OLD FASHIONED FUN

Sip of Southern is back, y'all! Although I can't imbibe until the biscuit finishes baking, I do have a very enthusiastic taste tester in Mr. Sizemore. Therefore, expect this series to be pretty bourbon heavy for the next few weeks. First up: The Old Fashioned.

The Old Fashioned is thought to have originated at the Pendennis Club, a gentleman's establishment in Louisville, Kentucky. Invented by a bartender in the club, it made it's way to New York City and was popularized at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel bar.

Old Fashioned

2 oz Kentucky bourbon

2 dashes Angostura bitters

One sugar cube

Orange Peel

Ice cubes

Tools: muddler, barspoon

Glass: old fashioned

 

On a cocktail napkin, shake 2 dashes of bitters onto sugar cube. Add bitter soaked cube and orange peel to glass and muddle. Pour bourbon and stir. Add ice cubes and stir again.

SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP

I'm gearing up for a weekend of shopping! Granted, it's a weekend of babyfriend shopping, but nevertheless, money will be spent. When I hit the shops I like to dress comfortably, but appropriately. I always like to look my best because who wants to try on clothes without finished hair and makeup? I never shop in heels and I try to wear something comfortable and easy to slip in and out of quickly. The same goes for accessories; don't over accessorize to cut down on changing time.

On to the outfit! I'm pretty obsessed with all of these pieces. The blouse is super cool and comfy; I love the print and small pops of color. It pairs well with these preppy scalloped shorts in classic khaki. A shoulder or crossbody bag is ideal for a marathon spree. It frees up your arms to carry all of your purchases. This faux leather bag is perfect in Coral. Just add some snakeskin print flats with gold stud accents, funky cuff, simple studs and you're set to shop! Happy Weekend, y'all!

No.1; No.2; No.3; No.4; No.5; No.6

JAZZ IT UP

Happy Jazz Fest, folks! Today begins the New Orleans Jazz Fest which will be going on in the Crescent City until May 6th. If you're unable to make it down to the Big Easy, press play for Rebirth Brass Band. Guaranteed to put you in a good mood!

GOING COASTAL

Since my sweet baby boy won't be born in the South [she says as she clutches her pearls], I really wanted to create a nursery space not only to make me feel at home, but to surround him with the best the summer coast has to offer. Mr. Sizemore and I are marsh people. We both adore the smell of plough mud and sea grass and love to look out on the Intracoastal Waterway. Not one for baby-ish decor, I referenced my love of the marshland, as well as to the style of a sun kissed, Southern gentleman, for my inspiration. The color palette was established from Madras print and includes navy, red, white, mustard, emerald and touches of wood.

No.1; No.2; No.3; No.4; No.5; No.6; No.7; No.8; No.9

OTHERWISE ENGAGED

Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but not all girls want a traditional diamond engagement ring. Pretty solitaires set in gold or platinum are lovely and will always be in style. If, however, you prefer your engagement ring to reflect your personal taste [something of the utmost importance to me when Mr. Sizemore and I were selecting my engagement ring], then look no further than these stunners for your inspiration. I am dying over the Monique Pean champagne trillion cut solitaire set in rose gold; What an inspired take on tradition. For all of you Earth Mamas out there, check out the raw diamonds from Todd Reed. Very cool and very sustainable. Lastly, the gorgeous pink tourmaline from Cathy Waterman is super romantic. Who could ever say "no" to that?  

No.'s 1 through 5 may be found at Barneys New York. No.6 may be found at Todd Reed.