Hey darlings, I'm now registered with Bloglovin, so if you're into that, follow me!
Thanks!
xoxo
shut up, i love that shirt on you.
sartorial realism: photos, fabness, etc.
February 09, 2010
don't be a hard rock when you really are a gem...
Back in the thick of the holiday rush at Anthropologie, we were working late to close down the store one Saturday night. It was nearing 11 p.m., and everyone was exhausted and worn thin from helping grouchy customers and picking up a sales floor that looked like it had vomited clothes all over itself (vulgar perhaps, but an accurate metaphor). Anyway, it was discouraging.
During the closing shifts that go late (and the early opening shifts, too), we often have a playlist (designed specially at Anthro corporate) that plays over the sound system to keep the mood up. Usually the music washes over me unnoticed, and we all seem to go about our duties in our own world.
This particular Saturday night though, as I was organizing boxes and boxes of tights, Lauryn Hill's "Ex-Factor" came on. The transformation in attitude was crazy. Every girl was humming or singing softly to themselves; lost in their own thoughts, re-hanging ruffled sweaters or folding piles of denim. It was just the right rhythm to keep us going and release some of the day's tension. (...hard rock... to gem... get it?)
This song is just so good. It's full of longing and sadness, but the beat and Lauryn's amazing voice keeps it from being depressing and cheesy. When it hits around the 3 minute 30 second point, it breaks into the best part (cry for me cry for me, you said you die for me - give to me give to me - why wont you live for me?) and instantly I remembered why I love this song, as well as the whole The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album. I still have the CD i bought when it came out in 1998; I was 13.
So take my advice and spice up your ipod with a little Lauryn H. Don't forget "Tell Him" and "Doo Wop (That Thing)" are also really wonderful.
February 09, 2010
a stanza of love...
“
Woe to the heart that beats without passion, that isn’t charmed by love, the joy of the heart ... Every day you spend without love? Why it’s not worth the sun that shines for you or the moon that consoles you.
”Persian Love, by Len Bracken (38th stanza)
February 08, 2010
pretty young (spring) things...
The farther we get into February, the more I'm thinking about March. And April. Retailers have been trying to sell us on Spring since about December, but I've been resistant until fairly recently.
The most recent J.Crew catalog has me ready to invest in my new Spring things - right now. It. Is. To. Die. For. Shot in Lisbon, Portugal, it's all panama hats and desert shoes, pastels, rolled chino shorts and embellished tissue tees. I want it all, but here are my highlights...
Broken-in boyfriend chino short, $49.50 at J.Crew
I'm slightly obsessed with the idea of some perfectly relaxed boyfriend shorts in a cool chino fabric and perhaps a fun color. I want to wear them much like J.Crew has styled them: with a button-down half-tucked, a skinny belt and funky jewelry.
Pixie pant, $88.00 at J.Crew
I can't tell exactly, but I'm pretty sure I have to have these pants. They're so Audrey, and perfect for days at the office with ballet flats and button-down shirts, or a hot date with chunky heels and a silky top.
Suede MacAlister boots, $145.00 at J.Crew
I really don't know if I can personally get on board with these shoes, but one of my uncles was wearing them the other night and he looked pretty hip.
Faded chambray shirt, $78.00 at J.Crew
I love the idea of mixing a faded, super-soft denim shirt with cotton or khaki shorts.
Merino-linen camp cardigan, $98.00 at J.Crew
Panama hat, $58.00 at J.Crew
I've been obsessed with this hat forever. It's a little expensive, but I adore it.
Skinny pyramid-studded belt, $36.50 at J.Crew
Vintage bateau top, $36.00 at J.Crew
Ahh, stripes. And distressed denim. So good together, like PB&J.
Marjorie suede ballet flats, $98.00 at J.Crew
You simply cannot go wrong with black ballet flats. They are (in my humble opinion) an absolute wardrobe essential.
To see the aesthetics that inspire me to want everything in J.Crew, you better look at Passport to Portugal. (It's a flash player, so I couldn't post the images!)
