ChasingKendall - Page 2 of 48 - Fashion and Lifestyle Blog based in San Francisco, CA

Guys! I am soooo excited about this drink recipe! Maybe because I figured it out all on my own (without online help), or because it’s been a cool minute since I’ve posted one, or because it’s just that damn delicious and being in quarantine has made me an alcoholic but either way, I’M EXCITED. Let me back up a bit though…

Right before the world went into quarantine, Katie and I were down in Mexico starting some wedding planning! 😱💍 But the trip was a twofer because we also discovered our new favorite summer drink. Out to dinner at our favorite restaurant in Cabo, Flora Farms, we ordered El Viejo cocktail (pineapple & mezcal with cilantro & jalapeño served on the rocks) and all of a sudden, eyes bulging, I blurted “holy sh*t we have to figure out how to make this at home!!!” — and that we did my friends! 😜

Last week stuck at home, I took to recreating it (accidentally got a bit drunk along the way haha #wheninquarantine) and I’m very proud to share it was a major success! 👏🏼

Ingredients (for 1):

2 oz Mezcal*
1 oz Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur**
1/2 oz Fresh squeeze lime juice
1/2 oz Pineapple juice
1/2 oz Agave
Soda water (optional)
Garnish: Tajín, rosemary, dried pineapple (I found my dried pineapple at Trader Joes and it made the perfect garnish)

*Any mezcal haters out there should sub with tequila (not my preference but w/e I know there are def those who can’t get down with the ‘zcal 😉).

**Don’t have Ancho Reyes? Muddle a jalapeño (can’t vouch for this personally, but it should work)… without ANY spice, the cocktail might be too sweet

Process:

Use a squeezed lime to rub the rim of your glass and then dip glass into a plate of Tajín to make the rim (yes, do this first before you to forget and pour the drink lol!)
Add all ingredients (mezcal, chili liqueur, lime juice, pineapple juice & agave) to a shaker with ice
Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds
Strain into glass over ice
Top with a splash of soda water (optional step but I like it because it makes the drink feel a little bit lighter)
Extra credit: use your stove to char the garnishes. Rotate the edges of the pineapple slowly over the flame until the rim looks charred, repeat with rosemary (a gas stove is better than matches or a lighter, I tried it haha).
Garnish with the dried pineapple slice and sprig of rosemary then serve!

Suggested glassware for this drink:

Anyway, did I mention I’m SO so excited about this recipe!?! Lol. It’s the perfect blend of everything…a little citrus, a little spice, a little sweet, a little smoke.. YUM! I’ve made several since returning home from Cabo and plan to continue on into the summer months. It’s truly my cocktail of choice at all hours of a sunny day.

I hope you love it as much as I do! Cheers! 🍹😁

Shop Style

Shopbop’s Spring Sale Picks

Posted on March 5, 2020

Shopbop’s Sale for a little wardrobe boost? What a great way to kick off spring! 😉

Not a wardrobe refresh because I’d hope my wardrobe can withstand the change in seasons lol but a little
booster never hurt anyone! Sometimes just getting that one new pair of shoes can bring a slew of fresh styling ideas to my over worn items.

I’ll embarrassingly admit, I’ve already checked out twice while creating this post and gathering my top picks haha. Yikesss. And one item on sale and another not on sale — I hate when that happens! They got me good! 😬

Anyway you know the drill, happy shopping!

15% off orders of $200+
20% off orders of $500+
25% off orders of $800+

FAVORITES UNDER $100:

FAVORITES UNDER $200

FAVORITES UNDER $500

**Don’t forget to checkout with code: SPRING**
SALE ENDS SUNDAY MARCH 8TH AT MIDNIGHT

Discover Style

Brands For Women, By Women

Posted on February 26, 2020

I’ve been wanting to write this post for sometime now, it just always felt so daunting… How I could I possibly sum up all the female owned brands, let alone my favorites!? The answer is, I can’t. 😂

In our new woke world of females finally fighting back, so many great companies have emerged that are made by women, for women. So maybe consider this a series… a continuously updated and builded upon foundation for a catalog of my favorite companies supporting women’s styles, bodies, and minds.

For my *current* highlights…

SEZANE

Founder: Morgane Sezalory

What: “Born in Paris, made for the world,” Sezane is the “it” brand for Parisian style. Their brand reflects our romanticized view of Paris, creating styles that are vintage inspired but sophisticated and timeless. Made unique by that laidback Parisian attitude, of course.

