I Shop Therefore I Amz

My Recent Hair Obsession: Fishtail Braids

2011-07-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

Perfect for summer's heat waves this hairstyle, a close cousin to the traditional braid, is making waves! Not only are celebs sporting the fishtail braid on the red carpet, while out on the town and - quirky take on it's cousin, the braid. I love the look of this style because it looks so much more intricate than it really is, giving the illusion that you've spent a mass amount of time achieving the look when in reality it can take 5 minutes. That's right.This slightly messy hairstyle and quirky cousin to the braid, can change up your look and give it that extra edge that will stop people in their tracks.

Here's Minka Kelly rocking out a beachy fishtail braid and I have to say that I'm sort of loving how un-kept it looks. Instead of being severe this has a very sexy ultra hip vibe to it and paired with her bronzed make-up and nude lips she almost looks like she just came from a day out in the sun. I'm totally digging it!

Dianna Agron, best known for her role on the hit show, Glee, as Quinn, takes the fishtail braid to the red carpet. I love the imperfections here - the wispy strands and haphazard un-tucked pieces give her a look that's young and fresh without trying too hard.

Here Rihanna is seen sporting a long and polished plait in comparison to the previous slightly messy ones before. There is something very whimsical and fairy tale-esque about this style. It takes the traditional braid and blows it out of the water (no pun intended.)

This look is both combative and ethereal. With the futuristic make-up and structured dress this style is the perfect blend of fierce and feminine.

I am head over heels for this look! There's something so whimsical about the contrasts in shading of the braid as it trangresses. Accompanied by the doe eyes and cherry red lipstick her look is classic with a very modern twist.

I am seriouzly NOT a fan of this look. It's so incredibly unkept that it's honestly not worth the effort. It's knotted and distracting, it doesn't enhance her best features, and to put it bluntly it's party on the top and hangover on the bottom. It's like the formula for a bad mullet. No hair adornment can negate bad styling.

There you have it! 4 Very sassy looks and 1 look to steer clear of! :)

Music Fashion Icon - Shirley Manson of Garbage

2011-07-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

Music has always driven me. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a killer melody and a beat.

Shirley Manson (of the band, Garbage)

I've always had great respect for strong women in music and if there is one chick who truly encompasses that it's Shirley Manson, lead singer of the alterna-rock band Garbage. As the only female in an all guy band, Shirley blended feminine frocks with rough-and-tumble items, creating a perfect fashion contradiction as well as a look that not only complimented the solid edge and industrial musicality of the band but also let her own individuality shine through.

Fishnet tights, bold red lips and fiery tresses.

I think I was in 6th grade when I saw the music video for "Only Happy When It Rains"(off of their first self-titled album, Garbage) and my jaw dropped in delight. The hot colored shift dresses. The combat boots. The fishnet stockings. The shaggy bob. She was putting items together that I had never even considered pairing together before, and it all looked so tough and effortless! Thus, my love affair with the trendy songstress began.


Bold jewelry, tartan minis and fishnets - remixed as only Manson can!

Kohl-rimmed eyes are a must for Manson!

Bold skintight sheath dresses can be a rock-in-roll Goddess' best friend!

These boots were made for walking, rocking and kicking ass!

Truly a vixen in her own right and a total rock Goddess! Shirley, you rock!

Last but not least - here is the video that started it all for me :) Enjoy!

"I feel the same way I did when I was in school. I'm having the same insecurities. They don't go away just because they call you a sex symbol."- Shirley Manson

(Sigh, as if I couldn't heart this girl enough - she has to go on and prove that she's human! :)

5 Fabulous 4th of July Fashions That Scream "I'm Proud to be an American!"!

2011-06-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

With the 4th of July on it's way and Summer in full swing, I thought I would pick out some patriotic apparel to prepare for the magic that is our Independence Day!

1.) Sparkle & Fade American Flag Swing Tank Top - Urban Outfitters ($29)

This laid back tank top is perfect against your favorite pair of cut-offs and can even be glammed up a touch when paired with a solid colored mini.

