The Good Girl Gone Blog

Triumphs and Struggles February 22, 2011

Triumph: Coming up with some really awesome partnership campaigns for G3B.

Struggle: Getting a little too focused on losing a few lbs before Mexico.

Triumph: My 6 month anniversary with Eric is today- it's my longest and most "real" relationship yet.

Struggle: The bone chilling cold is back in Boston and it's brutal. 

Triumph: Coming home to a Trader Joe's stocked fridge complete with blueberries, yogurt and tamales (c/o Eric).

Struggle: Feeling faint after not eating enough today- I need to eat more tomorrow!

Triumph: The bouquet of fresh flowers on my shelf - lilies, Gerbera daisies, etc (c/o Eric). I was hoping there'd be a surprise bouquet waiting for me when I got back to Boston, but I wasn't sure.

Struggle: I'm pretty sure the right click on my Mac is now broken. Add it to the list of ailments. Time to get a new one?

Triumph: It's supposed to be 80+ degrees in Mexico, which means swimming, sundresses and sandals!

Struggle: Feeling unmotivated to work out.

Triumph: Seeing videos of my Mom telling bedtime stories to my new nephew in Israel. I still haven't met him yet, so the videos were particularly meaningful to me.

Sigh. I'm off to relax and watch some TV. Oh, and treat myself with a cookie...or 2.

PS- how funny is that picture? Way to go, wind!

Since You've Been Asking... February 04, 2011

A bunch of exciting things are happening in my life, and many of you have messaged me to spill the deets. I've finally gotten around to blogging about a few things I've already shared/hinted at on Facebook and Twitter. 

First and foremost, my older sister just had her first baby, Moshe Aaron, making me a first time aunt. I am beyond excited! Though I've seen a bunch of pictures of the baby, I won't be able to see him in person for a while because he lives in Israel. He is seriously one of the cutest babies I've ever seen- he has a full head of hair and my mom and sister are convinced he looks just like I did as a baby. 

Secondly, I have an exciting trip planned for early March with Eric- we're going to Mexico! After a few months of below freezing temperatures and way too much snow, we decided we needed a break that involved sunshine, sand, laziness and lots of tropical juices. We'll be gone from March 3-8, so if you'd like to guest blog, please let me know!

And finally, what you've all really been asking about- the new job. Yes, it happened very quickly, but I'm starting a new job this Monday at Likeable! I debated whether or not to talk about my new job on the blog, but I've accepted the kind of position where full disclosure is welcomed and encouraged.

I'm looking forward to working alongside some very talented people, learning a ton and doing what I love- helping brands succeed through creative social media marketing. 

I apologize for the excess of !!s in this post, but you know, I'm sort of excited. Have a great weekend, everyone!

V-Day Gifts for the Stylish Boyfriend February 03, 2011

I truly love Valentine's Day- my mom always sends me the cutest gifts (her favorite are of the singing animal variety), my dad sends flowers (although after the dead flowers incident, he's vowed never to send flowers again and says that responsibility belongs to my boyfriend), my stepmom sends conversation hearts and my best friend Becca usually sends a homemade card. 

Of course, Valentine's Day is infinitely more fun when you have someone to share it with. I know it's just a regular day and we should celebrate love all the time, but it's still special. 

Although I can think of tons of things I'd get for my girlfriend if I were a boy, I don't really know what I want to get Eric yet. He's sort of hard to shop for, being all cultured and fashionable and stuff. I'll probably just get him a hug and a steak.

Jokes aside, here are some things I think would make great gifts for any stylish boyfriend:

1. A piece of clothing with a cute hidden message- I once (poorly) embroidered the underside of a tie I bought Eric with "143". This is sort of the pre-made version, the I Frickin' Love You Pants from Bonobos.t
2. Warm gloves that I wouldn't mind stealing/hand holding- Ragg Wool and Leather Gloves from Hickoree's Hard Goods. I love that the palms are leather.
3. Dark, Sea Salted Chocolate- Sea Salt Soiree from Ghiradelli is almost perfect...but it has almonds in it. Perfect if you're not allergic to nuts and want your boyfriend to give you a thank you kiss, not perfect if you are.
4. A cute bow tie- some people's boyfriends refuse to wear bow ties, even though their girlfriends are positive they'd look adorable in them. This Grassfire Bow from Pierrepont Hicks is reversible!
5. Some fancy man face products- my boyfriend loves Jack Black products, and he's sort of converted me as well. (I've been known to use the Beard Lube to shave my legs and I love the Daily Facial Cleanser  and Cool Moisture Body Lotion!)  I think this Supreme Cream Triple Cushion Shave Lather sounds luxurious and would be especially useful for eliminating the always unfriendly facial stubble.

