Pretty Exquisite

A Volcanic Ensemble, For Annie.

2010-03-28T22:15:00.004-04:00

To kick things off, I should probably mention that this post is dedicated to my beloved cat, Annie.

A volcanic ensemble (to use a Ducky-ism) can be composed of a variety of diverse and eclectic (preferably eccentric) pieces. Viable contenders for Epic Volcanic Ensemble Composition include those fabulously tacky necklaces your mom wore in the early 80s, that jacket with the too-big arms that your dad got in Nepal that you originally hated and now love, an absurd hat that smells like moth-balls that your grandma dug out of her attic, and, in this case:

TOTALLY AWESOME WARHOL GRANNY SHORTS.

I've had a love/hate relationship with these babies for the longest time. I was smitten after seeing them on the rack at the local thrift store, yet after a year it's been a quest of epic proportions to figure out just how to make the stupid things fit properly. Thanks to a good amount of butterfly clips and safety pins (because I'm actually the laziest person alive and sewing silk is just way too much effort and probably out of the limited reaches of my sewing expertise) I think I've finally worked out a good system.

They're zany and obnoxiously colorful (in accordance with the Color-Conscious Pact of Last Post) and just the right type of weird and guys...they have soup cans on them...I doubt it gets any better than that. Plus, Warhol! It's almost better than the new Lady Gaga video, although granted much less weird and Tarantino-reference loaded...but hey, pop culture reference nonetheless.

Sunday Night Procrastination has been in full effect since 8:00 this evening, but I can't really bring myself to do anything about it. My mind is too filled with everything else I'd rather be doing (also, pity me. I have to make up gym class during every single one of my free periods this week. Death. Spring break cannot come sooner. April 17th is too far away.). My mind is lingering on the summer and the promise of sunshine and adventure, writing and actually producing a product (during said summer), and college, the dreaded all-consuming conversation topic of junior year. I know where I want to go, so why can't I apply now and save all the needless worry (grrrrrr *stressed junior near the end of her rope*)!

(shorts: vintage, top: random gift, tights: Target, shoes: Payless)

But, as with most things, the promise of spring and some really fabulous Warhol soup can shorts can brighten even the most unshakable Sunday Blues.

Oh hey!

2010-03-21T16:48:00.006-04:00

HIATUS BROKEN!
It feels good to be back.

More than three months since I've posted? Kerrazy. Needless to say, the busy schedule is still in fine form, but since there is no foreseeable end in sight, I have returned. I just missed it too much! I missed photoshooting, and playing dress-up, and sharing my opinion, and (of course) I missed hearing from all of you!

So. As I'm currently procrastinating from writing a paper about the clash of cultures in America during the 1920s, this will be rather short. But fear not! I'll hope to be back at it very shortly.

This past week ushered in the most incredible spring weather (because really, after about five months, snow gets old real fast) with highs clocking in at 75 (=I die of happiness) (also, something that has not changed: I'm an avid abuser of parentheses). With the spring weather finally making its mark, I figured it was about time to shed winter's black layers and moth-ball smelling vintage sweaters in favour of some breathable fabric and much-needed vibrant colour.

With the weather in mind: Sarongs!
After living in Asia, every closet in our house is practically stuffed with them, so it would be a shame not to see them put to good use.

A goal of mine is to start being more mindful of colour when dressing. Normally I just throw things on with little regard as to whether the colours work* (and not in a "cool clashing/Susie Bubble" type of way, more an "oh my god did you get dressed in the dark/sloppy baby!" type of way)(the parenthetical aside strikes again). In general I tend to be more of a silhouette-wary/conveying an idea type of dresser.

It's kind of off topic, but what kind of a dresser do you think you are? What are you conscious of when getting dressed in the morning? What do you tend to stick with? Why do you think that is?

Moving on. The jist of that, before the stream of consciousness question chain: Sarongs will hopefully help me keep colour in mind when I dress.

*A theory: Maybe I dress with a stubborn disregard to colour because I hate the idea of matching. I DESPISE it when people ask, "Does this match?" because really, who cares! Wear what you want to wear! And for that matter, WHY DOES IT MATTER IF YOU WEAR NAVY AND BLACK TOGETHER?!?! Really!

In other news...things that are creeping me out lately: Terry Richardson.
We all knew he was a sketch, but some of these stories coming out reek of the Ick Factor.

sarong: some market in Bali, top: some market in Hong Kong, shoes: Urban Outfitters

And as for something less disturbing and creepy: I got new shoes! The best part? They're ridiculously comfortable.

With that I've got to go! That essay and a mountain of other work are calling.

Sunday Blues

2010-01-10T20:48:00.000-05:00

January. Is. Eating. Me. Alive.
Now I know why people complain so much about junior year. Here's a small taste of this month's to do list:

-continue research for thesis paper
-write thesis paper
-learn and memorize ACDA music (I'm predicting the Romanian and Czech numbers will bury me, not to mention I butcher French pretty much all the time)
-read a book for APUSH
-do SAT practice tests until I can get a 2400 without batting an eye on the stupid thing
-read Huckleberry Finn and random Nathaniel Hawthorne stories as pre-course work for my American Authors course by the time second semester starts
-write 4 essays on the above reading
-STUDY FOR MIDTERMS (= figure out what the frick I'm doing in physics)
-learn Western Regionals music for next weekend
-learn all-states audition song
-prepare an audition tape for this choir I'm dying to perform in
-figure out an audition song for spring musical auditions
-stay mentally stable

Forgive me if this all comes out like garbling all of my thoughts unnecessarily, but I figured I should get it down somewhere to prevent myself from dying of stress or when I inevitably forget about one of these things...it always helps to write it down.

That aside, I guess it's my lame excuse for the real stall in posting. I miss all of you bunches. Some of you may have read that my friend Annie recently said good-bye to blogging, which I totally understand and have considered BUT I blog for a reason and so hopefully I'll be able to hold on to that reason through all of this craziness.

Ergh. I'm no good at expressing myself.

With that in mind, I really want to thank you guys for sticking with me, even if things have been a bit iffy lately. I really hate feeling like I haven't been doing the blog justice recently, but once the insanity dies down I'm hoping to put out posts that I can be proud of again.

So, since we all need a break sometimes, I'm going to use this post as an opportunity to throw a ton of pictures your way. Allow yourself to get lost in them. Forget about stress for at least a little while. Isn't escapism what fashion is all about, anyways?

Taking On the City In True History Nerd Style

2010-01-03T21:09:00.002-05:00

Yesterday my friend Tucker and I journeyed into the city for a day spent hitting up museums for thesis notes and extra credit in our history class. It was so worth it. Here's a blow by blow of how the day went down:

9:51- After finding a decent seat on the train, we sipped our Starbucks contentedly and found ourselves wishing that our tickets said "Mind the Gap" rather than "Watch"...once again the Brits have got it right. Going into the city is one of the few times I treat myself to a Starbucks, so needless to say I was in heaven.

10:45...ish- After a battle against the formidable New York winter wind, we arrived at the Met. We ditched our coats and were soon on our way to hunt down the object of the entire trip: an exhibit called American Stories, for our APUSH class. I wasn't all that intrigued by the whole thing until entering the sublimely lit gallery featuring some Mary Cassatts I've been longing to see. I'm such a sucker for the Impressionists. Note my awesomely nerdy audio guide gear. Quality.

11:54 to 11:59- After the American Stories exhibit and stumbling upon an amazing Robert Frank exhibit that I had seen and fallen in love with in DC (I conceded and bought the exhibition book), we came across a hall of beautiful unfinished sculptures. I rather prefer these to any finished product...there's some inexplicable mystery and rawness to them that I just love. THEN. While trying to find an exit we found my long-time favourite gallery in the whole museum. Monet. Utterly divine. Honestly I could stay in there all day.

12:15- Upon making our way to the lobby, we spotted the most priceless example of the Mr. Mom phenomenon. It was a photo op like no other...I mean, who could resist those adorable blonde boys?

12:27- While perusing the museum store I came upon the area healthily stocked with the most beautiful fashion books. I could not be torn away.

1:16- After finally escaping the hoard of people that were swamping the Met lobby, we began our walk across Central Park...in the sub-arctic temperatures it was an interesting experience.

1:38- A lunch of Indian food that I was badly craving. The chicken tikka masala and fresh nan were notably delicious. Actually, who am I kidding. It all was.

2:42- We arrive at the New York Historical Society (aka History Nerd Adventure part 2). Lincoln greets us.

3:37- After roaming around for a while doing some quality thesis research, we came to the museum shop in search of a gag gift for our history teacher. Out of all the tempting choices (Robert E Lee stuffed doll, Barack Obama paper doll, Ulysses Grant pez dispenser, Frederick Douglass finger puppet) we found the most epic souvenir ever. "You can call us Aaron Burr from the way we're droppin' Hamiltons". WIN. Sadly, it was $14...too much for two broke students.

And then we were off to Grand Central for the train home.

I definitely need to get into the city more. Sometimes I just marvel at the way New Yorkers function: one day in the city and I'm dead asleep on the train ride home from exhaustion. How do they keep it up? There must be some superhuman caffeine consumption going on there.

Have you guys ever been to the big N-Y-C? Where did you go? What did you eat? Who did you see? Are you as helpless at navigating as I am? Doubtful.

Countdown

2009-12-31T15:24:00.001-05:00

TenSongs
The soundtrack to my year, these tunes kept me jamming all year long.

10. September by Earth, Wind, and Fire
9. The General Specific by Band of Horses
8. The Nosebleed Section by Hilltop Hoods
7. In Love At 19 by Mark Mathis
6. Beat It by Michael Jackson
5. Everybody Loves Me by OneRepublic
4. Winter by Joshua Radin
3. Sweet Dreams Are Made of Seven Nation Army by DJ Poly
2. Life In Technicolor II by Coldplay
1. Bad Romance by Lady GaGa

NineImages
The photos I just can't stop looking at.

EightCollections
The shows that blew my mind.

1. Missoni a/w 2009
2. Alexander Wang s/s 2010
3. Dries van Noten a/w 2009
4. Gary Graham s/s 2010
5. Proenza Schouler s/s 2010
6. Comme des Garcons a/w 2009
7. Rodarte s/s 2010
8. Mary Katrantzou a/w 2009

SevenWords
A word nerd at heart, it is always a good day when I learn a delicious new word.

ethereal

logorrheic
e u p h o r i a

zephyr
illumine
leviathan
NEFARIOUS

SixModels
The faces I just can't seem to get out of my head.

1. Dorothea Barth Jorgensen
2. Jac Jagaciak
3. R'el Dade
4. Ranya Mordanova
5. Rose Cordero
6. Frida Gustavsson

FiveStyleIdols
The ladies that dress to the nines all day, every day. They continue to inspire me.

1. Anna Dello Russo
2. Shala Monroque
3. Taylor Tomasi Hill
4. Vika Gazinskaya
5. Catherine Baba

FourBooks
After reading them for the first time this year, these were the books that pervaded my thoughts long after turning the last page.

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Dante's Inferno
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

ThreeEditorials
Nothing can express an idea quite as well as the aesthetic created by these spreads.

Vogue UK March 2009: "Chocks Away" with Lily Donaldson, shot by Tim Walker

Crash #50: "Grey Gardens" with Elsa Sylvan, shot by Alexandra Catier

Purple Fashion F/W 2009: "We Don't Need No Education" with random adorable kids, shot by Ryan McGinley

TwoBlogs

Style Rookie: I don't love her because she goes to all the shows, I don't love her because the Mulleavy sisters love her, I don't love her because she's cooler than I ever was at 13. In fact, I love her in spite of those things, as the tiniest bit of envy is inevitable. I love her because she's funny, she doesn't take herself too seriously, her imagination has no limits, she's light-hearted, she proves that fashion has no age limit, she's witty, she makes me think, she makes other people think, she says what she means, and she means what she says. And so ends my love letter to Tavi.
The Photodiarist: Certainly not a fashion blog by any means, but it would be silly to ever discount a blog for that reason. Hitting up the streets of New York armed only with her camera, The Photodiarist seems to capture the most simply intimate scenes of life in New York. These photos provide me with endless inspiration, all shot in the most beautifully timeless black and white.

OneYear

2009...it's been crazy, but I'm ready for more. Bring on the new decade.

Happy New Year, everyone.

Walking In A Winter Wonderland

2009-12-21T20:00:00.001-05:00

I feel as if all of the sudden the temperature has plummeted and we've been thrust into arctic temperatures (whether I'm happy about it or not). Although I often resent the cold and the gross grey skies during the winter, nothing can catch my breath like a newly snow-swept landscape. That came in spades a few days ago. Luckily, I'm rather fond of curling up with my book in the midst of a snow storm, so I didn't resent the cold all that much.

(tank: DIY/vintage, dress worn as skirt: Forever 21, tights: Urban Outfitters, necklace: Forever 21, snow boots: le madre's)

I recently cracked out my mom's 30 year old sewing machine to whip this velvet tank into shape. I bought it as a shapeless v-neck t-shirt, did a little work with the sleeves and took it in A LOT...the outcome satisfied most of the craving for velvet I've had lately. Master seamstress in da houssse.

With all the school-related craziness I find that I haven't really gotten into the Christmas spirit as intently as I normally do. Last night, though, we FINALLY decorated our tree (my family is perpetually 2 weeks behind everyone else's) and got around to being Christmas-y. In my efforts to convert my little brother to the clan of Harry Potter worshipers my generation has become, I read him the first chapter of Sorcerer's Stone...the results are yet to be reported in. Any advice on how to make a kid who thoroughly refuses to read fantasy to get into Harry Potter? I'm determined, so I've got various nefarious schemes up my sleeves...though I would like to refrain from being totally evil about it. But hey, a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do...especially when it comes to Harry Potter.

A few things:
1) PHI WENT BANKRUPT. I'm in absolute DESPAIR. I should wear mourning weeds tomorrow. After totally obsessing about their spring show I'm even MORE torn up that they won't be selling it! RECESSION, LEAVE MY BABIES ALONE. First Yohji. and Lacroix. and Luella. NOW PHI. Corsetted pants and tank tops, you will live forever in my memory.

2) Rodarte for Target is up and running! While I desperately want to order anything and everything I can find in my size online...I really ought to check out the quality. Did anyone show up for the crazy release on Sunday? What did you get? Thoughts? That leopard dress is haunting my dreams.

3) If you have never had these, get on it. I've become addicted to it lately...it's kind of obscene. As an Indian food junkie, this answers all my entreaties for some easy-to-make Indian. Just cook up some basmati in the rice cooker, heat this up for 5 minutes on the stove, and you're in heaven.

4) I had a Hugh Grant chick flick fest a few nights ago...while watching Bridget Jones' Diary I re-realized how attractive Colin Firth is. WHY IS HE SO OLD NOW.

One and a half more days until break. Here's to making it through without keeling over from exhaustion!

Here I Lie, On My Own In A Separate Sky

2009-12-19T21:10:00.000-05:00

Oh wait! I really missed you guys!
School has kind of consumed my soul, lately.
Luckily with Christmas break (who are they kidding, it's not a holiday break...and Secret Santa is not Secret Snowman or Secret Snowflake) I'll be able to get back to posting regularly!

Today has been the most delightful use of a Saturday:
-driving on the highway for the first time..and actually enjoying it whilst going through all the ways I could possibly die in my head
-reading The French Lieutenant's Woman all cozied up in my mom's Snuggie. I'll admit it, they're fantastic
-looking through the last decade's worth of Comme des Garcons collections
-cracking out my mom's 30 year old sewing machine for a little adventure with the needle and thread...positive reviews of said venture to be determined
-waiting for a snow storm that NEVER CAME
-making Christmas pressies
-listening to Coldplay all day...I always have those moments when I re-realize how much I love them

I think the best part of the day was just being able to get my creative juices flowing again. When it gets to this time of year at school, I literally feel like all I do is eat, sleep, and work.

That said, I really really really miss blogging. A lot. I miss reading your stories and sharing mine with you. Hopefully life will stop getting too far ahead of me soon!

Since it's been so cold lately (seriously, it feels like freaking Pluto but we still don't have snow...what's that all about?) my picture taking has begun to be limited to the indoors. My room is kind of unsightly, but luckily I love our living room. It's so warm and home-y. And apparently it matches my dress. Crazy stuff.

(dress: vintage, belt: vintage, leggings: ...JC Penny? Macy's? Generic department store of choice?, boots: Michael Kors)

As you can see, the brother-creature decided to join in on the fun. Boys will be boys.

The Michael Kors boots have been kind of over-worn on the blog, but that doesn't concern me too much. I seriously live in them. So comfy, and perfectly fitting with literally any ensemble I can conjure up. That's always a good sign.

Time Won't Let Me Go

2009-12-07T22:14:00.006-05:00

I'm slowly beginning to realize that I actually don't have a life this year. This afternoon, in the midst of doing my math homework in my chipper, assiduous way (yeah right.) I came to the realization that:
1. I have not actually made plans with my friends in more than a month.
2. I have not read a book for pleasure in three weeks (and I left off in the MIDDLE of The Power of Myth by The Man Whom I Idolize And Worship The Ground He Walks On Joseph Campbell...THAT'S PRACTICALLY SACRILEGE.)
3. I have not forgotten any homework for my classes in two months.
4. I have not browsed MLIA or Texts From Last Night in A MILLION YEARS.
5. I have absolutely no idea what I'm getting people for Christmas this year
6. I know the name, place, and date of establishment of the first shop that sold paper dressmaking patterns in the 19th century.

I NEED TO GET OUT MORE. Seriously.
But school work is consuming my life at the moment.
It's junior year, so I suppose it's only to be expected.

One thing that I've been slaving over recently is a project I'm actually getting really into: a thesis paper for my APUSH class. Laugh if you will, but I'll have all you suckers know that I came up with the BEST IDEA EVER. No big deal or anything. And just because I know that you're dying to hear what it is, here goes:

"Although fashion has long been dismissed throughout history as frivolous and worthless beyond mere material value, it is in fact one of the preeminent perspectives through which to analyze the defining events of the Gilded Age."

