Hush n Wonder

Key Fobs

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 13:45:00 +0000

It's the little details that set true fashionistas apart from the regular girls. One of my favorite ways to add some glamour to your everyday routine is with some pretty little key fobs. When I got my little Jetta back in high school (who has fondly been dubbed "Noirtier") my parents got me the prettiest little Tiffany's key chain. I haven't thought much of keychains since, but when Emily shared her absurdly cool keychain in this post I've decided it's time to invest in a new one for myself. So far, those delicate little butterflies are on the top of my list.

1 2 3 4 5

Slipped Into Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:55:00 +0000

Summer has to be the sweetest of seasons. It's so easy. It requires little thought, and is best spent when one simply lets it happen. I like my summer clothes to be the exact same way. The Tibi dress below can go from elegant to casual in the blink of an eye (or a change of jewelry) and that heavenly blue color reminds me of the sea. It speaks volumes on it's own and requires little else. I'm imagining it with a neon pink lip and lots of bangles.

Tibi, Hanna Strapless Maxi. Get it here.

Am I Cool Enough For These?

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 23 May 2012 13:46:00 +0000

Don't care, I'll be buying regardless ;)

In the fashion world, there is always some new must-see jewelry line that has everyone all abuzz. I normally don't take much notice, but this new line called Mr. Kate is so exceptional, I *know* I will be picking up a couple pieces. The Mr. Kate website is a fun, interactive blog - covering everything from interior design to some scrumptious looking recipes and is the brain child of actress Kate Albrecht. But what really has me hooked is the jewelry. It's affordable and truly unique and I don't think I can go another week without owning an ear cuff. And maybe some necklaces and bracelets, because they just look soooo good stacked and layered.

Bow Ear Cuff

Bark Ear Cuff

All Images Via Mr. Kate.

Pretty Little Underthings

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Currently, on the very top of my "wanted" list are some pretty lace bras. Pretty enough that you want them in neon colors, so that they are really noticed when the peek out from under white camis and soft sweaters. Below are the options I'm loving most. Are you going to let your bra show this summer?

Get it from Maison Scotch

Get it from J. Crew.

Get it from Charlie and Lee.

Get it from Deborah Marquit

And I'd wear them like this...

1, 2, 3

Vogue Welcomes Summer!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 16 May 2012 14:47:00 +0000

It's beginning to feel a lot like summer! These amazing June Vogue covers encompass all the things we love most about the warmer months - bright colors, bikinis, and sparkly little dresses. I'm headed off to the lake for a long weekend, here's hoping your'e able to celebrate the unofficial start of summer in a fun way as well!

Muy, Muy Bonita

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:22:00 +0000

Since my trip to Mexico last month, I've been thinking about the amazing culture that can only be found south of the border. I want to go back. And eat enchiladas and drink horchata, and chat in my broken Spanish with the locals while bartering for silver bangles and turquoise earrings. And while I'm doing all that I want to be wearing these stunning Mara Hoffman shorts. Ugh, I'm so in love.

If you get the urge, you may buy them for me here :)

All We Really Want Is Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 15 May 2012 04:42:00 +0000

I was feeling a bit uninspired this evening. Then I found these photos packed with deliciousness. And I decided to change the lyrics to the Beastie Boys song "Girls" to "Boys" and started singing it as I looked through these shots. I really appreciate good boy-style, and these are exemplary images of just that.

A Little Slim Aarons for Your Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:46:00 +0000

I photograph attractive people, doing attractive things, in attractive places...Slim Aarons
Pristine pools, exquisite mansions, and over-the-top seaside villas are the settings in which Slim Aarons photographs take place. Socialites, celebrities, and jet-setters are the subject matter. And drinking champagne, wearing big jewels, and simply lounging about are the activities depicted. It's over the top luxury, a look into how the wealthy lived in decades past, and I'm completely mesmerized by it. Mr. Aarons has always been one of my favorite photographers, and I love his ability to capture a moment. It's story telling at it's best and makes me incredibly excited for summer. Bring on the days where the only thing to do is lay in the sun, sip bubbly, and peruse magazines.

Parrots and Jelly Shoes

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:08:00 +0000

As a child of the 80's I grew up in jelly shoes, bright florals, and anything hot pink or neon yellow. When I stumbled upon Juicy Couture's Spring and Summer line, I swore I had owned half the stuff as a 6 year old. And that's not a knock! It's bright and tropical and youthful and slightly retro, and I'd love to wear all of it, even at 26. Something about this line has me thinking that reminiscing of summers past (and outfits!) was the goal of this collection. There are jelly sandals, hair ties with charms, and adorable parrots throughout and it makes me deliriously happy. These are the kind of clothes I want to be wearing all summer.

