The Accidental Fashionista

Getting in My Pick and Driving to Vegas!

2012-02-10T15:45:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, MAGIC Show! So I'm off to Vegas. This time my company rented me a Car, actually not a Car a Truck! A big Fancy F150!!! I never would have thought I'd like a truck like this but this thing is pimped out and is actually a smooth ride. I'm actually excited about driving to Vegas! All I need now is Something theme music for my trip and I'm set!

Happy Friday!!!

Oil Method

2012-02-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

So while I was in Houston I had plenty of down time in the evenings and came across a very interesting Blog post about the Oil Cleansing Method. I was a little shocked but I kept reading. The whole idea is washing your face with Oil and not Soap. If you're a acne prone person this probably doesn't sound very smart but they say it works for even severe Acne. Anyway as I read it I found myself rather intrigued and thought why not.
Let me explain why. I have had problems with Adult acne. Especially after giving birth to my daughter. Suddenly I had crazy breakouts that were not only HUGE but even painful at times. So not pretty! And the more acne stuff I used the worse it got. And to be truthful I am easily sold by Acne Face washes. I have bought a large range of products and none have really helped. So I stopped everything. I started using Purpose soap and Aveeno moisturizer. Nothing fancy! And it was better but I was still getting black heads and the occasional breakout. I needed to try something else. But what was there that wasn't going to cost me a fortune? So I left well enough alone, and I have settled with my skin for years now.
So in reading this article I was interested because here was an all new approach and one that wasn't going to cost too much. I have OILY skin as well. so the idea of adding oil to my skin had me worried as well. But I tried it and I've been using it for two weeks now. And I LOVE it. I followed the recipe for oily skin with one small exception I added a little bit of Tea Tree Oil. I love the aromatherapy I get from it and of course it's great for acne. Let me just say my skin hasn't been oily at all. I used to have to use those oil blotting papers nearly everyday but I haven't since I started this method. Another great benefit is that this actually takes off all my eye makeup. Warning if you add Tee tree oil like I did be careful, if you follow the original recipe exactly then you'll be fine. But it works!
The Key component is Castor Oil it's the real cleanser, then you add a moisturizing oil to thin it and to balance it's effects. I used a cosmetic Olive Oil. To Much Castor Oil and your face will feel tight and dried out like you used real soap. So they recommend you add more of your moisturizing oil if your face feels this way after. Funny enough I started feel that after a few washes and so I had to adjust my mix.I still put Moisturizer on after each wash and once again I don't have oily skin! It fells soft and Dewy it's amazing.
When I first started I had two large breakouts on my chin they cleared in two days. The areas of my face that tend to be prone to Blackheads seem to be clearing. What used to take two pore strips and a serious steaming now seam to be rising to the top and clearing on their own. Enough of the gross stuff, you get the point. This is working. I don't know about those of you with truly severe Acne but if you've tried everything else why not try this?! Any way here is the website for this method. She gets a little new age at one point, the blog where I read about this warned me as well but when I came to it I still rolled my eyes. Just keep reading and try for yourself!

I DARE YOU!

So Much for my Resolutions

2012-02-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!
Big surprise I already failed on one of my resolutions. Maintaining this Blog. I was out of town for a week and my iPad app glitched out on me. Hence the Blank "Leaving on a Jet Plane" post. And then I've been so swamped with life and work I haven't had a second to write. But I'm Back! Here's a fun video for you all to enjoy! Nearly peed my pants laughing!

I'm Leaving in on a Jet Plane

2012-01-27T08:20:00.000-08:00

A Whole New world

2012-01-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

So I'm back to work and so far it's no problem, but Shows are coming up and I'm getting more and more nervous. The product I sell tends to sell best for a particular group of people. Rockabilly! I am not rockabilly. I know this but I do appreciate a vintage inspired dress Ala Mad Men or Pan Am. The February Vogue had a spread with Vintage style pieces that I was drooling over.We have some styles similar to that feel but for the most part our product is Pin Up and Rockabilly. These are very different things mind you. So what have been up to?
Studying!!!! And big surprise I'm out of my League, but I'm loving it. This "Scene" is fascinating! These people seen like such fun and so far they have been so sweet! I feel like I'm on an alien planet. Anyway I'll be happy to share more experiences as they happen but right now I wanted to share some of my research and a few sites that below to my customers.

Huge Rockabilly event In Vegas!!!

Photo of Last Years Viva Las Vegas Event

Folter

Pin Up Style

The Gents!

Our Competitor, Sort of.

Classics

2012-01-25T13:43:00.001-08:00

Classics by accidentalfashionista featuring a south sea pearl necklace

Ms. Etta James

2012-01-21T16:16:00.000-08:00

Just Paying Respect! I can't say anything about this woman that isn't better described than in this clip!

Fashion Icon-Brigitte Bardot

2012-01-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

Hello!
So I figured it was time for another Fashion Icon Piece. The last two had such great results, Thanks for that Folks. This posts Fashion Icon Is Brigitte Bardot "A sex Symbol through the Ages" according to Time magazine. And I would personally have to agree. This woman is the reason woman aren't hitting the beaches in huge one pieces. Brigitte is the reason the Bikini became popular and has become the staple it is today. She starred in the film "the Girl in the Bikini" and made this radical new swim suit an instant success. She was gorgeous! The only other woman in history who has even come close as far as being a sex symbol would have to be Marilyn Monroe.
What I loved most about her was her Curves! She wasn't a twig she had healthy curves that drove men mad. I respect her for that and really wish we could get back to that type of mentality again. Curves are GOOD!
Other Signature Bardot Features.....
HAIR, BIG HAIR!
Thick, Dark, And sexy Lashes. Falsies will be required to get that look.
Thick Black eye liner.
A big Pouty mouth doesn't hurt also. I'd use a Lip Plumping gloss with a light tint.
Other then Mascara and Liner she tends to keep the face make up simple and Natural another thing I love. She was proud of her body and happy to show it off but always strategically covered.

Now for the fun stuff these are just a few photos I found that I loved. But there were plenty. I would recommend Time Magazines Page dedicated to Brigitte Bardot.It's very informative.

