Wide Awake

Coming soon, my bedroom redo...

On Your Way In

You've seen me take outfit shots many times in front of this wall with some of my shoes.  And I've switched things out a few times until I had an arrangement I was pleased with.  I think this area well reflects who I am and some of my passions as an artist.  So finally, here is my Foyer all done up.

I moved this rug from my bedroom to this area for its durability for high-traffic.

I've always wanted a gallery wall, so I just used pieces I already owned and printed off some of my photography to frame.  I'm sure this wall will always evolve.

Close ups

Left side:  Picture of sunset I took in Mexico, the cover of my self-published poetry book, photo I took on my horse in Mexico.

Right side: First initial, photos of me taken in a photobooth after a makeover(sorry for the glare), my nephew

Middle:  Painting purchased in the Dominican Republic from local artist

Right side:  Favorite poem by Nikki Giovanni, "Choices," 

Bottom:  Online school Diploma for Interior Decorating

So what do you think about Gallery Walls?  Do you have one?

Hot Pink

This silk blazer is one of my favorite thrift finds because of its bold hot pink color.  After removing the 80's shoulder pads and rolling up the sleeves, I'm all set.

Blazer - Thrift

Slacks & Scarf - The Limited

Tee - Old Navy

BX by Bronx Boots - DSW

Leather Cuff - Toronto Shop

Fashion & Style

I recently watched the Bill Cunningham New York documentary and was very inspired by his quotes and some of the others interviewed.  My favorite quotes from Bill were:

"Fashion...it's the armor to survive the reality of everyday life."

"It's the clothes, not the celebrity, and not the spectacle."

"I look for what I think a woman could wear, would wear, and whether it would fit a human body, other than the model...If it isn't something a woman could wear, I have no interest in it."

"My hat salon was on the 10th floor.  Ginger Rogers used to come and Joan Crawford, Marilyn Monroe was one, and I had no interest cause they weren't stylish."

I highly recommend this documentary on Bill who is very down to earth and has a photographic eye directed towards style and not for who that person is, rather they be a New York Socialite or a teen on their way to school.  Bill Cunningham is someone who doesn't care about where he resides or what he eats, his real enjoyment and sustenance in life comes from style and fashion.

Jacket - Ross

Maxi Dress - Filene's Basement

Boots - Nine West

Cuff - Ava Black

Lipstick - Media by Mac

Ring - TJ Maxx

Summer 2011 Wrap Up!

Here are some of my favorite looks from this Summer.

SN:  I sure wore a lot of black this Summer.

Thank you to all of my followers of old and a big welcome my new readers.  I hope you all stick around for another season of styling.

Happy Fall...the best fashion season!

Fall Prep

Last night I unpacked some Fall essentials in preparation for the cooler weather. 

I started with all 20 of my hats, which I think I have a hat addiction. The hot pink cloche is the latest purchase from Filene's Basement. 

And here are some of them displayed replacing the summer lids.

I also recently realized that two modest sized closets in my apartment just wasn't enough, so I purchased this industrial strength garment rack from Target.  It packs a mean punch with weight and I have all my skirts and dresses hung for easy access.

And that bag hanging on the left was a gift from my friend.  I adore that my friends support my love of vintage.

Vintage Bonwit Teller handbag in stellar condition.  How beautiful is this burgundy color!

Well I'm all set and ready for Fall, are you?

Pretty Pleats

Despite the rain this past Sunday, I ventured over to the Logan Square neighborhood in Chicago for another round at the Vintage Bazaar.  I only found this one dress, but it was well worth it for such a great vintage piece. 

Dress - Vintage Bazaar

Necklace - The Limited

Steve Madden Shoes - DSW

Hat - Target

Flower - DIY

Bracelet - Forever 21

See previous items from the Vintage Bazaar here, here and here.

Bargain Store

From most of my posts and seeing that I source a lot of my clothes from Filene's Basement, I thought I'd just talk a little about my favorite store.  You can find all prices ranges there, from store brands to high end designers.  In a way, it reminds me of Century 21 in New York, but more neat and organized.  You really can't beat the prices and then the frequent sales events just adds to the bargains to be had.  I can always find a pair of shoes or a dress for that special occasion.  If you have one in your city, definitely check it out.  What is your favorite discount store?

American Eagle Jacket - Filene's Basement

Jeans - Gap

Tee - H&M

Kelly & Katie Boots - DSW

Scarf - Forever 21

Belt - Target

Lipstick - Mac (Media)

A Different Animal

I love leopard print just as much as the next girl, but switching it up to a different animal is a nice change of pace. 

When I saw this zebra print pencil skirt, I quickly slipped it on and was so pleased that it fit perfectly.  So in love!  Gave the black and white my favorite pop with red.

Cardigan - Marshall's

Top - Kohl's

Skirt - American Thrift Store

Nine West Shoes - Marshall's

Black & Gold

I normally prefer silver jewelry and accents, but every now and then I like gold accessories to give an elegant feel to an outfit.

Tunic Top - H&M (old)

Skirt - Marshall's

Shoes - Nine West

Belt - Gap

Earrings - Anthropologie