- All images via Juicy Couture -

She got a Passion for Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 08 May 2012 13:12:00 +0000

The other day I was asked a question that threw me for a bit of a loop - "What's with you and fashion?" The person asking (obvi straight, male) didn't understand how I could be so interested - interested enough that I took time to write mini -papers (aka blog articles) on the subject without so much as any monetary compensation. I was dumbfounded. How can he not get it? Since that question I've mulled over the things that I love most about clothes, shopping and the industry as a whole. The more I think about it the deeper I fall in love. It's a million little things - little things that spark something inside me - and the only way I know how to show my appreciation is by writing this blog. Below, I've tried to put into words why myself, and millions of others, are so keen on fashion.

It's that feeling when you walk out of your favorite department store, with a new parcel tucked under your arm, knowing you bought something you truly love. Love so much, you hope to give it to your future daughter someday.
It's trying on a dress the looks like nothing on a hanger, and being mesmerized with the draping, the cinching, the texture, the fabric once it's on your body.
It's curling up with the latest issue of Vogue and a glass of wine of getting lost in the parties, the trends, and the lifestyles of those who understand what it is I'm talking about ;)
It's visiting a flee market and digging around for hours until you find that item that speaks to you. It might be an old necklace that's showing it's age - but beautifully so. Who wore it? Where has it been? How old is it? It's amazing to me that fashion can cross generation gaps the way it does.
It's watching a runway show and being amazed at how it can completely encapsulate a feeling or mood using colors, fabrics, different shapes. It truly is art.
It's the way your favorite pair of shoes never get put away in your closet, because they're just too pretty to not look at on a daily basis.
It's going out for a night on the town and feeling good (I mean, really good) because that new dress you bought is hugging you in all the right places.
It's the way that your clothes can communicate who you are to someone you have yet to meet.
It's looking back at photos of Brigitte Bardot and Jean Shrimpton and seeing the way their style is replicated today.
It's that moment, when you're in Saks, and your eyes fall on the perfect Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress, or an immaculate, white Chloe blouse and it's true love. In the pit of your stomach, you can feel it. And that, I can't really explain.

Image via Google

The Prettiest Dresses of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 08 May 2012 02:34:00 +0000

Chanel Iman and Tom Ford

If there is one formal event I could go to, it'd be the Met Gala. Starlets show up in the absolute prettiest dresses and this year is no exception. As I sit on my couch, perusing Vogue.com, I'm blown away by the dresses stars have chosen this year. They're so artful and unique and, I'm just drooling.

Nina Dobrev in Donna Karan

Leslie Mann in Naeem Khan

Diane Kruger in Prada

Caroline Trentini in Olivier Theyskens

Guilty Pleasures

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:28:00 +0000

Below are some of my favorite indulgences. Whether it's a sweet treat or sinfully soft cashmere scarf, it's good to pamper yourself every once in a while. What are your favorite guilty pleasures?

Macarons are today's "it" sweet (like cupcakes were a few years back). And I must admit, I understand the appeal. So pretty, so delicious, and if you've ever been to Laduree, you know exactly what I'm talking about.

Pretty little undergarnments are my favorite splurge. This set from Elle MacPherson intimates are equal parts sweet and sexy and I've been eyeing them for a while.

It's finally farmer's market time here in Iowa! And I couldn't be more excited because this means bouquets of fresh flowers. Nothing spruces up a room like a little arrangment of sweet-smelling flowers.

One thing I love to inulge in are pretty scarves. I'm willing to dish out a little extra dough for amazing fabrics. Lately I've been eyeing the White + Warren cahsmere travel scarves. Classically elegant.

Jo Malone products are wonderfully frangrant. I love their body cream and wear it instead of perfume. Also, putting it on before bed leaves your sheets smelling amazing.

Cinco de Derby

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Fri, 04 May 2012 14:05:00 +0000

=
One heck of a weekend

Enjoy, lovies!

Flutter-kini

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:25:00 +0000

Summer is rapidly approaching. My first lake trip is about two weeks away (!), which means I'm all about stocking up on summer wardrobe essentials. One thing I'm dying to find is a fluttery little bikini like the ones posted below. I think they're so pretty and add a little extra volume where girls like me (ahem, flat-chested girls that is) need it most. They're also a nice alternative to the oh-so popular fringed bikini tops we are seeing all over the place.

Image 1, Image 2

Whiter Than White

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 02 May 2012 13:31:00 +0000

This time of year, the fresher the look the better. And let's be honest - there aren't many things more crisp than white. In my opinion, nothing looks more chic than this pearly-hue and I noticed yesterday that I had pinned many all white looks. From outfits to home decor, I'm definitely feeling the all white as of late.

