Author: jillontoast

The Ten Commandments of Etiquette: Keepin’ It Classy Los Angeles.

~ jillontoast ~ 7 Comments

Etiquitte

A common theme that seems to be running through this week: When we meet someone, whether its just for a moment or for a lasting friendship, we leave an impression. Make it a good one.

I’m talking beyond dress and attitude here. There’s some letter circulating on Facebook discussing this man’s run in with a young woman who happened to save his life just because she spoke to him. The sequence of events had deterred him from his plans of suicide, and pushed him to live a long wonderful life.

It sounds so easy, but we take for granted how much we can affect each other. Just opening a door for someone or complimenting something as seemingly insignificant as their socks may be the one thing that changes their outlook from bad to good, or good to great, and in some cases from suicidal to life-loving. It sounds crazy but its so true.

I always think of Carol Burnett as Mrs. Hannigan as the antitheses of leaving a good impression. When in doubt, ask yourself what she would do, and then do the opposite.

Here are my ten commandments of etiquette, in ascending order of importance. I feel these are great guidelines to staying classy and leaving good impressions:

10.  Never divorce the salt and pepper. Always pass them together. Learned this in sorority and it just stuck.

9.  Don’t ever use the phrase “you guys”. I learned this as a child while visiting family friend, Dutchesses Stefanie and Gabriela Von Pfetten of Vancouver. So this “rule” came directly from Royalty. 

8.  Don’t chew gum in public. Grandma.

7.  Belief is half of being. Believe you already are who you want to be, and you soon will become. AKA Dress for the job you want, not for the one you have. AKA Its usually better to be over dressed than underdressed. AKA Think thin, it helps keep you from over eating. This actually works!

6.  Always smile upon entering a room and/or greeting someone. It relaxes others and lifts the features of the face.

Love.
Love. Photo from Pinterest.
Smiles are infectious and an easy gift to give. My father taught me that smiles are the best way to make someone's day. I miss his smile.
 My father taught me that smiles are the best way to make someone’s day. They are infectious and an easy gift to give. I miss my father’s smile. Photo: Danny DiVito from Pinterest.

5.  Youth is a gift. Don’t loose yours. Stay young at heart.

4. “Don’t mind the little things”.  I learned this from La Femme Nikkita and my best friend, Charlotte. Pick your battles wisely. In the heat of the moment, smile and take a deep breath. Remind yourself you probably have more class in your pinky fingernail than whoever angered you has in their entire being. Repeat this mantra in your mind as you excuse yourself with polite banter; “I never did mind the little things. Excuse me.” Exit. You can plot your revenge later, in private ;).

3. Continue your education. Always find new things to learn; a new language, art form, anything. This will feed your soul, deter you from provinciality, and help you to understand other cultures. With knowledge comes understanding. Understanding acceptance. All which leads to kindness. 

2.  If you have nothing nice to say, stay quiet. Write it down later in your journal and then lock that baby up.

1.  Do onto others as you would do onto yourself- but be even nicer, we are our own worst critics. 

Who knows how much this moment helped the little boy. It could have inspired him in so many ways.
Who knows how much this moment helped the little boy. It could have inspired him in so many ways. Photo from Pinterest.

If you see an opportunity to help someone, take it. Put a little heaven on earth. Not just today. Every day. If we all followed that- wouldn’t this world be a nicer place? 

Click here to see a list of ideas on how to pay it forward: 40 acts of kindness

All this is just food for thought (as I pig out on Ferrero Roche Chocolates that someone brought into work today. WHY?????)

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Summer in Fall: What to wear when the calendar says “Autumn” but the weather says “Summer”

~ jillontoast ~ Leave a comment
Nothing says Autumn like a spiced apple cider with a side of apple fritter.
Nothing says Autumn like a spiced apple cider with a side of apple fritter.

For some reason, as the autumn wind gracefully escorts the salty scent of summer into the horizon, two things have been on my mind. 1. If I could bring anyone back from the dead, this week it would be Michael Jackson (I mean his music is just really universally good. I’m curious what else he would compose). 2. How the heck do you dress for these first month of “fall” in LA?

Orange County/Lantern Bay Park in the Autumn. Its hard to find those beautiful fall colors in LA, but they are in the sunsets year-round.
Orange County/Lantern Bay Park in the Autumn. Its hard to find those beautiful fall colors in LA, but they are in the sunsets year-round.

The vibe of the whole city is definitely Autumn. The Santa Ana Winds bring with them that je nais se quoi that is Fall. School busses lace the early morning freeways and one can sense the days shortening. The smell of Halloween is just around the corner. There’s just one problem. Its 102 degrees in the Valley and 97 at the Beach. Every year this confuses me.

