Yes Way Rosé: Jumping on the Frosé Trend

A few weeks ago a new word entered my cocktail vocabulary: Frosé. One of my good friends introduced me to a summer cocktail that is taking the East Coast by storm. She shared this recipe over a girls dinner and the vote was unanimous--Frosé is here to stay and West Coast friendly.

So, what is this drink and what makes it special?  A take on Rose, Frosé is the Elsa to the pink vino sisterhood. It's simple to make and incredibly refreshing during the summer heat. It does take a little planning to account for freeze time, but the rosé can be frozen in advance to cut down on prep time. Below is the recipe we used derived from Rick Martinez/ Bon Appetit magazine.

We hope you enjoy and it is equally as great sans alcohol with spritzer and lemonade as the frozen base.

Cheers,

K&M

 

Frozè (Frozen Rosè)

Ingredients

SERVINGS: MAKES 4–6

• 1 750 ml bottle hearty, bold rosé (such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot rosé)
• 1/2 c sugar
• 8 ounces strawberries, hulled, quartered
• 1/2 c fresh lemon juice

Preparation

• Pour rosé equally divided into three ziplock quart bags and freeze until almost solid (it won't completely solidify due to the alcohol), at least 3-6 hours. Like Sangria, the quality of the rosé does not have to be high.

• Meanwhile, bring sugar and ½ cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Add strawberries, remove from heat, and let sit 30 minutes to infuse syrup with strawberry flavor. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl (do not press on solids); cover and chill until cold, about 30 minutes.

• Scrape rosé into a blender. Add lemon juice, 1/2 c strawberry syrup, and 1 c crushed ice and purée until smooth. Transfer blender jar to freezer and freeze until frosé is thickened (aim for milkshake consistency), 25–35 minutes.

• Blend again until frosé is slushy. Divide among glasses. Garnish with mint or basil.

Ladies Who Picnic: An Afternoon with Taylor Stitch

One part of our job that Megan and I love is connecting people with local emerging brands and products.  What makes it even more exciting is championing women who are making their mark in business locally. The Bay Area has a unique talent pool of movers and shakers, but what we love best about the friends we've made over the years is their passion and grounded sensibility in building a greater community.

This Spring we caught wind that Taylor Stitch was bringing their "California cool" to the world of women's fashion and knew we had to jump on the bandwagon. When Megan and I saw their intro Indigo collection, we loved the quality, price points and easy of mix and matching pieces. These are clothes that you'll want to wear everyday. 

So we decided to gather up a group of our favorite ladies in SF to "power picnic" and try out Taylor Stitch's newest threads together.  When else do we get to sip rose with girlfriends and play dress up? Our gal pal, Theresa Lee, also joined the party and brought along her socially conscious line of Future Glory bags to complete our styling vision. They are handmade and incredible!

Below are a few snaps of our favorite looks on a group of ladies who make everything oh so lovely and always fun! A special thanks to Nathaniel Gerdes for capturing the moments and Jenny Meyers for lending a hand behind the scenes.

Make sure to check out the Taylor Stitch website to see their complete women's and men's lines. If you are new to the Taylor Stitch concept, they have two purchase methods: discounted crowdfunded workshop pre-purchase and retail ready to go. If you want to make one of these pieces your own, be sure to sign up with your email on the Taylor Stitch website and receive 20% off your first purchase.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

What We Are Wearing:

• Theresa: Sausalito Pocket Tee ($48), Isla Chambray Pant ($98), Madewell Oxfords (similar), Goorin Hat **The pants are now funded, so sign up for a retail purchase reminder)
• Nnena: Venice Dress ($168), Sunhee Moon Skinny belt ($88)
• Megan: Kimono Wrap ($158), Jigsaw Lace Camisole ($45), Natural Denim Greenwhich Pant ($128)
• Kimberly: Kathrine Indigo Striped Shirt ($125), Mira Dress ($118), 
• Melissa:  Orinda Silk Blouse (in production, sign up for purchase reminder), Greenwhich Chambray Pants ($128), Goorin Straw Hat (similar)
• Cassie: Denim jacket (similar), Luciana necklace ($58), Loma Dress in Olive ($168), Goorin Hat (Similar)

Summer Travel: Waterproof Makeup To Beat the Heat

We've been talking a lot this month about summer travel. Part of that is easy summer makeup that has staying power and won't let you down after a day on the go.

Between the two of us, we've admittedly tried tons of products to see what really works. Kimberly's sticking point has always been finding a good waterproof mascara that doesn't dry out her lashes.  For Megan, it's a tinted foundation that doesn't clog her pores.

Here are our five favorite waterproof beauty products to stock up on this summer to keep your face in place. They are great for travel, and when used together all you need to create a flawless face.

1. Lancome Grandiose Waterproof Mascara, $32
On hot and humid days, use a volume-building mascara like this one that doesn't bleed under your eyes.

2. Avene High Protection Tinted Compact SPF 50, $29
This hardworking sunscreen covers like foundation, is 100% mineral-based and paraben- and fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin.

3. Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee, $22
These bright cheek stains go on sheer, allowing you to build up to the color level that you want. They have a creamy consistency, are hydrating and will last up to 14 hours.

4. Benefit BadGal Waterproof Eyeliner, $20
With a creamy texture that glides on easily, this pencil has great staying power. You can swim or hit the gym in it and walk away without any smudging.

5. Makeup For Ever Aqua Rouge Liquid Lipstick, $24
Created for the Parisian Aquatic Ballet, this liquid lipstick has the long-lasting hold of a lip stain and the shine of a gloss. It's waterproof, highly pigmented and smudge-proof.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

Made in Spain: Our Summer Shoe Favorites

Admittedly, one of the main reasons I was excited to travel to Spain this past spring was the chance to pick up a few pairs of well made shoes. Italy is known as the spot for fashionable leather shoes, but Spain also has a long and beautiful history of shoe making. 

Here are some of my favorite Spanish shoe brands and styles. Most European everyday shoes are designed for walking and keep comfort and quality top of mind. Because they are designed for the carefree Mediterranean life style, they are perfect for Bay Area Summers.

Stay Stylish,

K

Castell

Castell is a Spanish shoe manufacturer based on the island of Minorca. I picked up these while in Sevilla this May and instantly fell in love with how comfortable they are. The classic unisex Menorquinas style is designed for boating (they grip and will not scuff) and walking on cobblestones. I love the camel color that matches with just about everything, but they also come in fun fashion shades and stripes.

Castell Menorquinas in Camel leather, $114

Pikolinos

Known as a high quality Spanish comfort brand, these pair of Pikolinos are the lightest weight wedges I have ever owned.  What I loved most about these shoes is that they required no "break in" time. They were comfortable enough to wear on long walks across town and easily packed up in a day bag.  Pikolinos also makes wonderful fashion forward shoes for men!

Pikolinos Bali Sandal, $108 currently ON SALE

CASTAÑER

A family owned company started in 1927, this brand is recognized around the globe as a mainstay in espadrille design.  Fashion mavens have been sporting these lace up styles in full force this season.  Fringe and pom poms have made their way into the fashion styles and add a fun touch of whimsy for summer. We love that Castaner espadrilles come in several different heel heights for comfort, hello happy feet.

Paulina Espadrille, $115 ON SALE

Carpia 8, $245

Camper

The wild child of Spanish shoe brands this company founded in 1975 is not afraid to march to the beat of its own drum. Another great brand devoted to comfort, Camper is known for its quirky and unique designs. We love these summer sneakers for guys that are a lighter take on the high top.

Andratx, $95 ON SALE

Summer Sun Story: How to Stay Stylish and Protected

Megan and I are big advocates for protecting your skin from sun damage which causes skin cancer and premature aging.  Living in San Francisco it is easy to forget that even though our summers are not full of sunshine, we are still susceptible to its rays.

Here are some of our favorite products this season that are good for you and keep you looking cool in and out of the sun.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

The Base Coat- We love the simple goodness of SuperGoop. An oil-free, water-resistant daily-use sunscreen with SPF 50 designed to defend skin from photoaging and dehydration in addition to environmental stressors. This kit covers you from head to toe and is perfectly sized to toss in your beach bag or keep in your car.

SuperGoop Day to Day Set, $45

Eye Got You- The newest addition to the Aspire Eyewear collection is every bit sleek as it is comfortable. It's important to invest in eyewear that will protect your eyes from UVB/UVA rays.  These lightweight specs also come with an option to use your own prescription, so you will be in the clear with sharp vision in the sun.

Aspire Famous Sunglasses, 

Cover Your Head-Though not a technical UPF product, hats of all types have been a popular accessory the last few years.  Jump on the trend while shielding your scalp and hair. The functionality of both of these Unisex styles are perfect for adding a little flare to your beach look.

Goorin Summertime, $90

Goorin Cayo Classic Brim Fedora Hat, $60

UPF Clothing- This category has come a LONG way in aligning to current fashion trends. Rashguards have been growing in popularity among all ages. They can be worn in and out of the water and are breathable and sweat-wicking. For UPF clothing out of the water, we love the soft comfort of SPFAddict shirts for men and women. 

Athleta Pacifica UPF Hoodie $59

SPFAddict Defendant Button-down Shirt, $37.50

Saying Goodbye to a Legend: Bill Cunningham

Bill Cunningham, legendary New York Times style photographer, has always been an idol of mine. And like so many people, his passing away this past weekend left me feeling like there was now a huge gap in the fashion world. I remember when his documentary Bill Cunningham New York came out in 2010. I saw it twice in the theater and over the years have watched it at least another dozen times. Every time I've visited New York, I've always hoped to catch him on his bike, wearing his blue smock, snapping away at people on the street. 

Anna Wintour once said, "We all get dressed for Bill." He didn't love the trends in the showrooms, he loved what people were wearing on the street. And after 40 years of capturing style pictures for The Times, he will be missed from coast to coast. 