All images via my Pinterest.

Since Soft is Good

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:30:00 +0000

I'm not much into brand loyalty - especially when it comes to clothes. I buy what speaks to me - a good fit, great color, and pure need of an item are generally what sparks my shopping trips. However, there is one brand that I am drawn to time and time again and that is Soft Joie. Their pieces are insanely comfy (as the name suggests) and always have a great fit, so even though you feel like you're in sweats, you look chic and put together. For my trip to Mexico I was on the hunt for comfy summer dresses. Their Bond dress (see it below) was exactly what I was looking for. It was light and comfy, but had enough structure that it was perfect for a night of clubbing, dressed up with a colorful, beaded necklace. Below are some other favorites I would love getting my hands on.

Ulani top and Bond dress

Aven top and Nia top

Wilcox B dress and Gwendolyn pants

Shop all these looks here.

A Pre Summer Playlist

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:34:00 +0000

Making a new playlist or CD has got to be my favorite way to welcome a new season. I've been doing this since I was a freshman in high school, and it's amazing how listening to "Summer 2002" can bring back memories that have been buried deep in the recesses of my mind for who knows how long. I compiled this little playlist on Spotify and had it on loop yesterday. It's the sort of stuff that is easy to get lost in and is perfect for daydreaming. Or lazy car rides to the lake. Or sitting outside sipping sangria. Enjoy.

Local Natives - "Wide Eyes"
Ryan Bingham - "The Poet"
Simian Mobile Disco - "Cruel Intentions"
The Black Keys - "Howlin' For You"
Cut Copy - "Need You Now"
Polica - "Amongster"
Gardens & Villa - "Thorn Castles"
Lana del Rey - "Diet Mountain Dew"
The Ruby Suns - "There Are Birds"
James Vincent McMorrow - "Higher Love"
Fun - "Some Nights"
The Tallest Man on Earth - "Pistol Dreams"
Alabama Shakes - "Rise to the Sun"
The Big Pink - "Velvet"
Jack White - "Wayfaring Stranger"
Moon Taxi - "Let's Go Back"
French Kicks - "Abandon"
Animal Kingdom - "Strange Attractor"
Iron & Wine - "Boy with a Coin"
The Jezabels - "Endless Summer"

Brutally Handsome/Terminally Pretty

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:10:00 +0000

For your viewing pleasure - because let's be honest - there's no accessory as wonderful as a good-looking man. ;)

Kate & Jared

Georgia & Jeremy

Daria & Pierce

Gemma & George

Natalia & Sam

Behati & Jamie

And Caroline Wore White

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:39:00 +0000

I've been trying pretty hard to not let my upcoming wedding consume my every thought (being that it's not till July 2013, that could get exhausting). But when I see editorials like this? I can't wait to dive head-first into dress shopping, flower arrangements and all the other fun details that come with wedding days. Brazilian model Caroline Trentini's big day was featured in US Vogue, and I'm completely in love with her decliate yet modern dress. Intricate sleeves, a simple skirt, and sweetheart neckline make for a dress like none I've ever seen. I also adore all the white flowers and hints of blue in the decor (see 4th photo down). That messy little up-do is perfection - perhaps only the kind of perfection a model could pull off, but I love it regardless. There is definitely quite a bit of inspiration to be gathered from these shots.

Images via Vogue

Pretty, Skinny, Gold

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:07:00 +0000

There's something in the way a delicate gold chain can fall just so around a girls' clavicle. In my opinion, it's one of the *sexiest* and most innocent ways to draw attention to decolletage without being risque. I recently purchased a 24" inch gold chain with a simple initial engraved disc charm. It's quickly become my go-to jewelry item, my favorite part definitely being the chain. It's so fine that in certain lights it's hard to tell if there's a chain at all or just a little glitter that found it's way to my chest. This is a jewelry item that every girl should own (right up there with a good watch). Below are some options if you're looking to invest.

{From left to right}
Ginnette_NY Mini Lace Monogram Necklace in Rose GoldJennifer Meyer 18 k Gold & Diamond Hamsa PendantJ Crew Lion Head Locket NecklaceMallarino 24 k Gold Vermeil Ball & Tassle NecklaceTopshop XL Heart Necklace

Blushing Over It

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:47:00 +0000

There are few things prettier than a rosy cheek. And although it is *always* apart of my daily makeup routine, it's probably the makeup item I put the least amount of thought into. Which is pretty silly because the color, amount, and location in which rogue is applied can completely transform a face (as the pictures above demonstrate). My current blush (Lorac, Exposed) is running low, and I'm beyond eager to try something new. After reading different beauty articles, I've decided that I want my next blush to be a simple matte, that provides a healthy glow. This will be an interesting change for me being that almost all of my blushes in the past have had shimmery gold undertones.

