It’s the last week of the year and I’m feeling bright and happy about what’s to come in 2016. I’m grateful to have spent the past week with family and friends. It’s been both relaxing and invigorating and today’s outfit couldn’t express the way I’m currently feeling any better. The warm comfort of an old beanie that has been passed between me and my husband depending on who finds it first, and the electric yellow exuberance of this coat pretty much sum it up. I’m ready for 2016.

One of my favorite parts about the holiday season is getting together with friends for festive outings. So when my beautiful and stylish friend Lisa of Pretty Little Shoppers invited me to afternoon tea, I jumped at the chance.

We chose The Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills and from the moment we arrived, I knew we were in for a great afternoon. The hotel was beautifully decorated in red, green and gold and we were seated in the perfect location, overlooking the courtyard.

The tea came with two decadent trays of scones with jam, lemon curd, and clotted cream, finger sandwiches and seasonal desserts. We topped it off with a goblet of strawberries and cream and a glass of champagne.

Afterwards we decided to check out the grounds of the hotel and take a look at their holiday décor. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend The Peninsula’s afternoon tea. We had such a great time catching up and plan to make it a holiday tradition!

Photos by Amina Touray.

Vintage shopping is a different ballgame. While I’m no expert, I’m finding myself more and more interested in the art of the vintage find. Years ago I picked up this colorful blazer in pristine condition. What drew me to it was it’s Dick Tracy vibe – bold colors, a boxy 30’s silhouette and strong shoulders. It’s a difficult piece to style because of it’s strong statement, but this past weekend I stumbled upon these vintage Levi’s with modern distressing. I tend to shy away from overly distressed denim, but the fit and wash is exactly like the jeans my dad wore in the 80’s and 90’s. I couldn’t resist. I think I’m finally getting a hang of the vintage game.

Leather was all over the SS16 runways. I love that Banana Republic is getting a jumpstart on the trend with several leather pieces in their fall lineup. This hunter green tunic is so soft and buttery it can be worn cinched or loose. Paired with faux leather cropped trousers and reptilian wrap-up heels, it looks great at the office or out to play.