MiniRedApple

I'm Back!

2014-03-28T16:26:00.000-04:00

Hey loves! I can't believe how long it's been since I've posted to my blog or youtube channel. I spent some time disconnected from my personal social networking, thought about my blog occasionally but never took the time to post. However, recently, I've been inspired to return and now here I am. AH, so much to catch everyone up on (that is, if there's still readers out there... hey y'all!). But instead of doing that all that chitter chat, I'll just blog what's most recent and relevant..

Ok so,

I'm a year away from my degree.. a degree that took 2 major-changes to finally settle into. My mindset and outlook on life has taken a complete 180. I've never felt so happy in my 2 decades on earth. I've been designing clothes. Yes literally I've started creating something! And it's the most rewarding, relaxing, and exciting thing I've done yet.

I know it's hard to tell by the above photos (clearly I was attempting to channel my inner model or something), but I'm seriously bursting with joy over the fact that I made the 3 pieces featured in the photos. Not only that, I created a formal gown a few weeks ago. See below.

So now that I have you all somewhat caught up. Let's get to the good stuff. I've made an asymmetrical skater dress (with exposed-back detail), halter top (american apparel inspired), and athletic shorts (aka biker shorts). Photos are below...

What I like most about this growing ability to sew is the chance to express myself in a different medium. I don't want to get too deep here, but it's so exciting to show all sides of myself through something that I manually create. All of the garments above demonstrate a piece of me... the elegant side, the edgy side, the daring side. They're all part of me. I'm growing more comfortable with that everyday.

xo, Courtney.

Same dress?

2013-09-26T16:34:00.001-04:00

Stumbled across similar dresses on both Forever21 & MakeMeChic.

OOTD | Feelin grungy

2013-09-24T20:47:00.000-04:00

The campus experience, at my university, means lots and lots of walking. So today I opted for my platform sneakers. They're actually more comfortable than anyone would expect. I have a pair of Jef Cam platform sneakers but they're terribly heavy and also uncomfortable around the toes. These velvet babies only cost 20 something dollars at H&M, and they're perfection.

I was going for a look inspired partially by the 90s grungy-punk era. I tried not go too overdone and keep it simple. The plaid and round sunnies add those touches. I am also wearing one dangly ear cuff to add a little extra something-something.

Top: (actually dress) Thrifted

Shorts: NastyGal - MinkPink

Plaid shirt: Thrifted

Platform sneaks: H&M

Ear cuff: H&M

Sunnies: Forever21

Milan never disappoints

2013-09-24T15:47:00.001-04:00

The spring/summer 2014 RTW collections have continued into Milan.

Dolce & Gabbana

Since I became interested in fashion & style, D&G has always been one of my favorite set of designers. Ah, this S/S collection brings back memories from Luxe Mode Fashion Style Off: where I styled one of my looks based of their 2012 Fall collection

Emilio Pucci

Okay officially obsessed with Emilio Pucci. I love the little bits of sportiness his looks have. Casual enough to be worn day to day (by celebrities of course) and still look like a badass.

Gucci

I can never be disappointed by Gucci but I must admit this collection seemed "one trick" like. Majority of the looks featured the strappy bralette beneath a long, flowing maxi. I expected more but still loved it nonetheless.

Just Cavalli

Can you say freaking london streetwear?! *lusty face*. Im wayyy past obsessed with this collection. I think the look (all the way to the right) is my favorite. After seeing it, I immediately started figuring out ways to do an affordable look inspired by it. The prints are a bit out there, but it absolutely works.

Style Consultation | Guilene G.

2013-09-23T19:49:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone! Meet Guilene.

I spent a couple of hours with her putting together outfits from some of her favorite pieces.

As you can see, Guilene loves her prints and patterns. Bright colors and statement tops are a staple in her closet. She's really into finding pieces at the thrift store, so most of her items are unique and affordable.

In the two looks above, I paired the same pants in different outfits to show how easily they can transition from day to night ... dressy to casual.

This look was one of my favorites. Here, me and Guilene elaborated on the use of accessories: how something as simple as a statement necklace can enhance your look.

For a more casual look, I paired her cropped culottes with an oversized chiffon top. Never underestimate the power of tucking in a t-shirt. The shirt she is wearing here is actually long enough to double as a tunic/dress.

And this look was my favorite. Perfect for day or night.

Book your Style Consultation today!

MiniRedAppleEmail@gmail.com

On Staying Motivated

2013-09-17T22:42:00.003-04:00

To my left, there's four college textbooks stacked high. Behind it, a Patternmaking for Fashion Design: 4th Edition. To my right, a clock ... and it's late. Behind me, new clothes straight from China (possibly poor quality), a sewing machine, and a picture of me graduating pre-school.

