Adelaide Stayed

Em Saves

2011-09-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hey, there! Remember me? I'm sorry I abandoned all of you for a few months. It suddenly dawned on me that the reason I was having so much trouble posting regularly on this blog was because fashion blogging is no longer my main passion. After two long years, Adelaide Stayed and I are parting ways.

But I'm not ready to say goodbye to blogging just yet. A few weeks ago I started a new blog about personal finance, called Em Saves, and I would be absolutely overjoyed if you took the time to visit. We can even still be blog friends if you'd like :)

Family Reunion

2011-08-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

I spent this past weekend in Hull at my cousins' beach house with my entire extended family. I found a few opportunities to practice taking pictures and wanted to share with you all!

My cousins' porch

My handsome dad

Yours truly

My and my parents' sand-covered feet after a walk on the beach

My cousin Amy and Hope, the newest addition to the family

Chowdah

And my very veggie dinner

How was your weekend?

Will Summer bring the feeling back to our toes?

2011-08-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

Since today marks the second day in a row my boss has worn jeans to the office, I feel like there's no point in continuing to stretch my distinctly Casual wardrobe into five separate Business Casual outfits a week. Not that you guy have seen any of my business casual looks (oopsie). I'll try to post more outfits, but it's pretty hard to find friends who have enough free time to take my picture/it's pretty hard to take selfies when you don't have a tripod. Just sayin'. Also just sayin' my birthday is next Monday, so...

Francesca's dress; AA leggings; LOFT scarf and sandals: H&M bag; belt via Buffalo Exchange; Anthro cardigan

Photos by Ursula

SOWA Market

2011-08-01T18:41:00.000-07:00

Since I am a fashion blogger, commonly accepted stereotypes demand I visit a flea/antique/farmers market at least twice a season, if not more. The South End's SOWA (SOuth of WAshington street) Market allowed me to reach my quota for the Summer this past Sunday. After going, I feel that SOWA is kind of like Eastern Market's slightly less cool younger sibling (or maybe I'm just biased because I'm from DC), but I still enjoyed spending the day there.

My favorite part was the Roxy's grilled cheese sandwich I had for lunch. But does it compare to brunch at Montmartre?

Tell me about your weekend!

Sit by a river

2011-07-30T15:41:00.000-07:00

Super low-maintenance today. Simple dress, air-dried hair, a few accessories and minimal makeup. My friend Camille is in town this weekend, so we spent the day taking advantage of the beautiful weather with our other friend Teo. I think my favorite part of the day was watching sailboats on the Charles with our feet in the water.

H&M dress via Goodwill; Charlotte Russe ring; vintage necklace; Etam earrings; H&M sunglasses; LOFT sandals

And yes, this is my natural hair texture :) I usually straighten it because it's much easier to manage that way, but I'm enjoying my curls this week! What does your hair look like when you put away the hot tools (or, as my friend Cailee's dad calls them, the Torture Devices)?

Photos by Camille and Teo

Sanctuary

2011-07-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

The other morning I had one of those elusive Perfect Moments that happen so rarely you have to take note of them when they find you. I was sitting on the daybed in my living room reading a book and drinking iced coffee when it started to thunderstorm outside. I stopped reading for a minute and listened to the sound of the rain, just appreciating the present and being totally at peace with nature and with my surroundings.

And then I immediately updated my Facebook status about it.

Chi-what now?

2011-07-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

If you live in the greater Boston area, you've probably heard about Dale Chihuly's ridiculous blown glass exhibit on display at the MFA. I finally went the other day, and I was so totally floored by what I saw I had to share it with you guys.

The first room consisted of a smallish rowboat, filled with colorful glass sculptures. The floor was mirrored, so we could see the sculptures' reflections underneath.

The next room was a long strip of sculptured that looked like something I can only describe as looking like a Demented Underwater Rainforest.

The third room was empty, but the ceiling was covered in wavy circles that looked kind of like oyster shells.

The next room had several gargantuan sculptures hanging from the cieling, in all different colors. My favorite was the light blue.

In the final room we saw this. "Purple sticks stuck into logs" sounds totally boring compared to the other pieces, but look how cool!

I loved this exhibit and would recommend it to anyone who likes art and/or being aesthetically pleased :)

I Heart Boston

2011-07-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

The Christian Science Plaza is my absolute favorite place in Boston. I honestly think it's one of the most beautiful places I've ever been in my life. A couple years ago when I lived on Mass Ave and Beacon I used to come here every day, even in the Arctic winter temperatures, to sit and clear my head. I used to imagine how sad I would be when I graduated and left Boston, but reassured myself that I still had plenty of time before that happened. Now, 2 1/2 years later, I'm done with BU but can't seem to make myself leave this city.

Urban dress; LOFT sandals; Etam earrings

What do you think ties us down to the places we choose to live?

I've Joined the Real World

2011-07-14T16:07:00.000-07:00

Poor photo quality because I could NOT find good lighting ANYWHERE in Allston. Lack of posting as of late because I just started working full-time and hot damn is it hard to find time for daily glamour shoots when you spend most of your day either in an office or in a bus on your way to or from an office. Thoughts on my attempt at biz caj?

Urban Outfitters top; Express skirt; Topshop purse; LOFT sandals; Brighton watch; Charlotte Russe ring

How have you guys been? I have so much blog reading to catch up on!

Photos by Teo

Independence day: a story in pictures

2011-07-05T21:23:00.000-07:00

This year I spent my July 4th in

And I saw

How was your weekend?

Thousands have lived without love, not one without water

2011-06-30T19:48:00.003-07:00

Greetings from New Hampshire! I'm up at my Uncle's lake house with my family until Sunday. I didn't pack too much, since I expect to be either in a bathing suit or sweatpants for most of the weekend (did I just break some fashion blogger code by admitting that?), but I did bring a nice-ish outfit in case we went out to dinner one night. That night ended up being tonight:

H&M dress via Goodwill; F21 vest (also worn here, here and here); LOFT scarf and shoes; Topshop purse

Now, let me go put on my sweatpants and you can tell me all about your holiday weekend plans!

Fashionable Friends: decorating lessons my friend Sylvia unintentionally taught me

2011-06-29T19:07:00.000-07:00

I had just about forgotten how adorable Somerville is when my friend Sylvia, who just graduated from Tufts, invited me to hang out in Davis Square for the day. So I threw on a totally average outfit, hopped the 64 bus, and made my way across the Charles. We got Indian food for lunch, perused a farmer's market, and browsed through a vintage shop (totes an indie afternoon, amirite?), before heading back to her new abode for some Coke Zero and fashion talk. As soon as I walked into her little room I was obsessed. Of course I had already known she was extremely stylish (she is my friend, after all) but the way she optimized her space was so efficient I just had to share it with you guys (with her permission, of course). What can we learn from her, class?

1. If your room/apartment doesn't have a closet, buy a cheap rolling rack and hang your clothes on it

2. Use your accessories as decorations

3. Always display your most prized possessions in a prominent place

4. When you don't need your desk for homework, use it as a huge, open, jewelry box!

We spent most of the afternoon trying on her clothes and having a mini fashion shoot, from which most of the pictures look like this:

I managed to get a semi-candid pic of her that I LOVE

aaaaand you can really see my new hair color in the next one!

I really want to make Fashionable Friends a regular segment on Adelaide Stayed. I'm trying to steer the blog away from being The Emily Show 24/7, so to all my friends and family who are reading this right now... I'm taking applications :)

Grad Party

2011-06-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

Today I went to my Aunt and Uncle's house in Sudbury. A few months ago they offered to throw a graduation party for yours truly, and this weekend was the most convenient for most of my relatives. It was pretty low-key, so I chose to wear a pretty but simple dress I found at Goodwill this past week and some black pumps, which I ended up taking off pretty soon after these pictures were taken.

Zara dress; H&M pumps; Brighton Collectibles bracelet

All in all, it was a great party with great people, not to mention that I scored a TON of leftovers to bring back to Boston. Seriously one full ton and I can't eat it all. Dinner party at my place tomorrow!

