little black sequin

i said yes

2013-05-30T09:37:00.005-07:00

Memorial Weekend was beyond amazing. It started out with my then boyfriend, now fiancé proposing. Need I say more? He did a wonderful job designing the most spectacular ring I have ever seen. It's going to be hard to not make every post about it. HA!

I realized when I got dressed today that I must have been inspired by my new guilty pleasure TV show... Nashville. I so can't wait for next season. I love wearing my favorite leather boots (thanks to my friend Jen for introducing me to this designer) and coordinating them with a fun summer dress. So get out your boots and dresses ladies! Have a wonderful weekend!

Dress: Old Navy / Jean Jacket: Gap (old) /
Scarf: Ava + Aliria / Boots: Catarina Martins /
Engagement Ring: SN Queens designed by my fiance Todd

Photos taken by Beth Mamula

summertime

2013-05-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

Summertime and the livin's easy ...

One of my three favorite seasons is almost upon us which means it's time to pull out the shorts and swimsuits. OK maybe just the shorts for now (and not too short). Memorial weekend is coming up which to me is the kickoff to Summer. This summer I have decided to wear hats as much as possible for so many reasons (i.e. bad hair, beach/sun protection, they are just so darn cute, etc.). Expect to see lots of post with me wearing hats.

Enjoy your Memorial weekend!

Hat: H&M / Shirt: H&M / Shorts: Ann Taylor (old) / Purse: Street Level (from Ava + Aliria)
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell

i'm back

2013-05-08T13:37:00.001-07:00

After a long hiatus I have decided it is time to get back into blogging. Thanks to all my friends who've been asking me about my blog and if I was ever going to do another post. Well ... I'm back!

I've decided to make my first post back the outfit I wore to the Wilson Phillips concert this past weekend. That's right Wilson Phillips (they are also back). There is nothing better than belting out old songs with your sister. Oh wait there is ... jumping on stage and dancing with your sister. Love you Ann!

Have a great Wednesday! It feels good to be back.

Vest: Old Navy / Dress: Target / Shoes: Target
Purse: H&M / Sunglasses: Vogue

Anthro. How I love thee.

2012-11-02T10:14:00.002-07:00

The November Anthropologie catalog arrived yesterday. I could just leave it at that and I am sure you understand ... it was AMAZING. I found myself dog earring every single page. I liked a dress on one page, a necklace on another, and wait a pair of amazing shoes. ARGH if only I still worked there. Why oh why do they have to tease me with so many cute things. Of course I ran to my desk and pulled up their website only to find that I am obsessed with every single pair of shoes they are carring right now. Here are a few of my favs. Happy Friday!

Saturnalia Wedges

Bijou Toecap Pumps

Abella Belted Booties

Tailored Glitz Pumps

Dusk Shades Heels

J.Crew handbag and shoe shop now open

2012-08-21T11:41:00.001-07:00

When you recieve an email like this ...

the only thing to do is click on it and find handbags and shoes that you love and must have. I mean it says complimentary shipping and returns!!!!! In the meantime I am drooling over a few items (see below).

The Biennial Satchel

The Copley Saddlebag

The Little Edie Purse

The Etta Calf Hair Pumps

The Etta Cap toe Metallic Pumps

The Toni Tassel Loafers

peplum tops

2012-08-09T15:56:00.000-07:00

So I have seen this style make a big comeback lately and I love both the peplum tops and skirts that are flooding stores. I have been thinking about getting one ever since I was at a restaurant and this girl walked in with a short sleeve black SEQUIN peplum top. I wanted to run over and ask where she got it but figured I would just google it (and save my boyfriend the embarrassment). Well I have found a few that I think are worthy of a hanger in my closet. TBD ...

www.topshop.com

Sold Out - www.hm.com

www.topshop.com

www.asos.com

www.topshop.com

new place = new bedroom

2012-06-20T12:44:00.001-07:00

OK after almost a full month off of blogging I am back. It's been a crazy month of moving from Seattle to my sisters place to finally our NEW apartment. We couldn't be more excited! We found a cute 2 bedroom/2 bath apartment near the beach in Manhattan Beach. Now it is on to decorating starting with the bedroom. We have both agreed on the kind of bed we would like (he would like a platform bed and I would like a headboard made out of reclaimed wood). Thanks to Pinterest and Etsy I found the perfect bed that combines both. We decided to have a friend of ours make this bed soooooo it should be done in about a year (just kidding). I have found that reclaimed wood is not cheap and especially not in LA. I am seriously thinking about either tearing down an old barn in Minnesota or stealing a fence from one of the many awesome Venice/Abbot Kinney area homes. Either way this bed is going to be made.

