CMYKaboom!

Fall 2008 Fashion Review: Marni

2008-08-21T06:22:00.003-04:00

Images courtesy of Style.com

There are many collections this fall that I enjoy, but I think my absolute favorite is Marni’s AW08 collection. Consuelo Castiglioni returned to her minimalist designs from last season, but I feel she refined this season’s work by taking out the fluff and truly letting the fabrics and the shapes of the garments take the forefront. Whereas in the spring/summer collection Castiglioni used a good deal of printing and unique, quirky fabrics, this season centers around the old classics: tweeds, silk, printed knits and fur in a stunning palette of pastel shades and muted colors.

Images courtesy of Style.com

The entire collection seems to take a strong influence from the 1920’s and art nouveau. The silhouettes are long and straight, with skirts resting just below the knee. Blouses and dresses drape loosely over the forms, incorporating a good amount of fabric. All the pieces include beautiful striped stockings or knee socks, and platform shoes ending in a square toe – an ideal touch for such an architectural collection.

Images courtesy of Style.com

Fabric effects are brought to a minimum in this collection, but when they are used they are broad statements that encompass the entire garment. Particular favorites of mine are the mustard yellow and black checkered skirt and the wonderful diamond lattice texture in the duotone skirt suit. Particular interest can be taken in the pieces that employ the most unique patterns in the collection – as these are the ones that seem to embody art nouveau. Not only are the models adorned in these nostalgic, graceful patterns, but the headpieces that adorn their heads are highly reminiscent of the wreaths of fruit and flowers that often garland the heads of female archetypes depicted in the period work.

Images courtesy of Style.com

Integrate Marni style into your wardrobe this season by opting for loose trousers and blouses in pastel and muted colors. Trousers should end a little above the ankle, to prevent them from looking baggy. Choose colors that compliment each other, but do not be afraid of adding a third or fourth flash of color to make the look “pop.” A cardigan or light jacket can be worn over the outfir, cinched in place with a sleek belt. Accessorize your outfit with striped socks, and vintage headband and maryjanes, and you are ready to hit the streets in your modern classic style.

Fall 2008 Fashion Review: Gucci

2008-08-20T06:12:00.003-04:00

Images courtesy of Style.com

When I think of Gucci, I think of luxury, sexiness, sumptuousness – and maybe ladies blinged out to the max. I think this has a lot to do with my eighties upbringing, a time when sophistication and lavishing in the expensive reached new heights, with Gucci the call to arms of affluence in fashion. But looking at Gucci’s stunning AW08 collection, I am forced to reassess my former opinion. Frida Giannini has done a remarkable job taking a brand that had a high potential of becoming dated after its rise as the hallmark of opulence, and bringing into the new age of cultural assimilation and bohemian sensibility, all the while preserving that sense of sumptuousness that makes Gucci Gucci.

This collection is a perfect example of her accomplishment. Giannini has pulled from bohemian, folk and middle-eastern influences to create outfits that feel sleek, sexy, yet culturally relevant, well-traveled and ethnic. The result is what I like to think of as a “sexy matroshka” – outfits that feel smart, sophisticated, yet down-to-earth and traditionally aware.

Images courtesy of Style.com

Many of the ensembles in the collection have an almost uniform-like composition: black slacks, black boots, beautiful belt scarves, decadent waistcoats over blouses and turtlenecks that provide vivacious punches of color. The pieces all carry old-world embellishments that make them feel rooted in tradition – particularly the gypsy belt-scarves and the waistcoats, which vary from caftan-esque knits to carefully embroidered coats, finished with military buttons.

Images courtesy of Style.com

The footwear in this collection is particularly appealing. Many pieces incorporate long-fringed boots, which add a wonderful movement to the costumes. Others incorporate heavily studded ankle boots, which look both traditional in their decoration, but entirely new and unique in their construction. I am quite smitten with these beauties.

Incorporate Gucci’s style into your fall wardrobe by opting for form-fitting leggings, waistcoats and tops that pop with color. Wrap a large, ethnic scarf around your waist to add a dash of color, and don’t be afraid to pile on the belts. Finish the look with fringed boots, and chunky, ethnic gold jewelry. A no-nonsense black bag and dark sunglasses brings the whole thing together.

Fall 2008 Review: Dries Van Noten

2008-08-18T18:19:00.006-04:00

Images courtesy of Style.com

Dries Van Noten has been quickly ascending as one of the most applauded designers today, particularly in the department of footwear, in which his shoes have garnered an almost cult-like following, However, Van Noten’s AW08 collection shows us that his sense of garment design is just as acute as his panache for sharp footware.

