Absolutely Monica

Urban Girls Garage Sale - March 17, 2013

2013-03-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

After learning about this event taking place this Sunday in Belltown, I decided I should join in and that I am way overdue for a major closet purge and an opportunity to sell some fabulous garments, most of which are new or with tags. I posted a selection of shoes earlier this week, but this is only a tiny amount of what I am prepared to let go of.

Unfortunately I found out last night that I would only have an area for one 6’ table, and one garment rack at the sale. Ack. I probably should have purchased two spaces. So with that, I have no idea where to take all of these things and I’ll only be bringing a small selection to the Urban Girls Garage Sale on Sunday. I will likely bring them to a consignment store in the next few weeks.

Here’s a sample of what I have.. .Most clothes are sized from US 8-12 and M-XL. If there is something listed below that you are interested in, please contact me and I’d be happy to bring it to the sale!

Also, I will have bins full of clothes and accessories that will be priced at $2, $5 and $10– some are new, some are lightly used. I am sure there is something for everyone!

Ann Taylor

Anthropologie

BCBG Max Azria

Betsey Johnson
Custo Barcelona
Dana Buchman

Diane Von Furstenberg
DKNY
ECI New York

Elie Tahari
Ella Moss

Free People

Juicy Couture
Laundry by Shelli Segal
Marc by Marc Jacobs

Max Studio
Missoni

Nanette Lepore

Nicole Miller
Ralph Lauren

Rebecca Taylor

Robert Rodriguez
Sharagano
Stella McCartney
Tadashi

Theory

Tracy Reese & Plenty by Tracy Reese

Trina Turk
Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Anthropologie

2013-03-14T12:14:00.000-07:00

A sample of Anthropologie clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

LA Made Grand Island Dress - Size XL (New)

Tocca Dress - Size 8 (New)

Tom K Nguyen Lace Blouse - Size M (New)

Tom K Nguyen pink and silver lace blouse - Size M (New)

Tom K Nguyen Chiffon Wrap Blouse - Size M (New)

Corey Lynn Calter - Metallic bow knit cardigan - Size L (New)

Corey Lynn Calter - Black chiffon cardigan - Size L (New)

Zelie - chiffon flower tank - Size L (New)

Til The End - Chiffon blouse - Size L (New)

Emma Black embroidered blouse - Size L (New)

Size L (New)

Yoana Baraschi - Size L (New)

Bailey 44 - Size L

Lulu- set - Size L (New)

Charlotte Tarantola - Size XL (New)

Beth Bowley - Size M (New)

Size M (New)

Lace Vest - Size 14 (New)

Central Park West - Lace blouse - Size L (New)

Ivory - Satin blouse - Size L (New)

Til The End - Size L (New)

Lace Cardigan - Size XL (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Other Brands...

2013-03-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

A sample of clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale. this list will continually be updated throughout the next days. check back for updates!

Nicole Miller Dress - Size 8 (New) Reg. $400

Kenneth Cole Blouse Size 12

Celine Gold/Black blouse Size 42 (New)

Custo Barcelona Tank Size 4/L (New)

Gsus Dress Size L (New)

Juicy Couture Embroidered Maxi Dress - Size XL (New)

Max Studio Dress Size XL (New)

Missoni Sweater Size 42 (New)

Sparrow Virgin Mary Tank Size L (New)

Nine West Striped blouse Size 12 (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Trina Turk

2013-03-14T12:02:00.001-07:00

A sample of Trina Turk clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Top - Size L (New) & Skirt Size 10 (New)

Size L (New)

Size L

Size 10 (New)

Size L

Size L (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Elie Tahari

2013-03-14T11:58:00.001-07:00

A sample of Elie Tahari clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Size 12 (New)

Size L

Size L (New)

Size 12 (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Tracy Reese

2013-03-14T11:55:00.003-07:00

A sample of Tracy Reese and Plenty by Tracy Reese clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Tracy Reese - beaded chiffon and metallic dress - sizes 8 & 10 (new)

Plenty by Tracy Reese - floral print dress - Size 6 (New)

