So my date night looks have evolved quite a bit over the years. I remember in high school, it was low-rise jeans a dressy top. College years saw the height of my sundress obsession. Recently, my go-to date night look is a jumpsuit!
There’s something comfortable, yet so put together about a jumpsuit. In the past, I’ve worn strappy ones, long-sleeved ones, casual ones, and my latest is unique in it’s own right. I feel like this jumpsuit by Donna Morgan is a feminine and modern take on a tuxedo look. The black and white stunner has a dressy, strapless bodice and a wide, cropped leg. I love the dramatic and cascading ruffles that really take this look from simple to special. Lastly, I love the price!
To finish off my look, I added some glitzy and geometric earrings that really scream “Date Night!” All in all, this occasion look made a romantic evening in Charleston even more special. And… I didn’t break the bank!
When Jason and I left New York over a year ago, we were excited about the prospect of taking drivable trips and exploring the splendor of the South! Coming back to work after the holiday season can be tough, so we thought the end of January would be the perfect time to do a little getaway and revisit Charleston. We’d visited twice before, but it’s always great to see how a city has grown after a couple of years. I had also seen a a boutique hotel called Zero George that I was dying to visit, so visit is what we did!
Jason and I had the opportunity to stay at Zero George, and honestly it’s now my favorite property on the east coast. It reminded me of staying in an Italian villa with the most attentive staff, breathtaking scenery, and an unparalleled attention to detail. It’s a luxury hotel, but not in a stuffy way at all! The cozy spaces and idyllic rooms are elegant, but understated. From the champagne upon arrival (or at any time for that matter), to the Malin & Goetz products (my insta followers know they’re my favorite), to the nightly wine and cheese hour, the hotel has your comfort and every need in mind. Other details I loved included the complementary bikes, morning breakfast, refined furnishings, and the property itself. Jason and I would grab our evening glass of wine and chat with the lovely bartender, or hit the gorgeous beyond words Southern porch and cozy up under a heater. So romantic, yet so comfortable at the same time! Lastly, the best thing about the Zero George are the lovely people who work there. They truly epitomize Southern Hospitality and are willing to help, make recommendations, or simply have a nice chat at every turn. Because our stay was so enjoyable, Jason and I are already planning our next visit!
While Zero George was the highlight of our trip, the food was a close second. Because I’m such a planner, I had quite the variety of culinary spots on our itinerary. From French, to fried chicken, to Italian to seafood…we ate it all! Here are some of the places that made our Charleston tour of restaurants:
Fast & French – A local spot where we grabbed a quick bite upon arrival. It was a no frills space and packed with regulars who had their orders going as soon as they walked in. Their daily lunch specials include a salad and a glass of wine. My favorite part? The selection of Dijon mustards which I could literally put on anything. I had a baguette with brie and ham, white bean soup, and the quintessential glass of red wine.
Leon’s Fine Poultry and Oyster Shop – Literally the best fried chicken that I can remember. It’s spicy and sweet, and we had buttery grilled oysters and hush puppies with honey butter to boot. To wash it all down Jason and I had a couple glasses of frozé, because… why not? My mouth is starting to water just thinking about this place. Definitely a must if you are visiting!
Zero Restaurant & Bar – Nestled in our charming hotel is one of the best dining experiences Charleston has to offer. We had an elevated tasting menu with seasonal and local ingredients, featuring must-haves like the venison, beef wellington, and lamb shoulder ravioli. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention that I had the best dessert I’ve ever had in my life here: a coconut tres leches cake. Divine!
167 Raw – Quite possibly one of my new favorite restaurants of all time. Everyone you ask in Charleston will say this restaurant is a gem and literally worth the wait (there’s always a line)! Started as a counter with 4 seats, this seafood restaurant has expanded to around 20 seats where diners can enjoy the freshest oysters, ceviche, and the best lobster roll I’ve ever had in my life. AND remember, I go to the Hamptons every year for my birthday and lived in the Northeast! It’s a bold statement, but I stand by it. If you’re going to Charleston, please go here. You’ll thank me later!
So quite honestly, Jason and I didn’t do many traditional “activities” while on this trip. We really wanted to get away, enjoy different scenery, and just be in each other’s company. That being said, Charleston is the perfect place to wander down cobble-stone streets, pop into shops, and say “why yes, I would like another glass of wine.” Jason and I found ourselves strolling down King Street, riding bikes around the city, and making conversation with lovely locals and other visitors alike. Of course, I did some shopping – where two stores really stood out to me!
Celadon, located right over the bridge in Mount Pleasant is the most charming home and gifts store that had me with hands full within minutes. They have the most unique home accessories, furniture and treasures that had me thinking of ways to bring everything back to Atlanta. I left with the most gorgeous throw pillows and a couple cards for friends back in New York. On the apparel side, I fell in love with a boutique called Maris DeHart. Personally, I found it to be the best boutique in the city. While Charleston definitely has a preppy and Southern style, Maris DeHart brings a modern edge and fresh perspective to the scene. Everything is perfectly on-trend and at a great price point. I got a couple pieces that I can’t wait to share!
And there you have it… a little recap of our trip! I can’t say thank you enough to Zero George, Celadon, and all of the lovely people we met during our stay. If you are planning a trip to Charleston and need recommendations, or have any questions feel free to reach out! I can’t wait to plan my next trip back!
Thank you to Zero George and Celadon for partnering on this post!
Despite being not than long since the holiday, I feel like my gimme’s are strong in the month of January. Maybe it’s the new items for the new year, a desire for a fresh closet, or looking forward to Valentine’s Day! Here are some of the things that made my list for 2018 thus far!
1. I wore this in my recent Winter White and it’s the brightest, creamy shade of white that you can wear season after season. Plus, did you see the black collar? So Chic!
2. I just got my very own Quip recently, and I’m quite obsessed. Between the chic branding and the simple, yet uber functional design, it’s a winner. Plus, it feels like a luxurious improvement to daily life, but one that won’t break the bank.
3. Silky and sexy pajamas that will make bedtime feel like a luxe experience.
4. One of my favorite brands! Recently, I’ve been gifted a wider variety of products that I’ve had the pleasure to enjoy and I’m an absolute convert! My most recent find is the grapefruit face wash and lotion which smells and feels mild, but nourishing at the same time.
5. The daintiest gold ring to layer in with other sparkly pieces.
6. For those who loved the shape of the box bag in my recent post, but don’t want to break the bank! Can you believe this is less than $30! Wild!
