Today I'm Wearing....

Today (May 8th, 2009) I'm Wearing...

2010-05-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night Sushi Dinner with friends :)

Did some day shopping today with my girls Chelsie and Emily and made two successful purchases at Forever 21. I opted to wear my new dress out to dinner. It was a little chilly out but (Pshawh) when has that ever stopped me :P

This Tye-Dye Zipper T-back dress was only $19.80 and these Linen shorts were only $15.80 and also came in khaki!

I'm sort of a fan of the new Tye-dye trend that's becoming huge this Spring and this pattern was so versatile that it could easily see it transitioning from office (picture it...with a crisp cardigan and a sassy pair of flats) to cocktail hour ( toss on a pair of nude heels and a blazer and voila!).

Shorts are an idea I am acclimating myself slowly to- I had made a previous vow to myself in years past that during the warm Spring/Summer months, I would enforce skirts and sundresses wholeheartedly. Yet, I have come to notice that my style has been changing in these past few months and that perhaps I was too hasty in dismissing shorts altogether. Plus, although them seem its-bitsy in the photo, they are surprisingly modest and fall at the perfect place without being too tight and or too short. I see endless possibilities before me.... ;)

The Ensemble:

Black & White Tye-Dye Zipper T-Back Dress (Forever 21...$19.80)
Cerulean Blue Skimmer Flats (Joyce Leslie...$15)
Gold Cuff Neck Choker (Goodwill Thrift Shop...$4)
3/4 Length Jacket (Mr. Price in South Africa...less than $10 American)

Fashion Fix Friday- From Strangled to Untangled

2010-05-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

Now, if you're an accessory junkie like I am, then your jewelry collection might look something like this.

I have often been hounded by this mess of mangled rings, strings, necklaces and bracelets, until I could take it no longer. Something had to be done!

Yet, for those who reside in an apartment or just for those of you who live in Manhattan, then you fully understand that space can be incredibly limited and most jewelry organizers tend to be bulky, fan out, and often take up a considerable amount of surface space and or storage.

So, I pondered this quandary for a spell until I came up with a simple yet satisfying solution. I went to my local hardware store and purchased some basic adhesive hooks to adhere to my bedroom walls. Not only are all my necklaces now completely organized and devoid of those pesky and unsightly tangles, but they are displayed in a way that lets me seek out exactly what I'm looking for without having to rifle through a bunch of other pieces to get to it :) It can actually double as wall art too!

The best part is that they come in a variety of styles, from plastic to clear to even a polished silver that will work with anyone's budget and decor. Simple and easy!

Weekly Likes and Dislikes in Fashion

2010-05-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

Like of the Week: The Uniform Project

This 365 day project followed Sheena Matheiken, a woman who vowed to to wear a classic LBD all year long in order to raise money and awareness for the Akanksha Foundation, a campaign to better advance education within her native home of India, as well as promoting "sustainable fashion".

Sheena started out with 7 black identical dresses and with a pinch of creativity and a drive for her cause, she took a concept and an idea and made it into a one-woman revolution in fashion.

You can follow her year-long triumph by going to www.theuniformproject.com where you can learn more and even donate.

Up to date Sheena and the Uniform Project have raised a total of $80,523 dollars and as a result now there are 223 lucky kids who are receiving school uniforms and other school-based expenses within Indian slums to better further their education. You can even see all her daily fashions on her website. Most of her accessories were picked from local NYC thrift shops and flea markets and many items were even donated. Just goes to show what one woman with a vision and a Little Black Dress can achieve ;)

Dislike of the Week: Paperself Eyelashes

Popular fashion website Refinery 29 is already raving about this new trend in lash eye-wear but I have to say I'm not among the the masses that will embrace this trend anytime soon. (Honestly, as if false lashes aren't challenging enough!)

These paper lashes, which can be purchased at www.LunaandCurious.blogspot.com, are said to be "inspired by the traditional craft of Chinese paper cutting", and come in a variety of designs from horses to peach blossoms.

I personally find this look, overall and in one word, frightening. Not only does it look unnatural, but I cannot help but wonder if the paper itself will get tangled up in the natural lashes or even restrict the line of vision. Think about it, how distracting must it be to have scraps of paper flapping against your eyelids everytime you blink?!

Now I can see this look working on Lady Gaga, and I can even tolerate the idea of it on Halloween to be sure, but in an everyday (or even night) setting, this look has no business rearing it's shocking head...or, um... lashes. What do you think, readers?

Today (May 4th, 2009) I'm Wearing...

2010-05-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Tuesday and it's an absolutely gorgeous day in the Big Apple!!! :D

I was feeling a tad lady-like so I opted for soft, flowy fabrics and lines. I have fallen head over heels for this pleated knee-length skirt. In all honesty I have been on a silent search for something delicate and demure and when I laid eyes on this piece, I knew I had met my match :) - but the absolute best part of it was the fact that we met at the Goodwill and this divine item was mine for the low, low bargain price of $6 (sigh) - pure music to me ears!!!