In the Northern hemisphere the hottest months are supposed to occur during the Summer- late June-August, cooling off with the Autumnal Equinox (late September). So WHY is it so hot NOW instead of then?? OR, if the hottest months are actually supposed to be Sept through November then WHY is fall fashion full of hot boots, cashmere sweaters, and layers?? Are we supposed to wear shorts, tanks, rompers, and sundresses well into November here? I mean believe me, I am NOT complaining. I absolutely adore summer and the clothing that comes with it. But when I smell cinnamon in the air and the nights descend upon us at 5pm, my biological clock is telling me a. to eat apple fritters, and b. to pull out my favorite sweater. When does fall fashion really start to get its moment in Los Angeles?? I’m totally confused. Its technically fall, but the weather is screaming for summer clothes.  Whats appropriate?

Danielle says that in these situations its best to wear the summer outfits with booties and maybe a thin sweater for nighttime, in case the air gets a bit chilly. Also trading in some  pastel items for jewel tones or autumn tones if you can pull off burnt orange and khaki (not everyone can). Light weight midi skirts can work wonders in the heat.

Here are some examples I found on Pinterest:

Even though this outfit is all white, paired with the grey booties brings a little fall into the mix. The sweater is so light weight, its probably fine in the heat and still helps in the overly air-conditioned office.
Even though an all white outfit usually screams “summer”, pairing it with these little grey booties  brings “fall” into the mix. The sweater is so light weight, its probably fine in the heat and still helps in the overly air-conditioned office.
Opposing the all white ensemble above, this all black ensemble is the perfect combo for Summer in Fall. Its a perfect example. Love.
Opposing the all white ensemble above, this all black ensemble is the perfect combo for “Summer in Fall” Short sleeved top and light weight midi skirt. Its an excellent example. Love.
Here Vanessa Hudgens dones and impeccable
Here Vanessa Hudgens dones an impeccable “Summer in Fall” outfit. The cool and breezy lace top paired with an autumn colored skirt and black booties- Tres Bien. 
Another great example of a lightweight midi skirt with a loosely fit short sleeved top.
Another great example of a lightweight midi skirt with a loosely fit short sleeved top. I love how her shoes are almost boots. Enough open space for air flow in this heat, but still look perfectly autumn. 
Maybe this outfit that I wore in France last year could work great as a potential
Maybe this outfit that I wore in France last year could work great as a potential “summer in fall” ensemble? Sans jacket its just a comfy crisp white T with a lightweight midi skirt and sandals. I’m starting to catch on.

If anyone out there is reading this, what are your thoughts on this subject?

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Back to the future. Literally.

~ jillontoast ~ 4 Comments
Midwest summers were a magical time for me. Hot humid days with an underscore of crickets and refreshing evenings lit by fireflies. No obstacles to deter my unbounded imagination.
 Midwest summers were a magical time for me. Hot humid days with an underscore of crickets and refreshing evenings lit by fireflies. No obstacles to deter my unbounded imagination.

This year, 2015, marks the 30th anniversary of one of my all time favorite films, Back To The Future. I remember the first time I ever saw the movie. My best friend Charlotte and I spent all day swimming and playing at the Oakwood Country Club. We started by laying out poolside, dousing ourselves with Bain De Soliel #4. We had lunch at the “Snack Bar”. Followed by 40 minutes or so of watching MTV for an air conditioned break in the club’s “Living Room”. Then more lounging poolside, including many moments of jumping in the water and splashing around while talking. Ahhh life as a youngster was so great.  Around 5 PM my mom asked if we would  like her to drop us off at a movie. That’s when we decided to see Back to the Future.

I’ve always enjoyed movies, but Back To The Future is particularly special to me. It was after that night I concocted this cockamamie idea that I would one day move to LA and mary Michael J Fox. Hahaha.  But it wasn’t just  a crush on him. The movie was so well done that I call the viewing date a “red letter date” in my history (to quote doc brown). I had been transported into another world and lived an adventure that normally couldn’t have been lived (I think this happens more easily for us overly-empathetic folk).  The seed had been planted. I knew I wanted to somehow be involved in making films like these. Films that offer an escape, inspiration, education, and most importantly, Magic.
BTTF3

Last Saturday night the Michael J. Fox foundation and Cinespia  (one of my favorite summer activities- outside air and movies?! I mean can it get any better??) joined forces to throw a benefit double feature screening of  Back To The Future and its sequel, Back to the future 2 (don’t get me started on that one :P). There was no way I was missing out on this.

