Two fall trends I'm super psyched about...

It's so haaarrrrd... to say goodbyyyyyeeee...

I absolutely love summer. To me, everything from the blazing hot sun, tan skin, slower pace and easy, breezy outfits is just divine. And even though I find fall beautiful as well, I have trouble letting go of my favorite season. Which is why I try to lean on another love, fashion, to get me excited about the change. Though I may shed a tear as I think about tucking away my flip flops and sundresses, I confess to being a smidge excited to break out my wedge booties, burgundy "leather" jacket (thank you Forever 21) and some Oxblood nail polish. I also love seeing what trends the fashion industry is pumping out at the start of a new season, in an attempt, as always, to convince us that what we wore last year is no longer cool and we need to replace and replenish. For this, I am a sucker... savvy (I like to think) but a sucker. But this year there are 2 looks I'm especially psyched to see in stores and 100% going to be investing in.

* Bell Bottoms & Flair Jeans

For hippies and everyone else!

I have always loved this style pant. As someone with a booty and thick-ass thighs (actual name) skinny jeans have never made me look... errr... skinny, but my beloved flares and bells certainly do. This trend is popping up everywhere and it's one every body type can pull off. Your best fit is going to be snug through the waist and thighs and then flared between the knee and mid-shin to whatever size "bell" you feel comfortable with. And unless you are a long-legged goddess, pop on a comfortable wedge or heel (which is covered by the bell) to create the illusion of longer-then-reality stems. Not sure about the trend? Start off with an inexpensive pair from somewhere like American Eagle (this place is actually my go-to for all jeans and I've rocked a great pair of flairs from here for years). Another perk of inexpensive options? You can buy more than one, at different lengths, to suit your different shoe heights:)

* T-Strap heels

I don't know why, but I love the throw-back, vintage-y look of t-strap shoes. As a high heel, a t-strap creates the illusion of a long and elegant foot and overall, the look manages to seem trendy and fashionable while still classic and mature. I spotted these lovely guys in the Nine West window a few weeks back and resisted the urge to buy them seeing as the last thing on the planet I need are more heels, but I'm still thinking about them and my resolve is weakening... 

Not sure about the t-strap? I'm seeing a whole lot of Mary Janes out there as well. Whatever your preference, this fall I think it's going to be all about the strap-on (hehe) heel. 

let's chat!

Pull up a chair!

Last night, as I thought about the posts I wanted to share on Seek to be Merry this week, I realized that it's been a little while since we've "talked" (and by talked, I obviously mean the typical Meri "I say what's on my mind and cross my fingers that somewhere, anywhere, someone is listening). 

Between Halloween, guest posts and goodies from the internet, I haven't had a moment to tell you about how I've been on an organizational rampage in my apartment (when you work from home a tidy home becomes a bit more of a priority), that I kinda love the new sitcom Blackish (is that ok given that I'm white-ish!?) or how I've embarked on an epic journey to find good "shape wear" (a tiny piece of my recent body image struggles which naturally come with (are the result of!?) a side of fries and several beers). I also need to tell you that Dr. H and I bought a new couch (it's "peacock" and he suggested that color choice!) and that turns out there is in fact a piece of Ikea furniture that's easy to assemble (THIS and we built it in legit 25 minutes!!) Lots of little, good things going on around here these days. What about you? How is you fall turing out to be!?

Doom and Gloom - Day 2

Autumn Rain

We're enduring a second straight day of grey skies, downpours and serious wind here in NYC and even though there's something a little romantic about puddles of colorful leaves everywhere, the romance kinda dissipates when the sideways rain soaks you and your umbrella becomes a parachute. Blegh. Since I'm feeling all doomy and gloomy today (the sun will come out tomorrow? I hope??) here are some smile worthy items from my beloved, -always there to distract me - world wide web. Stay dry my friends!!

How amazing and creepy but mostly amazing is this sculpture in Budapest!?

I freaking love a good pun!!! More HERE (thanks Sis!)

Animals dressed as other animals. YES.

If you buy one new thing this fall...

