pinkHondaCivic

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

Best wishes for the new year, friends. Here's to a flow of inspiration in 2012.

What have you done for me lately?

2011-11-24T18:00:00.000-08:00

Remember how I said I hadn't purchased any Fall/Winter stuff yet? Well... I remedied that recently with a few items that I love, but that didn't break the bank.

White tunic sweater from H&M- $39.95 super soft and cozy!

Delia's Olivia dark wash jeggings- $39.50 (50% off a second pair). Yes, Delia's is a juniors store. Yes, I am almost 33 years old. But they have 36" lengths in their pants, tons of sales and flat rate shipping- that's a win I can get behind.

Delia's Britt low rise colored jeans- also $39.50 (50% off a second pair). I jumped on the colored jean/jeggings trend and I love it! These fit amazing, are long enough for heels and are so super cute.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I recently bought the most amazing tees at Zara last weekend. They are 100% flax linen but they never wrinkle, are really soft and drape beautifully. I have to actively convince myself not to wear them every single day.

I bought the 3/4 sleeve in natural white and grey/black stripe- $29.50. So lovely!

That's it for my clothing sprees, at least until after Christmas! ♥

Girls Night

2011-11-16T19:27:00.001-08:00

I'm an admitted home-body. I tend to prefer staying home, chilling out with a glass of wine or hanging out with a few friends rather than a huge, ruckus night out. However, every so often a crazy night out is an absolute blast!

While we were away for a wedding, the guys and girls split off into their respective groups and hit up a couple clubs for the bachelor and bachelorette festivities. What happens in the Caribbean, stays in the Caribbean... so they say. But get me in the right mood and I *might* admit to drinking Grey Goose and Red Bull, staying out too late, skinny dipping in the pool and dancing samba with a shirtless midget.

Girls night is the perfect excuse for a little sparkle, a little mini and a little glam.

Zara mini (actually a strapless little dress), Joe Fresh sequin tank, sandals bought in Italy

I'm missing my ladies already! Even though I love bumming in my pjs on the couch, I actually can't wait to have another adventure with my some of my favorite girls. ♥

The Boring-est Christmas List Ever

2011-11-15T17:51:00.001-08:00

I always have a hard time trying to think of Christmas gifts- for myself and to give to others. I'm a bit of a gift fail so I need to start shopping and picking out items, the earlier the better.

I have a pretty sad list this year... I can hardly think of anything I really want.

A pair of pearl earrings

A long length hoody

aaaaaand that's kind of... it. I am at a loss, there is no big item that I am really jonesing for this year.

Fall Inspiration

2011-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

Lately I've had a really difficult time choosing items and getting inspired for fall. Nothing is really making me excited enough to pull the trigger.

I kind of have a craving for some skinny jeans, maybe colored? But I kind of want some wide leg pants or cords? I just haven't seen much that I'm really nuts over this season.

I did get really inspired by this pic of Rachel Zoe... I guess you could say I Die! Love her pants and her whole look here, the layering is utter perfection.

We're already into the end of October and I haven't bought any fall pieces yet at all. I'm not even sure what to pick up. My wallet is happy but my closet is not!

Lame-o-tron

2011-10-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

I've been away... laying on a beach in the Caribbean. That's the honest, absolute truth. Shopping has been minimal and OOTD have been next to nothing. Bikinis, shorts and beer stained sundresses. But I do have a few oldies floating around iPhoto I can bust out.

The goddess of the Atlantic Ocean decided she liked my Ray Bans so much that they were swept off into the briny deep. So most of my shopping budget consisted of a new pair of ~ironically~ Ray Ban Caribbeans. These are currently on their way back into my hands...

Back with more soon!

Summer's Sun

2011-09-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

This outfit has been my summer uniform this year. I actually have to talk myself out of wearing it constantly.

Gap shorts, Prairie NYC tank, Chinese Laundry sandals, RayBan Caribbean sunglasses

For the first time in three years, I finally bought new sunglasses. I wore my pair of Von Zippers to death until this spring I fell in love with the Ray Ban Caribbeans. They are similar to the traditional Wayfarers with a little bit straighter lines and slightly more angular edges.

I literally hemmed and hawed over these for months. I just couldn't justify the $240 that the sunglasses store in the mall was asking for and I was wary about buying fakes online. I literally scoured the internet until I was satisfied that I found the best, most authentic deal around. I'm so glad that I finally did, I just love them!

Summer Summer Summer

2011-08-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

I must confess, I've been having a ball all summer. I don't want it to end! We've had some gorgeous weather this year, without many of our usual seasonal hail and thunderstorms. We have spent a good amount of time at our local pool and rafting lazily down the big river that runs through our city.

However, I was having a terrible time this year with summer clothes. I have, admittedly, gained a little summer beer-and-bbq weight. I'm not loving the way my summer wardrobe is fitting. I didn't have a nice pair of casual sandals that weren't flip flops.

When I headed to the mall to pick up yet another wedding gift, I had a few minutes to browse and check out some of the end-of-season deals that were flooding the stores. I came out victorious with two new purchases I'm so pleased with. And they were dealz to boot!

I own just 2 pairs of shorts. Both are from Old Navy- one denim, one brown cotton- both are borderline inappropriately short, both have been worn until the cows come home, and neither one is probably the most flattering thing I've ever worn. But shorts are shorts, a necessary evil.

I grabbed these from the Gap. They are very cute, a slightly higher rise and slightly longer inseam making for a pair of pretty shorts that don't look like I just got off shift at Coyote Ugly. On sale for a deal at $9.95. The mauve color is really pretty and surprisingly very versatile.

I also found the perfect wedge sandals in these Chinese Laundry "Devan" sandals. I bought them in a department store on clearance for $19!! They are high but really surprisingly comfortable. The leather is soft, the sole is slightly padded and they look so cute on. I love them!

Splashed Palette: Version 2

2011-08-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

This summer we have/had to attend 4 weddings (no funerals) and so far three down, one left to go. Of those three, I have worn the Splashed Palette dress twice. The whole reason, of course, being that I bought it to be the always present wedding guest.

This round was a little more formal. It was a beautiful wedding; every last detail done up to the nines, from the mints on the table to the adorned tea light candles. It was like a wedding from a movie.

Cropped out my friends who probably don't want to be blog starz

For this version I added touches of gold and green- gold Aldo peep toe heels, a vintage black leather (with gold clasp) pocketbook, as well as a set of vintage jewelry that is very special to me. Back in the 1940's my grandfather traveled to San Francisco and brought back a set of jade earrings and necklace in order to try and woo my reluctant nana. They were passed down to me a few years ago and I cherish them deeply.

All in all it was a fun evening. We hit up a patio after the festivities and sat out on a beautiful summer night.

An Unispired Mess

2011-08-09T22:36:00.000-07:00

Lately things just haven't been happening for me, style wise. I don't like the things I have and don't see much for me potential in the stores or online. I am in the midst of suffering through a massive clothing rut. Not even the new fall J Crew catalog in my mailbox today could pull me out of my funk...

This weekend we went away to a (snazzy) lake front vacation town with my family. I admittedly didn't pack well and felt like a sloppy mess the whole time. I wasn't the worst dressed around, mind you, but I just didn't feel like I had anything cute or special with me. I don't really have a lot of summer stuff to begin with, our hottest season is so short that summer is not the time for "investment pieces". Basically, I felt pretty bummy in my old Old Navy shorts and Joe Fresh sundresses. Blah. I secretly had a massive case of "the envies" seeing pretty, well-dressed lasses strolling the lake front.

Looking into my closet, I realize I don't have a lot of things I actually really love. I'm nervous about having to pack for our fall vacation to the Dominican and looking like a hobo. Yet, I just haven't seen any "Yes!" items around either. A few weeks ago, I hit up the Gap and Banana to look for some shorts, summer items and jeans. Everything was an absolute disaster and I left feeling almost defeated, remembering why I rarely shop in those stores.

Even my Fall wish list is struggling:

a pair of jeans (flared or wide leg something, not skinny)
a great leather jacket
a pair of fall trousers- not black or navy

aaaaand that's about it, really. What I really need for fall is a stylist who can go through my current wardrobe and tell me this is good, bad, terrible, good, etc. I have to be more honest with myself when choosing new pieces; less rushed; more considerate.

I have T-minus 7 weeks to put together a cohesive, 9 day and night, hot weather vacation wardrobe. In the mean time I'll be scouring the blogs and my favorite online shops for items, wishlists and inspiration! ♥

Splashed Palette: Version 1

2011-08-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

The first of my 3 weddings was this weekend and I was excited to debut my Moulinette Soeurs 'Splashed Palette' dress from Anthropologie. You may recall, I hemmed and hawed over this purchase and I'm so glad I got it!

I felt great in it, like I was walking the red carpet. Lots of compliments too!

The wedding was on a gorgeous 30 degree day in a park and the couple were so sweet and excited, it was an adorable wedding! It was very hot so I didn't need a wrap, even at night. I just paired it with a pair of old Chinese Laundry calf hair mules and a black bag I turned into an oversized clutch by tucking in the handle. It seems I've lost my favorite black clutch... sad.

I love this dress so much, I can't wait for the next two weddings! ♥

Blocked

2011-07-21T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry gang, I'm suffering from some serious bloggers block. The summer sun has melted my brain and I couldn't think of a single thing to say. I feel like in the summer I have more tasks to do- chores to finish, patios to sit on, pools to swim in- and less time to sit in front of the computer than in the colder months.

However, I have mostly been sticking to the shopping ban still. Save for two items...

I finally bought new glasses!! For the first time in over 5 years!! And they were FREE! except for shipping and a lens upgrade.

I'm stoked, I love them. I think they are funky nerdy glasses~ Kam Dhillon "purple". I got them for free after ordering contact lenses online from Clearly Contacts* and they rock. Orderly glasses online was surprisingly easy and I'd definitely do it again.

*I'm not affiliated in any way, just a happy customer*

My second purchase, I am also extremely excited about, took some time to consider. I will be attending three weddings this summer, each very different, and I really wanted a new dress. I hemmed and hawed over what to wear and I just didn't have anything suitable for any of them.

I made the mistake/joy of stopping in Anthro one night and I fell utterly head-over-heels in love. The object of my affection: The Splashed Palette dress by Moulinette Soeurs. The $228 price tag? Not so much.

However after trying on a couple different choices and staring woefully at it online during work hours while I was far too busy to do so, I knew I had to bite the bullet. It was just too perfect- exactly what I wanted for all 3 events.

I love it and can't wait to debut it.

I *technically* have a third purchase but I don't think it counts towards the ban because I haven't actually received anything tangible ;) My Mister and I booked a 9 day vacation to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! We are so excited! One of our 3 weddings is in the DR and we just couldn't miss it. Its not too far away and I can't wait!!!

♥

Earth Mother

2011-07-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

First, let me say this outfit is a complete departure for me. I don't wear leggings normally for anything other than under pants while snowboarding. And I'm not big on unstructured, flowy jersey items. Too earthy yoga chick for my personal taste. Give me a crisply ironed pencil skirt or give me death.

Old Navy leggings, Joe Fresh flip flops, Buttons tunic top

Today the weather couldn't decide what it wanted to do. Hot, cloudy, rainy. We attempted a pool day but the clouds rolled in and ruined it so we went to the movies instead. The leggings are the result of a 5 Guys food baby. My poor belly is stuffed! I needed comfy pants.

This is my newest set of hair extensions- my longest ones yet. I love them! I've alway wanted long princess hair and think they look pretty natural. I always take pictures before I leave, today I did not. Once I get home ~and it's raining... I don't look quite as polished as I felt previously. Ah well! ♥

Musical Interlude

2011-06-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

I'm away from the blogosphere for a few days. I'm not off having adventures sadly, I'm renovating my bathroom and its turned into a slightly larger project than anticipated, of course.

Until I return, please enjoy a recent pic... I love love loved this outfit. You probably know by now I'm not an overly adventurous color-mixer but I had a lot of fun with this combination! I'm a big fan of yellow, I think it goes with so much.

J Crew bright rhubarb corduroy skirt, J Crew rosette tee, Franco Sarto leopard calf hair pumps

Be back as soon as I can show up showered once again! ♥

I Love Sparkles

2011-06-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

I'm all about sequins lately! My latest go-to party outfit is definitely jeans with sparkles and sequins.

I wore this outfit out for dinner one night with my sweetie and a couple of my best friends. I loved it so much I pulled it out two weeks later to wear to a close girlfriend's stagette dinner.

Joe Fresh sequin tank, Free People jeans, Aldo patent heels, Express jersey Military jacket

It's an easy outfit that looks special. I've also mixed it up with a blazer instead of a military jacket, different heels, and layering tanks underneath. These golden earrings are a recent acquisition- a gift from a girl friend who took a trip home to Brazil and returned with presents.

Etsy pic from BrazilianEcoDesigns

I found a similar pair to mine on Etsy here. I have no affiliation with this store (I have not purchased from them and do not know them) but they have very cute stuff! ♥

Loose, Free and 1970s

2011-06-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling inspired lately by a return of 1970's style looks. I'm loving different denim washes- my new favorite jeans are a light, almost stone wash; clogs and hippie-style jewelry- seed beads and wooden pieces. I've been growing out my hair and lazily blow drying it, not attacking it with straightening irons or curlers every day. Just letting it be its natural free self, yeah man.

