FashionAntics

Boots and Roots

2010-08-24T15:59:00.000-07:00

Scarf: H&M

Dolman Sleeve Top: Lulu's

Jeggings: H&M

Combat Boots: Steve Madden

Acrylic Bangle: Old Navy

Brass Dream Catcher Earrings: World Market

Thankfully I'll be taking care of the whole not-so-cute root situation in, oh, 21 minutes.

I may have gone a little nuts shopping with my mom last weekend, but I'm ok way that because it resulted in the purchase of the fan-freaking-tastic combat boots. And the jeggings. And the scarf. And some other stuff...

Really?

2010-07-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

Shoes: Colin Stuart, Victoria's Secret

Denim Cutoffs: Wet Seal

Top: Forever 21

Vest: Mossimo, Target

Earrings: Vintage

Necklace: H & M

Bracelets: Saints bracelet, gift from friend. Brown wood bracelet, San Jose flea market

Sunglasses: Club Monaco

It's been five months since I last posted anything? Actually, I can believe it; a lot has happened. Long story short, I fell out of love with blogging after the loss of a close friend. Then I found this pair of shoes that the two of us had been looking for for at least the last five summers and got re-inspired. You know, that perfect pair of wedges/espadrilles that go with everything and are comfortable to boot??? Found 'em.

Ruffles and Whatnot

2010-02-15T09:47:00.000-08:00

Purse, Michael Kors. Houndstooth scarf and brown cardigan, Target. Sunglasses, Ray Ban. Denim jacket, Old Navy. Brown woven leather belt, thrifted. Gray and black ruffled dress, Miley Cyrus/Max Azria for Walmart. Black leggings, Styles. Black boots with buckles, Forever 21. Abstract gold ring, Kenneth Cole. Earrings, vintage.

Apparently riding a bike while wearing a short dress and heels is not nearly as chic as all those Parisian women make it look. Good thing I decided to wear solid black leggings beneath said dress or the whole look would have been downright obscene.

Well, I'm off to the Bay Area for the week. I'm hoping to get in a little shopping but I'm pretty sure my mom has other plans for me.

Nude Up

2010-02-09T22:09:00.000-08:00

Jacket, Elie Tahari. Red striped blouse, Faded Glory. White tank, Styles. Dark denim skinny jeans, Hudson Jeans. Nude pumps, Mossimo. Feather earrings, Forever 21.

So, I'm kind of obsessed with these nude pumps that I found at Target the other day. Obsessed as in Jer suggested that I sleep in them since I love them so much and I seriously considered doing so. Seriously. I thought the spiked heel might puncture my fine linens and I couldn't have that, so it was a no-go. For now.

And how perfect is this jacket? I've had it since I was in high school, back when I could spend hundreds of dollars on a single piece and not feel pangs of guilt with every step I took out of the store's door. Ahh, the good 'ol days.

Patio Post

2010-02-05T14:55:00.000-08:00

Light wash denim jacket, Old Navy. Black cardigan, thrifted. Winter white slouchy top, Forever 21. Gold chain earrings, Kenneth Cole. Four pocket slouchy purse and gold charms and agate necklace, Styles. Black wrap skirt, Pink Rose. Black tights, DKNY. Brass button booties, Seychelles.

Yea!!! The sun finally decided to come out today! I couldn't ask for a better end to the work week, not to mention it happens to be a certain someone's anniversary...ahem, Jer, in case you forgot. Just kidding guys, he would never forget...

I don't know how I keep forgetting about these little booties I'm wearing today, but every time I put them on I remember how freaking comfortable they are for being 4 inch heels!

So the other day one of my favorite blogging buddies over at kookulai commented that I usually dress a bit more on the masculine side of the pendulum and it really got me thinking. Why do I always wear pants and blazers when I have a closet full of dresses and skirts that I never wear? Well, I'm hoping this fluffy skirt and tights combo swings me back towards the feminine side.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! I know I will...

No Less Wisdom. I'm Hoping...

2010-02-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

Winter white knit cardigan, Kimchi & Blue. Leather woven belt and black tunic, thrifted. Gray skinny jeans, Citizens of Humanity. Black leather ankle boots, Aldo. Beaded earrings, Forever 21. Smoky topaz ring and brass necklace, gifts from Mom.

Back from getting those pesky wisdom teeth taken out. Just barely though. Day one- making incoherent small talk with the after-care nurses. Day three- I didn't think I was going to make it. Day six- no amount of pain could keep me from getting a manicure, courtesy of my lovely boyfriend. And I'm BACK!

About that manicure; I brought my own polish, Rimmel in Steel Grey. It looks more like a mushroom color to me and I'm loving it. I was actually really surprised that I found such a cool color at the drugstore. It usually takes years-literally-to get good colors up here in no man's land.

Oh, and some of the photos were taken pre-mani, in case anyone was wondering why I only have nail polish on in some of the pics.

I hope everyone is having a fabulous day!!! See ya!

Blue Tuesday

2010-01-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Blue silk blouse and rings, Forever 21. Black leather skirt, vintage. Black tights, Nordstrom. Open toe ankle boots, BCBG. Art deco silver pendant, feather cuff, and interlocking circle bracelet, gifts from Mom. Locket necklace, Lulu's.

I'm having serious trouble with my camera remote again... I've been using the self timer function on my camera which makes for a long and unproductive photo session. That look on my face is genuine irritation, not faux boredom.

Enough of the griping though...

Let's talk about the color of this shirt. Amazing, right? And the fact that it's 100% silk? Double amazing. And the fact that I got it on sale for $16? That's the holy trinity of an amazing blouse my friends.