The best part? I get to write about Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Chanel, and Haute Couture FOR A CLASS.
Making independent choices as a student=très awesome.

In the spirit of some older more well-worn styles of the past, I've been in a bit of a love affair with all things antique lately.
Lace, brocade, draping, beadwork, ruffles, velvet, tapestry, rich colours, gold, all with a touch of oriental flavouring, have been on my mind of late.

Some other exciting news has popped up recently...

oh yes.
The Deathly Hallows trailer has OFFICIALLY been released.
You have no idea how excited I am.
Potter nerds rejoice!
I hate to say it, but I'm really going to be upset once all the movies are out...then Harry Potter really will be over. Does anyone else feel this way?

And because I need to wake up at a too-early hour en la mañana, I must end this post sooner than I would like. I miss actually having time to post.

I Remember The Truth: A Warm December With You.

2009-12-02T23:54:00.001-05:00

Happy December!
I can almost hear the Christmas bells ringing! I hope you all had absolutely fantabulous Thanksgivings/weekends. We can now officially say that the holiday season has begun! After my minor freak-out yesterday, I figured I really need to just steep myself in some good ol' fashioned holiday spirit.

I'll be the first one to admit it: I absolutely love the holiday season. Everything about it. To me, there are few things better than curling up in a big armchair in front of a fire reading a book with Ella (Fitzgerald) and Louis (Armstrong) jazzin' it up with a few Christmas standards in the background. Nothing can compare to the first snowfall, when the trees are bedecked in the most beautiful, pure white or a night's drive passing by houses with windows illuminated by lights.
I just love December.

Formula for a perfect December

1.
Start with a pristine snow-swept day.

citation.

2.
Add a blazing fireplace and a deliciously cozy armchair.

3.
Multiply that by a soundtrack that perfectly complements those brisk wintry days when the wind numbs your lips and you can watch your breath spiral into the white-washed air. I'm always inclined towards all things acoustic when it comes to these types of things.

A Wintry Mix. (hah get it? I'm so punny.)
Skinny Love...Bon Iver
Closer...Joshua Radin
Casimir Pulaski Day...Sufjan Stevens
Ice Age...Pete Yorn
What If You...Joshua Radin
If You Were Here...Cary Brothers
I Sing I Swim...Seabear
Someone Else's Life...Joshua Radin
To Be Alone With You...Sufjan Stevens
Re: Stacks...Bon Iver
Eyes...Rogue Wave
The Fear You Won't Fall...Joshua Radin
Lovers Without Love...Joshua James
Ride...Cary Brothers
I'd Rather Be With You...Joshua Radin
For the Widows in Paradise, for the Fatherless in Ypsilanti...Sufjan Stevens
World Spins Madly On...The Weepies
I'll See Your Heart, and I'll Raise You Mine...Bell X1
The New Love Song...Joshua James

And, of course, my two quintessentially "winter day" type of songs:

The first is quaint and just undeniably adorable, it sets me in the perfect mood to enjoy a little time at Starbucks and just take everything in. The second...it's hard to begin to explain how much I love this song. It's simple, but never, ever, ever gets old...which is a hard thing to achieve. There's such a beauty to it that hasn't been tampered with and it can perfectly align to most anything on my mood spectrum. It's just love.
(some of you might recognize it from Scrubs...the episode of which has got to be one of my favourites...I'll own up that it makes me misty-eyed...and I'll own up that that was an EXTREME understatement)

4.
Subtract the below zero temperatures, add hot chocolate for good measure.

citation.

5.
Square that by the release of the Rodarte for Target collection, DECEMBER 20TH.

A kind warning to all of you: this champagne lace dress is MINE in a small. If you see me snatch at you with my claws out during the opening, you will know that you have GONE TOO FAR.

6.
Subtract the money needed for holiday gift shopping.

7.
Add a Wish List!

-A subscription to Pop and/or Lula and/or Russh and/or Crash. I'm having a really hard time deciding which to ask for...any advice?
-An assortment of Urban Outfitters goodies, including a wide variety of shoes
-Illustration markers
-A subscription to Netflix
-A new ipod (since mine is on the brink of death)
-A Danny Roberts print
-An unbelievably huge cork board with massive mood board potential
-Richard Avedon photography book
-A book from Easton Press...I think they're so beautiful

= = = = = =

a beautiful, spectacular, stellar, cozy, warm, brilliant, decadent
DECEMBER

Ergh.

2009-12-01T23:10:00.002-05:00

I reallyreallyreally want to post, don't get me wrong, but school is pretty much eating away at any free time I have right now. After a meeting at my school today about college plans, I'm in the midst of my mid-high school crisis...to be honest, I'm just dreading I won't be accepted into the place I love. I know it's WAY early to be freaking out about this, but I'm only human, and I have a bad habit of dreaming too far.

Hopefully I'll be back to myself tomorrow and I'll be able to post then!

I'm A Barbie Girl In The Barbie World.

2009-11-25T23:18:00.000-05:00

Holiday breaks really are beautiful, beautiful things. I don't think I could have gotten through another whole school week with my sanity completely in tact. Good news is, I have break until next Monday! HALLELUJAH. And for all you cool cats chillin' Stateside, THANKSGIVING IS TOMORROW!

Ten Reasons Why Thanksgiving is Da Bomb

1) Homemade apple pie. Need I say more?
2) The weather stops PMSing and actually decides to get cold, rather than all this half-hearted overcast business we've been getting lately.
3) I can listen to Christmas music without inhibition. For a Christmas junkie like me, this is a very, VERY exciting thing.
4) Cheesy as it is, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade never gets old.
5) ...and my family happens to be partial to the dog show afterwards as well.
6) You get to sneak inconspicuous amounts of food from the kitchen. My personal favourite illegal treat are the cinnamon and sugar coated apple slices intended for the pie...but since when do I follow rules?
7) I don't know about you guys, but when my family's all together for the holidays, CRAZY stuff happens...like the epic fart noise making contest of '07 or the taboo showdown of '08.
8) Thanksgiving episodes on TV. Let's just admit it, we all know the Thanksgiving-themed Friends episodes were always the best.
9) Lots and lots and lots of sleep. That post-easting binge nap is always spectacular.
10) Leftovers.

I recently had to write a piece for my English class reflecting back on a specific childhood memory. With all that strolling down Memory Lane, Barbies have been on my mind lately. The photos below are the result of that, although this Barbie is more broken-down and raw.

(top: vintage, skirt: F21, boots: Michael Kors, belt making like a necklace: vintage, headband: one of the last remaining mementos of my childhood glitter phase, bow: F21)

I've also been unabashedly stalking the Urban Outfitters site recently. Give it a go sometime, it's an unbeatable procrastinating tool. Since I spent most of the time beefing up my wish list in time for the holidays, I've compiled quite a lust list of pieces I'm itching to get my hands on.

(So upset this is sold out in that delicious green colour//I've been in the mood for a little ponch action to start going on in my wardrobe)

(as a rifler myself, I've been keeping my eyes peeled for some good bullet jewelry//I think that's just about the coolest piece of jewelry I've ever seen)

There's plenty more...but I fear posting it may bring on an EXTREMELY unnecessary shopping spree.

In any case, I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving, travel safely! For those of you reading from outside the US, be thankful that your nation doesn't feel the need to celebrate an extremely overly romanticized myth...though I will say you're missing out on the food.

I Can See A Lot of Bright In You, And I Think The Dress Looks Nice On You.

2009-11-17T23:15:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, guys! Good news!
My inspiration has been restored!
Thank goodness, it was about time. It was getting old fast.

Lately I've been rummaging around in my closets, and each time I seem to come away more and more dejected. Why, you ask?
Let me ask you this: do you have loadsandloadsandloadsandloads of pretty dresses that have only been worn once or twice (in public, at least. I'll gladly own up to the fact that I like randomly playing dress up once in a while...it keeps my inner child alive) living in your closet? Do you ever wish there was a way you could wear them without looking too over-the-top and prissy and generally like a complete doof?
Yeah, so do I.
So I decided to make a pact with myself:
I solemnly swear ~~that I am up to no good~~ that I WILL find some way too wear each of my fancy dresses in a more casual school-friendly manner in the following week.

Self-imposed challenges are good for me. Most of the time I rise to the occasion.

So here's the first of what I hope to be a week's worth of successful examples of dressing down.

I fancy this shot as one that looks like a still from an old Hollywood movie. I flatter myself.

(dress: the tag fell off, but it's affectionately referred to as The Homecoming Dress by those familiar with it...ISWEARITSMAGIC; lace top: vintage slash stolen from my mom's closet; slip: also stolen from mom; boots: Urban Outfitters)

Don't let your beautiful dresses waste away in your closet. They secretly cry every time you shut the closet door.

Not really. But still. Nothing like quality guilt tripping, right?

So I challenge you all to do the same! Maybe not for one whole week if you don't think you're up to it, but give it a go. It's a crash course in figuring out how to make it work (hahzomgprojectrunwayreferenceseewhatididthere?!).

In Which Hansel and Gretel Complete My Life

2009-11-15T20:43:00.003-05:00

I have no inspiration. What so ever. I can't remember the last time I felt so utterly uninspired. I'm in desperate need of a pick me up.

LUCKILY there are things like the ABSOLUTELYBRILLIANTEFFINGFANTASTICWORKOFGENIUSMASTERPIECE editorial from the December Vogue to keep the right side of my brain at least semi-conscious.

What makes this editorial all the more satisfying is the lovely, flawless, angel-faced Lily Cole, who I've really missed recently. It's like the fashion gods answered my prayers by giving Grace Coddington a revelation in the form of this spread. I always find Grace is at her best when she takes her inspiration from children's stories (read: 1 and 2...although Natalia Vodianova also might have something to do with it...)

Anyways...in summary:

Lily Cole + Grace Coddington + Annie Leibovitz = TRIFECTA OF PERFECTION.

Which makes me one happy blogger.

(The white things the choristers are wearing are called cottas. They are probably one of the first pieces of clothing I can remember being intrigued by. I remember my second grade self being fascinated with the huge sleeves...I fancied them very princess-like)

Grace Coddington is the only thing that keeps US Vogue alive for me. End of story.

And BONUS: Lady GaGa appearance! After seeing the Bad Romance video I'm feeling much more inclined to like her. She's weird and kind of insane...but I think I'm starting to love her.

Wish me luck on recovering my inspiration. I know it's in there, I just need to dig it back up from under all the piles of stress I've been managing lately. I start to do well in school and my ability to be creative dies...great.

What do you guys do when you're suffering a lack of inspiration??

I'm thinking I'm in need of a wardrobe clean-out.

You Have A Diamond Under Your Skin

2009-11-07T22:13:00.004-05:00

Phew this week was insane. Sorry for the lack of posting! It's practically a miracle I was able to keep myself from blogging during the week. My self-control is astonishing...especially to myself.

(dress: Forever 21, silver chain belt/necklace thing: vintage, gold coin necklace: Forever 21, pearl necklace: stolen from Tucker)

This picture is from a few weeks ago when it wasn't so stupidly cold and gross (until there's snow, I'm going to be bitter about the weather). The idea was basically to pile on loads of necklaces. Antiquity has really been inspiring me lately: lace, gold, silver, heavy chains, all things deliciously Victorian or Gothic.

With so much being eaten alive by homework going on lately, I've been needing a good bit of inspiration.

(This guy has the most enviable hair flip in the world. Plus, he's really pretty.)

Photos by Elena Kalis, Gemma Booth, from Jak + Jil, The Selby, Fred Butler, The Sartorialist

This is a photo-heavy post, but hopefully I'll be posting normally the next few weeks when I'm not so incredibly stressed out.

Thriller

2009-10-30T18:08:00.001-04:00

You know those weeks preceding the ending of a quarter? Yeah? You know how all the teachers catch a bout of crazy and decide to pile on an unbelievable amount of work so it seems like no end may ever come into sight? Yeah. That was this week. Super fun.

Luckily I had one thing keeping me sane: the promise of the weekend. I can't stress enough how addicted I am to autumnal Saturday mornings. There's really nothing better than waking up wrapped up in a heavy comforter and drowsy thoughts to a room bathed in sunlight which looks like it should have the consistency of honey. Top that off with the smell of bacon and waffles and you've got yourself a winner. Delicious.

Today was Halloween at school and I will just say right now that I was extremely impressed. Typically girls use Halloween as an excuse to dress like cheap strippers, and in my past two years in high school, I've seen my fair share of mini-dress and fishnet clad nurses, policewomen, devils, milk maids, Hermione Grangers (makes me SO SAD...I'm sure you understand), and sailor girls. It's enough to make you a little more than uneasy. But this year was oddly different. There were only a select few naughty school girls and some obscene slutty M&M costumes in site. Victory? I think so. Costumes were surprisingly creative and properly whimsical, my personal favourites included a massive 7 ft giraffe costume, T-Pain and Andy Samberg in full boat-ready attire, a leafblower, and a troop of Power Rangers. I went for a more subtle choice, opting to be a Freudian slip. Decked out in a slip with a picture of Freud pinned to it, it proved to be an interesting experience in telling how clued in people are. I got a lot of vacant stares, but I also got a lot of laughs, which made it worth it. Up next for Halloween '10? SPICE GIRLS, BABY. Excited.

I also recently found out that it is not legal in my state to trick-or-treat after the age of 16. I'm kind of, sort of heartbroken.

Today's post goes in accordance with the recent Halloween mood.

The death stare of CHAMPIONS.

Skipping is always the way to go. No excuses.

So this tree is kind of the creepiest/coolest thing I've ever seen.

(sweater: vintage, dress: vintage, boots: unknown)

In other news, this song is freaking awesome. Experiment for you lot in school: Play on iPod before exiting bus, enter school, get your groove on, walk down the hall to the beat with a few well placed power steps. You'll feel like the king of the world....at least I do. Officially pumped for the album...I'm such a sucker when bands totally change up their sound from album to album.

For those of you 16 and under, have a blast trick-or-treating legally!
For those of you over 16, get that costume on and get out for some quality candy-snatching, you know that when I turn 17 I'll be right behind you. Illegal Halloween shenanigans are the way to go.

Autumn Is An Apple

2009-10-24T00:22:00.001-04:00

Lately the weather has been utter perfection. The type of golden haze you want to get lost in; the tart, crisp, autumn apple that you want to sink your teeth into; the sunny song that you just want to keep on repeat.

I've never been a fan of autumn, but I think I've finally found my way to the autumn fanatics club. There's just something so beautiful about the world being wrapped in a blanket reds, oranges, and golds. The cooler weather also lets me crack out the pea coat that I love oh so much.

One of my fondest memories of fall when I was younger and one reason I desperately wish I was still the pint-sized tyke I used to be, is jumping into massive piles of leaves made by my dad and later getting picked up in the leaf tarp along with the pile. Did you guys ever do that? If you didn't, you're missing out. If it stops raining this weekend I'm considering getting out and raking my own teenager-sized leaf mountain. Also, I'm convinced Toby secretly judges my antics in front of the camera...just look at those sneaky brown eyes of his.

If any of you have been reading for a reeaaallly long time, you'll remember my temptation to get out and frolic in the woods even though snow still covered the ground...I see these photos as getting it out of my system before the blizzards start coming. During the winter I get a bit of a caged animal mentality. Not being able to read outside on the weekends= a recipe for disaster for me mentally.

Sometimes I feel like people don't smile enough. I'm going to keep that in mind more. The world could do with a little more lightness.

Obligatory "I'm a ballerina" shot. I feel like I always post shots like this...

(top: hand-me-down, skirt: Forever 21, coat: H&M, leggings:...I forget? Macy's maybe?, boots: Urban Outfitters)

A Tasty Autumn-Lovers Mix
(for all you cool cats that enjoy making playlists for every occasion like me)

The General Specific : Band of Horses
Australia : The Shins
Lake Michigan : Rogue Wave
Mrs. Potter's Lullaby : Counting Crows
Amsterdam : Guster
Strange Condition : Pete Yorn
Careful : Guster
Why Georgia : John Mayer
Hangin' Around : Counting Crows
Only the Good Die Young : Billy Joel
New Slang : The Shins
In Love, On Sadness : Jason Mraz
Everybody Loves Me : OneRepublic
Same Thing : Pete Yorn
Oxford Comma : Vampire Weekend
Heartbeats : Jose Gonzalez
Chicago : Sufjan Stevens
Saturday Morning : Eels
Strawberry Swing : Coldplay
My Heart : The Perishers
Penny On the Train Track : Ben Kweller
I Know What I Am : Band of Skulls

Despite the fact that he's like five and I've never gotten into the tween obsessions with Zac/Rob/JoBros, Justin Bieber makes me inexplicably happy. He makes me feel like I'm in 6th grade again slash I feel like I should adopt him. Gotta love that bubblegum pop, eh? I give you guys permission to mock me for this one, I probably deserve it.

And this article got me thinking...Robin Givhan has really got so much right going on in here.

"It's always a bit discombobulating when people raise their voices in anger because they've gotten wind that designers are making and selling $25,000 dresses. After all, it's not as if the existence of a dress that costs as much as a car negates the availability of cute $25 frocks at Target. And it isn't as though edicts have been issued that all women must now dress like one of the superheroes on Balenciaga's runway.

For personal and sometimes tortured reasons -- I can't have it so no one else can! -- observers declare that they just don't understand the attraction of these strange and expensive clothes. That would be a fair argument if those same complainers lashed out at people who spend thousands of dollars on Redskins season tickets, vintage wines, first-edition books or midlife-crisis cars. But those industries don't stir nearly as much ire from people who are uninterested in them. Everyone has a passion that is lost on others."

Amen, sister!

Now to show this article to everyone who looks down on me for being into fashion...namely everyone.