2.) Port Jelly Sandal - Payless ($9.99 on Sale)

These flip flops are a cute twist on American classic colors, plus they're comfortable for a day at the beach or a brunch with the girls.

3.) Stars-and-Stripes String Bikini - Old Navy (Top $15 on Sale/ Bottoms $15 on Sale)

I am hearting this string bikini set! When it comes to patriotism, this bathing suit reigns supreme! There will definitely be some looks at the pool or beach when sporting this look - stars and stripes never looked so good!

4.) Declaration of Indie-pendance Striped Dress - Lulu's ($34)

This Americana-inspired dress is a fun and subtle nod to red, white and blue. Sophisticated yet playful, it's the perfect ensemble for a 4th of July BBQ.

5.) American Flag Design Travel Umbrella - Target ($24.99)

If it can't be sunny all the time but at least you can shield yourself under this fun American flag umbrella for coverage.

Well, there you have it! Just a few red, white and blue items to liven up your wardrobe this 4th of July! What are you wearing this 4th?

5 Pairs of Summer Wedges to Rock Out!!!

2011-06-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

This season, I have to say I am pretty much loving wedges and espadrilles of all kinds and colors! Long gone are the days of teetering atop tiny stilettos for me ( or, at least until the Fall rolls around again ;). These shoes are all about leisure, comfort and style - and what shoe encompasses that better than the espadrille? The great thing about them is that you never ever have to sacrifice height for comfort. Plus, with so many styles to choose from, you'll always be right on the fashion pulse! Here are a few hot styles to add to your closet at a fraction of the price!

1.) Mossimo Pilar Strappy Wedge Sandals - Target ($29.99)


If you can't shell out the money for the more expensive Dolce Vita version of this shoe, fear not! Target's interpretation is uncanny and are much more affordable! Why sacrifice price for style when you don't have to? They also come in black.

2.) Leopard Bow Espadrille Wedge - Charlotte Russe ($30)

This fun shoe is the perfect way to introduce the leopard print trend into your wardrobe if a huge commitment isn't your thing! Plus they're so versatile that they can be worn with a casual sundress or a classic LBD for a more dressed up evening look.

3.) Yacht Bow Espadrille High Wedge - Payless ($14.99 on Sale)

You don't have to sail the high seas to rock out this season's nautical trend! At this price you can't afford not to get them!

4.) A.N.A. "Loretta" Sandals - JCPenney ($39.99 on Sale)

This style of espadrille is a fave of celebs, and why not with its sleek straps and woven details! People's Style Mag even labeled these as a Summer Must-Have! They also come in tan and black!

5.) Soda Quota Natural Knotty Bow Espadrille Wedges - Lulu's ($31)

This adorable eyelet wedge is both dainty and delicate. They're neutral enough to pair with a variety of things and can even add a girly touch to a pair of cut offs when you want some height.

Jumpstart Your Summer with These Eye-Popping Shades!!!

2011-06-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

So to continue with my recent obsession with all things neon I put together a few looks on Polyvore that prove just how wearable these fun shades can be - no matter what the occasion!

Amanda Uprichard hot pink silk dress
$190 - 25park.com

J Crew scoop neck dress
$150 - net-a-porter.com

TopShop top
$20 - topshop.com

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania cotton skirt
$310 - net-a-porter.com

ALDO t strap sandal
$100 - aldoshoes.com

Forever21 zips shoes
$19 - forever21.com

High heel shoes
141 GBP - amrag.com

Kate Spade tote handbag
$275 - nordstrom.com

Zara clutch bag
$109 - zara.com

Manumit linen handbag
16 GBP - fashion-conscience.com

Hair clip accessory
$3.99 - hottopic.com

PASHMINA ART purple scarve
75 EUR - pret-a-beaute.com

Eugenia kim hat
$198 - intermixonline.com

Ray Ban metal sunglass
$159 - mytheresa.com

Retro shade
$9.99 - hottopic.com

3 1 Phillip Lim wide belt
$325 - barneys.com

How would you add a touch of neon to your wardrobe? Do you feel like the neon trend is rad or just a fad?

