Dreaming Of Silver Links
January 31, 2010
There is something dreamy about a bunch of silver strands and links elegantly combined, especially when it comes to necklaces. My normal accomplishment of such a look is by cleverly combining necklaces of various lentgths together, making sure the end result is elegant and bold but never a mess. Every now and then you find a piece that on it’s own accomplishes the look beautifully. This piece from Truffles Co. is just on case!
The combination of links and strands with a decorated piece bringing the links together, gently hanging down at an angle depending on how it is worn, works beautifully.
The miss match of link sizes with collected strands and a decorative piece with beads makes for a unique and fashionable look. Worn alone is fantastic, but it also gives you the opportunity to mix another piece into this already elaborate setup. The entire piece is designed quite long, in fact it is long enough to be worn as a belt (it is not unusual for me to find link styled belts and wear them as a necklace, lol).
The way I like to wear this style is by having half of the necklace show in the front, and have the other half decorate the back. This works great with dresses or tops that scoop in the front and the back. It can really dress up the look.
I like to wear it where half of each design is showing for a different kind of look. You could certainly wear it where each uniformed style shows from one view- one in the front and one in the back, keeping the decoration resting on the shoulder. But I like the dynamic of the mix.
Another possibility I am playing with is mixing it up as a choker or or very elaborate bracelet. With the length and change of styles there are many opportunities to explore.
I love playing around with shapes and textures, especially when they are in the same color scheme. Elaborate earrings are another fun area you see the trend in, most commonly with chandelier type earrings. I like earrings that are unique and miss matched; having the same theme so you can tell they belong together. When earrings resemble each other but have different lengths, I think that, too, is a fun style with a lot of opportunities. Take for instance this set that also plays into the links feel. This find is another item from Truffles Co. available on yesstyle.com.
Anyone can miss match a pair of earrings, but getting them to feel like a part of the same set is where it gets interesting. They either have to have been designed that way or play as a part of a theme. They have to look like they belong.
This piece from yesstyle.com does that well. You have all the same elements presented only slightly different, giving it a very unique and bold look. I love it. And it has the links and strands that I have been craving in my fashion.
What fashion cravings have you been having?
Volume In Control: A Must Fashion Accessory
August 27, 2009
I love volume, and there is definitely a certain balance to be maintained in order for it to work wonders. There are also many options to be explored, and all of them have to do with playing around with the silhouette.
Dresses are a particular favorite of mine, and those cozy, voluminous, short ones that have been in style are a dream. Nothing like looking fabulous while being comfortable, some of them feel like silk or even as cozy as a blanket. My latest favorite, from STAR.MIMI, feels like silk against the skin. It is soft, delicate, and moves so elegantly. On it’s own, it has a good amount of volume that is in good balance because of the length (pictured above).
But what about those options? Volume is put into control with this must fashion accessory: the cinched waist belt.
Oh, the cinched waist belt, how I heart the many styles you give me. It is simple, yet can drastically change the silhouette and feel of a style. It is also my little cheat into being able to wear those cute tops and dresses that may be otherwise sold out in my size. The belt allows me to make it work- so brilliant.
I also love belts that come with an outfit- and then taking that belt to mix and match with the rest of my wardrobe. Ribbons make a great belt alternative as well. I don’t like letting good packaging go to waste!
A collection of belts leaves lots of room for creativity. And vintage belts are a thing of beauty. A simple top or dress gets a whole new personality in an instant. (Some belts.. especially the chain-like ones… depending on their weight, can also make crazy-awesome necklaces or chokers. Just a thought!)
I love the mix in fabrics on this dress- from incredibly soft cloth to a gorgeous silky shine. Fabulous. Both the STAR.MIMI dress and With Mocha heels are from yesstyle.com, I’m hooked on their products. Beautiful one-of-a-kind fashion that always keeps me in my style. And they have something for every personality and feel.
For The Love Of Cheese
May 15, 2009
I ♥ cheese. I truly do- and during my last shopping adventure I was fortunate enough to taste some lovely cheeses to take home and indulge in. Wow, these are exceptional… two of which make a magnificent dessert!
From rich and creamy to crumbly and potent, these are some wonderful cheeses to love.