Honestly, it's like being into fashion turns you into a leper.

Who Gives A F*** About An Oxford Comma? (no swearing in the title! It's just not my creed, guys!)

2009-10-20T21:38:00.003-04:00

A few thoughts:
1.
I really, really, really miss Lily Cole. She's around...but not as much as I'd like, especially in editorials. Which reminds me, I've come to the conclusion that any time she does something with Tim Walker, it's editorial gold (this is debateable seeing as everything Tim Walker touches is photography gold, but still, I miss Lily).

2.
As if you didn't already think Lindsay was an airhead...

WWD: Who are some of your favorite artists?
Lindsay Lohan: I love Damien Hirst.

WWD: Aside from acting, do you do any other kind of art?
L.L.: I paint.

WWD: What kinds of things do you paint?
L.L.: It depends on what I'm thinking at any given moment.

WWD: Well, what was the last thing you painted?
L.L.: The last thing I painted was completely red, it was a canvas and it was red and then I painted over it in black to make it purple and then I added a blue box in the middle. It was about life and death and living and dying.

WWD: Wow. Umm, so what else are you up to this week?
L.L.: I was supposed to go to Russia tomorrow to open Russian Fashion Week, but it fell through. But it's okay, because my little brother was yelling at me that I wouldn't be making it to his soccer game tomorrow. I love New York. I spent three hours at Fendi today after spending two hours at Versace.

Life and death and living and dying, eh Linds? Your eloquence just blows us away, it is simply unrivaled in all the civilized world.
This kind of reminded me of Friends when Joey's giving his "having, and sharing, and giving, and receiving" speech.
Didn't follow me on that tangent? Don't worry about it, most people don't.

3.
As I discovered today, this is the best song for the walk home in 4 inch heels. It has that sort of...lumbering beat, you know? You should try it sometime...you know...if you wear 4 inch heels to school.
I'm sensing that camp probably has the population of...well...me.
Man, I don't even know where I'm going with this.
It's a good song regardless.

4.
Not fashion related but still EXTREMELY RELEVANT FOR THE GENERAL IMPROVEMENT OF SOCIETY.
On the bus ride home I had one of those pesky situations where my ipod ran out of juice and was therefore subjected to some of the most idiotic drabble I've heard in recent memory.
8th grade male offender #1: Yeah, I think they're both gay. That song is gay but the other is definitely gayer.
8th grade male offender #2: But which one do you think is gayerest?
Seriously? Are you REALLY going to be the product of your parent's ignorance?
You don't even bother being horribly insulting USING PROPER GRAMMAR. If you're going to act like the scum of the earth, at least do it paying a decent amount of attention to your adverbs!
Ugh. People sometimes.

5.
I've discovered lately that writing in pretty fonts and decorating headings makes taking pages and pages of notes much more bearable. Oooh high school, what rapture.

6.
In a bit of a Where the Wild Things Are vein, other than reeeeeally wishing I have the time to see it soon (reviews, anyone, anyone?), I've been mulling over the possibility of a feather...crown...thingy? I apologize for the failure of eloquence, I don't quite have mastery of the English language today (thank you, caffeine). I guess I've sort of got this Topshop masterpiece in my head...it strikes me as very WTWTA (oooh acronym. Keep up with THAT.) anddd I want one. DIY perhapz?

Impractical, yes. BUT INSANELY AMAZING. And really, when have I ever been practical?

7.
Come to think of it, this DIY might not be a bad move. Hurrah Where the Wild Things Are mania! Don't mock me.

And finallyyy

8.
I really just don't get Lindsey Wixson. I just DON'T. She's a human anomaly! Someone explain pleaaaaaassseee. Just, like...WHY? I DON'T UNDERSTAND GUYZ. And if anyone says "Oh, well you're not supposed to understand fashion all the time!" there will be blood. I get that, I just don't get HER. Like...HOW?!?! Please tell me somebody understands my rants.

This is when I kind of understand.
Apparently some people think she looks like Lily Cole? What? I think NOT.

Maybe I need some more time for her to grow on me?

Anyways, I WAS going to post an outfit but we've had a lot of those lately so I figured I'd let my mind explode all over this post instead. Hopefully it wasn't too traumatizing for you guys.

The Name of the Game

2009-10-16T18:57:00.001-04:00

The Name of the Game:

flights of fancy, juxtaposition, lace, dark, light, dream sequence, ethereal

Grey Gardens

2009-10-11T22:53:00.000-04:00

Last night was insane. Delightfully, deliciously, and dangerously insane. The evening was spent in the following manner:
1) Partying it up in a massive party bus
2) Ogling a chocolate covered, pumpkin flavoured, turkey shaped birthday cake made by Sylvia
3) Belting the entirety of Bohemian Rhapsody (a usual occurrence in our group of friends) and grooving to A*Teens and 80s one hit wonders.
4) Eating delicious pizza and gelato, as well as some not-so-delicious tiramisu (it was literally a Cool-Whip EXPLOSION)
5) Drinking water out of champagne glasses
6) Doing crazy (lame) stunts on the street yelling "PARKOUR! PARKOUR!" followed by a lady asking us "How old are you kids, anyways?"...obviously she didn't realize that we can have the time of our lives completely sober.
7) Doing loads of impersonations, the best being of Lady GaGa
8) Watching Rocky Horror on the ride home and noticing new things after more than ten viewings: the criminologist's bling-ed out tie, Janet's chonga necklace, and more instances of Riff Raff being bizarre. Annie and I later decided we should get posters of the criminologist's Time Warp instruction menu
9) Falling down countless times on the bus due to a lack of center of gravity
10) Camera flashes going off endlessly creating a seizure inducing environment

It was way too much fun.

The ceiling mirror on the bus provided endless amusment.

Mad trippy lights on the bus, thanks to extended exposure.

The GaGa impersonators.

If any of you were interested in what Parkour is...this is one of my favourite examples:

Sosososo bamf.

In yet another reprise using Tucker as my beloved photographer (seriously, the tripod and self timer is such a pain in comparison), a have a few shots here of another vintage dress that I bought recently. I think what drew me to it so much in the beginning is the velvet waist band, which just strikes me as so Victorian. And as we all know, all things Victorian are beautiful in my eyes. I had yet to realize how wonderful the dress felt on. The light and deliciously smooth and fluid fabric makes my lower body want to scream THANK YOU after being stuffed into leggings, tights, and jeans all day long. Tucker was feeling a bit of inspiration from Grey Gardens, but seeing as I've never had the chance to see it, she just told me to look "plaintive"....I'm not sure if I pulled that off completely...but I was less focused on that anyways, the amazing feel of the fabric was too busy holding my attention. And while Tucker wanted me to choose a more romantic looking pair of shoes, I just had to stick to my obsession with weird contrasts. Can't teach an old dog new tricks, so behold: light, delicate, Victorian dress with huge clunky, outdoors-y, water resistant, olive coloured boots. Just the way I like it.

(dress: vintage, shoes: Michael Kors)

I'm Late For A Very Important Date

2009-10-08T17:33:00.002-04:00

So you know how that perfume attacked/blinded me the other day? Well, a few mornings ago I was trying to fix the loose top again, and since the top is angular and EVIL, it gauged my finger when my hand slipped. BAH clumsiness!

In other news I know that I'm a huge choir nerd, but I never thought I'd have a nerdy math moment: I was in a choir nerd type of mood and wanted to buy some Gregorian chant from iTunes. I couldn't decide between two albums (one by the King Singer's who I adore/worship/kiss the ground they walk on) and proceeded to spend the next 15 minutes calculating the cost per song and the cost per second. Being the thrifty gal I am, I ended up ordering the cheaper one despite the fact that I had to give the King Singer's a pass. Now, I'm sure I can connect this to an inclination to procrastinate and my hearty dislike for math homework, but I don't really care CUZ I'M TOO BUSY BUSTIN' A MOVE TO GREGORIAN CHANT, YO! Oh yes, believe it.

Also, due to this I'm pretty sure my APUSH teacher thinks I'm a freak:
*listening to iPod while taking test*
Him: "What're we listening to, Curt?"
(he's taken to calling me Curt...which is really confusing since that is my dad's name)
Me: "...gregorian chant...."
*everyone in class looks up*
Him: "...Classy."

Too cool for skool, guys.

Last weekend I implemented Tux's photog skills once again. This dress that I picked up at the massive rummage sale struck us both as very Wendy from Peter Pan-ish, but once we started shooting we realized it came off as more Alice In Wonderland than we expected...which definitely isn't a bad thing. Seriously, who WOULDN'T want to be like Alice. She's a baller at life.

Which reminds me:
HOW EXCITED ARE YOU GUYS FOR THIS MOVIE. GAH. I DIE.
Tim Burton and Johnny Depp genius is sure to ensue come March 2010.

(Dress: thrifted, Shoes: Payless)

Also, this week needs to get a move on and end already.

What Else Could I Do? I'm So Inspired By You. That Hasn't Happened For the Longest Time.

2009-10-04T22:14:00.001-04:00

After an utterly fabulous weekend, I find it perfectly acceptable to allow myself to wallow in the temporary Sunday blues. A quick review of the fabulous whirlwind that was the weekend:

Friday- Homecoming! I'm not usually big on the whole let's-go-see-the-football-game-because-it's-the-only-important-high-school-sport! thing, but I normally make a concerted effort to show up for the homecoming game. Not for the football, of course (I know nothing about the sport and tend to think it's basically a wussy version of rugby, which I LOVE). Somehow every year I manage to have a splendid time sipping copious amounts of hot chocolate and generally having a brilliant time. Initially I was planning on hanging with Annie, Sylvia, and a few others to sell hot cider and popcorn for our high school's theatre group (not surprisingly they had a wonderful time anyways, singing the night away) but due to various circumstances I was with a group I'm less familiar with an had a great time. At 7-14 with ten minutes left in the 4th quarter a few of us opted for hitting up the local diner instead of sticking around for our presumed loss (we later found out that we made the right choice as SURPRISE, SURPRISE we lost). Late night milk shakes and breakfast for dinner soon ensued, followed by the creation of a few of the most hilarious pick up lines I've ever heard. Driving home jamming to the radio was an added plus.

Saturday- MINKS TO SINKS (aka a thrift-lover's paradise). Though I've never actually SEEN minks there, this year I came away with 15 new books, more than 10 new pieces of clothing, and a framed print of the classic Seurat painting (Bueller, Bueller?) ALL FOR $75. It was a magical experience...though by the time I had been there just 15 minutes it felt like I was carrying my weight in coats...and that was just the beginning. Next objective: figuring out how to make the stuff smell less like my grandmother's closet. That should be a doozy. Went over to Tucker's later and proceeded to wake her up at 12 noon (the girl can SLEEP). Once she looked less like a sleep-deprived zombie, I giddily showed her all of my thrift finds and we decided some photoshoot-ing was in order, the product of which you will see later. After a lunch of spaghetti and watching a snippet of Armageddon (none of which, as we learned from our physics teacher recently, is scientificalyy accurate, INCLUDING THE FACT THAT LIV TYLER GOES FOR BEN AFFLECK, DAMMIT.) we were off to a friend's sweet 16. I've decided it's probably the best birthday party I've ever been to. I mean, the thing was basically a 6 hour long nerf war with breaks in between for good food and NARNIA (which we later decided to use as the soundtrack for more epic nerf warring). SO SO SO fantastic...and I have rug burns to prove it. Oh yeah, and I'm licensed to kill with a nerf gun, yo. Beware.

Sunday- The day in which Burberry Brit perfume decides to hate me. While trying to fix the little cap thing-y before leaving for choir rehearsal at 8:30 I stupidly managed to spray the stuff straight into my left eye from 3 inches away. SMART, RIGHT?! ...and so painful. After a few minutes of flushing the stuff out with water, a drive to church, more flushing, and I drive back home I still couldn't open my left eye...while I was semi-worried I'd go blind, I also was secretly relishing the thought that this would mean I'd get to wear an eye patch. A few hours later and I was able to finally open my eye, and the dreams of my pirate alter-ego significantly dampened. The bright side in all of this? Since I was too incapacitated to do any school work I got to spend the afternoon watching some oldies but goodies from my childhood (Lizzie Mcguire Movie and What A Girl Wants, HECK YES).

In any case, it was a wonderful weekend, and since those rarely come around anymore, I thought I should record this one.

I was tagged a while back my my darling Annie to take 10 shots of things that inspire me daily and I've finally got around to doing it...

Ten Daily Inspirations

My closet wall. I've been adding random tidbits of memorabilia to it for years and sadly, it's pretty much as full as it can get right now. Despite that, looking at it every once in a while brings back the most amazing memories and on those days where I almost forget my priorities and the things I love all it takes is a good look at The Wall and I'm on my way to returning to normal...one day I'll do a post about all the things on The Wall.
Pictured: photo from a rocketry class circa 2001, iTunes gift card, Fortune Cookie fortune, small Venitian mask from Venice, a card from one of my old riflery instructors...she was Israeli and awesome, homecoming dance ticket circa 2007, the most beautiful card ever given by my mom for my 15th birthday, US Open ticket circa 2008, a hilarious sheet of notes from an epic tutorial with Tucker, Annie, and I circa 2007, one of those uber tourist-y Eye of London shots, head wreath from our school's Greco Roman Theater Festival circa 2005...Clytemnestra REPRESENT!!!

My first copy of The Lord of the Rings. If you guys don't know yet, I'm a huge LOTR nerd...there's really no denying it. This is my first copy of the trilogy, lugged so many times to and from school by my third grade self that 11 reads later the spine has broken. I can't bear to part with it.

Headboard bookshelf. Yes, you heard me right, my headboard is a bookshelf. It is where all of my favourite books live, as long as the ones I'm currently reading. The shelf has three compartments: the left is for the entire Harry Potter series in hardcover, the center you see pictured...mostly for classics (many stolen from my mother's stacks of old school books, as you can see from her college poetry textbook) and other of my most loved copies.
Pictured: Wuthering Heights, Mom's Brave New World, Tale of Two Cities (old copy that's BEAUTIFULLY illustrated), Mom's childhood collection of The Chronicles of Narnia, Mom's Importance of Being Earnest, Franney and Zooey, Romeo and Juliet, The Merchant of Venice, The Best Northeastern Colleges, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, A Prayer for Owen Meany, British Poetry from the Romantic Period Textbook, Vanity Fair, Storylines, The Bible

Giant map. This map takes up about 6 feet of wall space and is a devotion to my love of traveling. It's a record of the places I've been and the places I want to go...a reminder, if you will, that I am going to go places. I circle places I want to go with pink sharpie and fill in the circle with purple sharpie if I've been there. Silver sharpie means I've lived there. You also get a very blurred view of my très awesome Indonesian hummingbird mobile.

Degas ballerina framed print. We recently dug this out of a closet during Fall cleaning and I immediately went to hide it in my room before it got lost in the mess. I love the Impressionists. Monet has to be my favourite, by Renoir and Degas run a close second and third. Degas' ballerina's make me dream.

Mix CD. A while back, I was having trouble getting over a few crushed aspirations. Annie, being the wondrous friend that she is, took it upon herself to make me a playlist (because really, what problems can't be sorted out by listening to a playlist??). While the music is brilliant, and many of the songs are still amongst my favourites, I think the notes on the casings on both CDs is what makes me love them so. They have such an honest truth to them that simplifies even my most complicated thoughts. Endless inspiration from just two CDs.

You Are Special Book. This summer on the last day of camp, my cabinmates and I made these books, each page from a different person about what qualities make you special. It's the best way to brighten every day. I love my Cabin 0 ladies.

Bedside table knick-knacks. Though I keep my stuff intake to a minimum, my bedside table is nearly always graced with a few random doo-das. These are a few of my favourites. An old shot of my mom and I (when did I stop being CUTE???), a devil rubber ducky, a dragon ceramic cup thing-y, and a picture of my tennis team from a couple of years ago. Hurray pack-rat tendencies!

Environmentally-conscious bags. I normally carry these with me whenever I go shopping somewhere. My household is a bit on the Green Movement obsessed side (to prove how hard-core we are: we have a compost heap in our backyard and grow our own vegetables) so there are always loads of these lying around. We've had these particular two for about 12 years now...my mom's been an environmental nerd wayyyy before the fad started.

Moleskine. There are few things I love in the world more than thick paged, unlined, moleskine notebooks. There's something so visually appealing about the creamy, blank pages and the unassuming black leather cover. Of course, I fill them with all sorts of random tidbits of significance to me: favourite quotes, song listings of albums I think are really really wonderful, book passages, poems, lists. Anything that piques my fancy, really. It's the first place I go to for literary inspiration.

Hope that wasn't too dreary of a post of you lot...I like to get out and explore a bit more than just what the fashion world has to offer every now and again.

Sometimes the Last Thing You Want Comes In First, Sometimes the First Thing You Want Never Comes

2009-09-27T22:00:00.002-04:00

Lord, it's been a long time. The past week has been a fatal combination of loads of school work, a missing camera USB cord, and a general lack of inspiration (the all-around uninspiring LFW did nothing to help me out there). I've been sort of lethargic all week, but I'm hoping that I'll have a turnaround soon.

This week will be Spirit Week at school, which is marginally exciting since it involves getting somewhat dressed up every day...in fact, I'd be unabashedly gung-ho for Spirit Week if it weren't for the Pep Rally on Friday before the homecoming game. It's like a mash-up of cliched high school traditions gone horribly awry...think cheering football team members and a principal attempting to sing the high school's alma mater (which is cringe-worthy in and of itself). The annual pep rally brings out the cynic in me. But hey, we get to dress up, so who am I to complain?

A while ago one of my favourite people in the world, Tucker, and I were hanging around waiting for people to come over and watch movies with us when we decided an impromptu photoshoot sounded like a really good idea (that run on sentence deserves an award...wayyyy tooo lazy to think about syntax or sentence structure...oh, the woes of life as a teenage grammar nazi). Normally I'm kind of weird about people other than Sylvia taking pictures for the blog, but Tucker assured me of her skills in camera wielding. What resulted are some of the best pictures I think I've had the chance to post on here. Hopefully I'll be able to bribe Tucker into lending her photographic eye more often.