I was also trying to break in my brand new pair of brown wedge sandals that I picked up at the Target in TX this past weekend when I was visiting family. I Love, Love, Love them with a capital "L"... I have a feeling this will be the summer of espadrilles and wedges for me. The taller the better! I am only 5'2" after all, and don't us short girls deserve the chance to tower above the rest every once in a while ;)

The Ensemble:

Black Cami Tank Top (Forever 21...$2.50)
Black Pleated Knee-Length Skirt (Goodwill Thrift Store on 23rd St. btw 2nd & 3rd Ave...$6)
Black Two-Prong Braided Belt with Stud Detailing (Forever 21....$7.80)
Brown Sling-Back Wedge Sandals (Target in TX...$24.99)
Blue Star Necklace (Tiffany's...Amaaaazing Birthday gift from my awesome 'rents)
Sunglasses (Isaac Mizrahi-from the Cosmetics Market in midtown...like $2 or $3...can't beat that!)

April Showers Bring New Rain Boots...

2010-03-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry readers, I took a mini writing vacay to regroup and plot out my next moves for 'Today I'm Wearing' and since Spring was approaching, I decided that it would be a good idea to do a piece on galoshes, wellies, rain boots and all the like to celebrate the coming of warmer weather, flowers blooming and all the other magical Spring-like occurances :)

I've been in search of the perfect rain boots (especially considering rain is such a prominent player of late in good old NYC ) in a variety of styles with prices that won't break the bank! I tried to find the cutest comparisons at the boldest and best prices ever, so I hope you enjoy them, readers!!!

I have to say that, hands down, I was most impressed with Target. Their selection and prices are some of the best around and a lot of their boots run for only $20!!! Whether your mood is classic, flashy, sassy or what have you- there's a good chance there is something for everyone here! (I'm loving the NYC 42nd Street-inspired pair on the bottom left too!)

(Clockwise from top right: Tattoo Roses Rain Boots $20; Nova Plaid Rain Boots $20; Capelli New York Graffiti Rain Boots $20; Florets Gradual-Fade Rain Boots $24.99)

These boots are from Kohl's are also pretty easy on the wallet, with a cluster of fun palettes to pick from.

(Clockwise from top right: Unionbay Splash Rain Boots in green solid $29.99; Totes Jackie Rain Boots in leopard print $39.99; Totes Cammie Rain Boots in mosaic print $39.99)

This is the "I'm-willing-to-spend-a-bit-more-on-comfort-and-style" section. Recently my good friend, Chelsie, just got her very first pair of Hunter boots and she has been raving about the quality and fit of them.They are a bit on the pricier side of life but they are certainly an investment piece for the inner fashionista.

(Starting from lower left and moving up and across: Hunter Lady N Boots in beige $140; Hunter Gloss Rain Boots in Teal $115; Hunter Metallic Silver Rain Boots $115)

With these fun fresh boots, you'll be wishing for a rainy day to show off your fancy new footwear!!! :D

Fashion Fix Friday - Put Your Pliers to the Wires

2010-03-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, so how many time have you been rocking out your favorite necklace or pair of dangling earrings when... POOF...it breaks. You promise yourself that you'll take it to be repaired but alas, it may sit for many months in your jewelry drawer, only to eventually be forgotten.

Why resign yourself to saying good-bye forever to your cherished pieces?!?! Just invest in a pair of needle nose pliers. Trust me- these little babies can save your accessory life! I swear by them and often keep them lying in my jewelry box for just these unfortunate accessory mishaps.

Simply connect the broken link and apply pressure to close it up! The great thing is that one pair of pliers won't set you back like re-buying some of your prized pieces or have a jeweler fix it at a costly price - and it's something that many people already have in their homes!

Plus, for those extra thin wispy chains that seem impossible to fix, there is now a ton of variety when it comes to finding even the most narrow of pliers for the job. You'll never have throw away perfectly good bracelets, necklaces, or earrings again :)

And if you're feeling EXTRA creative, why not take a bunch of your broken necklaces and knot and connect them together for a completely new look altogether! It's fun, fashionable and so incredibly unique that no one else will be able to get over the fact that you made it yourself with a typical tool box instrument ;) That can be your little secret!

HAPPY FRIDAY ALL!!!!!!!!

Today (March 10th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-03-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

So it's that odd transition time in NYC where it's getting warmer and the sun is shining but it's still too cold to toss aside the winter jackets, and so dressing is quite the everyday conundrum. I feel like I'm ready to deshroud myself of the chunky layers and heavy daunting winter coats...Spring we neeeeeeeeeed you! Come quick!

I was going out for drinks this evening at the Blue Owl- so loungy chic, I love it! I wanted to sip cocktails in something casual yet urban. I always seem to layer this crocheted tank tunic but the idea of pairing it with just a simple white camisole just felt sort of fitting since the sudden burst of warmth hit NYC these past few days.

Next I added this slouchy cream open cardi- I like it because it has the same effect as a blazer but with a more casual/ adaptable feel. The belt sort of tied the overall colors together and broke it up in the middle to create a line of vision. This combo with some faded skinny denim jeans and just a mint of a hint of sparkle with these uber-fantastic heels!!!!...now THIS has cocktail hour all over it :D

I went with a neutral palette makeup-wise. Raspberry glossed lips and lots of mascara for that wide-eyed doe look. I tossed on these sunglasses right before I was about to head out the door (I normally tend to take my pics just as I head out).