5 Musicians Who Created Their Own Fashion Lines

2011-05-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

It's one thing to make it in music, quite another to transition into fashion. Not all celebs who make this cross over are successful but here are a batch of those who have created a brand of fashion and made it all their own!

1.) Lily Allen - Lucy in Disguise

British pop tart and singer, Lily Allen, joined forces with her sister, Sarah Owen, to create the vintage-inspired line, Lucy in Disguise. Lily has mused in the past that many of her stuff was second-hand before she rose to fame, claiming it was her one way of owning nice things when the money wasn't rolling in.

2.) Justin Timberlake - William Rast

Once a boy bander turned pop star, now turned successful entrepreneur, Timberlake's clothing line William Rast features edgy denim and exotic patterns for both men and women. He even participated with Target to release a more affordable line of apparel proving he's got all the right moves on stage as well as the fashion world.

3.) Gwen Stefani - L.A.M.B.

Lead singer of the power house group, No Doubt, wife to the gorgeous Gavin Rossdale of the band, Bush, and mother are just a few things in Gwen Stefani's life that she has excelled at. Still, the fashion maven, who claims she was making her own clothing for performances before fame came knocking on the Cali band's door, has not only created a successful clothing and shoe line, but has also transitioned over into fragrances and bags. Is there anything this woman can't do!? Gwen, I heart you!

4.) Victoria Beckham - Victoria Beckham


Victoria Beckham, or 'Posh' has clearly earned her right in the world of fashion when it comes to creating a line of classic yet eye-catching dresses for the modern woman that celebs and starlets everywhere are clamoring to get their hands on! Not bad for a former Spice Girl!

5.) Jessica Simpson - Jessica Simpson Collection

Jessica Simpson has really taken the fashion world by storm! Not only does she have the lock down on apparel, shoes, hand bags, bathing suits and now luggage, but according to WWD her collections have earned nearly 1 billion dollars in revenue! Now's that's something to sing about!

What do you think of musicians who create their own fashion lines?

Do you wear any of these labels?

All Hail Blake Lively - The Neon Queen!

2011-05-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

Do not adjust your screen! These poppin' hues are meant to attract, distract and cause a visual frenzy! Neons are back! Highlighter yellows, fluorescent pinks and luminous greens are taking over and if there was ever a time to sport this trend it's now that the temperature is rising! These colors look great against a tanned and toned body and are a fun way to experiment with fashion's quirkiest shades!

Often times people veer away from this trend claiming it's trickiness, but it's not so! And who better to prove this than Gossip Girl star and fashionista, Blake Lively! Never one to shy away from a bold color - she has not only embraced the neon fad but has proven that it's as wearable as it is fun!

Lively sporting a tribal-esque Marchesa strapless dress during 2010's Fashion Night Out here in Manhattan.

This gorgeous hot pink Michael Kors dress fit the starlet to a "T" when she attended the 2009 CFDA Fashion Awards.

An Emilio Pucci clad Lively proved once and for all that neon blue can be as sexy as it is striking! Plus, bonus points for adding fuchsia heels to the ensemble for an extra visual pop!

With a color this eye-catching, the tiers and maxi length of this dress create a flattering and ethereal effect.

Blake wearing a brightly colored top and bag while shooting a scene for 'Gossip Girl' in NYC.

This sassy aqua blue romper is playful yet sophisticated thanks to the cut and color.

So this purple Tadashi Shoji one-shoulder dress isn't entirely "neon" per se, but I'm loving the look, fit and feel of this outfit from head to toe.

What do you think of Blake's usage of neon? Is neon a trend you can see yourself sporting?

5 Adorably Affordable Dresses Just in Time for Spring!

2011-05-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

With Spring finally here and Summer quickly approaching, now's the time to stock up on stylish dresses to beat the heat in! I'm all about the affordable over the extravagant and with these cute colors, patterns and styles, everyone will only think you splurged!

1.) Fierce Blouson Dress - Forever 21 ($27.80)


This splashy sundress is bright and flattering on a variety of body types - not to mention it's light-weight for those sunny and scorching days !

2.) Vintage Crochet Dress - Delia*s ($39.50 on Sale)

There's something so dainty and alluring about this pretty cream dress. It's perfect for a picnic or date night and it cinches the waist at just the right place!

