Dizzida

DIY Home Decor: String Lights String Art

2016-01-26T19:44:00.000-05:00

One day I am checking out all the sofas in the furniture showroom at Macy's and the next I find myself obsessing over not a sofa but the backdrop of one. It was essentially string art designed onto the wooden wall that gave an artsy feel, yet it was so simple. The hanging lights in the anterior added to the warm effect of the whole look, and I felt inspired to recreate a similar cozy feel in my apartment. I wanted a large art piece in my living room that was less than $100 (it was actually difficult to find one that would be personal and go well with my other furniture), so I decided to meld the ideas of nail string art and string lights.

Here is what triggered this DIY,

and below is what I came up with.

DIY Copper Geometric Reclaimed Wood String Lights String Art Wall Decor Home Decor

Measurement: 48 in. X 34-1/2 in.

Materials:
$1.98   Plastic drop cloth (Optional)
$1.98 * 7   Wood strips (8 ft.)
$5.58   Wood screws (1-1/4 in) (Count: 100, Used: 50)
$4.77   Wood stain - Minwax Special Walnut
$9.95 French cleat bracket (Holding 100 lb. minimum)
$12.70   Copper slating nails (1-1/4 in.) (Count: 80, Used: 42)

$33.49 Copper wire LED starry string lights (165 ft.)

$3.47 Wallboard anchors (8 sets)
  Sandpaper
  Sanding block
  Rag/Sponge brush
Power drill
Hammer
String/yarn/twine (Optional)

I already found a sponge brush and some sandpaper at home, and used a small cardboard box as my sanding block to lower my costs, so my total after taxes ended up being about $88.65. Now, that might seem like a lot, but the piece you create can be budgeted cheaper depending on what you already have and whether or not you HAVE to have copper nails or 165 feet of copper wired string lights like I had to. If you have the means to tear apart free wooden pallets, go right ahead. If you know a better way to hang up heavy objects, then great, and hey, please let me know! For taking up the sad, empty space above my sofa, I'd say I'm pretty satisfied with the result.

It took about a week to create, since I waited to buy lights the moment after I figured out the length I would use. However, this project can definitely be completed in a couple days with proper planning and the materials being bought all at once.

Do It Yourself:
Step 1: Have Lowes cut five of the furring strips in half and two cut in thirds (for free!)

Step 2: You'll want to lay out a plastic drop cloth if indoors.

Step 3: Sand the wood and wipe it off.

Step 4: Practice staining the 1/3 strips using the sponge brush until you find a color you like, but make sure you stir the can first. Using a rag after helps remove any excess. I added water and a meager amount of stain for the first strip, a little water and dipped the sponge a quarter of the way for the second, and a very generous amount for the third. I chose to go for a color between strip #2 and strip #3. Stain all the wood and let dry for at least 8 hours. Also, this stuff really smells, so open windows are a must!

Step 5: Line up the wood strips as preferred. Flip them over, place five or six of the 1/3 strips vertically as a support, and drill in the wood screws in a zig-zag pattern. Then, secure in the french cleat bracket at the top.

Step 6: Flip over, measure out where you want your nails, and hammer them in leaving about 3/4 in. out of the wood.

Step 7: (Skip if already bought string lights) Use your string to create a rough draft of the string art and measure the length you will need.

Step 8: *VERY IMPORTANT* Untangle the string lights before using. Trust me, it will be worth the time, as it will save you from a lot of otherwise, unnecessary frustration. I wrapped mine around a book. Gently wrap the string lights around the outer nails first to create a border. I don't recommend untwisting and re-twisting them too many times, as that might break the wire.

Step 9: Once your design is fabulous, test it out by turning the lights on. If you have drywall, to hang it on the wall, you have to manually screw in the wallboard anchors (drilling them in won't work, I tried!) and then the back of the french cleat bracket. Use the screws that come with the anchors and not the cleat.