Get it girl!!!

... buy THIS sweater! Seriously. Buy it. After 2 weeks of aggressive browsing and window shopping (literally, I went in and out of stores, perused online sales and noted what I saw during my strolls through NYC) this weekend I went on a much anticipated fall/winter shopping adventure (God I love to shop! #IgotitfrommyMama). I have 3 outstanding purchases to tell you about, but the most important one is definitely the sweater:

In the 3 days that I have owned this magical piece of clothing from Anthropologie, I have already worn it twice and I can tell that I'm going to have to resist the urge to wear it every.single.day... or maybe I won't even bother... it's that comfy, cozy, warm, pretty, chic and faaabbbulous. On Saturday night I dressed the cape-esque sweater up with leather pants and wedges while on Sunday it was accompanied by army green khakis and my Toms. This sweater can do it all, so based on my "the more you use it the more worth the investment it is" philosophy, this sweater is a five star purchase!

Want a pair of adorable flats at an oh so adorably affordable price!? Want them in black or tan or pink or turquoise (or red or grey or fuchsia!?) I got you girl!! Check out the Steve Madden Heaven Patent Ballet Flat from DSW, currently priced at a wallet friendly $39.95. I am on my second pair of these flats, the first of which lasted 2 years (which I consider a home run for flats!). They are comfortable and dress up any outfit with their patent leather shine! 

Lastly, I must confess that I finally took the plunge yesterday and this Converse loving gal has finally purchased a seasonally chic pair of cute Vans. Much like my beloved Chucks, Vans run about $40-60 and are a stylish way to look cool but still be actually wearing sneakers! I went for THIS awesome pair currently being sold at J. Crew which were on sale over the weekend for $45 (so don't pay full price!). These will be a great alternative to my white Chucks and hopefully just as versatile and comfortable.

So now you know my fall must have(s). One chunky, cozy sweater and flats galore. What are you wearing that you couldn't live without these days!?

Hump Day Distractions

Hump Day Photobomb.

Another week, another Wednesday my friends. Here's new batch of distractions from around the web to get you through to the other side. Enjoy!

* Because you definitely need more rainbow-colored sheep in your life.

* Ziplock bags always make me feel super wasteful and un-eco-friendly. Perhaps THESE are a solution!?

* Some more fall fashion tips (including one awesome fall trend I definitely overlooked on Monday, hooray for hats!!!)

* This recipe is tailgate food perfection (or any time really... when isn't a good time for a mini hotdog!?).

* This story of a terminally ill 29-year old woman who is electing to end her own life is sad, touching and thought provoking. I encourage you to take a few minutes to learn about Brittany.

* Part of her wonderful "Motherhood Around the World" series, CupofJo asks Moms from other countries to comment on motherhood in America. The feedback is fascinating!

* I do love flamingos... 

* This is like joy overdrive.

Fall Fashion

Absolutely autumn chic.

This weekend's weather left no room for doubt that autumn has in fact arrived. Crisp air and chilly temps had everyone reaching for their closed toe shoes, leather jackets and pumpkin spice lattes which means it's about time that I chimed in on the latest fall trends! Here for your reading pleasure is a bit of what I'm seeing out there and how I feel about it.

* Ankle Boots

A bootie for all ankles....

Booties, booties, booties... if you have not already caved in to this trend, it's time to get on board because the ankle height boot which arrived last fall doesn't appear to be going anywhere! Whether you're considering a wedge or a heel, I think the key to rocking this trend is actually the height and shape of the top ankle side of the shoe. If you are not as leggy-inclined like myself, consider silhouettes that slope down or are lower in the front (HERE, HERE, HERE) to elongate your legs instead of something that cuts your legs off more squarely (HERE, HERE, HERE). And for a few helpful tips on how to handle cuffing your jeans with ankle boots, click HERE.

Merry Meri Verdict - There's a bootie out there for you. Find it and embrace the trend!