First up on our plate is the Bucherondin, a cheese made from Goat’s milk that is truly exceptional. The gentleman working in the cheese section stated that he would have this cheese as a dessert- simply put on a plate and drizzled with some orange honey.
Wow, I can only imagine how it would be with the honey- but honesty it is magnificent on its own! Don’t let the brie like appearance fool you- though it has a creamy coating (that can be eaten by the way) the cheese itself is quite chalky in texture, much like feta.
But it is rich enough to where it dances between chalky and creamy in the mouth- it is heavenly and a delicious treat. This is a mild flavored cheese, nothing too intense to frighten away or alarm you, I think the balance is just perfect here.
This gorgeous, creamy, delicious cheese is a cow’s milk cheese from France called Delice De Bourgogne from Licet. It is a Triple Cream Soft Ripened Cheese (oh, I do love the tripple creams… they can be very potent though mind you). Let’s look at it again, shall we?
I know, I know- it looks like butter:
And the consistency is rich and satisfying like butter- wow this cheese, along with the bucherondin, are new favorites of mine that I cannot get out of my mind. They are lovely.
This one in particular has a lovely character of sweetness and just the slightest tang or sourness to keep things interesting. It is a subtle bite- so subtle you might even miss it, nothing overpowering just a beautiful melting of flavors.
The flavor is more distinct than the Bucherondin, as is common with triple creams. If you ever run across this little gem, you surely will not be dissapointed.
Up next is the Campo De Montalban, a Spanish cheese with a very distinct taste and surprising texture. What distinguishes this cheese most from the others is the tripple blend- a marvelous blending of cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, and goat’s milk. On appearance, it resembles a Manchego and slices with a similar consistency and texture. But once you place it in your mouth, it becomes creamy with a distinct but wonderful flavor.
Something about cheeses from sheep and goats have this distinct taste- some call it gamey, and it can vary in potency. This one here was perfect- just subtle enough to give intrigue and satisfy and not overpower at all. The blend works perfectly to create an amazing balance and texture.
I highly recommend this cheese as much as I do the two above, if you are new to being adventerous with cheese this one may be a good cheese to start with. Truly a treat- indulge when you are able to.
I saved the potent cheese for last- the Roth Kase Gruyere Surchoix. This is unlike most gruyeres which are mild in taste and texture- this one is *extremely* sharp!
It is called “Surchoix” meaning top choice because after nine months of aging, the celler master hand selects the finest ones.
This hard cheese is very robust and highly concentrated with flavor- it is nutty, earthy, and just the right hints of sweetness to bring it all together. This one is strong- and for the stinky cheese lover.
Wow, what wonderful cheeses, I cannot get them out of my mind they are all so lovely. Any of these would make a fine choice and I highly recommend tasting them for yourself.
Much love and a great love of cheese- xx
1920’s Vintage Wedding Dress Find
May 5, 2009
Here it is, finally- my 1920’s wedding dress discovery! And did I mention the price tag on this little gem- I couldn’t even believe it when I heard it.
We were visiting our great friends in Seattle, having an amazing weekend, when us girls decided to go shopping out on Whidbey Island while the boys stayed home and went over some business. The last time we were here, we discovered a beautiful little antique shop where I found these gorgeous jewelry sets for an amazing price as well. Back to this visit though-
Of all the amazing items I found on this visit and have shared with you, this one is exceptional. We all admired this delicate wedding dress sitting gracefully on in the window, dreaming and not daring to consider the price. It looked so elegant with such a story to tell. The tag on it was resting at the top very high, and we could only just slightly see the number three written on it. If that was the start of the price or the item number, we couldn’t tell. As we were leaving we casually asked the attendant the price of the dress, to which he answered $39.99.
I didn’t know what to do at first, honestly. My mind was wowed.
So after a little walking and thinking I decided to at least give the dress a try on while my mind continued to absorb the concept.
This dress fit me in every way possible- you could even see how delicately it had been altered for a custom fit. The buttons are small metal ones (which I left unbuttoned for these photos as they are difficult to close by yourself, with assistance it is a simple task though) and some eye hooks.
