I ♥ Lace: A Fashion Obsession, Part II
December 27, 2009
The beauty of lace is that there are so many ways to wear it: from accessories like hair decorations, gloves, purses and scarves to dresses and tights making an outfit truly stand out.
In my last lace obsessed post I was playing with the idea of lace tights to add more texture and style to your fashion. With the winter trend of thigh high boots, patten tights fit just right in creating a bold and sexy style.
Black is classic and elegant and works lovely with winter’s charm. Later on in the spring nude and white lace may add a soft but playful factor for us to look forward to. But back to the season at hand and how we can have fun with our style.
I have been experimenting with lace quite a lot lately- and not just how it can redesign shoes. Take for instance using lace as a layer and foundation for your existing wardrobe. A long sleeve laced top goes a long way when worn under the right dress or tank top. It is the perfect selection for updating your entire wardrobe, giving old pieces a new feel in an instant. If you want to take lace even further then consider a piece such as this lucky find: A Lace Trim Jumpsuit from TIAN MU.
What I like about this selection is that not only is it one-of-a-kind, it is also all once piece. Well, one piece save for the black tube top underneath. If you have a unique tank top you can play with the lines of the design even more. But this once piece with the casual shorts and lace collar, front, and sleeves creates a simple look that is not to be ignored.
Because it is a single piece it leaves plenty of room for accessories- from vests to belts to playful jewelry pieces. I like the outfit on its own honestly, but I also look forward to reinventing the look over and over again. I’ve been thinking of playing with belts, skinny to “wow” factor big, and different undergarments first. Maybe even a colorful long sleeve top underneath to add a new flair. There’s plenty of ideas available and this very unique outfit will have a different feel each time I wear it because of all these options.
TIAN MU has lots of other great styles which have caught my eye, many of them playing with lace in different ways, too. From baby doll dresses to leggings, there’s lots of great ideas and inspirations to be found.
Click Here to view more from Tian Mu and find some fashion inspirations (or obsessions!) of your own.
Fit-To-Kill Loving A White Rabbit Accessory
August 17, 2009
With a name like “fit-to-kill” how can you not instantly fall in love? The theme of this design is very Alice in Wonderland which strikes a lot of points from me- I’ll admit I’m mad about such styles.
This post may be a little bit mean since it turns out I was the lucky one to order the very last set of these (yes, it’s too late now) but I still love them enough to share the style idea with you. Something about miss matched earrings appeals to me. A theme keeps them together, almost like a story, but the fact that they are different is beautiful.
With this set- one side is a pretty white rabbit while the other holds dainty flowers.
In case you couldn’t tell from my hat and updo, I’m feeling especially girlie this afternoon. I have my days where I go all out for no other reason than just going all out. I love it.
The earrings are very much like from a fairy tale, also bonus points. There was another pair that I think may be available still that I had my eye on- it is a four piece set so you can mix and match to your pleasing. The signature piece (what would be like the bunny in this set) is a deer, and it comes with a pearl, mushroom, or butterfly to pair with on the other side. I’m still considering it- here’s their sneak peak from the site:
They even have an actual fairy tale set directly out of Cinderella- with choices of a crown, crystal, glass shoe, and carriage to choose from. Very adorable.
It is all very unique and makes a feminine, but darling statement. Pretty fabulous! You can look for more items from Fit-To-Kill by searching on Yes Style.
A Love Of Cocktails And Another Night At Anvil
May 31, 2009
Mmmm, I do love my cocktails- and the other night we had a real treat with some classic and beautiful cocktails at Anvil. These are beauties I look forward to having again soon.
With a place like this, I like to let the bartender select my drinks for me. This is their skill and I want them to have fun with it- I am the same way with my chef’s and their food. I am here to enjoy their talent with good tastes. Sebastian, our bartender we seek out by request, made some fantastic selections for me!
For instance, the Jack Rose- a classic cocktail of the 1920’s and 1930’s. What a lovely cocktail! Made with Applejack, Grenadine and Lemon juice, this may be a favorite of mine. It is so lovely with the right balance of flavor and texture. Enjoying it out of a vintage glass only adds more of the charm.