This could quite possibly be my favourite shot to date...it's vaguely Richard Avedon-esque...

For some reason, every time I see this shot I think of Alice In Wonderland. There's just something very "down the rabbit hole" about it. Curious.

Then I started getting silly...and fierce, of course.

There's this creepy old treehouse in the far reaches of our front yard/wilderness area that I've been longing to take photos at for a fair amount of time. Upon the discovery of the completely decayed hammock, the location's allure only increased. Playing with the hanging ropes felt very Pirates of the Caribbean/Keira Knightley BAMF...which is a good thing, by all means (seeing as Keira is a TOTAL BABE. Girl crush alert.)

(dress: Target, leggings: Urban Outfitters, shoes: Payless)

After this photoshoot I think I've finally fulfilled that desire from way, way back to go tramping around in the woods in heels. Wahoo!

What did everyone think of London Fashion Week? I'm feeling kind of apathetic about posting since it was a LOT of the same type of stuff in every collection. However, I WILL say that I adored Christopher Kane's gingham extravanganza as well all of the MADCRAZYAWESOME experimentation with abstract digital prints over at Basso & Brooke, Josh Goot, and Mary Katrantzou (total baller, by the way, if you guys haven't checked her out).

ALSO: New header, because I felt the blog needed a bit of a change of scenery. Hope everyone likes it!

New York State of Mind

2009-09-19T20:34:00.007-04:00

After all of my anticipation for Fashion Week to start, New York finally got the ball rolling this past week. With so much reserved minimalism on the horizon for this fall and winter, it's a great comfort to know that there's a forecast for more whimsical and creative options for the spring and summer. Overall, it seems that designers have (for the most part) abandoned last season's fear of the recession since the New York shows exemplified some truly delightful collections celebrating the ingenuity of fashion. With that in mind, it made narrowing down my favourite New York collections difficult. After starting with about 30 shows that particularly peaked my interest, I painstakingly brought the number down to my favourite ten collections. Let me tell you, it was not an easy task. Without further ado (and in no particular order)...

*A note: You will notice from my choices that I'm a big fan of overarching themes and intriguing concepts in collections. The more random, the better. Many say this can often lead to heavy-handedness, particularly in styling. Very true. But those that avoid those faults are the ones I find truly inspiring and fascinating.

Top Ten New York S/S 10

1. Alexander Wang

football, all-american, sporty, casual, comfortable, sexy

EPIC. I DIED. A MILLION TIMES. At first I was a little critical when I heard the inspiration was football 1) because I think it's a rather useless sport. Rugby is so much more hard-core and a million times more fun to watch 2) I didn't take Alexander Wang as a fan of the sport so I wasn't exactly sure how the finished product would turn out. He fulfilled my wildest expectations...even AFTER two seasons of just OWNING it. The guy can do no wrong. The leather separates had me at hello, the slouchy football silhouettes still displayed skin subtley (the Wang signature), and the calf-cutout knee socks are just a stroke of genius. Not to mention I'm going to be working that side braid like nobody's business once my hair grows out a tad. Oh yeah, and the shoes are delicious. Anyone need more incentive to bow down and worship fashion god Alexander Wang? Didn't think so.

2. Rodarte

california condors, singed, dilapidated, texture, primitive

If you didn't think Kate and Laura could get any more awesome, you thought wrong. It blows me away that they continue to surge ahead of the pack with the hands-down most creative concept and resulting clothing every single season. I mean, just LOOK at the stuff. It's pure, unadulterated brilliance. Oh, Mulleavy sisters, you slay me. Other than the fact that the body paint is insanely cool (contemplating whether that could work in real life...unfortunately, I haven't thought of an instance where it would be socially acceptable...but hey, since when have I been socially acceptable?), the details are what made the show. The care shown in lovingly destroying every single fabric and the delicate addition of jewelled netting and sequins shows that each and every one of the Mulleavy's collection is a labour of love. Also, a prediction: those snake skin imprinted zippered leather pants are going to sell like hot cakes.

3. Gary Graham

victorian, deconstructed, romantic, petticoats, slouchy, loose

Thank goodness someone has come along that can articulate my love for all things Victorian through clothing. There is just SO MUCH AWESOME GOING ON HERE. For some reason the whole collection strikes me as rather French Revolution inspired. What I mean by that is that it's more of a "proletariat" type of Victorian rather than the Marie Antoinette-inspired bourgeosie designs of yesteryear...which is why I kind of love it. The worn in brown leather heels are a great addition to the overall feel of the collection and lends it the casual touch it needs without looking sloppy. There is no where to go but up for Gary Graham, in my humble opinion.

4. Proenza Schouler

animal, effortless, scuba-diving, casual cool, wild, vibrant

This season's effort by my boys Jack and Lazaro is probably my favourite since the killer s/s 08 collection (which is actually quite a long time ago if you think about it). They totally nailed it. Though there wasn't a specific theme, per say, I fancy that the ensembles (after the first few more casual ones) make the models look like tropical animals, from exotic birds to coral reef inhabiting fish. I really started getting drawn in when the tie dye (minimally used in their resort collection), sequins, and neons started showing up in abundance. The last few pieces were enough to satify my wild child alter ego for the next few seasons at least (this means that there's no way a guady Cavalli can tempt me later, thank goodness). Also, the neon top in the center bottom row shot vaguely resembles my long-sleeved chartruese top which means I will be working it lots more with the confidence in knowing that vaguely vomit-looking colours are acceptable! Score.

5. Isaac Mizrahi

menswear, sequins, fifties, throwback, singin' in the rain

If there's one show that I really wish I could've seen in person this week, it would be Isaac Mizrahi. Have you HEARD about the spectacle that was the set?? Golf cart, rain machine...what does it all mean?? It doesn't matter, really, it just sounds insanely cool to attend a show in which there is an operating rain machine. As far as the clothes go, I thought they were a great take on classic pieces that provided an accessible and wearable twist like excessively draped skirts or sequined hot pants (one of the best looks, I thought). It was all kept within very simple parameters which kept things very chic without having the appearance of trying too hard. I do love a good vintage throwback.

6. Dennis Basso

light, cocktail, uptown, degas, lingerie, weightless

It's no secre that I'm a sucker for a good, knock-out, romantic dress. Dennis Basso definitely delivered for me this season with his jaw-droppingly gorgeous collection made up almost entirely of beautiful, floaty cocktail dresses. I LOVE the ballerina reference (you can see it particularly in the first shot I've featured), and have determined that I should invest in some quality, non-cliched dancer-off-duty separates come warmer weather. Of course, I would love to skip around in these dresses every day of the week, but let's be realistic, shall we? Also concerning the collection, I loved the very subtle sexiness of the stockings sticking out just within visibility from the skirts of the dresses...it strikes me as rather French.

7. Julian Louie

sunset, tailored, panels, sherbert, airy, ethereal

After championing the brilliance of newcomer Julian Louie all last season, I was so glad he came back this season to impress. And impress he did. His point of inspiration, a sunset, could have easily become boring and predictable, but instead he used the most delightful and delicious looking colours and contasted them with sharp tailoring and geometric panels. This all came across in an effortless, nonchalant type of way, making it all the more impressive that Louie is a burgeoning designer. Here's to his bright future.

8. 3.1 Phillip Lim

eclectic, mash up, sparkle, material, miscellany

There really wasn't any major theme going on at Phillip Lim, at least not one that I could extrapolate...and I'm normally pretty good at that. Luckily, the show was held together by the proliferation of extremely fun and wearable pieces. Perhaps it's because of the recession, but this collection seems like it's tailor made for every type of Lim customer...perhaps why the ideas are so haphazard and random...not that I'm objecting, of course. The more random ideas means the more interesting clothes means the more I am intrigued. My hunt for a sequined blazer to love and cherish for the rest of my life may be well over, I practically died when I saw the masterpiece of silver sparkley perfection. Also, correct me if I'm wrong, but to me the last few looks seemed to resemble a more romanticized Rodarte design. Thoughts?

9. Marc by Marc Jacobs

africana, mix n' match, ethnic, statement patterns, bold

I'll be the first to admit that I was very underwhelmed with the Marc Jacobs collection this season. I mean come on, geishas? That's SUCH A COOL IDEA. He could have done so much more with it than he did. Hrmph. I am displeased. Luckily, the little sister collection came through for me in more typical Jacobs form. Ker-aazy mixing of patterns, prints, and materials going on here...which I love. Vaguely reminiscent of the Americana mash-up he did a few seasons ago that I was head over heels for. When I saw the sweater on the bottom left it was in an ensemble worn by one of the male models, which got me really disappointed since the sweater is ROCKIN' and I had one of those moments we all have: thinking life would be so much easier if we just chronically dipped into the men's section. Luckily, a few looks later, this came out on a female model and my faith in Marc was reaffirmed.

10. Phi

corsets, neutral, straightjacket, edgy, body conscious

Considering my tendency to like anything vaguely involving corsets, Phi was like all of my corset-filled fetish fantasies realized. The danger about going somewhere to try on anything from this collection is that I'd probably be so much in love with it that I'd have to have an Invisibility Cloak to sneak out of the dressing room unnoticed or I'd make a break for the door, which would inevitably fail. *sigh* I swear, I'd probably live in the lace up pants. Don't even get me started about the jeans in all of their metal encrusted glory. The thing that amazes me about this collection is that the corset idea is used so tastefully. Because let's be honest, the idea of a corset can often be taken much too far, yet here it just seems like a really cool, ridiculously rad thing to wear.

And because I think everyone enjoys a particularly excellent example of horrible photoshopping every now and again, here's something I stumbled upon during my NYFW browsing...

I actually didn't think anything this bad could possibly be passed by whoever was editing the photos. And here's the real question...WHY is it edited??

We Won't Have Legs To Stand

2009-09-15T22:29:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone! It's been a busybusybusy past few days! Homework galore. In fact, I'm *subtley* avoiding studying for my first AP US test tomorrow (the rumoured average on this particular test is 62%...the fact that I'm not worried and freaking out about it like my classmates concerns me).

Anywho, today was spent getting worried about a spanish presentation (I swear I can read the language like a pro, but speaking is a whole different story) and wishing I hadn't put my morning tea (earl grey, what else would you expect of me?!) in a Thermos because when I opened it after waiting ALL MORNING for it to cool at 3 in the afternoon, 8 hours after it had originally been steeped, IT WAS STILL STEAMING.
Conclusion: Thermoses are irritatingly effective.

In another effort to avoid getting any work done whatsoever, I flicked on my ever-faithful tivo and proceeded to watch the entirity of The Templar Code which I had recorded the night before. In the past few months I've become utterly addicted to the History Channel...it's starting to be a sickness. You would think that an addiction to the History Channel wouldn't be all that bad, but I highly, highly doubt the historical accuracy of a vast amount of the information they present in their programs. To me, it's like comparing In Touch or an equally horrific tabloid to the New York Times. Both have their biases, but at least the New York Times makes an intelligent time of it, In Touch solely exists to cater to the masses; this, to me, is the sole existence of the History Channel, to appeal to your average Joe the Plumber (hah. okay, don't laugh.) and lure them in with promises of "historical secrets revealed!", not to mention you feel pretty brainy if you're spending your free time watching the History Channel. At least I do. *sigh* Whatever has my life come to?

We're reading Pride and Prejudice in my English Novel class...it's my fifth time reading it. The class continues to draw horrible conclusions and misinterprets everything. I am in agony. Luckily, the Darcy and Elizabth conversational sparring never gets old.

(Dress: F21, Necklace: F21, Boots: vintage)

The pictures were taken by my little brother (who now randomly has an interest in photography? Phase, much.) who is an avid basketball fan. I miss him terribly. Darn boarding schools.

I wore this a few days ago. The dress has got to be one of my new favourite items...I really ought to get a leather vest to edge it up a bit...at least that's my future intention. My apologies for featuring the boots so endlessly, they're just all I really care to be wearing recently. Oh, and if anyone was wondering, the dress is perfectly twirly and fun to skip/spin in...an all important factor to consider when shopping.

Coverage of my personal favourite collections from New York Fashion Week are to follow on Thursday! What have you guys thought of the collections so far?

Until next time.

Fashion's Night Out

2009-09-11T23:11:00.008-04:00

Fashion's Night Out. It happened. And we were there. Just need to say right now....
IT WAS TOTALLY EPIC!!!
This will be a text light post, but no worries, it is PACKED with photos.

The streets were absolutely packed with people, I've never seen so many beautiful people and drool-worthy shoes at one condensed time. It was truly an unbelievable experience full of star-struck moments, wonderful surprises, beautiful clothing, and just all-out LUXURY.
Over the past year, I've really missed it.

Over the course of the evening we spotted/were near/talked to/took pictures with...
Andre Leon Talley, Grace Coddington, Sasha Pivovorova, Iris Strubegger, Kasia Struss, Behati Prinsloo, Sessilee Lopez, Manolo Blahnik, Gail Simmons, Milo Ventimiglia, Coco Rocha, Benny Ninja, Jade (from ANTM), Kate Mulleavy, and various others that we passed but couldn't quite put a finger on who they were...

In case any of you are wondering/haven't figured out already, I hit up NYC with two of my favourite girls in the universe (both of whom have fabulous blogs of their own): Annie and Sylvia

In Prada, our first REAL stop (we were originally duped by Gucci's FAULTY ADVERTISING...it will take me a while to forgive them). The synthetic wolf heads were WONDERFUL. They were modeled after the version from the September Vogue editorial, as was the entire Prada store. Fascinating and beautiful.
And creepy.

GRACE. Probably my most star-struck moment. I just sort of stood in awe, speechless. I just wonder how one woman can be so utterly fabulous.

Grace photo op. Best moment of my life considering I practically worship the woman. DO YOU SEE THE FABULOUS GOING ON?!?!

SASHA. It's amazing how superhuman models seem...almost otherworldly. She was absolutely stunning. Luckily, I plucked up the courage to speak to her unlike with Grace...who I just sort of oggled at...

Bergdorf's was PACKED. It took us 20 minutes at this counter to get FNO T-shirts. This guy was a sweetheart, though, and seemed to know all of the ridiculously well-dressed women.

We accidentally ran into Milo Ventimigilia at Bergdorf's. Ironic seeing as HE'S ONE OF MY FAVOURITE PEOPLE OF THE MALE PERSUASION EVER. I was so excited that I managed to squeeze my way through the throng and snatch a few shots.

Live models in the display cases were a really wonderful idea. In one of the cases we were PRETTY sure the guy was making inappropriate jokes and gestures...but it was amusing nonetheless. Can you imagine how awkward it would be to be one of the models though?

*Tourist stops to look at their display case*
*You blink*
"OH MY GOD, IT'S A REAL PERSON!!!"
*Snaps picture*
*You keep staring forward trying not to be tempted to pick that wedgie that's been bugging you for the past 15 minutes*
*Tourists continue to gawk*

JADE from America's Next Top Model (an ANTM legend who Sylvia adores). Annie and I spotted her and told Sylvia who proceeded to flag her down. What a beautiful "bi-racial butterfly". That moment alone completed Sylvia's life.

Two cool things in this picture. KATE MULLEAVY! and that SUPER DUPER RAD FEATHER HAT. The yarn jacket strikes me as something Susie Bubble would wear...

We finally managed to get a photo with Kate! I would have liked to actually talk to her, but hey, when it's a mob scene you just do what you can.

We're on the top left corner....missed Coco by eight minutes! Darn.

At Tiffany's with our DELICIOUS petit fours and iced coffee. It was the perfect pick-me-up.

One of the three of our's favourite shots of the night. Surprisingly NOT staged. Annie and I were whispering about some....*cough* interestingly rhinestone bedazzled gladiators sandals on the girl next to us...they were....interesting.

Dancing at Modelinia! We were devastated that we didn't have time to get the flip books printed.

Then this afternoon the three of us got together and hosted a small photoshoot featuring the wonderful FNO T-shirts. I should let you guys know that THEY ARE THE MOST COMFORTABLE THINGS IN THE WORLD. Versatile, perfectly slouchy, and just all-over delicious.

Rockin' out. Of course!

"Fierce"

"NINJA!"

Did you go to a Fashion's Night Out anywhere in the world? Where did you go? Who did you see? What did you buy!

Until next time.

The Name of the Game

2009-09-07T16:11:00.004-04:00

The Name of the Game:
black, asphalt, glamourously careless, carelessly glamourous edgy, fresh, bold.

So Let's Cause A Scene; Clap Our Hands and Stomp Our Feet

2009-08-31T17:14:00.003-04:00

Oh hey. So today was the first day of school? What?!
I know, insanity, right? It still hasn't really hit me that the summer is actually OVER. Overall, the day went by pretty uneventfully, except for the discovery that the new lockers that were installed over the summer are FREAKING HUGE. Like....I could sit in them comfortably. That should not be possible. But hey, I'm not complaining! Most of the day, other than the monotonous reading of various course syllabi (= a really, really fun word), was spent being amused by wandering freshmen. They resembled those small hairless dogs that shiver a lot and yap at you if you try to pet them. Frooosshhhh!

Anyways, this is what I wore today, new purchases courtesy of a trip to the Forever 21 in NYC...you know, the unbelievably huge one you could get lost in if you wanted to? Yeah, that one. I have a few stories to tell about that particular day, so I'll save that for a later post.

Oh right, I also got my hair cut. Nothing too dramatic (since picture day is in two days...ergh), simply four inches off, loads of long layers, and long side bangs. Lennon made an encore performance, and my hair came out as beautiful as it had before.

The leather shorts have been something I've been craving for ages and ages and ages. Over the past few months I've fallen quite in love with leather, sequins, and studs. That's about all I want to wear this season.