I remember I used to bartend just after college and when I had short hair many of my co-workers used to call me Trinity (from the Matrix), I certainly don't flatter myself but I do think that this is the first pic I've ever seen of myself where I could maaaaaybe see a resemblance...

...incredibly slight I would say...

God I love these silver heels...

Denim Skinny Jeans (Forever 21...$12.50)
White Camisole TankTop (Forever 21...$2.50)
Tan Crochetted Knit Tunic Tank (Goodwill)
Red Double-Loop Belt (Thrifted...$1 p/ lb.)
Silver Heels (Fair Layla I believe...they were a gift, but I checked them online and they range around $200!!!)
Sunnies (Cosmetics Market...$2...Isaac Mizrahi orig. $20)
Cream Open Cardigan (Thrifted...about $7)

'Gen Art Fashion Show & Party' article up and running on Whiskey Dregs Magazine!!!!

2010-03-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

Check out my latest article posted on the Whiskey Dregs Magazine for the Gen Art New Garde Fashion Show and Party I attended last month during Fashion Week!!!!!!

http://thewhiskeydregs.com/2010/03/11/gen-art-new-garde-fashion-show/

Weekly Likes/Dislikes in Fashion

2010-03-06T06:37:00.000-08:00

Like of the Week: Rent the Runway

First off, I want to thank lovely reader, Chelsea for this weeks 'Like of the Week'! She sent me the link to the fabulously awesome site: http://www.renttherunway.com/

Now how amazing is this?!?! You can literally shop online and browse through dozens of well-known designers for that perfect dress from Herve Leger to Badgley Mischka to Nicole Miller. Simply choose your dress and when you would like for it to be delivered and RTR will send you your order in two sizes to ensure the perfect fit! When you're done you can slip it into the pre-paid package and send it right back. How simple is that?!

Basically, this company came into fruition as the brainchild of co-founders Jennifer Hyman and Jennifer Carter Fleiss when Hyman's sister couldn't figure out what to wear to a wedding. She wanted to wear something that was elegant and stylish and it was this conundrum that would frame the idea of 'Rent the Runway' for these two aspiring Business majors. The rest is history! Now women everywhere can benefit and wear designer clothing for a fraction of the price!

Check it out! Thanks Chelsea :D

Dislike of the Week: Girls who don't know how to dress for their body...

I warn you, this isn't pretty...

When you look in the mirror, inwardly you must have some idea of how people might percieve you. If you don't then I'm sorry society has failed you. I just find it somewhat tragic when ladies can't figure out the proper way to dress for their body type. I captured this look last Saturday night when I was at Angels & Kings with some friends. I don't have specific words for this. I will say that it's winter here and freezing out.

Unsurprisingly, this poor girl looked uncomfortable the whole entire night we saw her and was consistently pulling down and shifting her sweater~~dress~~.

All in all, not a cute look. In fact, kind of awkward for the entire bar.

There's a way to give a little sexy without giving it all away. Clearly this was never expressed to this lovely girl. Let's just say, if you're going to dare to wear this either be super confident or super toned.

Fashion Fix Fridays- From UGH! to UGG's!

2010-03-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

No one can deny that this past winter has been a doosey, and if you're like me (and you have to trek through the snow) then your boots have probably taken a beating. I have been relying on my faithful Uggs to get me through the slush and sleet (water-protected of course), but no matter how much you prepare, sometimes those inevitable salt/snow stains rear their ugly heads.

Well, I scoured the internet to find a way to eliminate these pesky stains and so far this combo has proved to be the winning way to beat those sodium stains to a pulp!

All you need is a soft brush ( I actually used a soft toothbrush), warm water and a little bit of regular dish detergent :)

First, simply brush away any debris on the area and then mix the water and detergent.
Next, dab this solution on the stained area (I used an old washcloth for this step) but be sure NOT to rub down or press too hard on the fabric. Gently work it through the salt.
Now, just let them air dry naturally and voila- if they are a bit matted, simply brush until they look good as new :)

Note: For extremely unruly stains you might have to repeat these steps a few times to get results. Be patient - it's better then throwing away a perfectly good pair of Uggs!

Weekend Recap (Feb. 27th-19th) - waaaay overdure- sorry readers! :D

2010-03-05T07:46:00.000-08:00

Friday night....

me in a goofy mood doing my impression of all those celebs who send twitter pics out into the world (Kim Kardashian & Jessica Simpson much)...

I must have been reading a lot of Perez today...

Anyway, this was the weekend of the inevitable NYC snow storm. Yes, we've been having a lot of them lately. I'm sure many of you can commiserate with me. Let's just say I'm eagerly awaiting the Spring.

Considering the weather was so bleak I was going to spend a Friday night in when I got a call to meet up with some friends for dinner and drinks in the east village. It was the perfect excuse to create a new look for this lattice sweater top that I refound in the back of my closet recently :)

I love it to bits but I have to admit it had been boring me a bit lately. I always seem to pair it with the same things so I decided that this weekend I would give it a little mini makeover and find a way to incorporate this very sweater into two completely different looks.

On Friday I wanted something modern but edgy so I paired the top with my plum purple skinny jeans, knee-high boots and this funky gold CK belt that I bought on super-sale for about $3.50. The bold color of the denim and the chunky gold of the belt toughens up the overall look.

