the road to cappadocia {turkey part II}

To think it's been over a month since we wrapped up our whirlwind tour of Turkey, actually blows my mind a bit. Where has the whole month of October gone?! In all fairness, life got a bit hectic the minute I returned back to the States. I've started a new role at work (which I'm beyond excited for) and have been cranking away at big holiday campaigns -- all of this is to say, you may have noticed regular programming on This Time Tomorrow has been anything but lately. While I'd love to say I have this whole balance thing figured out between work and the blog (a common question I get via email from you dear readers), sometimes it's a fine line. And when 2am rolls around, you have to learn how to just walk away from the laptop. Easier said than done, of course.

But what about Turkey, you ask? Well I have two more installments coming your way this week, plus a whole other slew of travel posts straight from the Caribbean, so let's pack our proverbial bags for a minute and rewind back to September, when Heather and I were still bouncing around Turkey -- Cappadocia, to be exact. 

We actually only booked ourselves 48 hours in this little pocket of the country (smack dab in the middle of Turkey). Why? The main catalyst was for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the canyons which I had romanticized about ever since spotting it during a Google Image binge. The landscape in these parts is indescribably eerie and at the same time mesmerizingly beautiful. Hailing from the desert myself, there's an undeniable aching charm that desert landscapes can have over you and it was definitely palpable here.

These dwellings sprinkle the countryside. Originally homes, these "caves" are pretty easy to spot while hiking around -- just look for the etched out windows and oddly placed doors (that seem to have no easy way to climb to them).

Taking in the view during an impromptu hike, during which we followed hand drawn arrows on rocks to figure out the best path to the top. At certain points, we lost track of the arrows and had to circle around frantically for the next one. 

We spent a lot of time at this woman's stand, browsing through her jewelry and bags, while spending a bit of time with her children. 

Sunset ATV tour? Basically the only way to explore! We rode through the Red Rose Valley, making our way to the abandoned village you see above here. It was one of those moments where time felt suspended and untouched. 

While we didn't get the sunrise we were hoping for (it was quite overcast), I have to say this truly was a bucket list moment for me. We took off with at least 30 other balloons, hopping (sometimes narrowly) over the spires and peaks of the canyon and I loved every minute of it.  

Stay tuned later this week for the final part of our Turkey travels. 

gun in your holster

Shirt: Everlane; Jeans: BigStar; Shoes: Henri Lepore Dezert; Bag: Proenza Schouler; Sunglasses: Ray-Ban; Belt: Moschino; Watch: Daniel Wellington

I've had a few books on rotation lately, namely Lena Dunham's Not That Kind of Girl (still making my way through, but love it so far) and the wildly Instagramable How to be Parisian Wherever You Are. Both have filled a particular type of role during my most recent travels, but it's the latter that I've surprisingly been taking to heart lately. Sure, I don't expect to turn into a Parisian overnight after reading it, nor did it challenge me in a highly intellectual way either, but the "snackable" bits of advice (on love, style, confidence, sex, you name it), have been exactly what I've needed to keep in mind these past couple of weeks.

One particular favorite quote reads: "The signature item is an attitude. It is the gun in your holster that makes you feel well dressed and invincible."

Lately, I couldn't be be relying on this quote more. Work has been running me through some pretty long hours (it is holiday season after all) and while I love the go-go-go nature of it, I'm more often than not, getting dressed while it's still dark out, which makes feeling put together at all times, a bit tricky.

Fortunately, a great rotation of black skinny jeans (like this pair from Big Star, which I've been living in lately) and an oversized silk blouse are really all I need to get through the door. For a daily uniform, it's understated, chic and polished without looking too overdone, and I love that while it only took 2 minutes to put together, it still gives me that attitude/confidence boost to really take on my day. Plus, these jeans fit like a glove at just the right high-rise cut -- striking the perfect balance between slightly formal and slightly off duty. Net, net, if my attitude is the gun in my holster, then this uniform is my ammo. 

This post was in collaboration with Big Star Denim. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting all This Time Tomorrow collaborations!

Photos by Kim Mitchell 

laced

Dress: Derek Lam (on sale!); Shoes: Henri Lepore Dezert; Bag: Chanel; Sunglasses: Ray-Ban; Necklace: Jennifer Zeuner

This dress found it's way onto Instagram a few weeks back and I loved seeing the comments come in about it. While it somewhat lacks in hanger appeal, I have to say it's probably one of my favorite dress purchases to date, combining so many go-to elements for me. Black and white. A little bit of intrigue with the different lace varieties. And the hug-like silhouette that then flares out at the hem. It's just the kind of dress that I feel confident and like myself in, which really, what more can you ask for? Of course, the fact it was also majorly on sale certainly helps as well. :)

As for the occasion? This past weekend I attended the last stop of the College Fashion Week tour put on by Her Campus. Fun fact (that some of you may know): I started this blog back when I was graduating college. Granted, I'm far from college age now, but I applaud the idea of making a fashion show specifically for college-age girls, with accessible but on trend pieces. I'd be lying if I didn't admit it's something I would have loved if it were available when I was in school, because, really, college is one of those times you're truly discovering who you are outside the context of home, family, high school, and that very much that spills over into how you begin to shape and discover your own personal style. I, for one, experimented with a lot of styles in college -- some good, some bad and some downright, well, ugly. But the process was fun, nonetheless. 

