Midwestern Thread

A Very Vintage Vibe

2013-08-28T18:16:00.002-07:00

Dress (worn with tank underneath): Anthropologie

Heels: Target

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

A retro curl + a vintage cut dress = perfect femininity. I picture my both of my grandma's wearing something similar in the 40's, when they were in their 20's.

When I was in high school, two of my best girlfriends and I would sing trio songs. One of the first we ever learned was Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy by the Andrews Sisters. I can remember sitting in my room, crowded around my boom box, listening to the recording and trying to pick out the harmonies. We were actually pretty good - we sang for our high school talent shows, were cast in community theatre productions together, and even won a local singing contest.

Music has always been such a huge part of my life. Some of my best memories and best friendships have stemmed from music, in some way. It has a unique way of connecting people, and connecting people to certain times or places in their lives. Music makes my life special.

Rock Star

2013-08-23T18:08:00.001-07:00

T-shirt: Work

Pants: Derek Lam for Kohl's

Shoes: Payless

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

I felt kinda punk rock in this outfit. New red hair (complete with a big poof), printed pants, and a graphic tee. Perfect for a Friday.

Graphic tee's were my jam back when I was in middle school, which about 10 years ago now. My favorites (that I remember) included a black Pirates of the Caribbean shirt featuring Johnny Depp and a Led Zeppelin album cover tee, both of which came from Hot Topic. Obviously, I was a total rock star. I also distinctly remember calling the local radio station multiple times to request Swing Swing by the All American Rejects around this time period. So, here's the music video, for 13 year-old me:

Red - A World About to Dawn

2013-08-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Target

Tank: T.J. Maxx

Leggins: Sears

Shoes: Payless

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

Earrings: H&M

TA-DA! How do you like my new color? It was a spur of the moment decision, but I like how it turned out!

I was talked into doing it by two of the girls at work, Sami and Liz. They both recently graduated from Amber's and were back taking a cutting class today. They had some extra time, so they volunteered to help me in this adventure. (They're both super talented, and I totally trusted them. They did a great job!) We use Davines at Amber's, and since I was too shy to try a permanent color, we decided the Finest Pigments line was the best choice. Finest Pigments do not contain ammonia, so the color will wash out in a couple weeks.

I've done this to my hair before (out of a box), but this was my first time putting any sort of high-end color on it. It was fun! I'm interested to see how fast it will fade and it will look like over the course of the next few weeks.

So, in honor of my new red-ish hue and my coordinating outfit, here is a song - NERD ALERT - from my favorite musical, that matches oh so well:

Yellow Like The Sunshine

2013-08-21T16:12:00.001-07:00

Top: maurices

Skirt & Bracelet: Target

Shoes: Macy's

Earrings: Kohl's

Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

This is my adorable car. I've always dreamed of having one, ever since I was a little girl. I love everything about it - it just makes me happy! I am so lucky to have found it. It's my little bit of sunshine!

Triple P (Purple Printed Pants)

2013-08-20T18:34:00.003-07:00

Tank & Jacket: maurices

Pants: Kohl's

Shoes: Target

Necklace: A Gift

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

Purple reminds me of my mom. Soft, and soothing, and sweet. I don't wear purple often, but when I do, I always think of her.

Isn't it strange how we associate things or scents or sounds with feelings? It's strange, but incredible, and I like that very much.

Here's one of my favorite "purple" songs. Seems appropriate for this post, and this time of year.

Super Sale Magic Pants

2013-08-07T13:51:00.002-07:00

Sweater: ModCloth

Pants: Derek Lam for Kohl's

Flats: Payless

Bracelet: Target

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

These pants were an incredible buy. I found them at Kohl's, buried deep in the overstuffed sale racks, for $5.40. They were $54.00 originally. That's a 90% savings!! Can you believe it? At that price, even if they didn't fit I would still buy them. Plus, I can wear them with a bunch of different colors, and use them for work or play. I think they're magic.

Sole Reflections

2013-08-06T18:10:00.005-07:00

Skirt: maurices

Jacket: Rock & Republic for Kohl's

Heels & Tshirt: Target

A haiku dedicated to these heels:

Shiny shoes, adorn

too high - ouch! my feet hurt me.

take pity, poor feet.

It 'Seam'ed Like A Good Idea

2013-07-23T17:35:00.001-07:00

T-Shirt & Blazer: Target

Pants: Urban Outfitters

Sandals: maurices

Sunglasses: RayBan "Clubmaster"

This outfit was worn a few weeks ago, but I never had the chance to post it to the blog. That day was the sole occasion that I wore these pants. Since, I have washed them, and upon pulling them out of the machine, came across a hole along the seam in the butt. Curses!

I'm not much of a seamstress, (I don't even own a needle and thread to fix the pants) but I'd like to think I've watched enough Project Runway to have some knowledge rub off on me. Plus, I took Home Ec in middle school, where I sewed letter pillows that spelled my name. In flame fabric. Same principle, right?