* Leather Accents

Add some edge with leather

One undeniable trend this fall is leather/pleather accents on all matter of clothing. I've seen it everywhere from Banana to Loft, from leggings to work dresses. A little leather is clearly the "it" fabric for this fall. I love this trend as a way to add some edge to an otherwise professional or casual look, but it's important not to go overboard. Stick to accents that pop your outfit up a notch (like this shirt or this shirt, this dress, or these leggings!) or go all the way with one leather piece (this skirt, these pants) and keep the rest of the outfit more understated.

Merry Meri Verdict - Get your leather on ladies!!

* Wrap Coats

Wrap it up!

This fall trend may have limited utility (once the chillier temps hit, having an open neck/belt-only coat may not be warm enough) but how cozy do those coats look?! For wrap coats, finding the right style at the right price point is probably key, and adding volume in a warm fall shade looks gorgeously chic. Some options at various price points HERE, HERE, HERE and of course my (unaffordable) favorite of the bunch HERE.

Merry Meri Verdict - Shop saavy, consider a bolder color, get it girl.

Other looks I love that seem to be sticking around from last year - layers and leggings, chambray shirts, utility jackets and big plaid scarves.

Hello October!

J'adore October.

I always have trouble with the transition from summer to fall, but by the time October rolls around I'm ready for some strolls in the crisp autumn air, pumpkin scented candles, leaf peeping, anniversary celebrating (3 years, can you believe it!?) and of course my beloved Halloween!! In honor of the start of one of my favorite months of the year, here are some tasty fall-inspired recipes for you to enjoy. Cheers to fall my friends!

Spiral Apple Bread with Caramel Apple Glaze. OOOO.MMMMM.GGGGGGeeee!!! 

Pin it HERE, full recipe HERE.

Nothing says fall like some homemade Corn Bread.
Full recipe HERE.

Soup is just about ready to re-emerge from the back of my pantry and recipe list. 

Check out this yummy Creamy Pumpkin Soup for a seasonally perfect meal.

Pin it HERE. Full recipe HERE.  

And because no season is complete without a thematic cocktail, I present the Caramel Apple Pie Martini!

Pin it HERE. Full Recipe HERE.

What I'm watching...

The end of September is here which means we can all stop watching re-runs and Netflix and the bottom of the barrel shows left on our DVR and focus on the new and returning shows about to re-stake their claim on primetime. HOORAY! Being the tv junkie that I am, I thought I'd give you a little Fall 2014 TV lineup. What are you watching!?

New shows that have caught my eye:

As we all know, August and September means seeing an influx of marketing for all the network's new shows. Some will be awesome, most will be cancelled. Here's a list of the shows that have caught my eye

* How to Get Away with Murder - ABC Thursday @ 10pm

Another drama from hit-maker Shonda Rhimes (Grey's Anatomy and Scandal), this show about a criminal law professor and her students has definitely grabbed my attention. The first episode (last Thurs. was good, but I'm not totally sold yet).

* A to Z - NBC Thursday @ 9:30pm

I'm always on the lookout for a decent 30 minute comedy (I miss you Office and 30 Rock!) so this uniquely structured romantic comedy about an entire relationship is definitely going to get a chance. 

* Manhattan Love Story - ABC Tuesday @ 8:30pm

This show gets a look purely because they've been filming it all over my neighborhood. The premise seems cute enough though, a budding romance in NYC with voiceovers sharing what's actually going on inside each characters mind. Let's see...

* Marry Me - ABC Tuesday @ 9pm

I love Ken Marion (since his Wet Hot American Summer Days) so this comedy featuring him and the show's writer's real life wife (Casey Wilson of Happy Endings, a show that never did much for me) is worth a shot. A couple in love but vexed with silly complications!? Maybe.

And coming back for another season...

* Parks and Recreation - Left us with a big jump forward in time at the end of last season. Excited to see what this season has in store.

* Parenthood - This is one of the better shows on tv that not nearly enough people are watching. Coming in for it's final season, this complex family drama is totally worth getting caught up on.

* Scandal - Though I worry that this show's schtick may be getting a bit tired, I'm not nearly ready to give up on Olivia and her band of gladiators.