What do you think? Too preppy? I definitely tend to embrace my preppy side in Spring before I get all mermaid-hair boho--chic, havanias and long-tanks-as-dresses when Summer comes. I can't really pull off a total J. Crew ensemble (I wear far too much jewelry) but they have all the right basics that mix in well with just about any wardrobe.
February 08, 2010
une semaine d'amour...
Valentine's Day is coming up this weekend, so I'll be posting love-related whatever, whenever, all week long. Because I love love.
(image from leloveimage.blogspot.com)
February 05, 2010
tgif...
“
Drink wine, it’s what remains of the harvest of youth - the season of roses and wine and drunken friends. Be happy for a moment, that moment’s your life.
”Persian Love by Len Bracken (stanza 13)
February 05, 2010
the human side of Lady GaGa...
This is a twitpic from @ladygaga from backstage at the Grammy Awards. I didn't feel it was necessary to post any fashion moments from the Grammy's, especially since I didn't watch them, but I came across this picture on Twitter last night and I really love it. The caption reads:
"...beautiful photo taken of me the moment I found out i won my grammys. All the hundreds of songs I wrote, the thousands of shows, the fans, all the blood and tears flashing instantly. photo by haus member the famous "Dada" Williams."
February 05, 2010
outfit post: my uncle's retirement party...
Anthropologie white ruffle top; J Brand dark denim skinnies; Target black patent flats; thrifted & DIY gold chains; MK boyfriend watch; F21 owl ring; Echo (from Anthro) cashmere wrap; Ba&sh clutch.
Congrats Uncle Char!
February 04, 2010
The Sartorialist. Is. Perfection. (a must read...)
Attention, everyone. This is one of the loveliest things I've read on the internet in a very, very, long time. How wonderful that a man who takes such beautiful pictures can also compose such thoughtful words. Please enjoy (and take to heart) this post, "A Graceful Man, A Gentleman" ...
"Thanks everyone for all your great suggestions on books about modern manners. I can't wait to get a few and brush up on a few things before my next big dinner party.
For me, this is blogging at it's best. Being able to create a community of individuals that share information and ideas that can make the community as a whole a better place. Thank you.
One of the things I mentioned yesterday, was the "manner" of a person. "Manner" or "grace" is not something that you can learn from a book. Unfortunately, it is something you just have to be or to develop.
A great scene of modern grace on '30 Rock' the other day:
Liz and Jack went out to dinner at a very chic restaurant. As they sat down at the table, Jack immediately moved the candle from the center of the setting to the side of the table. Liz looked at him kinda funny, not understanding why he did that but, not really caring either. Later, however, when Liz reached across the table to steal some of Jack's food (as she always does), she realized he moved the candle so her sleeve wouldn't catch fire when she reached across the table. Jack's manner and grace were so attuned to her as a friend, that he knew her moves before she did. That tiny gesture ended up becoming the pivotal moment of the episode and changed the course of their business relationship.
I'm telling you guys again, women notice the small stuff. They notice the gentleness/gentlemenliness more than if you use the right fork at dinner. I'm a very lucky man, Garance notices every little kindness I offer her, she doesn't miss a thing. Knowing that makes it so much more rewarding to do even more little things for her. I'll be honest, my biggest obsession in life right now is not better shoes, more suits or a bigger career but, to simply be a more graceful man for my graceful woman.
So women, in the spirit of grace, manner and Valentine's Day, take a moment and share with us men some of the little kindnesses that your man has done for you that made your heart flutter. Us men might learn something and you might gain an even more graceful man, a gentleman.
Editor's Note: For my gay readers, I can only write this as I know it, a man loving a woman. Don't let this keep you from joining the conversation. If you have tiny acts of kindness from a boyfriend to a boyfriend, or girlfriend to a girlfriend, please share with us!
Grace is Grace.
It doesn't matter who you're lovin', it's how you're lovin'!"
