Auld Lang Syne

2013 is at its end. Time to get those New Year's Resolutions in place and start 2014 out with a bang.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

 "I am dreaming of a white Christmas, just like the ones I used to know." -Irving Berlin

Birthdays, Wine & Christmas-- Oh my!

Well people, there is 6 days until Christmas. Yes, if you have not gotten all your holiday shopping done, now is the time to get your butt to the mall.

On top of Christmas, there is exactly 1 day until I turn 29! And exactly 2 days until the 5th Annual Wine Tasting party. My favorite time of year for sure, and now you can see why.

Time to get Cozy.

There is nothing better than getting snuggled up on the couch with some hot chocolate near the Christmas tree, lights twinkling, fireplace ablaze, with loved ones, watching a great holiday classic. Seriously, my favorite thing in the world this time of year. It just warms the heart and soul.

So which holiday classics are my favorite? Well, here are my top 5 holiday movies of all time.

Vintage.

Vintage Gucci. This is a bag that was passed down to me from my mom. I love it not only because it is an amazing bag, but also because it has history and there is nothing better than fashion with history. It is incredible how those classic pieces just get better with age. They become more than just an accessory, they become a series of memories. Nostalgia sets in each time you wear it. Best feeling ever.

Holiday Sweater Love.

'Tis the season of ugly sweater parties! The crazy thing is novelty sweaters are hot in this winter! I am not sure how everyone feels about this particular new trend, but when one of my friends invited us to his annual ugly sweater party, I embraced the trend full force! I even threw in a Santa hat and jingle bell earrings for good measure.

Ultimate Gift Guide for Him.

We are well into the holiday shopping season, so I thought I would put together a little Gift Guide for the Gentlemen in your life. I scoped out Nordstrom again (check out the Ultimate Gift Guide for Her, if you haven't!) to find some amazing gifts for men and put them into two categories: Gifts under $50 & Gifts under $100. Nordstrom offers free shipping and returns, so that should help you save some X-Mas dough. Hope this helps you out during this crazy holiday shopping season!

Gifts under $50 for Him:

Deals of the Week {Holiday Edition}

Happy Friday everyone! Here are some great deals I found this week. There are some awesome gift ideas, as well as some dresses that would be AMAZING for holiday parties! Enjoy!

Ultimate Gift Guide for Her.

What should I get her??? That is the question. 

Well, ladies and gents hopefully my little Gift Guide for Her can help! I have chosen a couple of my favorite gifts from Nordstrom and put them into two categories: Gifts for Her under $50 & Gifts for Her under $100. Nordstrom offers free shipping and returns, which makes for easy shopping. Here goes nothing!

Gifts for Her under $50:

Jennifer's Split Pea & Ham Soup

The temperatures are dropping and there is nothing better than a delicious bowl of soup to keep the cold at bay!

My sister, Jennifer, makes the BEST split pea and ham soup ever. Trust me, this is a recipe you will want to try on a cold winter night. It is healthy, filling and so yummy! I hope you enjoy this fantastic recipe as much as I do!

Without further adooooo..

'Tis the season for....

A new look and shopping!!!!

I have had a new design for Panache Lifestyle in the works and I am so excited to launch it today!!!! I have been working with Melissa from Jelly Design Studio to create a custom clean look that represents Panache Lifestyle. She has done a wonderful job and I am so excited it is up and running! Thank you so much, Melissa!  

Thanksgiving is officially here. Seriously, where does time go? This means that Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday & Cyber Monday are upon us. Here are some incredible deals I found to help you navigate these busy shopping days. Let me tell you, there is nothing I love more than deals & coupon codes!!

Giving Thanks: My Husband.

I still remember the first day I met David. I knew, from that moment on, my life would never be the same. Everyday, with every breathe I take, I think about how lucky I am to have found him. He is my best friend, my soul mate, my rock, my everything. My husband.

Giving Thanks: My Home.

Home can be defined an infinite number of ways. Some people define their home as a structure that provides them with shelter. Some say it is a place, the place you grew up in, the place you choose to live your day to day life, or even the city you live in.

Giving Thanks: Family.

I am blessed with the most wonderful family in the world.

Giving Thanks: My Dogs.

Every morning I wake up to two little faces, licking, pawing, wagging their tails, so eager for me to get up and start the day and I think, "How did I get the two best dogs in the world??"