Black Diamond Lattice Turtleneck Sweater
Purple Skinny Jeans (Marhsalls...$19.99)
Black Knee-High Boots (Thrifted...$1)
Gold Calvin Klein Belt (Steinmart...$3.50...after Xmas sale)
Issiac Mizrahi Sunglasses (The Cosmetics Market...$2 marked down from $20!)

Now on Saturday...

...I opted for a bit of a more demure look. It's a bit of a modern twist on the school girl look. It was when I placed the headband on that I found myself dangerously close to Blaire Waldorf territory. I also wanted to bust out my thigh-highs since they're about to come back in style. Thigh-highs always remind me of Cher and Dionne from the movie 'Clueless' - talk about pulling a look off with panache!

Black Diamond Lattice Turtleneck Sweater
Tweed Mini Skirt (Goodwill...$10...originally from Bebe!)
Black Opaque Tights (Target)
Black Knee-High Boots (Thrifted...$1)
Gray Thigh-High Socks (I forget, couldn't have been more than $6-$8...probably from Strawberry or H&M)
Black Tapestry Headband (Joyce Leslie...$4.50)

Overall I think my little experiment opened my eyes a bit in helping me to reinvent a few new looks to add to my wardrobe. Creating is after all the core of fashion :)

Fashion Fix Friday- From Tired to Wired

2010-02-26T11:08:00.000-08:00

So if you're like me, you're human and prone to accidentally sleeping in past your regularly scheduled alarm. We've all been there - your eyes fall on the clock, it processes that you're nowhere near where you should be getting ready-wise and a quick look in the mirror quickly confirms just that!

Don't fret- here are some handy-dandy tools to help you look wide-eyed, bushy-tailed and fabulously flawless...even if you only have a few minutes to fix your face :)

First off, I like to start with a clean palette. I'm all about Clean & Clear's Morning Burst Scrub! It always seems to rejuvenate and awaken my tired face with its magical little scrubbing citrus beads and the scent is incredibly invigorating! Next, to wake up weary eyes I normally keep two metal tablespoons in my freezer so that when I need a quick zap of life I can take them out in a jiffy and place them on my eyelids to decrease that puffy look so often carried over from sleeping in ;) (If you have the time, you can place them in your freezer for about 10 minutes for the same effect).

After this, I like to swipe white eyeliner in the inner rims of my lower eyelids. Make-up artists swear by this trick and it does actually help. N.Y.C. cosmetics actually has a great white liner for only $.99 - you can't beat that!

After, I like to place a pearly-pinkish iridescent eyeshadow over my lids and in the inner corners of my eyes to create a little bit of sparkle. Swipe on a coat of mascara and you're peepers will be bright as the sun and you can take on your day with confidence!

Happy Friday Everyone!!!! :D

Recent Fashion Obsession: The Christian Siriano for Payless Coast Printed Satin Pump

2010-02-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

Now as many of you know already, I have a love affair with the color blue! Cobalt, cerulean, cyan, you name it, chances are I'll love it...and as soon as I spotted these stunning pumps from the Christian Siriano line for Payless, I knew I had fallen hard. The originals, (shown on the left) worn during the Christian Siriano Spring 2010 Runway show, have undergone a slightly less art deco makeover yet they still manage to convey those brilliant shades of aqua-marine blue to a "t". Not to mention the smaller platform and less awkward arc of the heel makes them a bit more user-friendly when it comes to navigating in the real world.

Payless even offers another version in a a fiery burnt sienna color (which I'm also surprisingly fond of!) if blue isn't your thing. They are truly on my covet list - to check them out stop by Payless or click this link below: http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?productId=66644&catId=cat10088&lotId=075785&subCatId=cat10243&selectedSegment=Adult

Weekly Likes/Dislikes in Fashion

2010-02-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

Like of the Week: La Roux's visual new wave music video for the song, 'Bulletproof'.

Not only did I fall for this song the moment I heard its funky electronic beats and catchy chorus line, but there's just something so fabulously kitschy about this whole graphic 80's revival theme. Throughout the three minutes and thirty-three seconds of this video, it's hard not to be transported into this bright futuristic world of geometric shapes and bold color palettes (that bare a striking resemblance to the interior of the MOMA, in my opinion).

Lead singer, Elly Jackson, pays tribute to the era of contoured blush, neon eye-makeup and perfectly coiffed hair, all the while decked out in high tops, graphic prints and structured jackets in quasi-clashing color combos that rival MIA's quirky oddball fashion.

It's fun, fresh and fabulous. So perk up your Wednesday with a dose of La Roux and see what I mean... enjoy!

See the video for yourself by clicking here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUsbpmQ9-mc

Dislike of the Week: The Kardashian Line for Bebe

I have to admit that I was actually really excited at the thought of the Kardashians trio and Bebe collaborating together to create a fashion-forward line despite naysayers (or more specifically, my idol, Tim Gunn) jabbing the collection and claiming the Kardashians have an "absence of taste".

Well, I have to admit, after checking it out for myself, Tim was right, aside from the lapse in style there was a very visible absence of creativity. Everything that came down the runway seemed redundant and copied.