*For a little bonus mood-lifter, find this post and click on the comments. There are over 350, but it's worth a browse. Most of them are great little love stories from readers.
February 04, 2010
her eye was on the sparrow...
Marc by Marc Jacobs Petal To The Metal Flap Pouchette, $198.00 by Marc by Marc Jacobs at Endless.com
"We love the playful yet practical Petal To The Metal pouchette from Marc by Marc Jacobs. It's featured in supple, weathered Italian leather with topstitch detailing and an adorable bird-shaped logo plate. A dual-compartment interior and extra-long cross-body strap make it as convenient and easy as can be. Dust bag included."
Maybe I should just change the name of my blog to 'Shut up, i love that Marc by Marc on you.' I mean, right? Apparently I just can't get enough. But the man (and his minions) knows how to dream up a covetable bag or two.
I adore this collection of bags with the bird logo plate. I think it's much more subtle and sweet than the standard super-shiny gold rectangle logo of late, and perfectly spring-y, too. (The outline of the bird's eye spells Marc by Marc Jacobs.) The detailing and seams of this bag also make it stand out from knock-off and discount styles.
I find the size of this little pouchette so appealing right now. My giant Paris bag seems to get heavier and more cavernous by the day, and my Paris clutch is perfection but requires being held all the time, like a small child. I've blogged my love of cross-body bags before, but this particular one definitely tops my list of investment-worthy accessories for Spring '10.
I like this brown leather, but it also comes in black, navy, dark purple, grey, pink and navy, I believe.
February 03, 2010
awfully mild January, but yep, it's still winter...
My mind is totally tra-la-la-ing as of late...Winter is just creeping along, taking it's sweet time, and I've been dwelling on it. This happens to me in Seattle every now and then. I tolerate (and even enjoy) the rain and rumbling clouds most days, but then boom - one day I can't help but look up at the grey skies and say, "Really? Still?"
You know what would cheer me up? How about a little snow, Mother Nature? Pretty please?
These pictures of Paris in the snow remind me of how beautiful and calm and quiet a city can become with just a dusting of white. Gimme that.
*Luckily, I think I will be able to sneak off to Sun Valley, Idaho for an extended long weekend over President's Day to get my snow fix. I need some sunny ski days, a night or two of dancing at Whiskey Jaques, a Bowl of Soul from Java, and a roaring fire asap. Then I think I'll survive through May.
And wouldn't you guys love some snow-bound outfit posts? Especially if I promise not to wear Uggs everyday?
February 03, 2010
mid-week music moment...
Put your number on this paper 'cause I would love to date ya, holler atcha when I come off tour...
I really, really love this version of Girls, Girls, Girls by Jay-Z. It's easy, breezy and perfect for this randomly warm and sunny weather we've been having in early February.
Happy Wednesday.
February 02, 2010
polish change: grey is the new black
If you know me, you know I have a weird obsession with O.P.I nail polishes. I love their names, and have always found they really have the best, trendiest colors that stay on for at least a week (with top coat, of course.) Spending a little less than $9 is usually worth it to me because I figure I do almost as good a job as a manicurist, and even if I only use it once, I'm saving money.
Just thought I'd throw out a personal recommendation for my newest color. It's part of O.P.I.'s Espana collection and it's called Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees.
It's a smoky dark, dark, grey. A perfect alternative to Lincoln Park After Dark, my fav dark-almost-black shade of purple.
Saucy. Love.
Ok, hope you're having a fabulous Tuesday.
February 02, 2010
beauty & the beach...
Milla Jovovich.
In various summery locations, looking classic & gorgeous.
Punxsutawney Phil, you are the worst. 6 more weeks of winter? Waaaa.
(images from FashionGoneRogue)
February 02, 2010
hey pretty baby with the high heels on...
Every now and then, I experience something while I'm out-and-about, that I like to call "a perfect storm of shopping." All the elements align, and the perfect piece meets the perfect price in just the right size.