Even the clasp at the end of the sleeves fit me perfectly. This was incredible, how unusual to find a dress of this style and condition, at this price, and fit like a custom made dress.
Incredible. The dress is beautiful as it is and definitely a look of the 1920’s- I am planning on giving it a modern twist that will remain classic and elegant. The sleeves will be going- they are a bit much for me. I think some antique lace continued just over the shoulder would make a very sleek and elegant look.
The front, too can be altered a bit- removing some of the rosettes and bringing the line a bit lower, this will be something I will have to play and experiment with. Over all I don’t want to do too much to this dress, but I think some simple well thought alterations and touches will blend some modern elegance into the feel (and make it my own).
The back is gorgeous, too- with a very long and graceful train.
With a little cleaning, pressing, and alterations this dress will have a complete turn around. I am very much looking forward to it! A slip will also need to be created with antique lace at the bottom so that heels can be worn with the dress. Little things!
Oh, it also came with a veil, the headband can be used but the material will have to be replaced as it is old and tattered. I may eliminate it completely, I haven’t quite decided yet- opinions? It may be a bit much!
So here you are- the original before photo shots of my $40 wedding dress find, I still don’t know what I think of this amazing find- or that it is real. But here it is!
Doing What You Love & A Little Red Swing
February 23, 2009
It was such a gorgeous Sunday, yesterday- the sun was perfect throughout the entire day and there was a delightful cool wind dancing along. A perfect day to do what you love.
And do what I love- I did; with some wonderful people and the assistance of a little red swing.
The things you love and want always seem to turn up at just the right times, and they are always such a welcoming delight. As was this case with this particularly pretty Sunday. While going about my everyday routines, it is always interesting how paths cross and people and opportunities rise up in the most enjoyable instances. Social networking places like twitter and facebook especially keep things in motion.
My path was fortunate enough to cross an amazing photographer known well by her adorable calling- “three heart photo.” The moment we met and I looked at her work I was excited, it just came about so perfectly.
And so yesterday we played around with a test shoot- I love shoots, the energy, the creativity, the feel- it is something I love being a part of. Tracy of Three Heart Photo is an incredible talent and a delight to shoot with. You can feel her passion in the photos she produces, and I am honored to be a part of them.
The little red swing at the Menil made for great location and lovely Sunday afternoon. And the cool thing was that she had Marc of Click.Wind.Repeat assist her for the day, another very talented photographer I was grateful to meet. He had just gotten this too cool of a camera which he brought along for the shoot, and sneaked in a couple shots to play with. Love it!
Do what you love, and more will come up to you- even when you least expect it. That is the beauty of being fabulous each and every day.
An Award To The Fabulous!
February 21, 2009
Something I greatly believe in is making each day an occasion and making all occasions fabulous ones. When an opportunity of the fabulous is presented to me, I am delighted to indulge and pass the luxury to those who mean the world to me.
I am incredibly honored to be presented with the award, “Your Blog is Fabulous” from an incredibly fabulous lady herself, Roxy of For The Love Of Beauty - a fascinating blog I have been following now for some time as well. She is such a delight to read and I am very grateful to have her as one of my fabulous followers!
What a marvelous award and inspiration to celebrate!
It is with great honor and appreciation that I am able to present this award to these notably fabulous blogs that I adore and follow. And though two are technically not fashion only blogs, they still hold the high ranking of being fabulous. It is difficult to select so few, however these gems stand high on my list.
Once presented with this award, I encourage you to participate in the rules of this prestigious award:
1. Place this lovely logo as a badge of honor on your blog or within a post.
2. Nominate ten blogs which you find to be fabulous.
3. Be sure to link your nominees within your post
4. Let them know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. share the love and link this post and to the person from whom you received the award.
This is fabulous and fun, and it is always a pleasure to give to those who have given you so much.
Twist It Up For A Classic Do
February 20, 2009
After I’ve been feeling ill I find it best to return in full fabulous swing with a pretty little updo. Something about putting my hair up and feeling pretty makes things much more fun, which is just the mood I want when getting things back in order.
Clean, simple, and classic- a french twist finished off with just a few curls and strands high up top; love the look and how it feels. Definitely very refreshing from what it has been like being in bed all week!