Vegetarian Gourmet: Frozen banana peanut butter bites

2011-06-23T17:25:00.003-07:00

Whether you're looking to lower your grocery bill, improve your health, or shrink your carbon footprint, eating less meat can help you reach your goals. Vegetarian Gourmet is a segment in which I share recipes for healthy meatless meals and snacks. It's also a segment in which I prove to my friends who read the blog that I don't eat rabbit food for every meal. This week's dish is super, super quick and easy, and perfect for those sweltering hot summer days.

You'll need:

-A banana

-A few ounces of peanut butter

-A knife

-A freezer

Instructions:

1. Cut the banana into small, round slices.

2. Top each slice with a dollop of peanut butter.

3. Freeze overnight.

And enjoy!

The tall and short of the matter

2011-06-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

So, a miraculous event happened yesterday when I was in the dressing room of Buffalo Exchange. After a year-long search I finally found a romper that doesn't give me a raging, angry camel toe.

Target romper via Buffalo Exchange; Vintage belt borrowed from this dress; Brighton watch; Antique ring; So Good necklace; Target sandals

At 5'7" I get that I'm taller than most women, but not by that much. Why has finding rompers, one-piece bathing suits, etc. that are tall enough for my torso always been a problem? Does anyone else have this issue? I'm always curious about how tall or short other bloggers are because it's so hard for me to tell based only on pictures. How tall are you, and if you could change your height would you like to be taller/shorter?

Sunkissed

2011-06-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

If I have a sexy orange glow in any of the following photos it's because I am a naturally golden-skinned beach goddess and definitely not because I recently underwent a troubling self-tanner mishap. Ok, fine, it was Jergens' fault and I feel my story must be shared. Yesterday I smeared on a generous helping of tanning creme, taking special care to spread an even layer over my skin to avoid looking like a hot streaky mess. Fast forward to 9:30 this morning when I stumbled into my bathroom and froze in horror when I saw my reflection. Not to be unoriginal, but I looked just like any one of those neon buffoons from Jersey Shore after a marathon sesh of T (no G or L for me, thanks). I was able to to scrub most of it off in the shower, but a thin layer remains. It'll be gone by tomorrow so yuk it up while you can.

Thrifted purse; thrifted skirt (remixed here and here); Madewell shoes (remixed here); F21 belt and jewelry; top from a random boutique in LA (remixed here)

After I calmed down from the morning's trauma, I managed to visit to the frozen yogurt place down the street from my apartment building.

And I was accompanied by these lovely ladies:

Please tell me your day was less stressful than mine.

Photos by Teo

Two skirts make a dress

2011-06-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

Taking some cues from Jessie's shirt-skirt post, I got the idea to do the opposite and use a skirt as a shirt. This particular skirt actually started out as a strapless dress, which I of course maimed, almost ruined, and then restyled. Jagged edges aside I like it much more like this. Isn't remixing awesome?! Whole new look, $0 spent.

Wet Seal skirt-shirt; H&M regular skirt; thrifted purse; Laila Rowe sandals; F21 earrings, belt and bracelet; bird necklace I literally found in a pile of trash

If you read my outfit details you'll notice I found this necklace in a pile of trash. A few weeks ago when everyone was moving out of my dorm, an area in the lobby was designated as a place to put all unwanted items students couldn't bring with them when they left. The items were gradually donated to the local Goodwill. The pile grew and grew until it took up an area of about 25x25 square feet, and since there was no way Goodwill could accommodate all the stuff, it was pretty much up for grabs. This was great for me, as I was allowed to live out my dream of being a freegan and wade through a waist-deep collection of crap, taking with me as much as I could carry back to my new apartment. I only ended up taking a few books, a poster, and this pretty bird necklace. I'm really happy that I found it, too, because now whenever I feel like an outfit is too plain I can just put a bird on it.

Monique actually made out pretty well, too. She managed to pick up a perfectly good coffee maker, which was responsible for making this delicious dumpster coffee I enjoyed while admiring her new apartment:

Photos (except the last one) by Monique

The City's Summer

2011-06-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Quick post today. Spent the day at the gym/wandering around Allston with Monique. Wore a dress I bought on sale during my trip back to Virginia. What did you do today?

Delia's dress; family heirloom necklace; F21 bangles; H&M sunglasses; Charlotte Russe ring; Blowfish shoes; thrifted purse

Photos by Monique:

Chameleon

2011-06-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

Graffiti-covered walls and elaborate murals are part of the reason why I love living in an urban area. Fortunately for me, the greater Boston area is full of both of these types of street art. While out for lunch in Brookline, my friend Casey and I came across a wall that nicely matched my outfit.

Urban Outfitters skirt and necklace; F21 vest (remixed here and here); thrifted H&M top, H&M bag and sunglasses

Photos by Casey

Allston Wallpaper

2011-06-12T11:35:00.000-07:00

I actually have no idea who NAS is or why his name is all over this wall I found across the street from my apartment building. If this is some kind of gang symbol I am in no way affiliated. I just liked how the spray paint matched my lipstick.

Silence and Noise top via Buffalo Exchange; American Apparel leggings; American Apparel skirt (remixed here, here and here); Target boots; H&M purse (remixed here)

Photos by Monique

Sunday Sweets

2011-06-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

Today, after participating in the Post Hunt Connie and I decided to book it over to G-town to pick up some victory treats from Georgetown Cupcake of DC Cupcakes fame. The line was out the door and around the corner (comparable to the line at Tavern in the Square on a Thursday at around 11:30pm for all my Boston people), but totally worth it:

I was happy to spend my last full day at home bumming around the District. This trip has definitely made me realize that I need to move back down south after the summer is over. But more on that at a later time. Hope everyone else had an amazing weekend!

Lacey Summer Days

2011-06-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

As you can tell from the suburban-ness of these pictures (borrowed the garage-as-background idea from old-school Delightfully Tacky), I am back home in Virginia for the week. But don't worry, friends, I'm headed back to the great white North on Monday! Tonight, my parents took me and my best friend since 3rd grade, Connie, out to dinner at a fancy restaurant in DC to celebrate our respective college graduations. Connie just graduated from Virginia Tech with a bachelor's in Civil Engineering, and had her first day of real people work this past Tuesday at a retaining wall company. In the meantime, I am still gainlessly unemployed, crying over my liberal arts degree.

F21 dress; Michael Kors heels (remixed here); Target belt; Brighton bracelet; Guess necklace; family heirloom ring

Vegetarian Gourmet: Easy Hors d'Oeuvres

2011-05-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

Whether you're looking to lower your grocery bill, improve your health, or decrease your carbon footprint, eating less meat can help you reach your goals. Vegetarian Gourmet is a segment in which I share recipes for healthy meatless meals and snacks. It's also a segment in which I prove to my friends who read the blog that I don't eat rabbit food for every meal. Today's repas is something I've been wanting to make for awhile so I am very excited to share. Because I have no imagination today I am going to call these Goat Cheese Tomato Toasts:

My affair with goat cheese began early in my semester in Paris, during which I made myself a salad with warmed, breaded goat cheese (or chèvre as I pretentiously still call it) every night for dinner. I haven't had too much chèvre in the past year since I've taken most of my meals at the illustrious West Campus Fresh Foods Co. (aka the dining hall, with all the freshmen), but rest assured it is still one of my favorite foods. During my Salads in Paris days I noticed that goat cheese complemented tomato especially well, and have wanted to put the two together in a different dish ever since. And what better ingredient to add as a backdrop to my cheese-tomato combo than some delicious, hearty bread?

You'll need:

-2 slices whole grain bread

-2 small tomatoes

-a few ounces of goat cheese

-a sharp knife

-a toaster oven (preferably with a tray insert)

-aluminum foil

Instructions:

1 . Using the sharp knife cut the crust off the bread. Quarter each slice, making sure each square is about the same size.

2. Cover the tray with the aluminum foil. Place the bread squares on the foil and toast until the tops are golden brown. Remove the tray, flip the squares over, and toast the other side.