I don't know if you guys knew about this, and I suppose I could have done you a favor and announced it here, but Banana Republic was having a deal where every Wednesday in January you could get a coupon to receive 40% off of one full-price item. I had said coupon, and leave it to me, I forgot about it until 6 p.m. on the last Wednesday.
After a long shift at Anthropologie, I wandered down the row of shops to Banana, hoping to find a little something. Long story short, my eyes fell right on these wooden-sole platform peep toe pumps in a soft grey leather. I turned them over and saw the totally digestible $98 price. 40% off? Don't mind if I do.
These heels are as tall as my tallest pair, but the platform and thick heel make them relatively comfortable and easy to walk in. (Seriously!) They will be great with my bf jeans and flowy tops in the spring, but per usual also great with tights until it gets warm out.
The final element in this perfect storm was that I forgot I had a $50 store credit to Banana, so the grand total for my saucy new shoes was... drum roll please... $5.
(Worn with my 7 For All Mankind boyfriend jeans)
They also come in brown, and I cannot find them online anywhere. And I don't know if she was just going for the hard sell, but the salesgirl told me this shoe was selling out all over the place...)
February 02, 2010
the LOST subway...
Tonight is the beginning of the final season of LOST. Even if you've been following as closely as possible, it's kind of hard to understand where (and sometimes when...) everything is. Some genius with a sense of humor created this handy subway map of The Island, and it's pretty incredible and very helpful! Enjoy.
(I believe if you click on it you should be able to expand it to it's original size and see what is actually written on the map!)
February 01, 2010
happy birthday Lauren Conrad - gimme those shades...
I nabbed this pic from Whitney Port's blog. I know, I'm really cool. Anyway, the point is, I was browsing these cute pictures of Lauren and Whitney looking all blond and bff-y. I'm really happy for them, but what I am focused on is Lauren's oversized Ray Ban Wayfarers. I thought these were an urban celebrity-style myth, but I found them the other day in an optical store in downtown Seattle.
The key to the mystery is that they are a men's style. No wonder I could never find them!
Clearly, all these clouds are making me stir-crazy for spring, summer, sunshine... all that good stuff.
I think I'm a bit nervous to buy them online where you can't tell exactly how large they are, but I think these, on Zappos.com are the ones.
(Thats Anna Dello Russo (via Garance Dore) wearing them, too.)
February 01, 2010
i feel you, Sea of Shoes...
(photo from Sea Of Shoes)
It's grey and blah this Monday morning. I'm stilllll feeling a bit under the weather, but I promise I'm working on some good posts for this week :)
xoxo
February 01, 2010
the beginning of the end...
The final season of LOST begins tomorrow night. In case you're not a devoted fan, or if you are and you just don't have time to re-watch all 5 seasons in preparation for tomorow, here's everything you need to know, in 8.5 minutes.
I'm. Just. So. Excited.
January 29, 2010
just break it on down a little...
Take a cue from Micheal Cera and Jonah Hill this weekend...
Let loose. Move your feet. Hit the dancefloor.
xoxo
January 29, 2010
i think we all felt this way about mr. salinger...
“
What really knocks me out is a book, when you're all done reading it, you wished the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it.
”J.D. Salinger, from Catcher in the Rye
January 29, 2010
i don't need A vacation, i need THIS vacation...
Hello, you.
I was just browsing the February issue of SKI magazine (with Sun Valley on the cover!) and I stumbled upon this winter treasure on page 40...Please take in the new Ritz-Carlton Highlands in Northstar-At-Tahoe, Califronia. It's a ski-in ski-out hotel nestled halfway up the mountain at Northstar, and is accessed by gondola from the village below. Every room has a fireplace and goose-down comforters. The 17,000 square-foot spa has a heated outdoor lap pool. Their restaurant also boasts a world-class chef imported from San Fran serving up French-California cuisine. Sign. Me. Up.
Please? Someone? Just for like, a week?
(Rates range from $249 - $699 a night.)
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