Shannon Ables's Blog, page 309
November 27, 2015
This & That: No. 186 & Black Friday Shopping Deals
Book
~Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carm and Shana Knizhnik
The second woman to ever serve on the United States Supreme Court and the current senior female on the bench, associate justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, without intention, has fascinated the public. Known for decades due to her intellect and feminist pioneering ideology, she is in the spotlight in Notorious RBG which was just released last month. Included in the book is a vast survey of her interns, family and even Ginsburg herself. Stretching from ponderous topics such as gender equality and civil rights to her everyday routine (she shares her workout regimen as well), readers who are already curious about the small, yet mighty woman, will want to pick up the book.
~How to Love Wine: A Memoir and a Manifesto by Eric Asimov
As the chief wine critic for The New York Times, Eric Asimov shares where the wine culture is today and where it has come from. If wine piques your curiosity in the least bit, whether you are a neophyte to the wine world or have a seasoned nose, this book may just be of interest to you.
Music
~Ben Sollee
As I mentioned last week, I am having a bit of a love affair with the cello. And it just so happened that young cellist Ben Sollee has already made a name for himself at a very young age. Having released a fourth album last year, this Kentucky born talent ventured to Bend earlier this month, which brought him to my attention. The most recent album, Half Made Man, explores what many of us do in our twenties, embark on the journey of figuring ourselves out. Listen to the album here.
Shopping
~Helmut Lang Stretch-Silk Tunic
On Tuesday, Net-a-Porter’s semi-annual sale began, and as I posted, the reductions are steep and for now, the selection is vast. For example, Helmut Lang’s simple, yet luxurious stretch-silk tunic is still available in all sizes as it is reduced 30%. Layer over skinny or slim jeans, dress pants or any which way you want. Accessorize with a beautiful pendant necklace and let the quality of the top do the talking.
~Vince Cross Body Saddle Bag
Available in a handful of other colors, Vince’s cross body bag in “nut” offers a classic neutral day or evening bag for casual outings without breaking the bank.
Television
~Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce
Okay, a worthwhile guilty pleasure for December will be premiering on Tuesday December 1st. Mark your calendars. Bravo’s widely successful scripted dramedy returns for its second season not a moment too soon. Lisa Edelstein and crew kick off the season of Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce with her character reuniting with her ex-husband. We’ll see how long that lasts as well as what her girlfriends will be up to this season. I cannot wait. Have a look at the trailer below:
~recipe for Fig & Buckwheat Breakfast Tart~
Unofficially, or officially, I am not exactly sure which, the holiday season has begun. And whether you are keeping it simple and staying in with friends and family or hitting the shops to start checking off your gift list, the last month of 2015 is about to begin. Are you ready?
With freshly fallen snow on the ground in many parts of Oregon and much turkey and pie in my belly, I am curious to see what the holiday season will be in a new hometown. I guess part of the journey is not knowing, and that can be trepidatious but exhilarating as well. However, if you will be celebrating this holiday exactly where you were last year, I hope you don’t settle into old ways simply because that is the way it was done before. Welcome what works, tweak what can be improved and remember most importantly, to enjoy the moment, the relationships in which you are accepted for you are and let go of the superficial and what the exterior looks like to onlookers. At the end of the year, I have a feeling you will be thankful you’ve taken such an approach. Below are a few articles you might enjoy, as well as (yes, I will admit it, I am enamored at the moment with Adele) a playful video of Adele singing with Jimmy Fallon and The Roots. Did you know her new album, 25, is now officially the top selling album for the first week of sales since Nielsen has charted sales? Not bad.
And since it is Black Friday, below you will find a long, lovely list of sales and promo codes to use over the bustling shopping weekend. I will be sharing Cyber Monday’s shopping deals early Monday morning, so be to check it out. Also, don’t forget to stop by the blog on Monday for the return of the annual TSLL Holiday Gift Guide. Until then, bon weekend!
~A shift may be what you need when it comes to making the improvements in your life that you seek . . . Change Your Story to Change Your Life
~Just in case you are up early and taking advantage of the sales . . . 11 Tips for Making the Most Out of Black Friday
~A reassuring reminder that stepping up your style simply means adding a 3rd piece
~This post was written on The Art of Manliness blog, but the topic resonants no matter what your sex – Why Every [Wo]Man Should Study Classic Culture
~12 Tough Truths About Great Relationships . . . always a wonderful reminder written by two bloggers that always teach me something more.