3. While the bread is toasting, prepare the tomato slices: cut the tomatoes in half and squeeze out the pulp. Next, cut them into triangles (like I did), or squares, rectangles, or any other shape you think will look cute.

4. When the bread is ready, use the knife to spread as much goat cheese as you want across each square. Top them off with a slice of tomato, arrange them nicely on a fancy plate and you're done!

(makes 8 pieces)

Return of the blogger

2011-05-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

No more veggie burger at the top of the page. Quit clicking refresh because the day you've been waiting for has arrived. I’m back and more well-rested and ready to go than ever before! During my 2-month blogging break I mostly focused on making the most of my last semester of school. How did it go?

The results are in: 1 out of 1 college seniors who write this blog have graduated on time with a good GPA!

I’ve also had a lot of time to think about the direction I want to take this blog in in the future. Instead of just posting my outfits I want to branch out and write about other things that are important to me. Among these things? Health and cooking, photography, personal finance, Boston, and more. This is why in the next few months you’ll be seeing a few new tweaks on Adelaide Stayed. My success in these endeavors depends hugely on you guys, so please bear with me as I broaden my blogging horizons while simultaneously navigating the new and treacherous “Real World” I have recently joined.

Ladies who lunch

2011-03-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today I met up with fellow Boston blogger and vegetarian food enthusiast Elizabeth for veggie burgers at the recently opened 5 Napkin Burger. They were delicious. And the ambiance is really great, too, it's a beautifully set-up restaurant. I'm kind of sad I didn't get any pictures of the inside but I felt kind of skeevy taking pictures of other people eating. So instead, feast your eyes upon my lunch (pun so intended):

Lunch was followed by a photoshoot on the nearby Christian Science Plaza, my favorite place in Boston because of its stunning architecture.

Kimchi Blue dress via Urban; F21 belt; Hue tights; Urban necklace; random boots; Accessoreez key ring

Surprisingly not the best fit.

Desperate Measures

2011-03-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

All dressed up and nobody to take my picture. Today I had to resort to taking emo mirror pictures like I used to do every day for my Myspace page in 11th grade. Yeah, I said every day. I was extremely vain. Fortunately I have matured a lot since then and don't participate in any such ludicrously conceited activities except having a blog that consists solely of flattering pictures of myself wearing nice clothing. But that's the only thing.

H&M top; vintage skirt (remixed); Hue tights; random boots; Brighton bracelet; F21 belt

One Myspace-style smirk for old times sake.

Gray day

2011-03-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

My favorite time of day is the early morning, and my favorite type of morning is a chilly, gray one. These are common in Boston during the Fall months, before the climate switches over from brisk to hypothermia-inducing.

Francesca's dress; Hue tights; Charlotte Russe ring; Aldo Accessories scarf; random boots; F21 belt

Here's hoping we get a few more chilly grays before the spring sun comes out for good. Are you guys all anxious for warmth or are you still enjoying the cold?

Mexican adventure

2011-03-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

Some photos from the first 48 hours of my trip:

Despite being burnt to a CRISP right now (seriously, so much pain), I'm having a really good time! How is your week going?

Spring break reminiscing

2011-03-12T05:12:00.001-08:00

Although I am beyond excited for my spring break trip this year, I have been thinking about last year's trip a lot lately. Last year at this time I was living in Paris and during our break, three friends and I traveled around Spain and Morocco for a week. I was recently going through the photos and I realized I've never shared them on this blog! So if you're interested in seeing some cute shots from mystical, faraway places, look no further! And feel free to ask me any questions about these places, I

Barcelona

Our first day in Barça! I forget what was so important about this fountain. I think it may be famous?

Outfit shot.

Barcelona has the best farmer's market of any place that has ever existed. Just look at their selection of chocolates!

Casablanca

I have friends in Casablanca who were gracious enough to take the four of us in for a few days and show us around the city. The next few pictures are from the Hassan II Mosque, which was built in the 80s. It's the 5th largest mosque in the world (and it's pretty effing epic).

After bumming around the outside for a few hours, we got to go inside for a short tour

Rabat

These are ancient Roman ruins just outside the medina, or inner city of Rabat. My friend Cailee is a huge archaeology nerd, and she was geeking out hardcore the entire time. Not that I blamed her, the ruins were awesome.

This next picture is a tomb in which several Moroccan kings are buried:

Marrakech/the Ourika Valley

My Moroccan best friend, Saida the baby dromedary! Dromedaries are camels with only one hump. Tasia got very jealous when she saw this picture.

View from atop my dromedary

The Ourika Valley. We spent this morning in a Berber village.

Well, there we go! I leave for Cancun at 6:30 tomorrow morning, and I'm bringing my computer, so check back for updates. If you're still in school, what are you doing for break? Are you going to blog about it? Let me know so I can follow your trip, too!

Pop of color

2011-03-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

No matter how early I get up for my 9:30 class I never have time to do my hair, which wouldn't be a problem if my natural hair texture wasn't Seth Rogen ("it's called 'jew'"-Knocked Up). This (in addition to hiding my blond roots) is why I can't get enough of the hot pink hat Liz gave me for Chrismukkah. Presentable hair with no flat iron required.

Thrifted Ann Taylor top; Express skirt; F21 belt; Hue tights; Target boots; H&M hat; Charlotte Russe ring

Ok and one sans hat, but cropped before the roots to save you the trauma.

Photos by Teo

Feeling blue

2011-03-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not depressed, I'm just really feeling the color blue today! Blue top, blue flowers on my skirt, blue wall, blue eyes. Everything is blue and I love it!

Thrifted Goodwill skirt (remixed); H&M top; F21 bag and belt; random boots; vintage ring (not visible)

What color are you feeling today?

Photos by Cailee

I could never look into your eyes, and settle for wrong and ignore the right

2011-02-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I bought Adele's new album, both because I love the sound of her voice and because I was in a music funk and needed a break from all the Anberlin I've been listening to lately. I get really obsessive when I find a new song I like. I play it over and over and over again, and after awhile I start creating music videos and choreographing new dances and complicated ice skating routines in my head. Some songs I even imagine myself performing on stage. Adele's new song, I Found a Boy, is this song for me at the moment. I think I've probably listened to it about 55 times since I downloaded it last night. It's a mellow ballad about moving on to greener pastures and rejecting past unhappiness. It's put me in kind of a mellow mood all day, which I feel is reflected by the muted colors in today's photos.

f21 top; Express skirt; H&M hat (present from Liz); vintage ring; random boots I've had since 11th grade; not sure about the tights, either

But yes, I can be introspective while wearing a hot pink hat.

Valentine's Day flowers are still kickin'

I can't even remember the last time I wore actual jeans

2011-02-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

Last year I wore skirts and dresses. This year I discovered the beauty and comfort of jeggings. I have never really been a "jeans and a t-shirt" girl (and am probably not going to start now) but every once in awhile I pull my one pair of jeans out of my closet, give them a good shake to get all the dust off, and style an outfit around them. Thoughts on this one?

Gap jeans; Blake Scott shoes; VS tank; blazer from a random store in Paris (remixed); Santa socks from my Aunt Deb; necklace of questionable origin

Photos by Monique

How to organize your jewelry

2011-02-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

Step 1: Go to Goodwill; find a gorgeous bowl/tray; buy it for $3

Step 2: Clean it thoroughly; fill it with jewelry

Aaaaand there you go! This works for me because I have a pretty meager jewelry collection at school. If you have a huge, obscene collection of baubles it may be prudent for you to invest in multiple bowls/trays.

Valentine's Day Flowers

2011-02-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

Sorry that I never update anymore. I'm thinking of transitioning Adelaide Stayed into more of a photography blog, rather than a fashion blog. I think I may enjoy being behind the lens more than being in front of it. But we'll see :)
Anyways, here are some photos of the beautiful bouquet my parents sent me for Valentine's Day. The flowers are so beautiful I don't even mind that they were delivered two days late.

And look at my awesome signature!!!! It means I'm a real photographer. Alert the press!!