* Nashville - A prime time soap opera with live country music, the mom from Friday Night Lights (love you Connie Britton) and a surprisingly impressive Hayden Panettiere... highly entertaining and a good filler for my otherwise available Wednesday night!

* New Girl - This show wavers for me, but when it's funny, it's really funny. The show is at its best when the ensemble feeds off one another, but especially scene stealing Nick and Schmidt. Watch for a laugh.

* Homeland - Enough said.

Wellness Week Day 2

Welcome Autumn!

How are we feeling today my merry friends? Are you with me on the road to a clearer mind (and full heart... can't lose!) Yesterday's mission of making an appointment is one and done on my end, and hopefully you too. Are you ready for our next Wellness Week task?

Wellness Week Day 2 - Clean up & Catch up

Two of the things that really make me feel out of sorts are when things get messy and when I feel out of touch with my loved ones. Thankfully accomplishing both of these things at the same time is totally doable and who doesn't love a lil multitasking!? So today, plug your cell into headphones (two hands free for maximum productivity!) and tidy up your closet while you call your mom... go to the grocery store and catch up with your girlfriend. Chatting with a loved one while doing these slightly less than glamorous tasks makes the chore go faster and your heart gets a friendly dose of lovin too.

Fall Funk.

Are you ready to un-funk with me!?

Lately I have been in a bit of a fall funk. Not the sad, mopey or grumpy type of funk (yes, there are various iterations of funk) more the lazy, unmotivated, can't force myself to do the things I'm usually able to get done, sort of funk. Each night it's the same thing - I could work out, but I could also put on sweatpants.... I could cook dinner, but I could also just order takeout... I could clean, organize, wash _______, but I could also NOT. Lately I've been opting for a whole lot of NOT.

And the crazy thing is that the more I roll around in my cozy little funk of non-productivity, the more willing I am to stay there. I mean, if I can't remember the last time I washed my sheets, what difference will 1 more night make? I can always go back to cooking and exercising tomorrow... So what's an obsessed-with-being-productive-girl to do? How are we going to de-funk from this epic episode of laziness? Lists and Moderation my friends. I believe any overwhelming task can be solved with a neat little list and manageable goals so this week I'm going to select 2 tasks per night that I've been avoiding and un-avoid them. Tonight I'm going to wash those damn sheets and tidy my closet (which underwent an emergency pipe fix last week that led to everything having to come out. BUMMER.) If I'm feeling wild and crazy I might even cook Dr. H dinner (but let's not get too carried away). With an organizing list and taking it 2 things at a time, I'm hoping that like most good-for-you activities, getting over the hump of starting will lead to the smug satisfaction of accomplishment that keeps the ball rolling. I mean it's Monday and the week is my oyster. Who's with me!?

31 Days of Halloween

Indeed.

October has arrived, my first batch of beloved candy corn has been purchased (and consumed) and my Pinterest feed is bursting with seasonal inspiration... Halloween, my friends, is nearly here!! Which got me to thinking - you peeps seem to LOVE all things autumn and Halloweeny just as much as I do, so why should Christmas be the only holiday with a whole month-long calendar's worth of fun!? Today Seek to be Merry is officially kicking off the 31 days of Halloween, a month-long orange, black, costumed and pumpkin spiced celebration of my most favorite holiday (July 4th is a close second:) Each day, in addition to my regular posting, I will share a seasonal goody with you, everything from decor ideas to recipes and costume inspiration. It will be boo-tiful:) And since today is technically the 3rd day of 31, no tricks, just 3 treats to kick off our month!!! 

Trick or Treat!!

Since your front door plays such an important part in all the Halloween festivities, why not get it dolled up for the occasion!? Last year I suggested THIS mummified version, but if something a bit more monstrous is your preference, here's how to get the look courtesy of Parents.com.

Snap, crackle, boo!!!

A seasonal sweet treat that's beyond easy to make in bulk? Yes please! These pumpkin rice krispie treats (with tootsie roll stems!) via Food, Family and Friends are perfect for Halloween parties of all ages and will be sure to score smiles.