Tracy Reese - Brown satin lace and velvet skirt - Size 8 (New)

Tracy Reese - Black sheer chiffon skirt with nude slip - Size 12 (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Rebecca Taylor

2013-03-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

A sample of Rebecca Taylor clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Rebecca Taylor - Silk Floral Blouse - Size 12 (New)

Rebecca Taylor - Pink sweater cami - Size L (New)

Rebecca Taylor - beaded chiffon tank - Size 8 (New)

Rebecca Taylor - Silk Floral Blouse - Size 8 (New)

Rebecca Taylor - Crystal beaded Sweater - Size L (New)

Rebecca Taylor - Silk Cami - Size 10 (New)

Rebecca Taylor - Blush lace wrap blouse - Size 10 (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Marc Jacobs

2013-03-14T11:03:00.002-07:00

A sample of Marc Jacobs clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Marc by Marc Jacobs - blue striped blouse - Size 12 (New)

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Cotton voile floral print tank - Size 12 (New)

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Navy wrinkled satin cami - Size 10 (New)

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Red spotted chiffon skirt with ruffle train - Size 8 (New) (reg. $268)

Marc by Marc Jacobs - silk floral cami Size 12 (new)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - BCBG Max Azria

2013-03-14T10:58:00.006-07:00

A sample of BCBG Max Azria clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Size L

Size 10 (New)

Size 12 (New)

Size L (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Diane Von Furstenberg

2013-03-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

A sample of Robert Rodriguez clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Diane Von Furstenberg -"Deco Dance" ballerina caped blouse - Size 10 (New)

Diane Von Furstenberg - "Violet Tulip" Silk Satin Wrap Blouse - Size 12 (New)

Diane Von Furstenberg - Sheer embroidered Chiffon Blouse - Size 8

(sold with coordinating On Gossamer mesh cami)

Diane Von Furstenberg - Parasol print chiffon top - Size 10 (New)

Diane Von Furstenberg - Paisley Print Chiffon blouse - Size 10 (New)

Diane Von Furstenberg - "Fragonard Rose" floral print chiffon blouse - Size 12 (new)

Diane Von Furstenberg - "Fragonard Rose" floral print chiffon dress - Size 10 (new)

Diane Von Furstenberg - Silk striped dress - Size 12 (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Robert Rodriguez

2013-03-14T10:13:00.002-07:00

A sample of Robert Rodriguez clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Robert Rodriguez - layered cardigan with lace trim - Blue Haze - Size L (New)

Robert Rodriguez - Blush linen pants with crystals and embroidered details - Size 12 (New)

Robert Rodriguez - White embroidered silk voile skirt with beaded belt - Size 12 (New)

Robert Rodriguez - Blush Rose ribbed tank with crystals - Size M (New)

Robert Rodriguez - Embroidered double layer tank - Sea Green - Size L (New)

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Nanette Lepore

2013-03-14T09:57:00.002-07:00

A sample of Nanette Lepore clothes that I am brining to the Urban Girls Garage Sale:

Nanette Lepore Dress - Taupe shimmer - Size 12 (New)

Nanette Lepore "The Spinner's Dress" - Ivory - Size 12 (New)

Nanette Lepore Brown Satin Shell - Size 8 (New)

Nanette Lepore Floral Print Blouse - Size 12 (New)

Nanette Lepore "Bow Front Shell" - Lilac - Size 12 (New) Retail $180

Nanette Lepore "Shirred Front Tee" - Coral - Size L (New) Retail $100

Nanette Lepore "Shirred Front Tee" - Blush - Size L (New) Retail $100

Urban Girls Garage Sale - Shoes! Shoes! Shoes!

2013-03-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

Dare I part with my shoe collection? No.. but there are some I have worn maybe once or twice, and some that I have never worn... It's time to let them go! Here's a small sample of what I will be selling.

Getting shoes ready for the sale!

