Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living InParis

Today I wanted to share a book that has truly inspired me. We recently went to the library and I stumbled upon the above book, 'Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris' by Jennifer L. Scott. Truth be told I thought it would be a lighthearted "beach read" on how french women do it best but in fact it is much more.

The book is filled with stories of Jennifer's experience during her six months of studying abroad in Paris and ideas on how to live life well. She stayed with a very traditional family who were quite chic in seemingly every aspect of their life. Jennifer speaks mostly on the advice she received from the lady of the house, whom she affectionately calls Madame Chic, and also what she learned from simply watching Madame Chic and her family. 

Madame Chic would be what we Americans consider prim, proper and elegant. She quickly showed Jennifer that you needn't have many "things" in order to live well. Madame Chic was clean and organized, she cared for herself, for her home and for her family.  She didn't worry with trends. She knew what looked good on her and didn't stray from what made her feel beautiful. From the hairstyle that fit her best to the cut of the clothes she wore, she was a woman who knew what quality truly meant.

Jennifer touches on many other topics such as: having a love for the arts, eating meals filled with quality ingredients, having an air of mystery, how to carry yourself and how we should invest money into core, quality items for our wardrobe. 

After reading I felt inspired to get up the next morning and to live differently even if no one would know.  Jennifer often mentions that the Chic Family were presentable at all times. They cared for the way that they looked even if it meant that they were not going to see someone that day. She encourages that you wear your favorite dress and that you should use your china as often as possible. Why wait for a special occasion when everyday is an occasion.

What I took away most from this book is that we can all be Madame Chic. It's the notion that you can cultivate a lovely life whether you're living in the sixteenth arrondissment of Paris or in middle Tennessee. It is about making a conscious decision to love what you have and have what you love. By purchasing quality items that you cherish and take care of, you find that your need for more, more, more has lessened.  This also speaks to the food you eat, the music you listen to and the books you read. It's about quality, not quantity.

I am inspired to cultivate a beautiful life. I had lost sight of the beautiful and lovely things during this transition we are in but am ready to live well regardless of our circumstances.

I hope you check out Jennifer's book, her blog which she updates frequently along with her videos on YouTube. 

Have a wonderful evening, friends. I hope your Monday went well!

xoxo bd

4th of July Vacation: Birmingham

Hello friends!

After spending a few days in Birmingham with family for the holiday weekend, we are settling back into our daily routines and I wanted to take a moment to share a few photos of our time with you.

For the past 12+ years my family and I have visited my Aunt, Uncle and cousins in Birmingham, AL.They have a lovely home with a large pool and the most relaxing sun porch made for reading and naps, of course!
Adam and I decided to go up a couple of days early to have some alone time in addition to exploring the city and suburbs of Birmingham. I took some time prior to arriving to research a few places to visit and was lucky enough to do it all. On Wednesday we had lunch at California Pizza Kitchen followed by shopping at The Summit (Madewell, C. Wonder, Sur La Table). I purchased a couple of turkish towels at sur la table for our future home and am so I'm excited to be able to use them.

Thursday we ventured to a small but very affluent town, Mountain Brook. Driving through the tree lined winding roads you were met with beautiful custom homes on both sides. I apologize for the photos being slightly grain-y but we were going about 45 mph so this is as good as I could get. I must say, the Colonial home was my favorite.

We drove into one of the villages they have in Mountain Brook, specifically English Village to have brunch at Chez LuLu. Having arrived a little before they opened, we meandered about the shops and grabbed a couple of treats and an iced latte at The Continental Bakery.

The thumbprint cookie with raspberry jam and the the french love cookie, respectively.

After walking about the village we sat down at the tables outside of Chez LuLu (adjacent to the Continental Bakery) for lunch and were able to eat with my cousin, Tessa.

First they greeted us with a bread basket and dipping oil, so naturally we felt like we made the right choice.

I ordered the soup and salad sampler with my choice of any soups or salads offered. I chose two salads, the roasted walnut, goat cheese and pear salad with a champagne vinaigrette; the beet and avocado salad; a warm carrot soup (this was absolutely amazing!) and a cup of the gazpacho whose descriptors have left me. It was yummy, that's all I can recall.

 

Adam had the Goat Cheese, Pesto and Tomato Sandwich along with a cup of the gazpacho as well. 

We spent the rest of the afternoon in and out of the local boutiques and later saw a movie with the family!

On the 4th we all slept in and enjoyed a pancake breakfast thanks to my Aunt Beth. It was red white and blue themed, of course. We had our bathing suits on, magazines out and sunscreen applied by mid morning. It was so relaxing!

After swimming and hanging out for quite a while we hopped over to Steel City Pops for an afternoon treat. They make  gourmet popsicle's  and let me tell you, they do it well. Hello, Coffee Pop!

