Pantone 2014 Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid

Pantone has made its annual pronouncement for the 2014 Color of the Year. And the winner is...

Radiant Orchid

A hybrid purple-pink (which, in some color families, may also be known as fuchsia), this color is a bit hard to pin down. It may err on the side of either pink or purple, but it is really a vibrant mix of the two. And I do not own a single item in this color! It would seem Pantone is telling me this is an issue that needs correcting. So, in honor of the impending new year, I've put together an inspiration board of pieces that would be worth adding to my ensemble featuring this lovely color. It's interesting to note how the hues of the below products are named by their respective manufacturers... some creative color distinctions out there!


Clockwise from top left:

Leatherbound 2014 Planner by Gallery Leather (Honeysuckle)
I love notebooks and journals and all manner of writing materials. Even though I keep up with my calendar on my phone as well, I love having a hand-written planner to carry with me and make notations about day-to-day scheduling. This color would be perfect for my 2014 datebook!

Smith & Hawken Orchid Scent Candle 
I love lighting scented candles in the house for a bit of atmosphere, and this orchid scent would be the perfect way to introduce a lighter scent in anticipation of spring!

Nine West Vintage America Collection Nomad Large Satchel (Plum)
I'm a saddlebag kind of gal. I like to have enough room to fit everything I need, plus some extra. And now that I have baby paraphernalia to tote along as well, this purse is large enough to double as a diaper bag. And it's on sale!

Geometric Print Infinity Scarf (Pink)
A good scarf can really pull an outfit together. I love the rich color of this scarf, and the geometric metallic pattern is a fun addition. Pairing a single bright accessory with dark jeans and a plain neutral tee is a great way to make a simple outfit shine. Check out how Emma Roberts makes it work or like this.

Women's Italian Lambskin Lined Leather Gloves (Fuchsia)
Leather gloves lined with lambskin? Pure luxury! And these come in a variety of colors, including a shade of Radiant Orchid!

Essie 'Big Spender' Nail Color
I rarely have my fingernails painted, but I do love a pretty color on my toenails. This color from Essie will be fun for the gray months of winter and into early spring.

Mossimo Supply Co. Boyfriend Cardigan - Rose Bonnet 
A colored cardigan goes a long way toward freshening up classic wardrobe pieces. Pair this with a black or navy skirt, a pair of dark jeans or patterned pants -- the color speaks for itself! Leave it open for a casual look, or button and belt at the waist for something more pulled together. Love how it looks with this polka dot button-down!

Vince Camuto Suede Cynthea Pumps - Deep Fuschia
Last but not least, some stellar pumps! These would be a hot stand-out accessory for any outfit. I'm thinking these will fancy up dress I'm planning to wear to a wedding in January... and that price isn't bad either!

I've added all these pieces to a new board on Pinterest so I can keep track if this trend for 2014. Orchid is IN!

New Mom Essentials

The past couple weeks have been quite an adjustment period, but I am loving new motherhood and getting to know this sweet baby boy. Having my mother around to help during this time has been such a gift, and surviving without her is going to be tough! She and my father left on a flight back to Georgia this past Sunday, and I know the memories of their visit to meet this first grandson are going to be so special to think back on in the coming months. I am blessed with some pretty stellar parents!

In addition to the love and support of family and friends during this time (for which we are so grateful!), there are also a few inanimate objects that have been pivotal in helping me survive these newly-sleepless nights and baby-focused days. Some of these may seem a little silly, but it really is the small things that make life a little easier sometimes...

1. Lululemon Astro Pant
My mother-in-law bought these for me when I realized in the hospital that the only pair of pants I had were the ones I was wearing when I went into labor (and hadn't properly packed my hospital bag). She ran out and picked these up, and they have basically have not left my body since then (I have washed them... once or twice). They are so comfortable and the criss-cross waistband is perfect for sucking in the postpartum belly.

2. Bravado Original Nursing Bra
A good nursing bra is key. I picked one up about a week after birth when my "ladies" were so engorged that the very thought of an underwire bra was painful. This wireless version is comfortable and easy to snap on-/off.

3. CoverGirl BB Cream
Needless to say, I'm not wearing a lot of make-up these days... But when I want to not look like I haven't sleep in weeks, this foundation/moisturizer combo is the perfect sheer cover-up. Add a little mascara, and it's just enough to make me feel not hideous.

4.  Half-Caf Coffee
Oh caffeine, how I've missed thee. I'm still trying to limit my caffeine intake after 9 months of decaf, but that extra caf in my cup these days makes mornings a little easier. I've actually made my own mix by combining a bag of regular Dunkin Donuts with a bag decaf, but this pre-mixed Folgers would work just as well.

5. iPhone Apps (and technology in general)
Seriously, what would we do without technology? That's a hypothetical question...I know there are plenty of great things to do that are 100% tech-free. But, it really does make life easier sometimes. The Baby Log app that I downloaded when we left the hospital has been my brain when it comes to feeding and changing the little guy. Adapting to breastfeeding has been a little tough, so this tool has been very helpful in tracking. And my Kindle app is perfect for reading during those late-night/early morning nursing sessions!

6. Scented Holiday Candles
I committed to going decoration-free this Christmas, which is a little sad, but I didn't want to feel completely out of the holiday spirit and these scented candles have made all the difference. We might not have a live tree this year, but the smell of evergreen still permeates the air!

7. Holiday Mint M&Ms
These were a treat my mother picked up during her visit and I'm sad to say they are all gone now. But they were very tasty and another fun way to enjoy the Christmas season. I don't normally sit around eating M&Ms, but a little indulgence every one in a while can't hurt, right? New moms deserve a little break. :)

3 weeks

My little guy is growing so fast! Can't believe it's been three whole weeks since Cormac entered this world, and what fun it has been! New parenthood has certainly been an adjustment, but it gets easier with each passing day and I'm trying to appreciate each precious moment as it comes. I know it will go by all too quickly...

My favorite Christmas present this year