A Touch of Southern Grace : February 2013

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Blooming Into Spring

Here in the South the buttercups are out, the red bud trees are budding, and flowers are blooming! I realize for those of you who aren’t from the South this news may surprise you, but spring is already making its presence known, even before it gets here. I would really love for it to snow at least once before winter is officially over, but in the South you just have to take the weather as it comes. Besides who doesn’t love beautiful flowers, and if Mother Nature wants to bring a hint of spring early, why not? There is nothing better then some fresh cut flowers from your garden to accent the interior of your house! Although the flowers aren't in full bloom yet and some not at all, here are some gorgeous flowers Southerners love!

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Happy Birthday Elizabeth Taylor

I love old Hollywood movie stars, and have decided to dedicate a post to them on their birthday this year. What better old Hollywood movie star to start with then Elizabeth Taylor! Marilyn Monroe may have sung the song "Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend” but no one exemplifies that song more then Elizabeth Taylor!

Elizabeth Taylor entered the world of acting as a child star with MGM and became one of the greatest screen actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Throughout her life, Liz Taylor became known for her acting ability, glamorous lifestyle, marriages, jewelry collection, and of course her unforgettable violet eyes.

Along with her movie success, to name a few: National Velvet, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Cleopatra, BUtterfield 8, and many other movies, she also devoted her time to charity work. One of her best-known contributions would probably be serving as the co-founder of the American Foundation for AIDS Research and the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.

Elizabeth Taylor lived life to the fullest and left behind an unforgettable legacy. As she once said so herself “I’ve been through it all, baby, I’m mother courage”.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

A Night At The Oscars

The Oscars, as far as my knowledge goes, has always been perceived as one of the most glamorous nights in Hollywood. Although it’s fun to see who wins an Oscar, my favorite part of the festivities is watching the red carpet. There are always at least two memorable Oscar dresses, the best and the worst. I though it might be fun to share in my opinion the top five best 2013 Oscar dresses!

Jennifer in a Dior Dress

Anne Hathaway in a Prada Dress

Jessica Chastain in an Armani Dress

Amanda Seyfried in a McQueen Dress

Amy Adams in a dress by Giambattista Valli

Monday, February 25, 2013

Dream Closet

One day I would love to have a really elegant closet that is spacious; after all what girl doesn’t want a beautiful closet. Besides, every Southern Belle needs a reasonably sized closet to keep their debutant dresses, wedding dress, special occasion dress, and anything else you want to throw in that closet! Don’t forget the flowers, mirrors, and chandelier when you finally get you dream closet! Here are a few closets I found that I am a little envious of:

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Twinkle Toes & Ballet Flats

The design inspiration for ballet flats was ballet slippers that dancers wear. Ballet flats are a truly timeless style! As spring approaches in the South, more and more are starting to wear their ballet flats as every Southern Belle owns at least one pair. They are stylish, feminine and look fabulous with virtually anything! I have to admit I have already started wearing my ballet flats…they are great shoes after all. To tempt you, here are my favorite ballet flat picks for the spring season! Click on the name of the shoe for the link.

Jimmy Choo Whirl Ballet Flat

Tory Burch Lizard Printed Reva Ballet Flat

J.Crew Scalloped Ballet Flats

Ted Baker London 'Charee' Ballet Flat

Stuart Weitzman Nubeads

Banana Republic Alana Bow Ballet Flat

Of course I have to give a nod to the original trend setter of the ballet flat, Audrey Hepburn!

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Pink Lemonade

As y’all might have guessed, Southerners love lemonade! My personal favorite is Pink Lemonade, after all it taste great and who can refuse a pink drink! A few of you might be shocked to learn that you can make so many wonderful treats using, you guessed it, Pink Lemonade. Here are a few Pink Lemonade treats that y’all will simply fall in love with! Click on the name of the treat for the recipe.

Pink Lemonade

Pink Lemonade Cupcakes with Pink Lemonade Buttercream

Pink Lemonade Granita

Pink Lemonade Champagne

Pink Lemonade Cake

Pink Lemonade Sherbet Party Punch

Friday, February 22, 2013

Happy Hour Time

I am so happy to be able to tell y’all that it is Friday again! We all know what Friday means, Happy Hour Time! Let’s celebrate the most wonderful day of the week with a drink to kickoff the weekend!

“I avoid looking back. I prefer good memories to regrets”

~ Grace Kelly

Drink Special!

Queen Bee
¾ ounce honey

¾ ounce lemon juice

¾ ounce pineapple juice

1 ½ ounces vodka

¾ ounce St. Germain elderflower liquor

Ice cubes

Splash of prosecco or other sparkling dry white wine

Whisk the honey with the lemon juice and pineapple juice until it dissolves. Shake vigorously with vodka, St. Germain, and ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with a splash of prosecco.

Around Town!

Nashville, TN: Wine & Dine at Bound’ry Restaurant, Saturday, February 23, 8:00pm

Dallas, TX: Silent Disco at Zouk Dallas, Saturday, February 23, 10:00pm

Atlanta, GA: DJ Dainjazone and Q of LMFAO’s Party Rock Crew at GOLD ROOM, Saturday, February 23, 10:00pm

Nashville, TN: Oscar Experience at Belcourt Theatre, Sunday, February 24, 5:30pm

Marlinton, WV: Opry Night at Pocahontas County Opera House, Saturday, February 23, 7:30pm

Thursday, February 21, 2013

High Fashion

I have a weak spot for fashion, style and beautiful things. I love pretty much anything Valentino designs, his apparel, accessories, and shoes are absolutely breathtaking' and the bows he adds to some of his designs are the icing on the cake! A southern girl knows what's in style and what's not, and has at least a few favorite designers. I came across some photos of the Valentino Spring/Summer 2013 Collection from various fashion shows, and just had to share them with y’all!