Charleston Shop Curator

Wild Dunes Weekend

This past weekend I had the opportunity to stay at Wild Dunes Resort with my boys and we had the best time ever!  I already feel lucky to live in a place like Charleston where you can easily live like your on vacation.  If you do live in Charleston you know what I mean, but it’s also nice to actually getaway from your normal routine.  I love escaping to Wild Dunes because you feel like your transported to some far away remote island, but your really just in Isle of Palms.  What’s that, a family vacation without the hassle of jumping on a plane or driving for several hours?  Sign me up!

The beautiful thing about Wild Dunes is that you can cater your experience to whatever you want it to be.  If your an active group like us you have to take advantage of the clay tennis courts, golfing, biking,  swimming in the ocean and pools and an eco-tour to Capers Island.  If we had more time we probably would have done some of the other water activities like jet skiing, paddle boarding, and parasailing. Because let’s face it, seeing the Lowcountry from the water is always on a whole nother level.  If you want a more chill experience you can take a spa day and have dinner delivered to your room.

I always like to get acquainted with the place that I’m staying at by exploring the grounds.  The pool is always a good start at Wild Dunes, especially when there’s 5 to choose from.  They’ve got it all from an olympic sized pool, a kid friendly pool with a large shallow area, the adult pool with cabanas, and 2 pools next to the beach with a bar that stocks every frozen drink you can imagine.  You can also get all the adult frozen drinks without alcohol like my favorite, the “Miami Vice” which is a mix of Pina Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri.

Beach Caftan Cover Up – Little Palms $70 and Silk Scarf – Little Palms $122 by The Blush Label (Use Curator15 at checkout and recieve 15% off of your purchase!) // Sunglasses by Quay from Tres Carmen Boutique // Jewels from Gold Creations // Hari Mari Scouts flip flops $64.95 from Nordstrom

With so many different accommodations to choose from, the possibilities are plentiful.  You can feel like your living at the Dunes if you opt for one of their villas, homes, condos, or a penthouse.  Or if you want that hotel feel you can stay at The Boardwalk Inn or The Village, which is where we stayed.   I loved just walking downstairs and grabbing a snack or water at Hudson’s Market.

This is actually the best time to visit Wild Dunes Resort because it’s off season.  Not everyone might agree with me, but I think we’re lucky that we can enjoy the summer weather through October.   Because I love sharing my fun experience with everyone I’m teaming up with Wild Dunes Resort on a special deal.  Guests who book a minimum of two night stay using the special code CURATE will receive $100 off, valid for all stays through October 31st.  Now don’t just sit there, book that getaway you’ve been wanting to do with your family,  your significant other, or your girls weekend.

It’s impossible to fit everything we did in one post so stay tuned the rest of my Wild Dunes recap!

Hibiscus one piece in Azalea $165 by Citrine Swim // Turkish Towel $32 by Charleston Weekender (use CURATOR20 at checkout for 20% off) // Sunglasses by Quay from Tres Carmen Boutique // Frances Cabochon stone earrings $495 by Ash Hoffman

Photography by Clifford Pate, Mani & Pedi from Mylk Bar

The New New at Freshfields

Freshfields Village is buzzing with all of the new additions which means more reasons to keep on coming back.  Along with village veterans like The Resort Shop (where this dress is from), new businesses like Elizabeth Stuart Design, Studio 33 Kiawah, Blue Mercury, and and Fuji Restaurant have popped up over the summer.

Elizabeth Stuart Design is known in the Charleston area for her sophisticated selections in home decor, art, and accessories.  Her satellite shop in Kiawah is a curated mix of gorgeous jewelry from the likes of S Carter and cool shades by AM Eyewear (pictured here).  Her offerings are a nice price range making it easy to find gifts or splurge on yourself.

Blue Mercury was a no-brainer top open up, with no other makeup stores in the area of Kiawah and Johns Island.  This national store has shops everywhere including downtown Charleston, but this Freshfields Village location was much needed.  You can find the best makeup and skincare lines out there, and also get spa treatments like facials, waxing, and massages.  I had to try out some of their products and was so happy with the makeup application they gave me.