Another lovely drink from that same era would be The Last Word- love the name and the cocktail (pictured below). What a delicious beverage with a nice little hint of spice in the finish. I love the tartness of citrus, especially when it has the right balance, and a little spice can blend beautifully.
The Last Word consists of Gin, Lime Juice, Green Chartreuse, and Maraschino Liqueur- nom! Very refreshing, crisp, and delicious. A lovely way to begin an evening- the flavors just blend and melt so beautifully in your mouth.
This is one I could see myself having quite reguarly, it is perfect for any mood or event. I keep thinking about it, delicious!
Here we have the Smitten cocktail, which I had mentioned previously but had forgotten to take a photo of. I was prepared this time and captured this refreshing drink. I think this one would be so perfect by the pool on a warm day- the mint in this cocktail is delightful without being overpowering at all.
This cocktail consists of Gin, Campari, Lemon, and Mint. And it tastes as pretty as it looks.
And the final act was a beautiful one that tastes just as heavenly and dreamy as it looks- The Vanishing Act! Wow, this one is so lovely and rich in texture- yet light and welcoming, what a fantastic way to finish the evening.
Now, unfortunately with this one- I was not by it when it was made and don’t know of what it all consists of. The egg whites and bitters is all I can tell you- but I do plan on having this gem again next time I visit and returning home with the ingredients. So lovely!
All this writing has me ready for a cocktail, nom- speak with you soon, loves!
Absolutely Charming, Absolutely Decadent
May 13, 2009
I love a charm with a secret, and when the glamorous touches of vintage are involved a beautiful look is created. The latest from this charming collection are ones to love:
I adore LOVEMADDS, and when I was looking through her latest collections my eyes were instantly drawn to the Samantha necklace- a pendant case complete with a vintage manicure set. This is a necklace with a secret! I love how vibrant the red is on the handles of the set- so bold and bright yet hidden in the delicate golden case dangling on a gold strand. Beautiful!
It is feminine, delicate on the outside and powerfully armed on the inside- very real and glamorous in presentation. This is something I would love to have dangling around my neck.
Ah, the charm of charms… aren’t they lovely?
They inspire us with past memories and create a place for new ones to come.
I’ve been loving the decadence of gold jewelry this year, and with bold pieces like these they just scream rich and luxury. The details are right and ready to be worn.
I can see single piece bold charms making a great appearance especially towards the later part of the year- with a simple cocktail dress, a large and magnificent golden charm delicately resting from the neck makes a beautiful and fashionable statement.
These golden charms also make for a lovely touch to a casual day outfit- adding the extra elegance and femininity to make a casual outfit all the more inspiring.
Don’t you just love these new pieces? There are even more gorgeous items in her collection you will have to see for yourself.
Child’s Play In Mirrored Elegance
May 6, 2009
When was the last time you played with a rocking horse of your very own? Maybe its been too long… fortunately now there is an elegant and fashionable alternative!
From YesStyle, one of the designer brands offered is Sweet & Co♥. With adorable and creative designs, some child-like and colorful, others subtle and elegant- the opportunities are playful and beautiful.
My latest purchase is this absolutely adorable rocking horse ring! It is mirrored and just the right size to make it noticeable but not overbearing. It has a delicate and feminine look that speaks memories of childhood now all grown up.
I like the idea of wearing this playful and youthful ring with a cocktail dress when going out with the girls- how much will this dazzle in the dim lights looking gorgeous against my cocktail or wine.
I love that subtle shine that bursts with the right light- and this ring will do it gracefully.
And the packaging is perfect, also- it comes in an pretty pink little pouch enclosed within an adorable pink envelope- ready to be received as a gift. I think my kitty, Aveline, thought so too- right when I opened the package she went for the pink envelope first!
Adorable, isn’t it? And as you can see there were other items I had purchased as well- but shhh, those are to be revealed soon! Enjoy your sneak peak, for now I’ll be playing with this marvelous new ring!
Now This Is Absolutely Wild, Roar!
April 23, 2009
Who else loves matching their nail polish to their shoes or favorite accessory? It makes a bold and beautiful statement, and an otherwise simple outfit incredibly fabulous. But take a walk on the wild side with me for a moment- this is a look that is certainly wild!
