Pour La Victoire, Seriously Haute Shoes In Noir
March 17, 2009
Alright, I have shoes on my mind and I want something with a strong bold statement. Pour La Victoire is setting just the perfect mood for me- very high heels in a clasic black color, but incredibly rich with attitude.
Brazilian made and French inspired, Pour La Victoire’s shoes are indeed very fabulous.
Above is the Paige Sandal and Tia Platform Slide, both with a gorgeous heel and filled with straps. I think I prefer the Paige for every day wear since it can be worn with most anything, but there is something so dangerous and sultry about the Tia Platform that I cannot resist. Both are killer heels to take notice of. I am adding them to my list.
Classic black heels are fabulous, but sometimes you want a little more attitude or play in structure to reinvent the timeless look- perhaps why we can never have enough black shoes… though the same applies to shoes in any color, truly!
You can find them online from endless, zappos, or your preferable place to shop for shoes- I am loving these styles very much, definitely meeting my cravings.
In fact, the Sabrina Platform below has also caught my eye- has that rock and roll glamor look and feel to it. Quite fun!
Foamy & Creamy Tastes of Belgium
March 11, 2009
Although my favorite beers are dark beers (especially the black ones like Kostritzer), occasionally I will want something on the lighter side that is only slightly crisp, but still rich with texture and flavor. When I first tasted the St. Sebastiaan Dark I was in love- the bottle is so charming and the taste did not disappoint. It was rich and reminded me of gingerbread (which I love) and is one I will definitely be having again.
I noticed St. Sebastiaan also offered a Grand Cru in a similar ceramic bottle; naturally I chose to indulge. I was very curious to see what else they could provide as the dark bottle was so wonderful.
Wow, what a creamy and foamy head on a slightly pale pour. I could bathe in those bubbles, I love how rich they look. And it is indeed very creamy in texture – not like anything I’ve really had before, and as unexpected as it was it made for a lovely drink. Perfect for that in-between mood when dark and heavy isn’t what you are craving but light is just too light. And the bottle it comes in is an absolute delight.
I’d recommend both for a lovely tasting, beginning with the grand cru and following with the dark for the full experience to see what you like best, if not both. I like to keep different tastes, styles, and textures in mind for the different moods of an evening or occasion, and both of these make for a yummy treat.
Winter Ale Love, Christmas With St. Berardus
March 3, 2009
Maybe it’s the cool weather outside that has me thinking of Christmas all over again, but I had a lovely evening with St. Berardus the other night.
And I always do, but this was my first taste of the Christmas Ale. I purchased the bottle over the holiday season and never got around to opening it. Most Belgian ales do well to age like wine, so part of me thought to keep it for later on in the year. Well, with these cool temperatures outside I felt inspired to give it a go.
Delighted I did, too! Just look at this pour… I love the little bits of texture found in this bottle- so yummy and a special treat.
Isn’t it beautiful? Oh, I love it!
So dreamy, and the taste is wonderful- very much like Christmas. The blend of spices are rich and cozy, you could even see a few specs in the foam once it poured. The label makes me smile every time, too. It is marvelous.
St. Bernardus makes fabulous ales, and I am enjoying this special treat. When Christmas comes again, you know what will be on my list.
Lavender Beauty with a Radiant Glow
January 14, 2009
When was the last time you were given a bracelet that you instantly loved and felt connected with? It glows when you wear it and somehow you just feel pretty and fabulous, and even invincible, to the world. It is rare to find such a charm, but you know it when it happens.
For me, it is my lavender beauty:
And what beautiful timing for such a treat! My fiance has done very well with this one 
I’m quite the lucky little lady, as he always surprises me with the most wonderful things.
I love everything about this bracelet- especially the way it feels when I put it on. It is so light and delicate yet you can really sense a strong and powerful energy radiate from it. It is gorgeous!
And for me, it matches my personality and love of fashion and femininity.
I love it when jewelry has a soft and unique sound to it, and when I move these glass lavender beads make such a beautiful and soft little song. I love how they dangle from a single thin and solid band- and just look at the beads themselves, the color is so rich and gorgeous, quite even more so in person. A heart with a delicate little design- love it. I will admit I do love hearts, maybe it is the girlie child love in me but I so do still adore them.
I can wear this and not feel like it was intended for a child as a toy, though- which I like. It isn’t always easy to pull a heart off in jewelry without looking forced or foolish. And I think once again LOVEMADDS accomplished it flawlessly here.
It isn’t often a luxury like this one comes along- and you can be sure I will not be letting this discovery go, either. I am constantly excited to see what she is creating next; Madeline Rhodes is a designer with an energy of her own you can genuinely see and feel in each one of her designs. Am looking forward to seeing even more from her.
As well as indulging and treating myself The beauty of each piece having a unique personality and charm, too is that it makes for the perfect present. I have some very fashionable friends who can be difficult to shop for at times- the will they love it or hate it factor can be troublesome in department stores. But with her collection and its uniqueness I don’t have to worry and know my friends will love it! Who doesn’t love a one-of-a-kind hand crafted gem designed just for them? So fabulous!
Am looking forward to a pretty and fabulous birthday this weekend- it arrived just in time!
Playfully Bold Dress With A Bow
January 12, 2009
Do you have a fashion favorite? When it comes to fashion and style, dresses have always come first for me. I adore them as those who know me know the truth in this statement.
But there are so many kinds and styles- from the form fitted to the interestingly shaped, from the hardly there to the filled with volume. There are elegant evening dresses and fresh spring like day dresses.
It is why I adore this dress so much, it blends into both rather well. The colors and pattern are rich and sophisticated, yet the way it is presented, with a cute little bow and open wide fun shape, it is easily playful and fun, too.