Denim shirt by Jacob, J Crew cord skirt, Joe Fresh mini patent belt, Portugese gypsy market boots.

I'm still hopped up on cold medicine and I wrote "demin" not once, but twice. Then I couldn't figure out why spellcheck was flagging it. Dang! ♥

Sickness

2011-06-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

I never get sick. I'm generally a pretty healthy person and I hate getting sick. Yet once again, for the second time this year, I am ill. A few weeks ago I had the flu. Now I have a really icky, coughy, energy-draining cold.

I'm beginning to wonder if it's stress related because of the recent things that have been happening in my work life. Maybe. Probably. Anyway, because of this sickness I haven't been taking any photos and I've only been wearing the coziest, comfiest clothes possible.

In other news, the vacation gods have smiled on us and we have decided to take not just one, but two vacations this year. Some friends that we adore invited us to their wedding in the Dominican Republic so we're taking a week in Punta Cana. Then hardly a month later, we had planned a trip with my favorite cousins to Mexico. Can you say spoiled much???

Fortunately/unfortunately, this means a whole summer of no shopping! I'm going to try and shop my closet as much as possible and mix in clothes and accessories I don't wear as much to keep things fresh. I'm also going to list a few items on eBay that I have to admit just aren't working for me and I should part with. Watch for my eBay listings linked here soon.

Later! ♥

Outfit Journaling

2011-06-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I really love an outfit even though there really isn't anything that special about it. The good thing about having an outfit journaling blog is it can help you look at your wardrobe from a different perspective. Pictures can help you see how you look, the fit of your clothes, and how often you re-wear certain beloved items. Why do I love this outfit? Its comfy and everything fits great. That's a win in my books.

J Crew Heritage chinos, Joe Fresh striped top, J Crew cashmere cardigan, Le Chateau wedge loafers, farmers market necklace

I don't have a lot of trousers and pants so I tend to re-wear the same pairs over and over again each week. These navy cotton J Crew Heritage trousers are my favorite pair, they fit nicely and are long enough to wear with a heel or wedge. I wear a lot of navy, this I have also noticed from outfit journaling. As much as I wear them, I never tire of them.

A lot of what blogging has taught me is that an outfit doesn't necessarily need to be "special" in order to be great. Good fit is important. Colors that you're drawn to and that work for you. Knowing your "style"- as much as I like huge bell bottoms and crazy colored hair, I know that a classic, slightly preppy wardrobe works for me. Liking what you wear is key. And that's good enough for me ♥

Up Do

2011-06-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been thinking a lot about this hair style, from the Anthropologie catalog a few seasons ago. I love that it is pretty and romantic but not too formal.

The soft curls and headbands are so pretty. And its not sprayed hard helmet-head. Anyone who has ever had a professional updo (so pretty much any bridesmaid, ever) knows how much it sucks to try and brush or wash out that much product and backcombing.

My Mister bought me the cutest sparkly rhinestone headband last weekend at a little trinket shop and I wanted a pretty up do, too. I don't have lovely mass of hair like our fair catalog maiden, but I made it work.

First, I curled clean dry hair with a small barrel curling iron. Then I back combed to get as much volume as possible including my bangs for a slight 'poof'.

I put on the headband and smoothed the backcombing around my crown.

For the rest of my length, I just sort of winged it- I bundled it up and secured it with a few bobby pins, keeping it messyish and letting some curls hang out. Then I touched up the curls and gave it a healthy dose of hair spray.

I think this is my new favorite style!

Spring Colors

2011-06-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

With the days getting longer and the sun shining brighter (well, sometimes. It has been pretty rainy lately), I've been trying to incorporate more colors into my wardrobe. It's spring and I'm ready for some fun!

Plenty by Tracy Reese skirt, Le Chateau nude pumps, Forever21 shirt, Joe Fresh skinny belt

This skirt was given to me as a gift when our Anthropologie store first opened. I've had it since December but I've been challenged when it comes to wearing it because I wasn't really sure how. It looks like a painting to me- how do you wear a statement piece and not let it wear you?

When my mom bought me this pair of nude patent shoes, I knew I finally had something to wear with the Hortulan skirt that would let the pattern be the star.

Joe Fresh tee, BCBG tuxedo trousers, Miz Mooz wedges

I love solid, bright colors. This top was my $6 ban-breaker from Joe Fresh. I love it, the slub cotton is great- sturdy yet soft.

One of my silly fashion "rules" is that I never like to wear more than 3 solid colors in one outfit. I don't know why this is, I just feel like I can't pull off a rainbow array. I don't have the phenomenal color mixing skills some bloggers are blessed with.

Another fashion rule I have is to never do an "Oreo"- by that I mean shirt and shoes one color, pants another. Like black-white-black, get it? I just can't do it.

*I'm still on the shopping ban challenge and I'm sticking with it through June. The only thing I've purchased recently is a new cover for my iphone and I plan to try and keep it up through a good part of the summer. ♥

Down for the Count

2011-05-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

Geez... if its not one thing its a thousand others, so it seems. Lately blogger hasn't been allowing me to log in from my laptop, only from my iphone. Today, it magically fixed itself. My Mobile Me email is being a punk and won't refresh to push emails through. I curse you, technology!

Worst of all, I spent my whole weekend and the first long weekend of summer, at that, in bed with the flu. Literally the worst flu I've had in a decade. My bones ached like I was thoroughly pummelled with a blunt object, I had the chills, the sweats, the throw-up-on-the-bathroom-floors, you name it. It was brutal and a waste of what could have been a potentially awesome weekend. I'm just glad I wasn't out camping.

And in a third act of fail, I *may* have broken the shopping ban challenge. But the story surrounding it is so convoluted that it really can't be helped. You see, last weekend I was taking my niece to an afternoon birthday party, while her parents were away and she was left in the care of my Mister and I. The party was quite a ways from home and I didn't really have enough time to go back home before picking her up again. So I decided to putter around and treat myself to a well-deserved pedicure.

The party locale was next door to a supermarket that features one of my favorite inexpensive clothing lines, Joe Fresh, of course. During my putter-a-thon I stopped in to browse- bad idea.

Back in the fall, when I made my annual pilgrimage to J Crew, I tried on an adorable 3/4 sleeve slub cotton tee with a string of flat cotton rosettes around the front yoke area. It was extremely cute, however my fashion advisors (my mom and cousin) hated the only rusty-orange color left in my size. So I left it behind.

Joe Fresh had the exact replica tee in a variety of colors (none of them rusty-orange, thank goodness). I just about died when I discovered they were only $6 each. So I cracked and bought 2- a fresh lemon cream yellow and a muted poppy red. I broke my band for $12. Sad.

The good news is, I really don't have need or want for anything so I'll probably continue/restart the ban (unofficially if no one else does) for June as well. Anyone interested in carrying on?

Inspiration

2011-05-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

I saw this pic on Polyvore so I'm not sure where it's actually from and I apologize for nabbing it.
But I LOVE this so much! Oh my goddddd.... everything about this is just so utterly fabulous. From her cute hair to the striped shirt, the great skirt and the clutch. I adore this.

I have a similar pink J Crew pencil skirt. If I had a striped shirt, some hot platforms and mounds of coolness, I could *try* to pull this off.

Truth Crystalizes Like Jewels

2011-05-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Lately the blog has been more about clothes than life. How boring. What's the latest news from around my crib? Well to be honest, not much.

I have deemed this summer "The Summer That I Do House Projects". This scares me slightly since this winter I did exactly zero around the house and sat around on my ass instead. This summer I* ambitiously plan to accomplish the following:

Build a new fence
Re-shingle the house's roof
Tear down the old sad shed and build a pretty new one with a sunny yellow door
Replace the outside lights that duct tape on them

*By I, of course, I mean I plan coerce my Mister and bribe friends and family members into helping out.

We shall see how much of this gets done this year as well as the usual summer gardening/weeding/mowing chores that homeownership requires. I love to garden, I'm just not sure if I'll have time to get everything set up this year.

This week, 6 years ago, I made one of the best decisions I've made thus far in my life. At the time I was living a life that was very lonely. Lets leave it at that. I was desperate for a companion to keep me company while I was home alone for long stretches of time. I had been checking in at the SPCA every few weeks but the dogs there always had issues that I wasn't prepared to deal with.

One day I stopped after work and there she was, my little girl. She was skinny and scruffy and she needed a good bath. But she had such charm and such personality that from the moment I saw her, I was head over heels in love.

When I was a kid, I wanted a dog with flippy ears who would catch a frisbee. We had a guard dog growing up, he never wanted to play or cuddle. He was there to protect the baby ~me~ when I was alone. Now as an adult, here she was- the dog I always wanted.

I'm so gratefully to have been able to find my best pal. She's a brat, she makes me laugh and she licks me tears when I'm sad. I may have rescued her but she's saved me a thousand times over. ♥

Confetti Girl

2011-05-07T17:50:00.000-07:00

Today was a special day for me because I got to spend it with the three people I love the most: my Mom, my Gran and my Mister. We took my Mom and Gran out for lunch to celebrate Mother's Day and had a fantastic day.

A special day is a perfect excuse to wear special new clothes.

J Crew Merino Stripe Confetti sweater

I can occasionally coerce my personal photographer to take my picture in lieu of just using auto-timer

Free People 5 Pocket Flares in Long- love these SO much

Le Chateau grey suede booties

I can't say enough good things about how much I love these pieces. Sometimes I buy things then think "oh they're nice". But occasionally I buy things that are "OMGilovethemsomuchiwanttodoadanceinmynewclothes!" I should really be buying* more OMG items and less just ok things. I did lose at least 4 sequins throughout the day; darn these delicate pretty things.

*But for this month, I'm on the shopping ban and not buying anything at all.

Shop Your Closet Challenge

2011-05-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

This month I decided to have a no-buy month. I shopped like a clothing tornado last month so I really needed to hang back for a few weeks and save some money, enjoy my new things and continue to sort through my old pieces for keepers.

Coincidently, Anthroholic started the Shop Your Closet Challenge this month also. So I've joined in the fun.

There is nothing I need so I'm not buying anything. If a Splendid dress I have my eye on comes back into stock I *may* consider it. But it would be a hard sell for me.

Watch for posts debuting my new items and more Wear It posts on some older things. Stay tuned and join in too!

Undecided

2011-05-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

I feel like recently my blog has been about acquiring; lots of posts about buying new things. Looking into my closet, it should really be more about changes. Getting rid of, altering and finding ways to make not-working things...well, work.

I posted previously about orphan items. I have other things, let's call them frenemies (friend/enemy hybrid), shall we? Like their namesake, I reach for them and take them out and I think I like them. I like them until I see a photo of myself or catch a glimpse in a different mirror and suddenly I realize I don't look like I thought I did in my head. Somehow, they have steered me wrong.

I was happy with this shirt when I bought it. I admit its not an expensive shirt, from Joe Fresh it was probably about $19. Its well made especially for that price, good quality cotton, washes nicely, irons well and has nice color- a blue and purple check.

The problem, I suppose by looking at these pictures, must be in the fit. I feel frumpy. The shoulder seams are at the right spot and it doesn't gape at the bust. I think the issue is maybe the body is too shapeless? The length too short? I just don't know.

So what do you do with a frenemy item? Can you find a way to make it work or do you call it a day and break it off, once and for all?

Easter Sparkles

2011-04-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Easter Saturday was a casual dinner at my Moms with my Mister and some close family. Mom made a delicious Czechoslovakian dinner and it was finally a warm, snow-less day.

J Crew Dream Taffeta cardi, new Joe Fresh sparkle tank, Tahari navy cropped pants, Steve Madden flats

Happy (belated) Easter!

Lonely Pieces

2011-04-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone has orphan items in their closets- pieces that just don't get as much love as some of the others. Lonely pieces that have nothing obviously wrong with them but they aren't quite 100% perfect.

I don't know why I don't wear this sweater much. I like the color. Its soft and not itchy at all. For some reason when I wear it, I just don't get that 'special feeling'- that love. It rides up a wee bit. I like it but I don't love it.

J Crew Cable Knit Crew sweater, Tommy Hilfiger pencil skirt, Le Chateau patent pumps

I'm aiming to get more wear out of these lonely, orphaned clothes. Attempting to wear things that gets neglected and not automatically reach for my favorite items over and over.

One thing I really loved are my shoes, I wish I would have gotten a better picture of them. They are a perfect nude patent Barbie-doll-foot shoe. Perfect for making your legs look a mile long and great if you don't know what color shoe to wear. Bonus- I bought them on sale (well, my mom did for me, as a little treat) for only $29. Love!

Spree

2011-04-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

Since it was recently the anniversary of the day I blessed the Universe with my presence (Ha! my birfday), I was ripe with a few extra bucks and felt like doing a bit of shopping. Apparently I'm "hard to buy for" so the gift of choice this year from everyone was cash. I don't mind this at all since I love shopping but nearly all of my objects of desire are online anyway.

So I shopped and I shopped hard. I don't remember the last time I had a spree of this magnitude (not counting a shopping vacation, of course). And now I patiently await everything in the mail.