Nothing like some Dior to make me miss Europe

2011-01-30T17:19:00.000-08:00

Marion Cotillard should cut me a freaking check for how much I feature her on this blog. Here she is as the face of Dior's 2011 ad campaign. I've been seeing these images in every magazine on the newsstand this month (especially the first one) and I am blown away not only by the colors, but by the locations (I'm assuming photo#1 is supposed to be inside the London Eye and #2 on the Eiffel Tower), and the photoshopping (frankly, #1 doesn't even look like her, but whatever, pretty pictures!).

Images via

The devastatingly interesting story of the copycat scarf

2011-01-22T13:24:00.001-08:00

Once upon a time, a 19-year-old college sophomore bought a really cute scarf at H&M. She was excited about wearing it because she was just starting to dress with style, and she fancied her new purchase a cornerstone of her future wardrobe. Misfortune struck, however, when, upon returning to class she realized that a friend of hers had the same exact scarf. This would not have been such a problem if this friend hadn't worn this scarf every day, and if the protagonist didn't have class with her 5 days a week. Much to our heroine's chagrin, the scarf became her friend's signature piece, and she was forced to banish it to the back of her closet until her friend grew tired of it.

Years passed. The scarf remained hidden for so long, she had forgotten about its very existence. Then, one day, when she was home for winter break, her eye was caught by a sliver of grey fabric poking out through two blazers. Intrigued, she gingerly pushed the blazers aside and was greeted by a beautiful sight: the long-forgotten Copycat Scarf. She reached out and freed the scarf from its prison, and wrapped it around her neck one, two, three times. Such versatility! she thought to herself. Several days later she got on a plane back to Boston, the scarf still resting upon her shoulders; and the two lived happily ever after.

F21 top; BP Nordstrom bag; Family Dollar jegs; UO socks and necklace; Target boots; H&M scarf; Brighton watch

Photos by Liz

You're impossible to love and leave

2011-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

The only thing worse than today's weather was yesterday's weather; slush, ice, freezing rain. I love you, Boston, but you are giving me seasonal depression.

Etam dress (remixed!); Family Dollar jegs; F21 vest; Charlotte Russe jewelry; random boots

In other news, you may or may not have noticed the increase in my usage of lyrics as post titles. I fully realize how cliché this is, but I've been blogging for a year and a half and I struggle with thinking up clever and relevant post titles for like... 85% of my posts. Today's title comes from Impossible by Anberlin. I love this band so much I even named my blog after a song of theirs. But more on that in a later post :)

Photos by Monique

I am a visitor here, I am not permanent

2011-01-15T13:36:00.000-08:00

Modcloth dress; Laila Rowe jegs; F21 belt; Blake Scott wingtips

Earlier this week I was asked if I considered Boston to be my home. I answered "yes" right away. Of course Boston is my home, I thought, it's where I live 9 months out of the year.

But now I'm starting to reconsider my answer. While it is true that Boston is where my life is now, Virginia is where my life used to be. From birth to 18, Virginia was everything, and I can't help but wonder why I've been so quick to give it up for the next best thing.

Tomorrow I leave to back to school, which means today is my last day in the house I grew up in. All aspects of my life are so up in the air right now, I have no idea when I'm coming back or if I'll ever live here again. It's just now starting to hit me what a huge step I'm going to be taking in 4 short months, and honestly, although I hide it well, I am scared shitless.

My future may be bigger and better than my past, but I know I will always want to come back here. So this goes out to you, Virginia. My safe haven, my constant. I think you are my home.

The ice was getting thinner under me and you

2011-01-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Notice anything different?

Forever 21 tunic and belt; Family Dollar jeggings; Target boots; Eastern Market earrings

I now have short hair (kind of)! It's a little shorter than I wanted it to be but it's much more manageable than my super-long locks.

Mexx jacket; random Burberry knock-off scarf

Any cool weekend plans?

Wingtipper

2011-01-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

Guys, I realize that I am unforgivably late on the whole jeggings trend (and I'm not even sure if people still actually wear jeggings, or call them "jeggings") but last week I found a pair for $5 at a random Family Dollar in south Florida and figured what the hell, I'll get them. $5 well spent, my friends.

Mexx jacket; scarf from an open market in Marrakech; F21 dress; Family Dollar jeggings; Blake Scott wingtips

One rule for jeggings-- always make sure the top you're wearing covers your butt. Nobody wants to see that seam.

Also new in this outfit: a pair of wingtips from DSW! My shoe collection is pretty conservative. Not in number because god knows I have an Imelda Marcos (or rather an Em-melda Marcos HAH!) sized collection, but in style. I stick to flat sandals or heels in the spring and summer, flat boots in the fall and winter. I rarely deviate from this formula... until now.

My mom is convinced they're men's shoes. When I showed them to her last night she actually yelled "those are mens wingtips!" Seriously, mom. They are women's wingtips. But because of that I can't stop calling them my Man Shoes now. Next time I plan on feminizing them up a little more with a dress and some tights. I have many ideas for these so expect to see them again soon!

Young professionals

2011-01-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

I don't have the energy to write a long post about anything relevant today, so look! Pretty pictures!

thrifted skirt; BP Nordstrom tee; H&M pumps; Express tights; Brighton bag; vintage necklace

Why don't you tell me about your day instead?

Winter outfits are like onions

2011-01-09T12:42:00.000-08:00

Today was the first time I've ever worn this dress in the winter (Check out summer stylings here and here). Putting the longer-sleeved top on underneath was pretty random for me. Normally I would have put a cardigan on over it, but in the spirit of trying new things in the new year, I layered the dress over the top. I really don't think I give the concept of layering enough credit. Layering is great! And I actually really like how this turned out.

Anthro dress; Nordstrom tights; Target boots; H&M top

One thing I love about this dress-- how cheap it was! Even though it's from Anthro, I only ended up spending $18 on it.

I also tried out a winged eye, which I haven't done in awhile. I can never get the wings exactly even, so I end up adding slightly more liner on each eye until I have huge, scary Amy Winehouse eye makeup and I have to take it off and start all over again.

Oh, and you guys get the title, right? Winter outfits are like onions because... they have layers!

Beach Bum

2011-01-09T05:26:00.000-08:00

Even though I'm back in frigid Virginia, I thought it would be nice to show the outfit I spent the better part of this past week in:

Target dress; Aero bikini top; c/o Boy Meets Girl tote; H&M sunglasses

More outfit posts to come this week! I have several meetings in DC so expect some more business casual (aka the exact opposite of this).

22 by 22: Go Jet skiing

2011-01-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

Remember my 22 by 22? Of course you do. How could you forget? Well, if you follow me on Twitter (and if you don't already, please do!) you already know that a few days ago accomplished my first goal: to go jet skiing! It was absolutely so much fun and I would recommend it to anyone who is kind of ballsy and into daredevil sports.

My cousin Caitlin and I could barely contain our excitement in the minutes before the skis were ready to ride.

You can't tell in this shot, but after I threw my concerns for personal safety to the wind I got up to 53mph on the open ocean.

Totally elated at the end of my 30-minute ride.

Would we do it again? Absolutely. Stay tuned for at least one more vacation post since I now have internet again.

Casual Girl

2011-01-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

Hello from partly sunny Fort Lauderdale. I have to say, this is a huge change from the sub-zero arctic temperatures of Boston and I am loving every minute of it. I got a nice little burn yesterday on the beach, so I spent today fully clothed in neighboring Las Olas shopping at trashy Florida stores and binge-eating Nutella gelato. This is the good life.

Wet Seal top; Hollister shorts; H&M sunglasses; DSW sandals; c/o Boy Meets Girl tote

Vive La Resolution

2011-01-01T19:01:00.000-08:00

via

I will admit freely that for the past 21 New Years I have been one of those people who sticks her nose up at new years resolutions, declaring haughtily that nobody in the history of the roman calendar has had the tenacity to stick to their guns past Valentine's Day (if they even make it that far). What's the point of even participating in this tradition if its meaning fades so quickly?

