January 2013 | girl avant garde

Winter Mint & Print

Posted on January 31, 2013 by Courtney Starr

As a law student, I’m often taking part in events or meetings that require me to dress professionally and conservatively. Not that I’m against a perfectly tailored suit, but sometimes you need a little somethin’ somethin’ to stand out from the crowd. To give off a youthful vibe, without coming off as unprofessional, I like to bring in a few feminine elements to my look. In this situation, it was a brightly colored top and classic printed pants from Francesca’s. Add a blazer and the look is complete.

Francesca’s is currently offering 20% off Girl Avant Garde readers with the code AVANTGARDE. Offer Valid until February 28th.

Happy Thursday!! xo

White Chocolate Tapioca Pudding

Posted on January 30, 2013 by Courtney Starr

When it’s cold outside, or I’m feeling a tinge of homesickness I like to indulge in a tiny bit of comfort food. I’m not one who craves hamburgers or macaroni and cheese, but white chocolate tapioca pudding…Well, you had me at white chocolate. It’s been so cold, gloomy, and rainy in New York lately that I decide to stay in…meaning in the kitchen. I edited this recipe from Emeril Lagasse by taking out the rum (I’m a lightweight), substituting the semi sweet chocolate for white chocolate, and garnishing with a few blackberries. It came out just the way I like it, and I felt totally content indulging on the couch while watching TV on Monday night (Okay, Okay, I was watching the Bachelor).

Great Deception

Posted on January 29, 2013 by Courtney Starr

Dress c/o Beauxx.com | Bracelets – Jcrew, Forever21, c/o Shoppalu, c/o Caravelle by Bulova | Shoes c/o JustFabb | Jacket – Forever21

The name of this dress is “Great Deception”. It sounds so mysterious and scandalous…so all the more reason to love it. I’m also kind of obsessed with the neckline, which is very unique and different from any other dress I own. I wore it out last Saturday night. I always dress up for nights out because I feel like the more special the outfit, then the more special the night will become. (Okay, I tend to make up superstitions that work in my favor.) Anyway, Beauxx.com seriously has a ton of dresses currently taking up spots on my wish list including this, this, and this one.

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas {and a Giveaway -CLOSED}

Posted on January 28, 2013 by Courtney Starr

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Do you hear that? It’s my favorite holiday coming up! I adore Valentine’s Day not only for the flowers and sweets, but also because it’s another reminder of life’s most precious gift: love. Josh and I typically go out for dinner and reminisce about the day we met and how far our relationship has come. It’s pretty special. In anticipation of the holiday, which is now just a little over two weeks away, I’ve put together a list of Valentine’s Day gift ideas for him (Josh’s recommendations) and her (my wish list). Without further ado…

1. A box of macarons :: 2. Cartier love bracelet (a splurge) :: 3. Chloe Perfume :: 4. Eberjey Teddy 5. Jo Malone Candle 6. Steven “Ravesh” Bow Pumps 7. Taylormade Golf Bag 8. Instant Beer Chiller (or wine!) 9. Kiehl’s Travel Kit 10. Beats Headphones 11.Burberry Cashmere Sweater (50% off) 12. Allen Edmonds “Clifton” Shoes

:: Giveaway ::

And because gift giving is arguably more fun than receiving, here’s a little Valentine’s Day Giveaway. Up for grabs is this chic satchel from Olivia + Joy. The color transitions perfectly from winter to spring.

To Enter: Must (1) Like Girl Avantgarde on Facebook, (2) be a Follower of Girl Avantgarde on Twitter, and (3) follow on Instagram or Pinterest. Please leave a comment with your account names and forms of entry so I can confirm. This giveaway is open internationally. Enter by February 4th at 11:59pm. I will announce the winner on the 5th and ship it out immediately so you receive it just on time for Valentine’s Day. Good luck! This giveaway is now CLOSED.

Congratulations to commenter No. 31 : Meredith B! Thank you to all who entered.

Life Lately

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Courtney Starr

Delicious petit desserts at our hotel in Vermont

This week was the perfect mix of everything I love and these photos captured some aspects of it. It started off with some fun activities and relaxation last weekend in Vermont. Monday consisted of blogging and errands, while Tuesday through Thursday was the perfect balance of school and meetings. I received invitations to my first ever fashion shows, so will be attending MBFW in two weeks! I absolutely can’t wait to share all the details. Make sure you’re following on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for instant updates! (I’ll be like a kid stepping into a toy store for the very first time. #Truth) These next few days Josh and I are lying low. As for now we have a dinner planned, and then who knows what the weekend will bring.

Sledding like little kids

Instant new fave – the Renzo + Kai Spring Collection

Thanks to Vermont, I now feel like I need a fireplace in my bedroom

My mom said never to play with my food…books weren’t a problem (until now)