J Crew Gem Stud

& Merino Confetti Striped Sweaters

Some sweet new sneaks ~ Reebok RealFlex

Free People 5 Pocket Flares, with a 37" inseam. Can you belieeeeeve it? I'm so excited to have long jeans I can wear with heels or clogs.

in store: a Joe Fresh sequin tank, a steal for $19. I bought the olive with gold sequins and it is pure awesome.

I also picked up two skinny patent belts on clearance for $3 a piece at Joe Fresh as well~ one in black and one in a pretty, springy mauve. My Mister's awesome sister also gifted me a new pair of Lululemon Groove pants in a really nice grey with a tie-dye waist band. So comfy that I've been living in them non stop.

Now I just wait and wait while hoping everything fits and dreaming about new and interesting outfit combos. IRL pics to come soon.... I hope!

Dress For Success

2011-04-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

I have a bad habit of getting sloppy every once in a while and dressing like a lazy bum. I realized this after I didn't take off my Tron-themed hoodie the whole day at work. Finally this week it was nice enough weather to actually wear some real, big girl clothes.

While on vacation last year, I bought this J Crew dress. I tend to only wear it for special occasions, like a job interview. But I love it so I've decided everyday a special enough day to wear it.

All in J Crew: cashmere sweater and wool dress, Naturalizer heels, bamboo thread tights.

Total Love

2011-04-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

This weekend was my 32nd birthday. It was relatively low-key but it was great- a nice night out with friends, great dinners and an edible fruit bouquet delivered to work from my sweetie. I also finally debuted my new J Crew Lady Lace Popover... twice.

For a casual night at a Greek restaurant with jeans and riding boots ~ Seven For All Mankind "Dojos" and Le Chateau burgundy leather riding boots

And for a meal at an award winning French restaurant with skinny black trousers and heels ~ DKNY stretch cords and Nine West pumps

I can not tell you how much I love love LOVE this top. I got so many compliments on it and it fits like a glove. It is completely TTS for J Crew, this is my usual Small. The arms are a little on the skinny side but they're perfect for my long limbs. The merino sleeves and back is lovely and soft. The under layer of the lace is a chiffon but its not too sheer, I definitely recommend nude undergarments or a thin cami if you're feeling self conscious.

Over all, I highly recommend this top. It was a little on the pricey side -$198 however I had a code making it $148, but I'm so glad I bought it. I love it and I know I'll get a ton more use out of it. I can't wait to wear it again already!

Time Flies

2011-04-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

Time goes by so quickly sometimes it seems. I can't believe it mid-way through April, my 32nd birthday already and *fingers crossed* Spring!

I work out for at least an hour every day. I love it but it eats up a good chunk of my time and unfortunately there just isn't enough hours in the day to do everything I want to do. My "winter project" of painting and redecorating the spare room... well, its April and I'm no further than I was 6 months ago when winter began.What is also directly affected by working out, is my sleep pattern. I sleep like the dead every night. But I wake up tired and running late. Then I don't dress my best or anything even remotely picture worthy.

Don't get me wrong, I love working out. And I also love cooking healthy meals that go hand in hand with it. I was thinking of starting a recipe blog but let's be honest, I do not have time for that. I may just add a recipe tab to this page and call myself a "life style blogger" haha.

In fashion news, the new J Crew catalog showed up at my door and as usual, I'm in love over and over again. You're killing me, JC.... my savings account is cowering in fear already.

Windowpane Trenchlet

Dies, dies, dies. I love this so hard.

Gem Stud Sweater

Such pretty blush too.

Merino Confetti Stripe Sweater

Vivette Dress

Garden Lace Pencil Skirt

Cutest Skirt EVER

Slim Knit Pant

I don't really like leggings but these are too cute.

Keep on trucking... this weekend I will finally debut the J Crew Lady Lace Popover I've been hoarding for weeks, some healthy recipes and possibly some birthday pics. ♥

Fitting Room Fails

2011-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I stopped by the mall to do a little puttering. I wanted *something*. What that something was, I don't know. I just was in the mood to shop.

I hit up Urban Outfitters. Its new but I always forget its there. I didn't even bother to try anything on and left empty handed. Same with Steve Madden, Forever XXI and Club Monaco.

I finally made it to Anthropologie and headed to the change room with an arm load of items. I don't know if I had bad shopping karma or what but nearly everything was a total fail on me. Here are some low quality iPhone pics of my items...

First Mate Skirt- the ruching around the hip was too bunchy and unflattering. It hits an odd length for me. But do you like my other new Threadless tee?

Runny Yoke skirt- It had such potential to be cute but it was just off. Also bunchy. I don't do bunchy.

I just don't even know. Is it a dress? Is it lounge wear? Why, hello unflattering boob thingy! Back on the rack you go.

So close to being good- cute pants (Looking Up wideleg trousers), cute bow belt (Rippled Ribbon belt), linebacker shoulder shirt (Mitered and Metered top) fail. The Rippled Ribbon belt is pretty and suede but I found fit small, I had a Medium at my natural waist.

The one win of the day: Nana's Doily top. I loved this. Great material and good fit- this is a 2, if I remember correctly. But at $138.00 I just couldn't justify bringing it home yet. And I wasn't too sure about the cutouts along the bottom showing too much belly (these pants are high waisted). I definitely have this wish-listed, however.

I tried on a few other things that weren't even iPhone worthy. Let's just say I am not built for the maxi dress/skirt trend. I loved the top and I also really liked the wideleg trousers, I may go back for them with my birthday discount. But I don't know if I'm just not really feeling it. My shopping mojo must be off.

Inspired By...

2011-03-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

My Mister and I like to have "a show"- a series that we watch together. Now that Lost is over (miss youuuu), our latest fixation has been Mad Men. We're a little late to the party, I know; we're just finishing up Season 4 but we are both utterly obsessed with Don, Roger and the team at Sterling Cooper.

My favorite character and current inspiration icon is Joan Holloway Harris, of course. I absolutely adore her look and style.

Reasons That I Love Joan's Look:

#1... Jewel Tones

They always dress Joan in rich, saturated colors that offset her fair complexion. I love bright color and wish that my wardrobe contained more, especially rich reds, pinks and purples like Joan's does. She dresses simply and lets color be the focus.

#2...Feminine Style

Joan keeps it simple and always ladylike- work appropriate dresses, pencil skirts and blouses. Few accessories and a great shoe. Her figure is, of course, incredible but she always look professional and appropriate- never revealing. They dress her in simple, flattering clothing that is pretty without being fussy.

#3...Being "Done"

All the ladies of Mad Men- Joan, Betty, Megan and Faye have looking "done" down to a science. Perfect hair, flawless makeup, beautiful skin. As much as I like a loose, beachy style; I think there is a lot to be said for the "old" style of being done up. It shows class and that you dedicate time on yourself to look your best. I strive to be more put together.

Things I Want, To Be More Joan:

~work appropriate dresses

~a really good red lip

~an easy, but classic updo

Ahoy!

2011-03-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Everything I talk about on my blog, I buy because I love. Nobody would pay me for a this, let me assure you.

The company I work for is fairly funky/casual, there aren't a whole lot of rules for work attire other than just looking work appropriate. I love silly graphic tee shirts but I don't necessarily like wearing them to work because I don't want to come across as looking too roll-out-of-bed, college student.

Jeans and a tee need something special to make it work appropriate like a cool jacket...

Free People Majorette jacket

I love this shirt! I placed a Threadless order recently and this was probably my favorite buy, called Wake. I am very pleased that they no longer use AA tees, their new stock is soft and actually long enough for my torso.

I have a few more tees to debut, I love their $10 tee sales and their customer service is awesome. Thumbs up for Threadless!

Buff

2011-03-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

I have neglected my blog once again. I like blogging but sometimes I feel like I suck at it and have no idea what I'm doing. Other times life just gets in the way and I have no time to blog.

I have gotten back into the time-suck that is working out and therefore I have no time to do anything else, such as clean my house or post silly pictures of myself on the internet. For the past 3 weeks, I have worked out for about 1.5 hours everyday, 6 days a week. For real. Plus I've been cooking healthy food and not eating out. While I love it and as soon as I start getting into the workout, I'm happy; there are many days I just want to lie on the couch in sweatpants and eat a bag of chips. Working out is hard and its a commitment but if it wasn't everyone would be buff and skinny so I'm trying to do it for now with as little complaint as possible.

Anyway onwards!

I took some clothes into my usual consignment shop and spied these navy Tahari cropped trousers on the sale rack for $11. So I scooped them. The pockets are a bit weird and sticky-outy so I might sew them shut. I don't know what exactly but I felt kind of "meh" about this outfit.

Elie Tahari cropped pants, Old Navy button down, Alfred Sung ruffle sweater, Nordstrom BP leopard flats

This outfit I really loved! I wore it out for dinner with friends then the next week I wore it to work. Then my belt broke and I have to find a replacement before I can wear it again- ie: as soon as possible.

Express Editor pants, Joe Fresh checked button down, Aldo skinny belt- RIP, Steve Madden flats

I'm trying to work out a new color combo here. I like this top but I feel like large ruffle down the front limits what I can wear with it. Navy- violet- burgundy & yellow, not my usual but I think it kind of works.

J Crew Heritage chinos, Anthropologie top, J Crew Jackie cardigan.

I have some new buys and an upcoming wishlist so more posts soon!
PS- is anyone else loving the changes Blogger made? Its so easy to edit pics now!!

Blazing

2011-03-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

Ever since I missed out on an adorable little tweed jacket from the Gap (thanks again Gap Canada for not shipping Tall sizes, much appreciated), I have been obsessing over wearing blazers.

I used to hate them, I felt constricted and fussy. But this winter I realized what an excellent ~and warm!~ layering piece they actually are. A plain outfit instantly looks more polished and work appropriate with a blazer.

I posted a few weeks ago about a blazer with skinny pants. This is absolutely my favorite look with a jacket, as well as my most favorite blazer in my closet. From Club Monaco and it fits like it was hand tailored. It's the jacket of my suit so I try not to wear it too too much, I don't want the suit pieces fade or wear and not match.

A cute jacket can break up an otherwise monochrome outfit and add a nice layer on a cold day without looking like the Michelin Man.

Yes I do have a shirt, a sweater vest and a blazer on, by the way. It was THAT cold.

Back in the ye' olde days of Stylethread, we used to swear by the "uniform" : jeans, heels and a blazer for any and all occasions. I've recently re-embraced this look for casual Fridays at the office. However, flats do quite nicely as well.

On my blazer wishlist...

This cute Easy-Peasy Blazer from Anthropologie

Camel colored blazer from Zara (in store) makes me want a whole camel/caramel colored suit

Doldrums

2011-03-03T17:26:00.000-08:00

Every morning I wake up hoping that spring has miraculously sprung overnight and the unseasonably cold -28 degrees Celsius will be gone for good. I also wake up every morning hoping that all of my winter clothes will be missing from my closet and replaced with adorable new spring items.

Sadly, that just isn't so.

I'm at the point of the season where I'm just so. damn. bored. with all of my winter clothes, but it's still too cold to wear anything else. So every day is layers of trousers and sweaters, more trousers and more sweaters. Hopefully soon I can wear some cuter, springier items and the weather will smarten up.

Hello Lovely

2011-02-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

New for Spring 2011, J Crew Lady Lace Popover...

I think this is just so pretty; a cute piece dressed up or down.

It may hurt, but may have to shell out the painful full price of almost $200 for this one.

I just can't get enough

2011-02-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

Two songs I'm utterly obsessed with right now:

Radiohead's video for Lotusflower

I love you Thom Yorke

And Sufjan Stevens song I Walked

Download this mp3 from Beemp3.com

My Reality

2011-02-13T20:21:00.000-08:00

2010 was the year I tried something new. 2010 was the year that the least athletic person I know (ahem, sadly, that is me) started working out, at a gym, with a personal trainer.

From July until about Christmas, I worked my butt off- literally. The "dirty thirties" had hit me hard over the past year and I was unhappy with the way my body looked. I didn't have the natural lean-ness I had in my twenties and I had lost a lot of muscle tone. I wasn't fat but I felt my body just looked "blah".

So I threw myself into working out. A first I was working out and/or taking fitness classes 4 or 5 days a week (training on 2 days), occasionally I'd go 6 days a week. It became an addiction almost. I lost 4.5% body fat. I felt strong. I could see muscles. I was so proud of my hard work and had no idea I could push my body out of its "comfort zone".

Unfortunately, after vacation I started slipping and slipping, down to 3 days, 2 days, 1 day. Now in the new year I've been 3 times. In a month and a half, I've worked out 3 times total. That's awful and a waste of my gym membership. And in the month and a half that I've been slacking off, I've gained back the weight I worked hard for 6 months at losing. I can't see my muscles anymore. I've been eating badly. My back hurts and my knees ache. I sometimes feel 80.

This is my confession. This weekend we went away to a mountain town with hot springs and I spent a good part of the past 3 days in a bathing suit. I've come to the realization that if I want to look like I think I should look and not feel like I'm 50 years older than I actually am, I'm probably going to have to continually work out. Forever, I suppose.