Everything's coming up roses!

How awesomely adorable is this costume?! Ladies, 1 quick trip to your local craft store (and possibly also home depot for the plastic planter) and you're ready to go. All you have to do is cut out the bottom of a large plastic pot, affix two thick straps (I'd use a staple gun and something rubbery and durable like a theraband) and go crazy with the fake flowers and glue gun. Add a floral hairband for an extra ounce of awesome!

Tick tock tick tock...

Hug it out.

I am literally watching the clock today. I check it just about every 15 minutes... I am 193% (official count) ready for a crisp fall weekend out and about in my most favorite city. Got some girl friend plans, tickets to a sa-weeeet outdoor concert and a trip to Chinatown for some dim sum all on the agenda. Hellz yes. But...

...before you leave, you must click HERE.

Also, I dare you not to completely melt reading every single one of THESE. (via Peppermint Bliss!)
Here's the reason I will never purchase Barilla pasta again.

So true. SO true.

"Feed Your Football Face" Recipe of the Week: Mini Loaded Potato Footballs*

* brought to you by The Curvy Carrot

Are you SERIOUS!? I mean it doesn't get much easier, or much event-specific-perfect than these mini football-esque treats.

Ingredients
20 small red potatoes
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings:  sour cream, cheese, chives, vegetarian bacon, etc.

Instructions1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, olive oil and salt together until coated thoroughly.
3. Place the potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet, bake for 20 minutes or until soft.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Once cool enough to touch, cut a small slit in the top of each potato and gently scoop out a small portion of the flesh, discarding it.
6. Top each potato with your desired toppings and serve while still warm.  (*I used a small piping bag fitted with a tiny pastry tip and piped sour cream directly into each potato for simplicity and ease.)

Click HERE for the full recipe post or HERE to pin on Pinterest.

Hump Day Distractions

Did ya catch that?

Hello crisp fall Wednesday, thank you for reminding me that this is a time of year when no matter how I get dressed in the morning, I will be either too hot or too cold, always in search of Goldilocks' elusive "just right". (Am I the only one that finds getting dressed in early fall and early spring impossible!?) While I attempt to shed layers and regulate my temperature, here are some delightful distractions from around the web for you. Enjoy!

* Completely unnecessary yet totally freaking awesome.

* A truly hysterical voicemail (gets especially good starting at :45)

* Some super handy info about storing your fruits and veggies for maximum freshness.

* Rad street art.

* I'm totally dating myself with this link, but you know you'd have followed Cher (from Clueless) on Instagram!

* The nature girl in me says "I want to go to THERE".

* You know what's torture on day 3 of a juice cleanse? THIS mac cheese insanity spotted on Pinterest (direct link HERE) I'm so ready for my return to solids:)

* For those of you with a black tie affair coming up and $7,000 to spare. So glam.

* These two are pretty freakin adorable together

* Yes, yes I desperately want to know the back story behind each of THESE.

Fall into a few new things...

Killer fall look

Yesterday Mom, Sis and I ventured to the Tanger Outlets in Riverhead, Long Island. 5.5 hours and 1 entire trunk full of purchases later (we don't mess around!) I think I am ready to talk Fall 2013 fashion (click HERE for Fall 2012). Just like last year, I'll try to focus on balancing the "need it now" with "use it always" and even have a few "on a budget" suggestions for your shopping enjoyment!

* Chambray & Plaid (the more the better)

90s chic

Are you ready to regret everything you threw out after 1999? Denim shirts ("chambray") and plaid flannels appear to be back with avengeance and everything I've seen in magazines and stores indicates that all combinations (tucked in and under a blazer for work!?) and colors (are we really doing denim on denim!?) are fair game. It looks like every store under the sun is carrying these fall staples (from Forever 21 to Gap and Bloomingdales) so you shouldn't have any problem finding one at your preferred price point.