By the end of the day I looked like one hot lobster. I don't tan, I mainly burn, so I am still reeling from the effects of the sun. Regardless of my candy cane lookin' legs, we had a wonderful time. I realized after uploading all of the photos that it was mainly of the fun food we ate and none of us or our family! 

If ever you find yourself in Birmingham or in the very least passing through, I suggest you take a few minutes to explore this fun city.

I hope your holiday weekend was enjoyable! We'll talk soon, I promise.

xoxo  bd

Ipsy June 2014

A couple of days ago, as posted on instagram, I received the June ipsy glam bag. I had initially subscribed to ipsy last June/July but after a few months cancelled due to my growing makeup collection. First world problems, right? I decided after watching a couple of videos on what some subscribers received in their May bags and decided I wanted in, if only for one month.

I must admit, very rarely have I been disapointed in any month that I received a bag. The products are more often than not full sized makeup, haircare or tools. For $10/month, you tend to receive items that total more than that amount. 

Be A Bombshell Lashout Mascara (full size)

Marc Anthony Dream Waves Beach Spray (large travel sized sample)

NYX Buttler Lipgloss in Apple Strudel (full size)

Essence of Beauty Body Mist in Forever Paris (travel sized sample)

NickaK Shimmer Eyeliner in Green (full size)

Very cute tropical flower print nylon bag with fabric designed by Rebecca Minkoff, renowned handbag designer.

Each of the products I have received, including the bag, I could definitely pop in my beach bag for touch ups after a long day by the pool or on the sand.

So if you've ever been on the fence about whether or not to try this subscription service out, I say give it a go! If you are not into experimenting with different beauty brands but know someone who is, this would be a great gift.

For more information on ipsy, click here.

Talk to you soon...

xoxo bd

Summer Inspiration

A little inspiration from my tumblr to start the day off well...

With the first day of summer being this Saturday I have found myself dreaming of vacationing to Italian beaches, reading a captivating novel and jumping into crystal blue waters. Needless to say, I'm counting down until vacation days in July. 

xoxo bd

*all photos via lovelylittleplace*

Current Skincare Favorites

For a couple of years I was in serious makeup mode but decided this year that I wanted to focus on skincare. 

I have invested more money and time into the care of my skin and have noticed a difference.

A couple of years ago I could have gone to bed with makeup on and may not have felt a kick back the following morning but now my skin reacts for a couple of days. If I want to wake up blemish free, I must put the time into properly cleansing and moisturizing. 

Bosica Little Black Book

About a month and half ago I purchased the Bosica Little Black Book Skincare sampler. Never having used the Bosica brand before I was slightly hesitant to try it out due to my sensitive skin. Oh me of little faith. That entire line is wonderful and has even received rave reviews from Adam. 

I have used the Detoxifying Black Cleanser and the Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel the most.  The sizes as you can see are quite small, far from being the full size, but after almost daily use of the cleanser and twice daily use of the hydration gel, I still have plenty to use.

 For more info, click here.

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre

This creme is a cult favorite for many makeup artists. It can be used as a moisturizer which has been my prime use or it can be used as a primer for your makeup. That tube above is the second one I have purchased. I tried to use another daily moisturizer but powered through it so that I could purchase this one.

As you can see Embryolisse is a french brand and the beauty of using French skincare and makeup products is that they are much more regulated than American brands. Far less chemicals and unnecessary additives can be placed in their products. It has a lovely scent and feels light on the skin. In my case a little goes a long way so one tube will last you for roughly 4-6 months.  

For more info, click here.

Benefit It's Potent! Eye Cream

First and foremost I must give Benefit 5 stars for their branding. They make products that are so pretty you hate to place them in your drawers after each use. They deserve a little spot on your vanity, don't you think?

Cute packaging aside, this eye cream has been a wonderful addition to my nightly skincare routine. It is lightly scented and very creamy. A little goes a long way as I will tap the tip of my ring finger into the cream and can use what was picked up on both eyes. The packaging may be small but it will last you for ages. Case in point, I checked on my Sephora account and this item was purchased on 7/28/13. We are going on almost 1 full year later of using it every night! As you can see in the photo below I have now reached the end but have probably one month's use left. 

For more info, click here.

 

It may or may not be obvious that I have many other products in rotation but the above featured ones are my daily go to favorites. 

I hope you have found these recommendations to be helpful especially if you've been on the look out for a new cleanser or moisturizer.