Now, what does all this have to do with staying motivated? Here's the thing. Right now I should be studying. I should be reading a chapter, learning the necessary facts to pass my test tomorrow, or something. Instead, I'm too busy day dreaming because I'd rather be right here typing away my thoughts. Shall we begin....

Gosh I can't tell you how often the importance of college is reiterated to me. "Without a degree I won't get far" .... "Those skills you're learning will be useful later" ... "Everybody needs to have a degree to get a job" BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH YADDA YADDA BLAH.

*deep sigh* I'm so fed up with this crap. I don't know, maybe this is just that 3rd-year-in-college itch most of us feel, that feeling of wanting to just drop it all and go pursue 'my dream' ... right? I have not a clue. All I know is that in the last week, I have said the phrase "college is so inconvenient" at least 6 times. But nevermind my depressing rant, lol. This post is actually about something.

After getting off the phone and having an eye opening conversation with my momma, I've realized several things:
(1) dammit, i need to stop throwing this pity party.
(2) basically every other college student will be dead broke after graduation too.
(3) I need to stop wasting time complaining, and start doing something about it.

My biggest struggle since starting college has been committing to getting involved in an organization. Freshmen year I didn't see it as a big deal, I just viewed it as a way people make friends. So I would attend a meeting here and there, only to later gave it up, and then find other personal hobbies instead ... aha. Moving on ... I am now (in my junior year) realizing the true significance of joining an organization. It's not about the people you meet, although that is nice, but it's about the experience you have.

Now if you rewind a couple of posts, then you know for a fact that I associate with the "socially awkward" title. But something my mom made me realize was that the socially awkward are often the most original-minded people, AND that I am only as socially awkward as I think I am. If for one second I would stop spending time thinking about it, then I could let the real me show through... including my beautiful awkwardness and all.

So what stops me from being motivated? what stops me from joining an organization? my issue is my doubt. I don't ever want to be viewed as inadequate. Which is so strange because in privacy I am so confident in my abilities. I outline plans, come up with concepts, brainstorm and create ideas. But, In crowds, I speak up only when I am absolutely, 100% sure that my idea will be accepted.

"Success is all in the risk" ... I just came up with that myself, by the way.
Perhaps thats the key... i need to be willing to take the risk. I need to be willing to feel uncomfortable. I have to work myself out of this shell and into the vast ocean (using sea analogies here because my zodiac is Cancer) because the experiences out there are endless.

I don't want to be afraid to do what I want anymore. I am confident...

newbies & stuff

2013-09-14T19:36:00.000-04:00

So recently made some new unnecessary purchases... This always happens by accident.

New sandals... My previous black/gold ones were so perfect, I wore them until the straps began to fall apart. lol... So these were actually needed.

Ahh Burgundy Velvet *lusty face* ... im obsessed with this color and fabric.

New printed socks.

I've been wanting to add a pop of something to this area. The flowers were the perfect touch. I'm not much of a florist but I think I did pretty decent with my choices.

A vase and some tiny rocks made for the perfect brush holder.

The reason for the new socks ;-)

Check out my haul video including these boots here

flexin on these heauxs

2013-09-14T18:04:00.001-04:00

Top: Ebay

Shorts: Thrift

Shoes: Converse

For some reason I have this weird obsession with raising an arm in my pictures. I just think "getting angular" is kinda cool... Lol, anyway... i forgot to share this outfit. Check out my instagram for more:

@LittleCourt_

videos i've been loving

2013-09-14T10:30:00.000-04:00

Sooo, first off.. something has got me hooked on house music. but furthermore.. this video has such a beautiful message: If you ever feel outcasted or like you don't fit in... go where you belong.

Tips for grinding and getting what you want in life, advice straight from the pros. #BeShameless

And if you're looking to laugh until your stomach hurts ... meet Alphacat

Miley Cyrus in review :: shakes head ::

2013-09-10T14:31:00.000-04:00

Watch this first ..

Okay, so there's about a billion and one things i could say about this video. But let's keep it simple... Miley made quite a decent song here, a good song actually. Problem is... her emotional and mental troubles that she's dealing with are beginning to affect her career. --- simply but, the chick is trippin and soon its gonna start messing with her money.

Who takes a "heartbreak" song, and then ruins it with gaudy sexploitation? How badly do you need people to think you're sexy. We get it miley, you're struggling with something. But dang girl, you're handling it all wrong.

Girls out there that are possibly reading this, let me just say.. I do not think Miley Cyrus is a bad person, (woman, girl or whatever) at all. Like many young women, she's dealing with something that she's too embarrassed to talk about. If there's any advice I can give from her situation, it's don't let anyone change you. Stay true to yourself even during the toughest times. Allowing obstacles to overcome you can be deadly. In Miley's case, her obstacle is killing her career.