Why I love them:

Fully transparent about their work environments and clothing production, Sezane is hugely committed to sustainability in the fashion industry. Their eco-friendly garments are super high quality while maintaining an affordable price point.

Not to mention, they created their own philanthropic program, DEMAIN, supporting education, culture, and equal opportunities for children around the world. 😱(…and for those fans that are extra curious they even put out public reports on their contributions to sustainability and solidarity).

I feel really good about falling in love with Sezane, and that love will be everlasting.

PARADE

Founder and CEO: Cami Tellez

What: Underwear (briefs, cheeky, boy shorts, thongs) that are super soft and breathable.

Why I love them:

Parade is unapologetic in their presence (something I’m personally working on, probably fueling admiration). Their brand and messaging is at the 🔥🔥🔥 current climate of women in the world… I mean, their manifesto just says it all–talk about inspiring!

My real tangible love comes from their product, which is for all body types (sizes: XS-3X) and at a literally unbeatable price point ($9)!

They use recycled fabrics that are good for your body and the environment, and they give back in more ways than that! 1% of their profits go to Planned Parenthood across the nation, always! They aren’t just haven’t a “charitable moment.”

NEOCOCO

Founder: Amrita Thadani

What: L.A. based company (woo!) making tees, sweatshirts and scarves, both embroidered and screen printed.

Why I love them:

I’m a complete sucker for tees with the female form on them. So naturally when I saw NEOCOCO’S tees populate through my Instagram feed I was locked. Only later did I discover the amazing foundation on which this company was built.

NEOCOCO trains and hires women refugees, giving them a safe work environment which enables them to contribute to their families and society. Every hand embroidered t-shirt is a representation of the woman who embroiders it, helping her gain back her independence and dignity. How beautiful is that?

Working with local mills and factories based in DTLA, they can do no wrong! And to take it one step further, 100% of their revenue is directed back into the company to hire and assist more refugees. 🙌🏼

———————–

So in honor of International Women’s Day next Sunday (3/8), here is my post to salute all the bad-ass women out there running their own businesses and taking charge. But also Women’s Day aside, I encourage you to always wear, support and seek out brands run by these strong women. ❤️💯

But actually though, should I make this a quarterly series?! Comment below to vote!! 🙏🏼

*Please note: none of the images are my own, besides the header image, which features Sezane clothing – modeled by me, shot by Vilerx

Shop Style

Shop the Trend: Oversized Blazers

Posted on January 28, 2020

Oversized blazers are one of my favorite trends that’s surfaced because I know it won’t be going away anytime soon. 👏🏼Blazers are such a classic piece, making everything look buttoned up… but this new wave of oversized fits lends itself to that DGAF attitude (hello me).

I love the box cut, straight shape, shoulder pads and 80s/90s aesthetic. 👌🏼 Ever since I snagged this vintage DKNY one from my mom’s closet, I find myself reaching for it over and over again (something I’m not used to doing with blazers).

Looking put together while maintaining an “effortless” vibe is always one of my main style goals, which is why I just purchased this Frankie Shop blazer last week. Speaking of the Frankie Shop, I truly think they are the it brand for oversized blazers, but truth is they aren’t on Rewardstyle so I can’t stream a carousel of products here haha, 🙈 hence my need to mention ^ (my latest purchase), hoping to steer others in the right direction.

Frankie Shop aside, there are some amaaazing options below. Starting with this & Other Stories blazer (available in 7 colors) which is absolutely divine in style and quality, for a more forgiving price point. 🙂

So how to style? SO many ways…

Literally with all pants – highwaisted everything, straight jeans, skinny jeans, wide trousers etc.
Literally with any top – graphic tee, turtleneck, lace cami, cozy sweater
Put a belt, or a belt bag, over it (the hottest way to wear them right now)
For shoes I love a chunky boot (like Docs), lug sole shoe, dad sneakers, or simple strappy kitten heels

Plus a few call outs…

For those feeling extra bold, go for this on-sale Rachel Comey tiger blazer — because I’m just addicted to all things tiger right now (sure it’s trending but isn’t it always fierce??)

Lastly, Ever since I found lavender in every NYC boutique I visited over the holidays, it’s been on the top of my list for new purchases — this lavender blazer included. 💜

Happy shopping, comment with any questions and see you in baggy, oversized, 80s vibes, heaven!!!