1. Estee Lauder Tender Blush Sheer Stick - I love this stuff - it provides a healthy glow, and is what I wear when I'm wanting to add a bit of a tan look without piling on the bronzer. Gold undertones make is night time appropriate. Only complaint is that it rubs off pretty easily.

2. Lorac Baked Matte Satin Blush - I purchased this blush because I was wanting Nars Orgasm (see below) and my local beauty retailer was out. So I gave this a try. I find that it's a little brighter than Nars' famous "Orgasm", thus making it more daytime appropriate.

3. Nars Blush in Orgasm - This cult favorite has become world-known for a reason - it flatters every skin type and almost has a bronze like effect, making one look like they spent a day at the beach. It is so pretty - only complaint is if one is too tan, it doesn't have the same dazzling effect, and it's hard to tell you're wearing it.

4. Urban Decay Afterglow Cheek Tint in Crush - I received a free sample of this and was taken aback by how bright it was. But when I tried it on, I adored how it made me look like I was blushing. It's youthful and fun, and I love that it's not ultra natural - you can tell you're wearing a fun colored blush without looking like a clown.

5. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush - I have read too many amazing reviews on this stuff not to try it. The one thing I've heard time after time about this product is that it's so natural and actually improves skin's balance, which is why it wears for so long.

6. Benefit Dandelion Blush - This blush has one so many beauty awards and is supposedly key in making one look fresh faced and well rested. I was wary to try this at first - thinking it'd be too light for my medium skin tone, but was pleasantly surprised to find that it still provided that healthy glow.

Happy blushing!

Back to Life, Back to Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:47:00 +0000

Well, my vacation hangover is in full effect. I'm missing days filled with beach walks, roaming markets, and swimming. But I'm loving sleeping in my own bed, not drinking all day ;), and eating normal food (hello, salads!). Below are some pictures of my trip. It really was the most relaxing, laid back week and my mind is slowly returning to reality.

View from our room.

Holding the nicest baby lion ever.

Bars on the beach.

The infinity pool that we spent quite a bit of time at.

Dior Key Lock Sandals (from last year), BCBG Maxi Skirt.

The beach in Isla Mujeres.

Knock off Ray Bans.

Nothing like authentic Mexican food.

A wonderfully beach ready bag - find it here.

Vogue Mexico and Vogue Belleza were perfect "reads" while on the beach.

Scent of the Trip - Bobbi Brown Beach, lotion and body oil.

The yummiest shrimp cocktail ever.

Coronas at an amazing hole in the wall bar in Isla Mujeres.

...Quite Excited...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:51:00 +0000

Today I'm so excited to be guest blogging over at one of my favorite sites The Beauty File. Please head over and check out my post on essentials for a day at the beach. Inspiration was easily found for this post due to the fact that by the time you're reading this I'll be in sunny Mexico! Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Pretty Cool For An Advertisement

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:57:00 +0000

A Bit About Moi

noreply@blogger.com (Brittney) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:32:00 +0000

Last week Victoria Rose from Chateau de Victoria tagged me in one of those fun posts where you pretty much just tell people about yourself, then ask some fun questions to your fellow blogging friends. Well, since I'm a little late to the game, I figured I'd just share some fun facts about me. This is something I've enjoyed doing for years - in grade school my friends and I would just make lists of what our "favorites" were. When MySpace was big, I was always that girl filling out those silly surveys... So in all honesty this really excites me. So without further ado, a bit about myself.

My favorite movie is The Graduate. However, I find it very hard to pick just one.
Reading should always include a cup of coffee or tea and a warm blanket.
My favorite city ever is London - I lived there for a summer and fell in love. I believe it's the only big city I could live in and be truly happy.
I get strangely emotional over good music, good art, and memories.
My earliest memory is from when I was 2 1/2. My Grammy Berget was staying with me and I was eating mashed potatoes.
I am very proud of the fact that I'm almost 100% Norwegian (but I'm also Irish, English, and Swiss.)
I'm addicted to swimming and the ocean. In a previous life I might have been a mermaid.
Stores like Saks and Harrods make me so, so, so happy. Euphoric even. There is nothing like a good day of shopping.
To say I love animals would be a huge understatement. If I could, I'd own a zoo (but then again maybe I wouldn't, because, well I don't think animals should be stuck in zoos.) So I'd own a wildlife preserve!
I found my dream house and am *this* close to knocking the person's door and saying, "hey, if ya ever want to sell...." It's brick and has the most amazing, knarly, tree in the front yard.
To be cozy is to be happy.
Adventures, travel, and exploring are all things I want to always be apart of my life.