New York Fashion Week, Spring 2014 RTW

2013-09-10T14:19:00.001-04:00

Okay so I've been obsessing over everything New York Fashion Week. I have to admit I was let down by a few of my favorite designers *ahem Prabal Gurung ahem*. However, for the most part I've stumbled across some that have truly caught my eye. I forgot to include one of my favorites, Rodarte. I love their creativity but their ready-to-wear for the upcoming season just wasn't my cup of tea.

Diane von Furstenberg

L.A.M.B.

Tracy Reese

Socially Awkward

2013-08-21T22:30:00.001-04:00

Yep here's another thought-filled post.

It's funny how I can express the things I'm thinking better in writing than in speaking. But anywayyy, college is back in session and I'm already starting to experience a bit of social anxiety.

I honestly have not the slightest clue why.. Well.. Yeah I do know why. I just don't wanna write it. my problem is that I tend to over evaluate EVERY SITUATION EVER . Can u imagine how annoying that can get for my brain?

Like for real, I'm constantly thinking about thinking. And worrying about what others are thinking and worrying about. Who the heck does that ?! I'm not normal, I've come to realize that, but boy do I fake it well.

"Fake." The word I despise most and yet I can be an active version of it. not to say I'm the type to talk about someone the moment they turn around. That has never been me. But I do put on a facade, like play a role or whatever. But I'm working on it, tryna show people the real Courtney.

I must say I really enjoy having this blog. It's almost like I can come here and express a real version of me. Like the piece of me people don't see when I smile and say hey. To those who read it, I appreciate u more than anything. Because even thought you'll probably never say it to me .. You now know just a little bit more about me.

Recently Styled | Jamisin L. + Upcoming mens trends for 2014

2013-08-09T20:14:00.000-04:00

Images: Spring 2014 Menswear for AMI (left), Prada (middle), Gucci (right)

Okay so I've never been one to dabble in menswear. But recently a stylist and friend of mine has convinced me and given me a reason to be interested in male styling.

He challenged me to style him in a floral mens blazer from Zara. Immediately my reaction was quite iffy. I had never styled men, yet alone styled such a feminine pattern on a man. With his assistance I was able to style a look with pieces he already owned. By pairing it with a graphic t-shirt and trousers I was able to bring masculinity back into the look. Check it out below ...

OOTD | The Cross Maxi

2013-08-08T22:48:00.001-04:00

Top: Forever21
Skirt: Forever21
Shoes: H&M

I could not wait to bust in my new platform sneakers from H&M. Perfectly comfortable and added that extra touch I needed. Soo anyway today I had a day off, so I created a to-do list with pretty simple instructions: buy a bathing suit & shoot a youtube video. To my luck, I accomplished both! Somehow, I ended up purchasing a few more items than just a bathing suit and my old tripod broke as I was attempting to shoot my first sets of pics but I accomplished everything nonetheless. Luckily, I had just purchased a new tripod from amazon to go with my BRAND NEW DSLR!!!! I'm so happy, I'm finally the owner of a Canon Rebel T2i... she's my baby, her name is Betty. So bigs up to her amazing self for shooting the above images. Can't wait to start creating more posts and more videos now that image quality is aligned with my expectations.

cant wait !

2013-08-05T00:38:00.001-04:00

Yeah i'll definitely be tuned in.

SHOP ONLINE @ H&M U.S. !

2013-08-01T19:51:00.000-04:00

H&M for the United States now has online shopping !!!
Head over to ... hm.com

Definitely Obsessed | Alice + Olivia

2013-08-01T17:52:00.002-04:00

I am absolutely in looove with the Alice + Olivia Fall 2013 Ready to Wear collection. These pieces are completely on trend for the upcoming season. From plaids, over the knee boots, faux fur "remixed", to the crossover of spring florals to fall florals. The whole collection is amazing and I officially have a new favorite designer, Stacey Bendet.

For the entire collection: Style.com

Rihanna sues Topshop

2013-08-01T01:47:00.000-04:00

So it seems that Rihanna has sued Topshop for selling a tshirt branded with her face on it. Some may know Rihanna has designed a clothing line at a rival store, River Island.

Many failed to believe that Rihanna had authorized selling of the tshirt because she is currently establishing herself as a designer rather than an image, i suppose.

Nonetheless, the shirt has been pulled from the racks.

OOTD | the paisley shorts

2013-07-29T16:34:00.002-04:00

Look:
Shirt: Ross
Shorts: Ebay
Shoes: Steve Madden
Shades: RayBan

Recently Styled | Britney E.