Images courtesy of Style.com

Van Noten’s collection seems inspired by a trip into your rich Grandma’s attic: vintage furs, chunky oversized sweaters, embroidered Eastern coats from long-ago travels, brought together with modern-art inspired prints on blouses, skirts and slacks. Throw in some men’s trouser socks to ground the entire look with a smart black base, and a look is created that is eclectic, romantic and divine.

Images courtesy of Style.com

The look is one of elegant clutter - a variation of prints and textures brought together with a careful eye. diaphanous skirts and slacks are mingled with coarser, knobby knitting and fur that is spiky or textured. But my absolute favorite touch are the necklaces - whose beads are so loud and pronounced they appear to be numerous bangles strung together. A smaller accessory would be completely drowned out in these outfits, and I admire that Van Noten created a unique accessory that could compete with such ensembles and be entirely captivating in its own right.

Work this look into your fall apparel by being bold - don't be afraid to mix strong prints and textures against one another. Mix your floral print skirts from the summer with large, heavy sweaters. Printed fabrics brought together can be married with the right accessories -- a neutral fur vest, black scarves, and of course, black shoes and black trouser socks. Find the chunkiest necklace you can get your hands on to complete the look, or better yet, make your own from cheap bangles (which is what I am sure to do).

Fall 2008 Fashion Review: Stella McCartney

2008-08-18T06:07:00.003-04:00

If your personal sense of style revolves around comfort, like mine, then Stella McCartney is the ideal designer. Her pieces always carry a sense of grace and elegance in even the most casual fabrics. Her AW08 collection once more delves into pushing the envelope on couture and comfort, this time through a greyscale color palette, heavy knits, and loose, billowing, one-piece garments that almost cocoon the wearer in the material. The effect is altogether elegant, sensual and stunning.

Images courtesy ofStyle.com

Many of the pieces in McCartney's collection utilize elaborate intarsia (a flat knit fabric with patterns knitted in solid colors), but unlike the chunky, kitsch effect that the style is often associated with, McCartney adds refinement by using loose-form patterns, or elaborate patterns rendered in a grey color palette, which creates a more subtle, sophisticated effect. This successfully translates the look into a much higher caliber, turning a style rather charming and folksy into one of the utmost elegance.

Images courtesy ofStyle.com

In my opinion, an almost Elizabethan influence can be found in several pieces of the collection, particularly the evening wear piece above. Again, these two dresses are examples of the way McCartney can take the most simple, casual ideas – in this case, a nightgown and an oversized sweater, and turn them into sheer elegance through shaping and details. The effect is almost geisha-like and old world – the beauty of the woman lies in what is hidden rather than what is revealed. The sexiness of the female in repose, if you will.

You can capture McCartney's cool comfort by sticking to greys and blacks, and donning uncluttered, large, simple knits. Keep the look uncluttered with accessories -- in this case, something soft like a scarf is more appropriate than jewelry. Pair an oversized sweater with another large knit piece (like a vest or cardigan), simple black leggings and black accessories. The look will leave you looking elegant and ready for the elements, while feeling comfy to the max.

Week in Wardrobe: 8/11 - 8/14

2008-08-15T07:55:00.003-04:00

Due to a burn on my foot (long story - will explain later) - I have had to be very careful with the kind of footwear I have worn this week. Lots of closed shoes. My yoga teacher's eyes bugged out of his head when I showed up last night bandaged and ready to bend!

Left to Right: Mon,8/11, Tuesday,8/12

Monday, 8/11
Top: Mango
Dress: Joyce Leslie
Boots: Ebay
Necklace: ragtrader on Etsy
Bracelets: wooden skulls (tat convention), hello kitty (made by mom)
Watch: Bulova

Tuesday, 8/12
Dress: Thrifted
Jacket: Thrifted
Boots: Thrifted
Watch: Bulova
Earrings: Lord & Taylor
Necklace: Accumulated charms & hand-me-downs

Left to Right: Wednesday,8/13, Thursday,8/14

Wednesday,8/13
Tank: H&M
Shirt: H&M?
Pants: Orphan
Boots: Boutique in Boulder, CO
Necklace: basilthecat on Etsy
Watch: Bulova

Thursday,8/14
Tank: Gadzooks
Tunic: Forever 21
Vest: Urban Collection
Jeans: e.a.p. (Hiroshima)
Boots: Bakers
Cuff: James the Leather Man
Watch: Bulova
Necklace: Jewelry store in Tokyo

We are having me and my sister's joint birthday party/welcome home party at the folks' house this weekend. I can't wait to lounge around the pool and eat barbecue, though swimming is definitely brought into question, with the bad foot and all. Le sigh...