Another void in the area was a Japanese restaurant and our prayers have finally been answered with Fuji.  Their creative selection of sushi rolls, delicious salads, and appetizers will have you wanting to come back over and over again.  This is now on the top of my list for sushi in Charleston, and the best part is they can make any custom roll you want.  My friend Libby of Plate South and I were on a roll (pun intended) sampling everything we thought we could fit in our stomachs. If you go you have to try my favorites – Harumaki, Tuna Martini and the Avocado Salad.  As far as rolls go it just depends on how adventurous you are, but I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

If your looking for a relaxing shopping and dining experience then Freshfields Village is your answer.   Fall is always a great time to come out to the Village so follow them on Instagram to stay in the know of all of their events and happenings.

Dress by Laundry by Shelli Segal $295 from The Resort Shop // Sunglasses by AM Eyewear $465, Beaded purse by Ink + Alloy $62.50, Diamond tusk necklace by S Carter $3,545, Full pave diamond cuff by S Carter $1,370, Sterling silver wide ring by Sarah Richardson $200, Sterling silver equator ring $295, Asymetrical Iris Smokey ring $1,200, Sterling silver tripod ring by Sarah Richardson$155 all from Elizabeth Stuart Design from Freshfields Village //  Caress sandals by Corso Como from Nordstrom $119.95

Photography by Libby Williams 

1 Scarf, 10 Ways

It’s that time of year where you’re yearning for the switch in your wardrobe but can’t bear to think about fall clothing.  With the right accessories you can easily transition your outfits into the next season.  One easy way is to use a scarf like this one from Senza Tempo.  The American made, local Charleston brand specializes in classically tailored clothing for women who want to invest in staple pieces for their wardrobe.  This silk scarf has a print of butterflies, roses & leaves that are based on vintage prints from the 50’s. Founder/designer Kristen Fanarakis of Senza Tempo wanted to refresh the print by modernizing it.  There are endless ways to style this scarf, but I wanted to feature 10 of my favorite styles.

“The Bandana”

“The Headband-Headwrap”

“The Belt”

“The Sixties Side Tie”

“The Sashay”

If you love this scarf as much as I do then register to get on Senza Tempo‘s email list and you just might win one for yourself.  Click here to be entered to be entered into the drawing.

View more to see all of my ideas on how to tie one on.

Denim Jane jumpsuit by Valfre $92 from Dandy Boutique // Scarf $275 by Senza Tempo // Bag by Parisa Wang $340 and boots by Dolce Vita $240 from Shoes on King //  Bailey sunglasses $50 by Blue Planet Eyewear // Feathered ear jacket earrings by Spartina 449 $18 from Shoptiques

Photography by Paul King

Temple of Style

The start of a new season is always exciting and fall in Charleston means that there’s always an event to look forward to.  A trifecta of  trunk shows and guest appearances will make you grateful you live in one of the top style destinations in the South. We kick off the 1st week in October with a hosted event by Croghan’s Jewel Box and world renowned jewelry designer Temple St. Clair at the Charleston Library Society on Thursday, October 5, 2017 from 6-7pm. Temple St. Clair will be discussing her journey in the industry and a book signing of her latest publication The Golden Menagerie. Space is limited so make sure you RSVP here.

The Temple Tour continues at Croghan’s Jewel Box the next day on October 6th with a trunk show at their boutique at 308 King Street.  Meet the designer and shop her unique collection of Haute Couture fine jewelry that catapulted Temple St. Clair into the permanent collection of Les Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre in Paris.  Giving back is an important component to Temple St. Clair and she is heavily involved with philanthropy in the arts, environment, and animal advocacy.  Temple contributes and raises awareness to charities such as the New York City Ballet, Food Bank, International Marine Mammal Project , Coral Advocacy, and the Lion Guardians.  Combining beautiful jewelry with meaningful causes makes this brand one of a kind.

Conveniently located across the street from Croghan’s Jewel Box is The Finicky Filly at 303 King Street, and they’ll be hosting a triple treat of a trunk show on October 6th through the 8th.  The outfit that I’m wearing here by Fabiana Filippi is the featured clothing line from Umbria.  The Italian brand produces timeless and modern clothing using only the finest textiles.  Unique details like the feathered pockets gives this cashmere cardigan a playful luxe quality.