3.) Slub-Knit Halter Maxi Dress - Charlotte Russe ($24.99 on Sale)


The bold hue of this red maxi dress is an attention-getter without trying too hard - not to mention it can easily transition from dressy to casual.

4.) Many Belles Down Rump Shaker Purple Sundress - Lulu's ($63)


The halter neckline makes this halter dress draws attention to toned arms and shoulders and the length even makes it work appropriate! Plus any dress that comes equipped with pockets is a definite must in my fashion book!

5.) Linen Blend Stripe Dress w/ Belt - Forever 21 ($22.80)

I love the sweetheart neckline of this simple striped dress, and the easy color combo makes it a snap to accessorize! Bonus - it even comes with a cute tan woven belt!

How will you beat the heat this Spring/Summer and what will you be wearing?

I Heart Marina & the Diamonds!!!

2011-05-24T09:12:00.000-07:00

If you have no idea who Marina & the Diamonds is then shame on you!

I've been an avid listening of her music (Yes, Marina is a solo artist and not a band) for almost three years now. Born of Greek and Welsh decent (making her absolutely GORGEOUS - watch out, Catherine Zeta-Jones!) it wasn't long before this chanteuse was self-composing her own music with the help of Garageband, an Apply software program. Influenced by a wide range of performers varying from Britney Spears to PJ Harvey, Marina's melodic harmonies and haunting vocals skim the pop world adding just a touch of carefree whimsy. She quotes herself as being more of a "DIY" artist and her fashion choices often reflect that.

I think what I love about her is her fearlessness when it comes to style. So many singers get wrapped up in the glamor of it, taking every opportunity to sex up their images every chance they get. Marina is different because she allows herself to make bold fashion choices and never makes apologies for it.

Don't believe me - check out my fashion homage to the rising starlet!

Enjoy!

Collegiate letter jackets seem to be a favorite of the Welsh singer and she always manages to pair them with something fresh and unexpected.

Feathers! Feathers! Feathers! The flashier the better!

Her ability to mix and match soft and tough pieces creates a fun and chic palette.

YES, she can even rock the hell out of black lipstick!

Even with a clean color combo she manages to add her own punk and pizazz with a shock of pink hair and frosted lips.

She even rocks out retro glam like a pro!

Even in all white she manages to toughen up the look with leather gloves, a cross and a funky tie dye headband - not to mention that killer pink clutch!

For those of you who are still unfamiliar with the magical that is Marina, here are a few songs to acquaint yourself with :)

Here are just a few ensembles I've created inspired by the starlet herself!

Dolman sleeve top, $15
Wildfox Couture vintage top, $113
White tunic top, 29 GBP
H m jacket, 25 GBP
Feather skirt, $330
Matthew Williamson leather pencil skirt, 598 EUR
Skirt, $140
Opaque tight, $6.98
Vince gold skirt, 258 GBP
Opaque stocking, $6.98
TopShop turquoise tight, $12
Finsk bootie boot
Sandal, 399 SEK
Jeffrey Campbell flat shoes, 79 EUR
John Fluevog flat shoes
Penny Loves Kenny stiletto heels, $90
Rubber bracelet, $3.99
DAY Birger et Mikkelsen beaded jewelry, $180
Chain necklace, $25
Betsey johnson earring, $50
Collar necklace, 39 EUR
Yves Saint Laurent leopard print belt, 395 EUR
Leather belt, $70
Zara leather belt, $40

What I Gotz On - Brunch Edition

2011-05-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

So, apparently on this past Saturday "Rapture" was supposed to occur and the world as we know it was supposed to come to a dead halt. However, I am a Manhattan-ite, and like most Manhattan-ites I know, that wasn't about to deter anyone from the blessed weekly union that is Brunch. So with a few friends in tow, an empty stomach and a snappy outfit, we embarked on our "last" brunch to tipsily stare death in the face. The world never did end, but brunch was fabulous!

(Also, the weather was gorgeous - FINALLY!)