Tips:
Try to leave a very small gap between the lower wood strips so that you can hide the end of the wire behind the wood. This helps maintain the clean look of the rectangle border shape. I'm so pleased with how the art piece turned out and if I were to do it over, there are minor changes I would make. First off, I would make sure to stain all the 1/3 strips used as the back support and have the stained part facing front (opposite of what I did) in case it is visible through any gaps. My rough draft looked really cool, so I got overly excited with 165 feet of string lights, but I didn't realize then that it would have a totally different, somewhat cluttered look from afar, once the lights were on. Using a shorter length and increasing the space between the copper nails might be the way to form a more geometric design with more wood revealed. If I change my design now, I would have to risk the wires breaking, so my perfectionist self is just going to have to be restrained until my next DIY.

Considering I had never worked with wood before, it was a fairly uncomplicated and not so lengthy project I would recommend to those searching for starry, personalized wall decor.

Theta Phi Alpha Paddle

2015-02-19T17:15:00.005-05:00

Going Greek at Florida Atlantic University, I wasn't obliged to make a paddle for my Big sister. However, I would not pass up an opportunity to craft and express to someone special how much he/she means to me. After receiving many gifts leading up to the Big/Little Reveal, I knew that a personalized paddle would return some of the favors and uphold the old traditions of the sorority. It was more than just an overnight paint job, but the reward of watching your Big drool over your thoughtful creation is priceless. I decided to create an original background design with my sister's favorite colors and added a mirror, florals, and pearls (symbol of our sisterhood). Just make sure you do a final overall check, because I only realized I forgot to glue down an important wood piece until after I delivered the incomplete paddle!

{Front} {Back}

Theta Phi Alpha Paddle

Thanks For The Memories | DIY Graduation Cap

2015-02-19T03:34:00.000-05:00

Thanks For The Memories DIY Graduation Cap

It's girly, it's witty, it's CAPtivating from near and far. Looks complicated, right? Well, looks can be deceiving. All it took was one quick run to Michael's to gather the supplies and a similar example on Pinterest to guide my design. Sure it took hours until the final result, but that's only due to the gluing and cutting of paper part. This is my personal decorated cap from graduating college in December. If you're about to receive that diploma, hats off to you, too, and your bright, bedazzled future!

Supplies:
Floral embellishments
Thickers (Delight)
Glitter scrapbook paper
Mint scrapbook paper
Pearl stickers
Hot glue gun
Mod podge
Scissors

Steps:
1. Trace the background paper of your choice and cut
2. The hardest part: poke a hole in the center, then cut an X and push through the tassel button
3. Hot glue gun the edges of the background paper to the cap, one edge at a time (as hot glue dries super fast!)
4. Very important: check the cap to make sure the design starts from the front (as worn) top diagonal section
5. Place Thickers on carefully until desired shape achieved (after, apply solid pressure to ensure they will stay put)
6. Lay out florals and hot glue them down
7. Cut out and glue Greek letters using other scrapbook paper
8. Mod podge the pearls (tweezers help)
9. Stare at your masterpiece for days ;)

Splashing Into Spring | Spring Break Outfits

2015-02-19T02:39:00.002-05:00

Whether you'll be going on a trip to Mexico or sailing on a Caribbean cruise, if the weather permits, you will want to be taking advantage of the start of the new season. You're also going to have to look the part of a spring breaker in order to soak up the sun and relax. There are many reoccurring clothing pieces every Spring, which totally works in everyone's favor in terms of mixing and matching, and here are some must haves on my list that never go out of style:

