Grey, Blue and Cream

A very wintery looking, but not winter appropriate outfit today. Totally exhausted when this pic was taken (I really should take these earlier in the day), which explains why the necklace is off. I should give these navy tights a break, but again they make an appearance. And while I didn't take a picture with my winter coat on, it too was cream colored and paired with a cream colored scarf.

Go-go Boots and Belt: Forever 21

Tights: Clarie's via ebay

Extra Long Tunic: Target

Necklace and Blue Cardigan: Wet Seal

Favorite Fashion Blogs

You may have noticed that I have finally updated my blog list. I just wanted to send a shout out that if you see your blog listed and haven't had a chance to list this fabulous blog, don't worry I still love ya! (As long as you go right now and add me to your list of favorites . . . And if you don't, then fine (and in my best third grader voice) I didn't want to be on your stinky old blog anyway!)

Project Runway: Menswear

Given the level of tailoring needed to make men's clothes, it comes as no surprise that the designs this week fell short. And while Jack may have won the challenge, with the ensemble pictured below, I was left wanting more. While I like the overall look, a tie and/or vest would have really pulled this look together. And I'm bothered by the pocket on the shirt. It looks like a square piece of fabric was sown on in the last minute. But given the time constraints of the challenge, not bad . . . just not the best.

For me this week's winner should have been Kevin. I love his use of dual purple tones. This look would be complete if they would have just tucked in the damn shirt. Other than that, this look is sharp!

Kit's outfit is also worth mentioning. I like how it straddles the line between dressy and casual with the fleece jacket. An easy look that I am sure a lot of men appreciate.

I figure its about time I make a prediction for this season's winner. So far I think Victorya has been the most consistent at creating wearable and classic clothing. (I'm going to try and swing by Steve and Barry's today to see if I can pick up her winning dress from last week.) Although I think anything can happen in this competition, the other designers better keep their eye on her!

><><><><><><><><(photos from projectrunway.com and bravotv.com)

Erin Fetherston for Target

In one sense, I am impressed by Target's "GO International" clothing collections featuring different designers' pieces for a limited 90 day run. It's about time that fashion be brought to the masses and there is almost no better way to do this than selling your clothes to Target . . . unless you sell them to Wal-mart, but I won't go there. Thank you Isaac Mizrahi for moving fashion away from its elitist base to the general public!

This being said, I haven't been able to bring myself to spend $50 (or more) on a dress at Target. Maybe at Nordstrom's or Dillard's, sure I will (because $50 means I got a good deal), but for some reason the idea of spending serious dough on clothes at Target has not been appealing to me . . .until now.

While I don't love every piece, there is a feminine sensibility to Erin's line and the color palette is stellar. Here are some of my favorites:

Above: Flirty Chiffon Dress with Velvet for $44.99 at Target

Right: From Erin's Spring 08 collection, I wish I could get my hands on this sexy dress!

(photo via style.com)

Above: Silver Jumper $29.99 Right: Barn Red Dress, $59.99 (I LOVE the color and the peter pan collar)

Pockets are awesome

As promised, here is a pic of what I wore to dinner last night (sans the jewelry that I took off as soon as I got home before this picture was taken). I have recently wanted to purchase a dress with pockets, since I have never owned one. And not just any dress with pockets, I wanted a dress with pockets at the side seam so that they blend into the dress. Little did I know at the time that this navy number was just what I was looking for! It wasn't until I put this dress on for the first time yesterday that I realized this great little addition. In fact, I thought there was a huge hole in the seam until I realized how awesome this dress really is.

Dress: Forever 21

Tights and Ballet Flats: Old Navy

Happy Birthday to me!

Today is my 25th birthday (fitting that it would also fall on the 25th). And my horoscope says to listen to my inner voice. Lucky for me, my inner voice says to eat lots of leftover turkey (which I love) and top it off with some delicious birthday cake! I went out to club Stay in the city last night to celebrate! And of course, had to wear a new dress for the occasion. I even got a compliment on the tights from a drunk guy at the train station. Who knew navy tights would be the piece worth mentioning :)

Dress: Wet Seal

Tights: Claire's via ebay

Shoes: Old Navy

My partner and I are going to dinner tonight, and if I don't recycle this outfit for the dinner date, I'll definitely show off any new duds I decide to put on.

Project Runway: Round Two

I was really excited to figure out who was going to be the big celebrity guest judge for this week's Project Runway. I was a little giddy with anticipation as the show began to air thinking that Project Runway was going to step it up and get Anna Wintour to judge (although now that I think about it, she would never lower herself to being on a reality TV show). And probably because I never got into Sex and the City, I was disappointed when I saw that "the biggest name in Project Runway history" was Sarah Jessica Parker. Don't get me wrong, I admire that she has put together an affordable clothing line with Bitten, but it's just that Sarah's star power shines dimly for me because the line is really kind of boring. I would have thought that bold risk-taking she is known for in her personal life would be evident in the line, but I haven't come across any pieces that wow me.