Giving Thanks: Friends.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner I thought I would give some time to reflect on life and give thanks. In honor of this, I have decided to do a 5 part series of some of the many blessings I have in my life. I have so many, many things to be thankful for, I could write a post everyday for years, literally. So, here is my condensed thanks, in 5 parts. 

Carpe Diem {Outfit Post}

Meet My Shelter Puppies: Rugby & Ryder

Dogs are a huge part of my life. I have always had a dog around me and cannot imagine my life without them. My husband and I knew (even before we were married) we always were going to have a dog (or two) for the rest of our lives. We decided early on, we would always rescue.

According to the US Humane Society, there are 2.7 million healthy, adoptable dogs in the US without homes. Every 11 seconds, one of these dogs is put to sleep in a shelter. This is why David and I have made the decision to always rescue.

Meet Rugby Sutton. We adopted Rugby a little over 7 years ago. He is the most incredible dog. He is kind, compassionate and has more love to give than any other dog I have met. He is our gentle giant.

TBT: Halloween Edition

Happy Halloween!!!! In honor of this glorious holiday, I thought I would take a walk down memory lane. Here are some of my favorite Halloween costumes from past years. Enjoy! 

Orange is the new black. {Outfit Post}

Fall Evenings

There is something about fall evenings in Denver that just make you feel right at home. The brisk air bring backs back that feeling of nostalgia of when you were younger. The feeling of a brand new year of school, Halloween being just around the corner and the feeling of a new start.  This is such a wonderful feeling and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Kiss the Cook, She's Swedish! {Cooking Post}

I absolutely LOVE breakfast for dinner! Swedish Pancakes are definitely my favorite when it comes to breakfast, so I decided to make this delightful treat for my husband, David, last week!

My great-grandmother, Mimi, used to make these for my grandmother, June. My grandma June used to make these for my mom and my aunt Joanie when they were growing up. My mom and my aunt made these for my cousins, brother, sister and me when we were growing up. So this recipe has been passed down generation by generation. When my mom would make these for us, she would have to make several orders because we could eat them as fast as she would cook them. I will someday pass this recipe down to my kids and keep the family tradition going. Enjoy!

Chambray & Burgundy Days. {Outfit Post}

Everyone is lovin' the chambray & burgundy.

Nights in Colorado have definitely cooled. Sleeveless is no longer an option when going out on the town in the evening. While summer wardrobe choices are easier, the cooler weather gives us the opportunity to expand our style expression with hip coats and warmer accessories.  Here I am wearing one of my favorite leather jackets. I LOVE the color burgundy this season and I am especially smitten with burgundy leather. This coat looks great with my chambray, ruched Nicole Miller dress and my canvas & leather Ash heels. It is a look that sleek, stylish and street ready. The finishing touches include my small patent Burberry purse, David Yurman necklace & bracelet and my Michele watch. Who could forget the best accessory of all!?! Mr. Rugby. Rugby couldn't resist jumping in this photo shoot and showing off his best poses. He is definitely the star of this show.

Skulls & Wingtips. {Menswear Outfit Post}

Today I thought I would change it up and take a look at my better half. 

Menswear has gone in a different direction lately. It use to be that the only acceptable look was a generic suit, tie and uncomfortable shoes, but now designers are adding extra pizzazz to these looks. Recently I bought my husband these Cole Haan Great Jones Saddle shoes in a Chestnut Corp Orange. They have an added edge that most wingtip dress shoes lack. He paired these brilliant shoes with this debonair Brooks Brothers shirt, tie and 3 piece suit-- loving the 3 piece suit!!! The orange detail throughout this look adds that extra element of panache. The best part of this look is his dress socks, the jolly roger clad blue socks, add that element of oomph that makes modern menswear so fun. And what men's look would be complete without a watch, David completes his ensemble with his classic Daytona Rolex.

Girls Incorporated of Metro Denver

Last weekend I attended an incredible event, Girls & Guys Night Out, that supports the charity, Girls Incorporated of Metro Denver. This wonderful organization encourages girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold. Empowering girls to dream and fulfill these dreams through higher education, hard work and always believing in themselves. This is a wonderful charity and I feel very fortunate that we have been able to support such an awe-inspiring organization.