Cinespia2
Ventura Spirits is an LA based company that distills unique foods into Vodka. At this event, specialty drinks were made with vodka distilled from strawberries. It was very sweet. I actually preferred the 1.21 Gigawatts drink- somewhat like a moscow mule, but less sweet. But I love how this company makes creative vodkas :).

The whole night was like being transported back to 1985. It was our own journey of time travel 🙂 and it was SO MUCH FUN. The DJ was awesome. On the lawn we bumped into old friends and work colleagues. We danced to songs from the movie soundtrack and fun hits from the 80’s like New Edition’s Cool It Now and a newly mixed rendition of Human League’s Don’t You Want Me Baby. We had our picture taken in a DeLorean. The open bar was delish. And since we were in the VIP section MSM and I were gifted soft and warm 30th anniversary Back to the Future blankets, which I love.

BTTF2
I always love new throws. So soft and cuddly. They came in handy as the night air kissed the sky and a cool thin layer of condensation  draped our skin. Futuristic fun glasses were also a gift for us (pushed up on my head). 

Once the sun set the entire lot of us situated ourselves on large blankets that enveloped the lawn. We picnicked and relaxed under the stars as we watched the films. Its amazing how the movie still holds up. The humor plays, the acting is incredible. Yes, MJF and Christopher Lloyd are great but as a kid I never realized the incredible talents of Krispin Glover and Emma Thompson. The movie felt like it ended right when it started. The pacing is perfect. The editing was so strong I literally was sucked into the story, re-living the adventure. The best news? While we were having all this fun, $100K was raised for The Fox Foundation/Parkinson’s research to find a cure!!!

At the end of the night we were all transported back to 2015. I love how watching that movie made me feel like I took a time machine to 1985 (omg! Hot Tub Time Machine! Another great one!).

What to wear to al fresco movie screening?

Answer: LAYERS!

Even when its 102 degrees during the day, it gets cool at night. Believe me.

Hello DeLorean. Are you a time machine? There were only a few of these made before they were taken off the market. I'm not too sure about the actual history. There were four at this event. Three we could sit in and one that was dressed to look exactly like the one in the movie. The latter DeLorean was used for the photo booth where a professional photographer lit and photographed the guests for take home prints.
Hello DeLorean. Are you a time machine? There were only a few of these made before they were taken off the market. I’m not too sure about the actual history. There were four at this event. Three we could sit in and one that was dressed to look exactly like the one in the movie. The latter DeLorean was used for the photo booth where a professional photographer lit and photographed the guests for take home prints.

Shirt: Generation Love  Denim Shorts: One Teaspoon  Chunky Heeled Booties (not photographed): Chanel  Sweatshirt (not photographed): Wildfox Bag: Givenchy

In case you are interested in donating to or learning more about the Micheal J Fox Foundation, here’s a link to their website: https://www.michaeljfox.org

To read about Cinespia, or purchase tickets, click here: CINESPIA Scroll to the bottom of the home page to read all about the organization.

Thanks for reading!!

xo

QJ

QJ

Rompin’ around Oahu: Romper #5 and Nobu Waikiki

~ jillontoast ~ Leave a comment
Nightlife in Waikiki.
Nightlife in Waikiki.

Romper #5:

I have to admit, I only own four rompers, so I was a little curious where I’d get the 5th one to photograph (Uh oh. Looks like next summer I’ll have to add a 5th to my wardrobe. Danielle…..). Luckily I met a friendly young lady in the bathroom at Nobu in Waikiki who was wearing a jumpsuit (close enough). As we bonded over both living in Los Angeles, she was gracious enough to let me photograph her outfit for my blog.

This adorable young lady allowed me to take a picture of her casual yet sophisticated jumper. I love how a jumper or romper can go from casual to dressy just by adding the right accessories and shoes. Makes packing so much easier!
This adorable young lady allowed me to take a picture of her casual yet sophisticated jumper. She said “this old thing” is from Aeropostle. I love how a jumper or romper can go from casual to dressy just by adding the right accessories and shoes. Makes packing so much easier!