{The Classy Printed Bikini}

Lotus Lace Hawaii Floral Bikini Set by Sauvage from Bikini Luxe

{The White Crochet Cover Up Dress}

Puppet Crochet Front Dress from SWELL

{The Fun Floppy Hat}

Stud-Trim Floppy Hat from Urban Outfitters

{The Smooth Sunglasses}

QUAY About Last Night Sunglasses - Tortoise from Inbetween Tangerine

{The Oh My Maxi Dress}

Beaded Beauty Dress from Free People

{The Gypsy Gladiator Sandals}

Cactus Valley Sandal from Free People

Peeptoe Ankle Strap Flatform Sandal

2013-11-12T23:51:00.004-05:00

You know the feeling when you envision an entity but you can't seem to find it in actuality? It happens to be a reoccurring theme in my life when it comes to shoes or clothing. I can imagine a shoe that goes well with almost all of my outfits, and yet the shoe is like Cinderella's slipper: lost in the fairy-tale dream and only to be found after long waiting. If I wanted to spend a thousand dollars on such a shoe, I'd have strutted just about a thousand footsteps by now. However, waiting is a must for all good things, as the saying goes. My fated pair is finally home.

JUMP Leather Flatform Sandals - Black from Asos (soldout)

Here's how I styled these flatforms:

QUAY Clear Reflections Shades (Elton Mirror Sunglasses) from Nasty Gal (get them here)
Long Sleeve Striped Dipped Hem T-Shirt from Sheinside (get it here)
Raw Cuff Shorts - White from YMI Jeans (get them here)

The Perfect Beige Cardigan

2013-10-24T16:43:00.001-04:00

'So move your feet from hot pavement and into the grass, 'cause it's already passed' ~ Arcade Fire

Solid Swing Tank - Black from 2020AVE (get it here)
Short Knit Cardigan - Beige from 2020AVE (get it here)
Teardrop Loop Pendant Drop Necklace - Silver from 2020AVE (get it here)
Asymmetrical Geometric Pockets Shorts - Black from Sheinside (get them here)
Iris-01 Platform Lace Up Oxford Flat - Black from UrbanOG (soldout)

Today has been the first day it's hit the 70's this fall, so I whipped out my comfy somewhat chunky cardigan, which I think beats the typical Brandy Melville ones out there. I originally saw it on Swaychic, but it sold out on me, so I found the exact one later on 2020AVE. Like maple syrup to pancakes, it's my staple!

P.S. This is right before the sprinklers turned on. What fun.

No Eye Contact Please

2013-10-11T19:32:00.000-04:00

No Eye Contact Please Long Sleeve Top - Light Brown from Papaya (in store)

There were no face-to-face compliments on this top only because I followed the motto. I did, however, overhear the smiles and bluntly loud observations of passersby. What's more is I only paid $15 for so much amusement. Must have!

These Shoes Were Made For Stalking

2013-10-11T18:50:00.001-04:00

So I've been up and about and back to college, and it's been a while since my last post. I've come back to discuss everyone's favorite accessory--shoes!! Of course, don't get confused by the title; I don't stalk people, just fashion. These are some of my newest picks and I'll tell you why:

The Mint Bedazzled Booties

Dunes-10 Rhinestone Ankle Strap Platform Wedge - Mint from UrbanOG (soldout)

...because a little tease in the front and flashy in the back never hurt anyone! (super comfy btw)

The Moon White Dynamites

Coltrane Cutout Boot by Jeffrey Campbell - White from NastyGal (get them here)

...because white is the new black! (definitely splurged here)

The Sway Me Suede Litas

Francheska-01 Suede Lace Up Chunky Heel Platform - Blue from DWDShoes (get them here)
These are a Lita dupe / lookalike! (See the Jeffery Campbell version)

...because shoe(s) are my sunshine!

The Crypto-Creep Flatforms

Iris-01 Platform Lace Up Oxford Flat - Black from UrbanOG (soldout)

& because three creepers are better than one!

Orange You Glad It's Summer?