Girls and Guys Night Out was held at the Hyatt Regency Tech Center in Denver. There are cocktails, dinner, a raffle and the night is concluded with a comedy show. This year Caroline Rhea (from Sabrina the Teenage Witch, you remember that show from back in the day ;-)) was the comic. It was an enjoyable evening for a tremendous cause.

B & W {Outift Post}

Hello all! Well it is Thursday, almost time for the weekend! I know I am looking forward to a nice fall weekend filled with college football on Saturday and the Broncos (PFM) on Sunday, and enjoying those cooler temperatures with friends. Warm enough to still be able to be outside and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, but cool enough that you aren't dying from heat. Fall is definitely my favorite time of the year.

I am loving the black and white trend. It's sleek, sharp and looks good on everyone. I wore this AMAZING black and white dress to our friend's wedding in Aspen and felt it fit the mountain chic dress code at the Roaring Fork Club. This fitted dress also incorporated the color blocking trend, which added a fabulous edge to the look. My patent pumps from Nine West also added a geometric element which made the look.The finishing touches included my new Michael Kors ruched nickel clutch, my David Yurman cable Onyx bracelet and my Tom Ford sunnies. It was the perfect attire for an incredible evening of dancing, toasts and great friends!

Royal. {Outfit Post}

Last weekend we attended a stunning wedding in Aspen. This incredible weekend started out with a s'mores and cocktail party at the Limelight Hotel downtown Aspen. These photos were actually taken on the patio of the Limelight Hotel right before a blizzard hit. Luckily, the evening did not involve going outside, so I didn't have to go buy a new outfit for the occasion.

For the kickoff party I wore this amazing fit & flare, royal blue dress from Banana Republic. My favorite part of this dress is the leather trim detail around the neck and shoulders. I accessorized my dress with this fun statement necklace from Francesca's, my David Yurman bracelet  and beautiful earrings made by Kathryn Giarratano, who is a fabulous jewelry designer and a good friend of mine. I absolutely love them. The finishing touches included my favorite lip gloss from NARS and the new fall nail polish color, "for the twill of it", from Essie.

Power of Pink

October is officially here, meaning it is time to show your support for Breasts...... Cancer Awareness. Many designers and beauty brands come together to support this cause by creating limited edition products, contributing a portion of their proceeds to various breast cancer charities and organizations. Breast cancer affects everyone, moms, dads, sisters, brothers, friends and family. We all need to do our part in the fight against breast cancer.

Fit & Flare.

The fit and flare leather skirt is absolutely my new favorite addition to my closet. It is both flattering and flirty, making it a fun piece to wear out on the town. Here, I have it paired with this sheer mustard Banana Republic top with a ruffle detail. To complete the look I am wearing my classic patent pumps and my Chanel Pearl sunnies. My white leather ruched Michael Kors clutch is the perfect topper to this chic ensemble. Oh and of course, who could forget the red lipstick, the perfect finishing touch.

Emmys- Best & Worst Dressed

Let's just say the only thing the Emmys had to offer last weekend was the fashion. The show definitely gave off a solemn vibe and definitely did not live up to previous years' Emmys. Thank goodness there is always fashion at these awards shows! So without further ado, here are my top 5 favorite and my not-so-favorite red carpet looks.

Let's start with the bad news...

Julianne Hough in Jenny Packham

Pop of Tangerine {Outfit Post}

I am seriously loving the leather trend right now. The combination of black, white and leather has topped my list of my favorite fall 2013 trends. Here I combine my fit & flare leather skirt with a classic, sheer black & white shirt. This structured top combines the color-block trend & the luxe sheer look, which are both far from new, but are still very much making a splash in the fashion world. I completed this look by adding a "pop" of tangerine!  The Michael Kors tangerine bag gives the outfit a chic zest. 

A Call to Action: Help Colorado Flood Victims

As many of you may have heard, over the past week Colorado was flooded with an unprecedented amount of rain, forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. As of last night, there are still around 648 unaccounted for and 8 people who have lost their lives.

The numbers of homes that were damaged or totally destroyed are staggering. According to the Denver Post, in the Front Range alone, over 17,994 damaged and 1,502 destroyed. In Boulder County, 111 damaged and 119 destroyed. Weld County, around 2,900 damaged, the numbers are still not in for the homes destroyed. In Larimer County, around 4,500 damaged and 1,500 destroyed. 