So that's my current reality. Back to the gym and backing away from the cake.

Life Sized Barbie: Color Blind

2011-02-06T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm a nerdy list maker. Occasionally, I will make the champion of nerdy lists: Ideas of outfits to wear to work. That sounds kind of weird and sad, right?

Wait, hear me out. I need these lists because I'm not a very functional morning person. I need a little prodding to get started in the morning so knowing what I'm going to wear prior to getting dressed really helps me move a lot quicker. One afternoon, I put this outfit on my "to try" list.

This is a J Crew cashmere cardigan in Light Blade. To me, it looks like a pale aqua seafoam. My Mister said it was lime green and told me I'm color blind. A name like "blade" would lead me to think its a grassy green so maybe I am...

Brown J Crew trouser cords, Zara printed tunic tee, not pictured: Sam Edelman bronze mary janes.

Unusual Obsessions

2011-02-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

These boots caught my eye while shoe shopping with my Mister the other day. I didn't even try them on, they're not really my current style. But I can't stop thinking about them...

Dolce Vita Adderly

But they are on sale and ship for free. Ugh, decisions decisions. I love the aged white finish and I need a pair of "walking around" shoes (ie not heels, something I can wear with socks, not runners). But do these work for ME?

Weekend Wants

2011-01-29T10:14:00.000-08:00

My lastest semblance of a wishlist...

A couple fitted, solid color polo shirts

A long, black solid knit black sweater with a boat or crew neck

I'd like this if it had a bit more length

A white tunic type shirt

I really like this one from JC but the fit could be sketchy

Black high heel ankle boots that don't have a wide opening (for my skinny ankles)

What's on your list?

The Accidental Hillbilly

2011-01-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

I woke up tired this morning. It's been a long week and I was so glad it's finally Friday. Friday is jeans day at work and I had cute new jeans, Daughters of the Liberation (on sale from Anthropologie) to wear.

Mid way through getting dressed I remembered I had a meeting with one of the department head honchos so I grabbed a buttondown shirt in lieu of a pullover.

Then I checked the forecast, which predicted snow. I opted for boots instead of shoes and grabbed my crazy pink cowboy boots for fun.

Uh-oh... patch pocket jeans... gingham checked shirt... cowboy boots. I unintentionally Elly May'd myself, ya'll!

A valuable lesson: Pieces that can be cute and funky on their own are not necessarily good together. (Also never take pictures at the end of the day after coming home. I look wiped out).

Happy Friday!

Inspiration for Spring

2011-01-26T19:41:00.000-08:00

I want a long, floor sweeping skirt

Jenny Lopez, she's so rad. She has the cutest blog.

I stole all these pics and I'm sorry. But isn't that what google image is for?

Make Up and Sweaters

2011-01-24T17:43:00.000-08:00

I have an obvious and well documented addiction to cardigan sweaters. An addiction that would put Mr Rogers to shame.

While shopping at J Crew on my pilgrimage to the fashion mecca this fall (aka: Ala Moana Mall in Hawaii), I must have tried on at least a dozen cardis. All different colors, styles and knits. I proudly showed restraint and came home with only two.

I was really surprised by this coppery green when I first saw it. Burnished Olive. My fashion advisors (my mother and cousin) weren't so sure. But after trying on navies, grey, and blush tones they agreed that Burnished Olive brought out a subtle brightness the others didn't.

Ben Sherman striped button down, J Crew cashmere cardigan, J Crew trouser cords in brown.

A few weeks ago I bought the Make Up Forever HD Foundation. I wanted to love it but I kind of didn't. I felt like I didn't get a good color match, too pale, too chalky. And that the foundation was streaky when I applied it. Can you tell I look a little ghosty in these pics?

Frustrated, I took it back to Sephora. On a whim, I grabbed Nars Firming Foundation because it hadn't changed the name of the color I used to wear in Nars Balanced- Mont Blanc. I watched a YouTube vid on applying it properly (with fingers, not a brush) and so far I'm loving it. Its a very natural finish, not makeuppy and isn't drying at all. It also comes in a pump which is excellent. I love Nars products, I always end up back with them.

Be Better

2011-01-23T18:31:00.001-08:00

My best friend/cousin uses this expression that always makes me laugh. If you goof up or do something totally klutzy, she'll turn to you with faux exasperation, and say BE BETTER.

Folks, I need to Be Better. I've had photos on my camera since before New Years. Some ok, some very delete worthy. Now that I'm working at a young, hip company, I've been having a little more fun with my attire. My company is quite a fashion show and I love it! It makes me want to Be Better.

My Mister's aunt gave me these KO of the J Brand Houlihan's for Christmas. Even though I'm starting to feel "over" skinny pants, I love these.

Nine West black pumps, black Club Monaco blazer, white men's style button down.

I'm still always learning about myself, fashion-wise. I'm discovering I can be a little more edgy or a little more girly or a little fancier and it's all ok. I can Be Better!

A Shout Out

2011-01-11T20:57:00.000-08:00

I like being hosted by Blogger. I've heard others complain but it rarely gives me any trouble. And Blogger has a nifty little statistics tool that lets you see all sorts of fun facts about your site....

Fun facts like what countries have viewed your blog, what links readers followed, and so on. Whenever I need a good chuckle, I check out my stats to see what kind of Google searches have lead people to PinkHondaCivic.

So this post is to salute all the disappointed pervs whose fetish searches has accidentally lead them to me.

shame on you

Regardless, thanks for stopping by and hopefully you'll enjoy some beauty product reviews and rants about the Gap's customer service.

Moving on...

I started my new job this week and its very cool. I've been in training for the past few days. Unfortunately I start 1 hour earlier every day than my last job so I haven't had time in the morning to take a "First Day!" OOTD pic.

However, I did wear my new J Crew Heritage Chinos in Shadow on Day 1. They are 100% pure LOVE

The rise is a little higher than the City Fit which is ok because if I'm wearing a button down shirt, it stays tucked in. Magic. They are perfectly long (even with heels!) and a good thick cotton chino.

My new workmates are quite fashionable. Its very refreshing. Its also challenging- I'm only heading into Day 3 and I've already spent a good couple hours considering my wardrobe options for the rest of the week. It's lovely though to be able wear heels and not have to hoof it across a gravel parking lot carrying a case of chrome polish.

Join the Professionals

2011-01-07T15:30:00.000-08:00

My new job starts Monday so I needed a new, professional look.

I am so inherently lazy about getting my hair cut. I color it every 4 weeks like clock work. I hadn't seen my stylist since the summer. Terrible.

I lost 2.5 inches of nasty, scraggly ends and I feel ready to give 100% next week!

Beauty Booty: The Haul Part 2

2011-01-04T19:43:00.000-08:00

Lately I've have been on a massive beauty binge. Lots of my products ran out at the same time so I had the opportunity to switch things up and buy all new product. And with new product comes those lovely little Sephora samples. And with new product comes my two cents.

Part 2: Make Up

As a sweet Christmas gift my Mom gave me a new set of make up brushes. I've never had a complete set of matching brushes before, I've just bought them as necessary. Thus my old brush collection is pretty sloppy looking. This new set is beautiful- ABT 10 Piece Standard Chrome brush set: all natural 100% vegan bristles; weighty chrome handles; and a case to house them all.

I really love these brushes. They are soooo soft. My favorites so far are the foundation brush, the big powder brush and the contour blush brush.

With new brushes, of course, I needed some new makeup. Luckily I had also been given a Sephora gc for Christmas as well.

My New Foundation Choice: Make Up Forever HD Liquid Foundation. As recommended by my Sephora consultant, apparently this is their best selling foundation. I used to be a hardcore Nars foundation junkie until they changed their formulas and the shade names so I decided to try something new. MUFE HD is pretty great. It has a bit of a "glowy" undertone to it so you don't get that flat dull Granny makeup. I like that a lot and the fact it comes in a pump! My only beef is it isn't very moisturizing and sometimes looks a little patchy on my really dry spots.

I also picked up Make Up Forever HD Microfinish Powder. I had heard/read lots about this and I wanted to love it. Unfortunately I didn't. It just made me too dry and I hated the finish of it on my skin. In fact, I took it back. Big thumbs down.

I had also heard rave reviews about Korres Abyssinia Oil Mascara. I wanted to love this too. But it was just ok, nothing special. The brush is really tiny and it takes forever to coat your lashes. For 3 times the price of Cover Girl Lash Blast, I decided to return. What can I say- Lash Blast Fusion is my Holy Grail Mascara- confirmed.

One of my samples was a teensy tube of Benefit Stay Don't Stray. It was so small I didn't think much of it and chucked it into the depths of my makeup bag. When my usual Urban Decay primer ran out, I reached for this on a whim. OMG I love it so much! It is so much better than UD! It is a bit wetter and goes on really smoothly. And it lasts and lasts, my shadow stays put all day. I will definitely re-buy this in a heartbeat!

*Please note all review items are either bought and paid for by me or are sample sizes usually from Sephora*

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T11:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2011, it's good to see you!

Beauty Booty: The Haul Part 1

2010-12-30T09:58:00.001-08:00

Part 1: Skin Care

My skin care regime needed work. For awhile I felt like my skin wasn't looking very good- dull, breakouts and I felt like I was starting to look a bit aged. Older than I thought I should look at 31. I needed help.

Fortunately, I had run out of both day and night cream so it was easy for me to start fresh. The only problem was...what to choose??? Drugstore, makeup counter, Sephora? There is an overwhelming amount of skin care choices. I started at Sephora, knowing that they have a great return policy so anything I wasn't happy with, I could always exchange.

My consultant was actually really helpful. She convinced me that my skin was combination, not dry (hence the breakouts on my chin) and that I didn't look as ancient as I felt I did. She pointed me in the direction of the Korres lineup from Greece. I walked out with

Korres Milk Proteins Foaming Cream Cleanser

Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Antiwrinkle Day Cream

Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiwrinkle Night Cream

These products are nothing less than incredible. I'm a big fan of creamy cleansers. It is neither drying nor greasy/filmy. It works great with my batter powered handheld face washer/exfoliator (until I save up enough for the Clarisonic, that is) and rinses clean. It could do a better job at makeup removal but the handheld pretty much takes care of that.

The two creams are really special. I hate having a smelly perfumy face! One of my biggest beefs with skin care is the crazy smells they put in the products. Both of them have a very light, very unisex, kind of woodsy smell. I really like the smell a lot. Its almost like a combination of a forest and English custard? Sounds weird but smells yum.

Not only is the smell great, the products work fabulously. I've already noticed a huge difference in the texture and hydration of my skin. I have a very expressive face- and a creased forehead to go with it. Since using these products I have already noticed that my expression lines have become much less noticeable and smoother.

I think I like the night cream slightly more, just because it's thicker and my skin gets thirsty in the winter months. My opinion may change in the summer. But I love that the day cream comes in a pump. Definitely I will re-buy.

One of my free samples was the Sephora brand Pink Grapefruit Sorbet body butter. I love any citrus smells so I was all over this. Sweet, tart and fresh. The lotion is thick and rich and soaks into your skin beautifully. I've been using it on my dry heels and I can't get enough of it. I have never bought Sephora brand lotion or bath product but I may buy this when it runs out. My sample tub was huge!

My last item is something I don't actually have, but am waiting for in the mail. When I was on vacation, my cousin- the reigning queen of skin care- introduced me to an exfoliator that is so lovely I couldn't stop thinking about it after I came home. It the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant. Made of rice powder, its gentle enough for every day use. I felt like my skin positively glowed after using this. It is smooth and creamy and does an amazing job exfoliating, I just love it. Unfortunately, its $75 in Canada and only one or two salons sell it.

Lucky for me, I just found it on eBay for half of that! I'm excited for it to arrive.

Stay tuned for part 2: Makeup! Featuring Benefit's eye primer, Korres mascara and MUFE HD Powder

*Please note all review items are either bought and paid for by me or are sample sizes usually from Sephora*

Green and Blue

2010-12-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

When I get dressed in the morning, I tend to stick with simple color palettes. I think this explains my love of all things grey. Grey is easy. Grey matches a lot of things, including other greys.

Every once in a while I'll stumble across something I wouldn't normally put together and surprise myself. Green and blue? That's not something I would do! (and suddenly, I'm Dr Seuss)

Outfit is 100% J Crew. Its a sickness.

I really like how the tones of green and blue played with each other and stood out against the plain greys. Maybe I could be a colorful dresser after all.

Lackadaisical

2010-12-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

Hello.

I thought about this blog post for a while attempting to write something down. You know how sometimes someone sends you an email and you're too busy to reply at first or you don't really know what to say? Then as time goes on you keep forgetting about it and then its too late to reply without looking like a dick? This is similar to my blog life.

December was a rough month for me. I was literally exhausted the whole month. Like "the newest young celebrity starlet goes into rehab" type exhausted. I couldn't bring myself to blog. I could barely even read blogs. My RSS feed kept building and building and I just felt so out of it. I tried to take some OOTD pictures but I feel like every photo I look like a zombie- red eyes, dark circles, blank stare. Nothing post worthy.

However, things are looking up! I am pleased and proud to say that after an exhausting search, countless interviews and numerous hits to my self-esteem, I GOT A NEW JOB!!! I'm thrilled. I start early January.

