Black & White

There is nothing more stunning then black and white. 

But make sure you don't try too hard. 

What better way to get dressed chicly, quickly, than by wearing black and white? In the words of Coco Chanel: "Women think of colors, except the absence of color. Black has it all. White too, Their beauty is absolute. It is perfect harmony."

Theoretically, of course, this is correct. Unfortunately it can be surprisingly tricky to get black and white right in real life. The problem is simple and easy are two different things. 

Don't try too hard or you'll look like a bored waitress. The key is to choose the right monochrome for you, and style it up [but not too much].

CLOTHING DETAILS 

J.Crew Beaded Chevron Popover

Hudson Collette Skinny Jean (Stella)

Rebecca Minkoff 'Mac' Convertible Crossbody Bag

Alex and Ani Bracelets
Madewell Openpoint Ring 

Micheal Kors 'Channing' Turquoise Dial Watch
Frye Jamie Zip Bootie

PHOTO CREDIT | Molly Anzalone

Chicago Foodie

The city of Chicago will always be near and dear to me. 

It's heart and soul lives in the vibrant neighborhoods and within the people who call them home. Whether you're admiring the skyline from Lake Michigan or taking a stroll through the streets, you'll be able to find the true beauty of the city. It has exemplary architecture, delicious restaurants, and the best shopping in the Midwest [or so I think]. 

Explore the color and variety that Chicago has to offer. 

I have composed a list of my five all-time favorite gems for foodies. 

Metropolis Rotisseria and Annette's Italian Ice

They serve world's best ice-cream. If you don't believe me, ask my boyfriend. We ate there five days straight. I wish I was kidding. 

Floriole Cafe and Bakery

Floriole uses fresh, local ingredients and their bakery specializes in french pastries, which are divine. 

Green Street Smoked Meats

First off, this place is legitimately hard to find if you don't know where to look. Once inside you'll discover a smokehouse-meets-rustic warehouse aesthetic with all the meats and side one could dream of. 

Mercadito Fish Company 

Within the Talbott Hotel you will find a contemporary American seafood eatery. It is the best of casual and fine dining. By the way I highly recommend their cocktails, the Annie Ox is must have!

Pelago Restaurant 

If you're looking to experience Italian food and dining in a whole new way then this is the place for you. It may cost you a pretty penny, but it is definitely worth it! 

P.S. Today is the day. 

Farewell, Omaha. 

Hello, San Francisco.

Follow my journey on Instagram [@annachristinapalagi].

PHOTO CREDIT | Molly Anzalone

Packing For A Weekend Trip

Now that I'm twenty two and have had my fair share of travel experience, I'd like to think I'm an expect packer. Unfortunately, that's far from the truth. Because as much as I hate lugging around an overpacked bag, I always want to feel ready for any dress code. However, 

cutting down on what makes it inside your weekender bag has everything to do with staying calm, cool, and collected. 

Therefore, I decided to be a minimalist packer for my weekend trip to Chicago. 

I asked myself: What's the weather going to be like? 

Are there any formal events involved?

And how can I recycle outfit pieces?

These answers helped shape the contents of my packing strategy, along with employing a level of self-restraint.

For five days, including a Hawks as well as a Bulls game, a birthday dinner [we don't know about you, but we're feelin' 22], and a photo shoot or two I made sure to pack the following! 

Cardigan: They're the ultimate throw-on-and-go layer.

This one is versatile, wear-with-everything cardigan to keep out the chill. 

Statement Necklace: This stand out piece looks best when styled with a simple outfit. It is a fabulous way to add a trendy twist to an old classic. 

Graphic Tee: Normally, I'm not a fan of graphic tees, but they're perfect for traveling! 

They're comfy and a perfect laying piece. 

Skirt: You can dress a skirt up or down! 

Seriously, you can pair them with a plaid shirt or button down.

 Boots: Personally, I suggest you invest in L.L Bean Boots! 

They're stylish but they keep your warm while being a tourist.

Plaid Shirt: Plaid has become a wardrobe mainstay, whether you're camping, attempting grunge chic or just want to be comfortable!

Jeans: Jeans are classic. Take them from casual to a night-out!

Happy Monday!

Happy Monday!

I thought it would be fun to put together some of my favorite quotes.

We can all use a little motivation on Monday mornings. 

P.S. As of March 1st Anna Christina will be based out of San Francisco. 

I'll be sharing updates along the way!

How You Feel About Valentine's Day Through The Years

When you're young, you're safe. 
As far as you know, Valentine's Day is the same as any other day. 
You're blissfully ignorant. 

But once you reach elementary school, you know what Valentine's Day is and it's really great. You get to have themed parties AND you get a card from every person in the class making you feel special.

Then things begin to get awkward, you reach middle school, and you probably start thinking... "Ok. I need a dude." At the same time you're worrying all your crushes will end with them telling you to go away after you've told them you like them.