BLACK FRIDAY DEALS, CODES & SALES:
Free Shipping on all orders $250
11.27-11.28
30% off
promo code: BLACKFRIDAY
11/27
30% off select clothing , shoes, accessories, jewelry, and watches
promo code: 30BLACKFRI
11.26 – 11.27
50% off EVERYTHING
promo code CELEBRATE
25% off EVERYTHING
promo code: SHOPTOIT
~ASOS
up to 60% off casual looks for men and women
promo code: BLESSED
11.24 – 11.26
20% off entire purchase online and in stores restrictions apply
promo code: WORKIT
11.27 – 11.29
half off sweaters and 40% off the rest of your purchase restrictions apply
promo code: BRFRIDAY
11.26 – 11.27
Half off sweaters and 40% off the rest of your purchase restrictions apply
promo code: BRFRIDAY
11.26 – 11.27
up to 80% off site wide
30% off
ends 11/30
30% off + free shipping
11.27
50% off everything + free shipping
11.25 – 11.30 at noon
10% off all sales
code bf15
11/27 – 11/30
~GAP
Early Access 50% off everything restrictions apply
promo code: EARLY
11.25
50% off everything restrictions apply
promo code: GAPFRIDAY
11.26 – 11.27
40% off full priced styles restirctions apply
promo code: FRIDAYGAP
11.27 – 11.29
50% off in stores and online + Free Shipping with orders $50+
promo code: SHIPGIFTS
11.23 – 11.24
up to 70% off the James Perse Holiday Sale+ free shipping
promo code: HOLIDAYSTYLE15
Surprise Sale! up to 70% off
11.24 – 11.28
50% off sitewide + Free shipping all orders
11.26 6PM ET – 11.27
15% off regular priced items exclusions apply
11.29 – 11.30
~Loft
40% off nearly everything
BF40
11/27 – 11/29
Extra 25% off clearance Designer Handbags, 50% off select Juniors clothing, 60% off select Women’s Coats, 50% off Women’s Sweaters, 70% off Memory Foam Pillow & Toppers
11.25 – 11.28
25% off your entire purchase
promo code: Calmdown
Now- 11.29
~Matches.com (US only)
up to 50% off designer clothing
Take an extra 30% off sale, PLUS 30% off select black styles
11.27 – 11.29
up to 40% off
take 20% off sale items for up to 50% off online
11.25 – 11.27
Take $50 off select regular price purchases of $200+ online
11.27 at 6pm – 11.28
promo code: THANKFUL
~Nike
extra 25% off clearance
promo code: GETOUTTHERE
11/27 – 12/1
up to 50% off select styles for all + free shipping and returns
11.26 – 11.27
50% off everything restrictions apply
11.26 – 11.27
60% off hundreds of styles, 50% off even more, 40% off everything else restrictions apply
11.26 – 11.27
save up to 50% off sitewide
11.27 – 11.30
Up to 60% Off + take an Extra 20% Off Select Already-Reduced Styles online only
promo code: TURKEY20
11.24 – 11.26
25% off all orders + free shipping + up to 70% off selected styles
11.25 – 11.29
30% off sitewide
promo code: SAMSGIVING
up to 20% off in store and online
promo code: SELFCCE
Spend $250+ and save 15%, Spend $500+ and save 20%, spend $1,000+ and save 25% , S’well and Stuart Weitzman style level exclusions
promo code: GOBIG15
11.24 – 11.30
free express shipping on all orders
promo code: BLACKFRIDAY
11.27 – 11.30
50% off ONE item until Noon Friday
40% off ENTIRE purchase until Midnight Friday
Black Friday deals & steals
take off extra 25% almost everything excludes just in, beauty and full price Iris & Ink
promo code: TWENTY15
11.22 – 11.24
extra 25% off
Friday only 11/27
HAPPY SHOPPING! And be sure to stop by on Monday for TSLL Annual Holiday Gift Guide as well as the many Cyber Monday promo codes and sales.