This is kind of what it would look like.

On to bedding... For the past year we have had the same bedding and I really want something new. I would like to keep it clean, beachy, and rustic feeling. I love the idea of grey, tan, seafoam green or antique blue and white as a color scheme. After looking through ideas on Pinterest (follow me) I found a couple that I would like to use as inspiration. Cheers!

*All photos were taken from Pinterest so I don't actually have the
originals or know who to credit.

How cute would it be to wake up to this fun banner every morning?!?!?
Done. I am so making one.

bittersweet

2012-05-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

It's been one year since I moved to Seattle with my boyfriend and one full year of blogging from the tiny deck outside our apartment. We have decided to move back down to California. Of course I am over the moon about being back in the South Bay area and seeing my nephew and sister, shopping at my favorite store Ava + Aliria, seeing my friends, and hearing the crashing waves but I must say that I am really going to miss Seattle. It is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been to and I am honored to have called it home for the last year.

I will miss the amazing views (Mt. Rainier is by far the most glorious thing I have ever seen and I will miss it every day), my boyfriend's awesome family (thank you for taking me in and making me part of the family, I love you), our friends (you are all fabulous on every level and I am thankful), and last but not least the fantastic restaurants (this city has the most amazing restaurants and since I don't cook I have been able to sample a large amount of them).

So as I say goodbye to my photo studio (aka my deck) and this amazing city, I am saying hello to a new adventure and new posts. Goodbye my dearest Seattle and hello Cali!

See you all in a few weeks once we are settled down in California. New posts soon!

Shirt - JCrew / Shorts - Levis / Booties - Steve Madden

My favorite bag picked up at the Pike Place Market.

My don't start crying you will be OK smile.

My favorite new booties. They are so comfortable I pretty much wear them every day.

Last but not least ... the deck. Goodbye!

brighten up

2012-04-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

After the most beautiful weekend in Seattle I decided to pull out some color. Plus I am going through that I hate everything in my closet phase again and I needed a little inspiration. The brightest item in my closet is this neon dress that I bought at Shareen Vintage in LA. I loved the idea of adding a fun bright colored necklace to it so I grabbed this vintage turquoise necklace and attached a gold brooch (my grandma would be so proud). To complete this look I pulled out my favorite neon pink nail polish and painted away.

Bring on SUMMER!

Dress - Shareen Vintage / Shoes - Aldo / Necklace, Brooch & Ring - SuLaine's Antiques / Belt - Ava + Aliria / Bracelets - Assorted / Nail Polish - Pink Park by Essie (this is vintage too since they no longer make this color)

leather shift

2012-04-09T09:50:00.001-07:00

I was pretty much obsessed with finding the perfect faux leather shift this spring. You could say it was a MISSION of mine as I was on every website looking for one that wasn't outrageous in price but looked real. Voila I found one!!!!!!! I have never actually bought anything from Bluefly.com before but with an extra 30% off I couldn't pass up this adorable shift. It was exactly what I was looking for. Now all I needed was the perfect occasion to wear it. My boyfriend's birthday!

When asked if this was a new dress I simply said "what are you talking about I got this a month ago, but yes this is the first time I have worn it". I grabbed my Sam Edelman booties AND my favorite vintage collar necklace from Ava + Aliria and this girl was ready for a night out.

Happy Birthday Hon!

Blazer - Urban Outfitters / Booties - Sam Edelman / Tights - Hue / Dress - Wyatt

Vintage collar necklace from Ava + Aliria.

Faux leather shift by Wyatt via Bluefly.com

Ava + Aliria. Check out their online store.

floral jeans

2012-03-26T17:56:00.001-07:00

That's right you heard me ... FLORAL JEANS! I have seen a few on blogs and clothing websites but I wasn't sure this was a trend I was going to like. Boy was I wrong. As I was browsing through the Anthropologie website I came across these adorable floral jeans. I couldn't wait to go to the store and try them on. We had to be out of our apartment all day on Saturday as the owners are trying to sell it so I knew this was my chance. I would send my boyfriend to go watch basketball as I escaped for a few minutes to run over to the nearest Anthro. Well as luck would have it there wasn't a bar open at 10am that was showing the games so he had to come with me. I didn't want to waste time since I know how much he doesn't like shopping so I asked the sales lady where they were in the store and she told me to go up the stairs. Once I got to the top I spotted them and immediately grabbed a couple sizes. The second I put them on I knew they were coming home with me. I showed my boyfriend and it was like he knew there wasn't much to say since it was pretty obvious I was in love.