I only have one question: WHEN did I become such an 80s child???

You Pick the Insects Off Plants, No Time to Think of Consequences

2009-08-26T13:50:00.008-04:00

It's hard to come to terms with the fact that summer is nearing its end. That I won't be able to wake up at 10:30 in the morning, eat breakfast in my PJs on the front stoop, and watch the sun beat down on the wildflowers in our front yard. That the sun will start going down at 5, rather than the much more reasonable 7:30. That I won't be able to run around barefoot all day and catch fireflies with my little brother at night. I'm going to miss it.

(Elena Kalis)

But, against those odds, I'm strangely excited for school. I've always been one of those weirdos that actually enjoys school (except possibly math class, but who's to say the impossible can't happen this year? Pigs will fly!), not to mention during the summer when you don't have your license it's quite difficult to have a social life. I miss all my friends tremendously and gosh darn it, I miss being USEFUL...feeling like I've accomplished something when I go to bed every night. I'm a big fan of knowledge for knowledge's sake, the whole taking five APs just to get into college thing doesn't really appeal to me, I like the appeal of simply LEARNING things in class, not learning them to further myself, exactly. Now I'm rambling. Anyways, I got my class schedule and I've got to say, I'm really, really looking forward to my classes since I was given a lot more choice in picking them out this year.

Analysis (pre-calc)
AP English Language (Semester 1: English Novel, Semester 2: Selected American Authors)
AP Spanish
Child Development
AP U.S. History
Madrigals (fancy name for Select Chorus)
Honors Physics

On top of that I think I'm going to try for an Independent Study in Genetics since it didn't fit in my schedule but I'm extremely interested in it. Huzzah!

SO. In other news: Yesterday I went shopping, a bit of a treat for me since I only let myself spend at a whim every 6 months...it's also quite the feat to drag my mom to the mall, so I was feeling quite accomplished. I went to Victoria's Secret with the intent to spend the 5 gift cards I had discovered the week before.

A Cardinal Rule Of Shopping: if you have loads of gift cards to Victoria's Secret, KNOW HOW MUCH MONEY IS ON THEM.

It seriously took me 15 minutes to check out. I was drawing quite a few irritating stares from others in line and kept casting apologetic glaces their way. Luckily, my cashier was very, very friendly and the gift card fiasco became more of an ordeal that we survived together.

I also made the LONG anticipated stop by Sephora...

(Benefit Bad Gal Lash Mascara, Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion in Sin, Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, Clinique Pore Minimizer, bareMinerals Matte Powder Foundation)

For those of you who still haven't tried the bareMinerals Foundation, GET ON THAT. NOW. The stuff works magic. The Clinique Pore Minimizer was an accidental find from a previous trip to Sephora with my friend who bought it because it was so good. Now I finially have some of my own, no need to mooch off her :-) The Laura Mercier Moisturizer was actually a free gift and I cannot express how much I love it, it's great for under eye use because it's illuminating, thus getting rid of the I-studied-all-night look, rather convenient for this upcoming year. Added bonus, it has SPF 20!

I was recently given two blog awards from the ever so lovely ladies, Tariro and thefatandskinnyonfashion. Shout out to the both of them for their beauuuutiful blogs, and their unbelievable dedication (which we all know is a very important trait in any good blogger). Thank you!

This one goes to Laura, Jayne, and Nana in Los Angeles!

Annnd the ten people this goes to areeee: Manja, Amy, Ruxandra, Kathy, natalie, Jimena, Adela, Adrienne, Claudia, and Sher. You guys are all brilliant.

(to go with the last blog award) Ten Interesting Things About Myself:

1) I'm obsessive about putting on sunscreen. My grandmother has skin cancer and I'm scared to death of getting it myself. Plus, who wouldn't want to have perfect skin at 70?? I know I would.

2) I played the harp for four years when I was younger.

3) I have seven siblings and only one of them is my biological brother.

4) I really, really love going skinny dipping. But then again, who doesn't?

5) I have frighteningly vivid dreams. I often experience them in an out of body type way, so that I see myself acting as a character in my dream...as you can tell, I dream in a very novel-inspired fashion. I can often continue my dreams from night to night.

6) I am a full blown Lord of the Rings fanatic. After reading it in 3rd grade there was really no looking back. However, over the years it's become a less dominant part of my personality (as opposed to in 4th grade when all I wanted to be was an elf) and has become more of a closet obsession.

7) I eat cinnamon sticks. Like...the bark. I KNOW it's very, very strange, but it's a habit I've had since I was little. I normally only do it now when I'm really stressed. Does anyone else have any weird eating habits?

8) This summer I was the 7th person in my camp's 99 year history to earn my NRA ranked Expert in Riflery.

9) I think about my future an awful lot. I've decided I want four children and hypothetically the order would be boy, girl, boy, boy. I would name them David Wesley, Gemma Lynn, James Darcy, and Spencer Chase.

10) I make lists like a fiend. To do lists, What I Want to Buy lists, Favourite Things lists....it goes on and on. My notebooks are littered with random little lists.

Until next time.

P.S. Apparently Karlie Kloss has swine flu??? REALLY hoping that doesn't affect her walking in shows this September...

Seasons Don't Fear the Reaper, Nor the Wind, the Sun, or the Rain.

2009-08-24T21:27:00.000-04:00

Recently I've been loving the look of anything destroyed, dilapidated, or distressed (how's that for alliteration for ya?). With visions of a perfectly decrepit shirt, I set about cutting up one of my dad's old Hanes t-shirts. I have yet to discuss my evolving love affair with v-neck Hanes t-shirts on the blog, but let me assure you, it is long past an obsession, they have become my full blown addiction....to the point where all I want to be doing this fall is prancing around in various styles of Hanes. While watching Pride and Prejudice for the 6.02*10^23 time, I cut this baby up and was quite pleased with the results. In fact, they reminded me specifically of two collections, both of which I love....

(Alexander Wang ready to wear a/w 09, Rodarte ready to wear s/s 09)

Toby is ridiculous, but nonetheless, completely adorable.

(skeleton shirt: DIY, black cami: Aeropostale, grey denim shorts: Forever 21, boots: vintage, bracelet: Forever 21, rings: Mexicali Blues and Target)

Overall, it not only makes me quite tempted to be a skeleton for Halloween, but also makes me wonder what other marvels I could accomplish with scissors and a Hanes t-shirt. Oh, the possibilities!

For now, however, I'm going to hunker down with American Colonies by Alan Taylor (doesn't that just SOUND fun to read??) and await Anna's appearance on Letterman tonight.

Until next time.

Maine Explorations

2009-08-20T21:51:00.007-04:00

It has been far too long, hasn't it? I wish I could say that I was just too busy to think about my beloved corner of the Internet, but truth be told, I'm suffering from the worst creativity block that I've had for a very long time. Being away from the blogging world for two months will do that to you. Ah well, I can only hope that within the following week I'll be bursting with ideas once more.

While taking a break from the blog for the past week, I've been relaxing (ie rushing to get work done for AP US) at our lakehouse up here in Maine (I know, for not living in the state I spend an awful lot of time in Maine, don't I?). Two days ago we ventured out of our secluded little residence on the lake and due to the fact that, while up here, I basically live in denim cutoffs and baggy t-shirts (not really much of an intriguing outfit post, I would think), I decided to do a bit of photojournalism in the vein of The Clothes Horse.

9am

After a relatively early breakfast we began our journey by stopping at the auto shop...something about cylinders? Anyways, I caught this guy using my stealthy accidentally-hold-up-the-camera-and-stare-into-space-while-actually-taking-a-picture technique (little did I know the setting was still on black and white). I was so intent because in all honesty, the man has the most spectacular Maine accent I've ever heard.

10am

Arrived at Popham Beach and immediately decided the first thing to do was climb up the giant mountain. Broke out the killer Spidey moves.

11am

Even though we arrived later in the morning, the mist was still surrounding the islands and I was absolutely enchanted. We walked along the shore for an hour and I reverted to my five year old ways and played about in tidal pools full of seaweed.

12am

We had lunch at an absolutely wonderful little seafood place on the water. The fried haddock was to die for. Delicious.

1am

Then it was on the road again until we reached Bowdoin, where I went on the beginning of what will be an endless list of college campus tours. Even though it was the first, I loved it.

4pm

This puzzle has been the bane of my existence all week. They're right when they say Monet was a genius with colours, it makes this puzzle almost impossible to complete!

5pm

I love the first shot because it actually does remind me of a Monet...the subtle colour, the blurriness....

6pm

First off, I was extremely amused when I figured out that the plate basically matched the pattern of the tablecloth. Second, this blueberry cobbler was the most heavenly thing I've ever tasted.

7pm

With painfully slow shutter speed I was able to make the boat look like it's disappearing...oh how I love DSLRs!

8pm

To cap off a wonderful night we watched the last of the Bourne series. Just have to say right now, Jason Bourne is the hottest thing ever....like actually.

Until next time.

Return, At Last!

2009-08-12T15:32:00.002-04:00

Hello, world! It's good to be back! After seven weeks of complete bliss I am restored and ready to tackle this year! Let me tell you, it feels GOOD to not have to wear a uniform. I just don't know how you girls that go to private/boarding school can handle that. Though in all seriousness, there is just no place on earth more beautiful than Lake Sebago. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

There's more posting to follow, but I've got to get around to unpacking and finishing up summer course work.
I love you all, and I'm glad to be back!!!

We Don't Care About The Old Folks Talkin' 'Bout The Old Style.

2009-08-09T02:04:00.001-04:00

I'll be the first to admit it, those rare times when fashion meets whimsy and pure creative indulgence are truly my favourite moments. No advert does as good a job embodying that nature as the Lanvin spread from all those months ago. Yes, they're ancient (in terms of fashion dates) but still as lovable and indulgent as ever...which I love.

I'd love to see fashion run with this idea of child-like entertainment and curiousity. The contrast Lanvin creates with it's ruffled and flowing dresses to the old school pixels of Pacman are pure immaturity at its best, which is only the way things should ever be.

Note: I'll be home on the 11th! My next post will be DIRECTLY FROM ME and NOT SCHEDULED. Hurray! I'll have missed you all immensely.

Please Just Take These Photos From My Hands

2009-08-04T08:21:00.000-04:00

Good photography will never be overrated. That is the legacy of Richard Avedon. From the most knowledgeable fashion lover to those who live under a rock, everyone recognizes his images, they're iconic in the best sense of the word. There's something so intriguing and exotic about his shots, they're dynamic enough to make you feel as if you're a part of the photograph and engaging enough to allow you to be content simply marveling at each photograph. There is a serenity, an inexplicable ease to everything he shoots. Looking at his body of work reminds me of the utter beauty that can be found in classic black and white film photograhs.

I'm Writing Books Through Letters, That I'm Sure You'll Never Read.

2009-07-28T01:37:00.000-04:00

Summer is when I usually try to catch up on my reading that's been building up over the busy school year...it's a time when I can take on some lighter pleasure reading and leave the textbooks in a corner for a few weeks. Here's a little glimpse of what was on my Summer 2009 reading list looks like.

1) The Time Traveler's Wife

2) Water For Elephants

3) Reading Lolita In Tehran

4) The Kite Runner

5) Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

6) The Memory Keeper's Daughter

7) The Pillars of the Earth

8) The Book Thief

9) Tuesdays With Morrie

10) Les Miserables

11) Vanity Fair

12) The Queen's Fool

13) Middlesex

14) Farenheit 451

15) 1984

Have you read anything really fabulous lately?

I'm Gonna Soak Up The Sun (In My Tacky Four Dollar Tourist Print Dress, DON'T MESS)

2009-07-23T10:11:00.001-04:00

Around the last few days of school I went thrifting with Annie, Sylvia, and Emily. Though I came away with quite a few treasures, this is all I had time to DIY/photograph before I left.

Update for those who missed it: I'm currently at camp until August 11th

Anyways, while going through the racks and racks of cheesy old dresses, I came upon..*breath of anticipation*..another cheesy old dress (this is, of course, before I took to it with scissors, needle, and thread like a possessed woman). Imagine, if you will, a shapeless cotton maxi dress with the most outlandish and outdated print imagineable. That was the dress I bought for $4. However, I had a vision. I was on a mission to make the narsty thing wearable. In my first legitimate needle and thread DIY, I was able to cut off the horrible excess fabric and hem like mad. This was the result:

The print is like one you would find sported by the tourist of your worst nightmare (the loud, sunburned, overweight type), like a resort collection gone horribly horribly awry. But regardless (slap me here if you think it fitting), I LOVE it. I adore the tacky steam boats, Hawaiian coastlines, flying fish (yes, the print really does have flying fish), oriental bridges, and the like. It amuses me that something that really ought to be so wrong can prove to be so right. But fashion does that to you, I suppose. It's the best when it has a sense of humour.

Working the steamboats like nobody's business, you know it!

(dress: thrifted; belt: thrifted; bows: Forever 21; shoes: Payless; lipstick: Revlon)

And of course you can never go wrong with a little summery neon!

A Friendly Public Announcement

2009-07-18T11:10:00.000-04:00

WHAT ARE YOU DOING READING THIS?! SHUT OFF THE COMPUTER AND GET YOURSELF OUTSIDE. ENJOY THE SUMMER SUN WHILE IT'S STILL HERE. BE WILD, BE SILLY, BE JOYFUL, THAT'S WHAT SUMMER IS FOR!

With all my love,
EMMY

*note: WEAR SUNSCREEN OR I WILL PERSONALLY COME HUNT YOU DOWN. YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE.

Just in case you need a little more motivation...or you're in a place currently being slammed by winter (I feel for you guys, I really really do.)...

Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend (But Not Really.)

2009-07-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

My weakness for quirky jewelry is not a novel concept, however it unfortunately remains unquenched. With that in idea in mind, I set out to satisfy my craving with a little bit of digging around on the 'net.

I can't even begin to tell you how long I've been lusting after this bracelet. As a shooter myself (yes, I'm a girl, and yes, I can shoot a 22 caliber rifle, and YES I've almost got my expert ranking...SO CLOSEsouhwjsrisfnjl....continuing on..), I'd really love something as insanely awesome as this to express my love of the sport (yes, riflery is a competitive sport and NO I don't shoot animals, that's cruel and NO I don't support the NRA's movement to allow powerful guns to be sold to citizens...but that's opening a whole other can of worms...). I can almost imagine how delightful it would be to hear the bullet casings jingle with the flick of my wrist. *sigh* Anyone got a spare $116 lying around? Thought not.

SCRABBLE NECKLACE? Yes please, I'm game! It makes me kind of sad that if I was to get an E it would only be worth one point...ah well, these are adorable nonetheless.

The name of Leviticus Jewelry should not be unfamiliar as it's been popping up on certain blogs, mentioned mostly for their blogger giveaways. Ever since that time, I've been absolutely stalking their merchandise and I've got to say, it's all completely brilliant. This nautical piece is particularly drawing my eye. I love the chunky charms and the chain switch on the left side.

This bracelet from Etsy member lola19 is the epitome of feminine romanticism. Which means to me, it is pure perfection.

It's No Secret, I'm A Hopelessly Romantic Bookworm.

2009-07-08T23:36:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I was rooting around in my mom's old books and came across a goldmine: her college English books. Score. Though she nabbed a few that she was sentimental about, I eventually came away with twenty new books! Anthologies galore! Quite exciting.

from left to right: Shakespeare Anthology, Romantic Poetry Anthology, East of Eden, American Literature Anthology, Norton Anthology #1, Norton Anthology #2, The Literature of Renaissance England, T.S. Eliot Collected Poems, The Poetry of Robert Frost, From Dawn to Decadence: 500 Years of Western Cultural Life, Le Morte D'Arthur vol. 1, Le Morte D'Arthur vol. 2, The History of the Kings of Britain, John Donne: Poetry and Prose, Ben Johnson Poems, Parzival, The Sun Also Rises, The Time Machine, The Fountainhead

I'll tell you, it's enough to satisfy my thirst for British literature for a lifetime....but not :-)

The tome I'm most interested to begin is the textbook of Romantic poetry, as that is one of my very favourite periods of time in history. There's something so appealing about losing oneself in emotion and describing something so intricate as nature. I was also extremely excited to come across her Shakespeare anthology because that means I won't have to spend a fortune to buy all the plays myself!

Speaking of the Romantics, I find nothing more romantic (both physically and sartorially speaking) than this editorial from Teen Vogue. It's always been one of my favourites and it's quite popular in the fashion blogosphere, but I'll share nonetheless because really, it never gets old. After all, what's more romantic than exploring Venice in lace and ruffles with a heart-breakingly attractive guy on your arm?

Equation for the Inner Romantic:
Lacy, ruffled vintage dress + huge amounts of chain jewelry + unnaturally attractive boy + Venice= INSANT ROMANCE

Try that out and tell me how it goes.

There's Never A Wish Better Than This When You Only Got 100 Years To Live

2009-07-03T22:22:00.000-04:00

A lot can happen over the course of one school year. Time goes by so fast when we don't stop to appreciate our lives, even the smallest of things. In fact, I often find it's the small things (like listening to my ipod while looking out the window on the morning bus ride to school) that I love the most, as it is those things that restore my enthusiasm for life itself. With that in mind, I've made a list of 100 things I did this school year. As I wrote this I realized more and more that even though all of these fabulous things happened this year, it is the small things like going star gazing and making a new friend that I cherish the most. I would suggest doing this yourself, an exercise like this is more of a self-examination than anything else. It shows what's important to you. So without further ado (and in no particular order)...