We had an awesome Christmas with lots of family around, great food and lots of love. I couldn't have asked for a nicer holiday season.

Anyway, while I was gone from the blog I did do a little shopping and got a bit of gifting, obviously since it is the holiday season. Some of my favorite purchases/gifts as of late and some recent arrivals:

We finally had our first Anthropologie store open. I was given this beautiful Tracy Reese "Hortulan" skirt and Deletta "Coral Petal" top.

I'm excited to have an Anthro close since sizing always seems to be a problem ordering online. I went in the other day and there was a 25 minute line up to check out. Uh oh Anthro... It appears I wasn't the only one excited for it. It wasn't even opening day.

I also placed a J Crew order for some basics with my Christmas loot and their Boxing Day 30% off/free shipping SHOPNOW code.

Heritage Chinos in Shadow and Saltwater.

J Crew Jackie in Hyacinth. I can't see the name Hyacinth without thinking of...

but I think she'd approve of pretty purple cardigans.

And I treated myself to a J Crew Cashmere crew neck cardi. I have it in the Burnished Olive and it is as soft as a baby kitten, I love cashmere so fricking much.

I'm excited to have a new gig to wear my new clothes to. My goal-slash-new year's resolution is to create a great working wardrobe. Not stains, no rips, nothing that I might fuss with and hate halfway through the day. Just classic, wearable pieces.

I'll be back soon, I swear. I have a few OOTDs and a beauty post coming up. No more blogger break.

Liar

2010-11-26T11:09:00.001-08:00

So I said before that I never wear skirts and tights in the winter. Welllll.... I kind of fibbed. This week started out at -30 and then shot up to a balmy -1 degree C yesterday. So I couldn't help but bust out a cute corduroy skirt with some textured tights.

J Crew corduroy skirt in Rhubarb, Joe Fresh black wool crochet tights, Portugese gypsy market boots, random black jersey top from Winners. And a cute mutt peeking in.

I really love this skirt, as I do with anything corduroy from J Crew. But I find the color hard to work with. I almost wore my dark wine/burgundy riding boots with it but the shades just weren't quite right together. But I think brown, navy, grey, white and black, of course work really well with this shade. But to be honest, I'm not sure what colors to compliment a Bright Rhubarb palette. Can I throw in some Glazed Honey yellow, dusty violet or Pistachio without looking like a nutjob?

In saying that, I really miss my Bright Rhubarb chinos and I wish I hadn't been so afraid of them and thusly, gotten rid of them. Kendi Everyday makes bright pants look so cute and I'm jealous!

3 Variations on a Theme

2010-11-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

And the theme is freezing my ass off. Literally. We have had -30 degree C weather all week.

My goal has only been to try and stay warm so I have piled on layers upon layers. Every day I've had to wear long johns under my pants because its just so bitterly cold, boots, sweaters, etc etc.

Can you count the layers? I have on sock and underwear, of course; long johns; a tank; pants and a long sleeve yoga T from Joe Fresh; and this Express fleece military jacket. It kept me snug all day long.

Once again, more long johns under pants. I washed all my sweaters this weekend in preparation for winter and remembered this vintage gem I had. It was my moms sweater in college and I love it. Its so warm and has a great texture.

I love wearing scarves in winter but I always get a crazy hair thing happening at the back of my neck. Scarf from Old Navy, chambray shirt from Jacob, Alfred Sung navy cardigan, J Crew cords. And of course, long johns.

I'm not one of these people who can suck it up in winter and wear a skirt or tights. I need to be warm! I'm hoping this is an unseasonable cold snap and we're actually going to have a mild winter. Pleaseeeee?

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends!

Jamaica Ska

2010-11-17T18:38:00.001-08:00

Recently, I was trying to go visit a good friend of mine that I haven't been able to see in almost 3 years. But plans fell apart and sadly, I didn't make it out.

So the boy and I had a few days off, two plane tickets and a little extra cash... what were we we to do? How about jet off to Jamaica for 5 days!!!

We had an absolute ball. I can not say enough good things about Jamaica. The people were so incredible, we met so many nice folks (both locals and other visitors). The food was unbelievable. The weather was steller. We had an absolute blast! I highly, highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, relaxing getaway. Particularly the Breezes Trelawny Resort in Falmouth, outside Montego Bay.

I was having such a ball (re: I was a little blotto'd) that I hardly took any pics. However, one night on my way to dinner, I managed to capture a OOTD.

I get cold in air conditioning that I like to keep covered up. Joe Fresh jersey dress, Joe Fresh skinny belt, drapey cardigan by Chris and Carol Apparel, Steve Madden flats.

*By the way... yes, I did go to Hawaii a month ago. 2 vacations, 1 month. Spoiled much?*

The Break Up

2010-11-07T16:55:00.000-08:00

I've had it with Lululemon.

I'm sorry, but we are over. Done. Fini. One hundred dollar workout wear is a trend that I just can't get on board with.

It's not that I don't like Lululemon, I do. I think their styles are cute and their Tall pants fit great. Its just that, wellll... I'm cheap. I rarely spend $100 on work pants, much less pants that I get all gross and sweaty in. And I'm lazy, I can't be bothered to specially wash workout pants. If it can't go in the dryer with socks and 20 other things, I don't want it. I've spent way too much money on Lulu's that have pilled almost right away... are you kidding me with that?

Admittedly, I'm currently on the bitter bus. The other day I left my nearly new Lululemon Still Pants at the gym and someone took them. They took my pants. Instead of turning them into the lost and found, some girl took my stinky sweaty used pants. How weird and gross is that???

So I've decided workout pants worth nicking are not worthing having. Instead I took a little shopping trip to my local grocery store for some new Joe Fresh items. It's quickly becoming my favorite place for easy, comfy pieces!

I bought a new pair of sweet cropped sweats for $14. They are so soft and heavenly, I bought all 3 colors. I love the little tie front and the cut of them, narrow without being tight. A little bit retro, like Danny Zuko running track and field.

I also picked up the long sleeve seen here in both purple and fuschia. It's 100% cotton, baby soft and has little sewn in "sweat vents". The sleeves are long enough for me which is a huge bonus too! I needed some warm layers for upcoming winter workouts. I think these were $12, if I remember correctly.

I ended up with 5 workout items for less than 1 pair of Lululemon pants. And for this I'm happy. Sorry Lulu, I've moved on and met someone else.

Disappointment

2010-11-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

I bought all those new items on vacation. They are hanging in my closet, waiting for me to pluck them out for their debut each morning. Yet I don't....

I feel like I want to keep them special for a bit longer. And wearing them to work would make them less special. To be honest, I had my hopes up that I would have a new job and a new place to wear my new clothes by now. I am slightly disappointed.

My disappointment shows by recycling old pieces over again.

I did wear my new black Express Editor pants, however. Annnnd.... then promptly spilled diet Coke all over them at 9:30 am (please note, I wasn't drinking the elixir of evil. I merely knocked a can onto the floor and it burst open). So much for my nice new trousers.

Express Editors in black (long), Alfred Sung cream ruffle sweater, pink Jacob long sleeve T, beige Joe Fresh skinny patent belt. I did wear shoes too eventually... how many bloggers do you know who take pics in their socks? I try to blog reality.

Now that we are into winter, its really dark in the morning. I have to turn on all the lights in the house to get a decent shot and its still yellowy. It sucks, I miss summer already.

Beauty Booty: The Classic

2010-10-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

My confession- I got lazy with my skin recently and I paid for it. I had breakouts like crazy and I basically felt and looked like crap. Even my boss would randomly comment on how shitty my face looked. Wonderful.

I then spent two weeks on vacation with my favorite cousin, who is the undisputed Queen of Skincare and I realized what a skincare sloth I'd become. I didn't even bother to pack a cleanser!

Fortunately, she whipped me back into shape. Starting with a classic favorite I haven't used since high school~ Oxy Triple Action cleansing pads! The smell took me right back to 1996 but it worked like a charm and zapped my breakouts. I now use them nightly and I'm totally in love, for $4 to boot.

She also gave my a plethora of skincare samples. I'll finish them up, decide what I love and do a review here in a week or two. I'm really lusting over a Clarisonic Cleansing System and hoping I'll get one soon too.

I've been pretty happy with my hair lately. I wear it straight a lot but when I have the time, I use my hot rollers (and a few curling iron touch ups). I do need a bit of a hair cut soon but I'm loving my length lately.

I'm still very very happy with my John Frieda Blonde products~ seen here. I'll definitely re-buy them.

Hella Good (hella just ok)

2010-10-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Before I went away, my love o' my life and I went on a little date night.

It was great, we hit up a restaurant we don't normally go to a lot. We tend to go to a few of our favorite places over and over but we recently pledged to start trying to branch out a bit.

Annnnyway, story of my life, I had a hard time picking out something to wear. I am beginning to realize that I have a hole in my wardrobe in the "casual going out/date night" clothing section. Jeans, heels, blah. What do you like to wear for nights out?

Gap Always Skinny jeans, Anthro jersey cardigan, J Crew grey Rolling Ruffles tank, Aldo shoes

I back combed my bangs into a poof (with a ponytail) and Mister called me Gwen Stefani before we left. Har har.

I wasn't thrilled with this outfit, I think I could have done better. I'm starting to get over skinny jeans a bit. I just bought a pair of Seven Dojos, I think the wide leg are much more flattering for me.

**Completely Unrelated Sidenote: Doesn't my blue carpet sometimes look like I'm floating in the pictures~ oooh**

Returned

2010-10-26T18:47:00.000-07:00

I am back from vacation. Many things happened while I was in Hawaii, namely:

I had "the Pina Colada Song" stuck in my head for two weeks straight. No lie, I just about gave myself a lobotomy.
I snorkelled with sea turtles. Amazing
I drank the best margarita of my life. At Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, naturally
I spent a shit-ton of money shopping and love every single thing I bought like crazy

At J Crew:

Other goodness:

2 pairs of Nine West pumps- black and bronze

a pair of leopard flats to replace my dead Steve Maddens

2 pairs of Express Editor pants

and an Express majorette knit jacket which is super cosy

Back with some in-real-life outfit shots soon!

Kisses

2010-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have a slight addiction to YouTube makeup tutorials. I love make up and wish I was better at applying it. Sadly, I'm kind of a makeup fail. A basic face I can do, but getting into shading, liquid liners, false lashes... I completely fall apart.

A few weeks ago I watched a tutorial about bright lips. Since them I have been absolutely dying for a bright lipstick! Sometimes being a blond is funny, I feel like brunettes and darker haired ladies have an easier time pulling off brightly colored make up. I'm afraid of looking like the lovechild of Barbie and a clown.

On a whim, I grabbed a cheap-ola NYC lipstick at the drug store, while buying other exciting items like hair dye, soap and razors. I haven't had an NYC product since I was a kid but gratefully, they are a lot nicer quality than I remember. In my early 20's, I was a full fledged MAC makeup addict. Over the years I've realized their products are really kind of "meh" for me. Ok but not really worth the price tag. It kills me to think of how many $18 lipsticks I have bought over the years. Ugh.

Since its a trend I'm not too sure about, $1.47 is definitely the way to go. I purchased NYC Air Kiss 404- a strawberry pinky red. I really like it! The texture is great; smooth and satiny and the color is richly pigmented without being goopy or waxy.

I like it! Bright make up is fun!

Closet Dweller

2010-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I don't follow a lot of fashion shows but I am crazy in love with the recent Spring 2011 Dsquared2 collection!

How hot is this? (other than the scary orange tan)

Loving Geek Chic!

I think this will be my inspiration for my upcoming J Crew/shopping in the USA spree. Sexy, chic nerd wear.

I would really like a neutral shirtdress, some grey trousers, skinny bright belts and accessories, tweed blazer and maybe some more pencil skirts.

These BCBG tuxedo pants were another shoved-to-the-back-of-the-closet item that now fits me again. I bought them years ago but haven't really worn them that much. I'm honestly not a big fan of BCBG items, however I recently got a $100 gift certificate for there from an event.

J Crew sheer ruffled collar T, plain cotton cami, BCBG tuxedo pants, Aldo skinny belt, Steve Madden Kinnetic flats.

Pack List

2010-10-03T17:16:00.000-07:00

A week from today, I will be on vacation. I can't wait! 2 weeks in Hawaii with my mom and favorite cousin will be heavenly.

I have been to Hawaii quite a few times. I've managed to put together a packing list that is pretty much standard every time I go: flip flops, bikinis, sundresses, tank tops. I travel light. The last time I went with my Mister, though, I felt a little under dressed. I didn't have enough "night time" outfits. For this trip I wanted to keep it light but versatile; casual by day and cute by night.

This pack list gave me some trouble. I just couldn't figure out what to bring for shoes. My feet tend to swell in the heat and I sadly have a very limited selection of summer foot wear. I literally hemmed and hawed for a number of weeks over my shoe options. Aside from the obvious flip flop, what could I bring to dress up my usual selection of sundresses, ruffly J Crew tanks and a pair of skinny cropped pants?

I almost cracked under the pressure and took a pair of closed-toe heels. Closed toe? In Hawaii??? Fortunately one of my frequent fashion forums helped me see the error of my ways.