Feel free to contact me if you are interested in purchasing any of these shoes before the sale. If any of them do not sell on Sunday, I'll be taking them to a local (Seattle) consignment store within the next couple weeks. I haven't set prices yet, and will be doing this during the week. Designer Shoes (Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Louboutins, Dolce & Gabbana, etc) will be priced between $100-$400. Non Designer (Nine West, Via Spiga, BCBG, Guess, Stuart Weitzman, etc) will be priced between $15 - $150.

Jimmy Choo Kerala Brocade Bow Mules size 39 (US 8/8.5)

Silver and brown brocade fabric with small rhinestone details on the bows. I only wore these once, so they are in extremely good condition! They come with the original box, and I think I have the dust bag as well.

Alexander McQueen Pumas - size 39 (US 8/8.5)

Leather and mesh, brand new, in the original box... these were purchased at a charity event, but I never wore them!

Christian Louboutin Red embroidered pumps - size 39 (US 8/8.5)

These gorgeous shoes are brand new, and I am parting with them simply because I haven't worn them, and don't know that I will. a little sad to see them go!

Jimmy Choo Red Kid 986 Sandals - Size 39.5 (US 9)

New in the box, with the dust bag... These were a gift a long long time ago, from an ex, and they are a 1/2 size too big for me. I tried to find a way to make them work, but they are just too big.

Nine West Blush Patent Leather Platforms - size 8.5M

Brand new, pristine...These are too gorgeous to not add to this post... I love these shoes, and purchased them online. They are too narrow for my feet and wearing them would have been a nightmare. I didn't return them in time to meet the return window, so they've been sitting in my closet since.

Miu Miu Black ribbon Raso Chic Sandals - size 39 (US 8/8.5)

New, in the box... again, another pair that I haven't worn. Pretty satin ruffled ribbon bows. high stiletto heel. Sad to see them go, but know I will never wear them.

Manolo Blahnik C Guptam Tan Mules - 39.5 (US size 9)

I purchased these in Portland when Saks was open a little over a year ago. I've worn these twice, and I don't think I'll be wearing them again. They are in great condition!

Manolo Blahnik Roon Calf Sandals in Black - size 39 (US 8/8.5)

Worn twice, and comes with the box and dust bag. These are fairly comfortable considering the 4" stiletto heel. They are simple, classic, but I have so many black sandals, it's time to let these go!

Urban Girl Garage Sale! Sunday, March 17, 2013

2013-03-04T22:14:00.000-08:00

So, it's finally time for MAJOR closet purge. After seeing an ad for an upcoming event, I've decided to take part in an event called the Urban Girl Garage Sale! It's happening in Belltown on March 17, 2013. Over the next few days I will be posting some previews of what I will be selling.. of course if anyone is interested in anything, please contact me! :)

The sale is taking place on Sunday, March 17, 2013
9am-11am - VIP Only - tickets can be purchased to attend the VIP event
11am-2pm - Open to all!

The venue is at 1927 Events located in the Belltown/Downtown area at 1927 3rd Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98101

Find more information about the event at:
http://www.urbangirlsgaragesale.com

You can RSVP through their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/156226077865034/

Hope to see you there!

Stylish Comfort Shoes and Boots - Do They Even Exist?

2013-02-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that I am not a “comfort shoe” kind of girl, I love my Louboutins, and Manolos and anything that will give me 4-5 inches of height! But at the same time, I have been known to rock some Dansko boots, or peruse a Walking Company store from time to time, just in case they have something for me. This usually results in a wasted effort and I walk away with nothing. Most comfort shoes are horrendous. Most are chunky, and heavy, and resemble orthopedic prescription shoes, and they are for the most part, just plain ugly.

We frequent Vegas, and I am past the era of trying to get around that town in 5 inch stilettos. I am short, (5’4”) so I still want a heel, and besides that, most flats hurt my feet after only a few hours. I bought a pair of Frye Veronica Slouch boots, and wore these all around Vegas to break them in and they were fabulous.