Nobu, Waikiki:

image taken from google
Image taken from google

I’m rather lucky for a lot of reasons, one being MSM just happens to be a close friend to the general manager for Nobu. I’ve been blessed with the honor of eating at three Nobu locations; Hollywood, the old Malibu location, and now Waikiki. Anyone I know that has eaten at Nobu (anywhere) has loved it, but I usually have a hard time ordering because a soy allergy and Japanese food is oxymoronic. Nobu Waikiki was by far the best Nobu experience I’ve had.  I’m sure it didn’t hurt that Mr. Nobu himself was actually at the location the night we ate there :). As usual, the staff was more than accommodating and my waitress helped me figure out what I could eat without going into anaphylactic shock. What I ended up ordering was a fresh heart of palm salad (What a treat! Heart of palm is so hard to get fresh, its usually canned), yellow tail Sashimi, and then cooked scallops.

Nobu1
The presentation at Nobu, Waikiki is amazing. Everything was very balanced and appetizing.

The salad and sashimi were particularly tasty. The scallops, paired with jalepeno salsa and brussel sprouts, were better than average. I was craving something refreshing to drink, so the bar tender made up (on the spot) a beverage called the raspberry refresher.

The Raspberry Refresher.
The Raspberry Refresher.

It was the perfect mix of vodka, muddled raspberries, and lime. I usually don’t like sweet drinks served in Martini glasses (I’m sorry, but a Martini glass is made for something dry and sophisticated- with lots of  olive juice), but this drink was the perfect blend of clean, citrus, and a dash of sweet. Great job!

What to wear on a night out in Waikiki:

Resort wear to the max. I was surprised how dressy Waikiki gets at night. Maui, Kauai, and The Big Island are way more lax regarding evening dress code. Luckily Danielle knew better. I had a beautiful dress set for each night we ate out, each casually elegant and perfect for Waikiki! Here are a few examples:

This maxi by Haute Hippie is one of my favorite maxi dresses from Danielle.
This Maxi by Haute Hippie is one of my favorite dresses from Danielle and is perfect for Hawaii. Shoes: Stewart Wetizman Crossbody Bag: Gucci
I also love how flow-y and feminine this dress is. Its been really hard to find a nice summer maxi that fits larger busted women, and this dress worked perfectly even sans bra! Dress: 23th Street By Cynthia Vincent Sandals: Valentino
Cleverly nestled through a secret passageway hidden behind a revolving bookcase, “The Library” is the Lounge/Bar at the Hotel Modern in Waikiki. Its been really hard to find a nice summer maxi that fits larger busted women, and this dress worked perfectly even sans bra! I love how flow-y and feminine it is. I felt very pretty that night. Dress: 23th Street By Cynthia Vincent Sandals: Valentino
Walking around downtown Waikiki was the best cure for the food coma induced by Duke's. Dress: ALC Sandals: Chanel Crossbody: Gucci
Walking around downtown Waikiki was the best cure for the food coma induced by over eating at Duke’s. Dress: ALC Sandals: Chanel Crossbody: Gucci

So concludes my five day series on rompers on Oahu. It was such a fun trip. I had a little taste of everything the Island had to offer. Just enough to know what I want to explore when I return 🙂  Definitely surf again! Try more local food spots. Hike to some waterfalls. Revisit the North Shore. Kayak to Scylla and Charybdus.

Sunset beach, North Shore Oahu.
Sunset beach, North Shore Oahu.

Until next time Oahu, Mahalo and Aloha

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Rompin’ Around Oahu: Romper #4, Behold Lanikai beach

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Lanikai Beach 

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
The beauty of Lanikai is breath taking. Colors of blue exist here that I’ve only seen once before in the Cook Islands. I named the two islands, about a mile away, Scylla and Charybdis. For a moment we were going to voyage to the islands, like Odysseus. Unfortuneatly the current and waves were too strong the day we were there. Perhaps another time we will take a kayak, when the man-o-wars are gone. 🙂

My favorite beaches in Oahu were on the North Shore- Sunset Beach and Makapu. With all its beauty and glorious colors, Lanikai on the East takes a close second. The ONLY thing about Lanikai that poses a little issue- it was full of Man-o-wars, and I was afraid of getting stung. I’m not sure that’s an issue there year round….

They Portuguese man-o-war may look pretty- or you may only see the stinger and wonder
They Portuguese man-o-war may look pretty- or you may only see the stinger and wonder “whats that string?”. Whatever you do- do NOT touch! Photo taken from google images.

Regardless of man-o-wars, the beach was great for laying out, and to swim in (for those brave souls who weren’t worried about getting stung- because the waters weren’t over wrought with them. To be honest, even I snuck in for a few moments here and there.) Once the towels are down and your over the man-o-war situation, this beach is seriously gorgeous.