2013-07-27T01:22:00.001-04:00

Roughly a week ago, me and some of my friends caught up in Atlanta. With two of them planning to attend the Beyonce concert... I thought this would be a great opportunity to provide some of my styling tips for them.

With only 2 hours left before the concert, all of us hit up H&M to shop for both the concert and for events later that night. We all had limited clothing options, and as an added challenged Britney forgot to pack her bag of shoes.

So as for the final result, I styled her in a striped chiffon tank and side slit pants with revealed shorts underneath. So that she could feel sexy without revealing too much. I finished off the look with a gold link necklace and black booties.

3 back-to-school looks with one white t shirt.

2013-07-26T01:54:00.001-04:00

3 back-to-school looks with one white t shirt. by miniredapple featuring high top shoes

Majestic top
$77 - zalando.co.uk

Jean shorts
societyofchic.com

Zara super skinny jeans
zara.com

River Island acid wash skirt
$31 - riverisland.com

Supra footwear
zumiez.com

High top shoes
etsy.com

Combat booties
lulus.com

Jansport daypack
pacsun.com

2b canvas rucksack
2bstores.com

Lobster claw charm
gojane.com

It's time for me to speak some real ...

2013-07-23T23:48:00.000-04:00

Why do I put up with unnecessary people in my life?

and why do I allow sour emotions to overcome me?

and why do I settle for less than I deserve?

These questions constantly rattle me. And it's time I answered them.

Long answer short, because I equate my worth with the wrong f*cking things. Excuse my french but i just need to get a few things off my chest.

Okay, so where can I begin ... first question

Why do I put up with unnecessary people in my life?

Ha, well in all honesty it's because like most people in their youth, I require attention and approval. I suppose that I have yet to reach a point in my life where people's opinions of me JUST DONT MATTER. And i can say "I DON'T CARE WHAT PEOPLE THINK" a thousand times over, rehearse it in the mirror and all ... but when I wake up in the morning, I don't get dressed for myself ... NO, I get dressed for y'all suckas. (not to say yall are really suckas, lol). "Dress to impress" they say ... "always dress for your worst enemy" they say. Great advice, until I realized that my choices are guided by forces other than my own opinion! I allow negative opinions and thoughts from others to motivate me toward greatness, but that's a weak force, Because it's unreliable and makes me too d*mn emotional. Maaaan ... "so you're telling me im insecure?" ... wow, can't remember how many times I've confided in others for the answer to that question. But I don't believe insecurity is the word. Yeah somedays I'm down and feel like people "just don't get me" ... but isn't that what makes individuality so great? So, the point is.. that I allow the wrong type of people around me because to me that means that in someway they accept me, weirdness.. craziness.. awkwardness included.

But the real questions to ask are what kind of person am I? What kind of people should be around me?

Why do I allow sour emotions to overcome me?

Hmm, maybe its just my nature. Maybe you're not big on zodiac signs but I kinda am .. and well i'm a cancer and I'm also a female. These two characteristics make for one shaky being. The problem isn't the emotions, its the fact that negative emotions take over because I let my strength down in certain situations, specifically when experiencing envy and lust. Those two are tough ones because they become so easy to feed into. I allow my heart to speak before my mind, which can be really risky because thinking critically is very crucial in this world today... One wrong turn can take your life. I'm going off on a tangent here, but anyway.. I'm basically tryna say that I'm an emotional person. Most people can't stand it, but whatever. That's how I think and deal with situations, through emotion... and while i AM a very logical person, I have to admit that my emotions are intense, sometimes they're too ridiculous for me, lol. But I'm working on it, I'm building strength in other places and learning to be guided by thought and emotion .. not just one or the other.

Why do I settle for less than I deserve?

I suppose this question is strictly based around knowing and understanding my worth.
still figuring that one out.

for the gladiators

2013-07-23T21:05:00.001-04:00

for the gladiators by miniredapple featuring vince camuto

McQ by Alexander McQueen mini dress
$920 - harrods.com

High heels
nastygal.com

Yves saint laurent
mytheresa.com

Vince camuto
shoptheshoebox.com

Linda Farrow matte sunglasses
monamoore.com

Tom ford
neimanmarcus.com

Miniredapple has a facebook page !

2013-07-07T21:09:00.002-04:00

The facebook page was born just last night. Go ahead and like it, you don't want to miss a thing!

PRESS THIS HERE

music on my mind

2013-07-05T18:04:00.000-04:00

Songs I Find Myself Playing again & again:
(in no particular order)

1. Bandz ft. Meek Mill - Travi$ Scott
2. The Motion - Drake
3. Crooked Smile - J.Cole
4. One of Those Nights ft The Weeknd - Juicy J
5. Work - Iggy Azalea