Inspiration Machine 7

2008-08-14T08:47:00.002-04:00

Clockwise from left: Bonnie Shulman, Gatochy, Steve Hopson, Shutterhack

1. Decorate your own pair of sneakers.

2. Begin holding dinner parties.

3. What would you choose to float in the air instead of clouds?

4. Eat a piece of fruit everyday.

5. Dress monochromatically.

6. If you had your own company, what would you call it?

7. Replace all the doors in your home with filmy curtains.

8. Write down the 10 nicest things that ever happened to you.

9. Invent a fantastic new hairstyle.

10. If you were in a band, what would you play?

Winning the Motherload: Jami Rodriguez Jewelry

2008-08-13T06:18:00.001-04:00

Recently, the fashion community Stylehive.com held a contest to write about your favorite "Style Hiver" - who they were, what you liked about them, and why. The prize they were offering was too good to pass up - $500 worth of jewelry from the amazing designer Jami Rodriguez. So, I grabbed my keyboard and set to work. I decided to write about a member named BusyBee, who has remarkably great taste and a superb collection of items she showcases on the site.

Lo and behold, I just found out I won! In a few short days time, this amazing hoard of gorgeous jewelry will be making its way to yours truly. Talk about an amazing birthday gift!!

Jami Rodriguez Jewelry Collection

I can't tell you how delighted I am. I am very particular when it comes to jewelry, but Rodriquez's line feels like it was made for me - the pieces are so unique, dramatic, with a sophisticated sense of whimsy. I can barely wait to start wearing these bad boys!

StyleHive has a great interview with Jami Rodriguez, which you can read here.
To view Rodriguez's complete jewelry line, click here.

Full review of the pieces and pics coming soon!

Muxtape 3: Neverending Summer Mix

2008-08-12T09:52:00.002-04:00

"4 New Flavoured Ice Cream Plush Toys from Chocolate Log" by ChocolateLog

August is always a very bittersweet month for me. It's the month of my birthday, so I am always looking forward to friends and parties and general fun-ness. However, it's also the last month of the summer, and the end of my favorite season. As beautiful as the days are, there's always that sad feeling that it's fleeting, and cool days and falling leaves are just on the horizon.

I put this mix together in honor of August, all the last-minute fun and nostalgia and contemplation of the cooler days ahead - something you can listen to in the car on that final beach trip or picnic of the season. I hope it helps keeps summer with you just a little longer.

The Playlist:

Alias - Crosswalks
National skyline - some will say
Beck - Gamma Ray
King Khan and The Shrines - Took My Lady Out To Dinner
Devin Davis - When The Angels Lift Our Eyelids In The Morning
Mystery Jets - Diamonds In The Dark
Fleet Foxes - Ragged Wood
Au Revoir Simone - Sad Song (RAC Mix)
The XYZ Affair - Evening Life
Rogue Wave - Chicago X 12
MGMT - Love Always Remains
Nicole Atkins - Brooklyn's on Fire!

In Love With Ombre

2008-08-11T06:56:00.001-04:00

I have a brand new obsession - ombre. Ombre is a French term that means "shaded". As it refers to textiles, it is used to describe fabrics "with a dyed, printed, or woven design in which the color is graduated from light to dark and often into stripes of varying shades" (Fibre2Fashion.com). The effect of this gradation is a smooth, liquid-like fabric that blends colors in rather magical way.

I think my obsession began with this stunning dress worn by Angelina Jolie last year:

Ever since, I have been seeing ombre everywhere, and I cannot get enough of it. I have always been drawn to muted colors, and it delights me that ombre is an effect that really shines in a more neutral, toned-down color palette.

Below are some of my personal favorite ombre pieces:

Missoni Ombre-Striped Cape & Dress

Anthropologie Cool Dip Chemise

Prada Ombre Leather Handbag

Vince Ombre Cashmere Cardigan

Badgley Mischka Gathered Ombre Halter Gown

I can't wait to get my hands on a few pieces of my own.
What do you think of ombre? Love or hate?

Week in Wardrobe: 8/05-8/08

2008-08-08T10:18:00.005-04:00

I can't even put into words how busy I have been this week. Between work, dinner parties, freelance work, mandatory bowling (long story) and the arrival of my sister, I feel like I head is going to fall off my neck and spin off into the stratosphere. I'm quite happy in the madness though - I'd always rather be busy than bored. Dressing up honestly helps me through the chaos - I feel so much more secure and in a good mood when I am wearing something I like.