This morning I went through every shoe box in my closet hoping that the shoe fairies had come overnight bearing gifts. Lucky for me, they had! I forgot about theses babies... I've had them for years. My first purchase in Rome in 2002, I marched into the first shoe store I could find and without speaking a word of Italian, bought these in seconds. How could I forget about these little darlings?

1 pair of Old Navy denim shorts
1 pair of Old Navy cropped skinny pants
red wrap skirt made my mom, seen here
yellow Old Navy sundress, seen here
red H&M sundress, seen here
pink jersey Joe Fresh sundress
grey Joe Fresh sheath dress, seen here
cotton batik Joe Fresh dress, thrifted, seen here
J Crew Rolling Ruffles tank
J Crew Cascading Petals tank
random grey striped tank
Anthro grey T
red Miz Mooz wedge heels
the aforementioned Italian sandals

Now I'm completely satisfied with my packing list. I am ready to go!

Training Day

2010-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

For the past 10 weeks I have been busting my ass- literally.

I have a gym membership to a pretty swanky gym; it was won by my Mister who isn't into working out, so he gave it to me. Since the membership was free, I decided to use my company benefits to buy some sessions with a personal trainer. These are also technically free, since my company reimburses me for them. As we all know, free stuff is my friend.

So for the past 10 weeks, I have been working with a trainer twice a week for an hour each time. I have discovered something new about myself- I love working out! I really really do! I am the least athletic person on the planet, but I have learned I like pushing myself and my body to new limits. In addition to 2 hours of training per week, I also try to work out on my own twice and take a class, usually Ab Solution or Zumba. I am a gym nut!

My first week, I had to do a fitness assessment with my trainer. BMI, measurements, heart rate, etc. It wasn't as bad as I had thought, I had a mental image of myself as a skinny fat person. Thin but 50% lard. It turns out, I was right smack in the middle of the "average" category. Ok, good enough.

Now, 10 weeks and countless squats, bicep curls and lunges later, I got to be re-measured. I am so pleased and excited to announce- I have lost 4.5% body fat and 6" off my waist!!! I had no idea that in 10 weeks this was even possible!!! I had no idea that was possible- ever.

I'm not going to lie, I feel awesome. I'm proud of myself. I honestly can say I never knew I could do it. I was expecting a change of maybe 1-2%. Unfortunately, I also lost 3" of boob...haha. My clothes do fit nicer, I am able to wear some items I had stashed in the back of my closet and I had to give away my "fat day" jeans after I took them off without unbuttoning them.

This sweater has come out to play since it no longer rides up and lets my food baby hang out. Burgundy Club Monaco faux wrap sweater, J Crew brown cords, Payless peeptoe tweed shoes (that hurt my feet).

Lucky for me I still have 8 more weeks of personal training session- I'm excited to see what else I can do!

No Excuses

2010-09-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

I really have no excuse for not posting. Busyness. Laziness. Job huntiness. Yes, I'm still looking for work, I don't want to leap into just any old job. Picky? Maybe. But I want to succeed and I want to do it right.

Some times I wake up in the morning and I have to talk myself into getting out of bed. Convince myself to face the day ahead. To inspire myself, I try to wear something fun.

I've always had trouble pairing things with this Tahari skirt. The oyster color and the pale pink stripe throws me off. However, one morning while staring into my closet I realized my new (thrifted) J Crew top matched perfectly.

I feel very "assistant/secretary" in this. Recently I did a personality test that told me my best matched career is an Administrative Assistant. FML.

J Crew mandarin collar blouse, Elie Tahari pencil skirt, Alfred Sung navy cardigan, Arnold Churgin navy heels, Joe Fresh beige patent skinny belt.

Oh yeahhhh... have I mentioned I love this stupid belt? I was browsing my favorite grocery store clothing chain when I found this belt on clearance for $1.99. Ridiculous!

I stole this shirt from my Mister and I love it. Its perfectly drapey and tunic like. Gap Always Skinny black jeans. Le Chateau riding boots.

I have more interviews coming up so please spare a few good vibes for me :)

Busy Girl

2010-09-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry for neglecting the blog once again. I have been a busy bee lately. September is speeding past at an unbelievable rate! It can't possibly be mid-month already, can it?

I'll leave you with my latest purchase that has been getting a bunch of wear: my new suit. I went out and got (thanks Mom who spoiled me with a new suit and good luck vibes) a new 3-piece suit from Club Monaco. It includes a pencil skirt and the jacket is beautifully cut and silk lined. A good buy at $500 for all 3 pieces.

Seriously hardworking.

Please send some good job vibes my way!

Flower Child Awesomeness

2010-09-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

I am a proud member of the absolute best fashion forum on the 'net: Stylethread. I have been a member longer than I care to think about but have met some amazing women who I consider close friends through it.

One wonderful woman I have "met" (not actually in person, mind you, though I have known her for years) runs her own Etsy shop making gorgeous headbands, barrettes and jewelry.

DaisyPetalDesigns

I have always admired her pretty pieces, however I am not a headband wearer. Wire/plastic headbands always hurt my noggin. Recently, she released some stretchy headbands and I was sold! I ordered the Autumn Flowers Headband.

I love getting stuff in the mail

Pretty shades of purple, green, teal and gold!

So pretty!! I love it!!!

Check out her shop and her blog and "Like" DaisyPetalDesigns on Facebook!

*Disclaimy business: Everything I review is bought and paid for by me. I am not affiliated with DaisyPetalDesigns other than being a fan and an internet friend*

An Open Letter to The Gap

2010-08-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Gap,

I like to think that you and I are close. We've been good buddies for years. Your Always Skinny jeans are amazing, like a dream in denim form. Your long sleeve thermal tees are likely made of angel kisses and cotton candy.

Which is why when I heard that you were going to be shipping to Canada on your website, I was thrilled. Thrilled! I had visions of ordering the all of the tall versions of the clothes I swoon over in store that just don't quite fit my 5'11" frame. I was excited, Gap. I thought this would bring you and I even closer.

However, today I logged on to do a little online browsing. I'm sorry to say... I'm disappointed.

For instance, I have fallen head-over-heels with the Herringbone Band Blazer. Isn't it delightful?

Sadly, Gap Canada doesn't carry the Tall sizes (or the Petites for that matter). I guess the Gap figures Canada only has average-sized citizens. Average-sized, oil sands loving citizens (but that's a whole other topic as well...) But worse than that, the website touts about not charging extra taxes or duty- THAT'S BECAUSE YOU ALREADY JACKED THE PRICE BY 20.5%

Gap, that's seriously weak. My beloved blazer is $118 compared to the US's $98. When our dollar is practically on par. In fact, as I write this it's just 95 cents; if I were to purchase it from the US ~which I may~ I'd still only pay $103.00. What does the other $15.00 account for?

Gap, I hope this is just a minor glitch while you get the kinks worked out of the Canadian online ordering system. I'd really hate for this to come between us.

Love,

Blondie

Epic Thrifting Adventures

2010-08-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Very recently, I had 2 good friends from work both quit. Its a bummer since I now have no one to eat lunch with. To remedy my lunch time loneliness, I sometimes go shopping on my lunch break- bad!

However, a few blocks away from work is a massive thrift store. Since I am slowly getting back into thrifting, I decided to check it out one day during my break.

Holy mother of pearl! The thrift gods were shining down upon me that day! I had the most epically amazing thrift score in the history of (my) thrifting!

1.) New without tags, J Crew blue cotton button down shirt. In exactly my size.

2.) New, dark blue wash Gap Always Skinny jeans. The blue version of my favorite black jeans. They are so dark still, they look unworn and unwashed. They left indigo on my hands the first time I wore them. Exactly in my size.

(catsitting for Mister's sister. Sorry about the catbutt)

3.) New without tags (you could still see the factory fold lines) J Crew banded collar button down shirt in pale rose. Again exactly in my perfect size. Who would give away these brand new items?

(black cords are J Crew and clogs are from a street market in Italy. Both are mine, not thrifted)

I also bought a gorgeous, unlabelled grey sheath dress that fits like a glove. All for under $40. My thrift also had a brand new with tags brown J Crew pants suit. Sadly it was just a bit too small and I left it behind.

But I couldn't believe my luck! It was the most awesome thrifting day. I can't believe someone would give away such awesome brand new items!

Fall Trends

2010-08-28T18:06:00.002-07:00

Some trends I love for Fall:

skinny cargos

classic black pants

ladylike plaid dresses

Today feels like fall already. It was cool and rainy and I had to turn the furnace back on this morning. Though we really didn't get much of a summer this year, I'm excited for the return of tights and boots; and the fall trends leaning towards pretty, classic, dressy work wear. Pretty wool sheath dresses and classic cut trousers. Love!

Keeping Up with The Joneses

2010-08-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Pardon my lack of posts lately. I'm suffering from massive brain drain, life drain. All of my creativity has been sucked out in the form of resumes and cover letters, unfortunately not leaving much left over for blog posts.

However, onward and upwards!

Recently, I watched a great movie called The Joneses, starring Demi Moore and David Duchovny. The premise of the movie was about a family who markets the best of the best products to high end neighbourhoods, thus "keeping up with the Joneses". Its a great watch, highly recommended. Demi Moore looked like a million bucks in the movie, she is beautiful.

In the film, the daughter Jenn Jones, played by Amber Heard who is also stunning, has a great sense of style. She wears a lot of scarves around her neck on different outfits. I love the look, very sophisticated without looking old or dowdy and adds a point of interest to a plain outfit.

Since I have a ton of scarves, and not much cash lately to buy new items, I thought it would be fun to try adding a scarf to a plain old work outfit to change up my look. This scarf happens to be a favorite. It was given to me by the sister of my ex-boss and I love it, its such amazing soft silk.

J Crew Saturday pants in navy, Forever 21 white camp shirt, Old Navy velvet flats.

I really like this. It was fun, added some color and was just different, in a good way. The best part of this outfit was that the next day one of my co-workers wore a printed silk scarf tied around the neck of her shirt also. Keeping up with the Joneses indeed!

Loving Lately

2010-08-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

Lately I have an obsession with Camp Shirts...

Old Navy Camp shirt comes in so many pretty, rich colors and has rib knit sides for those of us who have "global endowments"- $24.50

The Gap Boyfriend Banker shirt~ very cute at $18

Anthropologie Hasbrouck Button-up~ $98 a silky feminine version in cream or navy

I bought a perfect white camp shirt at Forever 21 a few months ago for $24. As seen here.

Delinquent

2010-08-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

My wardrobe has, as I'm sure most everyone does, a couple of problem children. Items that in theory I like but in the real world, just don't quite cut it.

Lately, the few times I've been out shopping I have seen items I like, but have waited on them. Upon returning to it a few days/weeks/months later, it's not like I remember it to be. Not as nice, doesn't look as good.

It makes me think of pieces I have in my current wardrobe... if I had waited it out and thought about it more, would I have still bought it?

This J Crew cable knit pullover sweater is one of my problem children. It has its good points: the color; the softness. But it also has its bad points: it's a tad short and rides up; I don't find the cut/style very versatile.

What do you do with a problematic sweater? How do you wear it so it doesn't look the same every time? How can I stop automatically defaulting to wearing it with black?

Beauty Booty: Extend Me

2010-08-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

I really like playing around with my hair. Color, bangs, long, short: whatever. Hair doesn't scare me, it always grows back.

My cousin introduced me to the wonderful world of clip on extensions. I was wearing them originally for volume only, as my hair is so fine. Recently I made a new set and haven't gotten around to trimming them yet.

I'm really tempted to leave them as is, just for something different. They aren't expensive- since I do them myself they cost under $20 a set. And I've never had long goldie locks. Even as a little girl I was always subjected to the shorty bowl cut.

They make me feel like a mermaid. My natural hair needs to grow out just a wee bit more, right now the back is too blunt to blend in properly. But soon enough I think I can wear them out for fun.

Speaking of hair products, I picked up a toning shampoo at the drugstore last week. The summer sun can make me a bit brassy and I was hoping a purple shampoo would help me out.

I picked up John Frieda Tone Restoring shampoo and conditioner (hey, they were on sale...)

All I can say is AMAZING! I absolutely love them. Not only is the toning a miracle, they give great body, moisture and softness. Plus it came with samples of Perfecting Glosser and Shimmer Hairspray.

I don't tend to use a lot of hair product but I'm pleasantly surprised by the Glosser. It isn't heavy or greasy. I dab a bit on my ends and I tames any inkling of flyaways. And its really shiny. The hairspray isn't sticky and gives good hold. I would probably buy both once I use up the samples. Best of all the samples are pretty hearty for free stuff- all in all I'm extremely pleased with the John Frieda products.

Stone Cold Bush

2010-08-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

Sometimes seeing myself in pictures makes me LOL. What did the camera do to deserve such a stone cold glare? Is that oh-so-happy lass actually me?

These are the J Crew pants I hand dyed ages and ages ago. They have faded to a trippy, slightly streaky green but I still love 'em. This wasn't a good day for me- I feel too sloppy, unstyled, art teacher-ish. This sweater bugs me, I think its time for the thrift heap.

I want... to go eat some sushi. Yum!