Last three Photos Found Here

Vice Admiral Fuzzy Von Mittens

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

So a lot happened during my down time, but one significant thing happened. I became a cat lady. At least that's what my lovely friend Byron calls me now. But this past November we made an addition to our little family. We adopted a cat. We got him from one of the Cat rescue groups that are always at Petco on Saturdays. At first we thought it would be easy. Fill out a paper, pay a fee, and get a cat. nope these are hardcore folks and so they had to review our application they met all three of us and then checked out our home. It was intense.
But we got a cat. His name was already decided on before we even decided to get him. Gary has always had cats that have some sort of military rank. His childhood cat being Captain Meowser. And then he even convinced his sister to add a rank to her cat, Sergeant Pepper. But he was saving a special name for when he would have a cat of his own and that is how my cat got the longest name in the world! Vice Admiral Fuzzy Von Mittens. He was hoping he'd get a tough cat that could live indoors and outdoors, but the Admiral is a house cat. He was bottle fed as a baby and so he's a cuddler. Right away he and I hit it off. He's very patient and so he can handle Leila's craziness. But most of all he's got character.
He's been a great addition to the home and so from time to time you may see him in this blog. So I wanted to formally introduce you to the Admiral.

Even My sister is in Love with him.

Even when he's allowed to go out side he prefers to just look.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Bringing Back the Roaring Twenties

2012-01-16T16:00:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to see a turn in fashion trends and a growing popularity in Twenties styles. But My jaw nearly dropped out when I saw Albertta Feretti's Pre-Fall 2012 Collection. It is all Twenties inspired pieces. I was drooling over all of it. I figured we would see this trend come back soon with the much anticipated Remake of The great Gatsby, but I never thought it would hit before the Film release. The pieces in this collection are, simply put, Gorgeous! I had to share. I hope you enjoy these as much as I did.

All photos found on Style.com

Changing the Look of Beautiful

2012-01-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

This past week there was an article released which raised a few eyebrows in the Fashion world. Personally it seemed like a long time coming to me. The change in model sizes has been a hot button issue for some time now but it seems to me that it's becoming an inevitable thing now. Current runway models and even print models are so thin they look as though they should be on those adopt a child programs. "For only 50 cents a day you can feed a model." It's sick really.
Personally I have always had issue with this. I love fashion because I think clothing and the design of it is beautiful. I think clothing should be made to flatter the body. We shouldn't have to Change our bodies to fit or flatter an outfit. As I type this I know I'm guilty of being caught up in this craziness. Didn't I just tell you about the numerous types of spanx I own? So there you go even I'm guilty.
In this January issue of Plus Model Magazine they released an article that added fuel to the fire that is the Model Debate. Photos of Plus Size Model Katya Zharkova completely naked with Facts about size and Models around her. The model herself looks beautiful. But it's the facts that make my stomach turn. The most jarring being that "Most runway models meet the body mass index physical criteria for anorexia." I'm telling you we all need to adopt a model and feed her!
Of course this article is only the most recent article to spotlight the fashion industries adherence to THEIR Standards of Norm. In the past year there was an increase of Trans gender models as well. Lea T the most famous of them all has been burning a new path for all. She was the first Transgender model to be featured in a Swim Campaign, A Brazilian Label Named Blue Man. And was even photographed by Fashion Photography icon Terry Richardson. She made it possible for models such as Adrej Pejic and newest model Valentijn de Hingh to even have a chance. Let me just say that if no one had told me Lea T was once a man I never would have guessed. She's gorgeous!!! I'm actually very jealous.

But there it is. The world is changing. Fashion is all about change, well at least it should be. And although not everyone is on board with these recent changes I'm sure they too will come along sooner or later. Let's start with feeding the models though. It's a fairly easy change to make. Anorexia just isn't pretty.

Photos From Plus Model Magazine

Adrej Pejic Photo found Here.

Valentijn de Hingh Photo found Here.

Lea T!!!! Photo found Here.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

The Importance of Underwear!

2012-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Yes I said Underwear. But what I really mean is under garments. It's around that time of year when my clutter has grown to such an extent that I have to start getting rid of stuff. This happens about four times each year. Right ow it's really bad. So I started going through things and immediately gave up.
Why? What could possibly have scared me so quickly? My underwear drawer. Actually Drawers! I have four in total. Two in my dresser and two in my closet. It's a bit insane.
As I have gotten older and I hope wiser I've learned that there are certain undergarments necessary for specific outfits. About seven years back I discovered Spanx for myself and so I have a whole collection of those. Then came Slips, and Girdles, and all kinds of horribly uncomfortable undergarments that helped me look good.
Staring at this collection of stuff had me dizzy! It so funny how quickly life can change. I used to strongly object to the existence of the Thong let alone the G-string. I just couldn't handle them. But then a friend pointed out my panty lines at a dance (yes we're talking High school) and that was it. I bought the Thong. I hated it, I'm certain we all do! So I tried a G String, That wasn't any better. But of course it cured my Panty line problem. That was it! The Thong was like my Gateway drug! Once you start there is no going back. And the moment I gave into the Spanx, well those are like Crack. They are the hardcore stuff you just can't go without. Once you go Spanx you never go back! Other simple things started getting thrown into the mix. With the trend of long skirts coming back I found use of Slips again, especially extra Long Slips for all those Maxi Skirts from last year.
It was like an Avalanche of Spandex, Silk, and Cotton. Special bras that won't show and special bras that are meant to show. Tights ad Leggings in Every color and Pattern. Corsets, Girdles to be more accurate. the ever growing collection of Spanx for every possible cut of dress. It's unending. And the worst part of it all Is I can't bring myself to get rid of a single thing.
And so My Winter Clean up will have to begin somewhere else. Perhaps my Socks. That should be easy enough.... : /

Photo Found Here

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Shoe Madness

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

I came across this shoes designer while doing my usual Fashion Research. I was blown away entirely! These designs are incredible. I had to share.
Kobi Levi is a Shoe designer with a vivid imagination, and the skills to bring his imaginations to fruition. He has his own Blog where he shares his creations. I would recommend checking it out. But I've picked a few of my favorites to share with you here. EnjoY!

www.kobilevidesign.blogspot.com

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Time to Get back to Work!

2012-01-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

Hello Folks! Well actually at this point all readers of this sad excuse for a Blog have probably given up hope. I don't blame you. I would to if I were you! But it's a new year! Of course we have all set our New Year's Resolutions. Mine are simple and kind of vague just so it's easier for me to keep them. All but one that is. That one being to really try to work on my blog this year. I plan to actually organize my posts and give you guys some sort of consistency and structure and hopefully make this a blog worth reading. As for my other Resolutions I have no problems sharing couple with you.