This year I have decided to take a different approach to the whole idea of the new years resolution. My friends, this year I have taken a page from the book of some of my favorite courageous women (especially Sarah Von and Elizabeth) and compiled a list of 22 things I want to accomplish before my 22nd birthday on August 8th; a 22 by 22. And guess what? Whenever I accomplish one of these things, I promise to come straight home and blog about it! I don't expect you to actually read through every single one of these but I'm putting it out there into the universe that I want to accomplish these goals in the next 8 months:

1. Graduate college

Ok, duh. I'm set to graduate in May. I don't expect there to be any problems with this, but graduating is important and therefore is my top priority for the next few months.

2. Get a 4.0

Slightly more difficult than #1. My semester GPAs have been relatively awesome, but I haven't gotten a 4.0 since middle school and I want to try my hand at it again. I'm looking to go out with a bang.

3. Run a 7-minute mile

The fastest mile I've ever ran was just over 8 minutes. My most recent time was something like 8:17, but I've always thought the ability to run a mile in 7 minutes was extremely impressive.

4. Run a 5k race

Another physical feat I hope to accomplish. Maybe #3 and #4 will go hand in hand.

5. Ride a motorcycle

Totally silly, but I've never ridden one and I feel like it's much more freeing than simply driving a car. You miss a lot when you're inside of a box. I want to feel the open air.

6. Visit Chicago

For some reason I've always felt a pull toward this city. My dad moved there at 21, right after he graduated college, and he loved it. Emma Aubry Roberts, hook a sister up with a place to sleep?

7. Lose 20lbs

The list would not be complete without a cliché weight loss goal (she says through a mouthful of Cheez-Its), but I have put on a couple of pounds since I graduated from high school/left for Paris/rediscovered Funyuns and I would like to shed some of that by August.

8. Do a 30 for 30 Challenge

I hope you are all familiar with the wonderful blog Kendi Everyday (and if you aren't, please do yourself a favor and click the link) and the remix revolution she has played a big part in starting. The 30 for 30 challenge involves choosing only 30 articles of clothing (shoes included!) to remix for 30 days. Another catch? No shopping during the 30 days! You can read more about the challenge here.

9. Save up some money

I won't go into specific amounts (that would be totally tacky) but I do have a goal amount of cash I would like to have saved up before graduation. How will I manage this? Well, not buying more clothes all the time is one way. Not splurging on expensive, girly drinks is another (pomegranate appletini margarita mojito? No more). I could also take more advantage of the dining hall and less advantage of the readily available takeout mere blocks from my apartment. All things to think about.

10. Get certified to teach English abroad

This has been a dream of mine for quite some time. I've been back in the US of A for 9 months now and am starting to feel the itch to live abroad again. I have gotten mixed reactions when I tell people about my tentative plan (ranging from "THAT'S SO COOL!" to "that's pretty weak"), but I feel like going abroad for awhile would be a great experience for me at this time in my life.

11. Take a bellydancing class

It's no secret that I am totally obsessed with the Middle East. How cool would it be if I added this sexy sport to my list?

12. Turn a heinous article of clothing into something wearable

One problem with this goal-- I don't have a sewing machine. Oh yeah, and I can't sew. But I will figure it out. I actually already have the item; I found it at Goodwill several weeks ago, and don't worry, it's just awful.

13. Spend a weekend in Canada practicing my French

I haven't been to Canada since my 12th grade ski trip to Quebec. The city was great. The 17-hour bus ride was not. Now that I live in Boston instead of Virginia, the drive will be a lot shorter. I'm also thinking of going to Montréal this time instead, since I have a friend who's in grad school at McGill. Decisions, decisions!

14. Go jetskiing

I may be able to accomplish this this week, since the resort I'm staying at offers a bunch of water activities. I'll keep you posted.

15. Go vegan for a month

I've been a vegetarian since I was 18 (although sometimes I cheat and eat a little fish. It's tough being a vegetarian who loves sushi), and I've tried and failed to go vegan a total of three times over this period, so I know I don't have the skills or resources necessary to maintain a vegan lifestyle at this point in my life. Also, I put cheese on everything, guys, it's so bad. But one month? I'll accept that challenge.

16. Make homemade ice cream

I've heard it's kind of hard, but it will be delicious. I am already handy in the kitchen, and would love to add ice cream to my repertoire.

17. Get a brazilian wax

Oh god, I am so going to regret this one, but I need to do it. I need to experience the mysterious and magical brazilian at least once in my adult life.

18. Sing in public

Not many people know this but I actually used to have a beautiful singing voice in high school when I took lessons. Next semester I am going to try to take lessons again (when I'm not hitting the books to earn my 4.0!) and hopefully my voice will improve to a point where I will be able to sing at a public venue without breaking any windows, mirrors, champagne glasses, eyeglasses etc.

19. Get eyelash extensions

All of my friends will tell you that I am a fake eyelash fanatic. I rarely go out at night without my falsies on. The problem is that they're a pain in the ass to put on and I always end up covered in eyelash glue. Can eyelash extensions solve my dilemma? It's worth a try.

20. Ask someone out

I have actually never asked another human being on a date (that I can remember). I have always been the asked, never the asker. And why not? I think it would be totally ballsy to take a risk like that. The next time an appropriate situation arises, I am going to go for it.

21. Make sushi

The vegetarian's dilemma. I inherited my love of sushi (along with a dry sense of humor and a pair of baby blue peepers) from my dad, a sushi aficionado. So sometimes I take the rules of vegetarianism a little more lightly than others. A little unagi once every few months doesn't make me a total hypocrite, right?

22. Do 22 hours of volunteer work

Ha ha totally cutesy, I know. I plan on starting out slow, then once I find a program I really like I'll stick to it. Hopefully this will be easy, given that BU has a great community service center.

There we go. My 22 by 22 is now out there. Let's make it happen, universe.

And please please please, tell me all of your hopes and dreams and goals for 2011 in the comments because I genuinely want to know everything about them.

Thoroughly Modern Muumuu

2010-12-31T12:57:00.000-08:00

Normally I hate purple. There, I said it. I HATE PURPLE. But I couldn't help but love this trapeze tunic-dress when I saw it in the sale section at H&M last week. Game, set, and match. At least it's not orange? Whatever, you'll probably be seeing this guy a lot in the next week because tomorrow I ship out to Pompano Beach, FL until the 8th. Fortunately I have awesome parents who took my imminent New Years hangover into consideration while planning the trip and booked a 2:45pm flight instead of our usual 11:30.

H&M Tunic; Urban legwarmers; Rainbow shoes; Charlotte Russe ring

If you're wondering where I found the stunning background for this shoot, I can't tell you for sure (it would ruin the magic), but I may or may not have been hanging out in the parking lot behind BJ's for awhile this afternoon

Today's (and yesterday's) photos taken by my surprisingly talented mom:

She actually looks kind of stylish in these! Maybe I'm rubbing off on her. A girl can dream.

Back to Basics

2010-12-30T14:31:00.000-08:00

Today I went to Bethesda for a morning meeting about career counseling. I'm meeting with as many metro-area bigwigs as possible during my brief time in the 703 to try and get an idea of what I want to do in May after I graduate. The firm's dress code was business casual so I jumped at the opportunity to wear this conservative sweater dress I got at a J. Crew outlet several years ago.

A red belt helped break up the monochrome.

Doing my best flamingo impression

Pretty big difference between how my backyard looks now and how it looked the last time I took outfit pictures back here.

J. Crew dress; Target belt and tights; Rainbow shoes

There is absolutely nothin' like the frame of a dame

2010-12-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

Some terrible quality photos of the outfit I wore to the Kennedy Center last week to see South Pacific for my dad's 65th birthday. I'm not really into plays, so when my parents told me I was going to have to sit through a three-hour musical I was practically suicidal. The things I do for that man! Fortunately for me, South Pacific has some incredibly entertaining musical numbers and the three hours flew by in the blink of an eye.

