Labor Day Fun: Vintage Jewels and Cocktails

This labor day weekend it's time to kick back, relax and have fun ringing in the final days of summer. Our 4th of July cocktails were a huge hit, and this time around we were inspired by a few of our favorite vintage pieces for the cocktails we will be enjoying this long weekend!

 

Shop these House of Lavande Vintage pieces at Houseoflavande.com or Taigan.com

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House of Lavande + Gilt Sale

 It's been our little secret for some time now but we are ready to announce our upcoming online event: a sale on Gilt.com! We've always been big fans of Gilt here at House of Lavande and we are extra-excited to offer our pieces on their site. There are so many different and unique pieces that you are bound to find the right item for your wardrobe with everything from necklaces to earrings to cuffs and bracelets. 

The Details: 
Shop the pieces starting at noon (Eastern time) on Friday, August 31 so make sure to set a reminder on your calendars, ladies! And don't forget you can shop the sale just as easily on your iPhone with the Gilt Groupe App in case you aren't by a computer when it starts. Below is only a preview of some of the fabulous jewels you will find.. Happy Shopping!

Shop the Sale at noon on Friday, August 31st

Photos courtesy of Gilt Groupe

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What's Inside: House of Lavande's Picnic Basket

Warm, breezy long summer days are the perfect time to pull out your favorite oversized blanket, lay around with friends in the sunshine snacking on good food and enjoying cool drinks! These are some of our picks that will help you enjoy the perfect summer picnic.

1. Chevron Cotton Blanket // 2. Aged Cheddar Pimento Cheese // 3. Charleston Bloody Mary Mix // 

4. Pleasant Ridge Reserve cheese // 5. Lemon and Fig Basil Jam // 6. Juliska Colette Tumbler

7. Thomas Paul Portland Plate Set // 8. Faux Bamboo Flatware // 9. Graffiti Platter Blue Fish

10. Rattan Picnic Basket // 11. Green French Ticking Napkins // 12. Burnished Horn Spoon and Fork

13. Juliska Large Bamboo Pitcher

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Transition from Summer to Fall

With the end of Summer and Labor Day sneaking up on us, this week we're teaming up with Taigan to bring you our favorite picks ranging from style to food to travel. This House of Lavande Vintage 1980's Yves Saint Laurent necklace is a great addition to any wardrobe and can easily be transitioned from Summer to Fall. Follow these simple tips to make the transition.

-- For the end of summer, a great structured white dress with some killer heels is perfect. The gold necklace will stand out against the white making everyone's attention turn to you.. in a good way. 

-- Wear some funky sunglasses to add a unexpected twist to your outfit, like these John Lennon style glasses from Elizabeth & James.

-- For the fall, choose a neutral palette so the gold ties in easily. Browns and blacks are a good place to start if you aren't sure.

-- Add this necklace to a boat-neck styled sweater to add some dimension. A great pair of boots and some black skinny jeans will complete your outfit.

-- Since this necklace is structured, try picking a structured handbag to go along side it. 

House of Lavande Vintage 1980's YSL Necklace, found at House of Lavande

Summer Pieces, all found at Taigan:

Tweed and Leather Shift Dress, Ammara 'Madison'

Sandals, Stuart Weitzman

Sunglasses, Elizabeth & James

Fall Pieces, all found at Taigan:

Sweater, Vince

Boots, Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent

Handbag, Proenza Schouler

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Final Days Of Summer: Cold Sweet Summer Soup

The heat of summer is still upon us, but rest assured friends, fall is just around the corner. This week we are featuring our favorite recipes, jewels, and fashions to ring in the final days of summer. Today we are featuring a summer soup, that perfectly compliments warm days, as well as meatless monday! 

Cold Sweet Summer Soup-Koldskål:

20 fresh medjool dates

5 eggs 

4 cups of organic cultured milk

4 cups of organic thick cultured milk (like yogurt) 

1 tsp vanilla extract 

1 organic lemon, juice and zest

1 batch of fresh strawberries and rsapberries

Start by mashing your pitted dates with a fork until sticky. Beat the eggs and mix them with the date mash. Place the mixture in a blender and pulse and pulse a few times. Add milk, yogurt, vanilla and lemon and blend on high speed until light and frothy. Serve chilled in bowls with slices of strawberries and raspberries. 