On a different note, I'll be getting my wisdom teeth taken out tomorrow so it looks like I'll be taking another mini hiatus from blogging, but I'll be back. Oh, I'll be back alright...

Tie-Dye For

2010-01-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

Black studded cropped jacket, tie-dye skinny jeans, and chain accessories, Forever 21. Gray tank, Lulu's. Black leather ankle boots, Aldo. Silver earrings and smoky topaz ring, gifts from Mom. Silver and gold studded clutch and black cardigan, vintage/thrifted.

I cannot catch a break. Between forced slave labor and the rain I seriously cannot find a time or place to catch up with my blogging! Fortunately I was able to pop outside between downpours to snap a couple photos, and now that I've replaced the batteries in my camera remote there are no more excuses for me not to get back on track.

So, both my dad and Jer insist these pants look like camouflage pants despite my constantly telling them they are tie-dyed. The only camouflaging I could be doing in these pants would be if I were hiding from a color blind hippie at a reggae festival. I'm not the crazy one, right?

Back In Black

2010-01-06T07:53:00.001-08:00

Cracked liquid leggings, velvet pumps, blazer, scarf, and sunglasses, Forever 21 (how did that happen?) Black top, vintage. Glass earrings, Lulu's.

Sometimes when the weather is all cold and gray, I simply can't help but wear all black and gray. Why do I have the feeling that if I had only worn bright yellow hot pants the sun would have shown its face for a minute or two? Hmmm...maybe tomorrow. About the sun, not the hot pants. Well, maybe the hot pants.

I Wear My Sunglasses At Night

2010-01-04T21:17:00.001-08:00

Gold top, silk clutch, and tights, vintage. Black velvet heels, sunglasses and ring, Forever 21. Black skirt w/ back zipper, Pink Rose.

Happy New Years everyone!!! We'll just call this my New Years Eve outfit. Snappa battles and heated arguments over Radiohead were two of many reasons my outfit didn't come to fruition that night. Ahhh but it should have...

"Pull over!" "No officer, it's actually a cardigan."

2009-12-27T16:19:00.000-08:00

Gray cardigan w/flower and stone embellishment, black velvet heels, and rings on left hand, Forever 21. Skinny jeans, Rock and Republic. Random black tee, TJ Maxx. Black leather drawstring purse, BCBG. Abstract gold ring, Kenneth Cole. Pearl and chain necklace, vintage. Sunglasses, Ray Ban.

I finally have a renewed drive for blogging. I think it has to do with all the Christmas goodies I raked in over the holidays. I'm especially impressed with Jer, who ordered me a little something from American Apparel. But more on that later...

I hope everyone out there had as good a holiday season as I, and I certainly can't wait to see what everyone puts together for New Years Eve. Let me guess...sequins anyone???

Seeing Red

2009-12-20T13:50:00.000-08:00

Red beaded earrings, gold necklace, red leather clutch, black top, and brown leather riding boots w/fringe, all vintage. Mauve'ish skinny jeans, Lulu's. Brown military jacket, H&M.

I don't know if it's the cold gray weather or the holiday over-eating that has finally caught up with me, but I just can't seem to get it together as far as inspiring outfits go. Jer and I got back inside after taking pictures just as the first rain of the day started. Stupid rain.

Alright, enough of the pity party and on to the good stuff...

I was wandering around on Chicisimo earlier today and I saw not only that my sweatpants post made it into the "Best Outfits of the Week" category, but that a wonderful blogger at fashionwithoutguilt.com featured me as her look of the day because of those sweatpants too! Thank you so much! You have no idea how much that means to me.

And on a funny note, when I was down in the Bay Area over Thanksgiving I saw a bunch of trendy little hipsters wearing riding boots like these ones but then when I come back up here to farm-town USA the only people wearing riding boots are those that have literally just gotten off of a horse or tractor. I love it. Cowboy up, ya'll.

Rain Delay

2009-12-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

Black leather purse,vintage Liz Claiborne. Denim jacket, Old Navy. Green boyfriend tee and black pointy flats, Target. Amazing black stretch pants, vintage. Peacock earrings, Lulu's. Necklace and rings, Forever 21. Sunglasses, Club Monaco.

It's so hard to take pictures when it is pouring rain outside, something I think my fellow west coast bloggers can totally relate to this past week.

So here are a couple of photos from last week that I never posted. I was rushing off to work (hence the flats) but I made sure to drag Jer outside in his pj's to snap a few photos before I left.

I came across this purse in a huge bin in the back warehouse of the thrift store and I had to have it. I haven't changed purses since.

Trouser Time

2009-12-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

Gray pleated twill trousers, Victoria's Secret. White blazer, Theory. White tank, Styles. Gray and white feather scarf, H&M. White leather clutch, Gap. Black and white earrings, Forever 21. Silver engraved cuff, gift from Miss Raquel:) Black leather oxford heels, Tracy Ellen. Sunglasses, Club Monaco.

So, I know I really shouldn't be complaining about the cold seeing as I live in California and the weather is pretty mild compared to other parts of the world, but 20 degrees? Come on! As far as I'm concerned, if I cannot cuff my sweet new trousers (on sale at Victoria's Secret.com) without my ankles freezing to the point of immobility, then it's just too damn cold.

Liquid (Legging) Courage

2009-12-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Oatmeal frumpy cardigan, Target. Black tank, crushed liquid leggings, and accessories, Forever 21. Purse, TJ Maxx. Black leather ankle boots, Aldo. Gold aviators, Ray Ban.

