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?

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.

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.




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.




Fashion With A Little Birdie On Each Ear
August 16, 2009

I’ve been shopping and lately I’ve had an eye for earrings. I generally like to play with something elegant and different- something with its own character and story that dances between feminine sophistication and the playful imagination of childhood. I’ve found two such sets in the past couple days, here is the first set.


These earrings are from Yes Style, and last I checked still available for sale on their site. The other pair of earrings I’ll be sharing with you tomorrow sold out the moment I purchased them- I feel lucky to have gotten the last pair, they are darling!
Back to these earrings, though. Timothy calls them my “twitter” earrings, but to me they remind me of designer Alex Monroe’s style. I like the combination of loop and chain with the extra charm found in the stars. It gives a feel of daintiness and movement in a very simple piece. Beautifully designed.


This particular set is inexpensive, too- just under twenty dollars. If you do a search from Yes Style for “my little thing” and look through their earrings you will find them (and maybe some other fun unique accessories while you are there). I love these, they are so light and pretty.
Just wait till you see my other pair, though. It’s like right out of Alice In Wonderland, which is very ideal for me. Speak with you soon!
xx

Cigars, Fashion, & Style- But Of Course!
June 28, 2009
I love cigars, and when something unique like this limited edition box from La Flor Dominicana comes up- I am very excited! With art design by Ruben Toledo for the bands and cigar box, this duo is a magnificent piece worth looking into.
I was enjoying a cigar at my favorite cigar shop when the owner, Kenny, came up to me and showed me this beautiful box of cigars. It is the El Museo Limited Edition Box and can only be found from elite tobacconists and select department shops. Only 2000 boxes are to be produced with a retail price of $600, so once they’ve sold out that will be the end of this particular cigar’s production- and the box will remain a collectors piece forever.
Kenny has this lovely box available in his shop, and it is beautiful to look at and tempting to taste- but for the occasion it was created for, it is to be sold as a complete set with all profits donated to El Museo del Barrio.


La Flor Dominicana produce world class cigars of which I am very fond of. And to see a fine cigar paired up with a beautiful design for a great cause is grand. I must say, I would love to indulge in one- it is oh so tempting to discover the flavors of this unique cigar.
The designer, Ruben Toledo, was born in Havana, Cuba in 1961. He is a painter, sculptor and illustrator. His wife, a fashion designer, Isabel Toledo was also drawn to the project. For the two of them it was a project of personal meaning from their own history, and one they were very happy to be a part of.
So there you have it, loves- cigars, fashion, and style!

For more information about this project or the box design, visit Cigar Aficionado or El Museo.
Vintage Floral Hat For An Elegant Look
June 21, 2009

I love my collection of vintage hats, though it isn’t too often I get the chance to wear them. In the summer months though, I will occasionally bring out one of the more delicate hats I have and combine it with a french twist updo for an elegant and sleek look.
The hat here plays more like a hair accessory- it is feminine and delicate but very bold and stylish. I love the little details and colors of this piece, mostly consisting of a floral theme. But if you look carefully, the very back row piece is a beautiful line of bows. So darling!



The theme is almost as if from a fairy tale, but very wearable even in our modern times. I like to keep the rest of my outfit very simple with just a classic black dress, and maybe get playful with the accessories. Colors to accent are ideal and gold works very well with this hat in particular.
I think there is still room in our world for hats, kept classic with a modern twist.
Wearing this hat always makes me feel at my best, powerful, and elegant. I love that feeling! It isn’t an every day piece, but when worn it definitely makes the day a special one to remember.


Video Post: Adela Adorable Dress!
June 11, 2009
Wow, what a lovely evening this has been. I just returned home from the ballet- the performance was gorgeous and we were also fortunate enough to meet the dancers after the show. They were wonderful!
My new Adela dress arrived just in time for this event, too. And I love it!
I’ll be posting some detailed shots of the fabric soon-for now I have a video posted here so you can see the movement and larger views of the dress itself. So many possibilities with this one, I’ll be ordering more in the other colors available for sure.
You can find this dress available here if you would like one to play in as well, it’s a bargain too! Seriously, take a look at the Smocked Chiffon Convertible Skirt/Dress under the Adela brand line. Worth the visit.
**UPDATE PHOTOS**
As promised, here are some detailed shots of the fabric from the dress, I love this one so much!