Shop Style

Favorite Holiday Dresses

Posted on November 28, 2019

thanksgiving outfit san francisco chasing kendall

Feels good to be home! Writing this post from my mom’s couch, TV re-runs on in the background and the heat turned up high (anyone else crank up the heat at their parents’ over the holidays? haha) — life’s good.

Anyway, I’ve been absolutely obsessed with all my recent Sezane purchases (if you follow me on IG then you’ve seen them takeover my feed the last couple weeks haha), and I’m very excited to wear this Armance Dress for Thanksgiving. So I was thinking… I should probably link it up here, along with some more of my favorite dresses for all the holiday festivities ahead!

A few favorite holiday dresses:

Some more casual for your Friendsgivings, others a bit more festive for the holiday parties but all dresses pair well with an earthy bouquet 😉💐

Shot on 35mm film and digital // Photos by Vilerx

Discover

This Works, For a Better Night’s Sleep

Posted on November 6, 2019

this works deep sleep pillow spray - chasing kendall

Before I woke up to write this post, I was cuddling in bed with Katie and said “bed is really my favorite place, so warm and cozy” as I snuggled in closer to her, the comforter practically covering my face…and I meant it. I could snuggle in bed forever.

For me sleep is like a magic button, a chance to reset and start over. If I have a terrible day and just can’t get out of my head, a good night’s rest allows me to forget that, wake up and be ready to (quite literally) “seize the day.”

Sleep is an opportunity to rest and heal, both mentally and physically; and getting a restful sleep is crucial to that new beginning each day.

I usually sleep through the night without any issues, but falling asleep has always been hard for me. Mainly because I can never seem to get my mind to slow down!!

Over time I’ve made a few new habits that seem to ease the anxiety of falling asleep:

Write in a notebook that I keep on my bedside table, any of the thoughts I have while trying to fall asleep. That way I can get them out immediately and not waste time trying to remember them for the morning.
CBD drops in my tea before bed, seem to relax my body and mind just a bit more than regular tea, although that’s great too.
This Works line of sleep products (especially the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray).

#3 being the newest addition to my sleep routine and couldn’t be more pleased with the results!

Each This Works pillow spray, now available at Ulta Beauty, is formulated using a blend of 100% natural, therapeutic essential oils made to calm, relax, and comfort. 🙌🏼😁 In fact, Katie was helping me shoot yesterday and was so relaxed afterwards she had to take a nap haha. So I can’t speak for everyone, but it definitely helped us!!

The Deep Sleep Pillow Spray (found both in-store and online) is my favorite because it’s geared towards people who struggle to fall asleep; releasing an immediate burst of fragrance that is proven to calm a racing mind (👈🏼 always me).

Not to mention, This Works products are all natural sleep aids (and smell deliciously of lavender and chamomile)! It’s def not great to ingest sleep aids on a daily basis so I thank This Works for creating a more natural sleep solution, just a spritz away (and we all know how I love my spritzes 😜)!

So tonight, I’ll be kicking Daylight Saving Time in the butt again with my Deep Sleep Pillow Spray. Falling asleep with ease, to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the to-do’s. ✔️😁

Don’t forget This Works is now available at Ulta Beauty! So shop online or in-store (but the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray is currently the only product available in-store).

Sleep Together Calming Spray (found online): For those in need of relaxing before bed. I like spraying this around our bedroom, before going to bed, to create a generally calm atmosphere, encouraging a better night’s sleep.

*This post in collaboration with This Works — experience and opinions developed on my own.

Travel

Amsterdam City Guide

Posted on October 16, 2019

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in the world. Mainly because I can see myself living there, and honestly hope to one day. It’s the cutest, most peaceful, chill city with just the best vibes all around. Everyone is super nice, dresses well haha, LGBTQ friendly, rides bikes happily around everywhere and basically just lives my ideal lifestyle haha. ONE DAY I will make it to this design, hipster, fashion mecca.

Surprisingly, unlike most of my past city guides which revolve around eating or drinking, my Amsterdam city guide will be predominately shopping! (I mean… just check out my map below, it’s pretty much all bookmarked stores). 😛

Don’t get me wrong though, still tons of recs on where to eat and drink below! (And as always, a google map I created with all my bookmarks).