Here I am looking for Man-O-Wars before jumping in the water.
Here I am looking for Man-O-Wars before jumping in the water. Romper: Parker  Sunnies: Celine

Lanakai3

The greatest thing about all the Hawaiin beaches is that the water is a warm 80 degrees. Jumping in is still a refreshing break from the hot and humid air, but the water doesn’t bite you like it does here in LA. So many times during the year I sit at my desk and the memory of tropical waters will pop in my head and say “Hi, come back and see me”. I love the sea. The soft sand. The gorgeous blues and greens. Oh and don’t forget the lack of buildings over 8 feet tall (well, Waikiki has those, but outside Waikiki and Honolulu not so much). Although LA/Cali has some beautiful beaches, none of the water in LA kisses your toes the same way as the surf in the tropics.

We will have to come back and Kayak to
So happy I took many moments to really absorb what was around me. The warm sun, the soft white sand, the thick salty water, the lush greens. Paradise.

Tomorrow will conclude my week of rompers in Oahu. I will also be reviewing Nobu Waikiki…..

Mahalo,

QJ

QJ

Rompin’ around Oahu: Romper #2 and #3

~ jillontoast ~ 3 Comments

Work kept me so busy yesterday I had no time to post. So today I will share with you two rompers:

Hawaii Kai:

Majestic Oahu.
Majestic Oahu.
A backdrop of Hawaii Kai, a small town 30min from Waikiki.
Taking a selfie with a backdrop of Hawaii Kai, a small town 30min from Waikiki.

 

Still loving this hat. Thanks Danielle!!
Still loving this hat. Thanks Danielle!!
This Equipment romper was perfect for hiking in Hawaii Kai and then crashing into bed for a nice long nap.
This Equipment romper was perfect for hiking in Hawaii Kai and then crashing into bed for a nice long nap. My Gucci cross body was the perfect companion on this trip. Small enough that it wasn’t in the way, but big enough to hold necessary items. 

Poolside In Pink:

Breakfast anyone? First one at the pool after the morning rain cleared out the humidity.
Breakfast anyone? First one at the pool after the morning rain cleared out the humidity. Tote: Givency.
Loving this Romper by Suno. Its so feminine. Its also cozy and flattering- which isn't always so true of rompers. xo
Loving this Romper by Suno. Its so feminine. Its also cozy and flattering- which isn’t always so true of rompers. Sandals by Valentino  xo
Nothing as great as reading poolside with no time limits, agendas to attend, or places to be.
Nothing as great as reading poolside with no time limits, no agendas to attend to, or places to be. Sunnies by Ray Ban.
Love this cute pink hat I found in the shop by the pool.
Love this cute pink hat I found in the shop by the pool.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s romper!

xo

QJ

QJ

Rompin’ Around Oahu: Romper #1/Hotel Review

~ jillontoast ~ 1 Comment

Welcome To Waikiki!

Beautiful Waikiki beach in tropical Hawaii. Image copied from google images. This is the beginning of the strand from the Hotel Modern in Honolulu.
Beautiful Waikiki beach in tropical Hawaii. Image copied from google images. This is the beginning of the strand from the Hotel Modern in Honolulu. The water is really this color!!
This Joie romper is super comfy and versatile. It can be dressed up with a pair of wedges or worn to the pool with flip flops. The perfect piece for a casual date or day out with friends.
This Joie romper is super comfy and versatile. It can be dressed up with a pair of wedges or worn to the pool with flip flops. The perfect piece for a casual date or day out with friends.

Romper: Joie     Tote: Givenchy     Sunnies: Celine     Flip flops: Havianas     Hat: Eric Javits

Where we stayed:

The Hotel Modern.

Our Room was bright and sunny and came with sarongs!
Our Room was bright and sunny and came with sarongs!

Chic and unpretentiously elegant, The Hotel Modern Honolulu was the perfect place to stay. The rooms feel fresh, clean, and comfortable. The staff is outstanding- so nice and accommodating. There are two pools, a wading pool on the top floor and a swimming pool below- both bar accessible for those of you craving that mid day coconut mojito. The beach and boardwalk is only steps away. The Modern is strategically located. Its far enough away from the hubbub of Honolulu/Waikiki that one can relax and feel that zen hawaiian vibe, but if you crave a local restaurant or shopping, its all within walking distance. There is a seemingly never crowded exercise room for those that would like to use it- with TVs, working equipment, and weights. The hotel hosts The Library, a lounge bar with live music. Also a rooftop bar voted the best in Honolulu exists above.

The view from the partial ocean view room. The hotel hosts a fireworks show every friday night, visible from the balcony of your room! Its like your own private showing, up close and personal! So cool!
The view from the partial ocean view room. The hotel hosts a fireworks show every friday night, visible from the balcony of your room! Its like your own private showing, up close and personal! So cool!