I can't wait to mix and match these fun jeans with different patterns, t-shirts, blouses, sweaters ... you name it. Be prepared to see these jeans in numerous posts. If you are wondering if you can pull these pants off ...YOU CAN! So go out there and pick up a pair.

Jeans - Citizens of Humanity at Anthropologie / Shoes - Nine West / Sweater - Moth by Anthropologie / Bracelets - various

happy spring

2012-03-20T13:18:00.001-07:00

It's been a busy month so I do apologize. However, I didn't let you down. I managed to pick up a few goodies in between traveling for work, my sister's wedding, babysitting my nephew, and taking a three day road trip from LA to Seattle. I figured since it is officially the first day of Spring (or Summer for you Midwest folks) I would share with you a few of my "new" favorite things.

I have added a few extra photos. One of the cutest nephew in the world in his new aviator knit hat bought for him by me and one of my beautiful sister on her wedding day. It was an amazing event and I am kind of sad now that it is over and I have nothing to do with all my glitter. Hmmmmm I might need to think of a new DIY project ...

Vintage neon green dress - Shareen Vintage

Sam Edelman - Lulu Bootie - HauteLook.com

Urban Decay - Naked 2 eyeshadow - Sephora

Mac Lipstick - Blankety - MAC Cosmetics

Knit hat - Kid Firefly on Abbot Kinney

Most beautiful bride EVER!

friend's closet: erin s

2012-02-28T14:23:00.000-08:00

I have another closet you are going to die for, I mean D.I.E. I pretty much want to go over to her adorable house in Pacific Palisades and steal everything including her golden retriever Abe! (Erin, did you think I would forget Abe?) Never!!!

This newlywed has had an AWESOME year from getting married this past summer, moving and decorating their new house, and now expecting their first child this summer. I might have to do another post on Erin and her pregnancy fashion. She is truly a fashionista with a sense of style that one can only dream of having. I have a feeling her sense of style was inherited from her mother and passed down to both Erin and her fashion forward sister, Leigh (who actually works in the fashion industry in NYC).

Enjoy Erin's closet below and make sure and read about her favorite things! Thanks Erin!!! XOXO

Erin and Abe the Babe (soon-to-be big brother)

(Left to Right)
1. Just Cavalli dress in Ibiza - so fun
2. Illia cut out leather crop top and J Brand Love Story low rise boot cut jeans with Mom's old gold belt
3. Fave Current/Elliot Jean jacket

1) Describe your style.

Comfortable, mixed textures and lengths, lots of neutrals, sometimes on the fringe of inappropriate: I love a short short or skirt. Much more West Coast than East in terms of colors and level of formality. Oh, and heavy on the accessories. Style icons include Michelle Pfeiffer in the 70's, Kate Moss (oh, how I wish!), Cameron Diaz about 5 years ago, and any girl who rocks small boobies.

2) Where do you shop?
Fave: Planet Blue, Ron Herman, Barneys, Intermix.
More affordably: Anthropologie, Bloomingdale's, Gilt sales, flea market accessories.

3) What is your newest purchase?
Helmut Lang skirt and threadbare tee from Gilt sale.

4) What is your favorite accessory?
SUNGLASSES!!!!!!!!!!

5) Five things you can't live without.
If we're only talking fashion? Sunglasses, jean shorts, a bikini, flip flops, and a cozy sweater or flannel.

6) What is your favorite piece in your closet and why is it your favorite?
Currently L'Agence white top/dress. I go into more detail with its photo.

(Left to Right)
1 and 3. Closet views -- everything from Gryphon shorts to flannels (so Kurt Cobain, but I can't help but love 'em).

On the right you'll see some purchases I've made since finding out I'm pregnant. There's a chartreuse caftan in there and some super soft and drapey Helmut Lang tops and dresses. I'm not going to succumb to sweats just because I'm growing a little baby in my belly. Hey -- it's a great reason to go shopping for a new look!

2. This is the shoe part of my closet, shared with my husband Victor. I'm not big on buying shoes. Luckily, my mom is big on buying shoes FOR me!

1. These are my two rows of neutral shoes. I'm big on neutral shoes. They seem to elongate the leg and can work with most anything. Oh! And the ones on the bottom far left are McQueen, purchased before he passed away. I feel lucky to have them, and they were actually 75% off when I bought 'em.