The scariest thing about these numbers is there are many more counties that are still working to assess the damage as the people who live there are still stranded. These numbers also do not include all the damage to the infrastructure of these counties, the businesses destroyed and the agricultural properties affected. It is truly heartbreaking.

The Women of Suits

With the summer finale of my favorite show, Suits, airing tonight, I thought what a perfect time to look at the women of Suits and their incredible style. These ladies make office attire look good. Jessica, Rachel and Donna's looks are both crisp and chic. Perfect for a day in the office followed by a post-work cocktail.

Suits offers style, intellect and humor. I highly recommend you check out this noteworthy show on USA.

Brew at the Zoo {Event/ Charity Post}

Over the weekend we attended a fun event that combines two of my favorite things, beer & animals. I am sure you are thinking, what does drinking beer at the zoo have to do with charity???!! Well, let me tell you.

The Denver Zoo's Brew at the Zoo benefits the Denver Zoo's Red Apple Fund for Lifelong Learning. This program allows all individuals, regardless of your economic situation, to learn about conservation and all the wonders of animals through educational activities hosted by the Denver Zoo.

The event offers samples from over 40 of the region's best breweries, along with complimentary food from some of Denver's best restaurants. This is an incredible event to attend and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves beer, food and animals!

Tasty Thursday! {Cooking Post}

Pizza. Who doesn't love pizza?! Here is an amazing homemade pizza recipe that my husband and I absolutely heart. It takes an ordinary pizza and gives it a buttery, flaky goodness. Health conscious, this is not, deliciousness sometimes comes at a cost, but totally worth it in this case. Enjoy!

Ruffles! {Outfit Post}

It was another beautiful weekend in Denver! I am so enjoying these, as I know our nice warm summer days are very limited. (Nooooo!!!!) On Friday evening we ventured out to this taco bar that has an amazing patio. Gotta enjoy those patio dinners while we can!

For my evening out, I wore my beige Leifsdottir blouse. I love this top for it's fun ruffled sleeves and exquisite silk detail around the neck.   I paired this with a great black skirt I picked up at Banana Republic for a remarkable discount!! (BARGAIN ALERT--end of summer sales are the best!!) This skirt is fantastic, not only because it has pockets, but also it's a lightweight material that is absolutely perfect for a hot night out. I completed the outfit with my Michele watch, oversized Tom Ford sunglasses and my Charles by Charles David wedges. 

PFM Day! {Outfit Post- Tailgate Edition}

Happy PFM Day! aka Go Broncos!!! Today is the official start of the 2013-14 NFL season. Last week I attended a preseason game at Mile High and learned how the new "purse rule" works. I had my whole outfit planned and at the last minute had to find a purse that would be "allowed in". This rule is frustrating for a multitude of reasons, but there is an upside, it gives you a reason to buy a new cute clutch, wristlet or crossbody bag!

Here are the new NFL purse regulation rules:

• Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium with one of the clear plastic bags. No larger than 4.5"x 6.5"
• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”(Tory Burch made a cute line of clear bags this summer, unfortunately, they are hard to find now. I would recommend looking at Nordstrom Rack or other discount retailers.)
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)--- what girl wants to carry around a freezer bag????

My original outfit included my Michael Kors crossbody bag, which was larger than my hand. Great for tailgating, not so great for getting into the stadium.

Top: Old Navy | Shorts: French Connection | Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider | Watch Michael Kors (previous post) | Necklace: Kenneth Jay Lane | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban (previous post) | Crossbody Bag: Michael Kors (similar here)

Hellooooo September!

Top: lululemon (similar here)| Shorts: lululemon (similar here) | Sunglasses: Tom Ford

Last Days of August...

The final days of August are upon us, "sigh", as we say goodbye to summer and get ready for autumn. To close out the month, I plan on doing as many outdoor activities this weekend as possible. This includes sitting by a pool and catching up on some serious reading (notice the lovely stack of September issues, very intense ;-)). There will also be some college football involved (Go Buffs!!), as well as my first attempt at hiking two 14ners in one day. All in all, I would say I have a nice little Labor day weekend planned.

Patchwork Denim {Fall Fashion 2013}

With September just around the corner, I find myself mentally preparing for the end of summer. I am not quite sure I am ready to put away my sandals and trade them in for boots. At least there is a silver lining, fall fashion.