2013-06-21T23:31:00.003-04:00

Frosted Floral Sunglasses from WetSeal (get them here)
Orange Ombre Teardrop Necklace from Francesca's
90's Crop Top With Long Sleeve - White from ASOS (get it here)
MINKPINK Britney Waisted Skirt from Collective Habit (get it here)

It's finally that time of year! Summer's in the air and although it's supposed to be all about beaching it up, tanning, late nights, movies, and spending quality time with friends and family, I'm stuck working until I can get a week off for vacation. I'm reminiscing on those childhood summers when I was able to say "I'm bored" every once in a while. Seriously, that's a privilege to us grown (still growing, kinda) grownups. Anyway, the connotation of summer is always supposed to be thrilling and I'm doing all I can to make it that way, even though that may not be the case. One thing's for sure, it's fun to see all the new summer attire coming out in stores and compiling various cool and comfortable outfits. I'm quite into orange, because it reminds me of sherbet, so I immediately fell in love with this button waisted skirt by MINKPINK. It was super discounted and I knew it would pair well with my ombre teardrop necklace I had gotten ages ago. Of course, I imagined to add a basic crop top (my 3 year long addiction). I can't really see a black top with these pieces because that would be a little too Halloweenie for me. Plus, with white, you can avoid some unnecessary heat. Last but not least, get excited to accessorize and throw on some sweet shades. Mine are not so out there, but the rims are floral and the tint is almost sepia, which totally wraps up the whole sunny summer look. Since I'm trying to keep my summer as up to par as possible, I'm already eyeing July 4th, which is nearly around the corner. I can't wait to style with schemes of red, white, and blue! Americana, stay tuned!!

SPITFIRE Steampunk Flick Sunglasses

2013-06-11T14:28:00.001-04:00

Steampunk Flick Sunglasses by SPITFIRE - Blue from Edge of Urge (get them here)
90's Crop Top - Black from ASOS (get it here)
Robertson High Waisted Denim Shorts - Laguna from Tobi (get them here)
Halfway Belt - Black Tobi (get it here)

What can I say about these shades? Um, FIERCE! By far, these are my favorite eye protectors ever! I've always been searching for a pretty shade of reflective lenses, but all the ones I had always found were not the right shape, tacky, or not my style. These lovelies by SPITFIRE (by the way, sick brand name, right?!) have made my summer, and it hasn't even officially begun yet! I'm crazy about the blue, as well as being able to hide my eyes from passersby. I feel a bit mysterious and like I'm one of those cool top spies or secret agents in action movies. Normally I don't favor round glasses, but these have definitely changed my perspective for the better! Go check out Edge Of Urge, the chic online store where I found these; they have a ton of more fabulous finds! As far as the outfit goes, I went for a classic cropped top and high waisted shorts look. Here's to a summer full of unknown but crazy awesome adventures!!

Distressed Denim And Bright Bows

2013-05-23T20:08:00.000-04:00

Top - Wilshire Low Waisted Denim Shorts - Newport from Tobi.com (get them here)
Right - MINKPINK Slasher Flick Short - Denim from Zappos.com (get it here)
Bottom - Sunset High Waisted Denim Shorts - Malibu from Tobi.com (get them here)
Left - MINKPINK Nightmare Short - Washed Black from 6pm.com (get it here)
Fashion Bow Ties from GOjane.com (get them here)

This Spring, I came to realize that I own way too many shorts. But it's okay because I sold the ones I knew I wouldn't miss too much to Plato's Closet (along with a ton of other clothes and accessories I had been meaning to get rid of, and I made a whopping $150!). I'm trying to focus more on tops so that I can actually pull together a matching outfit with all these beauteous shorts. Four that I have recently purchased are must-haves and can be paired with pretty much anything from crop tops to button ups to hoodies to even bodysuits! The top and bottom are from Tobi.com, where I have to say I got quite a great deal for pretty darn good looking denim! Keep in mind that if you don't see your size on Tobi.com, chances are it'll pop up and be restocked one day whether it be in a large or small quantity so be persistent and quick on ordering if you absolutely need an item! The remaining two high waisted shorties are made my one of my favorite brands: MINKPINK. I do prefer Tobi's pricing over the latter, but for the quality of these distressed cutoffs, the price tag is almost irrelevant. Plus, I snagged a discount for one of them from 6pm.com. As for the tiny little bows (Carly Rae Jepson's song is now neverending in my mind), they are from GOjane.com and can be tied around the neck of a shirt or used as a hair bow. The banana colored one is my most cherished bow for the silliest reason; it reminds me of banana popsicles, which if you enjoy banana runts, you will instantly devour! Anyway, I have no clue why I bought so many of these bowties, for I do not have any events to wear them to, but these I'll just have to wear whenever and wherever and make into a new trend. Soon enough Summer will be asking, "Oh you fancy huh?" and you best believe my outfit will declare, "Why yes, yes I am."