2. THIS is one of my fondest flea market finds. It's an old jewelry cabinet. My sweet husband re-lined the drawers and compartments, but it was otherwise ready to use! I love that the side cabinets open up to hang long necklaces and that the top is a mirror. Drawers in the middle hold bangles and earrings. I really love this, and it was only 45 bucks.

(Left to Right)
1. Sunglasses are, without a doubt, my favorite accessory. They can hide a tired eye, provide an air of mystery (especially when that's not your strong suit, as is the case with me!), add dimension to your face and hair, and round out the personality of an outfit. My favorite brands are Chloe, Dita, and Thierry Lasry. The ones is this photo are Thierry Lasry and remind me of the Chloe favorites I left in the bathroom at Dodger Stadium. Oh, man.

2. Love this little slouchy clutch from Anthropologie. The colors are a great mix and oddly end up working with just about anything I throw on these days. I'd gotten tired of lugging around a big handbag, so I bought this little clutch in a hurry and haven't stopped carrying it since.

3. Having said that bit about not buying shoes, these are my most expensive shoe indulgence. I bought these in July of 2008, after just moving to Malibu from New York City. I thought they were the perfect little bootie: relaxed; neutral; reminiscent of a cowboy boot but not ready for a two-step; and hit just the right place on the ankle. I'm so proud of myself to say that they're the Isabel Marant bootie that seemed ubiquitous on celebrities this fall. I'd never say I'm ahead of the trends, but this purchase made me feel a little cocky. Probably because I'm still trying to justify spending about $650 on these boots.

4. Rag and Bone motorcycle boots. Bought them last summer and love em even after the trend has waned.

(Left to Right)
1. This is the outside of my closet, with shoe/hat/miscellaneous storage to the right. I'm grateful for this space!

3. My favorite grandpa cardigan in action with a long locket, threadbare white tee, and super-sheer black shorts with an unfinished lace edge detail. I love the elements in this outfit, and wearing them together was fun because of the mixture of light and heavy textures.

2. I freaking love this grandpa sweater. Mostly because my mom sewed on the elbow patches. I wanted a long, warm grandpa sweater to throw over dresses and short shorts, and my mom found the perfect sweater without patches. Never fear: she sewed them on just right.

(Left to Right)
1. I just love this silk Maeve wrap dress. It's classy while leaving endless accessory possibilities to the imagination, from arm parties (thanks Man Repeller) to bold colors to a statement earring or necklace. It has trapunto detail and great, slouchy pockets. Also, the length is perfect for a high neutral shoe.

2. This shirt/dress from L'Agence is my favorite shirt right now. It always makes me feel cute, and it hides the pregnancy bumps while hearkening softly back to the time when our moms dressed like babies when they were carrying babies in their bellies!

3. This is the little camisole that lines the L'Agence top I love so much. Just such a perfect thing to throw on when you want to look pretty.

4. Illia perforated leather crop top. No, I cannot and do not wear it now with a pregnant belly, but it's just the greatest top for high-waisted jeans or even thrown over the right dress. The unfinished edge makes it even better. Love this; it's such an original.

5. This jacket cost me $10 from Gabriel Bros., the best store near my home town. Don't go into "Gabe's" if you don't have vision or are afraid of a little grime, though. This place is for the bargain warriors, who will always emerge victorious. This little wool jacket is perfect over a threadbare white tee and fun accessories, especially in a climate like LA where the cold sneaks out and grabs you from nowhere.

6. My sister bought this great Current Elliott jean jacket for me for Christmas. She knows I have always loved a jean jacket, whether or not they're "in." This one reminds me of a chanel suit jacket, and it has metal piping detail. It's such a great mixture of 80's, Chanel-inspiration, and the unexpected texture. Looks great with little dresses, skirts, or a white tee.

(Left to Right)
1. Favorite L'Agence top in action with Elizabeth and James jacket, Oscar de la Renta earrings, simple black leggings and a patent nude wedge.

2. I'm sharing this photo because it combines a lot of things I love: a neutral heel; a whisper-thin lavender cashmere scarf that my friend Monica bought me this birthday; L'Agence "skinny sweats"; a long, thin tank, also by L'Agence; a Current Elliot faded jean jacket; a long gold necklace; and hot roller hair. NOW, you may be saying, "Erin. Some of those things are really 'out.'" To you I say, "Be that as it may." There are some things that become signature for you, and some of mine make an appearance in this photo. As for the L'Agence items -- well, even though they are technically "sweats" and are so soft and comfy you feel like you're living in a cloud, because of their fit, color and cut, you can actually dress them up and hit the road without feeling like you smell.