Outfit-wise, I wanted the perfect balance of comfy and chic. I recently picked this H&M skirt up at a second-hand store and sort of fell in love with the way it haphazardly off-sets the striped shirt. I'm starting to play a lot more with the idea of mixing patterns which can be surprisingly easy I'm learning as long as you stay within the same color palette.

Even though I've pretty much waged a war on heels lately, I couldn't help but slip on these Aerosole sandals (also snagged second-hand). I've had them for a few years and I swear they only get comfier.

I also picked up this necklace at F21. I'm hearting the two-sided message!

What I Gotz On:

Striped top - Forever 21

Black & gold mini skirt - H&M (Thrifted)

3/4 Length windbreaker - South Africa

Fedora - Union Square street vendor

Cross-body bag - H&M

Silver Cuff - Friend

Sandals - Aerosoles (Thrifted)

"Hello/Goodbye" necklace - Forever 21

My Recent Hair Obsession - Feather Hair Extensions!!!

2011-05-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, at first I wasn't quite sure how I felt about them, but now I am LOVE LOVE LOOOOVING the idea of feather hair extensions with a capital "L". There's just something so boho and ethereal about them!

They add just a touch of whimsy to normally dull strands and let's face it - they just look plain AWESOME! I have been recently daydreaming about strutting down the NYC streets, my long mane (equipped with feather extensions obviiiiiously) blowing in the wind behind me. Okay, well maybe not quite THAT cinematically of course, but you all get the idea and if not, indulge me please.

I've recently seen these in editorial spreads, blogs and on celebs and musicians (Ke$ha, I'm looking at you!). At first I'll admit I was a bit skept, but I have to admit I'm warming up to this trend at a record pace.

From what I have gathered from my research, there are many salons here in NYC who will add these extensions to your tresses although I have also seen a variety of kits online and "How-To" videos on Youtube. I have to say I'm sort of crushing on this look hardcore.

The other great thing about these extensions (aside from the fact that they are FABULOUS) is that they can last up to six weeks and can washed, dyed and even curled just as if it were part of your existing hair. Not to mention it's a sexy and subtle way to rock out a hint of color this Summer! How do you feel about the hair feather trend? Thoughts?

I Heart Lucy Hale!!!

2011-05-16T17:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have a straight up girl crush on Lucy Hale. I mean, look at her! That bone structure, those sultry wide eyes, that petite little physique that leads me to believe she could rock a burlap sack as a dress and still mange to look like a million bucks. (Sigh) She's pretty fab.

Not to mention the fact that she just seems like the type of girl you would like to be BFF's with! The kind of girl who would totally tell you if you had shit in your teeth before you went up and approached your crush and the kind of friend who would let you borrow her brand new leather mini skirt without a second thought, even if she hasn't got to wear it out herself yet.

For those of you who follow Lucy on the hit TV show, 'Pretty Little Liars' (which is pretty gosh darn entertaining - however I'm biased as I have literally seen every episode and have even read the entire book series - no judgments please, lol) you know that her character, Aria Montgomery, is a fashion maven in her own right.

Now, I crush on Lucy but I have a straight up style crush on Ms. Montgomery! Not only is her style fun, fresh, eclectic and unique but she's always experimenting with her look. Plus she single-handedly makes everyone else in the fictional town of Rosewood look cookie-cutter and mundane (Spencer Hastings, I'm looking at you!).

Here's some of my favorite pics of Ms. Hale and her onscreen character Aria.

Never one to shy away from bold looks, Lucy's character Aria is all about mixing patterns, textured layers and quirky cute accessories.

I'm luuuuuuuuving the rough and tumble texture of her hair in this shot!

I'm such a fan of the mod make-up and sleek hair here and how it balances out the proportions of the bold polka dots. Plus, there's just something so elegant about the pairing of these black thigh highs against this lady-like frock. Often times I feel thigh highs get a bad rep for being trashy...Lucy shows us, not so!

Sooooo HOT!!! Hey, if you've got it flaunt it! I would love to pair this lacy bra with a semi-sheer cream button-up blouse opened a little at the top so that the tulle is just peeking out over the top. Fun and flirty ;)