* Colored Jeans (the "fall palette")

Images HERE HERE & HERE

I am absolutely thrilled to see the trend of colored pants continuing to rock retail and for this fall it seems that "fall shades" like burgundy, mustard, and evergreen are all the rage. A nice update from mint green and bold blue, these rich, almost regal colors can be professional or Sunday brunch fresh. It's also great that every "basic" color from grey, black and white to brown, peach or navy all serve as a perfect "up top" compliment. 

Budget Suggestions: Ann Taylor Loft, H&M
Splurge(ish): J Crew, NYMJ 

* Ankle Booties

AE.com surprise find!

Even though ankle height booties have been fashionable for some time, this season they (along with fyi, the "opposite end of the spectrum" above the knee boots) seem particularly popular for fall (must be all those colorful skinny jeans). Though I'd resisted the trend in the past for fear of having stumpy-cut-at-the-ankle legs, I tried on the cute pair above and had an immediate change of heart. Whether in classic black or brown or a more adventurous print or suede, invest in some ankle booties and never worry about thick calves not fitting in boots again!

Budget Suggestions: American Eagle, Aldo, Forever 21, Payless

Splurge: everywhere else!

* Leather anything

Images HERE HERE & HERE

Last month when I splurged on a faux leather cocktail dress, I should have seen the trend coming, but now that fall is here, there's no denying that leather everything is a trend of the moment. Whether full apparel pieces (like pants or dresses) or as accents (like pockets or stripes), leather or faux will take you from fall all the way through winter in style.

Budget Suggestions: H&M, TopShop, Forever 21

Splurge: Michael Kors, Anthropologie, Vince

* Sticking around: Back from seasons past and still going strong are Peter Pan collars,  leggings as pants and classic trench coats. Also still seeing a lot of overalls (blllegh) and polka dots (yay!)

And if you'd like to check out what the pros are saying is hot for fall, click HERE and HERE

Wishlisting

Sultry for September

As seems to be "the way of things" on Pinterest, with the shift from summer to fall has come a deluge of new outfit images filled with this season's trends and gorgeous (see also: unaffordable) designer pieces. But even when the look is outside my budget...

Loeffler Randall Quinnie
 $295 via Zappos Couture

Burberry leather trim blanket wrap jacket
Price unknown (never a good sign)

I still allow myself to lust after the items...

Freda Salvador - $365

Sweater, sunnies, purse. I want it all.

I mean, how else am I going to find us the best off-brand copies!? When I find them, I will share.... (after I've purchased my own of course:) 

Nailed it.

A rainbow of options

I am a nail polish addict. I loathe going more than a day without color on both my fingers and toes whether I polish them myself (I have quite the colorful collection) or venture out for a mani/pedi by professionals (if you're in NYC, Il Villaggio downtown is my jam!) As I mentioned once before, I am totally into the latest trend of bold and funky nail designs, but there's also something elegant and chic about a solid gorgeous palate on all 10 digits. Even though I'm not ready to think about fall apparel or accessories (*shudder*), I think I can stomach talking nails, so here for your toesies and fingertips is some inspiration for the months ahead.

This funky design could be a perfect pop for the wedding I'm attending this October.

I love this rich and sassy shade of red ("Oxblood" by Essie) for everyday wear in the fall.

Starry Starry Night by Essie. Another stunning dark color perfect for a fancy occasion. 

I've done the glittered tips before and gotten a ton of compliments. 

I think this combo could be a perfect way to kick up to classic grey polish for fall.

Ombre doesn't have to be reserved for your hair. Hopefully you have a very patient nail salon and can convince them to take this trend for a spin! (Pictured: Essie colors "To Buy or Not To Buy", "Bikini so Teeny", "Smooth Sailing", "Mezmerised", & "Midnight Cami".)

I don't think I've ever seen "chrome" or "mirrored" polish at my nail place before, 

but I'm determined to take it for a test drive this fall.

Nail color tip: I am always struggling to remember the ridiculous names of the colors I love. To help stay organized, I snap a picture of my post-manicure hands holding the bottle, name-side facing up, and keep the images in a folder on my phone. When I want to repeat (or stay away) from a past color choice, all I have to do is check my lil nail gallery for the name:)