Friday, September 21, 2012

White Collar

So I did a post on collared shirts the other day, because I love them, but I noticed today that whowhatwear.com is showcasing these collar necklace things, which inspired me to post again.

Obviously, to each his own, but I just don't care for these little add on collars, I think because what I like about collared shirts has to do with the shirt part. I love the button down look, the structured shoulders. The collar is just a portion of it. I'd like to add some other suggestions for collar ideas, which go beyond adding a pointy 2 sided necklace to your sweater. How about just embellishing your existing collar? Asos.com has some cool ways to do this, and you literally can morph your top into a different one! What an efficient accessory it is!

Find these "collar tips" at Asos for only $17.25!
If you want to get a bit more authentic with it, or just casual, find a lariat (I think that's what they are called), ya know, a cowboy's "necklace," and put this around your collar. I admit, these "lariats" are not really that easy to find, which leads me to believe I probably am searching under the wrong term, but anyways, you probably could wrangle up a few on Etsy.com.

5 minutes later: I've come to find that these might be called "bolo ties." Search under this term instead.

More "bolo ties" here

If you aren't ready to dive so far into the wild world of western wear just yet, try a necklace around your collar instead, just to "tie" everything together. haha. It will immediately make your look shirt more polished, and give the westerny/menswear effect. 

Found here. Just focus on the collar.
And last but NOT least, isn't this just a beautify top, below? Love the leather detail. 

This sweater is by VEDA. Find it at Revolve Clothing.



Thursday, September 20, 2012

Fall Needs

A few other things came to mind as I have begun creating my fall shopping list - I think it's the high 70's/low 50s sunny weather here in Manhattan that has got me going :) Here are the items I want/need/might order today, if all goes as planned:
Ash Motorcycle Boot
1. ) Literally I can't explain my need for these Ash Motorcycle Boots. I'm ordering today. Hopefully they are comfortable enough to walk 1.82 miles in (home --> work). Find them here with the black studs - rather than the silver ones. Oh, I cannot wait to put these on!!!


Also really like these Sam Edelman "Aster" flats. The texture is a little exotic and they are a good  alternative to the typical flats. Also hope they somehow come with gelly/airy/spring bottoms, but I doubt it...

More to come, from my Fall List. If you are working on yours, check out Piperlime - I really didn't know much about the site (Except that it's part of Gap), but I like that they have a "Girl on a Budget" section with some good picks from their celebrity editors like Olivia Polermo and Rachel Zoe. Rachel Zoe also has an Editor's Pick tab that I think is the BEST. Perfect solid, timeless pieces with cool textures and structured cuts. Things you can wear for a while, and always look put together. Like this bag must add to listttt :)

The "Werdie" Bag by Marc Jacobs. How cute is that name? Find it here.

Also, if you are a new shopper, be sure to sign up with your email to receive a 15% off everything! Extra deals are always nice.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Lean Back

In perusing potential leather jackets for the Fall, and also checking out some other blogs, I came across this great image, below. The post happened to be full of different colored leathers, but even better are the awesome photos. Enjoy!
Find it, and MORE, here.
After checking out the season's styles, I realize I am still more tempted by the traditional jackets - either motorcycle or  shawl collar. Love this one (below) by Burberry - but wish the sleeves were a bit longer. Why are they all around 24-25"?!!
Find this at Neiman Marcus
And this one I LOVE - especially the fit - and you can tell how supple (don't love that word) the leather is just from the photo. Think I will probably go with this style.
Find it here 
And if you too are in the market for a new leather jacket, check out Revolve Clothing  - they have a really good selection right now.
Another cool image from Purse 'n Boots Blog

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Ever Since I Can Remember

I've loved collared shirts. They are timeless and add just enough of a menswear inspired touch to any look. Classic and structured and perfect. I feel like even a ponytail becomes stylish with a fitted collared shirt.

Here are some looks that I love from shopbop. BTW, Shopbop has revamped there site, which I would be very curious to know more about. A) Has it helped with sales? I actually think it's harder to navigate and less aesthetically appealing, but the proof is in the sales! B) Why are items not tagged properly! Just googled collared shirt" and received one item. Not good!

By Tibi

And oh how I love this. And even as good from the back!
Find here, at Singer22

Friday, September 14, 2012

Trendzzz

This just came up on WhoWhatWear... are they serious? Man, I can't even imagine how many men would be drooling after the "girl in the tiger sweater." Seems like a prime product for the ManRepeller..