There's something about skin-tight black liquid legging that make even a frumpy grandma cardigan look a little bad-ass. Black leather boots and a purse with a chain that could break a car window doesn't hurt either...

For those of you who were wondering why it took so long for me to post something, it's because I've been working at the thrift store like a mad woman; knee deep in dust-bunnies, moldy board games, feline urine soaked mismatched shoes, and various other asthma inducing substances.

On another note, I am always happy to see that Chicisimo featured a photo from one of my previous posts, so thank you Maria!

Sweatpants It Is

2009-11-27T21:29:00.000-08:00

Gray sweatpants, Norma Kamali for Walmart. White jersey top and necklace, Forever 21. Tuxedo jacket, Express. Silk clutch w/gold accent, vintage. Black leather open-toe boots, BCBG. Gold abstract ring, Kenneth Cole.

My sweatpant trousers finally came in the mail and I couldn't be happier. I know people say Walmart is the anti-Christ but how could that be so when they made such sublimely cozy pants and they arrived just in time for the post-Thanksgiving Day bloat? If sweatpant trousers are good enough for Hanna MacGibbon to wear at her Fall '09 show for Chloe, well, they are certainly good enough for me to spend $15. of my food budget on them. Indeed, Satan does take many forms...

I was able to coax my dad away from the pumpkin pie long enough to take these pictures over at our local college. Isn't it amazing what a professional photographer wielding a really good camera can do in just a few minutes? I'm so lucky to have such a talented photographer and artist for a father. With enough encouragement and gentle prodding he may eventually start his own blog to showcase some of his work; until then these photos will have to do.

And the lurker in the background of the second to last photo is just Jer, firmly affixed to his iPhone, checking hockey scores. Of course.

Holiday Sparkle

2009-11-26T16:16:00.000-08:00

Black blazer, Forever 21. Black tee, Target. Gunmetal sequined mini-skirt, Pink Rose. Black tights, DKNY. Black leather boots w/ties, Aldo. Navajo beaded earrings, Wet Seal.

Happy Thanksgiving!

My dad wanted me to add that one of these days I promise to do something with color. But until then, here's a little black to brighten the holidays.

A Grain of Salt

2009-11-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

Purple scarf and coral earrings, necklace, Forever 21. Black t-shirt and cut-off jean shorts, Wet Seal. Leather snap belt, Gap. Tights, DKNY. Cognac suede boots, Urban Outfitters. Brown cardigan, Lulu's. Sunglasses, Club Monaco.

I'm finally back home after a week of traveling between Sacramento and the Bay Area. While I was there I was able to spend some quality time with some of my good girlfriends that I grew up with and it always gets me thinking that I need to move back to the Bay Area sooner rather than later. The night was replete with intense discussions about models who kill themselves, members of the axis and allies, the difference between cold sores and herpes, and the advantages of wearing sweatpants in public. It wouldn't have been a true girls-night without a little salting of each other--yes, Jen literally salts people at random and says, "Get out of here slug!" It actually got to the point where her boyfriend had to take the salt shaker away from her.

I don't know how it happened but I was able to drag Jer away from his fantasy hockey league to go do a little shoe reconnaissance mission at the mall and take a couple pictures while we were there. All I'm going to say is that I may just have to forgo my hatred of faux leather for the time being...

At the Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn

2009-11-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

Black boyfriend blazer and metal accessories, Forever 21. Gray pleated silk top, TJ Maxx. Dark wash jeans, Rock and Republic. Black leather open-toe t-strap heels, Simply Vera, by Vera Wang.

I'm not really at the Holiday Inn, I just thought I'd stick with the rap-lyrics-as-blog-title thing I've been doing.

There's so many cool places to take pictures here at the hotel but I'm having a hard time dragging Jer away to explore because of his schedule while we're here. I managed to catch him on a 15 minute break to take these pics. Kind of a boring outfit, and not to make excuses but totally forgot to pack all the little accessories like belts, rings, scarves, ect. Oh well, I may just have to go mall exploring instead...

Sac Town, the Bay Area and Back Down

2009-11-18T16:44:00.000-08:00

Marching band jacket, Target. Satin trim taupe tunic and earrings, Forever 21. Black tights, DKNY. Black leather oxford heels, Ellen Tracy. Taupe leather purse, Michael Kors.

Jer and I are staying at this swanky hotel right on the Sacramento River because he has to attend some conference and I was able to steal him away for a moment to take some pictures on the river. Not only is it windy, but cold too. Looks like I'll be snuggling up in bed with my new Bazaar. Which reminds me, who here is terribly disappointed to see lame-ass Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson on the cover? What happened to the days of Carmen Kass and Kate Moss? I cannot stand to see celebrities on the covers of fashion magazines. Especially emo teen idols. (Jer would like me to add, "They're so emo their hair cuts itself." Sorry guys, I rolled my eyes too.)

It's A White Blazer Folks

2009-11-16T23:34:00.000-08:00

White blazer, Theory. Linen sequined and embroidered tank, Forever 21. Brown cardigan and sunglasses, Target. Light wash jeans, 7 For All Mankind. Booties, Seychelles. Earrings, Styles.

I'm kinda proud to say that I got this white Theory blazer when I was in high school (that was almost ten years ago) and it's STILL dope! I had to sew on new buttons because somehow over the years I lost one of the buttons, found it, kept the button on my vanity for a couple more years, lost the jacket, re-lost the button, then found the jacket, but the button was long gone by then. Oh the drama...

