28.4.10

Sweets, Frills, and Tea Time

Being the lovely ladies that you are, I'm sure you dolls all love having an excuse to get dressed up and put on your most darling Jeffrey Campbell bow embellished heels as much as I do! And what better occasion on these cozy spring days than a tea party! I know you all must be picturing those childhood days when you would sit across from your favored stuffed bear whom was clad in just as fanciful clothes as you had prepared yourself in, sipping your invisible tea with your pinky high up in the air. And of course, the higher, the fancier!

Though that does sound charming for the child in us, what I am talking about is the true elegance of a tea party. With napkin holders, name cards, and your very best china. Not to mention the darling little edible delights, cute enough be decoration, but far too delicious to let go. Delightful lemon cookies, delicious cucumber finger sandwiches, fabulous fruit tarts, and some scrummy buttered scones, just to name a few. ♥
Dressing up is the greatest part of the whole occasion, so treat yourself to the cutest number in your closet, or  even pick yourself up a white ruffle adorned dress that would make any wardrobe jealous!  Slip some delicacy about your hands with a pair of white poise gloves that will bring a feminine charm that you never knew possible. But of course, we can't forget the proper tea party etiquette; removing your gloves to dine is a must. 
Tea Party Etiquette: To stir your tea, swish the tea back and forth, never hitting the sides of the cup. Never leave the spoon in the cup, but gently rest the spoon on the saucer, behind the cup on the right side under the cup handle. 
But of course, being the slightly rebellious ladies we are, rules are meant for breaking most of the time, so serve, stir and sip as you please with plenty of laughs to go along.

Don't forget to take plenty of polaroids to savor the charm of the day in your memories forever. ♥

Who doesn't enjoy the elegance of a tea party? To satisfy your love for such sweet events even further, I have decided that once a week, I will have a feature on tea parties and ideas for them, whether it be recipes, outfits, or other relative DIY's. I was also taking into consideration a weekly fashionista spotlight post, just like my recent, Fashionista Spotlight: Olivia Palermo. What do you dolls think of this idea? I would love to hear your opinions!

26.4.10

The Oxford Comma

The boy looks almost regal with his delicately aligned buttons parallel to his frame. The top button mistakenly slipped out, or maybe purposely left undone to entice the eye. Its a rigid, crisp form of sex appeal, stark and untouched, but seemingly asking to be. Though the image fits almost too perfectly to the frame of a man, the crisp collar and fit of an oxford isn't just for the boys any more.
We have already ventured into the means of boyfriend cardigans, blazers, and jeans. No reason not to get our hands on the perfection of an oxford shirt and bring on the stunning factor of androgyny. If not particularly ecstatic about parting from your usual frilly pieces with an entire look with Forever 21's Roll Sleeve Shirt and TopShop's Linen Tapered Trousers, there plenty of other options for this versatile piece. Pair your American Apparel  Unisex Italian Short Sleeve Button-Up with a cutesy, pleated Mossimo skirt to keep it simple, or even a pair of Urban Outfitter's high-waisted BDG Boyfriend Shorts  for those cozy, relaxed days in the sun.
LOOKBOOK.nu: LOOKBOOK.nu: LOOKBOOK.nu:

25.4.10

window pain


This is my first time sharing my own, personal poetry on my blog. As people, we are not one-dimensional, one sided beings, therefore I would like to share a bit of my other dimensions with you all. This particular one is nothing special, just a moment of emotion summed up to say the least.

Window Pain


The bluebird sings a place to her
Destiny unknown
Caressing thoughts of escapist routes
To travel on alone

She sings to a figure paralyzed
Or sunken ankle deep
A room fit the title spacious
Has no margin to let breathe


The luscious wind carreses
the window pane, or pain
Alongside the swollen gaze 
It always sits the same

The wild horses gallant
Stir envy in a soul
All memory does dwindle
 
As the bluebird's beauty whispers, 

"let go"

22.4.10

In the kitchen: chocolate cupcakes with lemon frosting

I know what you must be thinking: "chocolate and lemon? This girl must be just a bit mad." That I may be, but honestly, I'll say the odd combo works! I felt like the two flavors balanced each other out. Funny thing was, I originally intended on a chocolate cupcake with coconut frosting, but didn't have all the ingredients on hand. Next time, that will be a must though. Chocolate and coconut is to die for! Just one of my numerous weaknesses. 
Any who, these are vegan cupcakes. Mind you, I'm not vegan by any means, but I do prefer vegan alternatives at times, especially when it comes to these darlings!
 