(photo and recipe courtesy of Green Kitchen Stories)

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Spotted: House of Lavande

The past couple of weeks the lovely ladies of hollywood have been sporting their House of Lavande Vintage in true style. From afternoons out, to the red carpet, these ladies show us how to efortlessly wear a classic vintage pieces with ease.

*Shop these pieces now at House of Lavande

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Jewelry Trend: Stacked Bangles

It's fair to say at this point that everyone is obsessed with stacking bracelets. Big, small, colorful and jeweled, the one thing that remains a constant is the more the merrier. A go to favorite of ours is the victorian gold filled bangle with the added glitz of the 1920's deco channel set bracelet. Add in a little flare with an animal cuff or vintage YSL and you've got  a combo that won't miss. It's definitely time to welcome vintage to this party.

*Shop these looks now at House of Lavande

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House of Lavande Playlist: The New Sounds

Listen here: House of Lavande Playlist: New Music Favorites

 Listening to a great song wether it's for the first time or the hundredth time, will always give you a certain feeling. Recalling a memory, or just knowing you are hearing something truly great, is something special. This is a small collection of tracks that we've had on repeat- from recently released to ones that will drop this fall that we anxiously await... until then, enjoy. 

1. Bloc Party- Real Talk // Album: Four (August 21)

2. The xx- Angels // Album: Coexist (September 11)

3. Purity Ring- Obedear // Album: Shrines

4. Deer Tick- Main Street // Album: Devine Providence

5. Two Wounded Birds- To Be Young // Album: Self Titled

6. Races- Lies // Album: Big Broom

7. The Lumineers- Flowers in Your Hair // Album: Self Titled 

8. Alabama Shakes- Goin' to the Party // Album: Boys & Girls

9. We Are Serenades- Walking Home // Album: Criminal Heaven

10. Cat Power- Ruin // Album: Sun (September 11)

11. Band of Horses- Knock Knock // Album: Mirage Rock (September 18)

12. The Killers- Runaways // Album: Battle Born (September 18)

13. No Doubt- Settle Down // Album: Push and Shove (September 25)

14. Yukon Blonde- Stairway // Album: Tiger Talk

15.  The Wall Flowers- Reboot // Album: Glad All Over (October 2)

16. Mumford and Sons- Hopeless Wanderer // Album: Babel (September 25)

*Not available on Spotify, and impossible to leave out

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Beauty Trend: Fall Must Haves

We have all, by now been through our September issues over and over. Aside from all of the beautiful fashions, there were some major makeup moments that caught our eye as well. We talked about a few of our favorite fall beauty trends a few weeks ago, now it's time to share those essential items that are on the top of the list to get these fall trends in motion! 

Eyes: Lancome Violet Magnetique Eye Palette
Aerin Beauty Weekend Style Palette 

Lips: Nars Autumn Leaves sheer lipstick
Stila Lip/Cheek Glaze

Hair: Phyto Phytonectar Nourishing Shampoo
Bumble & Bumble Hairdressers invisible oil

Skin: Ren Bio Retinoid Anti- Ageing Concentrate
Origins Checks and Balances frothy face wash  

Nails: Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Frenzy
Essie nail polish in Head Mistress

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Day to Night: Kramer Earrings, Ciner Cuff

Pairing unique and unexpected House of Lavande Vintage pieces with key pieces in your wardrobe is a great way to complete any look.  A flowing Joie top, and brightly colored cutoffs are a great summer staple for day, while a sleek, form fitting Gucci dress and classic Choo pumps will assure you are stopping the show at night.