Leather-style pants and shorts, cobalt blue sheaths with cropped jackets, one-shoulder dresses in eye-popping colors and Gladiator sandals?

This is truly a case of "been there/done that" in the fashion world and I was bitterly disappointed in the fact that both teams couldn't come up with something fresher and more unique. Not to say it a complete disaster but it just seems that a lot of the looks worn garnered very little extra oomph to get excited over.

For what many of these items cost I'm convinced you can find their knock-off counterparts at the nearest Forever 21.

To see what I'm talking about here is a link from Coutorture.com below:

www.coutorture.com/New-York-Fashion-Week-BebeKardashian-Fall-2010-7429600

Weekend Recap (Feb. 19th-21st, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-22T16:24:00.000-08:00

Why is it that four day work weeks always seem longer than regular work weeks? Perhaps it's because you have to jam an extra day of work into the mix. I must say, I was ready to get this weekend started!

Friday night and I went with my AA pleather leggings, ankle boots and fleece motorcycle vest. It was a great night out :) Let's just say I might have busted a move or two when 'Rude Boy' came on by Rihanna....

Cream/Green Abstract Tee (Forever 21...$14)
Black Fleece Motorcycle Vest (Forever 21...$12 on sale)
Black Cracked American Apparell (AA...$40)
Purple Hair Extensions (Hot Topic...$4.99)
Black Ankle Boots (Strawberry...$30)
Purple Leather Coach Bag (Coach Sample Sale...$30)

This was my Saturday brunch look. I actually ended up cutting this gorgeous cobalt blue tank top on the fly. I bought it sometime last summer and although I loooove the color and the low scoop neck, the cut of it was a bit odd cut. It was always just a little too short to wear as a dress and a bit too long to wear as a top. With it coming down to my knees it often ended up swallowing my frame. However, all it took to fix was just a quick snip of the shears :) Why didn't I think to do this sooner. Now it's the perfect length and the fabric falls elegantly.

Cobalt Blue Tunic (Remixed by yours truly...De-Janiero...$22)
Gray Skinny Jeans (Levi's)
Black Knee-High Boots (Thanks Mom...$1)
Black & White Tank Top (H&M...$4)
Blue/White Pinstripe Jacket (Originally from Urban...bought for $7 marked down from $70)

Next up is my Saturday 'Girls Night Out' ensemble...

Black/Tan Horizontal Stripe Dress (H&M...$9.95)
Black Opaque Tights (Target...$9 for 3 pairs)
Black Crocheted Vest (Rave Closeout Sale...$4.99)
Burgundy Heels (Payless)

We ended up at Angels & Kings again...I mean, obvi...;)

Sunday was intentionally supposed to be one of those lazy days meant for running errands and sleeping in but we were then invited to a lovely Birthday brunch for a dear friend and we all know that brunch is my absolute weakness ;) Of course we didn't stop there...this pic was taken of me at Son Cubano in meat-packing. I wore this gray zip-up slim-fitting dress and the more I wear it, the more I fall in love with it's adaptable charisma. It was perfect for the day and is a perfect balance of casual chic.

All in all, it was a rockstar weekend...I can't WAIT until Friday rolls around again.

Gray Zipper Dress (Strawberry...$20)
Black Knee-High Boots (Thrifted and grifted...$1)
Black Opaque Tights (Target)
"Brunette Necklace" (Forever 21...$6)

Fashion Fix Fridays

2010-02-19T15:57:00.000-08:00

So I was talking to my good friend, Kara, who was feeling a little bit disgruntled because her absolute favorite pair of earrings were infecting her ears. Now, I'm no stranger to suffering for fashion's sake, but if you can avoid it then why not take advantage?

That's why I've decided to include a section for those little fashion fixes that can stump even the most worldly of fashionistas in their tracks. I hope these little pearls of wisdom will help you as they have helped me in the past. Some of these tips I've read, some were given to me by very dear friends and some are based on my own personal trial and error...and now I'm letting all my favorite readers in on these itty bitty secrets that can save you from fashion flaws and fails :)

The Sitch: Now back to the earring conundrum: with today's earrings often made from materials that don't mesh with our delicate skin, it's common for most girls to have a negative reaction to silver, nickel, stainless steel, etc. When times like this arise there's no need to live in agony or toss you're beloved pair...

The Fix: Clear nail polish! Not only does this magical liquid stop a run in your tights dead on and faster than a speeding bullet (that lil' tip was a freebie ;) but by swiping a small amount over the areas that come in contact with your skin and it will create a thin barrier of protection from infection :) Just apply and dry. No more pain or frustration!

Today (Feb. 18th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-19T07:49:00.000-08:00

Thursday. One day closer to the weekend! This has been a very hectic week full of new challenges and beginnings. Gotta keep life interesting. For some unknown reason the snow that has littered the ground from the last snowstorm is refusing to melt. Me, I'd rather say good-bye to the slush and cold altogether and send it packing until next year. Spring, where are yoooooooou! You're lovely friend, Alexis, is missing you muchly!