Left to Right: Tues,8/05, Wednesday,8/06

Tuesday, 8/05
Tank: H&M
Shirt: J.Crew
Trousers: Victoria's Secret
Shoes: Thrifted
Tie: Thrifted
Watch: Bulova

Wednesday, 8/06
Cami: J.Crew
Grey Tank: Target
Skirt: Boutique in NY
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell
Shawl: Street vendor in NY
Earrings: H&M
Necklace: Erica Weiner
Watch: Bulova

Left to Right: Thursday,8/07, Friday,8/08

Thursday,8/07
Top: Thrifted
Skirt: Gap
Leggings: Target
Shoes: Picked up ages ago at Ross
Necklace: Navajo made dream catcher
Wooden Bangle: sparklinglotusdesign on Etsy
Watch: Bulova

Friday,8/08
Dress: Nostalgia on Etsy
Necklace: Aldo
Shoes: Classified
Wrist Cuff: James the leather man
Watch: Bulova

Going to All Points West tomorrow! Radiohead, The Roots and Animal Collective - I can't wait!

Inspiration Machine 6

2008-08-07T09:41:00.005-04:00

Clockwise from left: ~fb~, Gatochy, Meanest Indian, Pink Sushi

1. Coordinate your closet by the colorwheel.

2. Dress up your best friend.

3. Hold a cupcake-tasting tea party

4. For the apartment-bound, grow grass in window boxes in all your windows.

5. Handpaint your own nesting dolls.

6. If you could create the ideal pet, what would it look like, and what would be its key traits?

7. Write a letter to your living hero, telling them how they have inspired you in your life.

8. Channel the spirit of the missing color.

9. What noble title would you prefer?

10. Make a necklace of braided scarves.

DIY: Book Holder

2008-08-06T06:26:00.004-04:00

As a train commuter, I tend to be an incredibly heavy reader. However, due to the constant transportation, this often leads to a sorry state of affairs for my books. Banged around in my handbag for a week or more, they usually come out of the experience in pretty rough shape. So this weekend I decided make something to remedy the situation. I present to you, my new little book cover...

Essentially, the book cover I designed is a cloth envelope, with a heavy ribbon affixed to the flap to keep the whole business prettily closed. I played with the design a bit, and my main goal was to create a holder that can accommodate both bulky hardbacks and teeny little paperbacks equally well. In this, I am happy to report it works swimmingly.

I took it out for a test drive yesterday, and am happy to report it was a complete success, both functionally and aesthetically (I received several admiring glances and compliments on it throughout the day). The best part is it was a breeze to make - I foresee making quite a few of these in the future.

Also, I love love love the fabric I used - it is covered with Russian nesting dolls. Simply adorable...

Channeling...Nina Simone

2008-08-05T08:48:00.004-04:00

During a time when our musical stars are known mainly for flashing their ya-yas and boobies and getting into drunken brawls with paparazzi, I think we should take a moment to reflect on what we have lost. A time when music heroines were beings of grace, elegance, and nobility: creatures that inspired us for how far they had climbed, rather than how low they could sink. There are many muses that have aspired to this ideal: Barbara Streisand, Loretta Lynn, Kate Bush, and more recently, Tori Amos: but of these, none culminated these ideals quite as much as Nina Simone.

Nina Simone, the stage name of Eunice Kathleen Waymon, was born on February 21, 1933, in North Carolina. Simone lived the true rags to riches star story: an avid church singer, Simone worked her way up to fame playing nightclubs in Atlantic City and Philadelphia. In 1958, she came out with her first album, "Little Girl Blue" which launched her into a musical sensation.

More than anything, Nina Simone is most closely associated with her unique vocal style: remarkably low tones, a stunning vibrato, and a timbre that is sometimes characterized as androgynous. But the most stunning part of Nina's music is the sheer passion that lies in everything she sang. Her songs are often dramatic characterizations, Simone channeling the characters in the songs with an empathy and feeling that has never had an equal. Whether singing as tragic Bess or the wrathful Pirate Jane, the promiscuous Sea Line Woman, or the damned woman in the House of the Rising Sun, Simone is not simply singing, but becoming these personages with a force of will and strength that is marveling.

But Nina Simone was not simply a pretty voice. Throughout her career she was a champion of the Civil Rights movement, and later, the Black Power movement. Many of her songs were themed in the plight of the underprivileged black community, transforming the injustices into beautiful songs to be contemplated while enjoyed. Her song, "Mississippi Goddamn," written in reaction to a bombing of a black church in Alabama, led to her music being boycotted in several southern states.

Like several musical heroines today, Simone had her own demons: yet she bore them with grace and nobility, rather than allowing them to consume her. Nina suffered from bipolar disorder, which was kept a secret until 2004 (after her death). This disorder is often considered the source of Simone's ability to often fluctuate between exuberant happiness and tragic melancholy within an album or concert.

Nina Simone's style was one etched in bearing and nobility. For much her career, she wore her hair in high pile atop her head, accentuating her graceful neck and queen-like profile. Her wardrobe was one of long, flowing garments made of rich fabrics, much of which as dramatic as her music. You can channel the loveliness of Nina with some of the following style ideas...