A lot of times I’ll keep the look completely smooth and flawless by wrapping the top and pinning it under- so there is this fabulous little bump on top that blends in with
the french twist. But I wanted some playfulness out of the look this time, and left the ends out to fall where they may. Gives it a little bit more character and design.
It is a fun and simple one to do but I still love the way it feels. Great way to get back in action!
Looking Like A Mouse Never Felt So Cute
February 3, 2009
I began cleaning the house in the early afternoon, yesterday. And when you have as much hair as I do, sometimes even a pony tail does no’t get it out of the way. It has a tendency to swing around as I am cleaning and running around.
Since I was only planning on cleaning the house, an elaborate updo was not necessary (it would only be asking for pins to be flying across the room!). And no one wants that, especially me as I would only have to clean them up anyway.
I kept it simple, and without too much thought just twisted my hair up into two little balls on top of my head. Simple enough, and I must say it felt rather cute. Why not?
Cleaning is so much easier when you are feeling cute, after all. You must always feel your best in whatever it is your doing, even if it is something as simple as dusting or mopping. It is the pretty and fabulous way of life! And it will keep you smiling and feeling great.
I kept inside the apartment most of the day, but went downstairs to drop something off- it was a quick little errand and so I didn’t think too much of it, just ran down as I was. As I reached the door leading outside the building I had to pass by our concierge, who it so happened was speaking with some guests.
They both stopped me quickly and were boasting how much they loved my hair- the whole look! They wouldn’t let me leave until they could fully inspect it and admire it. And at first I had to think and laugh, to me this was my scrubs, my cleaning look- but they made me realize again how it can work for anything.
Too funny! But I do love it- so here it is, a simple little quick updo that can be fabulous for greater occasions.
Pretty In A Bow
January 26, 2009
Something I haven’t done in ages- but used to always do and love, is wearing a ribbon around my waist and tying it into a bow for the absolutely adorable belt result.
I think it began as a child- you know how it was, turning the gift wrapping into accessories.. I loved the silky long ribbons people used to wrap their presents and would keep them to wear them as a belt (still do, lol). They come in such beautiful vibrant colors, too. It is just such a waste to throw them away.
This one is a more down to earth shade, very neutral. But when combined with a matching skirt of the same color- they come together in a delicate and feminine cute fashion. It is a look I love and feel comfortable in, its hard not to smile when you have a bow tied around your waist after all.
If you do not wish to use it as a belt- but still want to incorporate the ribbons into your fashion- they make a great accessory when tied into a bow on your purse, too! Very adorable and such a nice unique touch.
Here’s to more great fashionable ideas and inspirations 
much love.
The Latest Belgian Beauty
January 16, 2009
What could be more wonderful than a luxurious abbey ale? I love my Belgian beers, and with good reason seeing as they are the best, in my opinion of course. Last night I finally was able to taste one in particular I have had an eye on for quite a while. And this one is making my favorite’s list without question.
It is the bottle that caught my attention this time- I love it. So cool to the touch with that unique texture, makes me feel at home. When I was a child, I remember actually having a water bottle of this same material. Keeps the contents extra cool and at just the right temperature. So now I have moved from a water bottle to beer, it is good to have both most likely. It does make things quite fun.
St. Sebastiaan Dark is a dark top-fermented abbey ale brewed according to the purity law of 1516. Old and true like so many of its Belgian brothers. They all have this velvety malty sort of texture that is filled with a luscious flavor- each beer having its own distinct taste.
This one, with a smell of spice and caramel has a slightly bitter sweet bite to it that is marvelous. Honestly, when I first tasted it, Gingerbread came instantly to mind. And I do love gingerbread. It works wonderfully in this form- so delicious! I cannot wait to purchase another.
Seriously, like dark gingerbread- so heavenly.
They have some other styles and tastes I will have to try from them; dark is usually my favorite so I grabbed it first naturally. I think the Grand Cru will be next on my list.
A gorgeous bottle with the contents to match- so fabulous. I would have been disappointed if it wasn’t anything other than great. My Belgian beers never let me down though, so all is well and better than ever.