So I pulled these purple denim jeans from out of the back of my closet. I've had these bad boys for almost a year. I got them in TN when I was visiting my family. They were only $20 from Marshalls and they are incredibly comfortable. This opened cardi is also a rarely worn item although I love it because it instantly adds sophistication to almost any outfit, straight up! :)

year. My husband teases me about the color and calls them my "Hulk pants" because he says they're the same exact color that the Incredible Hulk wore. Boys... ;)

Bright Purple Jeans (Marshalls...$19.99)
Gray Tribal Geometric Burn-Out Tee (Forever 21...$14)
Open Cream Cardigan (Goodwill...$7)
Black Knee-High Boots (Gift from my Mom at a garage sale...$1)
Brown Wooden Beads (Street Vendor...$1)
Random shot of a brown leather couch in front of my apartment for no reason...priceless :)

Today (Feb. 15th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-16T10:33:00.000-08:00

Today I felt like dressing up a bit. I call this look 'Urban Gypsy'...

I love government Holidays that fall on the weekdays! :) It leaves you wide open to the parallel universe you're not apart of when you're working and in your "normal" routine. You've got morning news and television shows, not to mention those oh-so-random but awesome Bravo tv marathons of shows like 'Real Housewives' or 'Top Chef' to chip away at the time. I managed to get about 85% of the errands and things I wanted to get done, so I was feeling pretty accomplished. This evening I sort of took it easy. I met my good friend, Kara, for some Indian food in the East Village and as I was leaving the restaurant I saw that it had begun to snow...not quite sure how I feel about that. I blame the groundhog...

Hope everyone had a great President's Day!!!

Black Cracked Liquid Leggings (American Apparel...$40)
Cream Pleated Tunic Tank (H&M...$24)
Black Netted Sweater Tunic (One of my favorite thrift spots on 25th Street between 6th and 7th, I think...it's Express...$7)
Circular Silver Chain Belt (Thrifted...this has been with me so long, I can't even remember. I do know that it is an asset and that I'd be lost without it).
Chain Link Strand Belt (Bought in South Africa...the translation to American $'s from the rand was about $24).
Purple Circle Scarf (Target...$3.49 or something redic like that! It was on super sale...I wish I'd snagged another in black. Who doesn't love a great circle scarf?)
Silver Medallion Necklace (Gem Story...$2.99...it's sruprisingly unique and antique despite it's low price).
Green Bead Necklace (H&M...$3.50...This necklace has stood the test of time. I'm pretty sure we've been together the better half of 5 years. More than my husband ;) It's my favorite subtle way to shake up a neutral palltette instantly.
Wooden Bead Necklace (Street Vendor...$1...it's the perfect ingredient to toughening up a little summer dress at a great price).

Today (Feb.14th, 2010 - Valentine's Day!) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-14T20:49:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO ALL!!! ♥

When Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday it's a treat in itself :) It's a whole day of lazing about to celebrate love with the amazing buffer of President's Day to cushion the work week; all in all a beautiful thing.

I started off this V-Day morning by blogging a bit and watching 'Stay Alive' on Syfy (which is more in the horror genre and not so very lovey-dovey but I'm a sucker for those kinds of flicks and it was on).

After that, the husby and I went to a lovely brunch at the Sixth Ward in the LES, then headed up to the East Village Cheese Shop (home of the $1 brie) to pick up a few ingredients for our Vday 3- course dinner. Cheese and crackers followed by the Baked Chix Parm I made with a side of garlic bread. For dessert, red velvet cupcakes - my absolute fave! I somehow can always be won over by one of these delicious miniature creations under nearly an circumstance. Absolutely heavenly. I have a friend who has never tried red velvet because she is allergic to the red dye used in it to alter the color of the cake. Can you imagine :( A world with no red velvet would be slightly sad cloud...

Anyway enough of that, now onto the outfit. I bought this black and tan dress from H&M about a week ago. You really can't see in the photo but it has these sick shoulder-pads that balance out the horizontal stripes of the dress perfectly and makes it surprisingly flattering. This vest is also a recent purchase that I made yesterday at Forever 21 in Soho. At first I was slightly turned off by the fleece material in the beginning but as soon I tried it on I realized with a phenomenal addition it would make to my wardrobe, whether I simply throw over a t-shirt or want to give a dress an edgy twist. Plus, it was on sale and ended up being only $12.99 marked down from $30. I couln't afford not to get such a fantastic steal ;)

The fedora is my husband's. The pink glasses are from Forever. They've got paint splatter patterns all over them; I rarely if never wear pink but I guess I was in a bright mood that day.They're kind of obnoxious in a fun way. I think it adds a splash of color to the neutral pallette.

Also, I posted this look today on Lookbook.nu (one of my favorite fashion sites!) so check it out and see over hundreds of other trendsetting style mavens post their favorite looks.

http://lookbook.nu/look/496029-I-ll-have-the-Black-Tan

Black/Tan Horizontal Striped Mini Dress (H&M...$9.99)
Black Fleece Motorcycle Vest (Forever 21...$12.99 on sale! I love the off-beat placing of the zipper and the versitilty of the piece)
Brown Bondage Boots (My mom bought me this boots in TN, I've really started to rely on them in the last few months as that killer go-to pair of boots when I'm in a rush but want to look pulled together.
Gray Fedora (My husby's; he looks so handsome when he wears it. He got it in South Africa after I convinced him it was a not-to-missed purchase. He is now inseperable with it).
Hot Pink Splatter Sunglasses (Forever 21...$5 or $6, can't really remember...)