"The Urban Queen"
Make yourself look regal in long, flowing monotone dress, accented with large dramatic accessories. Top your head with a colorful scarf to achieve a stunning profile.

"Bohemian Bathsheba"
Funk it up with an elaborately patterned tunic and sweeping denim trousers. A leather jacket makes the entire appearance sleek and stunning. Complete the look with strong accessories, that pop but don't dominate.

"Draping Diva"
A seriously draping dress with a short hemline is the perfect thing to make you look ethereal, without drowning in fabric. Match strong colors with strong colors: black and a rich brown are the perfect company for a fiery orange. Top the whole look off with a fantastically eccentric floppy hat, stunning heels, and chunky bangles, and you will look like a living legend.

Sicky-Poo

2008-08-04T17:35:00.006-04:00

Living Hope, 1 Peter 1:3-9 VerseVisions
Originally uploaded by Marketseq

Apologies for the late post today: I am sadly a bit under the weather. However, I will be back tomorrow with all sorts of wonderful for my lovelies.

In the meantime, I leave you with these wonderful quotes by Mr. Bradbury and Mr. Bukowski:

"If we listened to our intellect we'd never have a love affair, we'd never have a friendship, we'd never go into business, because we'd be cynical. Well that's just nonsense! You've got to jump off the cliff all the time and build wings on the way down."
- Ray Bradbury

The young poet should stay the hell out of writing classes and find out what's happening around the corner. And bad luck for the young poet would be a rich father, an early marriage, an early success or the ability to do anything well.
- Charles Bukowski

Of Muppets and Monsters

2008-08-01T06:31:00.002-04:00

Still from the upcoming movie "Where the Wild Things Are"

If you didn't know, Jim Henson is my hero. I have had a passion for muppets, monsters and furry, cute things since I was a wee little lass. And as of late, I have stumbled upon far too many amazing monster and muppet links on the web, to keep from posting them for you, my humble readers.

First up, they have made Maurice Sendak's beloved tale, "Where the Wild Things Are," into a movie. Spike Jonze directed it, and Dave Eggers collaborated with him to write the script. I cannot even begin to put into words how excited I am by this combination of people, and I have a feeling it is going to be very, very awesome.

Still from the upcoming movie "Where the Wild Things Are"

Read more about the movie here.

Cookie Monster Tells Stephen Colbert What's What:

Feist visits the Best Street Ever:

And finally, no post about monsters and fuzzy things would be complete without a shout-out to Jenny Harada. Jenny is a crafter of fine furry plush creatures, and her originality and creativity in her creations is always a delight.

Jenny Harada creatures

See her full, delightful collection here.

Rawr.

Inspiration Machine 5

2008-07-31T09:11:00.003-04:00

Clockwise from left: ulisses barbosa, kelco, rosefirerising, ~fb~

1. Choose a language, and teach yourself one word from it each day. Say the word in greeting instead of "hello."

2. Dress as your favorite character from a book or movie.

3. Determine what will be your "great work."

4. Start carrying cloth handkerchiefs.

5. Create postcards from scratch of imaginary locations, and send them to friends.

6. If you could start your own charity, what would it be based around aiding? How would it accomplish it?

7. Start your own charity.

8. Whenever you get angry at someone, make yourself tell them an earnest compliment instead of brooding.

9. Cultivate a vanity table.

10. Live each day like its going in your memoir.

The Good Girl's Guide to Keeping a Budget

2008-07-30T06:28:00.001-04:00

"Money, plastic, youth and debt" by qwurky

The good girl in question - me. I have finally put myself on a budget, and seem to be keeping at it relatively well. Now that I am on one, it boggles my mind how I ever managed to survive before, spending money haphazardly with no rhyme or reason.

I am happy to announce that not only am I on a budget, but I am still alive and happy, and most importantly, still able to afford the things I want. And since I know that generally, the thought of trying to "Budget" throws the fashion-allured into shock, I would like to pass on my methods for a pain-free induced budget lifestyle.

Step 1: Get the Supplies
This step allows you to shop! Now, try as hard as you can not to buy an LV purse on your way to the stationary store, and grab yourself the following supplies.

- Cash Book (This is one of those books with all the weird lines in it, to help you add up figures. It looks nothing at all like an LV purse, but nice try.)
- Envelopes
- A Calculator
- Something small and plastic to store receipts in, that will fit nicely in that new LV purse ;)

You now have everything you need to start a budget!