What are you getting your honey for V-day this year?

An Extravagant Birthday Wish List December 30, 2010

My birthday is coming up in less than a month, so I wanted to make a fun birthday wish list. Of course, this list is going to be over the top, but that's part of the game! Everything on this list will cost over $150 and nothing included is something I actually need. This should be fun :)

1. The new MacBook Air

I had a scare the other day and thought my 4.5 year old MacBook was going to die. Fortunately (this time!) it was just Eric's wireless. Still, it got me thinking, I'd love a slimmer, faster, newer computer. I think at some point I'm going to buy one for myself- it will be my first real big purchases of, well, ever.

2. A flash for my Nikon

One upon a time (last year), my dad let me borrow his extra flash for my semester in England. I hardly used it. Then, my little sister got into photography school in Israel and actually needed it, so we gave it to her. I forgot about it for a while until I shot pictures at our company holiday party using our photographer's nikon + flash. They turned out extremely well.

3. An iPad

Oh, and I want the new one. If the rumors are true, it sounds pretty amazing!

4. Burberry Earmuffs

I don't know why, but these seem to be unavailable everywhere. Sure, it's impractical to pay upwards of $150 for a pair of earmuffs, but this is my extravagant list, right?

5. A portrait lens like my dad's

Shallow depth of field? Yes please!

6. A classic Chanel Bag

Please, it goes with everything, even sneakers and jeans.

7. Vintage pink Vespa with sidecar

For me and Zooey, obviously. How cute would she look in a sidecar? Plus, it totally matches her leash and collar!

Update your Winter Look: Accessories Under $25 November 11, 2010

You did the hard work last year and found the perfect coat that fit your style and budget, so why should you have to do it again? By purchasing a well-made, classic coat, you can stay stylish from year to year without overspending.

Last year, after an arduous search process, I came across this stunning red ruffled coat from J. Crew:

Though the price was a bit over budget (around $225 on sale), I knew it was a necessary addition to my wardrobe and hoped that I'd be able to wear it past the 2009-2010 season. After a winter of constant wear, the coat needs a bit of dry cleaning and some quick fixes to the lining, but other than that, it's perfect.

To update a classic wool coat, look for fun accessories that will add uniqueness to your look, while helping you stay warm.

1. The Scarf

Choose a well made scarf in a solid color. This way, you can wear it with other pieces and it will never go out of style.

At just 14.99, this Merona Solid Wrap is a steal.

Alternatively, you could try an animal print for a more sassy look. These types of scarves also look great with sweaters, so you can keep wearing your accessory even indoors!

Modcloth's Shawl of the Wild Scarf would make any coat look sexy, and costs $19.99.

2. The Broach

In addition to scarves, an eye catching broach is a stylish addition to your winter look. Add it to your lapel, pin it to a scarf, wear it on a hat...there are tons of possibilities. Broaches can be found at your favorite discount stores, as well as at flea markets, antique stores and online marketplaces like etsy.

I love the colors and texture of this unique One Groovy Flower Broach, found on Etsy for just $15.00. BONUS: It can be worn as a hair clip as well!

This Vintage Style Crystal Pin can be worn on a white winter hat for a snowflake effect, and costs just $22.99. It's perfect for girls that like standing out.

DIY it: Feeling creative? Why not hit up your local craft store for beads, rhinestones, feathers and sequins and make your own personalized broach? Old costume jewelery works well too, so check out your grandmother's jewelery box for one-of-a-kind pieces and inspiration.

3. The Over-the-Knee Socks

Choose warm, tall, over-the-knee socks to wear over tights and beneath boots. Over-the-knee socks are an inexpensive and stylish accessory that can immediately update a winter look.

Choose a pair of detailed socks, like these Wrinkle Press Knee High Socks from Lulu's ($17.00) to add a pop of color to your wardrobe. They'll look fabulous popping out of a pair of knee-high boots, or paired with a knee-length skirt and booties.

For a playful touch, don't be afraid to mix bold patterns. Not sure which patterns to wear together? These Rhubarb Pie OTK Socks ($22.99) from Spotted Moth do the hard work for you by pairing polka dots with stripes. Plus, they look very cozy!

4. The Headgear

One piece of Winter accessory advice: you don't need to wear a boring beanie to keep your head warm this winter. Instead, look for a vintage-inspired hat or a chunky-knit headband.