**Tip– the rooftop bar is small and hot. The decor is artistically enticing but honestly with its loud contemporary music and the fill of practically naked clad 21 year old “women”, this dance club feels less sophisticated and  is more appropriate for those under 30. I felt very old in there. 

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s romper from Hawaii Kai.

Mahalo

QJ

QJ

Rompin’ around Oahu!

~ jillontoast ~ 2 Comments

Oahu

We just got back from Hawaii yesterday. Culture shock big time! I can’t believe how much faster the pace of life is here in Los Angeles. I don’t want to live in Hawaii- though it is beautiful- but I would like to maintain the relaxed state of mind. I wish I knew how.

plumeria

I even love the word “Island”. Look how beautiful it looks. ISLAND. When I see it, I see flowers like plumeria and gardenia, and abundant amounts of plush greens. mmmm. Smells so nice. If I ever have a daughter, I’d like to name her Isla.

After this visit to Oahu,  I have now been to four of the five main Hawaiian Islands. I love them in this order: Kauai, Oahu, Big Island, Maui. Still one day I could see Molokai and Lanai (which I believe used to be a Dole pineapple plantation. I mean the entire island).

Enjoying a coconut mojito by the pool at The Modern in Waikiki.
Enjoying a coconut mojito poolside at The Modern in Waikiki.

Oahu, in my opinion, is a good mix between an island getaway and staying in a large bustling city. Honolulu comprises most of the island. Skyrocketing resort hotels kiss the tropical blue waters of the Pacific and outline Waikiki. We loved eating at Goofy’s- a local cafe close to but just far enough away from the main hub of hotels. The Nobu in Waikiki is by far the best Nobu I’ve been to. As per usual the drinks were amazing and there were way more soy free options at this particular location than the others. Yay.

We stayed at The Modern. The name describes it perfectly- modern. I highly recommend. It felt fresh and clean and unpretentiously upscale. The food was mediocre, but there are plenty of places to venture outside the hotel for meals- most walking distance. We prefer to explore and eat like locals when traveling anyways :). The hotel pool was exquisite and the beach boardwalk is just a short walk away.

pool

One of my favorite things in Waikiki was taking a surf lesson at Hans Hedemann’s surf school. I may have to blog about that independently because it was AMAZING!!! And yes, I stood up on the board- although only briefly. hahaha.

Sleepy pipeline. During the winter, when pipeline is more awake, this is where pro surfers gather from around the world to compete.
This beautiful non-threatening beach is called Pipeline. During the winter, when pipeline is more awake,  pro surfers gather from around the world to compete.
During the winter season Pipeline waves average 15 feet! Photo by http://www.jeffdivinesurf.com
Nov-Feb Pipeline waves average 15 feet minimum! Photo by Jeff Divine: Jeff Divine Surf Photography

After Waikiki we visited Hawaii Kai- the home town of MSM’s best friend. I loved Waikiki, but it was nice to explore and discover the local’s Hawaii. We played on the beach on the North Shore, got to see a sleepy Pipeline (see photo above), swam with man-o-wars on the south, considered kayaking to “Scylla and Charybdis” (the waves were too choppy- but next time we’ll go), and stood in awe from the beauty of Maks- the local beach hang out and my personal favorite (photo below). Early one morning we hiked up an old dilapidated train line to catch a view of Hawaii Kai and most of Oahu- which was both fun and challenging. The view was a perfect reward, as was the fantastic crepe at the local breakfast cafe. There are tons of hikes in Oahu, but we mainly beach hopped. I’d love to go back for more hikes. But first I want to hike Napali on Kauai. 

Maks. SO gorgeous the pictures do no justice. Notice the tiny little lighthouse far in the distance. I loved the contrast of black, blue, and green. Heaven on earth.
Maks. SO gorgeous the pictures do no justice. Notice the tiny little lighthouse far in the distance. I loved the contrast of black, blue, and green. Heaven on earth.

So apparently one thing you can’t miss next time your in Oahu is a “plate lunch”. There’s like 50 choices of meat (mostly pork, and chicken) over rice and macaroni salad. I have to admit it was pretty yummy (minus the mac salad bc lets face it, mayo is nasty and should be outlawed). A local plate lunch tastes delicious after a long day of playing in the sun and salty water.

Flashback to 1970, this shack served a perfectly delicious plate lunch. Photo taken by the talented Catherina.
Looking like a flashback to 1970, this shack recently served us a perfectly delicious plate lunch. Photo taken by the talented Catherina.