Step 2: Learn the Damage
This week is relatively painless - you don't need to stop shopping (yet), you are just going to keep track of it. For this week, each time you buy something, put the receipt in your little receipt receptacle. At the end of the week, pop that baby out and start adding up all the receipts. Break the receipts into 3 categories: Dining Out, Purchases, Necessities (groceries,toiletries). If you have another category that fits into your life (transportation, coffee) go ahead and add that one as well. Now, separate those receipts you have accumulated according to their corresponding rows, and start adding the numbers.

When you are finished, have a stiff drink.

Just kidding ;) Though what you discover may surprise you. It's sometimes distressing to learn just how much we are giving Starbucks each week, or how much exactly all those little accessories we treat ourselves with can add up to. Do not be discouraged: the reason you decided to create a budget was to stop just this sort of cash-loss, and knowing is truly half the battle.

Now that you know the numbers, you can start making some real lifestyle decisions. For instance, if coffee is your crutch, do you really need to buy it at a shop? The choice to invest in a simple coffee machine can save you hundreds of dollars, and move you into the realm of financial security. If dining out is what gets you, then make the commitment to start bagging your lunches and cooking at home. These small changes can save you loads of cash, and require no budget to create an impact.

However, if like me, general shoppiness is your problem, you are probably going to need to budget some stuff (stop shaking, it's going to be ok:). Now, if you are going to budget, you are going to need to make some decisions, the most important being "HOW MUCH?". By "How Much?" I mean, how much would you ideally like to spend each week? The ideal amount should be one that both allows you to start saving, but also makes you feel like you are not enslaved into not buying anything. You can use the past week's purchases to help guide your decision in this area. The next thing you have to decide is the rules of what exactly it is you are budgeting. Is it just clothes, or should meals be thrown into the mix? What about necessary purchases, like new hosiery or undergarments? Keep in mind, it's ok to have allowances, so long as they are set allowances. It is better to determine these things now, than to start making them after you establish the budget, as that is the sure way to start slipping.

Step 3: Living la Vida Budget
You now have a budget! Now you need to follow it. You will still continue saving your receipts for the items you have decided should be within the realms of your budget, only now you will be adding them each day instead of weekly. Once you reach your limit in your cash book, you have to stop buying that week, or you have to put the money you do spend against the money alotted to you for the upcoming week (be careful about this practice: using it too often is a sure way to break a budget). I personally reserve overdrafts only for instances where the item I totally covet may not be there next week to claim.

Now, I am sure you want to know what to do about splurges. You know, that camera you really, really want, or that special piece of clothing you can't live without. There are going to be things you want outside your budget, so what do you do? Well, you just have to save up for it, or commit not to buy stuff for a few weeks following the purchase. This sounds like torture, but it can actually be kinda fun, and makes the final acquisition of the coveted object all the more sweet, as you truly need to earn it.

Be Forgiving
I am going to tell you right now - you are going to slip. There will be a week where you accidentally blow your budget to smithereens, and you know what? That's ok. Remember that you are putting yourself on a budget to improve your life, not make yourself miserable. As long as you keep trying to stay on a budget, you will be on a budget, and you will see results. Sometimes those results financial, and some more personal. For instance, getting in the habit of simply reconsidering a purchase before grabbing it up can impact what it is that you buy, and how you consider buying things in general. Budgets force you to do this, as suddenly you need to weigh the cost of the purchase against your ability to buy something later. By doing so, you will start to value things more by how much you want them, instead of whether you like them. And that, my friend, is the key to a budget - really treating yourself to the things that make you the happiest.

And that's it! You know what to do - good luck!

Spat Attack

2008-07-29T06:23:00.002-04:00

I have been trying to figure out what to do about my little shoe problem. I love, love, love shoes. The simple fact is that I can always justify a shoe purchase due to their practicality - I mean, I can't go about barefoot, can I? However, I live in a little place, and my shoe fetish, combined with Boyfriend Kaboom's policy of buying any footwear that fits, is leading to a bit of a shoe-alanche in the apartment. How can I curb my love for footwear, but still fulfill my love for foot-decor?

I have found the answer - and that answer is SPATS.

Spats/Gaiters are a piece of apparel that most people associate with the 19th and early 20th century, and most often kindle in the mind visions of men in three-piece suits, along with jodhpurs, pince-nez and top hats. However, I am pleased to report that spats are making a new, glorious comeback. And for a space-constrained city girl, they can prove the solution to switching up styles on your peds, without shelling out the money or room for more shoes. Several designers are making the style their own, and doing some glorious things with this fashion throwback. Here are some of my favs...

Maide Spats
Maide is a German-based designer of spats so decked out and resplendent in lace, frills, ribbons and detail that you may just feel your feet are simply to precious to touch the ground. Not only that, but all of her work is animal-friendly and vegan.

