, how many situations you have when you're 14 and a freshman in high school. She was always ready to patch a group date gone awry with a joke, or offer up an outfit when you had just absolutely nothing in your wardrobe (I will always feel that way, I fear). Today I'm proud to feature Sarah on Lovely At Your Side as someone who's doing something great for themselves and others-- on Sunday, September 20th, Sarah will be running in the Philadelphia Half Marathon. Besides being totally impressed by the ability to run 13.1 miles, Sarah continues to impress by running for the Michael Piegare Foundation, a sports scholarship program founded in honor of the late Michael Piegare. The Foundation:

"recognizes the positive and powerful role organized sports play in the development of our youth. The mission of the Foundation is to nurture and empower young athletes to be the best they can be and help fulfill their athletic dreams. It will do so through its financial support of organizations and events that promote and shape leadership and teamwork qualities in young athletes and award scholarship funding to those exhibiting the exceptional attributes Michael is notoriously remembered for." (source)

Lovely At Your Side truly appreciates the promotion, practice and understanding of true talent, and it is because of that that we here find this Foundation truly Lovely. Best of luck to Sarah in the coming training month, and we'll let you know how the half marathon goes for her after the 20th. She is accepting donations for the foundation, Lovely At Your Side will be contributing and we hope you will too.

To donate (via paypal, credit card or check) click here.
For information on the Michael Piegare Foundation click here.
To contact the Michael Piegare Foundation email them at info@michaelpiegare.com, or click here

Pictured: Sarah and Michael Piegare