If I had packed for this trip on my own, I would have thrown in only denim shorts and t shirts. Luckily Danielle helped me pack- because her picks couldn’t have been more perfect. What better way to romp around Hawaii than in a romper?? Each day next week I will feature one of the rompers so you can see them all :).

Until then, have a great weekend!

Mahalo.

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Nine Zero One Salon is One-derful to the Nine’s! Part 1

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901
Photo borrowed from the salon’s website.

Wow! That’s all I can say about 901 Salon in West Hollywood. Everything was WOW! From the swanky well decorated waiting room, to the ceiling mounted TVs over the wash basins, this place has it all.

TV's were mounted above the wash basins- and they were playing one of my favorites. Which, by the way, was quite apropos for the occasion. Can you guess what movie this is? ;)
TV’s were mounted above the wash basins- and they were playing one of my favorites. Which, by the way, was quite apropos for the occasion. Can you guess what movie this is? 😉

Recently I had received a very unfortunate hair cut (can we say “mullet”?) I eventually named it the “bi-layered bob”. It was bad. There was no styling I could do to save it. So Danielle connected me with her long-time hair stylist, Morgan, at Nine Zero One in WeHo. When I called and made my appointment with Morgan, I had no inkling of an idea about the adventure upon which I was about to embark.

Turning onto Melrose Place I thought “oh no!” because parking in the area is horrendous. There is NOTHING I hate more than wasting my time finding a parking spot. But the salon offers affordable valet parking- smart! So that was a “no issue”.

I walked up the stairs to a non-threatening reception area. Because this salon is a pretty big deal in LA, I wasn’t sure if I would meet the front desk and be confronted with rude snobby receptionists. Impressively my reception was a nice one. The decor of the entrance is clean and simple. There’s a wall of products separating the area from the rest of the salon. Shortly after checking in I was escorted into an elegant waiting area. This is where things started getting fun.  First, I’m pretty sure I had a conversation with Blake Lively about her cherry apple red Celine handbag (and how she loves it and has it in three different colors- slightly jealous I am). Secondly, the waiting area is decorated better than most of my friends’ apartments. Which, by the way, says a lot because, my friends have great taste and ridiculously amazing decorating skills. This room was donned with gorgeous shades of grays (not 50), uniquely textured fabrics, and pulchritudnious custom light fixtures. I took pictures for ideas on how to decorate the walk-in closet in my new home -that I haven’t purchased or even found yet. Ha!

This picture doesn't begin to show how beautifully this waiting room was decorated.
This picture doesn’t begin to show how beautifully this waiting room was decorated.

I sat in the waiting room for a moment, watching some other gorgeous handbags come in and out; a classic flap Chanel in navy, an interesting open weaved Chanel hobo shaped bag with fringe (big this season, I’ve been told). There was a vintage inspired crystal beverage dispenser with iced cucumber infused water to refresh my palate. I’m telling you, this place stops at nothing.

Morgan came to retrieve me and take me to her chair. Judging by her exquisite hair and awesome outfit, I immediately knew she was going to be amazing at her craft. We talked for a bit as she examined the texture and color of my hair- she politely avoided mentioning anything about the horrendous cut.  I explained “I want fresh color. I don’t want to be ‘in the middle blonde’. I want to stand out with gorgeous hair. I want a hair makeover. And….can we also do something about this horrendous” and honestly before I even finished the sentence Morgan interjected “you need hair extensions”. Seriously, she read my mind. I knew it. This woman is on top of it!

Morgan foiling my hair for step one of my hair transformation.
Morgan foiling my hair for step one of my hair transformation.

Morgan definitely knows the art of hair. My blonde was transformed from Bimbo to Bergdorf in less than three hours. I LOVE it! She succeeded in giving me what every other hair stylist told me I couldn’t have. Not only is my hair a beautiful shade of baby blonde, its HEALTHY. The products sold at Nine Zero One are nothing shy of miraculous. Morgan said these products, imported from Italy, were like “Chanel for the hair”, and she’s absolutely right. A little goes a long way, so the products are also priced very nicely.

Nine Zero One is expensive, but not overpriced. Its well worth every dime.

Before (left) and After (right)- Photo NOT retouched. I went from Bimbo to Bergdorf in less than three hours!
Before (left) and After (right)- Photo NOT retouched. I went from Bimbo to Bergdorf in less than three hours!

Now that my hair is a great color and texture, I will return for my extensions. More on part two of my hair transformation later.