That said, Saturday's festivities were a blast and I loved getting the backstage pamper treatment with full makeup thanks to Bare Minerals, followed by some incredible hair magic thanks to Tyler at Tresemmé. Huge thanks again to the College Fashion Week and the Teen Vogue team for having me!

Photos by Kim Mitchell

This post was in collaboration with College Fashion Week/Her Campus. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting all This Time Tomorrow collaborations!

off the grid

Sweater: Zara; Skirt: Ohne Titel (similar style here); Boots: Sigerson Morrison (last year, similar styles here); Bag: Proenza Schouler; Sunglasses: Ray-Ban; Necklace: Bauble Bar

All I can say is, man, it feels good to be in fall layers! 

Photos by Natalie Goel

out at sea

Dress: Robert Rodriguez, similar style here (full outfit post coming soon)

Apologies for the radio silence as of late -- hopped out of town for a quick getaway (my first cruise actually!) with Princess Cruises and have been enjoying a lot of salty ocean air and lazy days by the pool. Granted, wifi has been a bit unpredictable out on the open water (as expected) but it's been the perfect excuse to unplug for a few days and clear my head. When quiet moments like this come along, I love crafting a little playlist to zone out to -- something to tune the world out (even for just a moment). Here's a taste of what I've had on repeat lately...

gorgeous & green

Jacket: Alexander McQueen; Dress: Thomas Wylde borrowed from The RealReal; Shoes: Henri Lepore Dezert; Clutch: Charlotte Olympia

I know I say this from time to time here on the blog, but sometimes when those certain hellish work weeks come along (you know the kind), it's easy to just crawl back into bed and give into marathon sessions of {insert cult hit TV show here} and resign until Monday. And trust me, sometimes you really need just that reboot. But other times, especially those that give you an excuse to scoot out of work a bit early on a Friday (but not too early) and throw on a cocktail dress -- well, you have to take advantage. 

Last weekend, I was invited to the Gorgeous & Green Gala at the Bently Reserve in San Francisco put on by the Global Green organization, whose proceeds go back toward advocating for smarter solutions to climate change and other eco-friendly initiatives. Aside from fan girling over Goldie Hawn and Navid Negahban among other celebrity hosts for the evening, I loved finding an excuse to hunt down a green dress for the occasion (the evening's attire requirement). Oddly enough, I don't own a lot of green in my wardrobe (especially of the cocktail variety), but this emerald color caught my eye so much while I was browsing The RealReal that I may have to incorporate more of it into the daily rotation.  

Photos by Kim Mitchell

blue jean baby {dl 1961}

Jacket: Isabel Marant via The RealReal; Shirt: Kit & Ace; Jeans: DL 1961 c/o; Boots: Isabel Marant via The RealReal; Bag: Everlane; Sunglasses: Ray-Ban; Necklaces: Jennifer Zeuner; Watch: Daniel Wellington

While I live in jeans pretty much year round, there's something about picking up a few new pairs for fall that still gets me excited. Don't get me wrong, I love a pair that's been broken in, year after year, (still have a pair from high school that I *kinda* fit into) but I'm always amazed at how fast evolving and innovative the jean industry can really be with new fits, new stretch and new sculpting capabilities. Really, it's funny to think that something as time-honored and as classic as the all American blue jean seems to reinvent itself time and again. 

So naturally, when DL 1961 asked me to try out their new smart denim technology, I was definitely curious. Denim is such a huge part of my life, but I demand a lot out of a good pair. On any given day, I'm usually running (or biking) to meetings across campus, helping style on set at shoots or simply need to look that certain polished but undone Silicon Valley chic. My jeans need to stand up to the challenge. And this pair? I think it's won me over. Comfortable stretch, without losing that substantial denim feel, just the right amount of give where I need it and a great overall slimming effect. Oh, and well, I like to think they make my butt look good too, so there's that.... :) 

Have you guys tried out their smart denim technology yet? Would love to hear what you think!

This post was in collaboration with DL 1961. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting posts that keep This Time Tomorrow's doors open!