I'll talk to you soon, friends...   xoxo bd

Life Lately

As I mentioned in my previous post, life lately has been busy and constantly changing. We made the decision about 6 weeks ago to move in with my in-laws for a few months to prioritize a few things such as saving up to purchase a home, a new couch, bed, washer/dryer, etc.  They were gracious enough to invite us in to stay for however long we would like. They live on a beautiful piece of property with a large porch and lush green grass. There are even a couple of too-darn-cute kitties by the names of Dot and Lillie that prance around quite a bit as well.  

The transition thus far has been nice and it is a happy and quiet place to come home to after a long work day. We are so grateful for their generosity.

But let’s be honest, I’m a girl on a mission to save up as much money as possible so that we can start a new chapter in our lives.  There are hopes and prayers for babies and a place to call our own.  With that said, below is our life lately:

Most photos above are from my updates on Instagram- follow along if you like!

Instagram.com/LovelyBDavis

We have already arrived at another weekend. I hope yours is filled with lots of sun and summer experiences.

I'll talk to you soon... xoxo bd

Breathe.

Oh, hi there. It has been all kinds of a hot minute since I posted in this little space of mine.

Its amazing how in a short period of time your life can change and 2014 has been filled with changes for this Davis family.

We've moved... and our life has been upside down along with many other things that have gone on with our families and their daily lives so needless to say I feel like we have major things to catch up on.

But I wanted to pop in, if only for a second, to say hi and to say that I miss you.

xoxo bd

First Day of Spring

As of noon today it will be the first day of Spring.

There have been some major changes in my life lately, and with the change of seasons it seemed only fitting that our lives would bring about change as well. One in particular is that my husband and I now work together. In fact, I am his personal assistant. 

I've received many mixed reactions about this change in our life, understandably so, but both of us know that this is exactly what was supposed to happen and where we are supposed to be.

Another change is that I am now the big 2-6; my birthday was on March 2nd. How did I already make it to my mid-twenties? I swear I was just celebrating my 19^th birthday. 

I came to realize that I am closer to 30 than I am 20 and for some reason that hit me hard. How in the world did these past few years fly by?

At the same time that Adam began working at our firm and I turned 26, our home got a complete makeover. My cousin, who is a decorator and furniture refinisher, came in from South Alabama to fully redo our home. {Happy Birthday to me!}  If you are interested in having a custom item made, check out her site, Becca!

 It has been so nice to fall in love with where we live and the pieces we have had. From custom made pillows and shower curtains to a newly redone desk, china cabinet and TV cabinet- our house is now a home.

Well let’s get real, we are renters and in a condo, but it feels like a home. It finally feels comfortable.

Okay friends, I hope that you are doing well and that you are celebrating this first day of spring with something special.

I’ll talk to you soon!

xoxo

BD

Valentine's Day Beauty

Truth be told I didn't have my first Valentine until I was 20 years old. Luckily my very first Valentine is the man I married. At the time we lived 3 hours away from each other so I traveled to see him for the weekend and he took me to the most quaint sushi restaurant in Memphis, Do. It was located in the Cooper-Young area of Midtown and had such a sweet setting inside. I will never forget how perfect that evening felt. 

Leading up to my trip I talked with my roommates about what I should wear, how my hair should look and what kind of make up to use. I thought long and hard about how perfect I was going to look for this date. I packed a pink floral cupcake dress that my roomie let me borrow and brought 6 inch heels so I could stun the man. I was ready to look hot! Funnily enough, after all of the stress and worry, he preferred the cream sweater dress and flats that I was already wearing. From that night on and throughout our marriage I have come to realize that Adam prefers me to look more like me. He doesn't want lots of makeup or high to the heavens hair sprayed locks- he loves when I am cute and girly and simple.

There is something to be said about big eyelashes and six inch heels, but the approach I want to share is the most classic of Valentines Day looks. 

H a i r: One of the best compliments I receive from my husband is when he holds me tightly and says how nice my hair smells. You want your hair to be soft and un-fussy. Redken's All Soft Shampoo will revive the most damaged hair.  Trust me. For extra softness, use a great hair mask to follow up your shampoo like the miracle worker by Macadamia.

M a k e u p: I believe every guy prefers to see your face, so apply the blush lightly and only a little lipgloss will do. You want to kiss him, don't you? I prefer palettes that have colors which are combined to compliment each other and soft neutrals look the most natural. The above palette by Laura Mercier is a total winner. The lipgloss by Nyx is creamy and gives a "my lips but better" hue.

S k i n: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and make sure to moisturize after your bath. It is great to choose a lotion or body butter that has a light scent so even if you're not into spritzing perfume, you will smell lovely from head to toe. Check out The Body Shop's nicely scented Body Butter in Grapefruit.