Image: (2)
The post This & That: No. 186 & Black Friday Shopping Deals appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
November 26, 2015
What I Am Thankful For . . .
One of the most astounding and humbling gifts I am reminded of each day here on TSLL is that readers visit from around the globe. With that said, I know not everyone who is reading this post is celebrating Thanksgiving as is officially being done here in the states. However, if the past year of traveling to a handful of destinations around the country with the release of my book made me realize anything, it was that TSLL readers are inspiring, amazing people, and I feel fortunate that you take the time to stop by TSLL as regularly as you do.
TSLL is very much like oxygen to me, as it provides an outlet for exploration, curiosity and amazement of the world to be shared, enjoyed and cultivated. And while there will always be a nay-sayer here and there as I step out on a limb from time to time and stretch our perspectives and understanding, I am overwhelmed by the hundreds of inspiring emails from readers who have found the courage within themselves and the life circumstances they have risen above to create the life of their dreams. More than you know, you inspire me.
Thank you for the time you take to stop by or tune in. The blog, book and podcast would not be what it is without you as I am regularly receiving recommendations from readers about what they are inspired by, curious about and are seeking answers to. Keep the emails coming. I may not respond as timely as I would like, but trust me, I hear you and I read each and every one.
Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to five women in my life who during this past year have provided me with support, love, guidance and acceptance. As a child, many of us grow up assuming our closest friends and confidantes will be of our same age, but for me, each of the women I speak of and am tremendously thankful to have in my life are comprised of all different ages, none of them exactly the same as mine, all of them traveling their own path, but each living a conscious life striving for more love, compassion, strength and settling into the comfort of their own skin. Thank you Nancy, Pat, Marthe, Tiffani and Judy for being you and welcoming me into your lives.
Wishing you a lovely Thanksgiving or thanksgiving wherever you may be on our grand twirling globe. À bientôt.
The post What I Am Thankful For . . . appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.
November 25, 2015
Decor Inspiration: Making the Impossible Possible
Believed to be unsalvageable, this Greenwich 158 year old townhouse was brought back to life and recently earned the cover of Architectural Digest‘s November 2015 issue. A CEO of a publishing company and his husband refused to give up on the potential of the home and refurbished it to its grandeur and beyond. Simply look at the circular staircase and be amazed at the attention to detail and design. Click here to see all of the before and after images. Enjoy the tour!
Images via Architectural Digest
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Word of the Week: No. 27
Click below for pronunciation:
http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/gourmand.m4a
~WORDS of the WEEK from the Archives:
Image: Saveur
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November 24, 2015
Update the Capsule Wardrobe with Designer Staples
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Let the amazing sales of top designer clothing begin! Net-a-Porter’s semi-annual sale just began this morning with clothing, accessories, shoes and bag reduced up to 50% off. The reductions will continue to climb over the next few weeks, but be assured, the stock will be plummeting quickly. Above are a few items I have hand-selected, but click here to shop for exactly what you need to update your capsule wardrobe. Happy shopping!
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Outfit of the Week: Classic Street Style
~Joie Mylon Suede Skirt (reduced 40%)~
~Theory Tania Luxe Top (on sale) or invest in Carolina Herrera’s silk taffeta white shirt~
~Sondra Roberts Nappa leather envelope clutch~
~Charlotte Olympia Oprah leopard-print pump~
~Julie Vos Petite Chloe Pendant~
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
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Style Inspiration: Australian Street Style & More
The beginning of December may be near and the chilly season already upon us here in the Pacific Northwest, but I am drawing inspiration this week from sunny destinations. Much of today’s Style Inspiration comes straight from the streets of Australia, albeit from the fall 2015 season, still abundant with ideas, smiles and signature style. Enjoy!
~STYLE INSPIRATION posts from the Archives:
Images:(0) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)
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November 23, 2015
A Simply Luxurious Thanksgiving
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #71
Many holidays come with excessively high expectations: Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, even Christmas, or should I say especially Christmas, and some people might argue that Thanksgiving should be put on the list, but I dare to disagree. After all, if the turkey doesn’t turn out, there is typically access to alternative sustenance options, and there isn’t a particular weather pattern that comes associated with the season.