On a prettier note, this is awesome for fall. So many options with this one! I want I want.

I wish I had ordered it in advance. It would make the perfect outfit to wear this weekend, to the Brisket Lab.(Joking, kinda). My friend invited me to her neck of the woods to go taste some brisket and OMG doesnt it look sooo good. http://newyork.seriouseats.com/2012/08/daniel-delaneys-brisketlab-is-some-legit-texas-barbecue.html So may things to try in this city, and so much good food!!

How cool is this look btw?
More here!




Monday, September 10, 2012

Beauty Balms

So this is a but astray from my normal posts, but I do LOVE beauty products and I also love learning about what's new, and sometimes, what is being reinvented. I've tried a lot of what's out there and consider myself pretty familiar with both skincare and cosmetic product mixes. A new product to the market that I thought I would share is Garnier's BB Cream. It's basically like a tinted moisturizer on steroids: more skin benefits, more SPF, and in my opinion, better coverage.
Buy it here,  or at your local drugstore.


I enjoy staying aware of new drugstore products and love studying their packaging, but I've found as a general trend that price does (most of the time) impact the quality of beauty products. There are always exceptions to the rule, however. I have long gone with Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer and recently switched to Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm, but I saw an ad for the Garnier product and of course needed to test it out.


I actually purchased the light and the dark formula and mix them together to get a more fitting blend. This product smells great (in line with other Garnier scents), and the color and texture is really smooth. In the past, I've found that it's the texture & pigment that differentiates drugstore level cosmetics (skin, lip and eye) from more upscale products. This BB Cream is actually the first drugstore cosmetic product (aside from Maybelline mascara) that I've wanted to consistently use in a long time, and the value is great. From a marketing perspective, a huge selling point to me was that the cream was grouped with the skincare products (although there was most likely no other option - Garnier doesn't have cosmetics, right?), but casting this skincare feel on the product reinvents it and creates a bit of a wedge between it and other tinted moisturizers. The fact that you can call it "balm" but it actually serves as a kind of foundation isn't a bad strategy either. Good job, Garnier.

If you're interested in further researching these BB creams, this article is helpful.  So have you tried the beauty balm? Do you think it's just a fad, or is it the modern day tinted moisturizer? How do you think the drugstore versions stack up to the higher end products?

Friday, September 7, 2012

Stay-cation

Another small leave of absence I've taken, as I recently moved to a new (much cooler) apartment and done some other random things. But in the midst of "building" my new room - nesting, if you will, I've found some things that... I just really want I just really need. Again, I find etsy housing lots of these thingys.
1. Raw Wood Coat Rack
I'm going to possibly, potentially try and make this on my own. Once I find wood. And a saw.
2. This Surreal Photo. It called to me with it's title "Room for Rent."
Apartment hunting in NYC is NOT FUN. And that is as polite as I can be about it. (I get frustrated when I even think about the 3 weeks I spent with my roommate walking into little dumpy shitholes with sweaty brokers telling us that it was the best thing we were going to see in our lifetimes. Anyways, 3 weeks, 45 apartments, 6 open houses and 4 application rejections later (we were "outbid"), we got a palace.) With a terrace. yea.
3. This is kind of cool because it's a wooden sign that you can customize. Make it your own.
I have an idea of what I would want it to say, but I assure you, it will be nothing like "Dream" or "Laugh Out Loud" or something "Home Sweet Home." I also think that given that I already have a deer head (horns, no head) hanging above my nightstand, which casts a shadow on my ceiling (Cool), that this cowboy would most likely be overkill and I should bring out the rustic theme in other areas. So I think I will do that. Anyways, still a kind of cool thing.
4. Lastly, there is this rustic looking painting that I really like the colors of. 
I like anything like this where you look at a photo/painting/small birdhouse/whatever and you think, "I'd live in that, or at least walk around in it, if I could.

So these are my current little prizes that I want to win.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Leave of Absence

But I'm Back!! One quick pic to kick the day off below. Look how beautiful the Brooklyn Bridge is at dusk!! New York has the best sunsets sometimes.
From Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights, for dinner with friends.
And this was the adorable row of townhomes we went to on Columbia Place, like an old Southern town! 


Thursday, August 9, 2012

Stylish Dressers

Rugged chic in the bedroom? You bet. Quick post, but awesome products below. Check West Elm for more.

