February 2013 | girl avant garde

Spring Fashion 2013

Posted on February 28, 2013 by Courtney Starr

I always look forward to fashion in the Spring and Summer time. Today is finally, finally the last day of February and Spring is in the air – I can almost hear it coming and I cannot wait to frolick around the city streets in a mini skirt. I’ve tried out all sorts of (my own made up) superstitions and voodoo to bring Spring on faster, including wearing my feather light dresses outdoors these past few weeks. (Which did not work, and I do not recommend. You will get a cold, just like I did. Hmph.) But it will be appropriate to break out all our floral prints, pastel hues, and lightweight scarves soon enough. Here are a few pieces I can’t wait to flaunt. spring fashion trends 2013

Outfit – Sparkle & Lace

Posted on February 27, 2013 by Courtney Starr

sugarbean_3

One of my claims to fame is that I never get sick. I’m so serious, I sell myself on my immune system. But last weekend I had the worst cold and although I cancelled some plans, there were a few with which I would not and could not part. I wore this outfit to a few commitments on Sunday and the monotone darkness and disheveled hair (grungy chic, if you will) are right on point with the way I felt. But I find that the trick is to play up other details that detract from the rest – like a pop of lace, or some beautiful, delicate Sugar Bean jewelry that add a hint of sparkle.

sugarbean_b sugarbean_6a sugarbean_5 sugarbean_2

Recipe – Cafe Gitane’s Avocado Toast

Posted on February 26, 2013 by Courtney Starr

I’ve lived in NYC for 2.5 years now and I’m still discovering little gems at every new corner I turn. My latest discovery was the avocado toast at Cafe Gitane in the West Village. Avocado is one of those miracle foods – packed with flavor, delicious, and still healthy. I’ve used it on salads and made many a guacamole dip. But I’d never thought to try it as a spread, until my life-changing moment at Cafe Gitane. And really, all it took was a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of sea salt and pepper flakes, and a drizzle of oil atop some toasted bread. Simple. Delicious.

What you’ll need: 2 Slices of bread (I like Rye or Multi-grain); 1/2 Avocado; Sea salt; Lemon Juice; Red Pepper Flakes

Steps: 1. Toast 2 pieces of bread. 2. Cut avocado in half, scoop out pit, and mash the insides in a bowl. Mix with lemon juice. 3. Spread avocado on toast and drizzle with a dash of oil, pepper flakes, and a touch of sea salt. Enjoy!

Outfit – Polish Problem

Posted on February 25, 2013 by Courtney Starr

Let me tell you about my polish problem. If you came over my apartment one of the first things you’d notice is that it is overflowing with nail polish. They’re everywhere (bathroom cabinets, on my coffee table, etc. etc). I love to do my nails while I’m watching television or studying (hello multi-tasking). So when the people at Julep asked me to pair my nails with an outfit for their blog I couldn’t wait.

I chose Julep shades Alyson & Lucy , which struck the perfect balance for February - Valentine love and indoor fireside warmth. Because I can’t resist a little bling I paired it with the glittery Vivien too. I chose to match my outfit to my nails, but I also love that these colors can be mixed, matched, and decorated to create a whole new vibe.

Check out a version of this post on Julep!

Life Lately – The Little Things

Posted on February 22, 2013 by Courtney Starr

{The little things – A weekday walk through the West Village}

The winter months generally go by slower than the summer. After the December holidays and then Valentine’s Day, it seems that I can’t stop looking forward to mid-March, when the weather becomes warmer and I can replace my black skinny jeans with white mini skirts, when the flowers start blooming on the trees, and when I can sit at an outdoor cafe and enjoy an iced coffee. (Sigh). So when the short winter days seem never ending, I try to make an extra effort to focus on the little things.

This past weekend we decided to get out of town for the night and visit Josh’s family, which is always a treat. Then in between and after classes I explored parts of the city I rarely take the time to visit (I don’t know why – I LOVE the West Village). Other mini adventures included cupcake surprises from Magnolia Bakery, trying out a bright new lip color, and more. This weekend we’re dogsitting my family’s 8-lb maltese, which I could not be more excited about. I told you, it’s the little things, theoretically & literally. See you soon Hudson dog…Happy weekend!

the little things - train ride, bow flats, and financier coffee

{Last minute escape from the city}

the little things - magnolia bakery cupcakes

{A trip to Magnolia Bakery}

{Bright lipstick to add a bit of pop to my look}