Geekin Out

2013-07-19T17:21:00.000-07:00

Top & Bobby Pins: ModCloth

Pants: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's

Wedges: Carlos Santana

Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

I love learning something new. Today I found this post on Boardwalks & Boulevards, which complies a list of totally free photoshop brushes! I had never really used them before, so I was super excited to put my new knowledge to the test. (See picture 4). Pretty nifty, right? I foresee some brush fun in my future...does that make me a geek? Not according to Portlandia.

Lonely Purple

2013-07-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

Top: H&M

Skirt: Plato's Closet (Originally H&M)

Heels: Target

This outfit make me feel quite ladylike. The color palette is feminine and the heels are nice and petite compared to the wedges I normally wear. The skirt is made just right. The pleats are there to give you volume, and the thick band does it's job of cinching you in to create a nice waistline. I can't believe I found it for so cheap!

Also, this skirt is the only purple item I have in my closet. Isn't that strange?

Ahoy!

2013-07-17T17:54:00.001-07:00

Dress: GAP
Shoes: Michael Kors
Earrings: Target
Belt: My mom's

Well, it's hot here. So hot, in fact, that the only logical item of clothing to wear (other than a bathing suit) is a dress. I've worn this one multiple times, but this is the first time it's made its way over to the blog. Structured and simple, with a nautical feel, it's appropriate for most situations. Plus I like the sleeve length and it has pockets. Functionality is so important - if it were up to me, every article of clothing would have a useable pocket. How annoying it is when you have nowhere to put your phone, or your keys? Don't even get me started on faux pockets...those are just mean.

P.S. I hate how thin stripes like these look in pictures. All I can see are wiggly, dancing, distracting lines that hurt my eyes. It's like one of those horrible moving illusions, but in clothing form. Blech.

Cappuccino Crop

2013-07-16T16:21:00.004-07:00

Top: Sears

Maxi & Sandals: maurices

Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

Last night my girlfriends and I were discussing our love/hate relationship with crop tops. Naturally, the first thing I gravitate to this morning is my own, so I decided to try to remix it in a work appropriate way. This meant no bare skin, so I covered up with a tank and a high waisted skirt. Not bad!

I think it is important to challenge yourself to think in a different way. I like to this through my clothing, since I feel like it is easy to get stuck in a uniform, this goes with that, kind of routine. Remixing is like a form of brain training! In fact, I've been considering trying a 30 day remix, like this one from Kendi Everyday. Interesting, no?

Floral Camo

2013-07-12T18:00:00.004-07:00

Top: maurices

Pants: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Wedges: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

I declare this as my first intentional monochromatic look! I'm kind of surprised at how well the floral patterns mesh, especially because I hardly spent any time at all putting this outfit together this morning. Some things are meant to be, I suppose.

I've only truly embraced wearing whatever I want without fear of judgement within these past couple months. Perhaps stemming from a mixture of newfound maturity and confidence, (and a lack of time to plan) the thought "will someone think this is too much?" never really crosses my mind. I like that. It's way less pressure on myself, and I think it allows for more creativity. Clothing is one of my favorite self-expressions, and I think I'm finally figuring out how to do that in the right way for who I am.

Chic Sneaks

2013-07-10T17:49:00.004-07:00

Blazer: Urban Outfitters

Tee: Victoria's Secret PINK

Jeans: Big Star

Shoes: TJ Maxx

Sunglasses: Claire's

I love it when I find items from two different places go together perfectly - like this jacket and shoe combo! I had to put them together. I like the vibe of this outfit - it's casual and trendy, but serious enough for my office. The shoes are sneaky too (no pun intended); like I could run in them, but they're actually heels, which is awesome.

Lovely Lace

2013-07-09T16:43:00.000-07:00

Dress: Target

Shoes: maurices

Sunglasses: Ray Ban "Clubmaster"

I absolutely love this dress! The simplicity and color makes it an option for all seasons and it can be dressed up or down, which means it's a super versatile piece. Perhaps the perfect LBD?

However, I will offer a word of caution to any buyer of a lace dress - it will get caught on EVERYTHING. Your bracelet, your shoes, your chair, your desk, your stove...I'm surprised I haven't ripped through it yet!

Braid Me, Baby

2013-06-27T16:09:00.002-07:00

Blazer: GAP Outlet

Pants: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's

Wedges: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Earrings: Target

Necklace: Tiffany & Co

Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

Working at a beauty school, I am constantly surrounded by people who have incredible hair and can do incredible things with hair. I mean, these people are talented! So, in an attempt to break out of my usual routine, I decided to try a new braiding technique.