Get Healthy
Yes Vague but let me tell you what that has meant so far. I'm actually trying to work out more then Once every two weeks. I've already made huge changes to my diet. And I'm trying to cut back on the unhealthy snacks. For example Each day I find myself craving sweets. It's my biggest vice. Desserts! They call my name everyday, all day. Now I haven't shaken the habit yet but I'm working on taking control of it. Rather then eat the Candy or the ice cream I want I snack on something else that's better for me. Lately I've swapped out my craving for a Snickers for Almond Pecan Crunch. It's slightly sweet so I think I'm getting what I want but It's a small bite and ten times better for me! Yeah Me! We'll see how long it lasts. I'm staying positive but I have to admit I have a horrible track record.

Stay Positive!!

Easy right? You'd think but I last year I found myself in not so pretty mind sets and I don't want to go there again. I've started a new Job, close to home, easier hours, and so far significantly less stress! So I am enjoying my time and living a life. And when life throws me it's usual curve balls I'm trying to stay cool. Again We'll see how long this lasts but so far so good.

Pretty Basic stuff Huh? yeah but, and I know I'm not alone in this, we all loose track of these simple things and let all the other stuff get in the way. This year I'm keeping it simple and hopefully everything else will follow. Feel free to join me in my quest!

Happy Year guys, let make 2012 a memorable year!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Life's Little Twists and Turns.

2011-12-06T15:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Folks!
Sorry for falling off the face of the earth AGAIN. Perhaps you remember this post. Well I had to leave after all. And although I was all prepped for it initially, life threw me a curve ball. And the work I had hoped to start ASAP was pushed out till January. So what does that mean? Vacation I guess and well a search for other possible work. But Life really is funny, As I have mentioned, My sister is getting married. The day of her Bridal shower I would have been in New York selling Shoes if I had been working still. So instead of missing that I was not only able to attend but I helped. And with the Actual ceremony is coming in a couple weeks I can actually be a real part of it. Also December is a super crazy month for me. Not just because of Christmas and New Years but also because of my Daughters Birthday and My Mother-in-Laws, Nephews Birthday, and my sister-in-laws Birthday. Throw a wedding in the mix and who has time for work? Especially a poisonous job filled with anxiety and hostility.

So I've taken the down time to remind myself of what having a life feels like. And let me tell you it feels great! So my posts for the next month will be about Life and not so much Fashion. It is me we're talking about though and so there will be some!

View from Echo Mountain, Pasadena, CA

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Truly Shoe Crazy

2011-11-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

So once again I have made some great discoveries during Research for work. With the greatly anticipated launch of our Footwear collection I have now gone in search of bloggers to work with. And I was surprised to find that there aren't as many bloggers devoted to shoe alone as as their are to Fashion in general. I guess it shouldn't be a surprise, but what with the female obsession with footwear I thought their would be a plethora. Despite the small numbers I found some great Blogs. And I just had to share. Check them out.

"Running with Heels"

"She Said Shoes"

"Shoe Smitten"

"Shoe Wawa"

www.shoesmitten.com

Impressive!!!

2011-11-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

I was researching Shoe Bloggers today for work and I came across a great video post by Shoeblogs.com but under the Manolo's Shoe blog. It was a video from Louis Vuitton's Atelier making their shoes. I was thoroughly impressed and just had to share the video!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

It has finally arrived, One of my favorite Holidays!! Have a Goolish good Time!


Photos and Project instructions found at MarthaStewart.com

What do You Think?

2011-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

So as you know I do a lot of Fashion research. I look over runway shows and collections constantly. Sometimes I look at designs and I just can't decide whether I like it or not. These photos from Camilla and Marc's Spring 2012 RTW are a perfect example. The clothes are great, the Model looks beautiful, but the same pose over and over with not movement seems a little off. Perhaps that was the effect they were going for. What do you think?

Photos found at Style.com.

Whoa! Halloween

2011-10-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I really got into Halloween, until I read this piece on Fashionista. Heidi you are Super crazy Cool.

My Favorite I think.

Happy Thoughts!

2011-10-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Folks!

This week didn't have many silver Linings. Got two Credit Cards fraudulently stolen and not such a happy week at work as you may have read. BUT I will always have Happy thoughts even if there are a crummy things. This weekend I have a big Football game. Better said USC has a Big Football Game. We're going up against Stanford this weekend and I plan on losing my voice yelling at them.

Go SC!

Also My little Angel and I will be getting the final Touches to her Halloween Costume and although Monday is not part of the weekend, since it is Halloween I am going to just throw it into the mix. Happy Halloween Folks!

She always looks so sweet when she sleeps. And then she wakes! J/K

Opening ceremony

2011-10-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

Had to share a few great Photos from Opening Ceremony's Spring RTW 2012.

All photos found on Style.com! Thanks!

Hostile work Environment

2011-10-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

I've been working in Fashion for years now. First as a designer where everyone is a character and most are crazy, myself included but in a good way. Then I got into sales and well the people definitely changed. I found people in sales to be more forceful. And so in changing career paths I had to first grow a tough skin and then I had to learn to bite back! I've been through a lot and I've experienced all kinds of characters in this facet of the industry. But one thing I have learned is I don't do well with disrespectful and rude. I lose all patience with disrespectful people. It's my Achilles heel.I learned long ago I can't handle it, and so when I enter a work place with a person like that I tend to go straight to my director and if there is nothing to be done then I decide whether to stay or go. I usually tend to leave, because if the person had been there before and behaved that way most likely no one was interested in making them change or losing the person.

Well to my disappointment I find myself in that same situation again. Although this time I chose to stay and speak with my director about the situation. Well I've been submitting complaints for months now and she's still here. So I find myself wanting to jump ship. I don't work well in hostile environments. I can handle pressure and stress but not hostility another thing I learned long ago. And let me tell you this girl is hostile. In truth there are two of them but I feel that if one were gone the other would calm down also only one is affecting my work and truly attacking me.

I've tried being diplomatic. But the fiery Latin in me is about to lash out and Slap this........ (I'll keep this clean). It seems that professionalism isn't a priority and respect is optional and so it may be time to leave. For now I'm trying to stay calm and Zen!