Much of the success or disappointment that comes with Thanksgiving rests on our own shoulders as we are not “hoping” for a particular present or behavior from anyone in particular, we aren’t going to be disappointed if a winter wonderland doesn’t materialize and we don’t expect a secret admirer to out-of-the-blue surprise us with their amorous adulations. Gratitude is the focal point, and that is something we each have absolute control over. And even if our list appears short, there can always be something to be appreciative about. After all, we are alive, we can read, we have a meal in front of us, we have the liberty to celebrate with whomever we choose.
Keeping in mind the gift and liberty Thanksgiving gives us to craft our own celebratory and much anticipated occasion, I was inspired by an article in Bon Appétit‘s Thanksgiving issue in which a laundry list of ideas were shared for the “pre-game” to the big meal. And so I decided to share ideas to enjoy the much anticipated day that is coined Thanksgiving from the moment you wake up until the moment you fall asleep exhausted but with a smile upon your face. In other words, ideas to help you create a simply luxurious Thanksgiving. Select and apply as you prefer.
1. Have a simple but balanced breakfast
2. Pack and wear in the morning leisurely, yet stylish pajamas
3. Turn on the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, even if in the background and do not forget to DVR so you can watch it when you have time.
4. Choose simple, yet delicious crackers for the appetizer platters. My preference: Elki Water Crackers.
5. Skip the bread as there will be ample stuffing.
6. Compile a cheese platter. I show you how in detail here.
7. Go outside and take time to go for a long walk/run/[insert favorite aerobic exercise here]
8. Wear a chic casual outfit (no stretchy waistbands).
9. Choose a multi-purpose dip. For vegetables, shrimp, you name it. This recipe is my favorite.
10. Pull out the old-school board games: Scrabble, Apples to Apples, Catch Phrase (app), Taboo, Cranium, Scattegories
11. Do you have a fireplace? Light it! Create a cozy mood.
12. Have water, bubbly and Pinot Noir or Chardonnay handy. If you want a touch of presentation, choose a decanter for the red wine. It eliminates bottles and provides a clean aesthetic.
13. Secure a television for football fans.
14. Plan a short toast that includes a touch of humor, a dose of truth and a reason to cheer. Guidelines for crafting a toast that will set the right tone at the table:
keep it short
leave yourself out of it – be mindful of your audience
don’t embarrass, but do add humor that allows everyone to be in on the joke
if you include a story, keep it short and include no more than two
write it ahead of time and rehearse (sounds unnecessary, but remember, you have an audience)
15. Plan a simple tablescape and have it set before guests begin arriving. Perhaps even the night before. Here are a few ideas of inspiration.
16. Allow the discussion at the table to be something everyone wants to either participate in or listen to. You know your family, forget the rules.
17. Don’t forget the pups! Be sure to give your beloved four-legged family members a special dinner as well or at least a special occasion treat.
18. Take a break before dessert. Depending upon when you eat dinner, go for a walk, help the host clean up the kitchen, put all of the dessert options on display and take time to heat up the water for coffee or tea or maybe even Zinfindal or a sip of brandy/whisky.
19. Allow dessert to be a bit more casual. Perhaps people are mingling in a separate sitting room or small groups are congregating throughout the house. Allow your family and friends to end the evening where they are most comfortable, slowing noshing on something sweet and decadent.
20. Divvy out the left-overs to allow yourself some room in the refrigerator, but be sure to save some cranberries, cream cheese or brie, turkey and artisanal bread for my favorite sandwich the Friday after (see below for the recipe).
Holiday Turkey Sandwich:
—Ingredients:
two slices of crusty artisan bread
2 Tablespoons of cream cheese or brie (brie is my choice!)
2 Tablespoons cranberry sauce (or 4 slices of canned cranberries or a homemade strawberry salsa)
4 slices of turkey
a handful of alfalfa sprouts or cucumber slices (for some crunch)
—Directions:
Spread cream cheese (or brie) on both bread slices.
Place alfalfa sprouts on one slice of bread.
Place cranberry sauce or slices on top of the alfalfa sprouts.
Add the turkey
Complete the sandwich and enjoy!
21. Sit and relax with a hot cup of tea and recount the day with those you love. Much gratitude to be had, no?
Wishing you and those you love a happy, gratitude Thanksgiving no matter where you are celebrating the holiday.