Meanwhile, if you’d like to book an appointment, click here: 901

xoxo

QJ

QJ

And the lifetime achievement award goes to……

~ jillontoast ~ 3 Comments

With the middle of awards season happening, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about who are my fashion/style icons. Then I decided to push it a little further. Who are the  women out there that I can look up to as not just fashion idols,  but life attitude roll models?  I’ve decided I’m calling these women my Attitude&Style icons:

Here’s my list:

1.Diane Keaton– 

Ok Diane is for sure not my FASHION icon per say, though I do appreciate her sense of individuality re style. I just adore her. She’s someone I revere. She’s aged with such grace and dignity. I just love how sassy she is. How she’s remained true to herself despite all her years in the Hollywood scene, where its so easy to become a plastic product molded into what the entertainment industry wants you to be (think Tom Cruise. I mean who IS he really? A plastic product of hollywood. A personality-less action doll. Just my opinion). Ms. Keaton is strong, independent, has her own voice, and stands up for her beliefs. On the flip side,  she doesn’t take herself too seriously. She can have fun. Break the rules. Laugh at life. And she definitely has her own sense of style.

Pic from google images. Love this hat. She's so cute!
Pic from google images. Love this hat. She’s so cute!

A few years ago Diane and I were neighbors. I used to see her walking her adorable lab around the bluffs. One time my Stanley ran up to say “hi” to her pup and we actually had a short conversation (Oddly or not so oddly, I’ve met a lot of celebs because my dog runs up to their dogs. Guess I should train Stanley not to run off like that…..hahaha. Or not!). I didn’t tell her she was one of my roll models – that would have been too weird. BUT…I did compliment her leopard print jogging pants. I’m sorry, but any woman that can pull off pants like that is awesome in my book! Love you Diane!

2.Betty White-

Definitely a life roll model. I’ve had the pleasure (and honor) of working with this woman, and I’m not sure how to really express the extent of how amazing she is. She’s SO nice. Really. Genuinely. She cares about the people around her and is interested in them and the world. She has no sense of “i’m better than you”, she treats everyone as an equal. Also she loves dogs as much as I do. At the time we worked together we bonded over pictures of her black and white Shih Tzu, Panda, and my black and white Shi-Tzu, Daisy (may those little angels rest in peace).

The trick to Ms. White's great quality of life is her ability to find humor in almost anything. She is a joy to be around. Photo by Toby Canham for Getty Images.
The trick to Ms. White’s great quality of life is her ability to find humor in almost anything. She is a joy to be around. Photo by Toby Canham for Getty Images.

Betty has aged with grace. She has a fun loving and uplifting attitude. She focuses on the good, remains optimistic, and can roll with the bad very well- mostly by finding silver linings and through laughter  (trust me, I know). Love you Betty!

3.Blair Waldorf-

Ok I know she’s a character in a basically extinct TV series, but to me Blair stays very much alive and forever young. I love her sass and non-delusinal sense of confidence. Her wit is ingenious (thank you writers) AND her sense of style – impeccable. Sometimes when in doubt I think to myself “what would Blair wear to this event?”- and it never goes wrong. Her style is classic and will never die. She’s ageless. And thats how I hope to be.

I think Blair's ambition and confidence is what would keep her alive and gorgeous well into her 90's if she was a real person. :)
I think Blair’s ambition and confidence is what would keep her alive and gorgeous well into her 90’s-  if she was a real person. 🙂

Are there any real women that channel Blair? Hmmm…..YES! My Aunt Joan! (see next on the list)

4.Joan Luntz-

I adore this woman. She’s now something like 93 years old- in fact I think yesterday was her birthday! She is still as beautiful and alive as ever! A long time ago, when women were expected to stay at home and not work, bless her heart for having the strength and sense of independence to follow her passion and start her own business designing textures and motifs for dinnerware. She is always dressed impeccably. She is ambitious, well read, has fantastic wit, and still -despite any obstacles- enjoys socializing with her friends discussing anything from fabrics to football.  Love you Aunt Joan!

My Aunt Joan. Definitely worthy of lifestyle Icon status.
My Aunt Joan circa 1980. Definitely worthy of life&style Icon status.

Checking in with these wonderful ladies here and there remind me that life is great and we can live it fully and for a long time. I think my father was right when he said “Jilly, the key to happiness is having the ability to laugh at whats thrown at you, and to laugh even at yourself. Laughter combined with ambition are the keys to a lifetime of joy.”  Thanks dad, for teaching me that.

Who are your Attitude&Style icons, and why? Share in comments if you’d like. Otherwise,

Keep smiling!

xoxo

QJ

QJ