Tomboy fighting my Fashionista

2011-10-26T17:09:00.001-07:00

Tomboy fighting my Fashionista by accidentalfashionista featuring leather shoes

Wild Adventures

2011-10-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a jam packed weekend for me. And it all began with my Annual Halloween Party. Every year we throw a huge Halloween party and we always make an event of it. Each year has it's own theme and we decorate the house according to the theme. Well this year was Adventure a la Indiana Jones. So a maze was built along with a tiki hut. Heads were put on posts, arrows stabbed through everything and skeletons, snakes, and spider webs were everywhere. Oh yeah and we had a real lion, stuffed of course but a lion non-the-less. It was a great success and the theme proved to be a perfect fit for us. Check out the photos.

Yes It's real! Friend of ours Shot it on Safari.

LA Fashion Weekend Swim Show

2011-10-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Last Night was the final evening of Los Angeles Fashion Weekend at the Sunset Gower Studios and My company's Runway show. This was the second Show I have coordinated for my company and so my stress level was much lower than last time, but not by much. Everything was planned on our part and so I felt good about that, but one thing I've learned fast and the hard way is that you can't always count on everyone else to keep their parts organized. The show had some great points a few hiccups. One great surprise was that the whole show was going to be broadcasted live on the local news Station KTLA. The hiccup on this was I wasn't informed until an hour before the show. So yes it was good thing but a mistake on the part of the producers. One thing you should know about this Fashion week is that each night is a group show. So we showed last night along with three other designers one of which was Betsey Johnson. Major selling point for us! The hiccups.....
Well they were small and so I think I'll just leave you with the highlights of the show. Here are a few photos from the show. they were taken on my iPhone so forgive the quality on a few of them.

Cocktail Hour before the show.

I've been to a couple of events with this guy and he always makes a statement. Why is there a Race car at a Fashion Show? I have no idea.

Front Row with One of our Designers.

Just after the tents opened.

Our Shoes, but Another Designer's Collection.

From what I heard this girl was a winner of the America's Next top Model.

Nicole Lee Handbags

One of my favorite shoes fro our Nicole Lee collection

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

The Happiest Thought of All

2011-10-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have noticed my happy thoughts list was one short of it's usual five. Well that's because today is a special today. Today is my Baby Brother's Birthday. I'm older then him by 12 years and so our dynamic is closer to Mother and son than Siblings, Me bossing him around and telling him to iron his shirt. But we work. I love him like Mad. It was the all girl parade before him and he was exactly what our Family needed. He completed us and I thank God everyday for my sweet little brother. Happy Birthday Mook.

Such a Handsome Boy.

Him and our Middle Sister, both HUGE hams.

I promise he deserved it.

Photo taken by my sister during her photography years.

He can always make us laugh.

Him and my Daughter. Such a great Uncle.

The two of us 16 Years ago and now.

Our Crazy Family

My Sweet Boy and Mom

Happy Thoughts

2011-10-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

It's Friday Folks! So it's time for Happy Thoughts. It's Full weekend for me. First I have my daughters Ballet Class. She just started and she's loving it. And I'll admit I'm loving it too. I just love watching her dance or better said try. It's such a warm moment seeing her all grown and becoming a little person.

After Ballet I have a Baby Shower for a dear Coworker. And from the sounds of it this should be a very fun Baby Shower! This a particular Happy Thought because I have a small case of Baby fever. I'm surrounded by pregnant women at work.

Our Annual Halloween Party is next weekend, and I have yet to get my Costume in Order. So I will be doing some shopping this weekend. Since the theme this year is Adventure I'm thinking a Female Indiana Jones. The key is the Fedora.

Last I'm doing a little work this weekend. The Transit Shoe Show is next week and I have to set up our booth this weekend. No I'm not happy about work but actually I'm thrilled that this show is in my town and My old work place, The California Market Center. It should be easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Arm Parties on the Runways

2011-10-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

We have all taken notice of this Massive trend of Arm parties. Bloggers around the globe have written about them and shared their own interpretations. I was excited to see that the Fashion World has jumped on board. Check these out.

Fendi

Carolina Herrrera

Dolce and Gabbana (not actually a party but that's such a busy bracelet I figured it could be included)

Fendi

Trend Research Spring 2012- Mary Jane

2011-10-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

So there was another trend I saw on the runways again and I realized that this can't be categorized as a trend, but rather a fashion Staple now. The Mary Jane. It's come in thousands of forms but it's always been present. I particularly liked the variation of this iconic shoe in the Dolce and Gabbana Show. It was edgy and still very lady like.

Celine had a really fun spin on the Mary Jane as well. Much more edgy and on trend with this whole chunky Heel.

All photos were found Here.

Art yes, but not wearable!

2011-10-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Commes des Garcon runway was visually Fantastic, but Not very wearable. What do you think?


Love the wrap in this!

Photos found Here!

Please, NO!

2011-10-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

In my trend research there was one thing that kind of had me fuming! So this past year I was really annoyed with Stella McCartney's Citrus prints but I was thrilled that it didn't REALLY Take flight as a trend. Or so I thought! First off I was watching Gossip Girl, No Judging! And the fashion Princess Blair Waldorf was wearing a Stella McCartney's citrus Print Skirt. Oh Blair Say it ain't So!!! Mild heart break for me as I really hate this print, I just think it's silly. I'm willing to bet in a few years we will look back at this time and list this trend as a joke of the times. Like the Parachute pants and Flat Top fades of the eighties!
Anyway I thought fine the citrus print wasn't a complete failure, but obviously it wasn't a huge success either. It was a mild trend and I thought we were done. But then D&G had to revive this Fruits and vegetable trend! Why?! Why?! Why?! Dolce and Gabbana had Tomato,Red onions, Chilli peppers, Zuchini, and Eggplant prints in their S/S 2012 Ready to wear Runway in Milan. And I felt my heart sink into my stomach. I was dumbfounded.

Don't let this go any further, say no to fruits and vegetables!

Oh yes how could I forget the matching vegetable earrings. Photos found Here

Trend Research for Spring-Woven

2011-10-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

So being an Accidental Fashionista the one thing I've learned is, Just cause it's fashion it doesn't mean you don't have to study. In fact in truth I'm always studying, just when I think I'm good it's time to move on to the next trend Report and Sales Report and then I'm back to square one. I'm currently at square one right now and so my research is in full swing. Fall and Winter are long gone for me, the industry is always six Months ahead at the very least. So I'm on to Spring and Summer 2012. I was looking through runway shows this past weekend, although this time I was focused on all the details of the runway shows. The Shoes and Handbags in particular, but Belts and Hats and Jewelry as well. Actually I found that runways show which I disliked initially I loved when it came to the accessories and show which I liked previously fell flat when it came to accessories. I'll evaluate that better another time. For now I'll just share my Analysis, but I'll have to do it in doses. There is way to much to share in one Blog Post.