Note, I think I'm also sporting a highly-attended arm party in this photo as well (thanks, Leigh, for pointing that out). Sometimes 5 bracelets just aren't enough.

3. one of my favorite skirts, purchased at a small Manhattan Beach boutique, with old linen Banana Republic blazer, James Perse tee, and Anouk boots.

My fave wedding photo, which shows the veil I had made. It's actually 9 strips of 20-inch fabric that blew in the wind to compliment the movement of the dress.

Dress is "The Margot," one of Shareen of Shareen Vintage's custom designs.

Veil I had made thanks to the expert eye and inspiration of Enzo Angileri.

5 months' pregnant in L'Agence dress with favorite Current/Elliot jean jacket.

red carpet favs

2012-02-27T09:41:00.002-08:00

OK so I was planning on doing a post about my friend's closet today but since yesterday was the Academy Awards I thought I would share with you my favorites. Happy Monday!

Milla Jovovich in Elie Saab Couture
Flawless and stunning.

Gwynth Paltrow in Tom Ford
I love the long cape so sophisticated and glamorous.

Rose Byrne in Vivienne Westwood
This dress is just as stunning in the back as it is in the front.
Her hair looked perfect with this stunner of a dress. Absolutely GORG!

Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton
Love, love, love. I love the little diamond bow. Just a little accent to an already perfect dress.

Missi Pyle in Valentina Delfino
The color of this dress looked amazing on her. She looked fresh and beautiful.

Octavia Spencer in Tadashi Shoji
This might be my favorite of the night. The dress is beyond gorgeous and it looked amazing on her.

Sandra Bullock in Marchesa
Now this dress was not a fav on a lot of websites but I loved it. You have to see the back to really appreciate the beauty of it. If anyone can pull this of Sandra could and she did.

All photos are from http://www.style.com/ or http://www.instyle.com/. Check out these websites for more Oscar fashion.

friend's closet: beth m/g

2012-02-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

Awe another AWESOME closet! Trust me this is a closet you would love to have. I knew my friend Beth would be game for this fun little project since she is a shopaholic (like myself). We constantly send each other website links asking "should I get this?"

As you can see in the photos below Beth enjoys accessorizing her outfits with fun, bold necklaces. Another fun little tidbit about Beth is that she is a make-up artist on the side so be sure and check out her amazing make-up collection.

Thanks Beth for taking us inside your closet and congratulations on your recent marriage, you were a beautiful bride!!

1) Describe your style.
I love mixing classic staples with of-the-moment pieces and punchy makeup looks (a winged cat eye, bright or dark lips or unexpected nail polish colors). I would say that my style morphs depending on my mood; I equally love sugary sweet, overly girly dresses and über androgynous, leather encased looks. If I could afford to buy anything I wanted, you could probably call my sense of style "Edgy European Rock Chick." Think Kate Moss meets The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

2) Where do you shop?
I could go to Zara every day and find something I had to have; I've recently become obsessed with fashion blogs and look to them for inspiration on how to mix in pieces from there. I love LF but can only afford to hit up their mega sales and AllSaints... I just walk through and admire everything that I will one day be able to afford once I win the mega-millions. I shop at H&M and Forever 21 for fun additions and like to mix in effortlessly chic pieces from Brandy Melville and indie/punk pieces from Urban Outfitters. I also cruise around on eBay to scoop-up accessories at major discounts. I've scored some majorly awesome goods at my local Buffalo Exchange, including a sexy (new!) Diane von Furstenberg dress, a silk Marc Jacobs dress and a few practically new AllSaints get-ups. And I'm addicted to L.A.M.B. handbags and shoes, which I will only purchase through online flash sales or from Nordstrom Rack.

3) What is your newest purchase?
A pale pink and black long-sleeved top from Zara: it's flowy, a gorgeous shade of blush and has these cool mesh arm accents that make me look like I'm wearing shoulder holsters.

4) What is your favorite accessory?
I have to say it's a close call between two clutches - a gold-sequined clutch from Zara and black leather L.A.M.B. clutch. The Zara clutch makes me happy just looking at it and I love that the lining is my favorite color (purple)! It is big enough to hold a lot more than a typical clutch and it adds a bit of dressy fun to anything you pair it with. The gold goes with anything - in the daytime it appears a bit more muted and when the sun goes down it shines like a mirror ball and attracts a lot of attention. My black L.A.M.B. clutch makes me feel cool just carrying it. The leather is exquisitely soft and the zippers and tassel add a bit of rock star to anything I pair it with.