Find it here. I LOVE this bed.
Here is the matching dresser. I've find similar woodsey items on Etsy like this, although I'm not quite sure how Etsy handles shipping... dressers. This is definitely going to be in my new room. If I get the new apartment I'm hoping on.;)

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Good Boots, Bad Boots

There are so many cool cowboy-esque boots out there. So many choices, some with studs, some with color, heels, high rise and what not. So many have really cool accents that make them edgy, or rugged, and some... take me back to a costume from the Dixie Stampede. For those of you who don't know what this is (a. you should be proud of yourself) it is a "dinner / show" that I saw in Orlando, or was it Gatlinburg kinda the same thing, just one has mountains where actors dress in cowboy & cowgirl attire & gallop (literally) around a dirt filled stage while you eat oregon trail style mass produced baked potatoes & other 'meats' with your fingers. But back to the point.

The thing with cowboy boots is that some can be so cool, and some can be so... Dixie. See the powder blue example below.
Taken from here 
Again, to each his own, but I am just not sure where you'd where these puppies? They are just a bit to blue for my tastes. Imagine these added to a pair of denim jeans. Now how do you feel? They are also featured  here on the country outfitter blog, which does a nice job comparing the trend with the Isabel Marant Fall 2012 looks (below) that showcase some cremey colored boots. But anyways, these boots ≠ my fave.
But I do love THIS version. If you want more, visit the site. 

I think this leads us to why the ankle boots are so popular this season. Because they have a short cut, and even with a western influence, will not morph your look into that of a rancher/farmhand. Please note that the Isabel Marant looks are extreme western, in a fashionable way, but keep in mind... this is runway, and the looks are modeled...on MODELS.
Get em while they're hot. Somewhere on this page.  PS. I love the studs.
What's great about these runway looks (more below) that can be translated into everyday life - is that the designer uses a Western style to influence the line, but also employs leather, lace & studs to give it character and make it new! This is a good tactic that can be used when working with western pieces that are oh so popular today. Wearing boots? Add a stud belt. A little contrast is always good.
Check out these awesome ensembles here
So what is your take on this wave of western? Do you think it will last? Would love to hear some feedback on this style. And most importantly, should the Blue Boots get THE BOOT?!!

Sunday, July 29, 2012

A Quickie

It's a Sunday and I'm not usually a bit typer on these days of rest, but I did want to quickly show something that got me reallyyy excited this morning ok it's actually noon.  Check out the "Spaghetti Weaterns" post on WhoWhatWear.com for some great western finds! They go into a bit of detail about how western films have influenced fashion and show some key pieces.
Visit the site here!
I'm most excited about this asos Leather satchel. Love the compact shape and this rich color leather. Best, it's a great price. Treat yourself to a little something this weekend!
From asos.com

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Brand New Set of Wings

While watching the Bachelorette last night with my roommates (*I don't particularly care for this show mainly because her vocabulary is so limited I get bored, but I watched it because it was DVRed, plus Emily's Charlotte house is near my parents') and she was wearing a few cool things. One that stood out to me was this eagle necklace, only because I've been looking for one but have found there to be a fine line between cool and American-y, and just too rednecky for even my tastes.
Emily's gear (and photo) found at this blog
The one she is wearing above, sorry it's not a great picture of anything, is by Robyn Rhodes and there are some really cool things in her online store. The necklace (below) is the actual one Emily is wearing and it's a really pretty piece. You could tell by the last episode (my media source says this is what she wore episode 3 but who cares) they were trying to liven her look up a bit (Navajo sequin skirt, Motorcycle tank, Eagle necklace, oh my!), but I like this designer because it's affordable and hand painted. 
Find this necklace by Robyn Rhodes Here
Then, while I was searching other cool birdy inspired necklaces, I came across this delicate & sweet necklace that I will feature, now, below. I call it, the clawwww.

This is a multi function necklace, that doubles as a fork. You can also use it to hand your friends skittles, and other small trinkets like that. 