I tend to buy all my ingredients from Trader Joe's. Though I know cupcakes and frosting aren't exactly health food, I am definitely partial to all things organic. And honestly, have you ever seen a canister of cocoa powder so cute??

Chocolate Vegan Cupcakes:

Ingredients

CUPCAKE
  • 2 1/4 cups organic all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups organic cane sugar
  • 1 cup organic unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon organic vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup organic canola oil
  • 2 teaspoons organic white vinegar
  • 2 cups cold water
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Line two cupcake pans with paper liners and set aside.  

In a large bowl, sift the dry ingredients together.  Set that aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, water, vanilla extract and vinegar.  

Slowly whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.  The mixture will be quite wet, but this is how it should be, so don't worry!

LEMON FROSTING
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter or margarine 
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
With an electric mixer at low speed, mix the powdered sugar and butter together. 


Once combined, add the lemon juice and lemon zest. Increase speed of mixer to medium and beat for 1 to 2 minutes or until smooth and of spreading consistency.
It honestly doesn't work out well if you don't beat for the lengthy amount of time. I tried, believe me.

And on the top I sprinkled a bit of lemon zest as well, more for the sake of decoration than anything. 
It nearing the end of Thursday, I can officially be happy that the weekend is almost here. Before any celebration though, I have a paper to finish that's due tomorrow. Terribly exciting. 
I've also got myself an interview at American Apparel tomorrow! Hopefully it goes over well. Wish me luck & any tips would be lovely. ♥

20.4.10

we crash into love filled nights

(blouse- self-made, skirt- forever 21, hat- urban outfitters, shoes- keds)
This was my very very last minute entry to Chictopia's Keds Casual Style Contest. Goodness, my Keds are worn out, or should I say well-loved? We've gone through a lot, my Keds and I, from games of soccer to horse trodden dirt trails... okay maybe not the dirt trails, but you get the gist of it. I have this issue with getting rid of shoes, no matter how wrecked. Keds doesn't carry this collection anymore any how, so even more reason to stall their departure!
What's a possession of yours in your closet that you can't bear to part with, dolls?

19.4.10

An image of permanence on body, in mind

Numerous fashion addicts have been flocking to Chanel's recent temporary tattoo collection at the cost of $75.00. Though I cannot deny my liking for their designs, I'm left to wonder, what happened to the art and permanence of real tattoos? By no means I am I insisting on inking your life long dedication to Chanel on your skin, but something that's carefully well thought out and holds significance to you.
I have found that some look to tattoos as if they shed a negative light on a person, or aren't fit for a sophisticated doll, like much of your selves, but I beg to differ. A few amazing bloggers themselves take ownership to some ink of their own.
Erin from Calivintage epitomizes class and style in my eyes, and her very original tattoos only seem to add character to her image. She even goes into detail onto what each means to her, which you can see here.
 Marissa from Marissa Explains it All is another who's girliness and wonderful style are not hindered by her tattoo. Hers happens to be of a polaroid on her arm, due to her love for Polaroid pictures. Creative indeed.
 Julie from Orchid Gray is simply stunning with her creative and lovely looks, and in no way does her ink take away from that.
 With even examples to thrive on, there is no reason to go against whatever you may want, despite society's ideals. Whether it be a tattoo, a piercing, or simply a certain outfit lacking an element of conformism, its your life, your choice.
Its almost humorous that I'm going on about tattoos in such a way, when I don't even have one my own. One of these days, when I get the money, I will! Here's a basic idea for what I want for myself:

I would put up the drawing I have done for it, but my scanner doesn't seem to want to work. 
It's actually the quote from Shakespeare's Hamlet, "To thine own self be true," translated into Latin. I have contemplated over different variations of it though, including the entire verse, or having it in plain English. I have plenty of time to decide though. What do you all think?