Frye Veronica Slouch boots

So a recent trip to London, I thought the Frye boots would be my go to shoes for traipsing around and touring about… WRONG. I ended up with blisters at least 2 inches in diameter on the back of both heels the first day we were there. I could feel the pain starting, but didn’t look until I returned to my hotel. ACK! WTF was I going to do? It was only day 1 of an 11 day trip. I was staying near Heathrow without a car and the only other shoes I had were my Hunter rain boots, and pumps for work. Great.

My heels hurt so much, I wasn’t going to be able to go shopping for hours looking for comfortable walking shoes , but I did manage to make it to a Boots (pharmacy/drugstore) and bought some fabulous blister pads that were large enough to cover the blisters. But my heels still hurt. Being jet lagged and unable to sleep, I started looking online. I found a great UK site that provided free overnight shipping and returns, and they also sell a brand that my Husband’s Mom loves. Rieker.

The style of Rieker shoes can be hit or miss. Some are terribly ugly, some have too much of a comfort shoe aesthetic. Last summer I tried my first pair of Riekers, and they were fabulous. But the style selection in the states has only been ok at best. One thing I have realized is that all of them, including flats and heels, are extremely comfortable. More comfortable than any shoe I have ever worn, including athletic shoes. Knowing this, I am still not willing to sacrifice style for comfort just yet.

Rieker Valentina Boots

As I perused the online selections in the UK, I came across the Rieker Valentina Boots and the Rieker Aurica Boots. I was hesitant, my calves are wider than the apparent average and often too large to fit into most stylish boots. But with free returns, I wasn’t too worried about taking a chance on them. I just wanted boots that would be suitable for miles and miles of walking, at this point, I was ready to compromise my style. For safe measure, I threw in a pair of Rieker Peggy Boots that I knew would be sufficient if the other two didn’t work out.

The boots arrived the next day and imagine my excitement when all of them fit perfectly! Not to mention the comfort! No need to break them in, and with the aid of the blister guards, I barely noticed any heel pain. I alternately wore them from that day forward for the entire trip which included thousands and thousands of steps all around central London. My male travel partners were surprised that I could keep up with them in heels no less, and not be complaining about my feet hurting.

I can’t say that Rieker shoes would be the solution for everyone, as each person’s needs differ. But these are definitely worth a try and they are sold all over the internet in the US, provided you can find a style you like! I still love my heels, but when planning for a lot of walking, Manolos aren’t going to work out so well. If you know of other brands that are worth trying, please, please let me know!

Rieker Anti-Stress Valentina Boots

2013-02-03T13:25:00.000-08:00

Rieker Anti-Stress Valentina Boots

So as I’ve stated in previous posts, I am not a big fan of synthetic leather. During a trip where I needed some comfortable boots, I decided to take a chance on the Reiker Valentina Boots and I am so glad I did! The heel is approximately 3.5 inches, with a good rubber sole. These are some of the most comfortable shoes I have owned, and kept my feet super comfortable during hours upon hours of walking and touring around London!

Can I tell they are fake leather? Yes… they don’t feel very substantial and actually feel a little cheap. However, every single time I have worn them, a random stranger gives me a compliment on my boots! Perhaps they can’t tell that these are fake leather with manufactured distressing? Regardless, they are so comfortable and they don’t sacrifice heel height. In my mind, it makes up for the fact that they are synthetic. I love these boots, I love the laces, I love the comfort. I am contemplating buying a second pair just in case I wear these out!

Anthropologie Caledonia Cutout Dress

2013-02-03T02:00:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie Caledonia Cutout Dress

We decided to spend the weekend in Portland and while out tax-free shopping I came across this dress on the sale rack. I am not a big fan of the cutout look on a dress, shirt, etc. But for some reason this dress had my name all over it. It’s fairly low cut, so I will need to find a tank to wear under it for work… But it’s also a dress with pockets! I love dresses and skirts with pockets! The fabric is a thick knit and stretchy. It’s cut generously, so sizing down isn’t a bad idea. It’s a great dress and very flattering!

