Of a Kind

I have a new favorite website...which might not be saying a lot coming from a person who has a new favorite site everyday...but seriously Of a Kind is A-W-E-S-O-M-E.  It's now my go-to place to discover new designers, and get up to date news of what's going on in the fashion industry.  Whether you are a hardcore shopper, or a blogger seeking inspiration from unheard of talent, this site has got something for everyone.  So, check it out and let me know what you think!

Indeeyo

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the launch party at ZAZA nail spa for Indeeyo, a new online clothing boutique featuring independent designers of clothing and accessories.  The site takes the endless searching out of more overwhelming sites like Etsy, as the founders take careful consideration in curating their merchandise, while still providing unique pieces.  The lovely Jeanne of Shop Sweet Things invited me to the event, and to be quite honest, I didn't really know what to expect.  My usual partner in crime, Kelley L Cox, attended the event with me (and took all the photos you see above), and we had a blast.  I mean, who could say no to a goodie bag, discounted designer duds, a free manicure, and free cakepops and champers?  I'd say a job well done, and after meeting the sweet and humble founder, Jasmin (on the right in the top photo), I have high hopes for this new site.  I was also fortunate enough to meet Bryna Nicole (on the left in the top photo)who was there  promoting her line of handbags which are also featured on Indeeyo.  Not only is she a UCLA alum (go Bruins!) but also started her successful label from scratch and was super inspiring to talk to about starting a fashion brand.  All in all, it was a successful night, and I totally encourage you to check out Indeeyo!

Black and White

Just a quick post today as the next few days are going to be HECTIC!  I'm heading to a launch party tonight for Indeeyo, an awesome new online clothing boutique featuring indie designers. The site is amazingly curated, so you don't have to spend endless hours searching for that perfect and unique piece.  I'll be sure to give a full report after the event!  These two images totally stand out to me.  It's no secret I'm a sucker for neutrals, and black and white are some of my favorites.  But I find it's often hard to pull off combining the two without someone asking you to refill their water (if you know what I mean).  Thankfully, a cheeky shoe, or a arm full of bangles add some spice to the ensamble, while your timeless black and white shine.  I'd splurge on the basics, and hit up Forever 21 for some bangles, and Aldo for thrifty shoe.

Image 1 via Glitter Guide 2 via Young and Reckless

Let's hear it for the boys

There's no denying it's a girl's world in this design blogosphere.  I know most of my readers are female (and anyone who dares leave a comment is DEFINITELY female...aside from my bf), and I must admit, I don't really know much when it comes to men's fashion.  But, I think it's time to learn.  Whether you are a dude looking to learn about men's fashion right along with me, or a girl looking to find the perfect gift for your brother or bf, hopefully this new feature will leave you feeling inspired!  'Cuz that is what this whole blogging thing is all about, right?

| SUNNIES | JACKET | SHIRT | SHORTS | SHOES |

Today's lesson...short and sweet.  Favorite (semi-affordable) brands for men's fashion: J. Crew, Uniqlo, H&M.  How to wear it?  Mix and match.  No one wants to look like a mannequin.  Even though their thighs do look fab in those colored trousers.

Tanks

I think these 4 tanks are the only ones I need all summer.  The perfect mix of neutral and patterned, sleek and frilly, there's something for every occasion with these fab 4.  (Kinda like the Beatles, but without the weird military attire.)  Confession:  a couple of the tanks aren't exactly thrifty, but I couldn't resist including them...plus Bob Barker himself would be screaming "The Price is Right" when it comes to the 2 thrifty options, which makes splurging on the other 2 totally worth it.

1. H&M 2. Alexander Wang 3. Vanessa Bruno 4. Tillys

Spell & The Gypsy

I'm a bit later than usual because I finally wrapped up that design project I mentioned here (unfortunately, I see that that post was compromised with the Blogger mishap last week...but basically I was working on a project to reduce the use of singe-use items on college campuses).  Needless to say, when we finished our deliverable, the last thing I wanted to do was go on Blogger.  But now I'm back and totally excited to share with you this awesome Australian jewelry company, Spell Designs.  While their prices aren't so thrifty, their blog is just as swoon worthy as their merch, so I'll settle for perusing their beautiful images, and maybe saving my pennies for that perfect bohemian piece.