And, after the beautiful ballet production of Swan Lake, we met the dancers who were just abosolutely wonderful! I’ll leave you with some quick photos from last night- I’ll be sharing more with you soon!
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!

OMG There’s A Kitty In My Bento Box!
May 19, 2009

…And it is adorable, too!
So this morning turned out to be an especially lovely morning since I had the pleasure of catching up with an old friend from middle school. It’s been ages since we last saw each other and we had such a grand time remembering old stories and filling each other in with the new ones.
This is one awesome lady-so awesome in fact that she brought me a present! And what an adorable one it is, too, look at this gorgeous bento box! I am so in love with it!


Yes, there is a kitty inside my bento box! And I love it- what an adorable way to cover up the fork, ha ha. Let’s look at it up close:


The first box has a little divider that slides so you can adjust it as need be. I think this is such a fabulous accessory and my new favorite toy.
Those who know me know my obsessions (most anything cute and elegant with kitties or alice in wonderland). This definitely makes my list.
Now I’ll be ready for nom nom treats in an adorable and fashionable manner- how fabulous is this?

A Love Of Wine And Its Fabulous Accessories
May 3, 2009

Do you love wine as much as I do? Then I am sure you will love these fabulous accessories. I’ve had quite a lovely collection coming along and felt the need to share it with you- some things make tasting a simpler and more enjoyable process. (Not to mention cleaning up and serving).

Let’s begin with the wine aerator- I love this thing! We’ve always had a decanter, but sometimes you have guests come over rather quickly and want to begin serving immediately (or perhaps you are alone at home and just want a glass without all of the fuss).
This is a gem we were given for Christmas- what an amazing gift, we use this constantly. You pour the wine through the aerator into the glass and it makes a funny little sound as it allows the appropriate amount of air to pass through, letting the wine breathe.
You can really taste what a wine has to offer with this little beauty, I highly recommend one! And they are so simple to use and require very little maintenance in cleaning or storage.

Next is the wine glass tree, pictured far above and right above with glasses. These make the cleaning process so much easier and takes up little space which is a nice bonus. Having a little tree that holds the glasses while they dry saves me a lot of time and work. I can clean the glasses and leave them to hang while I return to my guests- something I much prefer doing.
You can see one of our new pinot noir glasses hanging there, too- we like to have various styles of glasses for all of our varietals, it is fun and delightful for allowing the proper breathing room for the wine.


And finally there is our latest wine toy- the wine refrigerator! This one has two chambers so that we can separate our white wines from our reds. This one is just the right size (so many others can be huge, especially when two chambers are involved), and has the nice wooden shelves that slide out. There is a little blue light inside that adds a nice touch, and overall I like the look of this fridge.
More so, though is the pleasure of having our wines at a lovely temperature and ready to serve. Combined with the aerator, the wine is cool and is allowed to breathe just right. Lovely!
Shoes, Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top?
April 22, 2009

Yes, shoes- pretty please, with a cherry on top? I love these and bought them ages ago, but darn their cuteness I keep bringing them out over and over again. The cheery bright yellow color and girlie feel makes me love them even more. And to top it all off, even with the cherries, it also ties with a bow at the ankle- how adorable!
They are from BCBG, and the moment I saw them I had to have them. At the time they also came in a wedge form, but the cherries were not as pronounced as they are in this version… also they didn’t have any in my size which helped with the decision process. I still love these little lovelies.


They are such a perfect spring and summer time shoe- and guaranteed to make you feel adorable when wearing them. How can you not smile with a pair shoes as lovely as these?
They are a joy- the perfect match for my floral and frilly dresses. Though honestly, with shoes like these- a simple outfit gets a whole new attitude from the shoes alone. I also enjoy wearing them with just a simple black dress, and let the shoes be the focus.



Ha, I suppose that makes it two pairs of shoes I have with cherries on them.. what can I say, I love them! Besides, these are completely a different animal (oops, the theme of my next shoe post! you are going to love this! patience…!)