Fancy Leather Gaiterettes by LesFrivolites
LesFrivolites Etsy shop is full of delightful objects, but these cut leather gaiterettes are simple swoon-worthy. Turn any shoe into an elaborate, fanciful vessel for your feet!

"The Preacher" and "The Sound" by Posso the Spat
Posso the Spat takes a fantastic, futuristic take on the spat, crafting them in killer black leathers, gold, silver, and snakeskin. These are guaranteed to make even the plainest pair of shoes a piece of coveted couture.

Givenchy
Givenchy's latest collection features these supple, long gaiters. Elle described them as making the models look like Clydesdale horses, and I couldn't agree (or love it) more.

For more spat love, read:

"Spats - A Return to Civilized Attire" by Paul Kiernan (Atomic Magazine)

"Spats!" by jitterbugbaby (Shoeblog.com)

Spat How-to by Minnie (Thank you for not being perky)

"Lace Up Some Sexy Spats"(telegraph.co.uk)

Remember...

2008-07-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan), Guilin, China by Souer99

You are an amazing being of light and wonder. You are a member of the tribe from which all great ideas and inventions spring from. You are the closest thing to a guardian the Earth has ever had. You are loved by more people than you know. You are a learning creature, capable of forgiveness and being forgiven. You choose each day to make beauty or ugliness. Hope is eternal, and sadness fleeting. Society is built upon generosity and reciprocity, and we its arbitrators. You have no idea how good it can get. They love you, that much. An unknowable future is a gift that allows us new chances and opportunities beyond our wildest dreams. You can do ANYTHING. You can do ANYTHING. You can do ANYTHING. And we are all hoping you achieve your dreams.

Yeondoo Jung's Wonderland

2008-07-24T17:17:00.005-04:00

Yeondoo Jung is a Korean artist with as sharply a honed sense of whimsy and surrealism as you can find. Her ability to play with landscapes and environments ranges from the delightful to awe-inspiring to behold. Whether making us consider alternative housing or mystical ice-skating, here work always carries with it a full dose of surprise and wonder.

One of her projects that I find utterly inspiring is "Wonderland," in which Jung realized the drawings of young children. The results are simply beyond this world.

See the full set here.

(Snatched from How About Orange)

Inspiration Machine 4

2008-07-24T06:11:00.000-04:00

Clockwise from left: anneso_cachemireetsoie, !.keesssss.!, ♥chimidoro♫♪, kozika

1. Take up haberdashery.

2. Decorate dollar bills, and give them out to panhandlers.

3. What would be your name if you were a pirate?

4. Learn the Latin names of all your favorite flowers.

5. If you could create your own language, what would the words be for "love," "hate," "beautiful" and "war"?

6. Attempt the highest hairstyle you can muster.

7. Take ten deep breaths, acknowledging and thanking each for keeping you alive.

8. Pick a color, and draw everything you see in that color throughout the day.

9. Compose your speech to the world.

10. Make the decision to live bravely.

Things to Do on Rainy Days

2008-07-23T06:26:00.006-04:00

"Rainy day" by pshutterbug

Depending on your disposition and tastes, rainy days can be a blessing or a curse. As a commuter, I tend to vacillate between the two. There's something really nice about curling up with a book or a great movie on a gloomy day, while at times nothing is more a mood killer than stomping around in the damp.

Here are some ideas on how you can make even the most unwelcome rainy day an enjoyable, productive experience.

Cultivate a Rain Gear Collection
One of the gloomiest parts of rainy days is how they can hinder your choice of garb. Nothing is more of a downer than when you can't wear those new shoes due to the 3 inches of rain water outside your door. However, with a bunch of really excellent rain supplies, rainy days can be transformed into as fun dress-up days as any other day of the week.

Some necessary rain gear includes:
- Tall Galoshes
- Short Rain Booties
- Raincoats and Slickers
- Fun assortments of umbrellas
- Waterproof Satchels (for holding your shoes)
- Rain Bonnets
- Waterproof sports sandals

Also, once you have the proper stuff, you are completely set for some good old fashioned puddle-stomping. You are never too old to play in the rain.

Bust out that Hobby
Trapped in the house due to inclement weather? Don't consider it a day imprisoned so much as a hobby day. Rainy days are the perfect days for knitting, painting, sewing, writing and any other activity that can be ideally performed indoors. Don't have a hobby? Then why not take one up? Keep a book around of embroidery stitches that you can take out whenever it rains, and you will be a bitching stitcher in no time.

Clean, Clean, Clean
Rainy days are excellent days to finally tackle those big, annoying cleaning projects you have been postponing, since you will feel absolutely regret-less of any other activities you could be missing out on in the meantime. And it's a scientific fact that cleaning is easier to do when rain is tapping on your roof and thunder is booming. So pop on your favorite album, turn up the lights, and get cracking against those dust bunnies.