But for $20, I wouldn't mind picking up a piece like this Houndstooth jacket. It will be interesting to see the direction this line takes in the future. Until then, it's fun to look at the contestants' visions for Bitten.

There were several pieces this week that I would definitely go out of my way to pick up. Even though I think Elisa is crazy, her outfit this week should have won (spit stains and all):

Not only are these fabrics luxurious looking, the proportions on the cape are killer. I have been looking to buy a vintage cape, but those I have come across are much too long (ending around my hips) and end up resembling a poncho and not a cape. I would snatch this cape up in a heartbeat!

I also love this retro jacket. I think its fun, quirky and eye catching. I think the judges missed the mark on this one. And although I wouldn't pair it with a dress, I still want to rock it!

I'm not sure how long Christian (one of the designers of this jacket) will make it in the competition. I think his youth and more importantly his inexperience, will be his downfall, but for those interested in 80s inspired retro wear, Christian is the designer to watch.

And while I think the cape/dress combo should have won, Victorya and Kevin's dress is flirty and sophisticated. And while the colors in the vest compliment the dress, I don't like the vest paired with this dress. First, I think the structured design of the vest contrasts with the fluid design of the dress. Even though the designers had to create a two piece ensemble, I think this dress could have stood alone.

Project Runway: Initial Thoughts

I love Project Runway!

It was the first show to hook me in to Bravo's cheesy tv show format (Did you notice that all the shows share the same sound effects?) and in my humble opinion, owes its greatness to the oratory wonder that is Tim Gunn. Before the second episode aires tonight, I thought I would weigh in on my initial favorites. It wasn't until I saw the outfits on the runway that I knew that Chris would be a huge contender on this show. As long as his designs only hint as his costume-making background and don't look like they should be in a show.

A freelance costume designer based in NYC, this purple showstopper should have won the first challenge:

You can bid on this dress (and others) by visiting the Project Runway site. Prices currently range from about $100 to $350. Jack is also a fav, because 1. he's cute, 2. this dress is hot and 3. he was a sociology major at Parsons.

And I want to love Steven, but he better represent. I am all for classic elegance, he

just has to figure out how to keep it fresh. This outfit isn't doing it for me so much. While it's Calvin Klein and Michael Kors simplicity and clean lines are noted, if this dress really does represent the kind of designer Steven is, then he must be a bit of a bore. Although I must admit that the proportions of this outfit are impeccable. I want a suit jacket that flairs out!

P.S.--This bitch, Elisa, is crazy. Anyone who intentionally puts grass stains on chiffon should have his/her head examined. My prediction she'll be kicked off very soon. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for free-spirited thinking and inspiration, it's just that you have to ground yourself at some point or risk being stuck in the clouds.

Give Away Dress

I bought this dress at Target years ago, and had actually put it in a bag with other items that I planned on donating. Being lazy about taking the clothes to the donation bin does have one upside . . .it gave me time to plan an outfit using this dress! I also like how the pattern in the dress is echoed in the pattern on the slippers (yep these shoes are actually slippers).

Dress: Target

Tan Long Sleeve T-Shirt: Rave

Tights: Target:

Shoes: Gift from parents

Sweater: Gift from parents

Fun Dress

I wore this dress a lot this summer after I bought it, here it is layered for fall wear: Dress: Wet Seal Black Leggings: Nordstrom Black Slouch Boots: Wet Seal Black Lace Cami: Forever 21 Bracelet: my belt necklace

Black pants day 2

Wearing the same pants two different ways (see Monday's post too):

Black Slacks: Kohl's Black Pumps: Ebay Black long sleeve tee: ??? Yellow tunic: Kohl's

Black and Blue

For my body type (in other words, because I have a big booty, thicker hips and thighs), I have always been a fan of the wide leg trouser, so this is defintely a trend I can easily incorporate. I love when trends are flattering too! Polka Dot Top w/belt: Forever 21 Black Slacks: Kohl's Shoes: Gift (Aerosoles) Necklace: Kohl's Earrings: Either Target or Charlotte Russe I was also going for a negative/positive look with the jewelry, which is why the jewel in my necklace is black and the ones in my earrings are white. Even though this is a subtle effect, I hope to incorporate this look more boldly in the future.

red oxfords

I still haven't completely made up my mind about the oxford ankle boot with heels.

Wet Seal for $24.50 Basically, I'm not sure how the shoe above could ever look as good as the one below (ignoring the expensive price tag). So, why not just stick to plain ole oxfords and keep the ankle boots looking like boots?!

Do you dig high heeled oxfords?
	Hell yes, it's about time these shoes were feminized
	Eh, they're ok. I can take them or leave them. Unless they're free . . .then I'll take them
	Nope, I don't really dig them at all
	Well it's complicated. Let me post a comment
pollcode.com free polls

And even though I may not have come to a decision about whether or not oxfords should have heels, this trend has inspired me to finally get a pair of oxfords for myself. While the conservative voice in my head says, "FE why don't you buy a black pair since they're so versatile," the compulsive shopper screams, "but these vintage red ones are so cute with the red ribbon laces!" And once again, I fall victim to my shopping habits.