Of course, let me know you opinion on tattoos, if you have any yourself, and if not, what are some ideas have if you do plan on getting  one? I would love to hear! ♥

15.4.10

shake all the troubles from your worried mind

 
 I know this isn't much of an outfit picture, dolls, but more for the sake of the photo. I will have one up soon though!
Wednesday was a wonderful break from the week right in the middle. The only issue with doing things on Wednesdays though, is that you end up realizing you still have two more days until the weekend! Nevertheless, it was still great basically driving around with my friend Oscar, from a quick run through the mall, watching The Hills Have Eyes II, no matter how lame it was, then heading over to the lab, and lastly getting boba! Have I ever told you of my love for milk tea boba?  Ah, I think I'm craving it again! I really want to try the recipe for boba I came across on Quiet Like Horses one of these days!
If you have ever been to The Lab in Costa Mesa, you would agree with me when I say the atmosphere is fantastic, and just incredibly laid back. The architectural makeup and decor of it is just amazing! Its just a huge contrast from going to the mall earlier that day and being greeted by a guy working in Ralph Lauren who looked like he should have been sitting in a lush leather recliner smoking a pipe in front of a fireplace. No offense to him at all, actually, more power to him for achieving the look! Don't you ever get that feeling that you don't exactly belong somewhere though?
This little guy was roaming one of the shops there, and he was just so adorable! Even though I nearly tripped over the rope at one point, but that's just me being my clumsy self. 
Oh, and some other news to put me in such a feel good mood: I finally got my driver's license! I know I'm a bit late, in college and 18, but still, an achievement nonetheless!
I have some studying to finish off for my test tomorrow and then its Friday accompanied by a weekend full of lovely. ♥
Have a delightful weekend everyone! I'd love to hear of your plans!

13.4.10

Fashionista Spotlight: Olivia Palermo

I'm very much an advocate for all things funky and mixed, but also have a great appreciation for a look of sophistication. And who other than Olivia Palermo epitomizes that to a t? I'm not going to lie, by no means do I follow The City, but Palermo has undoubtedly become a favored fashionista and it girl everywhere with her feminine, chic style, especially in my book. Even Vogue has recognized her! What I admire most about her is that in no way is she just "another pretty face."
    __________________

 How do you decide what to wear every day?
When I get dressed in the morning, I think about versatility - and I'd be lying if I said the weather wasn't a factor. I love layered looks using vests or jackets, but sometimes I feel my best in a great pair of jeans and a fabulous T-shirt.



Who, if anybody, has an influence on your style - or whose style do you admire?
I love the way Scott Schuman captures off-the-cuff street style. It's raw and natural and fits my aesthetic. Menswear always has an influence on me and I think that's down to Coco Chanel I think many women are influenced by her imprint on fashion.

What are you style essentials - what couldn't you live without?
I can't live without my YSL Tribute heels and my Ray-Ban Wayfarers. Everybody thinks it's the clothing that makes an outfit, but more often than not it's the accessories.
_______________________________________________
 I wouldn't dare let you guys off without getting something out of this post! Pass off as Palermo's style twin with each of these pieces I found that add up to less than $200 total! A whole outfit that likely cost about the same as her Ray-Bans alone!

Winner of the For the Love of Accessories Giveaway!

I know, I know, I'm running a bit late with this, but here it is! And I'll let you guys know, this took actually a few takes to get right, because I just couldn't seem to stop getting tongue tied in the beginning!



So congratulations to Katrina!
Go ahead and check your email if you get to this post first!