Today (Feb. 12th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-13T15:12:00.001-08:00

Friday night has arrived and to top it off it's Valentine's Day weekend!!! YAY :D

And for those of you who despise Valentine's Day and view it only as a commercial holiday, it's also the start of a long weekend! YAY :D (Thank you, President's Day.)

Tonight I attended a good friend's birthday party at Madame X down on Houston. It was the perfect loungy setting for a great night. Plush, Victorian couches in a living room style setting with a slightly edgy Amsterdam Bordello feel, all while the DJ spins some excellent tunes. Very posh, very fun ;)

I wanted to be sophisticate-chic with an edge. This purple draped open-back tunic always adds a slightly dramatic flair to any ensemble. Add some chunky silver jewelry and some black skinny pants and you've got an outfit that allows movement but can stand on its own. Next, add this streamlined gold button pin-stripe blazer and that's just the cherry on top of a lovely outfit :)

Purple Draped Tunic (Charlotte Russe...$17)
Black Skinny Pants (Forever 21...$16...I cannot get over how much I heart these pants. I honestly don't know how I lived before them!)
Brown Bondage Boots (Gift from TN)
Navy Pin-Strip Blazer (South Africa)
Purple Hair Extensions (Hard to see in photos...Hot Topic...$5.99)

Weekly Likes/Dislikes in Fashion

2010-02-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

Like of the Week: Gen Art New Garde Fashion Show & Party

Let it be known that even the coldest and snowiest of winter blizzards cannot stop fashion in its tracks, and I am now a testement to that! This past Wednesday night I attended the Gen Art New Garde Fashion Show with a few of my friends and had the time of my life :)

Over a thousand devoted fashionistas attended the avant-garde show and after party, dressed to the nines despite the frosty winter weather, to rub elbows with some of the fashion world's newest and existing talent. Hosted by Molly Sims, the event was a dream come true and the layout of the show itself only enhanced the overall experiences. Instead of the typical runway show the models posed and presented the clothes over the span of the party, while continuously rotating the styles. Not only did it give viewers a chance to really soak in the fashion itself, it was a fun and contemporary twist on the fashion show formula we've all come to expect.

The designers and lines that were featured at this show were
Gar-de, Nomia, Wesfeld (who were also the winners of the show's Plastic Makes it Possible Design Competition and were also Season 5 'Runway Project' contestents) and Sophomore.
Here are a few of the highlights...

Me posing with Alex and Simon Van Kempen from the Bravo show 'Real Housewives of New York' - they were soooooo lovely and such wonderful people! (What can I say...I love the show!)

Here is Kenley Collins from Season 5 of 'Project Runway' rocking this fierce purple cap-sleeved minidress (which she designed herself) and she was just as animated and spuratic in person as she was on the show....and call me crazy but I loved every bit of it :] )

I know it's hard to see here with that invasive, blaring spotlight but here are me and a few friends with Whitney Port from the MTV show 'The City'. She was gorgeous in real life with fantastic fashion sense. It was very chic meets off-beat :) Upredictable, yet compatible.

The Nomia presentation- mostly black and modern but every now and then there was an eye-catching oddity (like an armored shoulder-pad on a rusk colored minidress). Sassy & stylish at the same time.

The WesFeld Collection, fully equipped with trendy boleros with shoulder spikes and silhoulette-hugging gowns in creamy rose colored blends of taffeta and organza fabric. Alluring, whimsical and dreamy would be the words I use to best describe the style of this inventive line.

It was a fabulous night of fashion and one that I was honored to attend. It's events like these that really can bring fashion to life. Sigh...it was a magical night :)

Dislike of the Week:
The great, great loss of Alexander McQueen :(

A brilliant desinger, whose free and individualistic sense of style captivated the fashion world over.

In the saddest turn of events, famed and celebrated designer, Lee Alexander McQueen (16 March 1969 – 11 February 2010) took his life and left the fashion world stunned and saddened. His striking and imaginative designs have been worn by such celebrities as Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Drew Barrymore and Bjork, just to name a few.

May this amazingly talented artist and creator rest in peace. The world will miss your vibrant and stylistic outlook.

One on my favorite more recent McQueen designs (worn by Drew Barrymore at the 2009 Toronto Film Festival 'Whip It' Party).

Today (Feb. 6th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-07T19:50:00.000-08:00

Saturday night and we went out to support our good friend, Carlos, who was DJ'ing at Angels & Kings. Mind you, last time we partied there, met Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz :D

It was a pretty rockin' night! Great music, great friends, great vibe...amazing :) I obvi went with a rock & roll feel outfit-wise :P

Glittery heels, open- back zipper top (which I found at Joycle Leslie for an amazing $7... it's so Ke$ha!), and this kick-ass silver chain-link belt that I found in South Africa when I was there last fall. It was a fun look that gave me enough mobility to dance around during the fun songs and at the same time made me feel sexy and fun. It's a very fine balance and I think I achieved it tonight. I was a little proud of myself :)

Black Skinny Pants (Forever 21...$16)
Gray Zipper-back Top (Joyce Leslie...$7)
Chain-Link Belt (South Africa...25 Rand)
Silver Glitter Snakeskin Heels (A lovely gift...A retailed $200 pair of shoes by Faryl Robin. They fit like a dream and look even better ;) I do realize that you can barely see them now, but I swear they're killer and I will take way better pics in the future!)
Assorted Bangles and Bracelets (I went wild...I thinhk there is a turquois jelly bracelet that I got when I was in 11th grade for 60 pence when we had a school trip to London in the mix, some glitter bracelets; I have a variety of off-the-wall accessories that I've kept over the years for random nights like these...)