Gone Thrifting

2013-04-27T19:41:00.004-04:00

It has been ages since I took a day off from online shopping and headed over to Goodwill or any other thrift stores that catch my eye. Naturally, I became overexcited to see what I would encounter. I was crossing my fingers that I would own a pair of Levi's by the end of the day, but by no means did I expect it. Goodwill had none that fit me right, but the Zanna Jane's consignment store a few doors down had just one that was miraculously a snug fit on my hips. They were only $6, which made me love them even more. The flare style is a bit outdated, though, so I plan on going all DIY cutoffs on this denim. I glanced at the Louis Vuitton coin purse on the last minute before checking out, and although they aren't the real thing, the condition is great and the cute factor is irresistibly all the same. I added my own "D" initial charms to personalize and make glam. Also, it was only $7 and exactly the kind of mini wallet I had been looking for. Each of the beaded bracelets (my obsession) are colors that could go well together and with multiple outfits. The green evil eye one is a favorite and is similar to one I already have in blue that my mom got me from Greece. All of these were each under $4, which is a great deal compared to those you find in boutiques. Plus, it's all for a good cause, right? As for the Buddha necklace, it reminds me of an Om necklace I own, and for $3 how could I not snag such a thing? I feel that every girl needs or wants a turquoise ring, including me, so I finally joined the club. Last but not least, stripes and crop tops: no explanation necessary. I guess now I will check with my good friend, Goodwill before paying for retail. My expectations might just be found!

Brandy Melville & Tobi.com!!

2013-04-26T18:04:00.003-04:00

The top two on my favorite stores list have no doubt blown up so much in the past years. I remember discovering Tobi.com just over a year ago and being blown away myself. Why do I shop here more than elsewhere? Well, first off, they offer 30% off new arrivals. Not to mention, they add new items daily (except Sundays), items that are either not common or are cheaper than on other sites. Tobi now offers free returns, but I have yet to become tired of any clothing or accessories I purchased there. On the down side, since more and more people have become familiar with Tobi, the cutest of the cute usually sell out quick, like within one or a few days. What I do is, I keep track of how many of the products are in stock, and that way I can prioritize when and which items to get first over others that will have to wait until I get myself unbroke again. When it comes to Brandy Melville, it's definitely not a shocker as to the immeasurable craze that surrounds this brand. It is now the store that "defines" everyone's styles, as every girl says, and I hate to say I agree. Their pieces so simple and prices well within reason tease us females and allow us to incorporate an added touch that alters the comfortable, soft attire into a fun, fashionable outfit. Although Brandy needs a major ego check with its increased shipping costs, they do fix damaged item issues (in an untimely manner, however) and are sometimes worth the pain. Check out a few of my personalized outfits assembled from both trending shops to catch the fashion fever yourself:

Floppy Disk Red T-shirt from Zara
Daisies Skirt from Brandy Melville (sold out)

What's Your Nombre Dress from Tobi.com (get it here)
Annette Top - Black from Brandy Melville (sold out)

Annette Top - Haze from Brandy Melville (sold out)
Melville Denim Shorts - Forest Green from Brandy Melville (get them here)

Caged In Blouse - Mauve from Tobi.com (get it here)
Black Shorts from Forever21
Jewelry from Brandy Melville & Gifts

What's In Your Easter Basket?