And thank you all so much for everything, reading my blog, commenting, everything!
Now make sure to enjoy the rest of your week, dolls, no matter what comes your way. ♥ 

12.4.10

Dripping Chains and Dangling Gems

I know I have been dwelling on shoes for the past week, but I wanted to take a turn to accessories, specifically jewelry.
One of my favorite jewelry designers, Gemma Redux, who you all may know as a big contributor for much of the jewelry for Blake Lively's character on Gossip Girl, Serena Vanderwoodsen, never seizes to enthrall me. Her Spring 10 collection is incredible. Oh, how I would love to indulge in one of her pieces, dripping chains and breath taking gems and crystals. Simply stunning. And even more so, who wouldn't want to feature a bit of resemblance to the effortlessly lovely Serena Vanderwoodsen?
One cannot deny the beauty of the combination of this array of chains with the gorgeous lemon quartz to compliment. If only I had the ability to indulge in such a piece! You can actually purchase this exact one on the Gossip Girl CW online shop, along with a couple others straight out of the show.

Searching and doing some online window shopping, I came across another wonderful jewelry, I would say, artist, by the name of Laura Staley who has her own shop on Etsy called Creative Jewelry Designs. They are indeed creative, and equally stunning and original! Each piece is hand crafted and one-of-a-kind. She even welcomes custom orders. I must say, dolls, this is definitely worth checking out to bring company to your darling jewelry stand!



Speaking of accessories, don't forget to submit your entries for the love of accessories giveaway before midnight PST tonight! 

11.4.10

Golden hues and apples too

"Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one's definition of your life; define yourself."
Harvey Fierstein
These dreamy shots were taken by Jamie Nelson, an incredible New York based fashion and beauty photographer. I just had to share these few with you all because I found them truly captivating. The lighting, the elements, how soft yet overwhelmingly stunning with all that is captured in just one shot.

10.4.10

Appetite for something new

We all love our glamorous heels, strutting your stuff in that slick trench coat and Louboutins. Unfortunately, your favorite stilettos aren't always too practical. No one takes favor to having their four inch heels sink into the mud because they couldn't bare to part with them on such a lovely day at the park. 
Not to worry though, a bit of a replacement for your darling skyscrapers will not sacrifice your level of glamor and stun factor! If anything, it will only show it more in a whole new way!

The Simple Slip-on Sweets
 There is nothing easier than slipping your feet into a shoes as you're running late. What makes it even easier is that they are so darling!

The Tantalizing T-Strap
We all madly love our high-heeled version of this shoe, but they're just as delightful without the added height!

The Lovely Lace up
Not quite feeling the vibe of the regular flip flops and gladiator sandals this spring and summer? Make these your go to light weights for the seasons to come. They are definitely on my list!

The Dashing Brogue 
Who can not love the boyish charm that these can add to an outfit? Comfortable and suitable for your  favorite new floral dress or to pair with your everyday jeans!

The Lofty Loafer
Loafers are no longer for your good ole' English professor, and I bet you dolls could manage making them look a million times as chic! Unless of course, you had a brilliantly chic professor.

Now go out and have yourself a lovely weekend with plenty of smiles dolls! Maybe even with the new found accompaniment of a pair of these upon your feet. ♥

7.4.10

Darling you gotta let me know

 
 
(brown leather vest- thrifted from deelux, skirt- ?, The Clash self- reconstructed band t- somewhere in downtown LA, scarf- thrifted, brown riding boots- forever21)
Today I was a bit everywhere with what I was wearing. I originally had my favorite dark rinse jeans on with this, but it got far too hot! So instead, I swapped for this skirt that I've actually had for 5 years now. It was originally floor length when I bought it right before my freshman year of high school, which came in much handy when I got in an accident that same year and my leg was swollen to the size of a balloon! A couple years ago though, I figured I would get more use out of it by making it shorter, and I was right in my assumption. I found this leather vest at local thrift store by me called Deelux recently, and just had to buy it. I have a feeling it will be getting plenty of use with this new warm weather!

I'm in dire need for some new shoes, as my family is not too happy with the condition of  3 of my current pairs. I've been pushed to throw them out a few times already. So, I narrowed down my new purchase to these two choices from Forever 21, but I can't seem to choose from there! I prefer the first pair a bit more, but I don't think they would fit as well into my wardrobe as if they were black. The color they are though is lovely. I would love to hear your opinion on this, dolls!
 