Midi

What are your thoughts on the midi skirt this summer?  I'm a recent convert to the maxi look, and have always loved my knee length pencil skirts for work...but calf length?  It kind of sounds like stubby legs waiting to happen.  I kind of love the look of these two midi skirts styled by yours truly, but how would it look on me?  That's another story!  I'd love to know if you have a midi skirt, and how you style it.  Retro? Color blocked? Sleek? Bohemian?  Leave me a comment below!

Edgy night out on the town: | EARRINGS $36 | RING $9.50 | CLUTCH $36 | SHOES $89 | DRESS $190 |

Farmer's Market: | SUNGLASSES $5.80 | TANK $30 | BELT $6.80 | SCARF $5.80 | SKIRT $80 | SHOES $30 | BAG $50 |

Surprise!

Just like all of you (nod your head in agreement so I feel better about myself), I subscribe to nearly half a dozen deal sites that entice me daily with bigger discounts than a JC Penny's going out of business.  Usually I can resist temptation and ooh and aah at the lovely merchandise, and then proceed about my day.  But every once in awhile, something piques my interest and I just can't let it go.  I usually go to my bf to get a second opinion, and usually he says just the right thing to talk me out of my blinding consumerism and keep on the straight and narrow of my budget.  Yesterday though, I sent him the Daily Deal on HauteLook, and what did he do?  He bought it up...just like that!  (Only after asking me if I was a size 12...say whaaaaaaaat?...and to clear things up, no, I am not a size 12.)  Plus these lovely ladies are the perfect inspiration for what to pair them with this summer.  So now, with perfect summer heel in tow, I am ready for anything, and have satiated my consumer ways for at least another month.

Image 1 via apartment 34, 2 and 3 via all the pretty birds, 4 via refinery29

Etsy Wishlist

I haven't done an Etsy post in quite a while, and thought I would share some favorite prints paired with my favorite color blocking for the summer.  I am loving these mixed media prints by Brandi Strickland.  These are just some of my fave prints, but you should totally check out her shop, the woman's got mad talent.  Think whimsical meets phsycedelic meets your 4th grade doodles.  I'm in love.

Fashion images: 1 via Zara 2 Lucy Laucht via 3 via Pinterest

look for less

I officially have yet another blog crush. Have you met Lucy Laucht, the lovely lass behind her self titled blog (you guessed it...) "Lucy Laucht"?  This girl has got style to go around, and I'm thinking I  need to imitate her classic layering and pile on a chambray over my trusty striped shirt.  Her look is perfect for cool mornings and is a brilliant transition into spring.  So run on over to her blog and get some killer fashion inspiration, I promise you won't be disappointed! 

| 1. SHIRT | 2. SHOES | 3. HAT | 4. JACKET | 5. TOTE | OTHER LINKS: | PANTS | CHAMBRAY|

my love for men

| ONE $60 | TWO $50 | THREE $4.80 | FOUR $3.80 | FIVE $60 | SIX $66 |

Boyfriend blazers, oxford shirts and other men's inspired pieces are everywhere this spring.  To add the perfect girly touch: pile on some baubles, and add a punchy nail polish color.  I recently purchased those awesome Oxford shoes this weekend, and I L-O-V-E them.

Top images via earrings & stilettos

Dakota

| shirt $30 | jacket $55 | shoes $160 |

I love the look of that girl in the photo.  It's like Lady Gaga meets classic Parisian (never thought I'd ever compare those two).  At any rate, the look is timeless and edgy, and when figuring out what thrifty pieces to feature, I went straight to Dakota Collective.  That jacket is a dead wringer for one in the photo above, and while I couldn't find those rad leopard shoes, those cut-outs and laces are totally classic with a twist.

Image via D E S I G N L O V E F E S T 

summer shoes

| 1. Target $30 | Dolce Vita $86 | Anthropologie $118 |

Summer shoes are all over the blog world these days (check out here, here, here), and I am totally in need of some nude wedges for summer.  Normally my summers have consisted of lots of beach volleyball and outdoor time, but now that I have a big girl job, I need some appropriate summer attire that does not involve my Havaianas.  Which of these are your favorite?  Any other suggestions for summer heels?

spring has sprung

So, apparently I missed a wild and crazy rain/hail storm while I was in New York (not to brag or anything, but I enjoyed 70 degree weather while waltzing through Central Park...just sayin').  Regardless of the weekend's weather, yesterday was the first day of spring, and the shining sun made its presence  here in the bay.  These photos are totally inspiring me to update my winter wardrobe and add some flowers around my apartment.  There is just something about green and pink that screams S-P-R-I-N-G to me.  Dontcha think?