N a i l s: Being that you are keeping with a natural, ladylike beauty look, I suggest a clean and simple manicure. A guy will most likely not know what to do with Stiletto Nails and frankly might be a little scared. Again, go natural and treat yourself to a mani pedi with a beautiful light pink polish. So girly!

Enjoy your night out -or in- and treat yourself! 

xoxo bd

Products Mentioned:

 Hair Mask //  Shampoo //  Body Butter // Laura Mercier Eye & Cheek Palette // 

Essie Nail Polish  // Nyx Butter Gloss

Pretty In Pink

With Valentines Day just around the corner I have noticed everyone posting lovely photos of the varying shades of pink and here I am following the crowd. 

Growing up my favorite color was never pink, I was the girliest of little girls but would rather have a yellow room or a yellow dress, not pink. As I have gotten older I realized that I am more and more drawn to pink from my ipad case to the camel and pink color blocked purse I am currently carrying. *Honorable mention goes to my pink shower loofah*

Pink Tipped Matches // Pink & Camel  // Centerpiece

Fuschia Style // Je taime Deskop Wallpaper

I hope you're enjoying your weekend! I'll talk to you soon...

xoxo bd

Florals

With Spring approaching, I am finding myself seeking out and coming across florals of every distinction.

Truth be told there is nothing more typical than flowers at Springtime. You may recall a quote from Devil Wears Prada sarcastically noted by Miranda Priestly, “Florals in Spring, Groundbreaking.”. 

I understand that its not groundbreaking (even though it is in a flower’s nature to break the ground) as a spring trend, but flowers brighten the world. They remind us that there is beauty after a cold, grey winter. (Uh, hello, Polar Vortex anyone?)

A resolution I made this year was to bring more flowers into our home and look at me now- bringing flowers into my blogging home as well! 

I hope the images above bring you a little inspiration as well.

xoxo bd

The Perfect LBO

With the start of a brand new week I have found that I start off two different ways:

1. With a bang of enthusiasm or 2. Rushed and sloppy

An outfit can make or break your day and can aid in feeling put together. If you look great, you feel great.  When unsure about what to wear, a perfect little black outfit is always my go to choice,like the one above. From the office to drinks with friends, the perfect LBO is always appropriate. 

Take some more inspiration from these lovely ladies below:

I hope you're week is off to a great start. Happy Monday, lovelies!

xoxo bd

Perfect LBO Outfit Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4//

Nailed It // Mani of the Moment: Olivia Palermo

Today I wanted to spotlight one of my personal style icons, Olivia Palermo. There are a few  countless photos of her outfits that I have meticulously looked times for inspiration. I just love how she combines a classic aesthetic with fun and energetic accessories.  There is one accessory that she wears that couldn't be more classic, a red manicure. 

Truth be told,  I think we could all agree that the most iconic color for nail polish would be a great fire engine red.

You'll be pressed to find a street photo or even an ad that she has been in without that signature mani. From what I have read,her color of choice is Essie's Lollipop which I just so happen to be wearing on both my fingers and toes currently. In fact I owned that polish before having read that article...so basically we are twins and didn't even realize it. 

With that said, I think it's high time you sit down with a glass of wine (or coffee or water), put on a chic flick and give yourself an at home mani.

Talk to you soon...

xoxo bd

Buy the Nail Polish

Catching Up

Phew!We are now back from our week in East Tennessee for a trip with our family. It was so refreshing to wake up without an alarm and stay in cozy clothes until noon. My heart and body needed a rest from our usual busy schedule.

We got back in last night and lazed around, ate dinner and finished the first season of Dexter. We decided it was a good idea to "binge watch" the majority of the show the weekend before with a friend and have gotten sucked in. Its oddly addicting. 

Today we are back to getting chores taken care of like the necessary laundry and groceries. Oh lawd we were in need of groceries; there's not much you can do with natural peanut butter and rice milk egg nog. Really and truly, I tried.

I made an effort last night to grab my planner and utilize all of those pinned recipes that I tend to forget about. I've learned that if I take the time to plan our meals and write out all of the ingredients we will need for the week, we won't be left with the inevitable, "What do you want for dinner tonight?". It happens far too often than we would like. 

On another note: Recently I have been in talks with my cousin (whom I absolutely love) who has a new company that I will expand on in the near future. As she lives about 6 hours away we have ended up having FaceTime and texting sessions all about home decor. Her goal is to whip our little home into shape and she is oh so qualified for the job! She has impeccable taste. We are slowly beginning the process of working on each room. I think its about time I fall in love with where we live.

Time to close up shop and head out to a family dinner. Have a lovely Saturday, friends!

Talk to you soon,

xoxo bd

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year and New Beginnings! We have rung in 2014 with family in a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains. I am ready for what this year holds and am happy to close the chapter on 2013. 

xoxo 

bd