Another Italian brand The Finicky Filly will be showcasing is the handbag line Elena Ghisellinih.  The beautifully designed accessories are made out of the most vibrant leather and suede, each one a work of art.   If your looking for that statement piece of jewelry that can make your outfit go from ordinary to extraordinary then you’re going to love Mignonne Gavigan.  This couture meets streetwear jewelry line has been selling out at The Finicky Filly.  Her signature bejeweled scarf necklace is where it all started and she has expanded to her covetable earrings and cuffs.  Don’t miss out on the featured collections of these  brands available for a limited time only.

100% cashmere and feathers sweater $1,945 and acetate/silk shell top $465 by Fabiana Filippi, pants by Peserico $445, scarf necklace by Mignonne Gavigan all from The Finicky Filly

18k yellow gold diamond swan bella bracelet $8,900, 18k granulated bracelet $23,000, 18k yellow gold diamond dilion ring $2,950, 18k diamond lion post earrings $3,500, 18k yellow gold diamond swan ring $2,950, 18k diamond provence pave ring $1,190, 18k yellow gold emerald diamond trio ring $2,950, 18k pave diamond angel ring $1,950, 18k yellow gold diamond rope edge ring $5,500, 18k gold round link chain $5,400, 18k gold amulet pendant with 25mm crystal all by Temple St. Clair from Croghan’s Jewel Box

Photography by Mary Beth Creates, On location at the Charleston Library Society

Flower Power

Labor Day is around the corner which means that it’s time to take advantage of all of the sales.  House of Sage always has a sale you don’t want to miss out on, and starting Saturday – Monday everything in-store and online will be on sale for 20% off.  Including this dress that’s already a steal for $80!  They recently re-launched their website, so if you can’t make it in the store shop online 24/7.   Don’t forget to use the code LABORDAY20 at checkout for the 20% off discount.  

L.A. based Single Stone will be making another appearance at Croghan’s Jewel Box September 8th and 9th.  Meet the founders and designers Ari and Corina Madilian as they showcase their heirloom quality diamond jewelry at the trunk show.  Their antique diamonds, estate finds, and vintage inspired designs will surely make you swoon.

Dress by L’atiste $80 from House of Sage // All jewelry by Single Stone from Croghan’s Jewel Box

Photography by Clifford Pate

In the Navy

There’s something about a navy and white combo that is so classic but always fresh.   I’m a big fan of dramatic sleeves and Tres Carmen Boutique has so many great tops in stock like this one.  The beauty of it is that most of their clothes are so incredibly affordable.  This top is under $80 and these pearly heels are only $44!  I truly believe that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to look like a million bucks.

Tres Carmen Boutique carries a big selection of Julie Vos jewelry, which is great if you like to stack them up like me.

Fall is around the corner which means that Tres Carmen Boutique is getting shipments in on a daily basis.  Follow this local boutique on Instagram so you don’t miss out on all their new goodies.  And if you venture out to Kiawah then visit them in Freshfields Village because they usually carry different styles and brands that you won’t find in their James Island location.

Top by Gracia, shoes by Qupid $44, sunglasses by Quay, elephant cuff $245, bangles $210, and earrings $85 by Julie Vos from Tres Carmen Boutique // Vermeil double band fusion ring by Freida Rothman from Croghan’s Jewel Box // White pants by Do + Be from Maris De Hart

Photography by Clifford Pate

Summer Travels with my Fujifilm Instax Camera

My summer was full of exciting travels to Cuba and New York and I loved documenting all of the moments along the way with my Instax Square SQ10 by Fujifilm.  This hybrid camera is both digital and prints instant film so you have the ability to edit and choose which photo you want to print.

With this dual capability you can print multiple pictures of the same photo.   The other fun feature is that you can add filters like Instagram – making your image more saturated, sepia tone, black and white, ect.

Here is a collage of printed pics and below is the digital version.  Having both options is genius and a total game changer!  Taking pictures in Cuba was a photographers dream.  There was beautiful colors and texture everywhere mixed with nostalgia, so the polaroid quality was the perfect way to capture Havana.

It also offers image effects like vignettes, brightness adjustment, and double exposure.  I had some fun taking a picture of a building and palm trees, then layering it for the double exposure effect.

The Instax Square SQ10 camera fits perfectly in a world of instant gratification where you can share those moments without waiting to order prints.

View more to see all the exciting features this camera offers and my summer travels.