Spring 2012 will be all about the weaves. Woven Leather, woven Straw, Woven, woven, and woven! Personally I'm thrilled I love this trend and always have. It's one that keeps coming back, which to me means I'm not a complete fashion loss. Here are a few highlights from my research.

Burberry- Woven Bag

Burberry-Note the hat and the sweater looks like a basket weave.

Burberry-Super Cute wedge!

Burberry-Woven Clutch-I think I would kill for this clutch!

Dolce and Gabbana-OK so this is Crochet but the effect is the same.

Dolce and Gabbana- Rafia Bag

Dolce and Gabbana-GOLD Rafia Bag *Love this!*

Fendi- Woven Leather.

Fendi- Woven Wood?? Definitely has a structure.

Transitioning to Fall Wardrobe

2011-10-06T16:43:00.001-07:00

Transitioning to Fall Wardrobe by accidentalfashionista featuring leather boots

"The Walt Disney of the Technological World"

2011-10-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

As a Apple Junkie and a Pixar die hard I had to post something about Steve Jobs. It's a tragic loss and I would like to send out my deepest condolences to the family and all his friends! He was a great innovator and has left such a huge impact on our world!

Found Here

Happy Thoughts

2011-09-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

Today I have so Many Happy thoughts that it was very hard to narrow it down to my usual five but I did. First and Foremost is My Beautiful Baby Sister's birthday is Tomorrow.

Happy Birthday Nena I LOFF You Mucho!

The Birthday Girl is on the Left!

Also this weekend will be our first shopping trip for my other sister's upcoming nuptials. I'm actually really excited about this. I think it's going to be fun. And it's the only thing I'm able to help on. The Clothing and accessories for her gown and the bridesmaids.

My little Girl will begin Ballet School. My Aunt came by yesterday and dropped off a whole new Ballet wardrobe for my daughter and so now she is ready to begin Ballet. She's been walking on her tippy toes ever since she began to walk so I think this will be a perfect fit.

The Music Festival!!! Enough Said!

Halloween Decorating!! Since it's Officially October this weekend I get to start putting out our Decorations. Every Year we throw a big Halloween party and this year is no exception. So this Sunday will be the start of the Set up!

Photo from HGTV

Have a Great Weekend Everyone!!!

NYFW-Wes Gordon

2011-09-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

A few picks from Wes Gordon's Show. All pieces I would love to wear!

NYFW-Vivienne Tam

2011-09-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry this is such a Late posting, Ive been sitting on these photos for weeks now. I just had to finally share because I'm loving the details in this collection! So enjoy a bit of eye Candy.

Eagle Rock Music Festival 2011

2011-09-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

I've written about my small town in the Big city many times before. We don't have much in our area but we've got a few great gems that make this lazy little town a bit more enticing to the rest of the City. Why should you drive out to Eagle Rock? Well this weekend is our 13th Annual Music Festival. This festival started small and only took a single block in it's yearly years, but everyone loved it. My family in particular because that one stage they had was one block from their home and played salsa music which had my mother dancing in the streets.
Since then the Festival has expanded to over eight blocks of Our Main Street. They Have 12 Stages Placed up and down the street, Vendor Booths running in the center of the street, and All the local Shops stay open late with their own parties or bands inside. It's tons of Fun.
Each Year I pick up a schedule and take a look at who's playing where and which bands I want to see. This year I got the Map early and let me just say I was shocked when I saw the Lineup for this year. we usually have great Local bands and a few indie bands with great potential. In fact I would be surprised if someday in the future I were to see one of those bands on TV talking about how they started with the Eagle Rock Music Festival. Well this year there is no wondering if these people will be big one day. This year we have a stellar Lineup! Three caught my eye right away, Rooney, Flying Lotus, and Shadow, Shadow, Shade.
Rooney of course was the first I was excited about. When I was Studying in London I went to a performance of theirs in this tiny Pub. They were great Live and the small venue made it feel like we had been invited to a cool private party. It was a memorable night. And so I'm looking forward to seeing the band again.
So those of you who happen to be in LA this weekend Stop on by the Eagle Rock Music Festival! It promises to be a Great Festival. I'll post again after!

Fashion Icons-Audrey Hepburn

2011-09-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

So My little Sister is getting Married!!!! Yeah!! and she wants to have a the bridesmaids dressed like Audrey in Breakfast at Tiffany's. So we've been on the search for the right dress, the right pearls, we're still not sure about tiara's and possibly Wayfarer sunglasses. but with all this time and research into the look of Audrey I thought it was time to post another Fashion icon post.
I had always planned on posting about Audrey, but I kept staling since it seemed like such a give away. Of course she's a fashion Icon. No writer in the world would dare make a list and not have her in the top ten of all time. The woman is a MAJOR factor in Ray Ban's huge success and the return of the Wayfarer sunglasses which every other company is currently knocking off! Aside from her timeless films she had a timeless look. A woman today could wear any of her outfits and look chic and perfect. Her style was simple and classic.
So what should everyone every woman take from Audrey's Style?

Keep it simple!! Nothing wrong with a simple top and cropped pants. Who says you have to have four layers of clothing and a scarf to top it off?!
Every woman needs a LBD-Little Black Dress! I have three great go to LBDs.
Embrace your Natural features!!! She had thick Eyebrows and a a short forehead, and she looked FABULOUS!!!
Be Kind, it make you even more beautiful! Not many folks know of Audrey's philanthropic work throughout her life but in Her later years she did a great deal of work with UNICEF and was even awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

So there it is the few fashion rules I've gained thanks to Audrey Hepburn. Hope you use them as well.

Missing Blogger

2011-09-28T15:16:00.000-07:00

So I know I've been MIA lately. Work has consumed my life lately. I had a rare break this past weekend or better said breakdown, and I had a chance to spend time with My precious little monster. I chose this industry and I do love it, but if you want to succeed you really have to give it your all. And Lately that's meant time away from my Daughter. So a day stuck at home (due to a broken down car) with her turned out to be the best thing to happen to me in months. I didn't take photos that day, it wasn't a day to be shared with all just a day for us two. But these are a couple of shots of a Summer Dinner on our tiny porch. Me taking an adult time out and my little one enjoying a sweet treat.

I look like such a Lush! Sorry folks.