I need... a new washer and dryer. My old one is acting up and I think it's nearing the end of it's life.

I hate... my job right now. To the point where I have cried, more than once. Its so bad, I wish I could talk about it here but I can't. Just trust me.

I love... that every morning my Mister wakes me up with a cute funny text on his way to work. And buys me iPhone apps. And mails me presents as a surprise.

Works for Me

2010-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about what works for me, clothes wise.

I have a challenging body to dress, I think. To start with, I'm leggy- I need to find pants that are at least 34" inseam, 36" if I want to wear heels. Ditto with long sleeves.

I'm small on top but I wear a D cup so sometimes button down tops can throw me for a loop. I love the look of a crisply buttoned shirt, I just need to find tops with hidden snaps or nicely tapered side seams to give me some extra waist definition.

I don't have an typical "hour glass" or "boyish" figure, I'm somewhere in between. I've recently realized that I need to make smarter choices when purchasing pieces. I have ended up with some things that just aren't quite right for my body type.

Button/clasp front skirts- I'm a pencil skirt girl. Pencil skirts flatter my long legs and give me some shape around the hips. Button front skirts tend to bunch up right at the gut, which is not cool with me.

Drapey stuff- I don't know, there is just something about droopy, drapey jersey sweaters and pants that I think ages me. Makes me feel like an old hippie art teacher.

Skinny Pants- I'm really torn on the skinny pants issue. I like them but I just wish they looked a bit more balanced. My calves are narrow and some skinnies make me look way out of proportion. My Mister doesn't think that skinnies flatter me.

Shrugs- Gives me a weird proportion. Long arms and long body with a teensy sweater. Not good.

This outfit is typically me and it works ok. J Crew pants- not too skinny or drapey. Just a regular classic cotton pant. Tommy Hilfiger silk empire waist blouse- this particular top gives me a little more waist definition without squashing my chest, like empires tend to. Old Navy flats.

Saving My Pennies

2010-08-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that lately I've been wearing a lot of older items, trying to remix a lot and staying out of the mall. I haven't posted many change room photos at all recently, now that I think about it.

I. Am. Not. Shopping.

Not joking, I am not shopping almost at all. Its a little crazy even for me. I'm trying to intensely save my money because...

this girl is off to the beach!

That's right, I'm taking a little trip to Hawaii with my favorite cousin and my momma. A little girly break. We are so excited! But I'm going to be away from my Mister for the first time since our first year dating. Sad! Lonely! Nervous!

I really need a break from work though, I'm becoming a serious headcase. And I'm not even joking about that.

So between saving money for a Hawaii shopping spree (hi J Crew!!!) and working out, I've had zero time to cruise the mall and my favorite internet shopping sites. But come October I will hopefully have a whole schwack of new looks to share. Please bear with my remixes until then :)

Life Size Barbie: Red All Over

2010-08-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

More grey-black-red, I'm loving it lately!

This summer has had some royal suckage, weather wise. It has rained a ton and has been cool. I'm wearing a cardigan in August for chissakes. Where are you Mr Sun?

All old repeat pieces I think, except the tank. Grey striped asymmetric tank from Winners (aka TJ Maxx); Old Navy skinny pants; Alfred Sung ruffled cheapola cardigan; Miz Mooz wedges.

Almost sort of an outtake: Trying to wedge my whole 5'11" bod into the frame. I need a Gorilla Pod tripod like...yesterday.

Peek a boo

Life Size Barbie: Old Pieces

2010-08-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have certain clothes that you love and have worn until they are practically threadbare, yet you can't bear to give them away?

Both my cardigan and my top were purchased at least 7 years ago, probably more. They weren't expensive to begin with- the pink rosebud cardigan was an Old Navy clearance purchase and the orange/coral paisley T was from a mall store "Ricki's". Yet, they have both held up beautifully and I love them to death. Sometimes cheap doesn't necessarily mean crappy.

I have been working out intensively for 3 weeks now. And eating well, I try to stay around 1400 calories per day. Dare I say, I am starting to see improvement. Not in my weight- I tend to rock back and forth between the same 3 lbs. But I am starting to notice less girth around my torso and just generally more firmness, tightness and muscle definition. This top is a fairly clingy knit and I notice it's not accentuating my middle like it used to- a very good thing indeed!

By the way, this is my front hall entrance way. Not a bad place for pics I think so far.

Intense/In Tents

2010-08-07T12:45:00.001-07:00

What a crazy month August is turning out to be! I've had a lot going on lately. I've been working out with a trainer twice a week as well as working out on my own twice a week. It's been really challenging as well as stimulating and I really like my personal trainer. We had a mass exodus at work where 3 of my nearest-and-dearest coworkers all quit within a week of each other. Then, My Mister and I took a few days away to go camping with some friends.

Camping was a blast. We swam in the lake and went on a couple hikes; it was gorgeous. It was almost painful to go back to work after having such a relaxing weekend.

Lately in the mornings, there has been so much sun streaming in my windows that its becoming harder and harder to take OOTD pictures that accurately show color and detail.

I've really been in to black/grey, white and red combos lately. Its such a classic color scheme.

My shoes are a bright red leather- Miz Mooz Farah red peeptoe wedges. My mom bought them and then decided they were too narrow for her. One of the perks to having small feet! I adopted them and they are total LOVE.

White button down- Forever 21, belt- Forever 21, black & white printed skirt- bought at a market stall in Camden Market in London.

I'm going to try to mix it up and find new spots in the house to take some shots that aren't quite so sunny.

Another Post Featuring The Word Shit

2010-07-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

I have a very bad dog for sale... any takers???

Kidding, kidding. I'd never get rid of my baby girl, although this morning I was very tempted to set her free into the wilderness of the dog park.

You see, this morning my mom and I went on our weekly walk to the local park where we chat and catch up on the week and the doggies play and swim in the river. It's a beautiful sunny day today and the park was nearly empty.

Coming towards the end of our journey, my little girl was running around and frisking in the bushes. Which is not unusual. But she comes out and I notice her fur looks... odd- shiny, a little slick maybe? And brown? Then I catch a whiff of the down wind...

OH MY GOD!!!

My dog rolled in shit!! And she is coated in it. And she reeks. Like shit!!!

OH MY GOD!!!!

Fortunately, I was able to throw her back in the river to swim around until she was clean enough to go in the back of the car. Then I came home and gave her a hose bath in the yard (which she hated). And then two more baths in the tub. I just about puked.

Now, I'm not sure if I can or even should speculate on the nature of the shit but I believe it was human. No word of a lie. It looked and stank like a big nasty dump. And this spring the removed the public restrooms from the park so that junkies and sexual deviants could no longer use the bathrooms as their personal playground. I don't want to think someone would poop in the bushes but they probably would.

So yeah, my dog is officially a shit head.

Cheap Shit

2010-07-24T00:18:00.001-07:00

I have an admitted addiction to cheap trendy clothes. I like shopping at Old Navy, Zara, Joe Fresh, and their counterparts. For one thing, I feel like style changes so quickly that buying expensive trendy clothes is a bit of a waste. Classics, yes. Trends, no. For another thing, I am working poor. I can't really afford to buy expensivey stuff. I make a decent wage but after mortgage and bills and groceries and life, I have enough to save for a nice getaway every once in a while and a few cute cheapish prices. Such is life, it's not meant to be a sob story by any means.

I tend to obsess over buying cheap items a little more than I used to over more expensive things, say when I lived at home and had lots of expendable cash. I really like to ensure that that particular item is really going to be the most practical way to spend my meager allowance.

I try to be as honest as possible on my blog (without revealing my entire life and identity); it is after all an online chronicle of my life at this time. So I will be honest and tell you that I live on a (self imposed) allowance of around $50 a week. After bills, mortgage and groceries; my $50 encompasses nights/meals out, Starbucks runs, mid-week grocery pick ups, my weekly farmers market journey, and of course clothes. So you can possibly see why I try to be frugal with my spending.

In saying that, I have a current obsession: Knit skinny pants (like thick leggings with a zipper/jeans-like front). I have been looking for pants that I can wear on the weekend that are not jeans and don't need to be ironed. I found a cute-as-heck pair at Joe Fresh and an adorable edgy cargo pair at Zara. Each were $29.

Joe Fresh

$29 isn't very much money. But $29 is $29. And a good chunk of my weekly budget. Should I go into credit card debt for $29? No way. I'm trying to *potentially* take two really fun, awesome trips this year- should I take $29 from my vacation fund? Nah, I'm better off to spend it on vacation.

Plus it's a vicious cycle... I don't have many long shirts, so $29 Zara pants makes me want a $30 H&M tunic top. And then maybe some $40 Costco "Uggs" to top it off. Before you know it, that's $150 and I could have bought something really cool instead.

Beauty Booty: Oh Happy Day!

2010-07-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

It's here! And it's EPIC!

Cover Girl LashBlast Fusion! I found it today tucked away in a tiny corner of the drugstore and I was completely thrilled. So far I love it ~granted I have only used once swipe once I got home tonight. But I'm pretty sure this is going to be my holy grail of mascaras.

Its smooth, not clumpy or wet; it is lengthening and thickening and waterproof! Its the stuff dreams are made of.

Roller Girl

It took some practice but I finally got my hot roller technique down pat. 1) Your hair needs to be freshly washed 2) Use heat spray first and hair spray once rolled 3) Touch up the ends with a small barrel curling iron.

My curls actually last longer than me leaving the house, so in my world, that's a win. You take what you can get with fine limp hair sometimes.

I'm currently growing out my bangs ~which sucks~ so I've been doing different "bangs styles" lately: pinned back, LC's french braid; a poof. Remind me never ever to cut bangs again. I say it every time: I'm NEVER EVER cutting bangs again!!!

Shrewd and Thrifty

2010-07-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

My Mister is a fashionable guy, he knows what suits him and he always looks good. Recently, he has gotten into thrifting- at one shop he found an almost new Lacoste polo shirt and a totally sweet vintage velvet smoking jacket. He is one cool mofo, my guy.

I used to be a huge thrifter and had an obsession with crazy vintage clothes (we're talking mid-1990's here so vintage, grunge, etc was totally the shit). But over time I kind of fell out of it, my tastes changed, whatever. I haven't been to a thrift store in a long time. On a whim the other day, partly because My Mister had such luck on this last thrift journey, I decided to stop in at a thrift near my work. I had forgotten the fun of thrifting! It's a clothing treasure hunt.

I only ended up coming home with one piece on this adventure- a sweet ethnic printed/faux batik cotton sundress for $7. But I had lots of fun and tried on a couple cool things that didn't quite fit. My dress looks practically brand new so it was a pretty good deal for only $7.

So here is my one "special" cowgirl outfit of the week for The Stampede. I thought it would be fun to try it out belted with a shirt over top similar to some of the styles that other bloggers regularly pull off. Fashion bloggers inspire me like crazy!

Jacob chambray shirt, thrifted dress, Forever 21 belt, Aldo cowboy boots.

Casual Friday

2010-07-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

**This is my 300th post! Wow!!! Time sure flies**

This week we had the yearly rodeo, The Stampede, where the whole city dresses up in western wear ranging from gaudy cowboy shirts to skanky Daisy Duke hot pants and everything in between. So no OOTD posts to speak of this week as my week of boots and jeans was fairly unremarkable. However, I did have a few casual outfit pics stored up from recent days.

I've said before, I'm not a huge jeans wearer. I only have 4 pairs of jeans, only 1 pair being ones I really really love (my Gap black skinnies). However, jeans are pretty much a necessity. I'd really love to find some casual weekend pants I could throw on without worrying about ironing them first.

stunned

J Brand skinny jeans, guy's flannel shirt from Walmart (no seriously), Aldo belt, Steve Madden flats. I like the mix of girly leopard flats with a boyish flannel shirt for running around on the weekend. Its fun and different than just a T. I like it belted so it doesn't look so baggy and frumpy.

Anthro shirt via eBay, Silver jeans, flippie floppies. When this shirt first arrived in the mail, I admit, I was a bit bewildered. How do I wear it? The ruffled placket and sleeves dumbfounded me, it's very pink and very girly. It was only $7 so not a huge loss. But I really like the fit and the fabric is delightfully soft.

The more I wear it the more I love it. I definitely like it better as a casual weekend shirt, with jeans or shorts, rather than a work top where I try to cover up my arms. I feel really uncomfortable going sleeveless at work; not because of my tattoos but more because I think it is weird for a whole office full of people to be able to see my armpits. Is that just me?

Baby Steps

2010-07-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Two days in... and I already have confessions.

One, I am enjoying the gym. It's pretty swank. I'm used to working out at the community pool so to have a gym with a ladies only steam room and a row of hair driers... whoa, high class.

Two, I missed the first day. Seriously. Monday... the first damn day. I ended up coming in to work early then working late. And by the time I left work, it was hailing the size of golf balls. Not good excuses but shit happens. I feel I'm on track now and tomorrow is my fitness assessment with a trainer. That should be interesting...

I've been eating pretty well for the past few days and tracking my progress on an app called My Fitness Pal. I really like this app, it is so helpful! It gives you a calorie goal each day and it has tons and tons of food choices with nutritional info. So far I've been successful sticking to my goal. Tracking your daily food really makes you aware of everything you put in your mouth, I have an issue with "mindless boredom eating" and I don't think I full realize how much I tend to chomp on through the day.