2013-03-31T22:37:00.000-04:00

I don't usually celebrate Easter (except non-religiously when I was younger and it fell around the time of my birthday), but this year I decided to keep my mind off some stress and get creative with these little eggies. You don't have to just stick with the coloring dye and paints. I chose to step outside of the decorating kit box and grabbed simple markers and sharpies to make adorable and detailed designs. My favorite is the little Despicable Me minion; it warms up my candy filled insides! Okay, so the infinite love symbol is "inspired" by Brandy Melville, but whatever, I had fun drawing it. Besides, I gotta represent my favorite store, right? So this is how I spent my day, and for once, I don't mind that I didn't get to go Easter egg hunting like I used to back in the day. This little basket is so me. I guess that's why I was able to let loose and make pretty. Ah, Spring, I love your vibes.

Free PINK NATION Bandeau

2013-03-10T00:24:00.001-05:00

Although this laced bandeau is not bikini top material, it is definitely some sort of sexy. It makes you feel sexy, that is. I wore it by the shore because, what the heck, if it got splashed on I could just wash it anyway. I had no intention on merely hiding it underneath barely sheer attire or loose tanks. No, this bandeau is a beach top on its own and the hot pink graphic is super loud and beautifully contrasted against the almighty, always trendy black. Believe it or not, this girly bandeau is FREE with any PINK purchase. If you want to get the best deal, as I simply must, go for the cute panties so that you only pay around $10 for the underwear, bandeau, AND a secret rewards card which will grant you at least $10 to spend at Victoria's Secret (for a limited time only). See how much you save? Go for the free goodies when you have time, for nothing is more satisfying during shopping than feeling smart, wearing sexy, and saving bandeaux and bandeaux of bucks.

PINK NATION Bandeau from Victoria's Secret PINK (free)
Roxy Floral Rhapsody Sweetheart Bikini Pant from 6pm (get it here)

Where's Waldo?

2013-03-09T15:37:00.001-05:00

Much like Waldo, I'm all striped out. And again like Waldo, the beach is my new home!

Classic Striped Floppy Hat from Forever 21 (now soldout)
Pink Nation Bandeau from Victoria's Secret PINK (free)
Striped Knit Top from Tobi.com (now soldout)
Melville Denim Shorts from Brandy Melville (get them here)

Violet Blouse

2013-03-08T00:16:00.001-05:00

Springtime = sheer time. We can feel the warm wind approaching, especially when we see and show more skin. I don't know anyone who isn't pumped for the new season. It can be any time of the year, though, and I will fall in love with every shade of purple, whether it be lilac, lavender, orchid, violet, fuchsia, magenta, or plum. Since I'm in the process of augmenting more shirts and blouses in all sorts of pigments to my wardrobe, this top was at such a great extent of a must-have that I placed it above my Brandy Melville wishlist (which is quite a big deal). This sheer violet halfway button up blouse is a bit of a darker shade in person than in my photos (it's closer to the store's image), but it shines through as so under the sun. However, while you are wearing a necessary purple so pretty, the sun is not the sole source of radiance. Roses are red, violets are blue, but gleaming the most, is the shade of you!

Mira Blouse - Violet from Necessary Clothing (get it here)

Americana Denim Cutoffs

2013-03-05T21:48:00.002-05:00

Whether you're close to the beaches or just preparing for Spring & Summer, now's the time to begin scouting for some new and cute denim shorts. Normally, I'm not one to advertise the American Flag on my shirts or what have you because I go for more unique designs and styles, but this pair pretty much meets smack in the middle between patriotism and extraordinary. I unexpectedly stumbled upon these cutoffs on Forever21.com and was iffy on ordering them online due to sizing uncertainty. Obviously it turned out okay--actually, more than okay--since the color, fit, appeal, and quality were perfection. Even though I tend to shy away from revealing more of my thighs than necessary, I am not afraid to wear this as a high waisted piece. If you live in the U.S. or have American pride, I more than recommend this denim essential. The stars and stripes are calling your name, so go ahead and don't show them up...show them off!!