Friday, July 20, 2012

Good Eyeee

If you appreciate this kind of style... ya know, the entire point of my blog... then check out these photos I just came across on the blog purse 'n boots. They are amazing. Awesome outfits, and just great photos. 
Here's a little taste:





Yea? Yeaaaa.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Shades of Grey, and Green

Today on Who.What.Wear they have an article about camo coming back into town! But they do a great job pairing it in the most tasteful way camouflage can be paired, with a collared denim shirt, a long blazer, over a flapper dress. Pretty cool in my opinion. We haven't seen much camo (that I can remember) since the late 90's grunge period, brought back in 2008 by the lovely Mary Kate, but hey!, it may or  may not be making its return.
Found this great look on Atlantic-Pacific. 
While rising search queries prove that this fad is on the rise, I'm not sure if it has quite made it to a trend yet. But we shall see. The truth is, this style isn't for everyone and it can also easily become costume-y (or just scary) - BUT if done right, it can be really cool. See below. More pieces here if you want to shop around.
This pic was taken from here - a great blog with more camo options!


If you want to try "blending in" (except you wont), check out these pieces that incorporate the print but are still stylish and flattering.
This studded camo jacket is from TopShop and retails for $130.
These skinny ankle pants are Current/Elliot, found at OtteNY.com 
So what are your thoughts on this look? Is it chic? (maybe)  Is it redneck? (yes.) If you have seen any cool renditions of this look, please post the links! I am eager to see how others have interpreted this style. I also tried searching for celebrities in camo, assuming it was the next big thing after seeing it featured on the homepage I mentioned earlier, but really didn't find many images. Just the usually Rhiannas and obviously Mileys of the world rocking the print. 

While I like the looks created on Who What Wear, and I like that camo adds that edginess, especially paired with other textures & girlier styles, I think my hesitation towards the look just comes from what I associate it with. After living in the south, I can sum it up in one word: HUNTING (but that is just me). So the real question is, does camo have potential to go from redneck to chic?

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Go West Young Man

So on my flight to Chicago this morning, at the wee hour of 6:00am, I made a fabulous discovery that enhanced my mood greatly (ok, only slightly. as it was 6am). I was reading the August edition of GLAMOUR mag and found a whole write up on Western Wear! Do you believe it? I do, bc it's great. Western wear seems to be popping up everywhere from better designers to fast fashion stores. Similar to one of the shirts they featured (or maybe this is it) was this Alexander McQueen Western Button Up which is awesome. My friend asked me if I would wear it... (Duhh). And it's kind of like a new but obviously vintage inspired take on the chambray shirt that we've seen so much. Here is a Jean/Western Mix from Jcrew.com, but in my opinion, it's better to commit to the style. Give it a shot. Test it out in your neck of the woods.Try this on (below) for inspiration.
From Rag&Bone, find it here.
There are a lot of great renditions and takes on this Western inspired trend, like this tank and lace combo  (pictured below), at Nastygal.com, baby. Best part? It's $38. And so great with some short shorts & ankle boots (see a few posts prior to this one). Another sleeveless shirt I love is this peachy colored one embellished at the collar, from Pixiemarket.com.
Asos.com also has this Ralph Lauren studded pocket shirt in denim, which is cool, too. But I wouldn't say that you couldn't try making that one yourself. Be sure to add some accessories to this western outfit to make it clear that you are purposely dressing in the style and you know exactly what you're doing ;) - rather than getting mistaken for a "Hey, Dude" cast member circa early 2000s. Oh, and if you're really on the fence, check out this new little secret I found. You can give the western look a little test drive, if you will, before committing to the pricier stuff.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Denim Dress-ings

This season has many basic-turned-chic items that are rising in popularity. One such lovely item making its appearance this Summer is the Denim shirt dress, which is basically a blank canvas for whatever look you want to create. You literally can match any accessories and shoes with it and come up with a completely different outfit. I love this little number for the fall, but also click here and check out some great other denim looks.

For Summer, there are a bunch of cut-off denim shirt dresses that are so flattering & quite charming - not something I normally go for, but whatevs. This one below by below, by Rag & Bone (buy it here) is my favorite, and is so chic, especially with little tan ankle boots. Another similar dress at a more reasonable price point is this shift dress by Free People, which is $128.80 on their site. 

Someone who always makes denim chic is the boho creator, Sienna Miller. In my eyes, she literally can do no wrong, and is an expert at putting pieces together in an unconventional way that visually works so well. Here she is pregnant, and has added some leggings & a blazer to the denim dress that she initially wore with only bangles. 


If you're down for denim, definitely hop on this trend and find the style that bets fits your personality, and your bod. There are fitted waist styles and shift dresses, collars, button downs & more. ASOS has a good selection right now & a few western styles like this one that are pretty irresistible. Either way, you will not go wrong, and can be sure that this is something you will hold onto for future seasons. Ah, the joys of denim.