Rieker Anti-Stress Peggy Boots

2013-01-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

Rieker Anti-Stress Peggy Boots

Hmm.. .I don’t know if I love the style of these.. But, they are super comfortable. They were purchased while in London, and at a great price, so I kept them. They make my legs look short if I wear them with a skirt, but if I wear pants it hides the cute straps. I needed them for the trip as I had a blister fiasco, and overall they have turned out to be a good throw on shoe for running around.

Rieker Anti-Stress Aurica Boots

2013-01-20T20:17:00.000-08:00

Rieker Anti-Stress Aurica Boots - Black

Another fantastic Rieker purchase! These are a low heel boot, but super comfortable and adjustable enough to fit on my wider calves. I was desperately looking for boots that would be extra comfortable for travel and extensive walking and Rieker shoes always fit the bill! Yes, some of the styles are horrible, but these were basic, black leather boots, exactly what I wanted!

The buckles are adjustable and will fit a wider calf without looking distorted. The heel is low at only about 2 inches and there's a slight platform. The leather is really soft, and on the thin, delicate side for leather. These boots took zero time to break in and I can definitely wear these on vacation or extensive walking!

Anthropologie Toggled Basel Sweater Coat by Fiets Voor 2

2012-12-30T22:09:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie Toggled Basel Sweater Coat by Fiets Voor 2

I have a sweater coat addiction. Each fall/winter Anthropologie has some kind of sweatercoat for sale, if not a few options. After finding the Toggled Basel Sweatercoat on sale, I grabbed the navy one without hesitation. I like it. It’s kind of weird that it’s one of those garments that has the faux cuff and hood that make it appear as if you’ve layered your clothes, but regardless, I still liked the sweater. The good – It’s flattering, although it has an A-line shape, and for some this may not be a good look, it decreases the focus on my bust, and falls to a good length. The only downfall, it seems to pill fairly easily. It runs a little large, but allows for tee or a sweater underneath.

Frye Veronica Slouch Boots - Extended Calf

2012-11-11T14:33:00.000-08:00

Frye Veronica Slouch Boots - Extended Calf in Brown

I have wide calves. It sucks. It sucks to never have owned a pair of knee high boots. It sucks to see so many cute styles and just keep walking on by, not even bothering to give them a chance. It sucked when I was in High School and everyone rocked knee high Doc Marten’s and I couldn’t wear them because the laces bulged. It’s also mortifying to be persuaded by a sales person into trying on a boot in the middle of a Christian Dior store and the two of you are trying to cram you leg into a boot that you know won’t fit. Yes, that’s me. As embarrassing as it is to even write this, it’s me.

On top of not being slim myself, I inherited the large calves from my Mom. (sorry to put you on blast Mom, but you know what I’m talking about.). Now we aren’t talking extra extra large calves, just larger than the “average”. 14-15” circumference? Forget it. I really hate the look of the elastic shaft boots with the stretchy material in the back or sides. Ugh. I also hate the look of most fake leather boots. Not to mention that my calves are actually too small for most plus sized boots. I am in this awkward in-between.

This fall I decided that someone out there has to have addressed this issue by now! Enter, the Frye Veronica Slouch Boots, available in both regular and extended calf sizes. Sounds like these have been around for awhile and I am late to the game, but OMG. FINALLY!! Boots that fit my calves!

The extended size is a little wide, but I am able to wear jeans tucked in, or extra socks. I think the circumference of the boots is probably relative to the size of your shoe. I am a solid EUR 39, so typically an 8.5 US. The circumference of the boots is around 16.5” for the 8.5. These are a little roomy in the foot area, but with the strap over the arch tightened, they work well. I can feel my heel slipping a little, but with socks, that goes away. I also tried the 8, which fit better in the calf, but was a little tight on my foot. The quality seems good, they seem like sturdy boots that will last for years to come!

UPDATE: The strap across the arch of my boot broke! I was tightening them down and it pulled out from the seam almost effortlessly. Fortunately Nordstrom repaired them for me, as opposed to replacing them with a new pair - I didn’t want a new pair to have to break in all over again!