Americana Denim Cutoffs from Forever 21 (get them here)

Green Tiger Sweater

2013-02-27T20:36:00.000-05:00

Green Tiger Sweater

This big guy is mean, green, and all studded up. Animal print is so not my style and I am not first in line regarding the stud obsession, but as long as the animal print is not a mere pattern and the design is more than over-exaggerated metal, I'll give it a pass. Give this tiger dude a pass? I wouldn't think twice! There are those days in which you just know your inner feisty self is about to face the world. Granted, your style doesn't design you, yet it defines your mood. Wear the tiger, be the tiger; wear the stud, be the stud, and so on and so forth. I have seen multiple colors of the studded pullover (& feel free to click the websites for the coordinating items): gray from Tobi.com and Forever21.com, orange from Shopwasteland.com, and gray/black/lime green from GOJane.com. But what better color to add to my wardrobe than my favorite color: green! NecessaryClothing.com also has sequined tiger sweaters and there are similar studded ones in black/white/gray from Sheinside.com. The tag brand is Rehab, but scroll down to see where I added the solid, bright, pigment green top to my cart. Feel free to tear yourself apart. Rawr!!

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)

Gold Jade Ring from Mom
Oval Translucent Ring from F21 (years ago)
Nails: Black on Black 103 and Fantasy 1166 by Sinful Colors Professional

Lavender Ring from JcPenney
Silver Infinity Love Ring from Brandy Melville (get it here)
SO Gold Tone "PEACE" License Plate Bracelet from Mom

Plain Silver Ring from MomNails: Black on Black 103 and Fantasy 1166 by Sinful Colors Professional

SO Gold Tone "DREAM" License Plate Necklace from Kohl's (got it here..now soldout)

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)
Melville Denim Shorts from Brandy Melville (get them here)
Lacoste Appoline SMU Sandals from 6pm (get them here)

Nanette Lepore Kaleo Top

2013-02-17T04:57:00.003-05:00

Everything looks better sideways. Don't you agree? Also, does this adorbs top not make you scream for cotton candy ice cream??

OONAGH by Nanette Lepore Kaleo Top in Blue Sky/Fiesta Pink Stripe (got it here..now soldout)

Nanette Lepore Goddess One Piece Swimsuit

2013-02-16T07:19:00.001-05:00

Take a moment when you wake up in the morning (or as you pull an all-nighter) and listen to the birds chirp chirping away. In this moment, you are free to pause and relieve yourself from any weight or worry you may have. Go ahead and sigh. Sigh out all your senses but your hearing. The birds may not speak your language, yet they can sure give you a sense of peace. Remember: Only when you let beauty surround you can it grow within you. ~ Dizzida

Nanette Lepore Goddess One Piece Swimsuit (get it here)
Victoria's Secret Stripe Tote

Maroon And Black

2013-01-31T18:28:00.003-05:00

I Love You To The Moon And Back Tank (get it here)
Stoned Silver Leaf Earrings (get them here)

Are you fond of someone? Are you fond of this top? If so, snag this tank and share how you feel with that special someone. February begins tomorrow. Love is in the air!

Burgundy and Black

2013-01-19T03:01:00.002-05:00

I have always craved for clothing with a burgundy/maroon/wine color, but never actually went out of my way to find one. These skinny jeggings (not really jean-like, but they are quite velvety and super comfy) caught my eye while I roamed around Target on a boring Winter Break day. I must say, I didn't have much in mind of what to wear them with at first, but then I remembered that black matches everything and if I wanted to make the outfit all about the pants, I had to grab the simplest, basic attire. This picture was taken in December, and the warmth displayed via warm colors comes across and makes me feel as if I don't have to worry about shiver-provoking weather anytime in the near future...thank goodness!