5) Five things you can't live without.
In my closet: a pair of black liquid leggings (they look like leather) from Kova & T, my Car Mar jeans from LF, a professor cardigan from LF, my J.Crew chambray shirt that goes with everything and my gray riding boots from Charles David. Other things that I can't live without: my shiny new husband, my cats (all three but I'm only counting them as one), my central heat/air-conditioning, coffee and Trader Joe's oat bran.

6) What is your favorite piece in your closet and why is it your favorite?
A pair of brown suede Sam Edelman western fringed booties. I can seem to make them work with anything and they add a bit of edginess to anything you pair them with. You can keep them unfolded or fold them down for a different look. They add a good bit of height but I could walk in them for miles - and by now I definitely have!

Her multiple closets!!!!

Her collection of necklaces, accessories and MAKE-UP!

Her favorites: Sam Edelman booties / Charles David boots / Zara and L.A.M.B clutches

Just a few of her work outfits

Beth and her new HUSBAND! Married on NYE this year.

not so sure

2012-01-31T14:06:00.000-08:00

I have been obsessing since September over these hot pink pants from JCrew. I finally decided I had to have them since I had been thinking about them for so long. In November I ordered them only to find out they were on backorder until the end of January. I FINALLY received them and now I am not even sure I like them. I don't think they are the most flattering for my figure. I have decided to ask my readers. Should I keep them or send them back? Let me know what you think. Thanks for the help!

Cheers!

Blazer - Urban Outfitters / Shirt - H&M / Pants - JCrew / Shoes - Dolce Vita / Jewelry - Vintage

friend's closet: jill v

2012-01-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

Awe ya! It's time for another friend's closet post. I knew when I approached my friends about this fun little project I would get great responses and I also knew that my friend Jill would be the perfect person for this. She loves fashion (we have the same taste in clothes) and is a awesome photographer. I couldn't wait for her photos. I didn't even know were to begin so I made a bunch of collages with her photos so you can really get an idea for her sense of style. She has a great way of incorporating California cool with Parisian vintage pieces. (Jill I think we need to take a shopping trip to Paris just for vintage pieces! Not joking!)

I know you will enjoy her closet as much as I do! Thanks Jill!!!

Oh and I am obsessed with her vintage clutches.

Not sure which outfit I like best. As you can see she loves dresses and accessories.

This is actually two photos. The left side of her closet and half of the right side of her closet.

1) Describe your style.
My style is evolving. I try to take chances with my clothing which can be difficult living in a small beach community and no less easy living in Hawthorne. I am inspired by women who take risks and have the gift of layering various prints/fabrics and make it look effortless. Thanks to blogs like Little Black Sequin and Atlantic-Pacific, I find inspiration & courage to step outside my comfort zone. During the summer I lean towards a bohemian style wearing maxi dresses, sandals, lots of jewelry, and lightweight hats – I love anything that flows in the summer especially a boho top paired with destroyed denim jeans and a wedge or platform heel. Nicole Richie & Rachel Zoe are my summer style icons. When fall and winter hit I lean slightly more traditional with my work style, I usually wear tailored menswear inspired clothing – channeling my inner Diane Keaton, I am a sucker for a high waisted, wide leg trouser pant, fitted sweater, belt and high heels OR sheath dress, tights, heels or knee high boots. As for my every day style when spring hits, I find myself walking the line of winter and summer by pairing bold/bright colored dresses (short or maxi) OR striped tunics, motorcycle jacket with black tights and heels or leather boots. I try to find balance in pairing feminine and masculine pieces.

2) Where do you shop?
If money weren’t an issue I’d regularly shop Bloomingdales, M. Frederic, Free People and every boutique up & down the streets of Manhattan Beach and Melrose Avenue. I’ve learned to shop on a dime. Due to a budget that is much smaller than I’d prefer much of my wardrobe can be found at Forever 21, H&M, Nordstrom Rack, Target & Nine West. Most of my denim/jeans are purchased at Nordstrom Rack or M. Frederic because I believe denim is worth the splurge. I can spend hours in Forever 21, they offer an incredible variety at unbeatable prices. H&M offers great work clothing from trendy pieces to wardrobe staples at prices that can’t be matched. Nordstrom Rack offers me the Bloomingdales experience on a Forever 21 budget. Target pulls through with stylish dresses for winter and summer and never disappoints with their clearance pieces. Nine West’s Boutique 9 shoe line is a stylish girl(with big feet)’s dream.

3) What is your newest purchase?
Joe’s Jeans – The Visionnaire. I wear them at least twice a week. A tweed multi-colored belted coat with faux fur collar & ¾ sleeves from Forever 21 – it’s a statement piece.