Things I've Done/Thought/Seen This Past Year

1) Figured out how to play Wii Tennis successfully
2) Gotten a new perfume, hated it, then fell in love
3) Taken pictures with a polaroid camera
4) Learned it's pronounced La-kwah, not La-croy (I periodically butcher the french language...)
5) Discovered my favourite event in history: the Defenestration of Prague
6) Had a kiss like the ones in the movies
7) Fallen in love with the Romantic period
8) Found God
9) Found a true friend
10) Fallen in love and out of it

11) Experimented with purple eyeshadow
12) Sung in front of an audience
13) Went zip lining in the jungles of Costa Rica
14) Went star gazing
15) Petted a sea turtle
16) Rediscovered the beauty of artwork by Monet
17) Caught a fish, cooked it, and ate it all in the same day
18) Played and won a game of Manhunt
19) Climbed a tree
20) Trespassed on someone else's property

21) Hit someone in the face with a tennis ball (oops)
22) Procrastinated on an essay until 3 hours before it was due, written it, recieved an A
23) Been brought to tears by music
24) Reread all 7 Harry Potter books
25) Slept under the stars in a hammock
26) Blow dryed a friend's AP Euro textbook for 2 hours after it blew (yes, the textbook WAS BLOWN by the wind) into a lake
27) Screamed until I was hoarse
28) Watched Twilight online and was severely underwhelmed
29) Bargained for a meal
30) Watched Coldplay perform 10 feet away from me

31) Fed cats, goats, water buffalo, sheep, and camels
32) Saw llamas having sex
33) Gone parasailing
34) Made a ridiculous amount of sarcastic comments
35) More than I ever wanted to about European History...and enjoyed it
36) Cried in front of a friend
37) Stayed up late just to finish a book
38) Had a powerful conversation about pressure, stress, anorexia, suicide, and God while comforting someone
39) Memorized a poem in another language
40) Played high risk taboo with my family

41) Thought about my future and my big dreams
42) Thought about the end of the world
43) Decided the (hypothetical) names of my 4 children (David Wesley, Gemma Lynne, James Darcy, and Spencer Chase...hollacattt)
44) Said goodbye to someone I loved
45) Took care of a balloon "baby" for a night without killing it....it popped the next morning
46) Drank unhealthy amounts of Earl Grey tea
47) Helped my guy friends dress in glam rock attire
48) Went to my first prom
49) Helped someone crowd surf

50) Seen one of my guy friends wear my skinny jeans
51) Been at the center of a mosh pit
52) Driven a boat
53) Driven a car without my permit
54) ....then got my permit
55) Figured out the reason for Mac obsession by giving in and buying one
56) Watched my first full game of rugby on TV
57) Officially decided I am going to try to be drug-free all my life
58) Felt proud of my country for once come election day
59) Worn high heels to school...twice
60) Went thrift shopping for the first time ever

61) Listened to somebody's life story
62) Recorded my voice for the first time
63) Tried goat cheese and fell in love
64) Discovered that happiness and compassion are the two most important traits to aim for in life
65) Cried while reading the last chapter of A Tale of Two Cities
66) Gained new respect for the Olsens after reading Influence
67) Voted for the first time for American Idol
68) Missed somebody terribly
69) Decorated someone's entire hand and foot with doodles
70) Went to the U.S. Open

71) Got my first characature drawn
72) Fought for my beliefs
73) Wrote a poem no one will ever read
74) Was gifted a Canon DSLR and consequentely drove my friends crazy with picture taking
75) Discovered my weakness for 90s bubblegum pop (because really, who DOESN'T love Britney and the Backstreet Boys??)
76) Learned self-restraint while shopping (financial scares will do that to you)
77) Had a banquet at lunch one day for Classy Wednesday (including candlesticks)
78) Had an out of body experience
79) Became somewhat competent in the ways of waterskiing
80) Ate the best chocolate covered Belgian waffle ever

81) Fell in love with Shakespeare
82) Went skiing for the first time in 3 years
83) Got back in touch with my inner child
84) Played laser tag
85) Came to understand why people love opera so much
86) Went surfing
87) Laughed until I cried
88) Talked to one person straight from 9:30 PM to 4:45 AM
89) Went sledding and built a snow fort
90) Realized that I am a capable self advocate

91) Kept my new year's resolution
92) Danced down a crowded street
93) Became a Dramione fangirl
94) Read a book that changed the way I think about things
95) Sort of learned to throw a frisbee
96) Laid in bed for hours on a Saturday morning just thinking about things
97) Did karaoke on a cruise ship for the first time
98) Sang alto for the first time ever
99) Watched the Rocky Horror Picture Show too many times to count
100) Learned a lot about myself

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What have you done this past year?

Gaspard, Take Me Away.

2009-06-28T21:27:00.000-04:00

With men's fashion week going on around the globe, oggling at pretty boys becomes quite the passtime.

While this eye candy from Jak and Jil is great, I've got to pause to introduce one of the most attractive guys out there, Gaspard Ulliel. I've been meaning to talk to him on the blog for som time now, and I know to some of you he's old news but LET ME HAVE MY MOMENT, OKAY?! Kthnx.

Anyways, he's got this wonderful boyish look that I absolutely love and his smile is positively adorable. Not to mention he's mastered the tousled I-just-got-back-from-running-about-during-a-windstorm hair look. His looks have scored him roles in A Very Long Engagement and Hannibel Rising (and a load of other French films) and he's also been the face of Longchamp alon with Kate Moss. Behold, the face of an angel:

Edward Cullen, anyone? I always though he'd fit the role much better than Pattinson.

Is it weird that I actually want to steal his entire outfit? Probably.

I'm Sailing Away...

2009-06-23T17:19:00.000-04:00

This'll be the last time I actually write to you all for quite some time, I'm going to my last summer at camp for the next seven weeks! Never fear, I won't leave you completely without a fix: there'll be scheduled posts popping up every few days though some of them might be a little uncharacteristically short. I'm so sorry I've been so horribly behind on returning your lovely comments but these past few days have been a flurry of parties and preparations for camp.

Though I'm sad to abandon the blog for a while, I'm too excited to even begin to explain how pumped I am for the next seven weeks. It will be my seventh and final year as a camper at Camp Wawenock, my home away from home. Since there's a technology ban (including computers, ipods, and cell phones) I'll be completely unplugged, something I'm actually looking forward to. They've also implemented a new rule where fashion/teen magazines are not allowed because they present an "unhealthy" attitude towards health and social interactions (please, there's so much more value in fashion than the ridiculously skinny models) so I'll also be without a fashion outlet (AH!). Wish me luck with that. Hopefully I'll be able to hone my fashion illustration skills to make up for the lack of editorials.

Anyways, I'll have my friends from around the globe and the most beautiful sunsets in the world to cherish for these next seven weeks, so I'm perfectly happy!

Isn't that as picturesque as it gets?
I think so.

To See The Summer Sky Is Poetry.

2009-06-21T17:30:00.001-04:00

First off, Happy Father's Day! Go hug your Dad, he deserves it.

The daddy and me.

Well. It has been quite a busy few days around here! Pictures will be posted tomorrow as I forgot my camera usb cord at my mom's house (oops...), but I'm sure you'll all forgive me as I've got a lovely summer-y editorial to show you!

To see the Summer Sky
Is Poetry, though never in a Book it lie --
True Poems flee --
by Emily Dickinson

A Summer Playlist For The Ridiculous Person
(a blend of obnoxious 80s and 90s staples and feel good make you want to belt 'em out summer tunes ready-made for road trips with friends, partying under the sun, and singing along to as loud as you possibly can)

1. Life In Technicolor II by Coldplay
2. Kids by MGMT
3. Mrs. Potter's Lullaby by Counting Crows
4. (Jenny) 867-5309 by Tommy Tutone
(I find it really funny that the lady whose number this was had to change it because she got so many calls from people listening to this song)
5. Larger Than Life by Backstreet Boys
6. The Nosebleed Section by Hilltop Hoods
7. Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations
8. Are You Gonna Be My Girl? by Jet
9. Juliet by LMNT
(aka the song that will ALWAYS, ALWAYS make me feel better, gotta love that sugary 90s pop, right?)
10. Don't Stop Believin' by Glee
11. Beat It by Michael Jackson
12. Your Love by The Outfield
13. Don't Stop Me Now by Queen
14. Time To Pretend by MGMT
15. Touch the Sky by Kanye West
16. Rains In Asia by Jump Little Children
(the single-most perfect summer song)
17. Crooked Teeth by Death Cab for Cutie
18. Escape by Enrique Iglesias
(belt this one for me, please.)
19. Wannabe by Spice Girls
20. Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand
21. Rainy Day by Coldplay
22. Stacy's Mom by Fountains of Wayne
23. Blue (Da Ba Dee) by Eiffel 65
(know all the lyrics? I DO.)
24. Twist and Shout by The Beatles
(pull a Ferris Bueller on this one, PLEASE.)
25. Mr. Jones by Counting Crows
26. Sweet Dreams Are Made Of Seven Nation Army by DJ Poly
27. September by Earth, Wind, & Fire
28. The First Single by The Format
29. Grace Kelly by MIKA
30. Hangin' Around by Counting Crows

(vogue uk, may 2006)

waking up as the sun streams through your shades, sand between your toes, freckles dotting your cheeks, diving headfirst into waves, closing your eyes and feeling the sun's warmth, running through a sprinkler in your bathing suit, cracking out the slip n' slide, listening to the drone of bees in a garden, eating obscene amounts of watermelon, salty sea breeze, watching the clouds roll by, reading beneath the shade of your favourite tree, driving around with your friends with the radio volume as high as it will go, sun showers, afternoon bbq's, the quiet conversations of crickets as you fall asleep, catching the first firefly of the season, star-gazing.
THIS IS SUMMER.

Summertime, And The Living Is Easy...

2009-06-19T22:28:00.004-04:00

Quickie tonight as it we're having my dad's 50th birthday party tonight! This is all I want to be wearing this summer. Only after I made it did I realize that it's quite similar to the Dries Van Noten a/w 09 colour scheme. Oh, perfection!

Remind me later that I need to get my hands on a grey crop top. They're my new obsession.

As for the party, 20 relatives in town, retro dance mix, and a party tent will make for a raucous evening. And I've got to say, my balloon arrangements are pretty beastly.

Better post tomorrow! I've got so much to show you guys after such long break!

P.S. Anyone know how to make Polyvore sets non blurry when posted on a blog?

When It Rains In Asia It Makes Her Feel This Way.

2009-06-12T12:31:00.000-04:00

It's so near the end of the school year it's actually become a chore to sit in my desk for 45 minutes until the next class. Though looking back I really had some wonderful teachers this year that I was extremely lucky to have, I WANT OUT OF SCHOOL. Sure I love learning and being knowledgeable and such, but I'm at my breaking point and I need a good long 9 week break from it all. Summer come faster?...please? Here's what my self imposed schedule looks like for the next week:

Saturday: study for Algebra final as long as sanity permits.
Sunday: skip church (blehh, sad.) and study chemistry until I start bleeding out my eyes.
Monday: wake up, drink an obscene amount of earl grey tea, got to a completely useless half day of school, present a powerpoint on bipolar disorder for health final and organize choral music for women's choir "final", get home, study for math, avoid getting distracted by shiny objects at all costs.
Tuesday: ditto morning routine to Monday, take World Literature final (I figured out that I could fail it and still have a 95% for my semester grade so I'm not really concerned....especially because I know I won't fail it...), ALGEBRA FINAL *dun dun dunnn* *9th ring of hell opens*, after finishing do a mini celebratory dance in the midst of the other test takers, get home, study like mad for chemisty.
Wednesday: ditto..., present 15 minute newscast videos for spanish final, CHEM FINAL (aka the death of all things right and good in the world...wait...*attempts positive outlook*), dance all the way home because I have no more finals!
Thursday: get to school late because of the AP Euro class free during the testing period (hollacat!), go to choir rehearsal and then music department party! (hollacat x2!), do something end of year-ish.

(I'm assuming that over the whole course of these days I'll be signing an inhumane amount of yearbooks)

Anyways, enough about my so-called life.

I was cleaning my room out a bit yesterday and came across some of my old wardrobe from around age 5-7 which included traditional ensembles from both Bali and India. Sadly, I've grown out of the Balinese dancing outfit (truly, truly tragic, the thing is gorgeous), it looks somewhat like this without the elaborate headdress...

I've also grown out of my Indianwear (also a shame because the mirror embroidered fabric is just beautiful), the one thing I was able to scrounge up that would be of use was a wonderful safron hued Indian mirror embroidered wrap/shawl/whatever you really feel like using it for because it's so pretty thing. Needless to say I had quite the entertaining time de-stressing by prancing about our yard in it for a few minutes today.

The colour just slays me. I've got to say, the colours used in Asian clothing are hands down the most breatakingly gorgeous. We westerners have gotten much too accustomed to black.

I also DIYed a crop top the other day because I've been dying to have one but figured making one of my own would be a heck of a lot easier than buying one. This was originally a long sleeved shirt on the looser side then *snip, snip*, we have a crop top. It's not rocket science, guys, I promise.

This last photo reminded me of this absolutely tragically stunning photo from TIME of the afghan refugee, I'd expect you've all read the story so I won't delve further.

Her eyes are haunting. Mona Lisa 2.0...though more upsetting.

Mmmm sun. Though I can't stress enough the importance of sunblock, guys. A tan is not worth the consequences later in life. I've seen them for myself on my grandmother and it's not pretty, so WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN, if only for me.

Twirly skirts are much too fun....even if they're heavy velvet and it feels like 95 degrees out in the sun. Also, Thursday Styles this week was interesting...I especially loved those front page sunglasses. I like how you can interpret a ton of different things from that particular photo. Go wild.

It was sunny and Toby was smiling goofily as my mother admonished him...

The hornet hive my mom claimed to "spray tomorrow" and has still not been sprayed. Oh, joy. It is beautiful, though.

That's about all for now, I'm in need of serious sleep to prep myself for the insane study session that tomorrow is sure to be.

Am I daunted?

Yes.

Rains In Asia by Jump Little Children (my soundtrack at the moment...so happy and summer-y)

Good-bye to Clocks Ticking, and Mama's Sunflowers.

2009-06-08T18:42:00.000-04:00

*Holds out hand tentatively for a universal reader slap*
I've been a very bad blogger indeed, at least I feel like I have as I've had the entire weekend doing almost NOTHING. It was just one of those necessary lazy weekends where I couldn't even draw enough inspiration to blog...rail at me all you'd like!

Anywho, as I'd LIKE to skip the railing against me bit, onto a few other things!

As far as cruise collections go, to avoid beating the subject to death I'll do some quick reviews on a few of my personal favourite resort moments, it'll be short and sweet, I promise (ie what the nurse tries to tell me at the doctor before STABBING ME WITH A NEEDLE *shudders*). Plus, to me, no other collection held a candle to the brilliance of Karl a few weeks ago.

The prints at Erdem are all I want to be wearing ever again. They're like some weird fusion of intergalactic, crystals, and flowers...and I like it that way.

Giant Minnie Mouse bows at DVF? Okay, I'm game.

Ah, Thakoon. Well played sir, well played. We've got the crazy tropical colours I love oh so much, that wonderful (WONDERFUL) black and white dye print that I adore (I repeat, ADORE), the slouchy trousers and sheer top look that I've literally been dying to try yet haven't BECAUSE I CAN'T FIND TROUSERS (FML moment), AND nudes which have fast been growing on me. So much love in one collection here. While Marc Jacobs used the wild patterns as well (and believe me, I really liked the retro feel to his collection), Thakoon just captures it in more of a way that I feel is both more wearable and more ME.
*MObama, show some more Thakoon love for us, will ya?

Alexander Wang strayed a bit from his edgier side for his resort collection and I love him for it. The collection itself actually reminded me of Gap when I used to actually really LIKE Gap, all-American and effortless. That holey sweater is calling my name and that last look, the jacket is delicious ....I would sell my soul for the ability to look that casually chic all day long.

Speaking of pacts with the Devil (kind of), in my World Literature class we're doing a unit called the Devil in literature and I LOVE IT. Analyzing evil is almost frighteningly entertaining. Plus, how could you ever go wrong with Paradise Lost (MILTON, MY LOVE) and Dante's Inferno?

Oh, I should probably admit this now as it'll probably slip out later. I blame my failing to be an assiduous blogger this weekend on Harry Potter fanfiction. It's unfairly addicting. Plus, it's the only way I can get my proper fix of Dramione as it never happened in the books....
**I know it would have never happened in the books, I love Ron and Hermione together but Draco and Hermione is just strangely intriguing. It's also interesting seeing other people's takes on how that relationship would go down...

I'll stop now.
Continuing on to more normal things...

Last month I got an account on Twitter and in the past week I've been fiddling around with it more and more and I'm here to say that my goodness is it addictive. Who knew status updates could be so entertaining?
PSSSTT, I KNOW YOU'RE ALL GOING TO FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER NOW, RIGHT?
Right. Thought so.

During my Twitter escapades I stumbled across Karl Lagerfeld's account. Oh my, words cannot express how much I love that man, but he can express an awful lot...

"Chanel is an institution, and you have to treat an institution like a whore – and then you get something out of her."

"Loving someone is fine, but they have to love you back or it doesn’t work."

"I only wear the latest thing. It's my job."

"I have no scene. I go everywhere. I adapt."

"If I read too much or know too much it's not because I want to talk about it, it's only because it's interesting for me."

"Success nullifies. You then have to do it again, preferably differently."

"Guilty feelings about clothes are totally unnecessary. A lot of people earn their living by making clothes, so you should never feel bad."

(above italicized statements from Karl Lagerfeld's Twitter page)

He makes me laugh. And think.

In approximately two hours I've got an audition for our school's fall play, Our Town. First off, I find it extremely creepy that my brother and I share the names of two of the play's main characters: Emily and George. WEIRD, RIGHT? Secondly, I finally decided on my monologue late last night after searching forever online for something relatively decent. Then when I DID find something relatively decent, it didn't include everything I wanted. Searching for monologues on the Internet is awfully pesky, let me tell you. Anyways, I've finally decided to go with Emily's farewell speech at the very end of the play. I know it's generic, but I think it's relevant and thought-provoking and therefore I find it more interesting, allowing me to do it the best justice that I can.
*Crosses fingers for a call-back*
Wish me luck!