This is a must try- loves! And what perfect timing, a taste right before my birthday. May have to try the other tomorrow in celebration, who knows.
Oh How Kitties Grow Up So Quickly
January 13, 2009
So I am relaxing on the sofa and one of my kitties has to come up and join me. He is very much a snuggler, and something of a leaner. I don’t know where he picked that up from.. he just likes to lean with all of his weight against you. I don’t know if it is entirely comfortable or not, but he certainly likes to do it. Strange little kitty.
Well, not so little any more as you can see! This is Ulric; he is named Ulric because of all the kittens in the litter he was the one that would constantly cry “wolf”, or meow wolf in this case. He can be a bit of a puppy at times, loves to play/devour his toys and enjoys car rides-even loves the flavored bone toys for puppies. I know, strange kitty.
Here he is as a kitten, you could totally eat him up, I know- he is sooo cute. He constantly wants to include himself as I am typing my posts, so I thought why not include him in a post of his very own. So I will show my kitty a little love.
I kept Ulric and his sister, who I have named Aveline, from this litter of kittens who were sadly left behind during a neighbor’s move. All the other kittens were given to wonderful homes (including that of a Veterinarian, I know they are in great hands).
Aveline is something of a fashion kitty.. she loves to sleep in a hat box and inspect any purse or shoe she sets her eyes on. She’s something of a flirt, too.. I think I’ll introduce her in her own little post sometime in the near future. She definitely loves her accessories.
Lifestyle Luxury From An At Home Income & Someone Dear To Me
January 9, 2009
How do I live such a glamorous lifestyle?
Well, in answer to the old… “So what do you *do* anyway” question. What I do has more to do with why we do anything- to achieve the luxury of a certain lifestyle.
“A luxurious lifestyle” and “the comforts of home,” we may say the phrase casually but it does hold a meaning to us all. We all yearn for it and after all is said in done there is nothing as luxurious as having all the time you wish to spend in your very own little place. It is all about having your own quality time.
I don’t think I have formally introduced him so here he is, someone very dear to me and someone who has allowed me to live this lifestyle that I cherish.
He is my fiance, Timothy Black. Together through his experiences and knowledge we are able to live the lifestyle that we do. Oh, and by the way, neither of us work. And in case you are wondering, there was no inheritance or trust fund or anything of that sort involved! We don’t have any bosses, or schedules, or meetings.. we pretty much do whatever we want to each day, it’s really great.
Sometimes I think I take it for granted and don’t share enough about it to you, and I want to. Especially as it is something that is open to anyone who wants our lifestyle, too.
It doesn’t matter how much you earn if you work until you are so tired you have no time to yourself. There are more important things in life and nothing should keep that away from you.
Enjoying a great dinner with friends, Timothy is on the right and I am in the braids.
So we travel, and shop (he has a great eye for style, I seem to have rubbed off on him nicely), and eat, and drink wine, and spend time with family and make great new friends along the way. He is great at what he has created for the brilliant thing is that it is all from home. He shows those who want to discover an income at home how to do it and do it well, too. He is a great coach- he taught me and I couldn’t believe how easy it was, or how fun it could be especially when you are in control.
It brings me great new shoes, dresses, jewelry, spontaneous trips, and most importantly the time to do what I want when I want with the people I want.
It really rocks, lol.
For his birthday I took him skydiving in Lake Wales- what a great time. We were delayed a day though since there was a tornado warning or watch in effect- not something you want when you are jumping out of a plane! The next day was beautiful and I would do it again in an instant.
When I first met Timothy (over six years ago) and found out a bit about him, I also found out that he shouldn’t be alive by the opinions of many doctors. Getting into a relationship, that isn’t something you want to hear, let alone throwing him out of an airplane like this.
We’ve come a long way, and I wanted to share our story with you. I think it is important.
You can find out more about why he “shouldn’t be alive” and then visit http://www.concealedcash.com
And it is an amazing story, just take a look and see for yourself. You can also see how it is that we make a living at home and have the lifestyle that we do.
This is something I want available to you since it can improve your life no matter where you are.
Much Love and Best Regards,
Bombshell Kitten