4) What is your favorite accessory?
It’s a toss up: My brown snake skin clutch I purchased at a vintage shop in Paris and chunky rings that can be worn on any finger.

5) Five things you can't live without.
How about six-ish things: Black turtleneck, Denim, Platform heels, Maxi dresses, Black satin wide leg jumpsuit and ... accessories: costume jewelry/scarves/hats/belts

6) What is your favorite piece in your closet and why is it your favorite?
Black satin and crochet floor length dress from Forever 21’s Boutique Line: Twelve by Twelve. I wore it to a friend’s wedding rehearsal and most recently on NYE. While I have only worn the dress twice in the more the 3.5 years I have owned it, both times I felt sexy, comfortable, fashion forward and transformed. I can transform my look in just one dress depending on the accessories, makeup and hair styled with the dress. I included a silhouette photo of the dress and head self-portrait from NYE in the dress.

L to R - Vintage clutches and vintage camera / Vintage snakeskin clutch found in Paris / Vintage clutches found in Redondo Beach, CA / Vintage ring that belonged to her Mother / Necklaces from Urban Outfitters, Banana Republic and SF sspeciality store / Tribal necklaces from Forever21

Vintage camera and turquoise ring from a market in Paris, Silver spoon ring from the South of France, Gold cuff was a gift, Silver and diamond bracelet from Stella & Dot, Red ring and feather earrings from Forever 21 / Just 1/2 of her belt collection. She doesn't go anywhere without a belt. / Vintage clutches and rolled chunky sweaters / Painted coat rack with accessories from all over.

Booties - Nine West Boutique 9 / Tall boots - Steve Madden

Here are a few of her favorite outfits. She has combined vintage pieces with brand names such as Joe's Jeans, Forever21, etc.

friend's closet: jess d

2012-01-18T15:20:00.000-08:00

I have decided to do a weekly post on my friend's closets. All my friend's have fun unique style and I am always curious what their closet's look like or what their favorite pieces are. I have asked some of my dear friend's to answer a few questions and send me photos of their closets, outfits, and favorite things.

So to start off my weekly posts let me introduce you to Jess. She lives in Southern California, had an adorable baby boy a couple months ago and believe it or not is currently in law school. I have always admired her "California Cool" look and love that her husband recently helped her reorganize her shoe collection (picture below). Thanks Jess!!

wearing her favorite shirt / her bohemian look / all time favorite = jeans and a scarf

1. How would you describe your style?
Well, I’d love to be either funky Gwen Stefani or bohemian Sienna Miller, but I’m realistically much more vanilla in the Jennifer Aniston, white t-shirt and jeans category.

2. Where do you shop?
Macys, Target, Rimo (on Sawtelle on the Westside of LA)

3. What is your latest purchase?
Camel colored open toe high-heeled booties, tangerine colored skinny jeans, sequin tank top.

4. What is your favorite accessory?
Scarves!

5. What are five things you can’t live without?
Scarves, black watch, off-white wool blend jacket, lululemon workout pants, MEK jeans, and cross body bags.

6. What is your favorite piece in your closet and why is it your favorite?
My white and silver lace-hemmed tank top. Makes the boobs look good, is forgiving around the middle and has just a touch of funkiness to it!

diy: glittery heels

2012-01-07T10:35:00.000-08:00

I have been looking for the perfect silver glittery heels for my sister's wedding. Of course, everything I liked was over $280 (without shipping). I even found a pair of Jerome C. Rousseau's glitter shoes on sale for $200 and called every Saks Fifth Avenue, only to find out they are sold out of my size. What’s a girl to do? Oh, I know, make my own! I had recently decided I was going to do a DIY project where I change a plain pair of black heels into black shoes with a glittery heel (thanks to a blog post from Pretty Shiny Sparkly), but why not do the whole shoe in glitter? It worked and I love them. See directions below on how to make your own pair of glittery heels. Please note - you will get glitter everywhere. Our apartment is now sparkling (my boyfriend is a real trooper).

Before and After.

Supplies Needed:
- pair of shoes
- 2 sizes of glitter (coarse and fine or extra fine)
- Aleene's Jewel-It embellishing glue
- Mod Podge gloss sealer
- foam and regular brushes
All these supplies were bought at a local JoAnn's.