Image 1 via sfgirbybay 2 via Divorced from Reality 3 via Pinterest

closets i covet

I've got 2 blog crushes right now, and yes, they both involve closets.  I don't know if it's because I'm actually nosy at heart or what, but I seriously could stare for hours at these sites.  Both sites take a peek into a wildly stylish lady (some are film makers, editors, stylists...you get the picture), and pick her brain about how she accumulated such a divine closet.  I think I'm so hooked on these sites because perusing is the ultimate fashion daydream, pretending that these closets and their contents are mine.  I think I'll have to stick to daydreaming...yeah, that's a lot easier on my pocketbook.  Check 'em out...all images above are from Closet Visit and The Covetuer (organized by me!)

****************************************************

Update: I will not be posting this Friday because I will be participating  in For Japan with Love with Utterly Engaged this Friday 3/18 for a day of silence. This tragedy is a solemn reminder that Mother Nature still reigns queen on earth, no matter how much we try to contain her.  My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan, and I encourage you to join me in this day of silence and  help donate. 

Old is new: bangles

See that shiny gold bracelet above?  It was made out of string, and nuts (like from the hardware store).  Yup, string and nuts.  Pretty impressive huh?  And the instructions are easy as pie.  Get them here.  Plus, I think it would look totally bitchin' with one of these fabulous bangles below:

| fig. 001 $19.50 | fig. 002 $27.50 | fig. 003 $4.80 | fig. 004 $19.95 | fig. 005 $8.80 |

Zara for Spring

Can you even tell the difference between the Celine runway looks and Zara's lookbook?  I'm thrilled to death that minimalism is a force to be reckoned with this spring.  Can I have every single outfit? kthxbye.                    

Images via Zara and Elle

Spring 2011: Preppy

via Miss Moss

So, technically, the above photo is from a Fall 2011 collection, but I think the trend is still relevant for spring.  Preppy is everywhere these days, like a waspy weekend in the Hamptons, this force de prep school is unavoidable this spring.  Since this look can sometimes be a cross between Talbot's (before Julianne Moore was their go-to gal) and the Republican National Convention, I typically steer clear.  BUT, I must admit Topshop has been pretty impressive with their fresh takes on this classic look.  And that girl below takes Geek Chic to a whole new level.  Has Steve Urkel returned from the depths of Nick-at-Nite to invade thrifty fashion everywhere? One can only hope.

via Cup of Jo

| shirt $50 | shorts $66 | pants $76 | sweater $75 | glasses $32 | shoes $65 | 

THE hat

via Glamour (duh)

I'm been crushing over this picture for quite some time now.  Am I ridiculous for thinking I can pull off this look?  I've always loved hats.  I don't wear them nearly as often as I'd like to though.  Probably because I only own like 2 (my North Face beanie and my Fedora....so extensive, I know).  But part of me wants to be adventurous and try one of these little beauties.  Do you think it's too Indiana Jones?  Or just plain "trying too hard to look like you AREN'T trying too hard"...you know?  (That didn't even make sense to me.)  Let me know your thoughts, and what you would pair with this noggin topper.

| one $54 | two $32 | three $36 | four $45 | 

Confession: While I was putting this post together, I was thinking to myself "Gosh, that blond model looks soooo familiar.  Where do I know her from?  Does she look like some actress or something?"  But then I thought, "Oh wait, no, I've just been spending too much time on Asos.  That's how I know her."  Awk-ward.

Spring 2011: 70's Comeback

 via Omiru

The 70s are back in all of their Boogie Nights glory.  That's right, high waisted pants, flowing skirts, chunky sandals, and LOTS of chiffon are making their comeback this spring. Time to raid your mama's Goodwill sack up in the attic and channel your inner Disco Diva.  Key pieces include...(but OBVIOUSLY are not limited to) pant suits, floppy hats, fringed accessories, and jumpsuits (love a good jumpsuit, hate going to the bathroom while wearing one...can I get an "awk-ward").  How to keep the look current?  Instead of succumbing to mustards and browns, select 70s pieces in strong neutrals like black or navy.  Check out that lady below for some inspiration, because she OWNS this look.

via FASHIONOLOGIE

Asos has a great collection of 70s inspired pieces...here are my favorites, even if some are a bit over the top (I'm talking to you, Palazzo Pants).

| Sunglasses $23 | Jumpsuit $80 | Belt $27 | Bag $45 | Palazzo Pant $72 | Hat $45 |