6.4.10

For the love of accessories: Giveaway

Like I promised, as I have reached 50 followers, I will be treating you dolls to a little giveaway.
I know I often go on how much I love detail and accessories, so I have decided to spread that love. For this giveaway, the winner will be receiving two adorable cocktail rings to bring a lovely touch to any outfit. I think I may just sneak in a little surprise for you as well. I can't help it, you guys are just too amazing!

To enter:
♥ Leave a comment on this post with your name and email by midnight PST on Monday, April 12th.
♥ Must be a follower with google friend connect.
♥ Tell me what your favorite accessory to wear is and your favorite dessert.

I will be announcing the winner on Tuesday, April 13th.
*Only open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

Best of luck to you :]

5.4.10

In the nude; not naked

We all enjoy the freshness of the new season. In contrast to the blacks and grays of winter, what can feel more light than a breezy nude? A lovely lace dress to show off your figure in the most stunning way or some darling nude pumps to seemingly lengthen your legs. If you fear the option of going head to toe in nude, add some simple flair with a colorful scarf or dramatic jewelry. To jump colors so suddenly from one end of the spectrum to the other is not something every person can feel comfortable with right away. Throw on your favorite black leather jacket or light cardigan to ease yourself into the transition.
LOOKBOOK.nu:
LOOKBOOK.nu:

3.4.10

Tibi ipsi dic verum

"To thine own self be true."

Don't be afraid to wear those glitzy shoes you adore. They may just be the next greatest trend. For that matter, don't be afraid to wear anything you love. Be proud of your individuality, it's yours, and yours only. Let it shine.

  "How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone." 
Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel

Don't be scared of remembering your inner child and likes for immaturity for a day. Climb up into your old tree house and reminisce over your many tea parties, but once you climb back down that ladder, realize you are now in the future. Leave all the bad and the good in that stashed away diary, and go on with your journey, learning and becoming the person you are now. Remember where you came from, but live in the present. 

Life is a party, but only if that's what you want it to be. Life is what you make of it. It's not the same for all of us, so mold it, shape it to fit you.
Doing things that aren't you may supply momentary satisfaction, but it doesn't last. Don't lose yourself in trying to please others. It will only make the search harder. Find yourself before you lose it.

"He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away."
Raymond Hull

Remove the mask. Though it may be lovely by visual perception, there is something far more beautiful that lies behind the glitter and swirls it is adorned with. The sparkle in your eye makes that glitter obsolete. The complexity to your beauty puts those swirls to shame. Nothing is more stunning than the radiant skin of a person who knows their existence, loves it, and is not afraid to hide it. No one can take that away from you.


Experiences are the hardest teachers, because the test comes first, then the lesson. Sooner or later though, we will realize, life is just one, vast experience. Don't second guess yourself in it. There is room for mistakes, there is room for error, but you have only one "experience" to live. Don't track backwards. Take what you've learned and move forward. The more you move forward, the closer you are to freedom, the freedom to be yourself. It is here where happiness will be the material we relish in.

"To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting."  
e.e. cummings

Dears, there is always a reason to smile, some days it may be a harder search, but there always is.
I hope you all find plenty of reasons to smile this weekend.

2.4.10

Stop the Traffik

I want to give you all some back story on the banner I have put up on my blog.
Stop the Traffik is an organization/ charity that was initially started as a two year campaign to host "Freedom Day" on March 25th 2007 to mark the bicentenary of the abolition of transatlantic slavery and hand a million signatures to the United Nations in 2007.  Instead of ending, with a following of 1.5 million activists Stop the Traffik became an independent international charity. Stop the Traffik looks to continue to grow and reach those at risk as well as inspire people to become voices against trafficking.To bring more knowledge to the subject, trafficking  is being deceived or taken against your will, bought, sold and transported into slavery for sexual exploitation, sweat shops, child brides, circuses, sacrificial worship, forced begging, sale of human organs, farm labor, or domestic servitude.The worst thing: it's still growing.Two- four million men, women, and children are trafficked across borders and within their own country every year. 
Help stop the traffik.