If you aren't familiar with this amazingly humble man, with a brilliant eye, who loved real people and the style they presented, read this New York Times article.

And now I am off to watch Bill Cunningham New York one more time.

Stay stylish,
M

Minimalist Travel Special Edition: The Beauty Bag

As a follow up to my minimalist travel blog, Megan and I thought it would be fun to include the beauty products I took abroad.  These were also subject to my strict "less is more" travel philosophy.  While traveling I like to have fun with the beauty products I bring, because when you are away from home and "roughing it" by SF standards a little luxury is nice.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Tips for Travel Toiletries:

1.) Save Your Samples for Traveling! Stop by Sephora or local beauty department and have them make you a sample of your go-to foundation and primer. The small containers are perfect for getting through security, lighten your load and should last a week or two. Sephora is also great for more substantial samples on your birthday--so this year I opted for the Fresh duo to save for traveling. 

2.) Ziplock Snack Bags Keep You Organized These are perfect for keeping your toiletries clean and sorted. I usually group toiletries by end use. All my eye make up goes in one bag, moisturizer and foundation in another so getting ready is easy.

3.) Look for Multi-purpose Products A friend got me hooked on the O'ccitane Almond Shower Oil which hydrates as it cleanses--but it also acts as a great shave gel.

4.) Say NO to Bad Hair Days After years of using drug store shampoo/conditioner miniatures or hotel offerings I've upgraded products. Water quality is different around the globe. Having a good conditioner to combat harsher environments is a nice luxury to have. Enjoy is my current favorite mini that I refill with larger bottles at home.

5.) Try Something New I make it a habit to try out a new scent sample or rollerball when I take a big trip. When I return that smell always reminds me of my vacation and it's a fun way of extending the memory. Spain meant citrus to me, so I got a Fresh Hesperides Grapefruit Rollerball. I found it was pretty light, so I recommend layering it with their lotion.

**Photo thanks to Kelsey Johnson

Father's Day: Our Favorite Picks For Dad

Megan and I agree that the best gift is time spent together, but sometimes that's not always possible.

Here are a few of our favorite gifts to celebrate the dad in your life and treat him to something practical and personal this Sunday.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Grooming- Keep Dad looking sharp with a membership to Dollar Shave Club. They deliver high-quality razors and grooming products every month, including face moisturizer with sunscreen.

Tech - Help Dad stay focused and get motivated to be with Fitbit Flex—a slim, stylish device that tracks all-day activity like steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned and active minutes.

Taste - Send dad a subscription to a beer club and he'll get a selection of beers each month from Craft Beer Club. If he is local, four bottle shops in San Francisco offer an alternative to this mail order club, including Healthy Spirits and Plumpjack Wines.

Style -We love the nod to traditional tortoise shell glasses but updated in a modern steel color way. These shades from Jack Spade are perfect for keeping Dads of all ages smart and squint-free this summer.

Blog Roundup: Who is Inspiring Us Right Now

If you're following us on Twitter, you know that we find inspiration everywhere from a latte at Reveille to a new exhibit at the de Young. We also love observing street style and seeing what other people are wearing and how they are wearing it.

So to get you through hump day, we've compiled a list of our top blogs to go to for inspiration. They range from home decor to style and photography. Enjoy and let us know your favorites too!

• Garance Dore - The visual diary of fashion photographer, writer & illustrator Garance Dore.  
• Girl With Curves - Tanesha Awasthi serves up outfit inspiration, makeup turorials and style advice. 
• The Violet Fog - A daily online publication based in the Bay Area for busy women who are big supporters of other women.
• The Glitter Guide - A lifestyle website dedicated to inspiring you to shine brightly in everything you do. 
• Fashion Mews - One-part SF, two-part NYC, Fashion Mews is a visual diary full of style, photography and travel.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

Travel Essentials: Our Non Negotiable Carry-Ons

The Canvas Team has been on the go lately traveling domestically and abroad. Traveling can be stressful with unknown delays and last minute gate changes. We recently sat down to share what's in our carry-ons to keep us polished and ready for the next adventure. 

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Megan:
After wanting one for awhile, I finally committed to getting a backpack. I chose Everlane's new Dipped Zip Backpack because I liked the built-in padded laptop pocket and the all black body. WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG?!? I usually travel with my dog, and this backpack made carrying her and my essentials a breeze. Plus it fit right under the seat and was easy to access. Inside I always carry my:

• Earthlust resuable water bottle
• Arbonne shea butter hand lotion 
• BareMinerals Jack of all Trades lip balm
• Sephora herbal rose blotting papers

Kimberly: My carry-on has gone through a major revamp after my last trip. I used to carry too much due to a fear of lost luggage. Now that I'm all about carrying on my suitcase, I don't need to carry as much in my allotted personal bag. Here are my favorite items that make flying much more enjoyable.

• Contigo water bottle with hook
• Aesop hand balm
• Eucerin lip balm
• Noise Isolating earphones
• Herban Essentials lavender antibacterial towelettes

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