I can't bear it. They're so young and beautiful. Why did they ever have to get old? Mama, I'm here. I'm grown up. I love you all, everything. - I can't look at everything hard enough.

Oh, Mama, just look at me one minute as though you really saw me. Mama, fourteen years have gone by. I'm dead. You're a grandmother, Mama. I married George Gibbs, Mama. Wally's dead, too. Mama, his appendix burst on a camping trip to North Conway. We felt just terrible about it - don't you remember? But, just for a moment now we're all together. Mama, just for a moment we're happy. Let's look at one another.

I can't. I can't go on. It goes so fast. We don't have time to look at one another. I didn't realize. So all that was going on and we never noticed. Take me back -- up the hill -- to my grave. But first: Wait! One more look. Good-bye , Good-bye world. Good-bye, Grover's Corners....Mama and Papa. Good-bye to clocks ticking....and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new ironed dresses and hot baths....and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth,you are too wonderful for anybody to realize you. Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it--every, every minute?

At this point I've really got to get myself away from the computer, I've got a math and chemistry review packet to complete, The Devil and Daniel Webster to read (because now you know how I love that stuff...), and a monologue to memorize by 8 tonight. Huzzah!

P.S. Expect me to be busy for the next few days, finals are closing in fast....only a week away! *Gulp*

The Mood. Five. Summer Skin.

2009-06-04T18:05:00.000-04:00

I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends

2009-06-01T22:00:00.002-04:00

Yesterday we had a birthday in the house! It was my (only blood-related) brother's BIG 13! I'm still kind of in shock that he's a teenager...can't get a grasp on it at all!

These circus animal pastry decorations have been gracing my and my brother's birthday cakes since the beginning of time. My personal favourite was always the elephant. One future goal in my life: nab these from my mom when I start having kids to start the tradition with my own family...she's sure to put up a fight, mother sentimentality (you know how it is), but I shall prevail!

Beware: Upcoming food porn...

What's this you ask?
I scoff at your ignorance!
It is Zebra Pudding, of course (also fondly referred to as Black-and-White-and-Yummy-All-Over by my immediate family. I'm pretty sure the extended family made up the name "Zebra Pudding though...)! This little known delectable treat has long been the traditional birthday pastry-type-thing in our family and I thought I'd share the recipe with you lot so that the WHOLE WORLD may know the wonderful scrumptiousness that is Zebra Pudding.

1. Whip a carton of heavy whipping cream with a mixer on high for a good 2-3 minutes, at least until it resembles whipped cream.
2. Add as much vanilla to the whipped cream as seems reasonable...I always add loads!
3. Enthusiastically rip open your box of Nabisco Famous Chocolate Wafers. Eat One.
*Warning: These delicious little things are practically impossible to find, it's a miracle they're stocked at our supermarket, but THIS is what they look like, just so you can be on the lookout.
4. With a knife, smother one side of a cookie in whipped cream and begin to assemble a row of cookies with whipped cream in between, cover the entire log in whipped cream once it is assembled.
5. Put in freezer for about 3 hours.
6. Cut cake and VIOLA. Heaven on earth.

So after doing a little research I discovered that other people DO know of the sacred good-ness of B & W & YAO...for more information click here and here....apparently you Aussie's call the stuff chocolate ripple cake? Another common name is "Icebox Cake". I feel less special now...

Anyways, on to today. You know that day near the end of the year when you realize, "OH FRICK FINALS ARE SOON AND I KNOW NOTHING!"? Basically my day in a nutshell. Other than the stress and the fact that my World Literature teacher was wearing this bizarre chiffon paisley poncho that resembled an amoeba, the rest of the day passed quite uneventfully.

I was tagged yesterday by my beloved Annie to complete her Closet Awards tag, and let me tell you, it was bloody IMPOSSIBLE to pick ten items. My awards are also a bit off as I only had access to half my wardrobe since the other half lives at my dad's house. But without further ado...

Pretty Exquisite Closet Awards

The Golden Oldie Award

(vintage)

I obtained these shoes (what I fondly refer to as "the pirate boots") after dressing up as a pirate one Halloween in 7th grade from none other than my mother's closet. She bought them when she was my age (so we're talking early 70s here) and I like to think she appreciates that I actually approve of something from her closet whenever I wear them...plus I just get a lot of satisfaction walking about and feeling like a pirate all day.

"...and really bad eggs, drink up me hearties, yo ho!"
I'm cool.

The Summer Staple Award

(Urban Outfitters)

After wearing this today, there's no doubt about it, I'll be wearing this all summer long. Sheer, loose, and unimaginably soft, it's all I want to be wearing to endure those intense summer heat waves.

The Best Colour Award

(Unknown, most likely some random department store)

This shirt was actually a slow grower for me, when I first received it as a gift from my mom, I had no idea how I could possibly pull off what I considered to be the "pukey colour". But then something clicked and I fell in love...the rest is history. I'm extremely excited to play around with this this coming fall in order to ease my way into the statement shoulder trend.

The Most Versatile Award

(H&M)

This shirt receives the award simply because I could wear it with ANYTHING in my wardrobe, add a chunky necklace and be totally happy about the way I look. It's simple in the way I want it to be, and the scoop back is the perfect amount of the unexpected for me. I used to wear a flower pin in my hair with this all the time, but sadly I lost the flower so now I can't go prancing about pretending to be a ballerina. I'm in despair.

The Most Loved Tee Award

(Urban Outfitters)

I'll be the first to admit it, I was never a t shirt type of lass. I avoided v-necks in particular. With the new arrival of this t from my Urban Outfitters Package of Wonders, I'm eating my words. I never want to take it off...ever.

The Not-So-Secret Obsession Award

...Just kidding...but not really.

My love affair with this skirt started in February on my first venture to Urban Outfitters (I think one thing we've all learned from this is that I shop at UO way too much for my own good...) with Annie. We were in DC at the time for winter break and she lifted it off a shelf and said, "Oh, I kind of like this." From then on in I had to have it. Now I'm tempted to wear it nearly everyday since it matches with an absurd amount of shirts considering its purple and printed. It is the love of my life.

The Worth The Hefty Sum Award

(Jonathan Sauders for Target)

I spotted these pants on a random outing to Target to help my mom search for some cheap plates. While normally I let these things go thinking I'll buy it and then never wear it, I just couldn't let these go, even though it was the most I've ever spent on pants. Some of you may scoff when I say they were $68, but for me that's a load of money to be shelling out for one article of clothing. Let me just say now, SO WORTH IT. You know that value per wear calculator you always read about in shopping advice articles? These are the epitome of that. I love the silk detailing, and always like to hear what people relate the pants to most...I've heard military, tuxedo, and equestrian...people's different interpretations of one piece are amusing.

The Holy Grail of Impulse Buys Award

(Dug up at TJ Maxx some while ago)

It's red, plastic, and it was on sale. I love my raincoat with a passion and it was the single best impulse buy ever. It received many a critical eye from my friends when I'm bought it, and though sometimes I wonder what the heck drove me to want to possess it so badly, I still love it to death. Even though it's slightly reminiscent of a stripper coat, I DON'T CARE, it's bright and wonderful and (surprisingly) warm!

The Showstopper

(Loehmann's)

This is the single best dress I've ever bought. It's a statement piece for sure and I like it that way. The sheath cut is perfect and it fits me like a glove, it's also hard to not fall in love with that ridiculously wild print pattern. The accents at the neck and the bottom of the dress are also an added bonus to a piece that embodies "showstopper" with every sense of the word.

The Signature

I had to do it. They're boring as anything, but I'd really be nowhere without my beloved grey wash skinny jeans.

And now, to spread the joy, I eagerly await seeing what awards you guys give the most-loved items in your closet!
I tag:
Ania from Lace and Cake
Shin from Fashion Cappuccino
Andrea from Life In Technicolor
Georgiana from Chasing Vulpecula
annddd
The Stylish Wanderer

I also recently received an award from my darling Is

“These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated.”

“Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

I pass it on to EVERYONE who reads this because really, you guys are fantastic. I've loved blogging so much because I've been able to express all of my ideas and best yet, hear yours!
91 comments on the last post? Seriously guys, I love you. You all brighten my days.
*BIG COMMUNAL HUG*

Title: With A Little Help From My Friends by The Beatles

I Thought Of You And Where You'd Gone...And The World Spins Madly On.

2009-05-30T17:10:00.001-04:00

Hello weekend and hello sunshine! Yesterday was a brilliant start to a much needed weekend. We gathered at Jess's house for good food, good time, and good movies. Those of us that arrived early were initially planning to watch Labyrinth (because really, who doesn't love David Bowie?)

Instead, though, we ended up playing with a Buddha board (SO MUCH FUN.) and oggling her secondhand books from the 19th century (including a beautiful little copy of A Midsummer Night's Dream translated in french). Seven more party-goer arrivals and a potluck dinner (in which I managed to consume 5 chocolate chip pancakes and 2 peanut butter cookies) later, we all sat down for the main event: The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which after my 6th time seeing it, I find funnier than ever before. My friends have come to a consensus that I'm like Janet, which I find amusing.

Today was spent reading and relaxing on the porch, sitting and listening to the chorus of bird calls, and becoming intoxicated by the heady aroma of all the flowers in our yard. Heavenly.

Much to my delight, that package of Urban Outfitters goodies that I was talking about arrived the other day. Of the things that I bought (which will all be popping up on here in the coming week or so) was this wonderful tank top that I got in both grey and white. It's sheer, loose, and extremely versatile, perfect for enduring the summer heat or layering during the winter. I'm really excited to experiment with it, though today I kept it simple just by knotting the asymmetrical hem.

Apologies in advance for the massive amount of pictures...it was just one of those perfect-picture taking days, when the light is perfect and the self-timer is cooperating.

(shirt- Urban Outfitters; shorts- Forever 21; necklace- Forever 21)

At around 11 this morning I just got that feeling of utter bliss that you get when you feel like you belong somewhere, when you feel like everything is working in harmony and you're there to witness its beauty. I thought I should record it for you guys...

The birds, the silver lined clouds, the light, the gentle wind, the trees....*sigh*

Title: World Spins Madly On by The Weepies

The Bullets Fly Over My Head, Just Like the Words That You've Said.

2009-05-28T12:14:00.000-04:00

Against all odds, at some point in time, words can be tiresome....particularly today.

*Note the Harry Potter poster, it was my eight year old self's pride and joy, product of my victory in my 3rd grade class's spelling bee. PWN NOOBS.

[For HP lovers] Also note (if your eyes are insanely good), that lil' Daniel Radcliffe still has GREEN EYES. Christopher Columbus had Hogwarts so right for me, personally. It was EXACTLY how I imagined it. Then the 3rd movie came about and ruined everything. Lil' Danny had blue eyes and it was downhill from there (I will admit, I enjoyed the 4th movie, though).

I received this military jacket a few years as a gift from my grandmother (the most epic gift giver you could ever imagine). Though I largely ignored it for a good two years since it drew too many stares whenever I wore it, in the past year or so it's become a regular in my wardrobe. It's warm, versatile, the perfect balance between bulky and flattering, and it DOES get double-takes, which I have now come to appreciate rather than fear.

Just add some aviators and I could pose the perfect pilot...

(coat- unknown; tank top- H&M; jeans- PacSun; aviators- Forever 21; shoes- Tahari)

And now, a snippet from my lover, William. It largely sums up my feelings of late.

Sonnet 35

No more be grieved at that which thou hast done.
Roses have thorns, and silver fountains mud,
Clouds and eclipses stain both moon and sun,
And loathsome canker lives in sweetest bud.
All men make faults, and even I in this,
Authorizing thy trespass with compare,
Myself corrupting, salving thy amiss,
Excusing thy sins more than thy sins are.
For to thy sensual fault I bring in sense—
Thy adverse party is thy advocate—
And 'gainst my self a lawful plea commence.
Such civil war is in my love and hate
That I an accessary needs must be
To that sweet thief which sourly robs from me.

-William Shakespeare

P.S. Since a few of you have wondered over a variety of posts about choice of post title, I'll begin posting the source of inspiration since most of them are song lyrics.
The Way the War Was Won by Your Vegas

A Current State of Affairs

2009-05-26T20:59:00.000-04:00

Currently...

Listening: Don't Stop Believin' by the Glee Cast. Did anyone see the premier? Though it was a little...scratch that, a LOT cliched, the song covers were actually really enjoyable! But this is coming from a choral and a capella obsessed fanatic, so don't take my word for it.

Reading: A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving, so far it's quite good. Thought provoking mostly. Has anyone read it?

Drinking: Water

Eating: Brie and water crackers, my staple snack food. YUMMY.

Wearing: Tennis uniform plus lucky neon green tiger stripe spandex. Basically these but more neon. Gotta love sports superstitions right?

Watching: Scrubs. I love JD...more than words.

Thinking: I'm so ready for school to be over. I can't even get over the fact that there are only three more weeks. Finals will be scary and seizure inducing, but if i survive that I've got only SUMMER on the horizon. *Sigh* Three more weeks, three more weeks, three more weeks.

Wanting: An A on an upcoming Chem test. Seriously, I would be the happiest person alive. Unfortunately, that future doesn't look particularly bright, but it never hurts to be optimistic!

Anticipating: SUMMER. Can I say it enough? I don't think so.

Loving: The feeling of lying down after a long day and a shower in PJ flannels and a sweatshirt. Most relaxing feeling in the world.

Feeling: On top of the world. Today was the first round of our regional tennis championships and my partner and I were losing 0-5 ONLY TO COME BACK AND WIN IT 7-5. Best victory EVER. (Yes, to all you tennis folks, I know it's lame that we only got to play one set, but we were limited in time since there were 8 schools and 8 teams from each school and only 8 courts...basically that equals a recipe for a LONG tournament).

I've been loving these Frieda Kahlo inspired shots for a while now, aren't the colours just so gorgeously dynamic? The contrast between her fair skin and dark hair with her festive surroundings is so engaging to the eye. The beautiful florals, the tropical palette, the dramatic make up, it's all brilliant. Although I do find it ironic that while Kahlo painted herself without attractive features to show her inner anguish, in this editorial they've glorified her as some sort of rare, naive beauty which to me, contradicts the point of her self portraits to begin with. I'd like to see some more "ugly-pretty" in the model's face. But that's just me.

(Dujour March/April 2009)

There Is A Lack Of Colour Here.

2009-05-25T09:41:00.005-04:00

The more we delve into the spring months and draw near to summer, the more I realize that I really ought to have more colour in my wardrobe. For the past few weeks I've been sporting combinations of darker colours with black or white, and while that's all fine and good during the winter, I think it's about time to crack out the big guns: obnoxiously bright colours. BUT WAIT. I have no bright clothing to break out! I also find it extremely ironic that just a few days ago I put in an $80 order at Urban Outfitters and every single item I purchased is black and white...this was my first time buying any clothes in four months. I think I have a sickness or something. While I am excited to get that shipment, I really do need to find some bright things to even out my pretty monotone wardrobe of late. With that in mind in an effort to find inspiration in all things colourful, say hello to a colour overload:

One:

Mmmm, tulip fields in the Netherlands. I love all those bright, optimistic shades. Aren't they gorgeous! Yet another reason why I've really really really got to get to the Netherlands!

Question: why is there a green stripe? Are there green tulips and if so, who BUYS them??

And if that isn't enough for you, here's a Dutch promotional video featuring five and a half minutes of....tulips.

Two:

An easy way to brighten things up is with makeup, which I'll be ready to admit, I've been awfully lazy about lately. Most days I just go without, at the most eyeliner. That's a far cry from my fall makeup routine. However, one thing that brightens things up and makes every look more polished is bright lipstick. I've been meaning to find a nice orange-y/pink/red lipstick shade for ages now, but I've never really found any good ones for my skin tone (which can be irritatingly difficult sometimes). One lovely lady who sports the red stuff daily is Jane from Sea of Shoes, and I've gotta say, I really do love how she pulls it off. It's also close to the shade I have in mind for myself.

She says that she uses Sephora Maniac Long Wearing Lipstick in Watermelon Rose...
Um, search?

Yes, that could definitely work...though I've also wanted to try lip stains in the past, just because it's not a pain as far as residue goes...perhaps such as this?

Benefit Benetint Lip Balm SPF 15I LOVE the vintage packaging (you'll probably hear more about that later) and the fact that it has SPF is definitely tempting, being the melanoma avoiding maniac that I am.

Urban Decay Lip Envy: And of course, being the Urban Decay nut that I am, this also looks quite delicious. It would probably give me a thicker and brighter color than the Benefit stuff.

Three:

WHY DO THESE EXIST. Clothes? Condoms? REALLY?

Four:

Drawings by Antoinette Fleur are enough to make anyone crave colour, her works look like simple sketches but if you look closely you can see all the colour involved and they're really just undeniably beautiful. These kind of make me wish I hadn't stopped drawing so much...

Five:

Does everyone remember the Marc by Marc Jacobs S/S 08 show? Let me refresh you memory:

Can you say REALLY REALLY easy DIY? I'm on it! Playing with lego accessories seems like an interesting, albeit extremely whimsical, way to inject some colour into a wardrobe. It reminds me of being six again, and who didn't love being six? I mean, there was nap time for goodness sake!

Well, I think that's all for now, I'm off to my local Memorial Day parade! Hurray for being patriotic! I think I should get a reward. Happy Memorial Day to all those Stateside, and Happy Monday for all you international readers!

If Ever There Were A Spring Day So Perfect...

2009-05-23T14:35:00.006-04:00

Is it just me or does it feel like this past month has been dragging on for AGES? Get me some sun, I'm sooooo ready for it to be summer vacation.