Jer and I will be traveling to Sacramento/Bay Area this entire week so posting will be sporadic at best. I'm using my dad's laptop right now and I'm hoping to convince him to let me borrow it for the trip. We shall see... I packed some goodies though so I hope I'll be able to do my usual Monday through Friday outfit posts for this week.

I would also like to thank the ladies over at Weardrobe and Chicisimo (<--go here, vote, poke around...) for featuring me again on their sites; it's always such a pleasant surprise to see myself featured over there! Thank you!

And you know I have to end this post by mentioning my most recent acquisition. Brace yourself...sweatpant trousers! I think I'm not the only one out there who is dying to wear sweatpants in public, but loathes the "white-trash" reference that is usually accompanied with doing so. Now that designers are making them in chic trouser shapes, those with a fashion conscience might just do it. I know I will.

Matchy Matchy

2009-11-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

Coral shirt-dress, Target. Screen-print cotton scarf, Forever 21. Denim jacket, Old Navy. Leather clutch, vintage. Leggings, Styles. Oxford heels, Ellen Tracy. Sunglasses, Club Monaco. Turquoise rings and earrings, gifts from Mom from Old Town San Diego and random art fairs.

When I don't know what to wear I always end up in something matchy-matchy. Clearly that's what happened yesterday. I blame it on a combination of massive amounts of dirty laundry and lack of jackets. And shoes. And accessories.

On a more exciting note, Jer and I are going camping tonight and I thought it would be fun to do a post on what we wore while camping, so we'll see how that works out. I better get to packing...

My Photographer is Back!

2009-11-12T10:54:00.000-08:00

Black leopard-lined tuxedo jacket, Express. White snake boyfriend tee, RVCA. Dark wash skinny jeans, Rock and Republic. Black leather snap belt, Gap. Black jersey scarf, H&M. Turquoise ring, Old Town San Diego. Black leather boots w/ties, Aldo. Red beaded wire earrings and leather messenger bag, vintage.

It is so much easier to get outfit pics when there is someone there to make sure you are actually in the photograph and you don't have to schlep around a tripod that won't collapse--it's stuck in the extended position and I can't for the life of me get it to collapse. Jer thinks he'll be spending his five days off from work watching hockey, playing NHL 09 on his X Box, and monitoring his Fantasy Hockey League, but I've got other plans for him...

I managed to drag him to Old Navy yesterday to check out the 50% off all outerwear "Item of the Week" thing they have going on right now, and I was a little disappointed to say the least. Our Old Navy up here doesn't carry half of the styles that are available in bigger cities. Sigh... But I did see a sweet little lacy bib-front tank that would look splendid beneath the bling-buttoned cardigans they have in every color imaginable.

In other shopping news, I've narrowed down my shoe search and was pleasantly surprised to find that good ol' Aldo had quite a few open toe strappy numbers that might just work out. I'd like to thank everyone who gave suggestions on where to find some of the shoes I'd mentioned in previous posts, I checked every single one of them out. Morgan, you were spot on! I'll be in San Fransisco next week, hopefully stomping around in a pair of something fantastic.

Lastly, does anyone remember that clothing catalogue Delia's? You know, the one you probably got in the mail when you were 12? I somehow got on their mailing list again 10+ years later and I found those mustard yellow skinny jeans I was looking for! You can order them in over 20 different sizes and four different lengths (which is AMAZING for those of us 5'10" and up), not to mention the 15 different colors! Also, they come in denim and corduroy. What? Jackpot! I'm totally getting in on this.

Walkabout

2009-11-11T12:15:00.000-08:00

Flower print chiffon top, feather earrings, and black ring, Forever 21. Cardigan and scarf, H &M. Woven leather belt and amazing stretch pants, vintage. Black leather boots w/buckles, Steve Madden. Sunglasses, Target.

Walking around the park with Jer and Taco. We stopped to take some pictures at the top of this hill. Rolling golden hills and California Oak trees. I've been taking pictures of this tree for years now.

Black Boots Red Nail Polish

2009-11-10T07:35:00.000-08:00

Black nylon bomber, metal leaf necklace, and green wire ring, Forever 21. Green glass earrings, vintage. Black cardigan with black pearl buttons, Esprit. Feather skirt and random black tee, TJ Maxx. Green bangles, Styles. Black tights, Calvin Klein. Knee-highs, Nordstrom. Black riding boots, Nine West.

There must be something counter productive in wearing knee-highs to cover up because it had the effect of making the whole look more risque had I just worn tights. That and people were giving me weird looks at the grocery store, but that totally could have been because I was having a major static electricity problem with this skirt. Who knows...

Moving on, the black cardigan that I've layered under this bomber jacket is from way back in my freshman year of high school. My mom wouldn't let me go to the Homecoming dance wearing a spaghetti strap XOXO number by itself so she bought me this cardigan to cover my shoulders. I only rediscovered it a couple weeks ago when I was cleaning out my old closet at my parents house. I also found a silk snake skin print slip dress and a leather jacket that I'm pretty excited about.

Also, I'd like to thank Chicisimo and Weardrobe for featuring me again. I actually didn't know about it until people stopped by here and commented that they found me via Chicisimo and Weardrobe, so thank you to all the folks over there!

Gray Clouds Gray Boots

2009-11-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

Betcha' can't tell which way the wind is blowing. This is my new favorite spot to take pictures. Usually there aren't very many people walking around so I don't feel like such a jack-ass taking pictures of myself, but that was not the case this time. It seemed like everybody and their mothers were out walking their dogs this day. There were landmines everywhere. I must have stepped in one without knowing because when I got home my little dog, Taco was particularly interested in my boots, which is strange because he's more of an open-toe slingback kind of dog...