Now, I’ve posted on my nails that purr before, and even with different variations- but this takes the look on a whole new spin. I had completely forgotten about these adorable heeled booties until I started going through some of my old shoes.
My nails were already painted with the print- I am going to be doing a bit of traveling for the next few days, and the beautiful thing about this look is that respond well to travel, meaning that when they chip it is very subtle and almost looks like a rustic version of the look. Very low maintenance for a fabulous look.
Anyway, with my nails painted the way they are, the instant I saw these booties I knew it was time to bring them out!
I am packing some wintery clothing items- and I think these boots and my nails are just the wow factor I am looking for. Even with an all black outfit (tights and all) these two items will really stand out together.
The shoes I think are Bertini if I am remembering correctly- the name inside has worn out but the shoes themselves are still pristine. I found them for under twenty dollars at one of my shops in Miami, I love finds like that.
Here’s to matching on the wild side- rawr!
A Chic And Coral Hidden Treasure
April 19, 2009
Hidden treasure never looked so fabulous- and for something as common as this, I love when a designer has fun and adds a bit of luxury into the most simple items we use. Suddenly getting ready in the morning has a much more glamorous feel, and I know I am excited to be using these lovelies.
And possibly the best part, beyond their gorgeous appearance and feel, is the price and location of these gems… Target! They are only 19.99, and are a limited edition so be sure to pick them up while you can. This is an incredible deal for brushes of any kind, let alone fabulously designed ones such as these. It is definitely a steal I had to act quickly on myself, and wanted you to be aware of them as well.
The collection comes from Sonia Kashuk and is called the “hidden treasure” limited edition brush set, the name is perfect. It includes six beautiful brushes and a travel case to match. All the brushes are very soft against the face and very nice, especially for the price. Love it!
Playing with my make up in the morning has a whole new look and feel; fabulous brushes? Can’t go wrong there, a beautiful and stylish move from Sonia Kashuk for Target.
Floral Prints: Attack From Spring Part II
April 14, 2009
When I was shopping at forever twenty one last week and found the incredibly bright and bold spring floral dress- it wasn’t the only one I found. I couldn’t decide which one I liked better, so I do what I always do in these situations, I bought both!
I do this often with shoes, too- especially when I find a style I *love* and feels perfect on, I’ll get all the colors available in my liking. When you love something, you have got to go for it, right?
So back to the dress, this one though very floral and colorful indeed, is much softer with a more gentle feminine feel. The splashes of purple on white are beautiful, and inspired me to even paint my nails purple to match (and wear my lavender heels, such a gentle and beautiful color).
The little rosettes at the neckline are adorable and the perfect dainty touch for the dress. It is a straight and flowy drop from there, and the print does everything else.
Simple, chic, and perfect for spring. I am loving these frilly feminine prints.
Alexander McQueen and Target ♥ Here At Last!
April 4, 2009
I’ve always loved you, Target… you’ve been so good to me and now, wow- what can I say? I’m so delighted. Alexander McQueen, a dear favorite and now a beautiful find at Target.
Target + McQ = ♥
Honestly, when I first saw the sneak peaks online at the collection I was underwhelmed. Mostly on the grungy side of things- but it turns out there was so much more to it.
Even online if you visit the Target shop, the options were limiting and did not particularly excite me. And so when I found out which Targets were participating in my area I was not rushed to get there. Some time has passed since the launch and I thought for sure it would be too late, I mean I didn’t even think there would be anything left passed day one.
But to my surprise- not only were there plenty of items available, but all gorgeous- all not posted online, and all in my size. Love it.
When I first saw this dress in particular, it was the only one (also in my size I might add, love it) and had two long ribbons hanging down from it. I have a thing for string/ribbons and the like- if it ties up in some sort of fashion (regardless if I know how it is supposed to be tied, I adore a challenge that can be reinvented) I then must have it. It’s a rule of mine nearly.
So this one became an instant must for me. The material is a dream, feels so heavenly against the skin and has a lovely feminine shape to it. The sleeves are a sublte but sharp design which I greatly admire as well. I love this dress!