So that's my update. I'll try not to be too boring since I don't intend for this to be a fitness blog. Instead, here's a goofy pic I took at the pet store of a baby iguana "hanging out".

Day One

2010-07-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Day One. I am starting a new gym/health routine. Scary!

I have a new gym pass, a session with a personal trainer and a moderate amount of motivation. I used to be a fairly avid swimmer/yoga participant but I fell off the wagon and realized I have lost all of my muscle tone. Its terrible, I've been feeling so blah and tired; I have trouble buying clothes that fit and look right; I need a release for some excess anxiety I've been feeling. I'm just not myself.

My main focus, other than over-all health, will be Arms, Thighs and Abs. (Soooo pretty much the problem areas for everyone?) I'm not going to be dieting (that's an evil word) just eating healthy. I bought a ton of fresh fruit and veggies at the farmers market this weekend. Grape tomatoes, fresh English peas, strawberries, peaches.

I'm a bit nervous since I have been to a gym to workout; not counting yoga or classes, but actually work out with weights and equipment, in many years. I'm nervous to see what the trainer will suggest and nervous to know what they gym will be like. I'm seriously praying it won't be a big douchey meathead-fest or it will be very discouraging!

With fresh yummy food and exercise, I'm hoping it won't be too hard and I'll see some success before winter. Cross your fingers for me!

Full Moon- some thoughts on Twilight

2010-07-05T15:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went with a few girl friends to see the new Twilight movie- Eclipse. I have to admit, I really really enjoyed it. I have read the books and watched the first two movies, so I must restrain myself from sounding too much like an overgrown tween. I am a fan of the series; not a posters-drinking glasses-t shirts- Edward Cullen pillow type fan but someone who simply gets their money's worth from a cute vampire flick.

The second movie, New Moon, I was not very impressed with. But I think the most recent movie was the best to date.

I know young girls these days are crazed Twilight fanatics. In my day we were crazed New Kids on the Block fanatics, same static different channel. One of the things I hope that young girls, or any girls, take away from the books/movies is the gentlemanly nature of Edward Cullen. I hope that (disregarding the arguments of "he's controlling" "he left her" etc) that this will have some influence on young people and girls won't put up with douchebaggetry from boys. Instead, I hope young ladies will insist upon "finding their Edward", not throwing themselves at any pimplefaced dingus who comes along. I have a 14 year old cousin and when I see her facebook and pictures, I'm shocked by how sexualized her age group is and how rudely boys of that age act towards her and her friends. One obviously affects the other.

Even when I think back, I can't believe how badly I let boys treat me in my teen years- not calling, talking about me behind my back. And was desperate for their attention, regardless. After treatment like that, why wouldn't girls now days be fixated on a guy like Edward Cullen? I perfectly understand why a whole generation of young girls now swoon over a fantasy boyfriend who wants to hold you while you sleep and protect you at any cost.

Anyway, Eclipse...it was enjoyable. The theme song by Cee-Lo Green (of Gnarls Barkley) is a great track too. Don't judge, just join the masses of screaming girls and enjoy :)

Miss You

2010-07-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hey Blogworld,

Miss me? I missed you all. Between my work being so re-goddammed-donkulous and trying to suck up as much sunlight as possible, I just haven't had the time or inspiration to blog. I haven't really been shopping much, still not feeling a lot of love for the mall.

Then I had a little Dyson vacuum VS usb cable incident. The usb lost in a big way and my pictures were trapped in my iPhone.

This weekend I did run a few errands and stopped by the mall. I tried on the Savasana wrap jacket at Lulu; took some pictures, then promptly deleted them. It looked terrible- frumpy and the grey was so dull. This is why you try things on. Also I'm really sick of the Lulu staff and their holier-than-thou attitudes. I'm pretty much over Lulu all together.

I went to the Gap and grabbed another pair of Always Skinny jeans. I literally had them in my hands and was standing in line when I suddenly stopped. I actually put them back... A feeling just came over me that I don't need them and I could probably spend $80 more effectively or put it into savings. Will my life be any better with another pair of jeans? No. How boring and adult of me.

My one and only recent acquisition (unless you count a 3-pack of dish towels; which I don't) has been a set of Conair 90 second Instant Hot Rollers. I picked them up at a department store where I had a gift certificate from buying the new appliances for my kitchen. I have been wanting hot rollers for a while and even though I am not very astute with my rolling skillz, I really really like them. And I really like that fact that they were $1.48 (including the dish towels) with the gift card.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B: You can not straighten your hair in the morning and then try to roll it when you get home FYI. It doesn't hold the curl. But the body is still pretty sweet for unwashed hair.

And yes... I did just admit that I am unwashed. I also am not wearing any makeup. I've got nothing to hide here on the blog! It's all me, baby!

Since my blog mini-break, I have a few ideas for a couple of new features. I just hope I can find the time to write them all down.

This is a test

2010-06-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

This is a test of the mobile blogging system.

Hey it works!!!

Wish List Spring Summer

2010-06-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

Stupid stuff I want/need/don't really need/like

in no particular order

When I first saw this LuluLemon Savasana Wrap sweater, I was like uhhhh space-cult leader? and bought pants instead. Now I kind of wish I had gotten it. It was super warm and soft and a nice change from a dumpy old hoody, like my current one from Mister's work.

I love the Gap's Always Skinny jeans. They were out of my size in store in the deconstructed wash. I'm dying for these and the saturated dark wash really bad.

Like the rest of blog world, I am loving the skinny cargos trend. Love these from Free People! And they are a steal at $100 compared to the J Brand Houlihans.

Anthro has been a little to saccharin sweet lately, J Crew has basic'd me out and Free People tends to over-hippie me most of the time. Could it be I'm just not that into shopping right now?

The Boyfriend

2010-06-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I get ideas for an outfit or a look I want to try. These ideas come to me in my sleep, walking the dog, in the shower, wherever. Any place or time except standing in front of my closet, it seems.

The other night I really wanted to wear an oversize white button down belted so I raided the boyfriend's side of the closet and luckily came up with exactly what I wanted. I like his shirt; it's soft and broken in just right and has really great French cuffs. I have delusions of stealing it permanently (hee hee).

I really wanted to wear my black Gap skinnies but they were in the wash. My khakis were the only pants I had ironed, pretty much everything else I own was in the laundry. Mid-way through the day I realized I dislike white-on-pastels/light colors and I never really feel comfortable in light color combos. Jeans would have looked better, I think.

peek a boo

Forever 21 brown gladiator belt, J Crew khakis, brown Le Chateau wedges.

I think my Mister gets a kick out of trying to get into my blog photos. Maybe one day I'll convince him to do an OOTD post too.

Beauty Booty

2010-06-14T20:31:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, I haven't been using much new product lately. Back when we moved in December, I realized how many lotions, shadows, shampoos and soaps I had squirrelled away and made it my mission to use them up before buying anything new.

However, mascara is an on-going battle. I'm dying for Cover Girl Lash Blast Fusion to arrive but no stores are carrying it here yet! Woe is meeee!!! I had practically scraped my Sephora birthday sample tube clean so I had to break down and pick up a new tube of something, while anxiously awaiting Lash Blast Fusion.

The Sephora sample was ok, pretty nice mascara. I have good/bad luck with sample tubes that are terrific in the mini size but crappy once I buy the full tube. Lancome- I'm looking at you, my friend... But I'm poor so Sephora is out and off to the drugstore I go.

Anyway, the drugstore by my house had Rimmel mascaras on for $4.99 so I thought eh, what the heck? I picked out Sexy Curves in waterproof blackest black.

I'm not a huge fan of Rimmel products. Their nail polishes are absolutely fantastic! Their makeup is pretty hit and miss, I don't find their pigments have much staying power. I have a blush that I love the texture but I wish the color would last longer.

What can I say about Sexy Curves? The name is lame. The bottle is pretty, like I Dream of Jeanie/Urban Decay Eye Primer. The problem with Sexy Curves is the formula is soooo wet. I put it on and then have to sit around like this for 10 minutes so I don't smudge...

so that sucks. The brush has these 3 curves but I haven't really been able to figure out proper application. Some lashes get hardly anything and others are plastered with mascara. Weird. But the end is great for coating little bottom lashes.

I wouldn't buy this again but I do feel like I got my $5 worth.

Facts and Photos

2010-06-10T20:36:00.001-07:00

I took my little Miss for a long walk this evening. I went for a massage earlier and I was just feeling good, happy, silly. I wore my new Lululemon pants that were a birthday gift from my Mister's Sister with some lace up high tops and I think I looked like a dog-walking ninja. I threw on my fake nerd glasses but I don't think my neighbors quite appreciated my hipster-blogger-awesomeness.

Thanksgiving 2005-ish

Fun Fact: I have never seen The Godfather. Not at all. Not even 5 minutes. Or The Exorcist.
However, I do own both Shallow Hal and Encino Man and have watched both many, many times.
Another Fun Fact: The movie Road Warrior (Mad Max) is my version of Ambien. I have never seen past the part where he eats the dog food. I fall dead asleep every single time and have been since I was a kid.

Fall 2007

I've really been craving another tattoo lately. I love beautiful, interesting body art. When I was young, my mom would take us to the library for books every week. Once, when I was around 5, I took out a large book full of colored photos of tattoos. Why my mother allowed me to I'll never know but I think it affected me from a young age.

I love seeing really pretty girls with full tattooed sleeves, bodies, etc. I like the contrast between soft, pretty femininity and artistic, edginess of tattoos.

I think I want to add more to the koi on my waist and make my lower back a big spread of waves, starfishes, bubbles, turtles and fishes.

2006 maybe?

I used to spend a lot of time alone. I would stay in my room for hours and hours and hours listening to music and trying on clothes. I started doing it as a teen/preteen and unfortunately, it went on far into my adulthood. Probably farther than it should have. I sometimes have trouble interacting with people because I am, by nature, kind of a loner.

1979

This picture my Mister and I dubbed Baby SquareHead. I was 8 months old here and had hair as fine and blond as a baby bird's. I walked at 9 months but didn't figure out potty training until pre-school. You win some, you lose some.

The Joker

2010-06-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Rebel.

Sinner.

Rule Breaker.

I broke an office commandment and wore jeans to work.

Ben Sherman purple/teal striped shirt, Level 99 jeans given to me by a friend, Le Chateau riding boots. Paul Frank iPhone skin peeking out of my pocket.

My boss said he liked my shirt and I didn't even get in trouble from HR. Sweet.

Give 'Em The Boot

2010-06-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

It's still been unusually cold and wet. Pretty much all of spring has been crummy, cold and damp. On the bright side at least I didn't need to purchase much for spring so my budget got saved...I suppose.

My Mom got back from 2 1/2 weeks touring Italy. I was super jealous, even though it poured rain on my Mom for almost two weeks straight. I missed her tons but she made up by buying me a bunch of neat gifts. Table linens, some clothes and 2 pairs of shoes- my favorite being a hot pink pair of suede cowboy boots!

My Mom said to me "Don't worry if you don't like them, they were dirt cheap..." meanwhile I squealed with delight and shoved them onto my feet. I do love them!

Jacob longsleeve T, J Crew Saturday pants, hot pink boots.

I really like wearing boots. I have 4 pairs of cowboy boots now; plus high heeled boots, wedges, Uggs, fur-lined, etc etc. The only good thing about a cold spring is getting to wear boots longer into the year than normal. But that's the only good thing. Bring on some heat and sun!

Party Dress

2010-06-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

I have had such a busy (but fun) week! Unfortunately most of it involved drinking in copious amounts...

Last weekend we went to our annual Beerfest. We always have such a super fun time, we go every year with a bigger and bigger group of friends. It is always a total blast. No OOTD pics from it because I looked like an utter mess; I was drunk and it rained so my hair looked like a backwards wig. I'm purdy.

Then mid-week, purely by coincidence and not because we're lushes, we were invited to a wine tasting. So good! I had my first organic wine which was delicious- Summerhill Organic Pinot Noir. We had to bring a bottle home, it was wonderful.

At the wine tasting, I ran into an old friend (who obviously had a great memory for faces) who I haven't seen in about 14 years. I was so excited to see her, I didn't get her number. Ugh! How could I be so dumb??? And I can't seem to find the right person on Facebook. Lisa... I hope you find me! I've exhausted all of my resources and can't find you!

Friday night we went out for a big birthday dinner. My Mister, his Sister and his Cousin were all born within days of each other and so we went out for a big family meal at a swanky steak house, where I stuffed myself silly on smoked salmon, filet Mignon and of course, wine.

Getting dressed up for a night out is so much fun! Of course a party dress in in order for a fancy dinner, and I was excited to wear my off-eBayAnthro Caranday dress! I stalked the green colorway pretty hard and finally my mom bought it for me as a gift after I obsessively showed it to her during a "teach Mom how to use eBay/iTunes/download" session. Thanks Mom!

Anthropologie/Corey Lynn Calter Caranday Dress. It totally reminds me of an Alice in Wonderland/Wizard of Oz/little girl party dress.

Aldo black patent heels, J Crew Dream Taffeta cardigan