By the way, I looked up the word, "rhododendron" because it popped in my head, yet I had no idea what it was. Random, I know.

Juniors Xhilaration Skinny Denim in Red (Target)
Preview Boots in Champagne (get it here)
Old Black Leather Jacket (Forever 21)
Striped Long Sleeve Top (Tobi.com)

Skinny Flowy Tank Love

2012-11-18T02:44:00.004-05:00

Watch my new YouTube video to find out where I got the top in my heading and background snapshot. Follow/Comment/Like/Subscribe; please and thank you!!

Calypso Platform Pumps

2012-11-17T17:06:00.003-05:00

Calypso Platform Pump (get it here)

I just had to place this picture above my writing today. It fully mesmerizes me with a single glance, and I can't help but feel the magic. The Calypso Platform Pumps by Fahrenheit go above and beyond and over the top, out of this world, but never out of my mind! I have been eyeing these ice blue darlings since they were new arrivals, although I was waiting for Black Friday/Cyber Monday just in case Nasty Gal decided to reveal promotions, since they haven't in so long. I would have been able to handle the wait a little longer, but of course Nasty Gal comes out with their Holiday Collection just in time to crack me. The picture below is what sold me, and since I could not resist temptation, Luster and Calypso were on their way to my closet. The Pumps are miraculous with a capital Metallic! "Whatever" to the fact that metallic is so in right now; these stunnermuffins (no not studmuffins) belong in any era and stole the hearts from my feet if my feet had hearts!! If you've read my other blogs, you know I'm a sucker for fairy tales and these shoes just speak to me as if they will carry me away to all the happily-ever-after fairy tales when I wear them. They're priced at $48, which I'd say is a great deal compared to many of the other shoes on Nasty Gal. I honestly don't know why they're not sold out yet. The picture shows them a shade darker than they actually are (my flash was full on), so they look more towards the color in the picture from the store site. Nonetheless, I am reminded of Cinderella's one night getaway that deemed her a princess (even though I'd like to think she was one before her fairy godmother showed up). The only issue I had was that the size was a teeny bit bigger for my feet for some reason. It is barely there as I can still walk in them, but when I buy heels I want them to fit perfectly and be comfortable, and the latter applies. I am considering exchanging them for a half size smaller, which is a plus that the sizes are not only available in whole sizes, but boy would it be a pain to find that pair too small. Anyway, moving on to my lust for Luster, am I one of a few that see past the aluminum astronaut-like aura the blouse puts forth? Probably not, since the sizes are running low already, but I myself do not comprehend why Luster was meant for me to lust. With free 2-day UPS shipping, I became that one little girl who frantically open her presents before Christmas day. The blouse is quite oversized in length, which is stated in the item description, and the material is 100% polyethylene (aka plastic). Despite being aware of the plastic material, I was unsure of the look and feel of the top in person, and am still betwixt of what to think of it upon wearing it. Any movement creates a plastic-y noise, but I have to hand it to the designer, for the style is quite unique and well put-together. Both of my purchases say a lot about the fashion boundaries these days--they are surpassed in every single direction! I wouldn't wear these two beauties together, or even the bejeweled/embellished shorts in the picture with the Luster blouse. That would be way too flashy, even with my camera flash off. The best way to accentuate these pieces is to wear them with a simple outfit. I have yet to snap a photo of me in this top, but I'm not sure I can top this model; she's pretty high fashion, minus her awkward left hand). Oh yeah, right now Nasty Gal is, upon purchase of a Holiday Collection item, giving away free totes in the same silver metallic style and material as the Luster blouse. That's what's showing as the background in my picture above. So the moral of this shopping fairy tale blog is, you can give in to lust sometimes, and there's no need to have your shoes slip away in order for you to shine! Happy shopping!!

Luster Blouse (get it here)