Hooray for Alexander McQueen being available for a private Target collection; much love! xx
Bow Tie, Black And White Adorable Shoes
April 3, 2009
Shoes? But of course my loves, you never can have too many shoes. And when I came across these pretty little black and white darlings, I couldn’t help myself!
What’s even more surprising is where I found them and for how much.. generally I prefer to spend a good amount on a shoe, I think it is worth it and you can feel it in the quality. But these are something different- something fun and random. Oh, and only twenty five dollars, ha. Can you believe it?
They are quite comfortable for the price, and who am I to deny a shoe of this much cuteness? I went to forever twenty one today, I will make a visit about once a year it seems and find a few cozy and cute outfits to mix and match with my wardrobe. Found a few beautiful dresses as well, but those will follow in posts to come (as well as a beautiful find from Target, hint- Alexander McQueen!). But that’s later.
Back to the shoes- yes they are fabulous and a lucky find. They were the only ones I saw in the shop like it, and fortunately for me exactly my size as well. Don’t you just love when things like that happen, meant to be.
I’ll enjoy playing with these new shoes- the color is perfect for most any outfit and adds a bold new tone to a look. Definitely fun.
Wild Prints For Fashion Fun
March 22, 2009
I love a beautiful print- usually filled with color, bold, and fun. This skirt is something different but still quite fun and bold. Not the usual bright colors you see in a print, but the normally toned down shade of brown against the white with this wild pattern is remarkably bold and I love it.
With a print like this I want it to stand out on its own- too much of anything else, color, design or whatever have you would just get lost and compete.
One thing I would do is wear some funky or playful earrings- maybe a bangle on my wrist as well; it can handle the skirt’s design without fighting it.
This particular skirt I found at forever 21; I must say they produce some cute items from time to time (though their options are massive and overwhelming as well- at least for me).
I like this pattern and color scheme- it is something I wouldn’t mind having more of. I think brown is a nice color and I haven’t really seen it so bold as it is here. Who knew it had such a playful attitude- just needed a fun pattern to show it.
Oh, and of course the shoes… Normally I’d wear a simple shoe (black pump or even my brown ballet slipper heels pictured below). But instead I decided to wear my new Vincent Camuto shoes- these are some hot shoes. I did an entry a little while back on them, and here they are again, such beauties. Brown and white like the skirt (though shades lighter I think it still works just fine).
And here is the other shoe I would wear with this skirt (which matches in color exactly, and yet still a little playful in design). Its my BCBG ballet slipper heels- I bought them years ago but they still stay in style. One of those classic shapes and colors that will always be in. Its such a pretty shoe.
Has Glamor Gone Mad?
March 20, 2009
Because we are all a little mad…. and love to indulge in our glamorous fantasies. And designer Tom Binns supplies those fantasies with reality from his incredible couture collections. Born in Ireland, Binns completed the education necessary to acquire the skills of a proper jewelry designer and moved on to collaborate with Vivian Westwood and Malcolm MacLaren for his “punk couture” collection.
Creating designs with a “modern classic” feel, he continues to inspire glamor with a whole new twist. Classic with a modern twist is something I have always described my own style as, and seeing his designs makes me feel as though it is a part of my world. I love simplicity as it has its place, but a part of me is head over heels for excessive glamor such as these collections. From Dumont (pictured above and below), Rokoco, to Couture and more- each collection is fabulous and has its own unique character and feel to it.
Perhaps it is my fondness of Alice In Wonderland that continues to inspire me- I love charms and child-like memories represented in a rich and adult form, so when I look for charm bracelets, I want lots and lots of charms with a strong feel to each one. Colors, crystals, and clever twists of strands are things I am always looking for (which, is perhaps also why I adore LOVEMADDS so much, her designs are true and powerful, one of a kind and absolutely glamorous).
And from loaded up bracelets, I have also searched for ridiculously glamorous rings and necklaces. Needless to say, Tom Binns does not disappoint. Maybe glamor needed a little madness to inspire us all.
I know I am in love- and on the hunt! I am determined to capture these beauties for myself. They are too beautiful to be left alone.
(you know my fondness of hearts, elegance, and glamor… the “chain of events” necklace I am incredibly in love with!) To view more about Tom Binns and his incredible collections, visit his site for more.