The checkered shirt I'm wearing is actually a men's button-down my dad bought for himself in the 70s. When I was in high school he gave it to me (or I stole it out of his closet. Either way it's mine now) and I have been struggling to style it appropriately for years. I think the key piece in this look is the menswear vest because it reigns in the loose shirt and accentuates my, ahem, frame.

Vintage Levi's men's button down; F21 vest and belt; American Apparel skirt; H&M heels; Talbot's bag

The dad in question.

And, as an added bonus, my favorite little present under the tree.

Style Sin

2010-12-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

Friends, I have committed the worst style sin imaginable to mankind-- I wore the same outfit two days in a row. But I was at work all day yesterday and I didn't get to photograph it and nobody really saw me so I don't feel too bad about it. When I started this blog in July 2009 I pledged never to wear the same outfit twice; So, for a year, I remixed every day, carefully choosing combinations I had never worn before. And it was exhausting, but so much fun! Maybe I'll start doing that again when finals are over.

Love this top because of its versatility. Check out other ways I've worn it here and here.

Charlotte Russe skirt/belt; Macy's top; Hue tights; Urban Outfitters thigh-highs; Target boots; Express purse; North Face coat

My personal photographer, the lovely Liz:

I think I have a new signature color

2010-12-06T20:25:00.001-08:00

I've been seeing red all week! And not just because it's the last week of classes and I'm mad about all the things I have to do.

This comfy sweater was perfect for today for several reasons: a). it keeps me warm in the already Arctic temperatures of the northeast; b). it's as comfortable as a hoodie but not as sloppy-looking; and c). the lettering matches the cute bow headband Modcloth sent along with my two new dresses. Thank you guys!

This look is also reminiscent of another outfit I donned over a year ago, soon after I started this blog (although today's ensemble was admittedly more casual).

BU Hockey sweater; American Apparel leggings; Urban socks; Target boots; bow headband c/o Modcloth

What's Black and White and Red All Over?

2010-12-04T20:44:00.000-08:00

It's meeee! Freezing my patoot off in a playground near the Charles to help my roommate Monique with a photography project for one of her OT classes. The assignment? Take a picture that represents "how we live" "how we work" or "how we play". Guess which one we chose?

Who's that cutie?

Fun fact: Mo and I have been friends since the beginning of freshman year. We met during FYSOP, a community service program for BU freshmen that takes place the week before school starts. Fortunately she and I (and Liz!) were all in the same group. We became friends immediately and have only gotten closer since.

modcloth Navigating the Canals dress; Hue tights; noname boots; Express purse

You can't tell in these photos but...

2010-11-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

There is a massive hole in the ass of the tights I'm wearing. Happy Monday!

F21 sweater; Nordstrom tank; thrifted Ann Taylor skirt; DIY assless tights; noname boots

Outtakes, round 2

2010-11-23T11:14:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, a blogger only uploaded flattering pictures of herself onto the internet. That blogger... was not me. Here are some of my goofiest outtakes from the past few months.

Ok, this last one isn't an outtake, but it is the last picture I took before I moved back from Paris 6 months ago (I spy something tall and Eiffely!) so I think it deserves a spot.

If you liked these, check out 2009's best outtakes here.

Midde East Boston

2010-11-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

My Aunt Deb came into the city to spend some time with me on Saturday afternoon. She and I went to Trident Cafe on Newbury Street where we got delicious Moroccan tea:

And falafel wraps:

This all made me think about how much I would love to go back to Morocco, and spend some time traveling around the rest of North Africa and the Middle East. It would be a good excuse to get back into Arabic! I should probably start looking into this, especially since I'm graduating from college in less than six months.

Nordstrom dress, Hue tights, Charlotte russe earrings, Mexx jacket, Claire's legwarmers, unknown brand boots, Urban bag

The Dog Days are Over

2010-11-12T13:34:00.000-08:00

Some weekend inspiration from Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine.

Pahk the Cah in Havahd Yahd

2010-11-06T16:10:00.000-07:00

Today I took my two visiting friends, Charlotte and Janelle, to see the sights around Cambridge. Our first stop was Harvard square. We got coffee at Peet's, looked at clothes at Hootenany, and even had an impromptu photoshoot in Harvard Yard.

H&M dress, Hue tights, Target boots

We also spent a brief period of time in Somerville, just long enough to grab some Kick-Ass Cupcakes.

Prep School

2010-11-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

Today was an awesome day, mostly because Charlotte, one of my best friends from home, is visiting for the weekend. We got up kind of early to get breakfast before my 12pm class, then I gave her a tour of Allston and Coolidge after a classy lunch at Qdoba. It was windy and cool but not cold, so I broke out my favorite sweater, which is also the one preppy piece of clothing I own.

BB Dakota sweater, American Apparel tights, Target boots

My beautiful photographer for the day!

Autumn Leaves

2010-10-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's already Halloweekend. Liz and I took a trip to the Halloween store this afternoon to pick up some last-minute goodies.

I've been seeing midi dresses everywhere this season so I decided to break mine out! This is one of my favorite new pieces, and it was $6.99 at Goodwill.

Vintage thrifted dress, Etam shoes, B.D.G. bag

What did I pick up?

Some weekend pictures

2010-10-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

I don't do a lot of posts about my personal life, but these are too good not to share. This past weekend was a doozy. I spent one evening at Elizabeth's (aka miss Don't White Sugar Coat It) place for a pumpkin-themed party. I had more pumpkin cookies, pumpkin hummus, and pumpkin ale than I can possibly remember. Which probably speaks more to the amount of pumpkin ale than to the other two.

Hue tights; Macy's cardigan; Old Navy hat; Blue Rain dress via Francesca's; Thom Brown shoes

My friend Liz and I also went to Dragball, a BU event that mandates, what else, dressing in drag! I don't have a lot of man clothes so I went to Goodwill a few hours before the party and picked up a short-sleeved mens' oxford (à la Dwight Schrute) and a red and black tie. Liz also went to Goodwill (separately) and picked out a similar tie with the exact same color scheme. Of course we would pick out matching ties.

thrifted shirt and tie; Charlotte Russe skirt; Hue tights; Steve Madden shoes

Key to my heart

2010-10-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Huh. So it's been awhile since I last posted. I've been super busy making the most of my last year in Boston while the weather is still nice (and boy, has it been unseasonably nice in Beantown this Fall), so blogging has not been one of my top priorities, but I'm about to change that! So what have I been up to since we last spoke?

Drinking lots of coffee, looking like a lumberjack doing so

Navigating the treacherous (and windy) waters of the Charles River

And logging hours at my new job-- Accessoreez Boutique on Newbury Street, where I got the item that inspired today's post: the key ring! This is my new absolute favorite jewelry item ever, and they're only $6 at the store!

Thrifted Ann Taylor skirt; H&M top; Accessoreez ring; Brighton watch; Express tights; Target boots

Marion Cotillard Unretouched in Italian Vogue

2010-09-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Stunning!

I recently read on my favorite feminist blog Jezebel that Marion Cotillard had appeared unretouched and, from the looks of it, makeup-free on the cover of Italian Vogue. This got me thinking about how caught up we tend to get in the pursuit of physical beauty. It's pretty silly, isn't it?!

Guiltless is a blog that was recently started by my two friends Elizabeth of Don't (White) Sugar Coat It and Stephanie of Food For Real, in order to promote positive opinions about food, weight, and beauty. Please check it out if you have the chance! I think it's something you would enjoy!

Chillin in the BPG

2010-09-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

The Boston Public Garden is arguably the prettiest place in the city, and definitely the best place for some outfit pictures. It actually looks like a dreamworld this time of year.

I am so totally beyond obsessed with this dress. I was hesitant to wear such a fancy outfit to class today but there are so few warm days left this year, I had to go for it.

Zara dress, Madewell shoes

How to Make Plain Shoes Edgier

2010-09-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

I got this bracelet at Nordstrom a few weeks ago and I am totally sick of it!

I got these shoes at Old Navy a year ago and I am totally sick of them!

How do I fix this problem?

Step one: Cut up the bracelet.