Winter Kate

First off, doesn't that name alone just paint a whimsical image for you?  This is the name of Nicole Richie's new line of clothing, the name being her daughter's middle names. I find Richie's style to be absolutely wonderful, (as well as her choice in baby names!). In an interview she coined Stevie Knicks and Debby Harry for being her inspiration for this fall '10 line, which no doubt, speaks for the line itself. Her pieces graze over the description of chic, modern, classic, and just plain gorgeous all at once.
What I love most is that she truly takes a hands on approach to her line, and is personally involved in the designing of each piece.
all images from nylonmag.com
currently listening to: transference- spoon

1.4.10

Links à la Mode : The IFB Weekly Roundup

links a la mode

Thinking Fashion


Edited by Retro  Chick It never ceases to amaze me the quality and variety of links that get  submitted to IFB each week and how hard it is to pick just 20. Fashion  & Style Bloggers are intelligent, thoughtful and insightful people  who really understand their subject. Whether it’s Second Hand Shopper questioning the distinction  between fashion and style, Shrimp Salad Circus discussing how much of  ourselves we should put into our blogs or a whole plethora of posts on  the subject of body image.
Of course, we also love a bargain and this week we have a DIY Pillbox Hat, tips on thrift shopping the Spring trends and a gorgeous giveaway.
I really would urge you to take the time to check out the links that didn’t make it in the forums. I don’t  think there’s a bad post among them….

Links à la Mode : April 1


        
  • Alyson Is Neat – Revealing secrets on how to go  into a store and not purchase clothing.
  •     
  • Awakened Aesthetic – How to live green, without  giving up the “unethical” stuff you already have.
  •     
  • blackdog finds – How to Thrift Shop for Spring 2010  Fashion Trends:
  •     
  • British Style Bloggers – A preview of the finalé of  British Style Bloggers’ Body Image Season, including a random and  rambling tour of BSB’s head office (aka my house).
  •     
  • DailyDivaDish – Spanx for Men: Is shapewear for men  really going mainstream?  Why I think it’s a bad idea.
  •     
  • Despising Life is So Passe – Pillbox Hat DIY
  •     
  • Eternal Masquerade – Monroe Monday: A Look At What  the Wardrobe Should Mean to Every Woman
  •     
  • Grit and Glamour – A signature fragrance is your  invisible identity—it becomes part of your brand
  •     
  • High Fashion Girl – I write about Lady Gaga like  you’ve NEVER read about her before.
  •     
  • Idiosyncratic Style – A Peek at the life and style  of illustrator Rachelle Scarfo
  •     
  • Independent  Fashion Bloggers – How to make your blog mobile friendly
  •     
  • Oh, the Places You'll Go! – Fatsionable Art and  Inspiration from Eva Hannah.
  •     
  • Retro Chick – How every girl can be a Princess
  •     
  • Second Hand Shopper – Second hand shopper pits the  escapism of fashion against the expressionism of style
  •     
  • Shoulderache & The Closet – The most expensive  wool in the world!
  •     
  • Shrimp Salad Circus – How much of yourself should  you put ‘out there?’
  •     
  • The Demoiselles – Graceful Empowerment Comes in All  Forms (including that of eating the other guy’s tacos).
  •     
  • The Greyest Ghost – Behind the scenes of the Chanel  f/w 2010 ad campaign in NYC with Abbey Lee Kershaw, Freja Beha  Erichsen, and Karl Lagerfeld.
  •     
  • The New Wave – Going once, going twice, SOLD! A  visit to the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection auction.
  •     
  • The Well-Appointed Catwalk – Highlights and my  impressions of “Health Matters: Weight and Wellness in the World of  Fashion,” a panel discussion I attended featuring Anna Wintour, Michael  Kors and Natalia Vodianova.
  •     
  • True Queen – Examining the use of fur by designers  on the runways of the Fall 2010 fashion shows.
  •     
  • Unfunded – Unfunded teams up with the U.K. retailer  NEXT for an awesome giveaway!

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