So you stay silent, secretly hoping you'll get a candy gram or a rose at lunchtime on the big day. Obviously you deal with the subsequent disappointment with grace. 

In high school, things get a bit better and you stop dreading the day and if you have a significant other you feel all giddy. Or if you're single, you decide to tell the world you don't give a damn about cheesy, commercialized holidays.

You also experience a fair share of disappointment and realize love sucks. 

Yup, I'll always remember when my so-called high school Valentine told me the box of chocolates he bought me had instead been drunk eaten by his older brother who'd just broken up with his girlfriend. 

Fact or fiction? I guess I'll never know.

During your college years, Valentine's Day isn't such a huge deal, but it's a great excuse to dress in red and go to a party. It's kind of like elementary school all over again but with alcohol!

Then you graduate and find yourself in your post-collegiate 20s where Valentine's Day is really about the art of choosing a great restaurant. It's true. This is my first Valentine's Day with a boyfriend and I've spend countless hours debating between celebrating in Omaha or waiting till we go to Chicago as well as what restaurants would be good. Like all girls, I want it to be perfect.

If you're single, you dress up, go out with your girlfriends and resolve not to talk about relationships. 

We've all been through it and the sad truth is at the end of the day Valentine's Day is just another day.

So this year make everyday Valentine's Day. 

CLOTHING DETAILS 
UNIQLO Heattech Turtleneck 
J.Crew Factory Plaid Mini
J.Crew Factory City Coat 
Bauble Bar The Courtney Bib
Vintage Heart Pin [Similar]
Report Signature Gwyn Knee-High Boot 

PHOTO CREDIT | Jeff Collins

Ex-Factor

As always, I want to be clear that I am not a relationship expert, so everything I write on this topic is solely my opinion and based on my personal experiences, but hopefully it gives you a different point of view or reinforces what you’re already thinking!

Everyone’s got one. And your partner is no exception. 
First of all, respect the ex. Who knows what your amazing, perfect boyfriend put his ex through that led to their breakup, but you can bet there was some heartbreak involved. Be compassionate and put yourself in her shoes. And if she was a lying, cheating - fill in choice expletive - and she crushed him, you can respect her for being that way so your boyfriend ended up free to date you. 

Forget the past. Right now, take a deep breath in and let go of every single detail about your boyfriend’s dating life before you two were together. He didn’t know all the things he would love about you then, because if he did, he wouldn’t have been there doing that. Let thoughts of the past be off limits. Trust me, guys don’t do things they don’t want to do, and he’s chosen to be with you — so you know where he stands.

When all else fails, remember this: whoever was a part of his past, had a part in making him who he is today — and you really like him today, right?

What is LOVE?

I want to be clear that I am not a relationship expert, so everything I write on this topic is solely my opinion and based on my personal experiences.

With Valentine's Day this week, I thought why not spend a week talking about the subject some dread and some adore, love.

To everyone love means something different and that is the true beauty of it. That's why I asked people to tell me what love means to them. I hope one of these definitions of love offers you a new perspective. 

Love is many things but it is never deceitful. 
Nothing toxic comes from genuine love. 
Remember that.

As my mother would say you can't truly love someone until you love yourself. 
Two words: "love confidently."

I believe there are two kinds of love. First, there is the love where you have a connection and appreciation for someone. Then there is the love when you fall head over heels for someone, which is being in love.

Let me introduce to you to Jamie.

She is a genius with HTML code and has a beautiful soul. 

To her  love means having the freedom to be unapologetically yourself. Those who love you aren’t blind to your flaws nor the mistakes you’ve made, but they know that they don’t define you. Those who love you will let you be flawed and beautiful, too.

Finally, when I asked my darling boyfriend what love meant to him. 
He came me the sweetest yet simplest answer. 
He told me, "Love is when you look into my eyes. Love is when you take the time to ask about my day. Love is sharing my life with you."

Sometimes the person you fall for isn't ready catch you.

Always remember being hurt is a choice. 

PHOTO CREDIT | Chelsea Stromer

                                                           

Hidden Gems of Omaha: Lot 2

Benson is fast becoming one of Omaha's most revitalized old neighborhoods. Centrally-located in what is considered the "heart" of the city, it is filled with historic buildings, which house some of the best dining and nightlife experiences Omaha has to offer. In the midst of it all is a restaurant and wine bar known for its New America fare made from local ingredients and select wines by the glass or bottle. 

In May 2012, husband and wife, Brad and Johanna Marr opened Lot 2, and in doing so raised the bar for fine establishments in Benson and throughout Omaha. Lot 2 focuses on approachable, innovative food sourced from local farmers, while serving hand crafted cocktails using fresh products. Their wine list includes wines from all around the world.

The space is simply stunning. One side of the restaurant is lined with an exposed brick wall, with an inviting (fully stocked) wood bar lining the other. At the back hangs a large chalk board featuring their wines by the glass with attractive wood tables in between. The room is comfortable and warm with the brick and rich wood hues setting the tone. It is perfect spot for a romantic Valentine's Day date.