Gray leather boots, vintage. Gray skinny jeans, Citizens of Humanity. Black nylon bomber jacket, silver necklace, black snake skin belt, and solid black ring, Forever 21. Silk short-sleeve crop top, vintage. Silver beaded thread earrings, Express circa 2000. Black and silver ring, vintage.

Orange You Glad I'm Not Wearing Skinny Jeans?

2009-11-06T08:09:00.000-08:00

I was wearing this orange scarf one day during my administrative law class which was held in this huge lecture hall with at least a hundred other students when the professor stopped mid sentence and said, "Janet, that's a beautiful scarf, an amazing color." I think I mumbled some sort of thank you, but what I am sure of is that the pretty orange color did NOT complement the bright red color of my face as I watched 100 sets of eyes descend upon my scarf and I. I think about that professor every time I put on that scarf now.

Changing subjects now, I'm getting really fed up with the clothes in my closet. I'm getting to the point where I don't think I can get much more creative with what I have until I get just a few key pieces to add to the mix.

Here is my list:
1. A leopard (possibly faux-fur, but maybe just print) swing jacket
2. Colored skinny jeans, I'm thinking mustard
3. Open toe suede ankle booties, I'm picturing them in a light gray, surprise, surprise...
4. Over the knee leather boots (like I've mentioned before, it's easier said than done--I've been looking forever)
5. Black leather lace up ankle to mid calf high-heel boots
6. Pretty much anything with a chunky 3" plus heel

I'm going to end the list there for now because the shoe list should actually be a list of its own and it's endless. I'll keep you posted on how acquiring all this all goes down.

Black cropped trench jacket, Weekend Wearhouse. Orange fringe scarf, white banded jersey top, wrap-around leather belt, turquoise earrings and cocktail ring, Forever 21. Turquoise chain-link bracelet, vintage. Leggings, Styles. Button-up booties, Seychelles.

Ruffles and Lace

2009-11-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

I was pretty excited to see that Marc Jacobs had a little ruffle action going on in the S/S' 10 ready-to-wear collection, come to think of it, there was a LOT of ruffle action. Ruffles on skirts, dresses, shirts, ruffled underwear as outerwear, a fanny pack, and what can only be described as ruffle scrunchies in the hair, oh my. I could definitely do without the latter two but it feels like anything is possible nowadays, so don't quote me on that...

Here I am getting my ruffle on under a bridge. It's a good thing some nimble tweaker didn't pop out of the cuts and steal my camera and tripod because there was no way I was going to be able to chase down some weirdo over masses of river rocks and broken glass in those sweet leather and lace cowboy boots. Although I probably would have tried...

Black chiffon ruffle bib top and beaded earrings, Forever 21. Taupe short-sleeve cardigan, Gap. 3-D brass bangle, Styles. Gray/purple skinny jeans, Lulu's. Black leather and lace ankle cowboy boots, vintage (Salvation Army, brand new for $8. Score!!!)

Feather and Black Leather

2009-11-03T12:13:00.000-08:00

I'm noticing a pattern with regards to what I buy. I cannot stay away from feathers and black leather. I read somewhere that black leather was on its way out and my heart sank a little. On its way out? Not in my closet, thank you very much! (Picture me snapping my fingers side to side as I say that.) As for feathers, I've been picking up feathers since I was a wee child so that has more to do with a general fascination with feathers than fashion. It was a day full of disappointment; the lighting and weather was just not cooperating with me as evidenced in these photos. Who's idea was it to be 80 degrees in November???

Peacock feather w/turquoise necklace, Lulu's. Violet jersey tank and black plastic ring, Forever 21. Black cardigan, vintage. Gray wool shorts, Express. Black tights, Nordstrom. Black leather boots w/buckles, Steve Madden. Gold and coral earrings, vintage. Black leather drawstring purse, BCBG.

Menswear

2009-11-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine told me last week that she had this boyfriend button-up shirt but she didn't know how to wear the shirt or what to pair it with. She went on to tell me that she actually Googled the words "how to wear a boyfriend shirt" and landed on some lovely girl's blog. I'm not going to lie, I was a bit offended that she (who knows I have a blog dedicated to fashion) didn't call me for advice or at least refer to my blog. After I got done slapping her around for treason, we did eventually come up with an outfit that suited her needs without stepping too far out of her comfort zone. I took it a step further pairing the boyfriend shirt with a blazer and oxford heels. Keeping the shirt barely tucked in and the sleeves of the blazer casually scrunched up prevents the look from being to stiff, while the pointy toe and three inch heel on the oxfords keep the menswear look from being too androgynous.

So for future reference ALLI, this is one way to rock the boyfriend shirt.

Black blazer, boyfriend shirt, and multi-tiered chain necklace, Forever 21. Dark skinny jeans, Hudson. Seat belt chain mesh belt, Express (circa 2000.) White tank, Styles. Metal pin bracelet and earrings, I have no clue where I got them, I've had them since I was 14 and STILL love them. Black leather oxford heels, Ellen Tracy. Nail polish, Hot For Chocolate, Revlon.

Peachy

2009-10-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

Still going strong with my plan to wear everything in my closet; this shiny peach monstrosity of a blouse was another impulse buy at a thrift store. I thought it was going to look Dynasty chic but it turned out to look just dy-NASTY. The ruffles around the neck and the flutter sleeve were a little out of control and way too reminiscent of Prince (or the artist formally known as? I don't even know...) I tried to tame it with a scarf and jean jacket but both the collar and cuffs kept busting out of there. I don't think this top with survive my closet downsizing.