New York, Again

2011-09-16T17:31:00.001-07:00

So I'm back in New stork again for work. This trip is already very different then last time. This time around it's just me and a new coworker. He seems like a nice enough guy but we aren't buddy like I am with our designer who was with me on my last trip.
Somehow my new coworker talked me into taking the train all the way from JFK to 42nd street rather than just pay for a taxi. Not sure if it was the money he was worried about but I didn't think taking the train was very convenient. Also this time around I packed a little more since this is a longer trip than last time and I had three large binders from work so my suitcase was heavy. I was tired ( our flight was at 7:20 am PST and I didn't get a chance to eat anything) I really needed to eat and rest and well hauling my stuff around the city wasn't on my do to list.
But we made it and in one piece. And our Hotel is actually kind of cool. It's definitely a tourist hotel, in fact I've heard at least six different languages in the first fifteen minutes of being here. But it's modern and different. The room is like a cruise room, compact and efficient. At first I was scared I didn't have enough space for my clothes but actually it worked out.
I ate dinner in the hotel restaurant. Nothing great but it filled me up and at the time anything would have done. Service wasn't great although I saw five waiters walking back and forth past me. I'll have to find other places to eat on this trip but for today it did the job, especially since it was my only meal of the day.
Any way that's day One. Tomorrow I get to build a booth, OK not really, I get to set up a booth. New York and I had a bad time together last time but this time I planned much better and I've set up dinners with friends. This time I plan on leaving New York happy. Oh and my trusty work bag decided to fall apart on me so at sometime tomorrow I have to find a new bag, a little shopping never hurt anyone. Wish me Luck.

NYFW

2011-09-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

Well I'm not in New York, yet (I leave Friday), but I'm staying on top of all the fashion shows and so I figured I'd share my thoughts and a few highlights. First Christian Siriano. We all fell in love with this quirky personality on Project Runway. But I think there have always been at least one quirk we've liked every season , but forgotten quickly after. Christian is making sure the world never forgets his name. Now although his designs certainly weren't ground breaking or really that unique they were lovely and fun. I'd wear a few pieces. These were a few personal favorites.

Photos from The Cut

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Happy Thoughts

2011-09-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!
I just have one Thing to share with you guys today. A Single Happy Thought! A super cool find from Smiling Silver Smith.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Happy Thoughts

2011-09-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks Happy Friday!!
I am so looking forward to the long weekend. And so I felt a Happy Thoughts post was definitely required!

First Happy Birthday To my Best Friend and Father of My Child, Gary!

Bailey's and Bacon Cupcake! SOOO YOU!!!!

Next USC Football Starts Tomorrow and I am SOOOO VERY ready!!!! Fight On!

Taking My daughter to Build-A-Bear to get her Teddies new outfits! I know this sounds corny but it makes her happy and so it makes me Happy.

Sunday Brunch With My Best Gal Pal Crys! Mimosas will be mandatory.

A completely Lazy Monday with no plans and pure relaxation!!!! Oh yeah there is one more thing but I can't let the cat out of bag just yet so I'll wait and share in another post.

Happy Labor Day Weekend everyone. Enjoy!

A Model Eating In a Magazine!!!

2011-08-31T20:21:00.001-07:00

I was going through my usual blog posts and I came across This post on Fashion Gone Rouge. And I LOVED it! It's a Model in Vogue, OK Vogue Brazil, but it's still Vogue and she's eating! So here it is. For your enjoyment.

Shoes On The Brain! AGAIN!!

2011-08-31T16:56:00.001-07:00

Shoes On The Brain! AGAIN!! by accidentalfashionista featuring christian louboutin shoes

MTV VMAs

2011-08-29T20:58:00.001-07:00

In truth I stopped watching this show LONG AGO. But we did a gifting suite for the VMAs and so I thought I'd actually check this year's show out. And I was quickly reminded why I stopped watching this show. Of course there were a few highlights. First I have to admit I didn't watch it live in fact. I recorded it and watched it a day later. There was only one press piece that actually had me wanting to watch the recording, the announcing of Beyonce's baby! Yeah!

Anyway I promise to to rant on too long but this show seemed Phoned in at times. I was weirded out by Lady Gaga's drag show, not because it was drag but because of how she spoke. Even accepting the award in character. And normally I like Gaga. So here's what I'm going to go I'm just going to rant a little and get this over with. Bear with me folks!

The back up dancers were really not that great.

What was Nikky Minaj wearing?!! (did I spell her name right? Who cares.)

Didn't Kim Kardashian get married shouldn't she be on her honeymoon?! Great start!

What was with Justin Bieber's Chains? REALLY?!!

Chris Brown's arial show, whoa.

Little girls doing Britney Spears, NOT COOL!

Katy what's with the Cube?

OK I'm done. Now I can talk about the good things. ADELE! I love Adele! And her performance was moving. That woman has a serious set of Pipes. The tribute to Amy Winehouse was lovely and I thought it was very good that they addressed her drug and alcohol abuse. They didn't pretend she was holy simply because she was dead. Then there was Bruno Mars......YUMMY!

I was very happy to see that there is a hot new trend in the music industry, people who can actually sing. Adele, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and of course Beyonce. It used to be maybe one or two true singers. I'm liking this, good job MTV you may finally be getting it. Or maybe I'm getting ahead of myself.
I guess time will tell but that means I'll have to watch next years show, nope sorry count me out, but thanks for the Laughs!

MAGIC Show and My new iPad

2011-08-28T15:05:00.001-07:00

This Last sales trip to Las Vegas had more free evenings for me then usual. And so I managed to find a great Sushi bar, take a dip in the pool, and I even saw some very interesting characters at the show.
All these photos were taken on my iPhone but edited on my iPad. I'm really loving my apple toys.

Vogue Let Down!

2011-08-27T13:40:00.001-07:00

This past Wednesday I was thrilled to find my coveted September issue of Vogue waiting for me. I ripped that baby open and started to flip though it, but then I realized it had been 67 pages before I found any content. And all I did find was the Table of content. Finally on page 210 I found some text but it was a short summary of what was going to be featured online. The first editorial is on page 376, which is roughly half the book! As we all know the September issue is the biggest issue of the year for Fashion magazines and Vogue holds the record for largest issue, however I'm thinking that title needs to be revoked. When 90% of your book is ads then it feels like a cheat. This issue is supposed to be the new years of Fashion, this is when we take a look at the upcoming trends of the new year and start planning. But this issue is light on the fashion and EXTREMELY heavy on the advertisements. Epic FAIL! Vogue your losing your touch!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

The Word Is Finally Out!!