~Music played on today’s episode:
Be Thankful — Natalie Cole
What a Wonderful World —Louis Armstrong
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~Why Not . . . Enjoy Thanksgiving?
~Why Not . . . Create a Memorable Thanksgiving?
Images: (2)
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November 20, 2015
This & That: No. 185
Film
~Man Up
A romantic comedy for the holidays. My attention is captured. Lake Bell and Simon Pegg inadvertently meet up for someone else’s blind date in London (well, it’s his, but not hers) and offer viewers a delightful film reminding us all why being ourselves (maybe not by name in Nancy’s (Bell’s) case) is always a very good idea. Single and 34 and divorced and 40, the two experience an extraordinary first date, then topple the happiness with the truth, then . . . well, you’ll have to go to theaters to find out how it ends. Released in the states last Friday, look for it in your local theaters. I know I will be.
~MacBeth
Marion Cotillard and Michael Fassenbender star as Lady MacBeth and the film’s namesake in the latest adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. Described by critiques as grotesque, but demandingly so, Cotillard is receiving much advance praise. Being released on December 4th, have a look at the trailer below.
Music
~2Cellos
Lately, I have fallen in love with the sound of the cello. Perhaps I have always loved it, but after attending the local symphony and orchestra recently, and then happening to hear the 2Cellos at a local bookstore, I took notice. Whether it’s a classic practice of the cello or a more modern approach as 2Cellos covers more well known rock songs, there is something quite lovely about the sound the cello cultivates. Listen to their version of U2’s “With or Without You”.
Shopping
~3.1 Philip Lim metallic coated jersey pencil skirt
If you’re looking for a touch of holiday sparkle for the season Philip Lim’s metallic pencil skirt may be the perfect touch. Reduced to a lovely price and available in a handful of sizes, if gold was my color of choice, I’d already have it in my shopping cart.
~Kain ‘Alin’ printed crepe dress
When I first saw this dress, I thought it would be perfect for Thanksgiving, but then, I realized, it might just be dangerous. But truly, Kain’s gray crepe dress which falls at and below the knees would be a lovely chic dress paired with stunning heels and a beautiful pendant necklace. And . . . it’s only $115.
Television
~Adele on Saturday Night Live
Whether you regularly watch SNL or not, be sure to set your DVRs this Saturday night as Adele will be the musical guest. With her new album 25 dropping today, to see her perform even two songs live will be a treat. But . . . just in case you miss this performance, NBC has commandeered her as she will be on the “Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon on Nov. 23 and the “Today” show on Nov. 25.
~recipe for Pear Tart with Hazelnut Cream~
Finally the holiday week off has begun, and I am beaming! With plans for seeing friends and family I haven’t seen in many months, I am beyond excited. And especially with weekend plans for wine tasting to pick out a perfect Pinot Noir to pair with the turkey, the week could not kick off in a more festive manner.
This past week has been an emotional one to say the least for a laundry list of reasons, but it is my wish for all of us that we move forward with appreciation and strength and remember what is going well and be sure to celebrate these many things. After all, I am confident that there are more than we realize. Thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog, and I hope you have a most amazing weekend. Below are a few festive and cheerful articles you might enjoy. Until Monday, bon weekend!
~25 Ways to Be Happier . . . because . . .why not?
~Thanksgiving, the Julia Child Way
~Now this is a recipe I want to try. Perhaps this upcoming week? Foolproof Tarte Tatin.
~Worthwhile food for thought . . . 5 Tips for a More Intentional Holiday
~6 Habits All Happy and Healthy Have
~How to Shop at the Grocery Store, Save Money and Eat Healthy
~And, another tip of the hat to Adele, her profile article in The New York Times magazine.
Image: (2)
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November 19, 2015
Decor Inspiration: A Brooklyn Townhouse
The Italianate brownstone in Brooklyn offers just enough of the luxuries without any of the unnecessary decor. From the soaking bathtub that is situated near a fireplace, to two dual rainshower heads as well as a wood burning oven in the kitchen, the space speaks to all of my simple everyday pleasures: home cooking, restorative time to pamper myself and an open living space to enjoy the sanctuary with or without company. Enjoy the tour.
Images via Elizabeth Roberts Architects
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