I also wanted to thank Weardrobe again for featuring another post of mine on their site. Check it out if you guys haven't already!

Out of control peach ruffle top, vintage. Denim jacket, vintage Old Navy. Scarf and ring, Forever 21. Black leather woven belt, vintage courtesy of Mom. Black stovepipe jeans, True Religion. Black leather ankle boots, Aldo. Turquoise and gold chandelier earrings, Ralph Lauren. Gold aviator sunglasses, Ray-Ban.

Recycle, Reduce, Re-use.

2009-10-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Because of budget constraints, I am on a no-new-clothes-stint, forcing myself to wear everything in my closet starting with pieces that I've never worn. It can be fun to reincarnate and recycle pieces that you loved in the past, trying to make them current and fresh. This aquamarine flower cut-out top is a vintage piece I picked up during the summer but never got around to wearing until now. I think it might have been an old lady's beach cover-up in its past life (I swear it kind of smells like coconut and Virginia Slims.) Although on second thought, it does more exposing than covering up, hence the white cami underneath, so maybe not...

I also recycled these super light wash jeans, which I bought seven years ago and only wore them a few times. I had my mom help me rip the seams from the knees down and take in the flare to turn them into semi-skinny jeans. She thought it was too much work, and one calf is a little tighter than the other, but all-in-all I think it was worth it. The belt is a re-use vintage find too! Looks like I'm off to a good start.

Last, but definitely not least, Chicisimo-one of my favorite sites for street style-has featured my Miami Vice blazer outfit as one of the "Best Outfits of the Week" so if you haven't already voted, DO IT!!!

Aquamarine flower cut-out top and camel leather woven belt, vintage. Super light wash jeans, 7 For All Mankind. Strappy leather heels, Dolce Vita. Coral hoops and gemstone ring, Forever 21.

Tall Boots and Short Skirts

2009-10-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

How windy does it have to be to make a girls bangs go nutty? Not very windy at all.

I ended up having to put on these knee-highs (which aren't quite knee high) to keep my feet from swimming around in these boots (also not quite knee high.) I've been trying to find over the knee boots for the last three months but they never quite go over my knee. I have faith it will happen for me soon...

Brown suede not-so-knee-high boots, Aldo. Leather trim denim skirt, Gap. Leather woven belt and brass earrings, vintage. Brown cardigan, Lulu's. Plaid shirt and feather necklace, Wet Seal. Black tights and knee-high socks, Target.

And yea! for Weardrobe.com for being TOTALLY AWESOME. They featured my Boyfriend Jeans post photo this morning and totally made my day!!! Thanks you guys!!!

Thanks Weardrobe!!!

2009-10-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

Unless you're a blogging rookie like me, I'm sure you've all heard about Weardrobe.com which is a cool site for real girls to post everything worth blogging about in their weardrobe. I just got started with them today and I am super excited to announce that they featured me today! Check out the post and the rest of their site here. Yea!!!

Boyfriend Jeans

2009-10-27T09:36:00.000-07:00

Originally I bought these Diesel jeans for my bf but unfortunately they didn't fit him. Not wanting to waste a perfectly good pair of jeans, I tried them on and to my surprise they just happened to fit! Totally not planned, I swear. And then I noticed his watch totally worked with my shoes, one thing led to another and half of my outfit that day was his stuff. I don't know who his stylist is but she has great taste...

Boyfriend jeans, vintage Diesel. Black vest w/ties, Forever 21. Navy blue silk top, vintage. Metal and rope tribal belt, Urban Outfitters. Black leather open-toe booties, BCBG. Black leather watch, courtesy of bf, Guess. Clutch Clutch, vintage. Black leaf-skeleton earrings, Claire's.

On a different note, I was featured again on one of my favorite sites, Chicisimo. So check out the feature here and vote!!!

Reno 9-1-1

2009-10-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

I spent all last weekend walking my ass off all over downtown Reno, Nevada. Although I was thrilled that I found these Aldo boots I bought, then lost in my closet three years ago, my feet were not. It was fun to be in a big city again (the littlest big city to be precise) and I wish I had time to get more photos taken. This is kind of a simple outfit, not terribly interesting, but they are generally the posts that get the most response, so here it is.

Light wash denim jacket, vintage Old Navy. Floral chiffon top w/neck tie, Lulu's. Random black tank, Styles. Amazing black stretchy pants, Vintage. Black leather boots w/ties, Aldo. Chain bracelet and black ring, Forever 21.

Black and White and Leaves All Over

2009-10-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

Cardigan, skinny jeans and serpent bracelet, Lulu's. Pleated jersey top and rings, Forever 21. Button-up booties, Seychelles. Pearl/chain/bow necklace, vintage.

Colonel Blondie: Chief Creek Explorer

2009-10-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

I once had this feminist professor who assigned the class to read the book Maneuvers: The International Politics of Militarizing Women's Lives, by Cynthia Enloe. To be honest, it was your basic feminist rant, but the part that was particularly interesting and really made me think was the part about fashion (go figure.) She basically said that it was militarization that caused people to be enamored with military inspired fashion. The list of examples was endless; anything khaki, cargo, camouflage, combat boots, pea coats, nautical/sailor or other military uniform inspired clothing, colors like 'army green' or 'navy blue.' Hello! Trench coats? Show me a major designer that hasn't put out a trench coat in the last ten years. There was a plethora of examples to support her theory (for more on that go here.)

It was years ago that I read that book but I still think about that idea when I see military inspired fashions on the runways almost every season. I know you guys saw that Balmain jacket from spring 09 that everyone was wearing... Well, this jacket and boots make me think about Enloe's theory on military inspired fashion. Although, I think I've actually gotten more pirate references regarding the boots...