2^nd UPDATE: After a recent vacation, and one day of heavy walking, I ended up with giant blisters on both heels. This is probably because the shoes have stretched through wearing them the past few months, and now my heel is slipping too much. I should have probably sized down to an 8. ugh. But they are still great for work, shopping, getting around on a regular day. Just maybe not right for travel or tons of walking.

Hunter Glossy Wedge Ankle Rain Boots

2012-10-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hunter Glossy Wedge Ankle Rain Boots in Black

I love stores like Nordstrom Rack! Where else can you find a pair of Hunter boots for $49.97? I tried these on and, wham, instant love. I love that I can splash around and not worry about where I step on rainy Seattle days! I can walk on wet grass, mud, well, wait, hopefully that was mud…. Anyways, I can rinse them off, or wash them, whatever. And it’s a wedge boot that is also really comfortable! I bought them in black and navy and keep one pair in my car, just in case! These clean up well with a warm damp cloth and soapy water. Fantastic!

Hunter Glossy Wedge Ankle Rain Boots in Navy Blue

$10 for $20 at Whole Foods!

2011-09-13T05:01:00.001-07:00

Awesome deal! You can use the link below to buy this if you're interested! This deal is only available for the next 24 hours so get it now! I don't see a restriction in the fine print for which locations this is valid for, I assume any location, but be sure to read the deal and any restrictions before you purchase it.

http://livingsocial.com/deals/123805?ref=iphone-conf-jp&rui=27812481

Recipe - Latin Chicken and Rice Casserole

2011-09-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Latin Chicken & Rice Casserole (Cuban style Arroz Con Pollo)

This recipe is adapted from an ex-boyfriend's recipe for a Cuban version of Arroz con Pollo. Seasoned chicken with bell peppers, onions, black beans and rice. This casserole is great with other veggies such as carrots, corn and celery too. I use a combination of white and brown rice, left over from a previous meal. This dish is easy to double up and freeze smaller portions to heat and serve for an even faster weekday meal.

Most vegetables will work with this recipe. If you have leftover sauteed cauliflower, corn, peas, etc. just add the already cooked veggies to the recipe.

View the recipe for Latin Chicken and Rice Casserole

Review - Piroshky, Piroshky - Seattle, WA

2011-09-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Piroshky, Piroshky - Seattle, WA

What better way to return to my blog than to rave about one of my favorite indulgences in Seattle! Piroshky, Piroshky in Pike Place Market... Not to be confused with other Piroshky spots scattered throughout the city. I think this spot might be the best one!

One of my favorite things to do on a Sunday morning is touring through Pike Place Market, precisely at 9:45 - before the crowds arrive and just as the vendors are done setting up for a 10am opening. I like to look in the windows I've walked by millions of times, smell the fresh baked goodies at Piroshky, Piroshky and Le Panier. However, if you wait too long to get your Piroshky fix, you end up in a line that moves quickly, but doesn't seem to end.

Menu at Piroshky, Piroshky

Although the menus are posted on the doors, it's often hard to decide what you want from the list. It's impossible to decide until after you enter the tiny little bakery and see the case of goodies ready to be devoured!

For under $5, you can treat yourself to an assortment of pastries. Sweet, savory, vegetarian, meat... All of them are fabulous. They are fast, and they are ready to take your order, without much time to sit and ponder the vast selection... I usually know if I want sweet or savory before I get inside, and I know if I can't decide what I want after looking, I will either get the Apple Cinnamon Roll or the Beef & Cheese Piroshky.

Apple Cinnamon Roll at Piroshky, Piroshky

This time, I decided I was craving something savory, so I went with the Beef and Cheese. It's hot and salty, with ground beef and cheese inside a raised doughnut like exterior. YUM! This one is easy to eat as you walk, since there is only a few seats in Piroshky, Piroshky. It's better to eat outside anyways... But we usually make our way through the market before the morning bustle.

Beef & Cheese Piroshky $4.65

If you're at the market, give them a try.... don't be too intimidated by the line, it moves fast, and be prepared to order quickly to keep that line moving!

Piroshky, Piroshky

1908 Pike Place

Seattle, WA 98101