Featured House of Lavande Vintage Eearrings and Cuff:

1960's Kramer peridot button earrings

1970's Ciner enamel and diamante cuff

Day Look:

1. Kate Spade Gold Coast Dove Handbag

2. Ray Ban Classic Aviators

3. Christian Louboutin Sakouette loafers

4. Joie Russa top

5. Rag & Bone Mila cut off shorts

Night Look: 

1. Gucci wrap dress 

2. Bottega Vaneta clutch

3. Jimmy Choo black pumps

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Style Trend: Thoroughly Modern Military

There's a new take on military and it took the runways of Fall/Winter 2012 by storm, especially with designers and lines like Elizabeth and James and Jason Wu. Tailored jackets and dresses with intricate jewelry mixed with the classic colors of green, brown and black. 

-- Military is a fairly easy trend to incorporate into your wardrobe. Stick with a lot of dark, neutral colors like army green, browns and black is always a good accent color. 

-- The new military trend is all about tailored dresses and jackets. Try a belted coat with a feminine twist like the one below from Ted Baker London or an empire line dress that is full of navy, brown and tweed (or any color you desire!)

-- Shoes are always a great place to start with this trend, especially if you aren't sure you want to suit up. Try a bootie with embroidery up the side or a over-the-knee boot in a dark suede.

-- This is one trend where you can get away with head-to-toe military and not be overwhelming. Why not try all of these style tips together this fall, you'll be sure to look polished and pulled together.

Coat: Ted Baker London Full Skirt Belted Coat  Handbag: Proenza Schouler PS1 Military Tote

Over-The-Knee Boots: Fendi Suede Military Boots  Cuff: House of Lavande Vintage

Dress: Aquilano.Rimondi Empire Line Dress  Necklace: House of Lavande Vintage

Booties: Aldo Bregon Boots

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Jetsetter Destinations: Kenya, Africa

Truly rewarding experiences in life often happen when we step out of our comfort zone, and explore what the world has to offer. Such is the case when visiting Campi ya Kanzi, nestled within the legendary 'Green Hills of Africa',  upon a 280,000 acre Maasai Group Ranch. This award winning luxury safari destination is a pioneer in environmental sustainability, providing not only an unforgettable wilderness experience, but an authentic view into Maasai culture, while directly involving  the local community. A true definition of ecotourism, Campi ya Kanzi is a partnership initiative with the Maasai, whereby the ultimate travel adventure simultaneously aids in the preservation of wildlife and cultural heritage. Personalized game drives, flights over Kilimanjaro, guided star gazing, evening sundowners and visits of Maasai villages and schools are just some of the exhilarating, memorable experiences to be had during a visit to this magical place. 

Learn more about Campi ya Kanzi, the affiliated Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, and the many benefits of visiting such a uniquely amazing place, here

Also, be sure to check out the Nyumba ya Kipepeo house in Malindi, proceeds of which go to the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust. 

*Photos courtesy of Veronika Borchers

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Designer Spotlight: Gucci

Founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence in 1921, The House of Gucci, better known simply as Gucci, has become a worldwide famous luxury fashion brand. While working in exclusive hotels in Paris and London, young Gucci was impressed with the luxurious luggage he saw guests bring with them. Today, the brand Gucci is known for it's hand-made leather goods and sophisticated and chic clothes and accessories. We have chosen some of our favorite Gucci items, including a famous Horse bit Bracelet we have here at House of Lavande.

Get the Gucci Look:

1990s Horse Bit Bracelet, House of Lavande Vintage

Brown 'Betty' Sandals, Profile Fashion

Multi Colored Silk Twill Scarf, Profile Fashion

'Flora by Gucci Eau de Toilette, Nordstrom

Ostrich-Leather Tote, Net-A-Porter

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Style Icons: Mary-Kate and Ashley

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

Known to the Fashion Industry as the CFDA 2012 Designers of the Year for their line, The Row. Known to the rest of the world as America's little sweetheart from Full House. Over the years, they have grown into young businesswomen and are one of top style icons for women around the world. With their laid-back bohemian day time looks and their sophisticated night looks, you are always guaranteed inspiration from the duo. Here we've put together some of our favorite looks from them.

Front Row Style: 

Always looking chic in the front row, we love MK + A's all black look here. With their blonde hair, this look is striking and makes them stand apart from the rest.

