Year: 2011

beautifully simple interior decor

Published by

First weekend of Fall and we, meaning San Francisco, experienced our first rain-ish  of weather the season. You know what? I didn’t mind it a bit, because it gave me the chance to stay indoors and clean up and believe it or not get inspired about my writings. This time of year I tend to shift my attention to warm and cozy indoor places and daydream about Parisian lifestyles. So, of course, it’s no wonder I cam across some visuals here, which remind me of just that.

boutique hotel pick – palace hotel – san francisco, california

Published by

I have, for a while now and on occasion,  dedicated an entire blog entry to some of my favorite boutique and luxury hotels in Europe. But this past week, since the weather has been the most ideal in San Francisco, I almost felt like a tourist visiting because the entire city had a beautiful glow to it. Anyway, every day as I walk to work, I pass by the Palace Hotel and while in front, I slow my pace in order to get a glimpse of the tourists lined up at curbside waiting for their limousines to whisk them away, whether it be to the airport or a private tour of some sort. It dawned on me that I needed to include this amazingly, beautiful hotel as one of my favorites in the city by the bay. Have an amazing weekend everyone! {For photos reference of Palace Hotel, please click here}

fall fashion 2011: mix and match

Published by

Option 1: Bally leather pencil skirt 1495; Diane Von Furstenberg turtleneck 245; Miu Miu Sable crepe skirt 745; Givenchy wool and felt leather sandal 695; Mulberry happy hedgerow scarf 450; Gucci ostrich leather peep toe pumps 895 Option 2: Jason Wu lace appliqued silk radsmir dress 4495; DVF Mikhaila wool blend coat 745; Antonio Berardi zip detailed wool crepe dress 1650; Gucci pebbled rubber patent pumps 485; Giuseppe Zanotti snakeskin peep toe 750; Pierre Hardy patent leather pumps 595 Option 3: Victoria Beckham 100silk wool blend double crepe dress 2240; Valentino Belted wool and silk blend coat 3950; Zac Posen full skirt stretch wool blend dress 1850; Jimmy Choo estoria patent leather cage sandals 895; Maison martin margiela leather clutch 875; Jimmy Choo Mess ankle boot 975 {click here for product details or information}

decor: san francisco doors and doorways

Published by

Just as much as I admire interior design and decor, I appreciate exteriors, landscapes and doorways, especially unique ones and those which incorporate glass in the design. On Sunday, FINALLY and I mean finally, but also temporarily, we had some nice weather around the city and I decided to venture out to my favorite neighborhood and take photos of “some” of my most appreciated doorways. I edited the addresses from the photos just to respect the privacy of the homeowners. Enjoy {photos are the property of rawsilkandsaffron.wordpress.com}

carolina herrera: fall 2011 fashion for the woman over 40

Published by

When I embarked on  my research to write this article, I decided I would pick 3 outfits from each of my favorite designers and share with you their Fall 2011 fashion suggestions.  But when I flipped through the photographs here, I realized that Caroline Herrera has once again outdone herself, at least for the women over 40 and decided to dedicate this entry just to her. Check out some of my favorites below and by the way have an amazing weekend!!!

fall fashion 2011: black ankle boots

Published by

Since finding a nice pair of full length, wide calf boots is really challenging, I have, over the years, grown to appreciate ankle boots even more.  Sure, I walk past the full length boots and feel envious of those who can quickly zip them up, even while stuffing a pair of skinny jeans into them, I  soon forget my woes, when I see that perfect pair of ankle boots to call my very own. The best part is, this year, ankle boots are in and highly suggested to pair with almost any outfit.  Finally!!!  Anyway, check out some of my favorites from here and tell me what you think? 1. Red Valentino bow embellished sued ankle boots $495 2. Jimmy Choo Alanis leather ankel boots $975 3. Chloe Tucson metal cuffed leather ankle boots $850 4. Givenchy Patent leather cage ankel boots $1550 5. Christian Louboutin belle 100 glossed python ankle boot $1695 6. Michael Kohrs suede and patent leather ankle boots $295

healthy cooking: artichoke ravioli

Published by

Recipe and photos by For the Love of Cooking.net  I found this recipe when I was searching for a pasta dish which, of course, had to be healthier than the norm.  When I read the ingredients I knew I had to try it. Sure enough it was delicious, especially with piled shredded parmesan cheese. Artichoke Ravioli with Spinach, Tomatoes, Mushrooms, and Squash: Artichoke ravioli (or flavor of your choice), cooked per instructions 2 tsp olive oil 1/4 red onion, cut into large pieces 1 cup of mushrooms, quartered 1/2 zucchini, diced 1/2 yellow squash, diced 1/2 cup of grape tomatoes 1 clove of garlic, minced 1 cup of baby spinach Basil olive oil Asiago cheese, shredded Fresh basil leaves Cook the ravioli per instructions (while the vegetables are cooking). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes or until softened. Add the zucchini, squash, and grape tomatoes then cook for 2-3 minutes before adding the spinach and minced garlic. Cook for an …

fall fashion: orange crush

Published by

Orange is an amazing Fall color but it is a hue that is sometimes challenging to pull off, especially if not carefully ensembled. I happen to love the color and based on my finds here, I am excited to report, I will most certainly incorporate the color into my fall fashion collection. 1. Halston Heritage cape-back silk crepe dress $445 2. Stella McCartney Kelly Wool-Twill skirt $695 3. J.Crew Stripped Jersey t-shirt $98 4. Prada d-frame acetate sunglasses $225 5. Kenneth Jay Lane Swarovski crystal clip on earings $95 6. J.Crew Canvas wedge sandals $230 7. Chloe Madeleine Leather Tote $2295 8. Bottega Veneta Intnecciato Leather I-Pad Sleeve $590 9. Burberry Brogue Print Silkscarf $395