Military blazer, H&M. Sheer black tee, Target. Hot pink bra, Victoria's Secret. Black stovepipe 'Julia' jeans, True Religion. Black leather riding boots, Nine West. Aviator Sunglasses, Club Monaco. Silver earrings and ring, gift from Mom.

Sunny Highway

2009-10-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

Jer and I were headed down to the Bay Area when I made him pull over on the side of the highway to take some photos of the sunset and these sweet vintage boots I just picked up. My mom said I looked a little like a hooker--yep, that's what she said--but that's probably just because I happen to be wearing high-heeled boots, and a mini-skirt, and I'm standing on the side of the highway. Okay, maybe she has a point...

Chiffon embroidered gray top, Lulu's. Black mini-skirt, Forever 21. Slouchy gray leather boots, vintage. Light pink peacock feather earrings (they kind of blend in with my skin so they're hard to see...), and silver bracelet, Forever 21. Smoky topaz ring, family heirloom.

Thanks Chicisimo!!!

2009-10-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

One of my outfits was featured on this SUPER cool website Chicisimo, which is an awesome forum for girls to exchange street-style ideas. By all means, check it out, snoop around, and VOTE! So thank you Chicisimo for the October 19th shout-out, I seriously love you guys! You can check out the original blog post here.

Fade Me, Fade Fade Me

2009-10-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

Andre Nickatina and bloggin' baby. I found this boyfriend tee at Target a couple of weeks ago but I didn't want to pay $8 for it so I put it back. Then yesterday when I saw that of these shirts only this color was on sale for $5.60, I knew it was a sign from the shop-gods that it was meant to be. And this wouldn't be a truly amazing bargain-shopping story if I didn't mention that this skin tight zipper-back skirt was $7.80, FULL PRICE. Only problem is it's constantly in a state of potential wardrobe-malfunction status. In fact, I am indeed confirming that I could see right up my skirt in that second pic. And the third. Scando... Boy shorts are in the works.

Green boyfriend tee, Mossimo. Black zipper-back mini-skirt, Forever 21. Black leather ankle boots, Aldo. Green glass earrings, vintage. Locket necklace and giraffe hinge bracelet, Lulu's. Multi-tiered gold necklace, Forever 21. Brass abstract ring (closeup featured in Romping in Romper post), Kenneth Cole.

Miami Vice

2009-10-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Who knew it was so windy in Miami? I was channeling a little Don Johnson with the scrunched up sleeves on this blazer, but instead of fighting crime I ended up fighting the wind to keep my bangs in check. That's the problem with bangs, they're always acting up on me... (So, I know the Miami Vice reference has been made thousand times when styling blazers with scrunched/rolled up sleeves, but lets go ahead and kick a dead horse because I know at one point you were thinking that too.) I've been diligently trying to mix some color into my daily wardrobe--I have literally put down 20 different gray or black items in stores in the last week--but all I could come up with this day was colorful beaded necklaces and a couple rings. Baby steps, right?

Black blazer, necklaces, and gold and white ring, Forever 21. Turquoise ring, Styles. Black scoop neck tank top, Lulu's. Gray skinny jeans, Citizens of Humanity. Black leather t-strap heels, Simply Vera, by Vera Wang. Ruby stud earrings, gift from Mom:).

Suburban Safari

2009-10-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

These slouchy trousers have been hanging on my closet door ever since I got them back from the tailor a week ago (I bought them a size too big because they were on sale for $11 at New York & Co and I just couldn't pass them up) but I couldn't figure out what to wear them with. This is what I came up with. Jer said I looked like I was going on a Safari and I don't think that is necessarily a bad thing. Safari inspiration was all over the Fall 09 runways (I especially liked how Ralph Lauren paired slouchy tapered trousers with tweed and velvet; Ralph knows what he's doing...) and this is my take on that motif. It's a work in progress. What do you guys think? Now what I really need to update the whole look is a pair of lace up boots...

Slouchy ankle trousers, New York & Co. Black tank top, Styles. Black vest w/ties, Forever 21. Black leather belt, horn necklace, and smoky topaz ring, all vintage courtesy of my mom:). Black leather t-strap, open-toe heels, Simply Vera by Vera Wang. Sunglasses, Target (my first pair of cheepies!!!)

Birds of a Feather

2009-10-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

Apparently accessories flock together too. Feathers are another theme I've got going on in the accessory department and I felt like going a little overboard this day. I have yet to find an outfit in which peacock feathers do not work. With the weather finally starting to cool down I get to break out the boots and scarves again; and let's face it, scarves with tank tops is a little ridiculous--fun, but ridiculous nonetheless. My mom bought me these motorcycle boots from Kenneth Cole Reaction about six years ago and like the stretch pants pictured here (yes, I'm wearing them AGAIN) I probably wear them at least three times a week during the winter.

Taupe short sleeved cardigan, Gap. Layered white t-shirts, Walmart. Gray and white feather scarf, H&M. Black stretch pants, vintage. Brown motorcycle boots, Kenneth Cole Reaction. Peacock earrings, Lulu's. Sterling silver feather cuff, gift from Mom:).

2009-10-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

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Fairest Find of Them All...

2009-10-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you about these amazing pants. They are cut like skinny jeans and look like denim, but made out of the softest cotton jersey, basically like tailored sweatpants. But sweatpants, they are not. Being black and skinny-cut, they can be paired with anything. They are by far the most comfortable pants I have ever owned and the least expensive. I found them at a thrift store for $2.75 and literally wore them for the next three days. Actually, the only reason I reluctantly took them off was that Jer was getting pretty grossed out. He said something to the effect of, "they will probably crawl over to the laundry basket themselves..." I now try to only wear them a couple times a week.