Adding the Glitter:
1. mix the coarse and fine glitter into a bowl and add Aleene's Jewel-It embellishing glue
2. brush the glue and glitter on the shoe
3. cover the entire shoe by sprinkling the coarse glitter
4. sprinkle the fine or extra fine glitter to get a more complete coverage
5. let the glue dry overnight

Adding the Finishing Touches:
1. mix a bowl of the Mod Podge sealer and fine or extra fine glitter
2. using a foam brush cover the entire shoe with the Mod Podge
3. let the sealant dry for 24 hours
This will seal the glitter on the shoe so you aren't leaving a trail of glitter when you walk.

The Finished Product.
The Perfect Bridesmaid Glittery Heels!!!!
I can't stop staring at them.

Inspiration 1 are Something Bleu from BHLDN
Inspiration 2 are Jerome C. Rousseau. Photo from ShoeTease.com

another sparkly day

2012-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

Did you think I was done with sequins and glitter just because New Year's Eve is over? Heck no. Actually, one of my favorite blogs Pretty Shiny Sparkly is doing her Bloggers Do It Better posts about sequins. Screeeeeechhhhhhh I am pretty sure it would be a sin if I didn't participate in this one. So here is another sequin outfit. Plus I just got these shoes and wore them on NYE so it was time to introduce them to the blog. Happy Friday!

Sequin cardigan - vintage / Shirt - JCrew / Skirt - Single / Tights - Hue / Shoes - BCBG / Necklace - Vintage

2011 - a year of outfits

2011-12-30T04:58:00.000-08:00

I decided to take a look back at my favorite outfits of 2011. Thank you to everyone who has followed my blog. I am excited about 2012 and can't wait to share my inspirations, ideas, and outfits with you.

Wishing everyone a wonderful 2012! Happy New Year!

XOXO, Jane

hint of sparkle

2011-12-23T11:30:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of my everything sparkly posts. Which kind of makes me sad. I decided to accessorize my outfit with a little sparkle. It just adds a little something to an outfit. This belt is one of my favorite presents given to me by my old roommates before I moved to Seattle. I chose a dress from ... can you guess it ... Ava + Aliria. Seriously, if you live in LA and are in the South Bay Area you must stop by this boutique. I have worn this dress multiple times and just realized how cute it would be with this belt. Next date night outfit ... DONE! That's right there will be no waiting for me to get ready my outfit is already picked out.

Season's Greetings Everyone. Cheers!

Dress - Ever / Belt - Anthro / Tights - Hue / Shoes - Dolce Vita / Jewelry - random

just a little sparkle

2011-12-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

For Day 3 I have decided to take my favoirte maxi dress from H&M and pair it with a little sequin jacket from Urban Outfitters. I've never considered this pairing before but I am loving it. With the pattern of the dress and the sequins of the jacket it's not to over the top but just enough sparkle to make a girl feel special.

Happy Day 3 and Happy long weekend!

Dress - H&M / Jacket - Urban Outfitters / Jewelry - Guess, Stell & Dot and Anthro / Ring - Vintage

sequins galore

2011-12-20T15:17:00.000-08:00

Day 2 of everything sparkly and I am starting to wonder why I never did this before. Maybe I should wear sequins every single day??? Again I have to give a shout out to Ava + Aliria in Manhattan Beach, CA. I found this sequin top in their vintage section. I don't know if you can see it in the pictures but in between all the beads are rows and rows of sequins. This shirt probably weighs 10 lbs. BUT I love it so much that it's worth the extra weight. It's a great layering piece over my Hackwith Design House dress. Throw on my favorite vintage belt and Voila an outfit is born.

Happy Day 2!! Safe travels to anyone traveling this Holiday Weekend.

Dress - Hackwith Design House / Top - Vintage from Ava + Aliria / Shoes - Aldo / Belt - Vintage / Bracelets - Random (Stella & Dot)

twinkle twinkle little black sequin

2011-12-20T14:09:00.000-08:00

There is a reason I named my blog Little Black Sequin ... I am obsessed with sequins. Today is Day 1 of all things that sparkle. I have decided for the next 4 days I will post a new outfit with ... sequins (of some sort). I can't remember where I got this vintage sequin shirt but the pants and purse are from my favorite store in Manhattan Beach, CA called Ava + Aliria. Now that I think about it I wouldn't be surprised if this shirt is from there too? I am a true believer that every girl should have a sequin top (at least one if not multiple). You can find them at any vintage shop, etsy, ebay or in your mom's attic.

Here's to Day 1! Cheers!!!

Shirt - Vintage / Purse - Vintage (from Ava + Aliria) / Pants - Collective Concepts / Shoes - Nine West / Jewelry - Assortment (Anthro, Guess, random)