I love feminine details, like the bow on this Read All About It! Pageboy Cap from Ruche, just $19.99.

Cozy knit headbands keep your ears warm while still looking stylish. I'd wear this Asos Flower Detail Bright Knitted Headband ($17.24) with the flower on the side.

How are you updating your outerwear, while staying on budget, this Winter?

Day 4: Fun facts

Fact 1: This blue blouse is one of my favorites because it's ruffled, belted and has great texture. Plus, it was one of my London purchases, which makes it extra special- I bet I won't find any other Boston girls with this top!

Fact 2: My mom and I both have this exact pair of jeans, purchased a size too big from Loehmann's. We both wish we'd gotten the smaller versions.

Fact 3: I scored this Loft cardigan at the Swapaholics Sip and Swap. It was a great find. I love it and can't stop wearing it.

Fact 4: For the most part, I hate wearing white socks. I find it's harder to find their mates post-laundry if they're not brightly colored. Luckily, I'm dating a guy whose sock collection is even louder than mine- see here.

Outfit Details: Blouse: TKMaxx, Sweater: Loft via swap, Jeans: Salt Works via Loehmann's, Shoes: Buffalo Exchange

G3B's pro guide to (stylish and comfy) travel September 02, 2010

I don't think you have to sacrifice comfort for style...or style for comfort, when traveling. After four years of traveling for holidays, family events, work trips and gallavanting around Europe, I think I've got this travel thing figured out. Here are my tips for stylish and comfortable travel...plus some photos of my outfit for today's flight to Boston. Enjoy:

Tip 1: When possible, leave the luggage at home. For short trips, travel sans-heavy luggage and fill up a nice sized carry on. I love my Betseyville Wheelie Suitcase, it's a great conversation starter and people are always more than happy to help lift it into the overhead bin. Plus, you don't have to worry about luggage getting lost, waiting in line at baggage claim, or extra fees. Oh, and I look ridiculous trying to lug a big suitcase on public transportation- it's no easy feat, trust me.

Tip 2: Choose the right shoes. Although not all airports require you to take off your shoes at security, many do. As a result, you need to wear shoes that are easy to pull off and put on quickly. No one likes that person in line that's spending 20 minutes lacing their shoes...or the person who can't get their baby stuff figured out, but that's another story. I don't recommend wearing flip flops, only because your toes might get cold on the flight. Personally, I like wearing pull-on boots like Uggs (sorry!) in the winter, but today, I'm wearing heels. Why? I find flats uncomfortable, and I like looking nice when I travel. This pair has a pretty thick heel and a platform for extra support- I'd call them "comfy heels."

Tip 3: Dress for a cold plane. No matter what the weather is outside, airplanes always seem to be about -50 degrees. As a result, I've learned not to travel with bare legs (think dresses) and ALWAYS bring some sort of sweater or jacket in case I get cold. Bonus: if you're not cold, you can use that sweater/jacket as a pillow.

Tip 4: Leave most of your toiletries at home. Because I typically carry on my luggage, I always run into the issue of liquid toiletries going over the 1 oz limit (although to be honest, I don't always separate my liquids or stay under the limit and have never gotten in trouble). Think about it this way- if you're going to a hotel, they'll have shampoo, conditioner and soap...and if you're visiting friends or family, they'll have all of that plus toothpaste. I really hate having to go into my stuff to pull out a clear plastic bag of toiletries- it takes too much time in line, and I sort of resent the slow people who waste time doing it.

Tip 5: Choose a seat in the front. I'm sure many of you have been doing this for a while, but it's a new concept for me. Not having to wait in your seat for everyone else to board? Great! Deplaning before you have time to get antsy? Fabulous!

Tip 6: Don't travel in jeans. I don't care what anyone says, jeans are not comfortable unless they're stretchy. Yes, I'm going there. I don't particularly enjoy wearing jeans, especially when I have to be sitting for a long period of time. Go for leggings or a pair of stretchy (but not frumpy) pants...or better yet, wear a dress and tights!

A strategic breakdown of my travel outfit:

Jacket: tailored and fun, but made out of comfy sweatshirt material. PERFECT for keeping warm and acting as a substitute pillow.

Headband: great for keeping hair out of your eyes when putting your hair up isn't an option (because it's uncomfortable in airplane chairs).

Soft, stretchy pants: see my rant on jeans.

Sleeveless top: because it's hot outside

Comfy heels: easy to remove in the security line or on the plane.