Some good, long cleaning projects include:
- Oil soap wood floors
- Alphabetize your bookshelf
- Clean out cabinets
- Organize your office
- Clean under beds
- Arrange your closet
- Wash your area rugs

Marathons!
Rainy days are the ideal time to host movie or tv show marathons. Next time the weather report calls for heavy rains throughout the day, call up some friends, make a big bowl of popcorn, and pop in that season of Buffy dvd you've been dying to watch. Some of my personal favs include:
- Sex and the City
- Twin Peaks
- Lord of the Rings
- Weeds
- Six Feet Under

Make Yummy Things
Been dying to make that recipe for a chocolate souffle, but haven't had the time? Well, now you do! Rainy days are excellent for baking and cooking all sorts of stuff. You can make a hearty soup and leave it to simmer into deliciousness all day, or bake a delicious batch of cupcakes in your favorite flavor. So you don't have to trudge out in the nasty weather to get supplies, stock up on the ingredients in anticipation of the next stormy Saturday - trust me, it will come. Keep a big binder of any recipe that catches your eye for when that rain starts falling.

What are your favorite things to do on rainy days?

Birthday Wish List

2008-07-22T06:50:00.010-04:00

It's that time again! My birthday is only a few weeks away, on August 20. I am an enormous fan of birthdays - I think all of us need more days to celebrate being the awesome people we are.

I am especially looking forward to this birthday for an extra-special reason - my sister Linda is returning home from Japan! This is like the best birthday gift ever, as she has been away for the past 2 years, and I miss her oodles. We plan to have some extra special fun to celebrate her homecoming and my anniversary of being born. Of course, no birthday would be complete without a wish list. Here are some things that would make the day for me extra special...

Tickets to Cirque de Soleil
I've dreamed of going to see Cirque de Soliel FOREVER. I love circuses and ballets, and to me the Cirque is a combination of both. The costumes, the performers, the bendiness...I could just swoon!

Amazon Gift Cards so I can buy the new Canon Powershot
I have a Canon Rebel XTI, which I love to tears, but it is an incredibly cumbersome piece of equipment. I have desperately desired a teensy-tiny camera I could chuck in my purse. Not only is this camera great, but it comes in gold! My camera shall bling, I decree it!

Gift Cards to Victoria's Secret
One of many shopping addictions is Victoria's Secret apparel. The funny thing is, I almost never buy any undergarments or lingerie from them. They have some great sweaters and swim suits, and with the cooler months just on the horizon, nothing makes me happier than stocking up on cozy, comfy knits.

Twin Peaks - The Definitive Gold Box Edition
I love love love Twin Peaks. I nearly hit the ceiling when I found out they were releasing this new edition of the dvds. With these in my possession, I can proceed in having a Twin Peaks marathon with good, hot black coffee, doughnuts and red, red lipstick.

What's on your wish list?

Feeling Like a Hussy

2008-07-21T06:31:00.001-04:00

The hot, hot summer has finally hit the Big Apple, and it is KILLER. It's hard to resist the urge to morph into a puddle of goo on the way to work and just slide into a sewer. New York heat is brutal and unyielding, with nary a tree or breeze in sight to offer some respite.

Still, every heat wave has a silver lining, and for me, that lining is Hussy apparel. Created by Australian designer Marie Hatzis, Hussy's line is chock full of slinky dresses, breezy frocks, and sweet little jumpers that dare the heat to make the wearer look anything but hot, cool and comfortable. Crafted with light fabrics and adoring details, Hussy's styles blend the very best of vintage accents with modern cuts, for an effect the is so fun yet so classic.

Gazing upon outfits like, the prospect of a never-ending heat wave doesn't seem that bad at all.

See the full summer collection here.
I wonder if I can swap my air conditioner for a dress...

Inspiration Machine 3

2008-07-17T06:09:00.000-04:00

Clockwise from left: xelia., idgie., unaerica, olivia ew

1. Imagine your own tribe. Decide it's name, belief system, and customs.

2. Create a brand new holiday around your favorite thing.

3. Reenact your first kiss.

4. Design your personal amulet.

5. Summon your guardian spirits: what are their names, and what do they look like? (Takashi Murakami has two)

6. Buy a globe, and decorate all the places you have been with paint and glitter.

7. Imagine what you would be like if you had lived your entire life in another country. What country would you choose? How would you be different: in dress, habit, and profession?

8. If you could have a twin, what would be their name? Would you prefer a boy or a girl? What would they be like?

9. Choreograph your own personal dance. Perform it frequently, in celebration of yourself.

10. Decorate your hair daily with something that starts with every letter of the alphabet.