Where To Stay

In case you didn’t know, you don’t have to be a member at the Soho House to stay there, and we lovedddd our stay at the Amsterdam location. It’s so central to everything, we honestly spend most of our time in Amsterdam shopping and walking the nearby streets of Soho House haha. Our room had gorgeous views of the river, the most extra in-room bar experience I’ve ever had (pictured above — literally there was vermouth in a perfume bottle 😭🙌🏼), and the best rainfall shower head of my life haha.

If you’re looking for some other options, I bookmarked all my favorites (aka “potential stays”) on the map at the end of this post. 😉

Cecconi’s (in lobby of Soho House)

Where to Drink

Cecconi’s
I’m obsessed with Cecconi’s. No matter what city, they never disappoint in atmosphere or food quality, and the one in the lobby of the Soho House is annoyingly photogenic. Live music on weekends too!

Pulitzer Bar
A hotel bar with stiff drinks and low light, exactly my kind haha. Went here after dinner and it was the perfect nightcap (or place to get an espresso martini if you’re turning up). 😆

Anywhere by the river! Grab a beer from De Bierkoning and a make-your-own stroopwafel from van Wonderen Stroopwafels and plop down alongside the river for some people watching. Or, check out Waterkant — a total locals hang on the river (that I put in my drinking section because the food is average but vibe & beers are great haha).

Happyhappyjoyjoy Asian Restaurant

What to Eat

Jansz
Elevated classic dishes in a pretty environment, Jansz is a romantic spot that’s actually attached to the Pulitzer Hotel (also recommended on the map below).

Venus & Adonis
Stumbled upon this spot walking around the neighborhood and it was one of our faves!! Cutest little place with outdoor street seating, great cocktails, amazing comfort food + healthy food.

HappyHappyJoyJoy (West)
Got my Asian fix at this kitschy dim sum place. Super fun vibe with friendly staff, serving their own beers too! Highly recommend the Crispy Chicken Bao Bun (it’s pink)! 🤤

La Perla Pizza
The best pizza in town and serves goblets of Aperol Spritzes. 😉Get the Calabrese Di Spilinga pizza!

Mr. Porter
Seriously expensive and seriously delicious, Mr. Porter was a treat for our engagement but every bit worth it. I mean, there was an onion string tower and the most yummy steaks ever + bomb cocktails.

Venus & Adonis

Jansz Restaurant

La Perla Pizza

van Wonderen Stroopwafels

Where to Shop

Well, dive deep into my map below because I bookmarked SO many shops, all of which I’m in love with haha.

Honestly, if you just start at the corner of Singel & Gasthuismolensteeg and walk …West I think? (meaning, away from downtown) you will run into the BEST variety of designer, vintage, local shops in Amsterdam. Writing this post I found out that this area has a real name: The 9 Streets (described by google as “a quaint, picturesque canal-district area featuring vintage & designer boutiques, plus cozy cafes” — and I couldn’t agree more)! It lasts a couple blocks so make sure you keep going! And then hit the few streets that run parallel, also AMAZING (specifically Keizersgracht & Berenstraat, sooooo goooood).

Deets about each store are on bookmarks below but a few of my top stores are: Essentiel Antwerp, PRJCT AMS, Hope, SMAACK, Salon Heleen Hülsmann, Pretty Things.

Pluk Cafe & Shop

Beers from De Bierkoning // Picnic in Vondelpark

What to Do

Picnic 👉🏼Van Gogh Museum
Of course the Van Gogh Museum is on everyone’s list but picnicking in Vondelpark beforehand is a tip I hope to add to your experience! Grab the goods from a store on the way because picnics aren’t just for Paris! After all, Amsterdam has quite the cheese market of their own.

Red Light District
Definitely worth a walk through but beware, don’t stop and stare…the ladies don’t like that! Go at night, the better girls come out then and it’s way more crowded, you’ll feel less awkward.

Tulips (if you’re there March – May)
I had this on my list, since it’s prob the most instagrammable thing to do in Amsterdam haha, but unfortunately I wasn’t there during the right time 😫 please go for me! (Tulips are the best mid-April…Should I go back?!?!) 😜🌷

BTW for any of you photographers out there Key Color Photo Lab is where I got a bunch fo film from my Europe trip developed. 24-hour turnaround (most places around Europe are 1 week), friendly staff and super happy with how my film turned out.