Loving the pink and brown

I recently bought this vintage tunic dress from ebay (for $2!). Since its a little short to wear on its own I paired it with a suede brown skirt for a nice effect. I think this tunicwill also look good paired with leggings, but the weather was a bit cold for that look. I have been dying to wear this jacket and finally found a color combination that works with it.

Tunic: Ebay

Bangle: Target

Earrings: Gift

Tights: Target

Shoes: Payless

Jacket: Wet Seal

These earring compliment the outfit well since they have lilac and pink stone accents.

Budget

Recently I have found myself spending a LOT of money on clothes. I've decided the time has come to create a monthly budget for myself. I was thinking that 5% of my monthly income could go towards fashion. What do you think? Is 5% a reasonable figure? How do you budget for clothes?

Wanted: Sweater

If you haven't figured it out by now I shop at Wet Seal a lot (anyone remember Contempo?). Mainly because its fun to incorporate some trends into my wardrobe, but also because they're cheap and I can shop online. Today's wanted item is a cute swing styled sweater for layering (sold in purple too). I don't know how I'll layer it yet, but I'm sure I can figure something out :) My biggest concern about it that it won't be a piece that I can wear from a long time (i.e.--too trendy). I would love to hear other people's opinions about whether swing jackets are here to stay. Cost: $19.50 at Wet Seal

Inspiration: Music

One of the most influential sources of inspiration can be found in music. Not only does music affect my personality, it also helps to define my fashion sense. Here's an example of how music has shaped my sense of style. Besides, it's an excuse to share with you all music that I can't get enough of (at least for the time being). Check out the tunes: http://www.myspace.com/fujiyaandmiyagi (Ankle Injuries is a good place to start) And now here's a shirt I think goes well with the sound . . . paired with some metallic and purple leggings would make this look complete!

Tunic: Wet Seal ($17.50)

Hooray for the 80s comeback!!! (Although the oversized shoulder pads can stay in the past.) I wouldn't mind getting my hands on one of those little plastic t-shirt rings or some slap bracelets, remember those?

Silky Plum Dress

Here's a pic of the outfit I wore today. The styling is a little off, but its been a long Monday. (Don't Mondays always feel a little long?)

And here's a close-up of the tights, to showcase the feminine floral pattern (pardon the mess on the floor):

Dress: Forever 21 Necklace: Wet Seal Bracelets: Wet Seal Ankle Boots: Gift from the hubby

Ebay Items of the Week 11.4.07

Happy Daylight Savings! I decided to spend my extra hour looking for vintage finds on ebay:

This teal silk top is beautifuly detailed, making this a great layering piece! Bid is currently $24.99 ($5.50 shipping):

Following the teal theme, this 80s sweater dress with pockets rocks! So hip and comfy. . . perfect. $12 ($9 shipping):

This shirt-styled blazer was really ahead of its time. The geometric flow of this pattern is fantastic and the nuetral color scheme makes this a piece that can easily be incorporated into most waredrobes. Starting bid $14.99 ($4.60 shipping):

And lastly, not a vintage piece, but a fun accessory nonetheless. These tights are awesome and perfect for someone who wants to make a statement. For those feeling a little more modest, you could always tone down the statement by pairing these tights with some leggings or a pencil skirt. Buy a pair now for $6.99 ($3.99 shipping):

What do you think about these funky tights?
	They're awesome!!!
	I like them, but not for me
	Fashion Evolution (FE) you need to stop doing drugs, these are hideous!
	Different opinion, I'll explain in the comments
pollcode.com free polls

DIY Dress

I came across this cute vintage nurse's uniform on ebay. I wanted to share in case anyone was in the mood for a do-it-yourself dye job (What I Wore Today has fabulous instructions). I think this would love lovely in a bold red shade.

Starting bid: $19.99

The close-up shows two things: 1. The cute detailing and 2. how transparent it is!

(You can click on the image to enlarge)

Uninspired

For a variety of reasons, its been an off (aka rough) week. So, today I was pretty uninspired even though I knew I would be in NYC (going to the city usually makes me step up my game!). At least my boobs look good in this pic!

Kimono Top: New York and Co. Black Pants: Guess (outlet store)

Slouch Boots: Wet Seal

Necklace: Wet Seal

Vintage Dress

Didn't get around to posting this outfit I wore on Tuesday. Even though there isn't any brown in the dress, I think the color combination still turned out great as I continue to be inspired by fall colors. My partner thinks the detailing on the neck makes the dress look old, but part of the reason that I bought the dress was because I liked this keyhole feature. Any thoughts? Dress: Vintage Vault Belt: Wet Seal Long Cardigan: Kohl's (??, can't remember for sure) Shoes: Aldo (my partner got these for me . . .he has the BEST taste in shoes! Making me one lucky girl)