2011-08-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

Why have I been missing? What could possibly have me so busy that I haven't posted on my beloved blog? Well I can finally show you. As previously mentioned my company has decided to jump into the world of Footwear. And up until now it's been very hush hush. But this past week was the unveiling of the new collection and overall it was a HUGE Success. We got great feedback and even met with several Majors. It looks like Nicole Lee Footwear is going to be great. We even won a little award for our booth. All kinds of photos were taken and I was interviewed for the FN Platform website, I'll post the link once it goes live. So here are a few photos from my trip enjoy! And rest assured I'll get back to writing!

If Money wasn't an Object

2011-08-19T08:31:00.001-07:00

If Money wasn't an Object by accidentalfashionista featuring high heels

Absent

2011-08-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

Hello Readers!
To those of you who have faithfully follow this blog I am sorry for my Lack of posts. Life has been a bit crazy right now. I'm going to be traveling a lot for work from now till 2012. And so when i came across this post on Paper Fashion I had to Share it with you. It's a perfect depiction of my life right now.

I'm working on getting a new Mobile device so that I can more consistently post! Keeping my fingers crossed!!!

Las Vegas

2011-08-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

I just came back from the longest trip ever to Las Vegas. I've been to Vegas several times now for work, never for fun. In fact I've never been in Vegas and had a party night really. I don't feel like I'm missing anything though. Anyway I was in Vegas for another Show and this time it was a much longer trip and a bit of a tense one for me. In fact by second day I found myself crying in a bathroom stall so not the highlight of the trip. I was relying on internet for entertainment but I had a serious road block in that department. Forgive me as I rant it just this really did suck. We stayed at the Hilton in Las Vegas because our show was being held at the Las Vegas Convention Center and the two locations are sort of connected. Well on first day in our hotel I tried to connect to the internet and to my horror the internet was not free!!! In fact it was $15 per laptop per room. Are you kidding me?!!! What was even stranger was we had a large Suite for this trip, not a standard. Also it wasn't just me in the room with a Laptop, our Office assistant had gone on the trip as well and she brought her laptop. So if we wanted internet it would be $30 bucks a day!!! That idea was a no go. I wasn't too upset at this moment though because I knew I would be at the Convention center most of the time and past MAGIC shows I had attended they always had free WiFi for exhibitors. Well I was there for the ASD show (feel free to ignore these show names, unless your in fashion they really don't matter.), and apparently WiFi is not free during the ASD show. But now I was desperate so I figured I would pay for WiFi in the convention center.

$99!!!!!!!!!!!!! A DAY!!!!

I nearly choked on my coffee and actually cursed out loud. Luckily our music was a bit loud and so my foul mouth went unnoticed. I was practically off the grid, the only connection to the rest of the world was my cell phone. I used my phone so much I'm surprised it didn't die more often then it did. Anyway with all that free time what I did do is take goofy photos so here are a few highlights.

If you can't tell I got a bit bored for a while there.

My Arm Party

2011-08-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hello Folks!!! So sorry for my long absence I've been swamped with work and away on a Business trip. And can you believe it but I had no internet. Or better said no free internet anywhere. I'll tell you the story in another post. But today I am sharing another Bloggers Do it Better Assignment. This time it's one trend that I've been all over. The Arm Party!!! A collection of Bangles, friendship bracelets, watches and assorted trinkets all piled together on your wrist. I've been loving this trend because it's allowed to tap into my crafty side and make small pieces that take no time at all.

So here are a few photos of my Arm Parties!

This shot has several pieces I made. The first bangle with Embroidery thread on it, a wrap bracelet, and a wrap around rope piece as well.

I had a huge collection of bangles and I was so happy to use them again.

A simple stacking, my watch was he only large piece and even that's not very big.

Reality Check

2011-07-25T15:51:00.001-07:00

Reality Check by Accidental_Fashionista featuring low shoes

Photo Shoot, Insanity, and a Discovery

2011-07-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a Photo shoot for work. Unfortunately it wasn't as planned as past shoots have been. If I wanted to I could probably write a really good film out of it, that sounds like such an LA thing to say sorry for that. But the truth is I've seen films with less content then my day yesterday. I
only want to share one part of the day with you though.
We hired the models somewhat last minute. But I managed to get two models in time for our two day shoot, one model per day. Model One, I'm going to call her Anna for the purposes of this story. Anna was our Model for yesterday. Anna sensed our time crunch and took advantage. She emailed me the night before the shoot demanding more money. It wasn't a question it was more of a Statement. "You will pay me this much money because you can."
"SAY WHAT?!!! Oh no she didn't!!!"
(As you may remember from my last photo shoot post I had a model no show on me. And so I already had all kinds of hatred towards models and now I'm convinced they're evil.)
I almost had a heart attack. I didn't get her request till 10:44 pm and so getting the new dollar amount approved was going to be tricky if not impossible. I tried our director, but no luck. At 5 am the following morning, the morning of the shoot Our director text me! I was not awake but due to my panic the night before I Slept with my hand on the phone under my pillow, clenching it like a child with their woobie. Safe to say I jumped right out of sleep. Luckily he approved the new price. So we were still on. I get to work as usual, check emails, and give our model a little courtesy call letting her know the price is fine and we'll see her at 9 am. She didn't answer but I left a message and didn't panic at the time. 8:55 comes around and I decided to call her, straight to voicemail. I called again at 9:10 Straight to Voicemail. Finally I call at 9:25 straight to voicemail. I send her a text with calm but stern verbiage, all the awhile plotting how to hunt her down and make her suffer. Finally she calls me back and informs me that her car broke down. This seems to be a favorite story of models, if there are models reading this the jig is up the truth is out and you have to come up with a better story!!!!!!
"Where are you at?"
"Near Dodger Stadium"
"OK hold on we have a passenger Van, we'll pick you up"
That's right we had to pick her up and we still had to get her ready even after that. Again we needed this shoot to happen. After piling everyone in the company van it becomes clear someone will have to take their own car. I won the drawing. We head off in search of our wayward model and when we get to the post my iPhone says she is located I become a little concerned. Yes she was around Dodger stadium, but she failed to mention it was Frog Town. A not so pretty part of LA, also she failed to mention I would be looking for a warehouse. YES I said a warehouse. See for yourself.