Photos by Natalie Goel

i'll have what she's having {fall cravings}

Topshop coat // Lanvin boots + Alexander Wang dress // Theory dress + blouse // Derek Lam boots // Isabel Marant dress // 3.1 Phillip Lim dress // Miu Miu boots // Aquazzura boots // Topshop turtleneck // Vince sweater coat

Regular programming may be a bit bumpy around these parts the next few days. It's going to be one of those weeks, I'm afraid.

But, that doesn't mean I don't have some sartorial distractions up my sleeve (for you know, those '2- am-I-just-need-a-retail-fix-breaks'). This assortment all started with these boots, and it was game over from there. There's something so fall-worthy about a great pair of leather boots -- they seem to really kick off the season on the right note which is why I've been searing high and low for my inaugural pair this time around. These guys may also fit the bill (but I'll keep my options open this week).

What boots are you craving for fall?

life lately {indian summer}

While I'll always be a fall girl at heart (I just love layers too much!), I've been soaking up the west coast's Indian summer lately. All I can say is San Francisco this time of year is just too good to pass up. Here's a taste of what I've been up to...

1. A view that never gets old. #PalmTreesForDays

2. Packing up for weekend trips just got a whole lot more organized (and chic!) with my new Cuyana travel case. 

3. Ocean salt working wonders on my hair. Must find a way to recreate this texture at home. Most of my beach sprays don't cut it. Any suggestions?

4. One of my coworkers recently mentioned that he loved how monochromatic my looks are becoming lately. I guess I will always just love a good black and white look, like yesterday's outfit post. 

5. Peek inside my evening clutch (oh, and don't forget about my work and weekender bags!).

6. When in Los Angeles, do as the Los Angelenos do...rent a convertible. 

7. I'm a creature of habit when it comes to my Saturday routine. Gimme the lifestyle section (of most any newspaper), a tall iced coffee and a side of flowers and I'm a happy girl.

8. Did someone say flowers? 

9. This past weekend marks the first time I've ever laid out in SF in a bathing suit. The weather was beautiful! Lounged around with Elvis, Natalie and Kim for a few hours while sipping wine and catching up. Girlfriend time is always better with a little sunshine. Oh, and this Triangl suit? A keeper!

10. One of my favorite hotels in San Francisco -- The Fairmont -- does glamour right. I mean, check out that lobby! 

11. Sunday casual in ripped jeans, sneaks and these Ray-Ban Clubmasters that I can't get enough of.

12. Ohhh la la...this sweet nothing set by Beautiful Bottoms is taking lounging at home (when you don't have AC) to a whole new level. 

As always, you can follow along right here on Instagram.

back to the basics

Blazer: Helmut Lang; Shirt: Kit & Ace; Jeans: Abercrombie & Fitch; Shoes: Henri Lepore Dezert; Bag: Chanel; Sunglasses: Ray-Ban; Lips: Stella; Necklace: Bauble Bar X Nordstrom; Watch: Daniel Wellington

As much as I love traveling, there's something so great about getting settled back into your routine at home. This past weekend, I took full advantage. Cleaned up the apartment (much needed!), unpacked my many haphazardly thrown bags (whew!), enjoyed the insane sunshine at the beach (exhibit A) and indulged in one too many episodes of a juicy new show (hello, Blacklist!). 

So tell me, how was your weekend?

Photos by Natalie Goel

what's in my bag {evening edition}

Packing an evening bag (or clutch rather) can be tricky. You have limited space to pretty much hold your essentials for the night, so editing is key. Since I've gotten older, I've adopted more of a mom approach to my evening bag (yes, I really do bring a granola bar with me) but I think I've finally fine tuned it. Here's a peek inside...

The necessities: ID, cash, credit cards...because you clearly won't get far without them.

COVERGIRL Outlast Illumina lip color: I have a confession to make. I'm pretty awful at checking my lipstick for touchups, especially for evenings out. It somehow always slips my mind and before I know it, I'm taking my makeup off at the end of the night, wondering how long my lips were left looking like that. I know, I know. Blasphemy. But! I think I've met my match. This duo by COVERGIRL is the perfect night out pair in that the color lasts up to 24 hours, thanks to the topcoat gloss that locks in extra moisture. Just a few little swipes of the topcoat (in between cocktails) and I'm good to go. 

Spare earrings: Just in case you need to add a little sparkle to your look.

Kind granola bar: I started bringing snacks with me for evenings out just in case I don't have time to grab something to eat before heading out. Granted, it definitely doesn't substitute a full meal before drinking, but it does help tide me over until I sit down and eat a proper meal (or get late night french fries, whatever comes first).

Crest 3D Whitening Strips: Lately, I've been packing these in my clutch to throw on before heading out (generally an hour before).

Altoids: Because you never know who you might strike up a conversation with at the bar. :)

And in case you're just joining now, you can see my other bag edits here and here.

This post was in collaboration with Lucky Magazine, COVERGIRL and Crest. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting posts that keep This Tim. Tomorrow's doors open!