Today (Feb. 5th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-05T21:16:00.000-08:00

Friday and the weekend has arrived...

Today I felt like looking like a Russian spy. Beret, cozy layers and neutral colors :)

You can't see them very well in this photo but I bought this awesome pair of black thigh-high leg warmers for about $9 at Strawberry and they have quickly become my winter savior when it comes to blocking the NYC wind chills! That and this super awesome chunky vest that has never let me down, even on some of the frostiest days. This olive matching sash came with it and I love how versitile it is; it's the perfect length for twisting, styling and knotting in new ways to change up the look.

I also recently have acquired an adoration for berets like this floppy crocheted one - it's so slickly Bonnie & Clyde! I had to buy a replacement for my favorite plum beanie I lost this past weekend :( - slightly sad cloud.

But I think this one will be a delightful addition to my wardrobe.

I wonder how much spies get paid anyway...

Black Crocheted Beret (St. Marks Street Vendor...$12)
Eggplant Sweater Mini Dress (H&M...about 3 years old...$24)
Black Leggings (Strawberry...$7)
Olive Green Sweater Vest (Marshalls...$24)
Black Thigh-High Leg Warmers (Strawberry...$9)
Jeffrey Bay Boots (South Africa...sooo deliciously warm!)
Black Jelly Bracelets (Hot Topic)

By the way... I caught a serious fashion don't while I was walking in Soho today with my good friend, Lindsay and I had to share. It was a noble attempt at theme and color but a sure-fire miss in my fashion book. This is certainly not a Friday afternoon day-time look, to be sure.

As if the fit of this American Apparell tribal-print mini skirt (shown on left side in white and black) weren't bad enough, it's in noticable competition with the cropped, plaid, red and black jacket with fur trim that hugged her Nothern hemisphere. This is part of what pushes this look over the edge. Add this haphazardly slung purse with clashing elements of pink and sneakers that hit at an unflattering point in the leg and you've got a complete fahsion clash. I think the worst part was the fact that this poor girl looked visibly uncomfortable and was constantly pulling down her skirt in awkwardly. Let this be a lesson, friends...if you're not feeling 100%, you're probably not looking 100%. Let your concious be your guide, fashionistas :)

Today (Feb. 4th, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-04T08:44:00.001-08:00

Casual Thursday. I wanted to be at the peak of comfort :) It was surprisingly sunny sunny today and the Vitamin D is a welcomed change.

I'm sort of in love with this t-shirt. It just makes me sooo happy. Someone commented on it today and said it made them happy to see a jolly cartoon burger with arms and legs. That's just one of the reasons that it makes me happy :)

So here's a shot of the Raspberry Crumb pie I baked yesterday to prove that I actually have some baking skills, lol.

Gray Levi Denim Skinnies (Levi...$50)
Teal Long-Sleeved Tee (Strawberry...$7)
"Extra Cheesy" Burger Tee (Forever 21...$14)
Black Crochet Beret (St. Mark's Street Vendor...$12)
Dark Brown Jeffrey Bay Boots (South Africa)

Today (Feb. 3rd, 2010) I'm Wearing...

2010-02-03T20:45:00.001-08:00

Wednesday. Maybe it was the cold or the recent fall of the snow, but I felt like baking something that invoked warmth and love. In the end, it was a raspberry pie... and for the record, it was delicious.

I went with a lot of layers today. At first I questioned my sanity a tad when I paired this splatter paint t-shirt with this blue paisley button-up vest, but it worked. Toss on a boufriend cardigan and a multiple grommet belt and I was in business.

Although I am eagerly awaiting the Spring, I have to say I am slowly getting this whole "layering" thing and the options are quickly becoming endless. Anyway, this outfit was the best kind becuause when I went out to meet some friends for happy hour, all I had to do was throw on a pair of boots with a low heel and I was set. I love when an outfit does practically all the work for you and can adapt to any scenario in a heartbeat. ;)

I rarely wear gold but when I saw this delicate multi-strand necklace at a flea market I fell in love with it instantly. It reminds me of a family heirloom or something that one of the characters in 'Pride and Prejudice' would wear...

Black/ White Splatter Paint Tee (Forever 21...$13.80)
Blue Floral Paisley Tunic Vest (Urban Outfitters...$9 on sale)
Brown Grommet Belt (Thrift Store...$8)
Gold Chain Necklace (Woodstock Flea Market...$2)
Gray Boyfriend Cardigan (Strawberry's...$16)
Black Skinny Pants (Forever 21...$16)
Gold Nautical Earrings (Woodstock Flea Market...$2)
Black Knee-High Flat Boots (Thrifted)