 Street Style: 

With MK + A, you never really know what you will see them in on the streets. Here we love their mixture of boho and sophistication. The all black ensembles are a favorite but we love the touches of gold and the ultra-chic messy boho hair.

 Elegant and Classy: 

These gowns are gorgeous and are a personal favorite. We love the addition of the blazer as it adds a "classic" Mary-Kate and Ashley touch.

Illustration: 1     

Photos: 1/2/3

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The New Arrivals

Fresh new inventory is up and ready to shop at Houseoflavande.com!

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Things We Love: Olympics

1. Women's Team Gymnastics - take the gold for the first time since 1996 for the all-around 2. Missy Franklin - the 17 year old who stole all our hearts. There's no stopping here either, she's got her eyes set on gold and gold only 3. Opening Ceremony - had its up's and down's but we couldn't get over the amazing firework display and the Queen's skit with Daniel Craig 4. Gold - the Olympics have made wearing gold and metallics that much more popular and we love it 5. Nail Art - girls from every country had their home country's flag painted on their nails with the Olympic Rings. We're kind of obsessed 6. London - could it be in a better city this year? 7. Michael Phelps - where to start, where to end. 22 medals, breaks multiple records.. is this really his last Olympics? 8. Gap's Olympic T-Shirts - are full of old school Olympic photos and cities. Such a chic way to support the Olympics

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Go for the Gold

With the 2012 Summer Olympics in its second week and metallics being a big trend this upcoming season, we couldn't think of a better style trend than gold. 

-- Metallics and gold can be an intimidating color to embrace if it isn't in the form of an Olympic medal. Start off easy by a chic pair of gold earrings or even gold platform sandals. Or better yet, pair the two together with a neutral colored outfit. These little touches will make a big impact without being overpowering the rest of your outfit.

-- If you are ready to go for the gold in a big way, try a metallic gold pencil skirt like the one below from Donna Karan. Pair with a white v-neck t-shirt for a casual look or a chiffon black button down for a more elegant and polished look.

-- A great necklace is always the perfect addition to any outfit so why not try a multi-layer gold necklace. This will catch everyone's eye, trust us. 

-- And remember, try to avoid wearing too many gold items at once. Jewelry is always a safe bet but if you start pairing it with clothes, shoes and other accessories your look will go from chic to overwhelming.

1. Donna Karan Metallic Fold-over Skirt   2. Christian Louboutin Rock and Gold 120 Ankle Boot3. House of Lavande 1950's Unsigned Necklace   4. Prada Rose Strappy Sandal   5. L'Artisan Parfumeur Al Oudh   
6. House of Lavande Givenchy Gold Earrings

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Iconic Women of Style: Women of the 2012 Olympics

With so much happening over in London, featuring one iconic woman this week just didn't seem sufficient. For the first time in history, the US has sent more women than men to the Olympic games. The women of the 2012 Olympic teams are not only wives, mothers, sisters, and friends, but fiercely competitive role-models who inspire us all to reach for our own greatness.  

Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh: Beach Vollyball

Misty is currently the most successful beach volleyball player in the world, with 110 championships under her belt. 

Kerri, mother of two and returning two time olympic champion has made history by winning two back to back gold medals, and possibly a third this year. 

Gabby Douglas: Gymnastics

At just 16 years old, Gabby Douglas is now the reigning world champion of women's gymnastics. The first African-American woman to hold the title. Staying focused and determined, she showed true poise in the journey gold. 

Hope Solo: Soccer

Considered to be the best goalkeeper in the world, Hope has had a career and life full of ups and downs.  She continues to inspire children and adults a like to stay passionate and follow their dreams of success no matter what the obstacle. 

Carmelita Jeter: Running

Jeter arrived at this year's games hoping to defend her title of worlds fastest woman. Coming in hundredths of a second behind the winner of the 100 meter race, Carmelita said of her race "I left my heart and soul on that track. When you do that you can't be upset."

Keep up with all of your favorite female olympians over at ESPNW throughout the rest of the games. 

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Day To Night: Christian Dior Necklace

This Christian Dior necklace from the 50's is a perfect chic way to accessorize any outfit. New to the House of Lavande Vintage collection, it is beyond classy with its gold tone and small diamante stones. 