How do you like it? Not too special in the front, but BAM! there's a surprise in the back! I followed this tutorial from Ashley of The Shine Project, but added a twisted braid bun instead of wearing it down. Ashley makes the braid looks super gorgeous on her thick hair, so you should check it out too.

I'm certainly no cosmetologist, but I'm doing the best I can do learn more about the industry and my own hair. Did you know that conditioner works best if your hair has been towel-squeezed first? Me either! Just because I'm no longer in school doesn't mean I'm no longer a student - there is so much more to learn and so many people to learn from.

Liar, Liar

2013-06-25T15:49:00.001-07:00

Tank: TJMaxx

Skirt: Forever 21

Jacket: Rock & Republic for Kohl's

Heels: Target

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

Let me start out by saying - I LOVE this outfit! I felt pretty and comfortable because all the pieces are stretchy cotton. The structure and panels in the tank combined with the faux leather detail make it a perfect transition piece from day to night.

I must admit, though, that these shoes are a complete lie. I only wore them for outfit pictures - they're just too high to wear for a whole work day!

Noir Rétro

2013-06-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

Cardigan: Express

Tank: maurices

Pants: Forever21

Flats: Payless

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

I like the retro feel of this outfit. Plus, I love neutrals. Sont très simple.

Stretchy Libre

2013-06-20T15:18:00.001-07:00

Tank & Jacket: GAP

Skirt: Target

Wedges: Michael Kors

I highly recommend immediately getting in your car, driving to Target, and buying every single one of these skirts...seriously, I love it! The chevron print is cute, the panels hug your curves, and the built-in shaper keeps everything in check. Plus, it's totally stretchy. Stretchy is the equivalent of sweatpants, and feeling like Nacho Libre all day long.

Logo A Go-Go!

2013-06-19T16:54:00.003-07:00

Jacket: maurices

Shirt: Work!

Jeans: maurices

Wedges: JCPenney

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

Working in a casual environment is fantastic, because on mornings when you're running late, or don't have time to stand in front of your closet willing an outfit to appear, a simple t-shirt and jeans will suffice. Throw on a jacket & some heels, and run out the door!

Also, this t-shirt features the logo for Amber's Beauty School, which is where I work...check us out on Facebook , Twitter & Pinterest!

1 Car, 2 Car, Red Car, Blue Car

2013-06-14T15:48:00.001-07:00

Dress: Urban Outfitters

Belt: Target

Wedges: Michael Kors

Sunglasses: Rayban "Clubmaster"

I have a love/hate relationship with this dress. The print is adorable (who doesn't love vintage cars?) and I love the ascot/bow tie around the collar, but I HATE the material. It's super hot and unforgiving - no stretch whatsoever - and it isn't quite the right fit. That's why I had to do a little DIY action - put on a belt to cinch in the waist, and add a bodycon skirt for length, because there is no way that bottom button was staying shut. I guess that's the price you pay for ordering online. Either way, it's nice to have something different in your closet I suppose.

Olive Exhaustion

2013-06-13T18:08:00.001-07:00

Cardigan: Target

Blouse: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's

Skirt: GAP

Wedges: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Jewels: Gifts

Man, I look tired in these photos. Probably because I am. I had one of those days when I got home from work and when I looked in the mirror, I was like, WHOA...have I looked like this all day?

Do you know what I mean?

Anyway, it was nice to wrap up in a comfy cozy cardi earlier while I was at work. Ugly olive drab is one of my favorite colors and I like how it pairs with the navy and peach tones in this ensemble.

Dreamy Creamsicle

2013-06-11T16:29:00.004-07:00

Tank & Pants: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's

Cardigan: Target

Wedges: Vera Wang for Kohl's

Earrings: Betsey Johnson

Bracelet: GAP

This outfit reminds me of a tasty summer treat, like a creamsicle! I love the bright pants paired with neutrals - dreamy!

I spent way too long re-working some aspects of my blog, so now my brain is the equivalent of a creamsicle on a hot summer day - melted. So, I better sign off before I turn into a giant, sticky puddle! Goodnight!

(re)Fresh

2013-06-10T15:55:00.003-07:00

Dress: maurices Jacket: Plato's Closet - originally Charlotte Russe Wedges: Vera Wang for Kohl's Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters
This backdrop was a perfect way to describe my Saturday - I had just gotten my hair cut and styled, I was wearing a bright & happy outfit with killer heels, and I was feelin - you guessed it - FRESH.
Fresher than spearmint...fresher than Will Smith...fresher than, well...you get the point. Hope your weekend was as lovely as mine and you found time to refresh.
*This cool graffiti backdrop belongs to Refresh Muncie, a unique furniture & home decor shop. Check out their Facebook page here!

Sweet & Simple

2013-06-07T16:22:00.001-07:00

Sweater: Target Slacks: GAP Heels: Target Bracelet: Swarvoski
TGIF...TGIF...TGIF...Here's a little photoshop fun for this Friday evening!