One of my latest lusts for fall,  patchwork denim. LOVE this trend. Here are a few pieces I have been eying...

Jeans: Hudson Newton Patchwork Super Skinny Jeans

What's my name????

This past weekend we attended the one and only Dave Mattews Band concert with Snoop Dogg, er wait, I mean Snoop Lion, as the opener. It was awesome. While there was no twerking, (ahem, Miley Cyrus at the VMAs) it was quite the evening. Snoop Lion and DMB still put on an epic performance.

For my Friday night out, I chose to wear these cute skinny jeans from Neuw Denim (some of my favorite jeans!) with this fun coral palm print top.  (BARGAIN ALERT) I found this MOD.lusive top at Nordstrom's on sale this past week. I accessorized with my Jelly Bean Michele watch, a David Yurman cable bracelet and the always classic Ray-Ban Aviators.  I then topped off my look with simple patent leather pumps from Vince Camuto. 

Top: MOD.Lusive at Norstroms | Jeans: Neuw | Shoes: Vince Camuto | Bracelet: David Yurman | Watch: Michele | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Thursday Wedding Anniversary Toast {Wedding Post}

I cannot believe how quickly time goes! Today I would like to make a toast to my best friend, my husband, David. We tied the knot 4 years ago today. Yesterday I spent some time looking at photos from that day and reminiscing. I know I am biased, but it was absolutely perfect. Being surrounded by family and friends and celebrating the beginning of our new life together, well there is nothing quite like it. 

Into the Wild {Fitness Post}

Over the weekend I channeled my inner "mountain girl" and roughed it for two nights in the great Colorado wilderness outside of Granby, CO. After setting up camp and establishing shelter and fire, (think Naked and Afraid, Discovery Channel.... just kidding, I am not that intense) we did some daytime hiking. These hikes were absolutely beautiful, challenging, and a great way to burn a few extra calories. Hiking is a great way to stay fit in the summertime. 

Pink, Black & Lace {Outfit Post}

Happy Thursday!!

Lace has become one of my obsessions this summer. Here I have paired this adorable bright pink peplum top with these chic lace shorts with a scallop detail. (Bargain Alert: Both items currently on sale in stores!!!!)  I added in a black layered necklace (a fabulous find I stumbled upon while on vacation in Punta Mita, Mexico) and my Charles by Charles David black patent wedges. I am also wearing my favorite men's style chronograph watch from Michael Kors.

Top: Express | Shorts: Express | Watch: Michael Kors | Rings: Wedding Rings | Shoes: Charles by Charles David

Fun with Florals {Outfit Post}

One of my favorite trends this summer was all the fun floral prints. Nothing says summer like a bright floral pattern on a beautiful sunny day. I love this dress from BCBG, not only because it's a cheerful floral print, but the fact it is the perfect dress for a casual summer evening. This light cotton dress features flirty, ruffle sleeves and even has pockets (such a plus!!). I paired this dress with a great pair of wedges from Charles by Charles David. The bold pattern and patent leather adds a unique touch (not to mention they are super comfortable--a must when heading out for the evening). These shoes are currently on sale, which makes them a great end of the summer buy.

SaddleUp! and Pack your Bags

Happy Birthday, David!

Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband! Every morning I wake up and think about how truly lucky I am to have a best friend like him. To celebrate this monumental birthday, we have planned a camping trip to Grand Lake next weekend. Stay tuned for posts from our epic weekend in the Colorado wilderness!

Love you, David! 

A New Beginning

Welcome to Panache Lifestyle! August is upon us and while it marks the sad, quiet end of summer for most, for me it is the grand finale. Days are still hot, but the nights are cool and welcoming. It is the perfect time to take trips, have backyard BBQs and just enjoy life. My August is shaping up to be spectacular, with many wonderful celebrations, events and adventures. I can promise you that I will post all the great stuff as it comes along.

But first...

As this is my first blog post, I thought I would tell you a little bit about this place. Panache Lifestyle is a place, here online, as well as a state of mind. Here we can find and express our individuality and flair. And when not in front of the computer, living the Panache Lifestyle is the attitude that brings passion to the everyday things we do. I am excited to be here and hope you are too!

What are your plans this August? What is your favorite part of summer?