Throw on a great pastel dress with your favorite pair of flats (we've decided to make it super casual but trendy with a pair of white Converse) and you've got the perfect outfit for any summer day. Change it up a little at night and wear a bright and sexy dress with your favorite pair of sky high heels and nobody will be able to keep their eyes off of you.

Featured Necklace: 

1950's Christian Dior, available at House of Lavande

Day Look:

1. Acne  Nude Marlow Dress

2. Proenza Schouler PS1 Large Tote Handbag

3. Ray Ban Aviator Sunglasses

4. Converse All Star White Canvas

Night Look:

1. Acne One Shoulder Silk Dress

2. House of Lavande Vintage bracelet

3. Anya Hindmarch Gold Glitter Valorie Clutch

4. Charlotte Olympia Pomeline Sandals

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The Jewel in the Lotus: Summer Garden Party

Friday night was a fantastic time at The Jewel in the Lotus event. A gorgeous summer evening filled with meditation, yoga, vintage jewels and delicious fresh foods was enjoyed by all! 

Also be sure to keep your eye out for other fun House of Lavande events this summer!

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Lollapalooza 2012: Our Playlist

What do Red Hot Chili Peppers, Florence + The Machine, Calvin Harris and The Black Keys all have in common? They are all in the lineup for Lollapalooza. (along with a large group of other great singers and bands) If you aren't one of the lucky ones with a pair of tickets for this year's event in Chicago,  don't worry. We've put together some of our favorite songs from some of the headliners for you to enjoy throughout your weekend. 

HOL Playlist: Lollapalooza

Our Lollapalooza Playlist:
1. Snow (Hey Oh) - Red Hot Chili Peppers // 2. Midnight City - M83
3. Shake it Out - Florence and the Machine// 4. Feels So Close - Calvin Harris
5.  Take a Walk- Passion Pit // 6. I Need a Dollar - Aloe Blacc
7. Lonely Boy - The Black Keys // 8. Levels - Avicci
9. Sixteen Saltines - Jack White // 10. Cult Logic - Miike Snow
11. This Modern Love - Bloc Party // 12. Time Spent in Los Angeles - Dawes 
13. Gold Guns Girls - Metric // 14. From Finner - Of Monsters and Men
15. Sweet Disposition - The Temper Trap // 16. Dominos - The Big Pink
17. I Found You - Alabama Shakes // 18. D.A.N.C.E.- Justice
19. Starstruck - Santigold // 20. Take Me Out - Franz Ferdinand  
21. You Yes You - Tune-Yards// 22. We Are Young - Fun.

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Stylish Home: The Bar Cart

The bar cart trend that began as a stylish way to entertain in the 1940's, is once again having it's moment. The nostalgic feel of a well stocked bar cart is the perfect addition to an evening of entertaining guests, or just as a delightful corner of self expression in your home. We've rounded up a few key pieces that we love that will get your bar cart rolling.

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9

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Lavender Fever

Color always adds that extra "pop" to any outfit but there is something special about the color purple. It adds a bit of sophistication and a bit of chic to any outfit ensemble. It's a great staple color to have in your closet in any form.  Try these tips to incorporate these pieces into your wardrobe:


- If you aren't familiar with wearing the color purple, why not try trying a nail lacquer in a light lavender, a phone case in a great purple, or a simple  ring. These little touches will be a great introduction to this color family.


- If you are feeling a little more bold, try a fabulous pair of purple heels. Pair with an all black outfit for a night on the town and people will be complimenting you all night long.


- Statement earrings are always a great idea in the color purple. Try a great pair of vintage clear stone earrings like the ones above from House of Lavande Vintage.


- If you want to dive head first into the purple trend, a great purple dress like this DvF wrap dress will look classic and timeless.


Get this look:
House of Lavande Vintage  earrings
iPhone4 case
Cutler and Gross sunglasses
Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress
House of Lavande Vintage ring
Butter LONDON nail lacquer 
Proenza Schouler PS1 handbag
Casadei platform sandals

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