Executive Chef Joel Mahr is a big proponent of the "buy fresh, buy local" movement since he sources almost the entire menu from local farms and producers. The spread of choices changes frequently and has something for everyone, including a variety of sandwiches, appetizers, main dishes, meat and cheese boards, and dessert. 

On a recent visit, my dining partner, Jeff [the man behind the camera] and I started off with a Happy Hour favorite, the grilled cheese ($6). The combination was fantastic, which included bacon, marmalade and onion. For entrees, we had quinoa ($10), which was a delicious blend of cucumber, roasted red pepper, orange, pine nuts and arugula paired with an avocado custard. If you are a quinoa lover, like me, you'll love it! We also had the duck croquette. It was topped with a pepper chutney aioli and micro greens. I give both dishes top marks.At this point, I must admit we were both getting full, but as an unselfish service to you, the reader, we persevered and ordered dessert. The peanut butter cup ($6) is a decadent concoction with chocolate peanut crumbs and carmel. Yum!

Lot 2 offers a truly remarkable experience. The service is one of their best features. The style is warm, friendly and casual. It may sound too good to be true, which is why it is worth checking out! For Valentine's Day this year they are offering a 3 course pre-fixe meal, which includes wine pairings for $59 per person. Make sure to make a reservation [(402) 504-4200]! 

CLOTHING DETAILS 
Ted Baker Black Dress [Similar and Similar]
BCBGMAXAZRIA Leather Moto Jacket [Similar & Affordable]
J.Crew Crystal Shimmer Earrings [Similar]
J.Crew Factory Crystal Dome Trio Necklace
Sam Edelman Red Ceila Pump [Similar]
Rebecca Minkoff 'Mini 5 Zip' Convertible Crossbody

Lot 2
6207 Maple Street 
Omaha, Nebraska - 68104


Hours of Operation
 Monday thru Thursday: 4:00PM - 10:00PM
Friday thru Saturday: 4:00PM - 11:00PM
Sunday: 10:00AM - 2:00PM


PHOTO CREDIT | Jeff Collins

Giveaway Winners

The moment you've all been waiting for! Hopefully.

The three winners of the Valentine's Day giveaway will each receive a handmade card by Courtney Mattern from Pleasant Avenue. A special shoutout to my beautiful sister and birthday girl Melissa for assisting me by pulling each of the winner's names out of a hat! 

1. Erica Chin

2. Shell Peterson

3. Alexandra Dennis-Renner 

Email me at annachristinapalagi@gmail.com to set up delivery.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide | For Him & Her

There are millions of gift guides for the man that buys you dinner.
However, finding the perfect Valentine's Day gift for them can be hard. If you buy them an iPad mini when you've only dated a few months that is a tad too, "I'd love a Harry Winston on it by Spring." However, after dating a few years a wallet seems so, "I'd rather give XYZ my money then you..."

Since men typically don't tell you what they want I bring you "Gifts For Your Beau." 

Cologne: This cologne will help you forgive No Shave November. It smells so perfect I literally spray it on myself. Don't tell. 

Phone Cover: They don't buy these for themselves. They just don't. 

Chocolate Chip Cookies: A delicious batch of homemade cookies can go a long way. Don't forget the way to a man's heart is still through his stomach. 

Whiskey: Bring this along with the cookies, then leave it on his bar. 

Wallet: This will make it awkward when he goes to pay for his next girlfriend's meal. Kidding. Be a sweetheart and get it monogrammed.

Bose Soundlink: My boyfriend LOVES listening to music. Treat him to these portable speakers that offer superior sound.

Belt: If you're dating a guy that is in his twenties, chances are his belt is a Christmas gift from his mom circa 2006. Upgrade it. 

Good Book:  If he enjoys  a good read then he'll appreciate that you took the time to chose a book you think he'll love. 

Now, for all those men out there that don't know what to buy. Whether you are shopping for your mom, sister, best friend, or girlfriend, I bring you "Gifts For Your Lady." I hope there's something here that suites her just perfectly. 

Dream Bag: Treat her to the handbag she has been lusting over forever. 

Nail Polish: No girl can ever have too much nail polish. Get her some pink shades to add to her ever-growing collection!

Cozy Throw: A pink blanket is perfect for cuddling up on the couch for a movie night. Why not buy her something you know you'll both use?

Decorative Pillow: A cute monogram pillow is so thoughtful. She'll think of you every time she sees it. 

Earrings: Every girl could use a pair of heart studs. It's true. 

Jewelry Dish: Help your lady stay organized with a cute jewelry dish. 

Perfume: This is my favorite perfume! She'll smell so sweet. 

Candle Set: This isn't just any candle—it's the candle. It's classic-looking, smells great, and the glass can later be used to organize things, like makeup brushes or spare change. 

 I love February. It is the one thing we celebrate the month that we celebrate that thing we should all be doing every day ... loving each other. Treat your love to something special this year!