I need a little luck this weekend, so cross your fingers for me. Hopefully Hurricane Earl won't affect my travel plans. Boston, here I come! Expect some FABULOUS photos and a big giveaway announcement!

Outfit details: Jacket,shoes and pants- Loehmann's, tank- Target, belt- H&M, necklace- gift from Megan, headband- c/o Embelle Boutique

Milestones May 14, 2010

It's been all sorts of crazy over at the G3B residence. Lot of exciting stuff going on over here, folks. Because it's 12:00 and I have to leave my house in approximately six hours to catch a flight to Boston, I'm going to be especially brief.

Here's the deal:

1. At 4 pm this Sunday, my family and I will be attending my college graduation. Just two and a half hours later, I will be the proud owner of a diploma boasting my BS in Communication.
2. My apartment is on its way to becoming an amazing home. Though it's still missing most of my furniture, it is housing a majority of my shoes and clothing, as well as a two cute couches and a bunch of Cuisinart steals from Rue La La.
3. I got a job, at least for the summer. I start work on Wednesday and I'm going to get to do some really awesome stuff. Stay tuned.
4. My little sister comes home from Israel on June 3rd for the rest of the summer.
5. Thibault is coming to visit me for two weeks in June!

...and that's all for now. Hopefully all this excitement won't get in the way of me falling asleep tonight!

Stylish Snippet: summer hats May 11, 2010

Under $20: Eugenia Kim for Target

• Straw Fedora with Black/White Trim- Green- $16.99
• 20's Style Straw Cap with Green Trim- Natural- $16.99 (just got this one!)
• Fedora with Flower Applique- Tan- $16.99

Under $30: Gap, AMI Clubwear, Modcloth

• Nautical Floppy Hat- $24.50
• Khaki Stitching Faux Leather Strap O-Ring Sun Hat - $28.99
• Grahm Cracker Cloche- $29.99

Under $40: ASOS, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters

• 70's Scarf Floppy Hat- $30.44
• Baker Cloche- $34.00
• Stripes Large Bow Cloche- $34.00

Under $50: Free People, Anthropologie (x2)

• Safari Hat- $48.00
• Chlorophyll Cloche- $48.00
• Consomme Cap- $48.00

Stylish Snippet: petite shopping tips May 05, 2010

As you all know, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a fashionista-in-training. I get a lot of my inspiration from watching TV reading fashion blogs and seeing stylish people on the street. It also helps to get tips from people who know what they're talking about when it comes to clothes, especially when they understand what it means to be tiny.

Enter Henrietta Pertuz, a designer whose clothing is tailored for petite and stylish ladies like myself. Here are a few tips on shopping petite from Henrietta herself, as well as some photos of her pieces. Enjoy!

Henrietta Pertuz's five tips for petite fashionistas:

1) If you buy something off the rack in a regular size and you are petite (5'4" or shorter), it probably does not fit you correctly.  I learned this the hard way, and it's the reason why I started my clothing line.  I spent most of my twenties in clothes with sleeves that partly covered my hands, armholes that were too low, dresses that hit mid-calf and pants that were too long -- or hemmed with masking tape, or hemmed too short. Either find time for the tailor or buy clothes made for petite women.  

2) Stay away from pants that are too long.  I still can't erase the image of myself falling on my face in front of my college crush because my jeans were too long!  A 29"-30" inseam works for most petite women.  If you are a shorter petite (under 5'0") and must hem, still start with a petite size.  This way, at least you know the rise and hip measurements will fit you and you won't have to recreate the whole garment. 

 

3) Baggy clothes don't do us any favors.  I wore lots of baggy sweaters and muu muu-esque clothes after gaining the freshman 15, and still shudder in horror when I see the photos!  I looked like I had gained the freshman 30.  The reverse is true, too.  If you are tiny (say, under 100 lbs), wearing really baggy clothes can make you look much younger.  Petite women have lots of different body shapes.  If you are more voluptuous, as many petite women are, you should embrace your curves. 

 

4) Dressing in one color and wearing vertical lines (pleats, ruffles, or stripes) can definitely lengthen your frame.  But finding the right fit is just as important.  Those stripes won't work for you unless the garment fits well.  

5) Finding good fit and quality is much more important than following a trend.  If you like the way something fits you, and it is well-made, then you should buy it in 2-3 colors and keep it forever.  Buy wardrobe "building blocks" that fit and flatter your body shape.  Shift dresses, skinny pants that go from day to night, the perfect button down blouse to show off your lovely collarbone...these are examples of investment pieces that will never go out of style.  You can pass down to your kids, nieces, etc. and they'll love you for it!