Today's been a nice cool down from a busy week and believe it or not I actually feel as if I've accomplished something (a miracle for a Saturday):

1) I've done four loads of laundry (i.e. almost my entire wardrobe...it's been piling up for about a month now)
2) Kind of learned how to do Chemistry...a little.
3) Figured out my song choice for the ACDA Honor Choir auditions: Vergin Tutto Amor, holla!
4) Found a decent online place to take some extra courses since I'm taking a double science next year and therefore leaving business credits to work out some other time.
5) Made some REALLY AMAZING heart-shaped waffles in our retro waffle iron.
6) Worked in the garden a bit, I swear it's my mother's third child.
7) Taken a few pictures for you lot...

I was in a bit of a nautical mood today, perhaps its because I wish I could be out sailing in the sun rather than stuck at school for another month? Quite possibly. Anyways, I managed to squeeze my feet into these amazing hot pink canvas flats I bought in 7th grade. They were always a little small but OH HOW I LOVE THEM. Sadly, I probably won't be able to venture out on the town in them as it could result in me becoming crippled for life, not to mention hobbling around for the good part of the evening.

My darling, Toby. He looks like a sheep. I love it.

I love this shirt, I bought it in Venice as my singular uber-tourist-y purchase and I've worn it to death ever since. I will love oversized T-shirts until the end of time.

I'm not eactly sure why, but lately I've had a bit of an obsession with taking pictures of dead plants. There's something so strangely beautiful about decrepit things.

If ever there were a spring day so perfect,
so uplifted by a warm intermittent breeze

that it made you want to throw
open all the windows in the house

and unlatch the door to the canary's cage,
indeed, rip the little door from its jamb,

a day when the cool brick paths
and the garden bursting with peonies

seemed so etched in sunlight
that you felt like taking

a hammer to the glass paperweight
on the living room end table,

releasing the inhabitants
from their snow-covered cottage

so they could walk out,
holding hands and squinting

into this larger dome of blue and white,
well, today is just that kind of day.

by Billy Collins

...That's my Saturday.

Final Question For Twenty Million Rupees, And He's Smiling.

2009-05-22T22:36:00.000-04:00

This is going to be a fast one tonight, I'm watching Slumdog Millionaire and it's quite absorbing...even after the sixth time. Bulkier post coming tomorrow, I promise!

LOVE.

I've been tagged by the lovely Zoe over at Graciously Zoe to complete this Q&A...

The rules :

1. Respond and rework; answer the question on your blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your invention, add more one question of your own.

2. Tag eight other people.

What is your current obsession ?
Moleskine notebooks, denim cutoffs, adjectives, Italian arias, su doku, LeftRightLeftRightLeft

What are you wearing today ?
Blue tie dyed wife beater (for tennis team spirit), grey denim shorts, blue Reeboks

What's for dinner ?
Grilled cheese and salad...mmm makes me feel like an 8 year old.

What are you listening to right now ?
Don't Stop Believin' by Glee Cast, SO SO SO GOOD.

What do you think about the person who tagged you ?
She posts some really wonderful finds and her designer interviews are absolutely brilliant!
Love her!

What are you biggest daily inspirations?
Sunny days, the Beatles, Christina Rossetti poetry, Tim Walker editorials

If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go ?
I'd love to go to Paris and stroll down the boulevards just to absorb the feel of the city
...or maybe New Zealand
...or maybe London
...or maybe...anywhere. I'm travel obsessed

Which language do you want to learn ?
French and I'd love to pick Mandarin back up.

What are your favorite quotes ?
"If I am occasionally a little over-dressed, I make up for it by being always immensely over-educated."
-Oscar Wilde: Importance of Being Earnest

"Sometimes I say things... and they come out of my mouth, and I don't know where they came from. It's kind of like having an illegitimate child. What?"
-Tucker...I love her...so much.

What is your favorite piece of clothing in your own closet ?
Purple geometric skirt that matches with EVERYTHING.

What is your dream job ?
Novelist or fashion magazine editor...or perhaps creative director.

Any favorite models ?
Vlada Roslyakova, Caroline Trentini, Ali Michaels, Jac, Lily Cole

Favorite designer(s) ?
Marc Jacobs, Christopher Kane, Dries Van Noten, Luella, Rodarte

What do you consider a fashion faux pas ?
Double denim and bad highlights.

Describe your personal style ?
I dress day to day and based off my mood. Some days its sleek and all black, others its ridiculously bright and clashing colours, and others its romantic vintage inspired

What's the most expensive fashion item you've ever purchased?
Yummy cashmere sweater from Tommy Hilfiger, I really prefer to keep things cheap though.

What can you never leave the house without?
My Ipod.

And now, I tag...
xs from Extra Skinny
Claudia from Painterly Pig
Copperoranges from Little Boat
Jayne from Plain Jayne
Gemma Dilemma from Sins of My Mind
Yuka from Pretty In Leather
Lily from House of Mirth
Morena Doll from Too Haute To Handle

I've also recently received an award from FASHIONconfectionairy! Thank you!

Rules: 1. Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.
2. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you've newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen.

Rosie Posie Rosie, Much Love, Loxlie, Talk Pretty To Me, Elena-Lu, Little Miss Fhenny, Slanelle, Haute World, Fashion Duck, A Simple Twist of Fate, Closet Remedy, Ink My Fashion, A Tale of Two Shoes, Love and Youth, Lace and Cake

Maybe It's Been Inside of Me All This Time: Love, Love, Love.

2009-05-19T19:47:00.001-04:00

Hey, guess what! IT'S A BEAUTIFUL DAY. Optimists rejoice! After going through a bit of a rut yesterday, my good mood was back with a vengeance once the sun returned. I have a theory that my mood is particularly affected by the presence of the sun, though mostly I attribute this to the fact that since the sun is out, my extremities don't feel as if they'll fall off from frostbite after spending a week in Siberia (I have this pesky thing called Reynaud's disease, meaning my hands and feet are basically perpetually cold...SO FUN. Not.).

Because I had a short tennis practice today, the sunshine, and my surprisingly good mood, I thought I'd get out and take some outfit shots for you all. After all, I have the camera, now it's time to USE it! Now, I know I promised prom pictures, but unfortunately...they came out kind of, sort of horrible. You know those days when your hair's just being impossible and simply WON'T work with you no matter what you try to do? It was one of those days....it also probably wasn't the BEST idea to wait 45 minutes before to start getting ready....but hey, let's blame the hair!

Oh yeah, did I mention I scored this dress for THIRTY DOLLARS? Epic WIN. I also find it ironic that the dress comes from a plus size label. Me? Plus size? Yeah, okay.

*Note the squint...SO MUCH SUN. One plus, the grass had just been cut. Mmmmm summertime fresh cut grass smell.

(dress: Necessary Objects, shoes: Tahari, jacket: Forever 21)

Let me introduce you to the brilliant heels, they're my new best friends. Who ever thought my mom would manage to pick out such INSANELY RAD shoes? Lesson of the day: never underestimate your mother's ability to shop for you. Also, they were 80% off, hurray bargain shopping!

THANKYOUMOMMY.

SO. Gossip Girl last night, anyone, anyone...Bueller? Near the end I almost screamed in frustration with the whole Chuck-Blair thing but then, OH SWEET VICTORY, they finally get together! I know I sound like a squealing teenage girl but...heck, I'll let myself be a normal teenager for once. Please tell me I'm not the only one who thought it was only the best scene ever? You can watch the scene here, but unfortunately I couldn't embed it because of privacy blockers...irritating.

Not to mention, the song playing in the background is wonderful, it's been putting me in a good mood all day after listening to it around 15 times.

The perfect song can really make a scene magical.

The Merchant of Venice

2009-05-16T19:24:00.000-04:00

I think I'm coming down with a serious case of summer fever. I'm so ready for those sunny 85 degree days. I won't let anticipation get too far ahead of me though, I've still got finals to deal with!

Yesterday was absolutely lovely, the type of Friday that makes you wish every day could be as wonderful. Last night was Relay for Life, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Association and a HUGE event in my town (at least for us school kids). If you've never heard of RFL or taken part, you really ought to, its an unbelievable experience and is really powerful for everyone who participates. I spent the afternoon watching a lax practice game with my favourite girl, Tux, and then we started Relaying it up by walking laps around the track. After a while we headed over to the local deli with a few guy friends to grab some snack-age and hurried back to the track for the luminaria ceremony, the most important part of the Relay experience in my opinion. Everybody lights candles for those they are honouring by participating and walks a silent lap around the track. Luminaria are lit in the stands to spell out HOPE.

This is what our luminaria looked like last night:

Happy Thoughts:

1. Foggy spring mornings. There's something so romantic about waking up to the treetops
wreathed in mist. I'm an English girl at heart. Though who doesn't love a good sunny day?
2. The whole weekend in front of me. I've been in a bit of a weird mood lately, it's nice to know that I have two days to regain my sanity.
3. Watermelon. With summer coming on, we'll always have watermelon at home, quite an exciting notion after going for far too long without my very favourite fruit.
4. Getting my permit at some point next week. I've put it off for a month because of being busy, but now I'll finally be able to hit the road! You better believe it.
5. Ushering at my school's production of Brigadoon WITHOUT misguiding anyone. I was proud.
6. The Asteroids Galaxy Tour. You guys across the pond probably know them well but here in the States NO ONE has. An atrocity considering her voice and the infectious choruses can always put me in a good mood.

Thanks for the tag, Truifelis!

I tag these four lovely people: Anneh my love, Sylv-baby, Ania, and Life In Technicolor.

And of course, how could I think of a better outlet for my summer anticipation than to talk about the resort collections?? I was VERY excited when I heard Karl would be showing for Chanel on Lido Beach in Venice, as that's where I stayed while in Venice two years ago. It's truly a magical place, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone heading over to Venice.

...Then there was the collection. Oh my, do words fail me. Karl brought Venice to life in this collection: the dark mysterious romanticism, the sensuality, the grandeur and extravagance, it's all there, even in the middle of 2009 when it seems all people do is watch stock market numbers. The lighting in particular is simply divine, the gold-tinged dusky tones are actually the perfect personification through lighting for Venice. Dare I say it? I'm in love.

Never thought a tri-corne hat could be so sexy.

Concerning my ongoing obsession with men's sweaters: LOOK. IT'S AMAZING. I WANT IT.

Loooving the geometric Escher theme going on here.

The Venetian lion? Okay, I'm feeling it.

There's something so casually glamourous about this. I'm liking the tank and necklace in particular.

And with that, Karl, you slay me.
*swoon*

Two words. Red tights. Are you loving yet?

That frothy blouse. Eegadz. I've just died and gone to heaven.

Of course, how can you go wrong with simple Chanel white? That necklace is calling my name...

Corseted bathing suits? YES YES YES.

Dearest Karl, how do you do it, really? These are pure genius, I can't even get over it. I'm also drooling over those black booties on the left. *cross fingers hoping they're wedges!*

You know, after this collection, I'm thinking a 30s bob never looked so good.

P.S. I'm in the process of reorganizing my links (they're seriously a mess right now) so if you think I'd like your blog (if you're a reader you know my style) then drop a line and I'll stop by your site and (space provided) add your link!

Uptown Girl, She's Been Living In Her Uptown World.

2009-05-14T22:25:00.004-04:00

I don't even think I should begin by saying it's been a while...4 days...yikes. Sorry guys, life's been getting a bit too far ahead of me lately! Regular posting probably won't resume until around Memorial Day weekend, then I'll have to plunge head first into finals. FUN. Enough about that.

After getting back from my school's production of Brigadoon (including wonderful acting/dancing/singing goodness from my beloved Jess, Annie, and Sylvie) I've decided to take a break from chemistry studying and take a breather. Of course, for me this means browsing random editorials. I stumbled by this a while ago and just dug it up out of the inspiration folder since it seems long overdue that it makes its appearance on the blog. This spread first caught my attention because of the featured Lanvin S/S 09 dresses (seriously who DIDN'T love that collection?). I soon fell in love with each of these shots. Each is unique and interesting within itself but still carries a cohesiveness with the whole. While I'm normally more a fan of action packed storybook type editorials, this is irresistible. I love how the floaty silk of the dresses contrasts with the flat grey concrete of the architecture. The strict lines of the landscape are also a brilliant juxtaposition to the dreamily chic dresses. So much juxtaposition yet somehow, it works. It helps that I also love love love the model, yet for some reason I'm having a bit of a brain fart and can't match face to name. SO INFURIATING. If anyone could lend their wisdom, it would be greatly appreciated. Anyways, the way this model works the buildings around her is just stunning, her poses are angular and interesting, yet she still allows the clothes to speak for all their subtlety. I would say more, but I'm exhausted and need sleep. Some more decent posts should come this weekend! Thanks for hanging in there with me, guys!

(10 Magazine, Spring 2009)

The Mood. Four. Grace Kelly.

2009-05-10T22:01:00.003-04:00

Here Comes the Sun When I Say It's Alright.

2009-05-08T23:24:00.003-04:00

IT'S OVER.
The week from hell has come to its close as of 3:35 this afternoon! For the next 48 hours I'm taking a break from life. That's such a pleasant notion after such a painfully stressful five days!

Things Making Me Happy At the Moment:

-My 48 hour crash course in attempting to glean every minute detail concerning European History culminated today at 3:35:00 PM. As the proctor called time, the following cheer was unbelievable...pencils were even thrown in rejoice.
*To anyone who took the exam: WHAT DID YOU THINK? Was your hand spasming by the end? No? Just me? Thought so.

-I'm staging my comeback in math, I recently received a quiz grade of 95% which has gotten me feeling VERY relieved.

-My partner and I dominated in our school's tennis match against New Canaan. My serve was ON FIRE and the opposing team kept feeding me all these easy shots at net, which of course, any aggressive doubles player such as myself eats for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. SORRYNEWCANAANGIRLIDIDN'TMEANTOHITYOUWITHTHATOVERHEADSMASH.

-I found THE SHOES. Actually, that's a lie, my dear friend found THE SHOES. Not only that, they're for FIFTY PERCENT OFF. Obviously I'm a little bit excited...I'm hoping they will soon live on my shoe rack at home.

I feel like the seagulls from Finding Nemo should pitch in with a chorus of MINE's.

...Or at least something to that effect.

-Prom is tomorrow and even though it technically isn't MY prom, a good time should be had by all. I can at least take comfort in the fact that other than my date I should know a lot of people there since two of my best friends were asked as well (sophomores invade the junior prom! PARTYYY). Also, our after party will consist of chocolate fondue and Mulan, as typical high school parties aren't really my thing. FUN.

-The Dries Noten A/W 09 collection. Seriously, whenever I look at it it gives me the warm and tinglies.

The soft colours remind me of sherbet and the contrast with the bold coral reds and oranges as well as the nudes is just undeniably scrumptious. I've never been a huge advocate for the flat monotony of solid colours but Dries get me eating my words every time I look at this collection. It just WORKS...even though in my mind it SHOULDN'T. Of course, this just makes it all the more delicious. It helps that I have a mini-obsession with the sunglasses and red-orange lipstick.

And doesn't the sweater just look so delightfully COZY? I would wear it everydayeverydayeveryday.

-Since receiving the ten season set of Friends on DVD I've been watching it religiously since Christmas and finally reached the last episode today. AFTER SEEING IT FOR THE EIGHTH TIME I STILL CRY. Since when did I become such a sap? Anyways, Friends bloopers are ALWAYS amusing.

-Cate Blanchett IS the eighth wonder of the world...seriously, the woman's like a beacon for brilliant ideas. She just plainly emanates class and elegance. Vintage Vogue spreads are glorious, glorious things. And of course, who could resist styling by Karl Lagerfeld? Simply irresistible. I have to say, Cate does a very good Coco.

(Vogue Australia, December 2003...not exactly vintage but it FEELS like a long time ago)

A Current State of Affairs

2009-05-05T21:49:00.001-04:00

(Vogue UK, July 05)

Currently...

Listening: In Love At 19 by Mark Mathis. Found this song while watching marriage proposal videos on youtube (if you haven't done this you should, there are some really great ones out there). Anyways, this one is unbelievably adorable. I can only hope my future husband can pull off something as creative and ridiculously romantic.

So adorable I can't even get over it.

Reading: A History of Western Society by McKay. Seriously, it's on my bedside table. This is what test stress will do to you.

Drinking: Nada.

Wearing: Black leotard shirt, grey skinny jeans, and NEW SHOES that will soon be making their way onto the blog.

Watching: More marriage proposals. It's becoming such an addiction. Oh, speaking of addictions, I'm realizing as the months continue that I just LOVE PostSecret. I've been reading it for a few months and I adore it even more every time I check the Sunday Secrets. The creativity, humour, and emotion put into the postcards is absolutely amazing.

Thinking: I'm slowly going crazy, I think. Here's why:

(D period, AP European History, making a list of topics with the class as someone at the computer frantically tries to write all the ideas down...they make a lot of spelling errors, much to the displeasure of us sophomores)

(Brainstorming significant figures in Italian unification)

David: "Garibaldi!"

Austin: "Cavour!"

Me: "Emmanuelle Alt!"

You know you're losing it when you start mixing up the first king of united Italy, Victor Emmanuel II, with Fashion Director of Vogue Paris, Emmanuelle Alt.

Wanting: A shopping spree. I'm so horribly uninspired with my wardrobe of late. I'd also love to be able to comfortably say that I understand what we're talking about in chemistry. Seriously, what is a dipole-dipole bond? I need to study...

Anticipating: Friday afternoon. End of the stress brought on by the AP exam with only prom on Saturday to look forward to.

Loving: Polaroid cameras. Oh yeah, if I haven't mentioned that already I got a polaroid camera for my birthday! It's AMAZINGLY cool, only problem is I have to be careful about film as it's ridiculously expensive since it's not produced anymore.

Feeling: Exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally...need...sleep.

As for the pictures, if I haven't already mentioned it, I adore Lily Cole editorials. That is all. Peace out homes, I'm getting some sleep!