crazy for navy & fragrant tea
Well it’s been a long long while since any photos of myself actually surfaced on Mode and the Like, so I thought it was time to bring the camera along today when my boyfriend and I visited Leland Tea Co. on Bush and Polk. I’d never been in before but had passed it frequently on buses and decided to finally give the quaint little café a try. Ben and I had small sandwiches and a pot of the Blue Eyes, a blend with hibiscus flowers, rose hips, apple pieces and orange. It was floral and fruity and absolutely delicious. When purchasing some tea of my own however I opted for Jasmine Fancy, since it smelled fresh and divine and green tea is life.
I was very excited to wear my new Surface to Air sandals this afternoon since I got them at Jeremy’s for $50 (a steal considering they were in perfect condition and originally a cool $460). I’ve never been a big fan of navy blue, but after buying this amazing Bar III sweater in Hawaii (the back detail is a unique touch) and then the shoes I’m officially sold. Navy is the new black. I love the contrast with my turquoise-going-on-kelly-green jeans and I’ll definitely be playing around with more fun color combinations in the near future.
wrapped and ready
In response to the chilly winds and heavy fog we’ve been seeing in the city, I’ve fallen in love with Louisa Parris‘ color-blocked scarves. Inspired by the Bay Area and named after SF staples—you’re looking at the Clipper (top) and Noe 
(bottom)—Parris’ scarves consist of bold palettes that would complement neutrals, bright solids, and small-scale patterns. In the midst of all the gloom, you can bundle up and lift your spirits with the pop these beauties impart. The large swath of fabric allows you to get creative and use them as wraps, turbans, or whatever else your heart desires. I dream of matching either style with a black princess coat, dark wash denim, and a pair of suede platform pumps.
(Photos, via Louisa Parris)
vibrant visions
It almost goes without saying that amidst preparing for finals, I’m anxiously awaiting the summer months. I’m ready for lime greens, warm yellows, and pops of orange. I’m ready for barbecues and swimming pools and fiery sunsets and evening drives. I’m ready for denim shorts and sandy flip-flops. I’m ready for a break!
Until that time, however, I’m forced to make do and only dream about warm weather and freedom while I’m stuck inside doing homework. Though bright beach towel hues seem oh so distant, I was recently inspired by a box of pistachio and vanilla-almond macarons that my mom gave to me; in love with their sugary sweetness as much as their colors, I couldn’t resist preserving the moment before I gobbled them all up.
In other color-related news, you may remember my ceramic pumpkin-potted succulent from October which has blossomed beautifully thanks to a sabbatical in Calistoga. When I retrieved the plant from my parents’ house, it was thrilling to see that my little plant (a.k.a. Planty) had grown. I’m so glad that Napa Valley was good to him, and I can’t wait to transfer Planty to a bigger pot as he continues to flourish.
the gift of glamorama
(Top, a ruffled, mustard-colored dress by designer Tracy Reese; bottom, a look at the screen).
There was an explosion of color and energy at San Francisco’s Orpheum Theatre last night, as dance, fashion, art, and music came together for Macy’s annual Glamorama event. Benefiting various HIV/AIDS charities, the show encompassed presentations of various Macy’s label fashions, dance routines directed by choreographer Myron Johnson, and musical performances by well-known pop artists Far East Movement and Bruno Mars. In addition to the entertainment, Kathy Ireland spoke in tribute to the late Elizabeth Taylor and all of her AIDS activism over the years. Naomi and Tarquin Wilding, two of Taylor’s grandchildren, shared a brief sentiment as well.
The womenswear lines covered all the bases with Bohemian separates, sophisticated styles, and luxe gowns, providing casual and evening looks for the eclectic Macy’s woman. Menswear stuck to variations of a sleek, dapper, and urban élan, with a crowd-pleasing finish of undergarments.
For a more detailed, visual, and informative look at the Glamorama fashions and fun, continue on.
august blues
Mourning the end of summer? Revisit the patriotic palette with a slight switch: substitute black for the third hue with red and blue for a more polished presentation.
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