Olive green blouse, Forever 21. Amazing black stretch pants, vintage. Black ankle boots w/buckles, Steve Madden. Locket necklace, H&M. Gold chain earrings, Kenneth Cole. Abstract gold ring (also featured in September's Romping in Romper post), Kenneth Cole. Click on pictures for larger images.

White Pant Pantomime

2009-10-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

What better way to ring in the new fall season than with the eradication of the antiquated idea that white pants past Labor Day is some kind of fashion faux pas. Yes, people still think this is true... But I guess it's lucky for me that people around here still believe that because at the end of the summer season these J Brand jeans were on sale for $29 and I couldn't have been happier. The belt pictured here is the vintage belt I mentioned in the "Skirting the Issue" post. It looks like it has been hand made by braiding thin strands of metal and the ends have been sautered together for a very unfinished look. It fits in well with the industrial vibe I've got going on with my accessories recently. Very cool find.

I thought the serpent ring pictured here was particularly fitting as former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright has her pin collection, aptly named "Brooching It Diplomatically" displayed at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. Albright would be the first to tell you, accessories aren't just fun, they convey meaning. After Saddam Hussein's government called her a serpent, she wore a beautiful gold snake brooch on her lapel during her next meeting with the dictator. How awesome is that? The exhibition features 200 of her favorite pins she wore during her diplomacy work. And when the curators said she wouldn't get her pins back for two years while the exhibition traveled, she took that as the perfect excuse to buy more pins. A woman after my own heart.

Metallic top w/puff paint details, vintage. White destroyed denim pants, J Brand. Black open-toe booties, BCBG. Woven metal belt, vintage. Black fedora, Forever 21. Green serpent ring, found in potato salad section at Rayley's. Thanks Jer...

Skirting the Issue

2009-09-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

Lunch downtown with Jer. It was just a coincidence that the bakery we ate at happened to be across the street from one of my favorite local thrift stores. The sandwich from the bakery was pretty good; the vintage belt I scored across the street was even better. Click on pictures for larger image.

Chiffon bib top, Mossimo. Black zipper-back skirt, Pink Rose. Black open-toe ankle boots, BCBG. Mushroom purse, Michael Kors. Victorian locket, Lulu's. Sunglasses, Club Monaco.

Working On It: Part II

2009-09-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Invariably I come home from work with a pile of invaluable vintage finds and yesterday was no different. An adorable 80 year old woman donated this brass link belt yesterday and no sooner had it hit the sales floor I was already trying it on dreaming of the ways I could wear it with EVERYTHING. And it just so happened to work with what I was wearing that very day. Top picture is how I left for work, second picture with belt is how I came home from work.

Black silk top, vintage. Mushroom purse, Michael Kors. Gray 'Ava' straight leg jeans, Citizens of Humanity. Button-up booties, Seychelles. Brass link belt, vintage. Locket necklace, H & M. Earrings and ring, see Working On It. Click on photo for larger image.

Working On It

2009-09-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Finding something cool and comfortable to wear to work while abiding by the dress code (no open-toe shoes, shorts, skirts, tank tops, low cut shirts, anything with holes-even if that's the way you bought your Citizens, ahem...) has been difficult, to say the least. It's especially difficult if it is 100 degrees outside but you still have to wear pants and practical shoes. This practical--but still cute--combination of skinny jeans, boots with only a slight heal, and cotton tank top have practically become my work uniform. The vintage gray tank top's low cut back adds a little something sexy without being vulgar. Spice it up with an industrial looking multi-tiered chain necklace with chunky knots and I'm ready for my nine-to-five. Er, um, one-to-four.

Gray tank top, vintage. Black 'Julie' stovepipe jeans, True Religion. Black boots w/buckles, Steve Madden. Multi-tiered silver necklace, Forever 21. Peacock earrings, Lulu's. Giant turquoise and silver ring, New York and Company (and on sale for $2.99!) Click on photos for larger image.

Romping in Romper

2009-09-24T15:29:00.001-07:00

Thanks to 100 degree weather holding strong through the end of September, I've been able to wear this adorable little romper a bit longer than I had anticipated. It's the perfect thing to wear when you look in your closet and cannot find a top and bottom that are clean or matching or whatever; it is an entire outfit in one simple piece! Combine with a belt for some added interest and waist definition, strappy high heals, and off you go.

Paisley print romper, Forever 21. Brown woven belt w/ brass buckle, vintage (thanks Mom!) Brown strappy shoes, Dolce Vita. Abstract gold ring, Kenneth Cole. Gold painted linen clutch, New York & Company. Sunglasses, Club Monaco. Gold chain earrings, Kenneth Cole. Gold chain necklace, vintage. Click on picture for larger image.

Clutch Clutch

2009-09-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

Would you believe this silver and gold vintage clutch (with optional shoulder strap) only cost $ .54? Thrifting in a small town might just pay off. I had to drive a little further for the BCBG, black and gray, open-toe ankle booties. Jeans, Citizens of Humanity.

My Mission

2009-09-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

The purpose of FashionAntics is to create a forum in which I catalog my quest for fashion forward pieces, on a relatively low budget, all while trying not to scare the locals in what can only be described as a fashion backward rural town. Finding interesting pieces to add to my closet without driving 250 miles to the closest decent shopping area proved difficult at first, but with time I have found ways to improvise. Here begins my quest...