Not to mention comfortable, but I like the simplicity. The lines of the dress do more than anything, and with such a bold pattern you don’t want to do something too complex. This is a fun dress that works for any occasion and that is why I love it.
I want to find more like it. It is slightly fitted at the top and then flares out with huge volume to the bottom- but is not so long that it swallows you up, just enough to be fun and fashionable.
There are other very elegant dresses I own that wrap up top with a bow, however they are all either black and white or a consistent pastel shade- nothing so rich as like the pattern seen here. Since finding this dress it is something I have been on the look out for.
Fabulous Framboise Lambic Belgium Beer
January 3, 2009
MMmmm, simply marvelous! From its rich velvety texture to its luscious fruit flavors, sometimes I just have to indulge into my Lambic cravings.
Now, I’ll admit I am a bit bias in my admiration for Belgium Beers, it is in my family name after all. But this one is a love even for the non beer drinker.
I was craving dessert this evening, something in a beverage but not quite a martini- when suddenly I ran into it and remembered the lambics. Seen here in raspberry, this malty beverage comes in many fruit filled flavors (Lindemans carries cassis/black currant, pomme/apple, kriek/cherry, peche/peach, you name it and they are all quite wonderful).
It is a good balance that comes together beautifully.
I don’t know what it is with me and beers with corks, but somehow it seems to be a recurring theme! This one in particular actually has a cap on top of the cork which is quite rare. It is all covered with a richly colored foil that best matches its fruit flavor.
It is made from local barley, unmalted wheat, and wild yeast. Raspberries are added after spontaneous fermentation creating a secondary fermentation which yields exceptional flavor and complexity in this beer.
It is a must try for anyone!
Golden Treats of Christmas Beauty
December 29, 2008
With Christmas comes loving time with family and friends, moments reflecting on all we are grateful for, and the luxuries of Christmas presents. It has been a beautiful year and I am now reminded of it as well as the love of my family with these golden beauties I was given this year.
First on the list is this glamorous, decadent yet simple bracelet from Coach. Isn’t it fabulous? I had no idea they had such a collection of jewelry available. It is an elegant design and full of wealth, beauty and glamor- the things I love. And as a bonus, it even matches the straps of my patent leather pumps with the gold buckle- how adorable is that?
Also on the gold theme of things, is something my Grandmother gave to me for Christmas. I love cats, especially the wild ones- combine that with gold and diamond and I am all over it. It may only be rhinestones or something of the like- but that certainly doesn’t take away the glamor of this sophisticated pin.
Pins are something I adore to collect and wear on top of scarfs, wraps, and even on top of other jewelry (strands of pearls held together by a gorgeous broach- a fabulous favorite of mine to indulge in!).
This present from my Grandmother is a new favorite of mine, and with it still being cool outside I have plenty of chances to wear it! The look and feel of it alone is rich in beauty, but knowing it was from my Grandmother adds a unique and special factor I cannot even describe. Needless to say, it is important to me and something I am very much appreciative of.
Hope your treats were just as golden, whether they were items or memories, or even just a golden note of gratitude. Christmas is such a lovely time of year. Now it is time to be ready for a new year.
Kostritzer, Mmm I like my beer like my coffee: BLACK
August 26, 2008
I am quite particular when it comes to my beers, though I often find myself rewarded for it. By far, Black lager is a favorite of mine. Kostritzer is everything I love in a black lager in one convenient and pretty bottle.
Don’t think me a snob- I will try any beer at least once (usually a sip of another person’s so I am not dedicated to it) and am open to other styles. Belgium ales are consistent choice for me as I love my Blue Label Chimay. The Trappists know what they are doing. But that is another entry altogether. More on that one later.
Ooh, the Kostritzer though! Look how lovely it looks on its own- so delicious.
For its rich and dark appearance, it has a surprisingly light and clean finish (nothing like a loaf of bread others may offer). It has a delicious malty texture to it as well, but again quite surprisingly light in body. It certainly has body, don’t be misinformed- it is such a nice balance.
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This is a special treat for me, as I have only been able to find it at this restaurant we go to in Sarasota when we visit my fiance’s father. It makes it that much more of a treat to enjoy it in great company.
If you see this one around let me know and try it for yourself. Even if you *think* it may not be your thing, it is always worth a taste to see for sure. Who knows, it could be your new favorite, too!
Much love and divine tastes, xx
Lamb, Mint, And Burgers of Beauty
June 21, 2008
So I am a bit hungry for a light but distinctive lunch and I remember I have some mint left over from my cucumber mint sandwiches. Instantly lamb comes to mind.
The grocery had ground lamb which looked lovely and I simply couldn’t pass it up. I love its flavor and when prepared with mint it is the perfect compliment. Now, when I prepare my burgers I like to mince some fresh garlic and mix it into the meat- that way when it cooks the flavor is bursting in every bite- YUM. Combine chopped mint leaves in the mix and you are talking heaven.
Seasoned with some coarse salt and pepper and they are ready to go. Sear it in some browned butter or put it on the grill- it is to your liking and so simple to prepare and do.
Not into the lamb but like the burger idea? Make it Au Poivre and coat the sides in peppercorn. It gives it texture and a zap of great taste- simple ingredients always reveal themselves as their best in the results.
Burgers need not be boring. Either with minced garlic in the mix or on its own. What I like to do is have some goat cheese (or sometimes blue cheese) in the center of my burger before placing it on the grill or in the pan. The cheese melts but stays inside promising every bite to be a grand one.
Play with the bun and mix the toppings as much as you like. Caramelized onions are always a great choice as is a kaiser bun. But that’s just me.
Make them small and bite sized or large and rich. Above all- make them your own and make them delicious.