Step two: Krazy Glue the studs onto the front of the shoes.

Step Three: Let dry for a couple hours, then put 'em on and look fierce!

I like these wedges so much better now. I'm thinking about doing this to all my shoes.

The Almost Jew

2010-09-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

Even though I'm not technically Jewish (my mom is Catholic and I was never bat-mitzva'd, both big no-no's), I still like to observe some of the Jewish holidays with my dad's side of the family. Today I spent Yom Kippur with my entire extended family in Needham, Mass drinking Manischewitz and eating challah and kugel. And apparently, looking back on last year's post it appears I have a penchant for wearing blue dresses on Yom Kippur:

I couldn't seem to stop moving around, so some of these are kind of blurry.

My favorite shoes in the world

Doesn't my dad look totally adorable in his kippah?

My first Bloody Mary! I'm 21, I promise.

Delicious desserts

Religious or not, do you guys observe any special holidays?

dress, bracelets and shoes- Nordstrom

tights- Hue

shoes- Steve Madden

The Puffy Shirt

2010-09-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen this episode of Seinfeld?

via

I am officially bringing back the puffy shirt:

Can't get enough of the Target boots!

As a wise man named Cramer once said (in a quote that does not translate well into writing), "You know, it's the right time for it ... to be all... puffy and devil may care." I happen to agree-- puffy and devil may care is the way to go.

What do you think, guys? Whose version do you like more?

top- Boutique in LA

shorts- Old jeans from F21

socks- hosiery store in Camdentown, London

boots- Target

necklace- vintage, inherited

Chictopia.10, or the Time I Wore Target Boots to Fashion Week

2010-09-15T19:59:00.001-07:00

As you may remember from my last post, I spent this weekend in NYC for the Chictopia.10 Conference. You guys. It was awesome. I met some great girls whose blogs I already read (namely the adorable Jennifhsieh), listened to some amazing bloggers I somehow hadn't discovered yet (helloooo, Liz and Vanessa), and had a great experience learning about social media and the fashion industry. Here's my conference outfit. Photos taken by my cousin Sarah, who graciously opened her apartment to me for the 31 hours I was in the city. There's only one part of the outfit I would change-- the boots! Shoes can make or break an outfit, so why did I leave my heels in Boston?!

What are your thoughts on shoes' role in a look?

Lace top- borrowed from roomie Liz (from TJMaxx?)

skirt- Hudson, via Jari Boutique consignment shop in Copley

Tights- Hue

bag- BDG via Urban Outfitters

boots- Target

bracelets- BP Nordstrom

necklace- vintage, inherited

Cold Weather Shorts

2010-09-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

What do you do when it's too chilly for shorts in the shade, but too cold for jeans in the sun? Shorts with tights!

Sorry about the bad lighting. Inside lights are always kind of meh.

Is anybody else going to NYC this weekend? I'll be at the Chictopia.10 Conference on Sunday. Let me know if you'll be there, too!

Though I've never really been one to promote this blog, I figured maybe it's time for me to get more serious about blogging. So I had business cards made!

I'm really nervous about networking. I've never been to a fashion conference before! Do you guys have any tips?

Jacket- Pimkie

top- Express

shorts- F21 (cut up jeans)

tights- Hue

boots- Target

bag- Urban

Business cards from Moo. This site is great!

In which I out myself as a total slob

2010-09-08T12:36:00.000-07:00

Want to know a secret? I haven't been posting outfit pictures lately because my outfits have sucked big time. I'm talking yoga pants and t-shirts paired with 2-for-$5 Old Navy flip flops. Instead of jewelry, I've been wearing Tostitos crumbs down my chest. That is how sloppy I've become since I got back to Boston.

How did I get here? Let me explain: you see, two weeks ago I made the biggest mistake of my life and decided to "pack light" for my trip back to school. Packing light is awesome if you're, say, spending a weekend at the Cape or backpacking through the Andes; however, I packed light for a 4-month-long stint in another state. I am dealing with such a random mess of clothing with me, I am at a loss for how to even create interesting outfits with what I have. What is a poor, broke, formerly stylish college student to do?

In steps Polyvore. It's this awesome site that lets you make outfit collages using clothes from your favorite stores. I can find my items (or items that look like them) on the site and mix and match them in creative combinations. Not to mention, I can make all the outfits I want using clothes I am lusting after but can't afford.

How do you like baby's first fashion collage?

All items via Modcloth.

Something tells me I'm going to have a lot of fun with this site this semester. That is, after I hit up the Comm Ave Goodwill for some cheap thrills. Old habits die hard.

Shots of my city

2010-09-06T18:05:00.001-07:00

Mkay, so this has nothing to do with fashion or style or anything, but check out the Boston skyline at sunset:

And at night:

I love this place.

Boston Love

2010-09-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

I'm settled back in Boston, my classes have started, and I am ready to start my last year of school. Today was a gorgeous Saturday, so my roommates and I took a walk along the Charles. I thought this was a perfect opportunity to bust out the new cam and get some outfit pictures done, since I've been failing epically with that lately. Let me know what you think!

What do you like to do on a beautiful day off?

Top and bag- F21

Skirt- Thrifted

Shoes- Madewell

Earrings- ?

Out with a Bang

2010-09-01T13:56:00.000-07:00

Bangs round two:

The last time I did this.

Thoughts?

Etch a Sketch

2010-08-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Today was a magnificent day in Boston, perfect for perusing the shops on Newbury Street (Boston girls-- there is MASSIVE sale going on at LF Boston right now so get over there!). Fall fashions are out with a vengeance right now; However, the coolest thing I found today wasn't an article of clothing per se. It turns out that today and tomorrow the School of Fashion Design at 136 Newbury is having a "yard sale" of old sketches drawn by previous students. I found four totally different designs I couldn't live without. Check it:

a femme fatale

a '20s it-girl

a glamorous diva

and a Saks 5th Ave princess

How incredibly talented are the girls who drew these? They put my drawings to shame. So much detail in the clothing and the accessories:

That coat better be faux, Paula!

Also, look at this major sass machine:

I'm thinking of framing these and hanging them on my walls to make my room a little more interesting. At 5 bucks a pop, I could actually probably wallpaper my room with them.

Which one is your favorite? What would you do with these?

Happy and Colorful Eastern Market

2010-08-22T12:13:00.001-07:00

If you find yourself in the land of my birth (aka Washington, DC) for a weekend during the warmer months of the year, Eastern Market is a great place spend a few hours. Eastern Market is a gigantic flea market/farmer's market in Southeast DC that has everything from vintage bags to colorful paintings to delicious fresh locally-grown produce. And oh my god, the jewelry. See for yourselves:

In addition to inexpensive jewelry, the market also hosts independent designers, including Shobha Ohal, and Leah Sturgis. If you like cool, unique jewelry, please check them out!

If you look hard enough you can even find fortune-tellers!

One of the produce stands has the coolest little vintage cash register. It still works, too! Probably because they don't let anybody touch it.

Peek a boo!

Eastern Market has its own stop on the Blue and Orange Metro lines. Even if flea markets aren't really your jam, this is still a really cool area with great restaurants, including my favorite French place, a little bistro called Montmartre. I can't really describe how good the food is there, so this will have to suffice:

Does your city have an Eastern Market equivalent? What are your favorite weekend activities?

First Pictures from my New Camera

2010-08-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

I finally broke down and purchased every photoblogger's bff-- a really nice camera! A Nikon D90 to be precise. Bear with me while I learn how to use it. In the meantime, here are some photos of my favorite muse, who happens to be a big stinker and never wants to look at the camera:

Oh, and here are my feet.

Note to any Nikon users: I would love your advice. I am truly a novice photog and would appreciate any help you have to offer :)

All over the place

2010-08-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think I have style ADD. Do you guys ever feel like that? Retro one day, boho the next, edgy and trendy the day after that?

Pants- Nordstrom

top- American Apparel

belt- Aero

scarf- Banana Republic

shoes- Steve Madden

bag- random store in Paris

sunglasses- H&M

earrings- open market in London, England

On Safari

2010-08-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

Except not really because the most dangerous and exciting place I went today was my pilates class. And I was wearing spandex, not this.

In other news, I'm hoping my next entry will include pictures taken with my 21st birthday present. It's supposed to get here tomorrow and I am so beyond excited about it. Details later in the week.

Tank- Old Navy

shorts- Old jeans from F21

shoes- Madewell

bag- open market in Rabat, Morocco

hat- mom's

Wedding Shower Chic

2010-07-31T20:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Melissa is getting married in September and tonight she had a wedding shower/lingerie party. Here's what I wore:

I was a little iffy about the high heels at first but I just got them two days ago and i literally had to wear them today because I can't take them off.

dress- F21

shoes- Michael Kors

necklace- Works in Progress

earrings- Eastern Market

Summer Scarf Part II

2010-07-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

Saw this scarf-turban tutorial from What I Wore on Lemondrop. Today was a terrible hair day for me so I got to put it to use right away:

In other news, happy blogoversary to me! I started this blog on July 28th 2009. How has my style evolved since last summer? Check out the archives to see some of my past looks.

dress- Anthro

scarf- store in Montmartre, Paris

jewelry- street vendor in NYC

shoes- random beach store

Summer Scarf

2010-07-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

Summer scarf? Not my best idea. It's kind of hot out. But I did need something to punch up this otherwise boring outfit.

Bitch pose. I'm judging you.

Special appearance by my 11th grade prom purse:

Who's a recessionista?!

skirt- Old Navy

tank and shoes- Etam

bag- H&M

scarf- Gap

bracelet- Brighton

The Accidental Patriot

2010-07-21T18:50:00.000-07:00

How do you like my red, white, and blue? Totally not planned.

Super scenic photoshoot on Staten Island. If you squint reeeeaaaaally hard you can see Manhattan in the background.

I got a great shot of Lady Liberty on the way over. It took a lot of effort, though, the woman is such a minx!

dress- Zara Paris

shoes- Target

bag- vintage Dooney and Bourke

sunglasses- H&M

Thinking up titles for posts is annoying

2010-07-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautiful day in the city. I met up with Emma again during her lunch break for Crumbs cupcakes and casual conversation in Bryant Park.

The real piece of resistance:

A vintage Dooney and Bourke messenger bag. You can tell I'm in love by the way I have it cradled in my arms like a child. There's only one thing I love more.

Check out the fall version of this outfit, too. I mean like, if you're into that sorta thing.

top- Macys

shorts- F21 jeans I chopped up

sandals- Target

belt- Aero

sunglasses- H&M

bag- vintage Dooney and Bourke, Brooklyn Flea

So much drama in the NYC

2010-07-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Times Square tourist photo shoot courtesy of my favorite Emma Aubry of La Vie en Ginger. Exposure was too high on my shitty camera (my fault) so they came out a little grainy but I'm not too torn up about it.

What am I doing in New York City? Well, so far I have browsed vintage goods at Brooklyn Flea, ridden the Cyclone roller coaster and eaten greasy onion rings at Coney Island, window-shopped on 5th Avenue, and ordered a drink from probably every single Starbucks in the city. What's next: bumming around SoHo, visiting the MET Costume Institute to check out the "American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity" exhibit (that I read about in two separate Vogues) and, finally, a 5-hour bus ride back to Union Station on Thursday to be reunited with the white monuments and disgruntled politicians of my homeland. East Coast one love.

Skirt- Kimchi Blue, borrowed from Sylvia

tank- Etam

vest- F21

shoes- target

bag- Coach outlet

Style Icon: Marion Cotillard in Vogue

2010-07-05T06:44:00.001-07:00

Two style icon posts one after the other?! Sure, it's partly because I'm lazy and sartorially uninspired as of late, but also because when I saw French actress Marion Cotillard's Vogue photoshoot I had to share!

I love the way the stunning mademoiselle has been styled in sexy yet classy lingerie-inspired pieces. This looks almost as good as that one time I tried to wear a nightgown as a dress. Check out the interview, set in my former home, Paris, at the Vogue website.

Style Icon: Sheena Matheiken

2010-06-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

via

Have you guys ever heard of the Uniform Project? Well let me tell you about it. Last May, fashionista Sheena Matheiken decided to wear the same little black dress (above) every day for exactly one year in an effort to raise money for the Akanksha Foundation, an organization that helps children get schooling in India. Every day she accessorized and layered to make the same exact dress look fresh and brand new. Was she successful? You be the judge-- in one year she managed to raise almost $80,000 and send 220 children to school. Want to know more about Sheena's efforts? Want to see all the outfits she created? Watch this video.

Hats off to you, girl!

Hello, sunshine

2010-06-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

The last time I wore this dress was the first day of junior year. Oh how time flies. Hope you guys enjoy these shots cause they cost me about 7 mosquito bites! My backyard is beautiful but full of bugs.

Normally yellow looks awful on me, but this tone is an exception.

dress- Anthropologie

flip flops- J. Crew

necklace and earrings- open market in NYC a few years ago

Flowers and Stripes

2010-06-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

My best friend Connie turned 21 today! Here's what I wore to her birthday dinner at a local restaurant:

This dress has been sitting in the back of my closet for about a year, since I bought it on sale at Forever 21. I don't own anything else like it.

Chubby feet

Dress- F21

shoes- not sure

So Fresh

2010-06-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

My version of this site:

Nothing I love more than a fresh vegetable salad.

Two Worlds

2010-06-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

This outfit reminds me of a cute outfit outfit the Good Girl Gone Blog posted recently, which she called "mixing genres". I feel like this look is mixing genres a little bit, too. The top is kinda retro and the skirt is kinda bohemian:

Do you guys think I can pull it off?

top and belt- F21

skirt- Modcloth

shoes- Etam

bow earrings- American Eagle (present from my friend Liz)

stud earrings- Claire's

watch- Brighton

Minnie Part II

2010-06-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

A certain poodle seems to have found inspiration from this post.

She is a minnie-ature after all.

I'm on a boat!

2010-06-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

My mother is not a woman to be outdone. On May 17th she turned 60 in style in Rome, Italy with my dad and me; but this wasn't enough. So, yesterday she invited 48 of her closest family members and friends to wine and dine on the USS Sequoia Presidential Yacht. What does one wear on a boat of this magnitude? See for yourself:

From left to right: Alyssa, me, Connie, Charlotte, and Caitlyn

We all wanted to steer the boat:

Everyone was very patriotic

The sunset was beautiful

And so was the woman of the hour

Not a bad-looking couple for two senior citizens:

Outfit details:

dress and earrings- Lord and Taylor

shoes- Target

necklace- shop in Colonial Williamsburg

My backyard is awesome except that one time when it gave me scabies

2010-06-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

I want to say that pink gingham is in this summer. What do you guys think?

top- J. Crew clearance

skirt- American Apparel

shoes- Baker's

earrings- Claire's

bracelet- Brighton

Nympheas

2010-06-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

This dress reminds me of that one huge Monet painting in Paris at the Orangerie Museum. You know, the one with the water lillies?

With the long-lost Tasia Marie!

How did I style this dress last summer? If you want to know, check here and here.

Dress- Nordstrom

leggings- American Apparel

wedges- Old Navy

watch- Brighton

belt- came with a dress I got in Paris

In which I prove that I have forgotten how to pose for pictures

2010-06-04T19:30:00.003-07:00

I wore this out to dinner for my cousin Alyssa's 23rd birthday. Tip to anyone looking for a light meal at Bertucci's-- the Insalata salad is basically some wilted iceberg lettuce and like two cucumbers. You're better off just filling up on the rolls.

Also, can you believe this long top was a dress when I first bought it?

In Rome

I wish the washing machine didn't shrink all my clothes.

First outfit:

top- Zara

jeans-Gap

shoes- Banana Republic Outlet

necklace- marketplace in Chile

earrings- Camden Market in London

Second outfit:

Dress- Zara

jacket and shoes- Etam

bag- NY&Co