Here's the view of the set up to the right of the gate opening I came through:

So the first thing that came to mind was, "This Bi*#$, Partied hard last night at this club and now has us picking her up from the club she passed out in." But no it wasn't a club however it was a Art Gallery/Print Studio/Sculpture studio/Tattoo shop/Artist shelter. It was like walking into another world once I went inside. And the second she gave me the full run down on the joint I instantly fell in love. The Owner Damien, who doesn't live there, has rented out the space and at an EXTREMELY reasonable rate to different artists as a place to create. An artist himself he knows how to speak the language and has been through the struggles that come with following your dreams. It was because of this that he Created The Nomad Gallery. After just minutes I knew we had to shoot there and I started wondering if they had a room for me. It was just that cool. But don't take my Word for it, See for your self.

http://www.nomadlosangeles.com/

They Love Lucha Libre Wrestling, major theme in the gallery. They even host Lucha Libre Wrestling.

This is Coco one of the many four legged tenants of Nomad. Oh yeah and my new best friend, See how she poses for me?

One of Two wrestling Rings they have, This one is used for band performances.

This a hidden gem, but one that shouldn't be so hidden. The owner humbly told me he doesn't have a head for marketing. And So I say to you readers in the LA area check this place out, send them some love and support. We need more places like this in LA. Forget the Hipster joints owned by millionaires who have bought their cool. Help the true Artists thrive!

Terrarium

2011-07-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

I was inspired last week by a craft post, From Fresh Home Ideas. After reading this post i just had to have a terrarium of my Own. My plan was to put it in my office to help as a de-stresser. I stewed on it all Friday and Saturday Morning, and then on our thrifting trip I came across a Better Home and Gardens book on Terrariums. I took it as a sign and Decided I had to make one. Sunday was my big day and initially I thought I would get mini plants like Ivy and Violets, My man gave me a sideways glance when I told him. "Why?", you ask. Well here's the truth I have a black thumb. I have always wanted to be a gardener but I never fully study what I'm trying to grow and it always dies. My father never has to study he plants things and they grow, in fact they usually over grow. My Grandmother and Grandfather have always had lush gardens. My Mother had an office plant grow so large and lush she had to remove it from her office for fear of it taking over the space. Why couldn't I get that Gene?!!

I ignored my gentleman's nay saying and went to Home depot determined to make this terrarium. After thirty minutes of starring at plants I finally asked for some help. This time I was prepared though, I had actually read the full blog post and the terrarium book I had picked up. I knew the supplies I needed and the plants I wanted, problem was I wasn't finding any of it. The kind Garden center employee informed me that they didn't have the majority of the items I wanted and most of the potting materials I had requested only came in Jumbo Size. UGH!!! I had to change my game plan. It almost killed me at the time but the sad truth was I had to go with cacti. They had the materials and a large variety of mini Cacti. Why would this kill me, well as I mentioned earlier my Gent didn't have faith in me and had actually recommended Cactus rather than Ivy and Violets. Either way I made the best of what I had and was still determined to make the best Terrarium ever. And Boy did I ever succeed. Sorry to those out there who have terrariums and think theirs is the best but your wrong, mine is!

Farmer's Markets and Thrift Stores

2011-07-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a very long time since I've written a post. Well I'm about to flood you!!!!

This weekend was a bit of a jam packed weekend filled with local activities. LA was a bit of a ghost town, Carmageddon (one of the busiest freeways in LA was shut down over the weekend and the city went into panic, it was dubbed Carmageddon.) had everyone scared and staying home. Not me, I never use that freeway. And the one thing My Father made sure I learned was the streets of LA and how to get around without using the freeways. Friday after work I started with the Local Farmer's Market. It's been a while since I've actually been able to get to the local Farmer's Market. It's a small Market with only a few vendor's but it's our and we love it.
One of my old High school classmates was actually selling his food there! My Man's Cousin is a staple at these markets singing Elvis on a portable Speaker System. And half the Fruit and Vegetable vendors are Filipino and sell Filipino Produce. There is a vast array of things I don't recognize. You will always see a melange of people at our little Market. It's such a diverse community. It's where contradictions meet. The rebel will share kettle corn with the straight edge. It's just great and I forgot how fun it can be. I also forgot how quickly your money can go when you're there. I had to make my visit short and sweet because I was quickly tapped out, My daughter got all kinds of goodies though.

Saturday I managed to talk my Gent into going to the thrift store with me. In fact I was shock to hear he was excited about it. It's normally not his speed but I was thrilled to have the company. We went to the St. Vincent de Paul in LA. Once again I had forgotten how fun thrifting can be. I have to admit it's been a VERY long time since I had been. My Mother used to take my sisters and I all the time. Back then I always came home with the silliest things, I didn't know how to edit back then. OK so I still need to work on the editing now, but I'm better. I came out with all kinds of goodies including an not so old or used copy of Sense and Sensibility, one of my favorite Jane Austen Novels. It was a great weekend and I think we need to have Carmageddon more often!!!

My little One eyeing some jewelry.

Gorgeous Chillies.

New vendor.

Still don't know what it is

The Strange Veggies, Look like Chillies but aren't!

His Favorite part I think.

My find.

Shoe Therapy

2011-07-18T23:34:00.001-07:00

Shoe Therapy by Accidental_Fashionista featuring leather sandals

Happy Friday!!

2011-07-15T06:59:00.001-07:00

It was a Long week filled with challenges. I was starting to get worried it wouldn't end. Yesterday I got home and had no desire to bother with cooking a dinner or working out. All I wanted was a Cupcake. So I bought two. One is long gone but Today's Happy thought is that I still have the other one!!!! So Today the theme will be.....

"Stay Calm and Eat a Cupcake!!!!"

Summer Days and Nights

2011-07-14T16:34:00.001-07:00

Summer Days and Nights by Accidental_Fashionista featuring high heel pumps

So I thought I'd take time to show you some fun Picks I have for the Summer. Even better is most of these goods are really reasonable!!The earrings are a "If I were rich I would buy" type of thing but a girl can dream!! Enjoy!

Butterfly dress
£24 - m-butterfly.co.uk

Dorothy Perkins print maxi dress
£30 - dorothyperkins.com

TopShop cropped jacket
$100 - topshop.com

Steve Madden gladiator shoes
85 CAD - gravitypope.com

Steve Madden high heel pumps
$130 - heels.com

Bounkit handcrafted earrings
$395 - charmandchain.com

Vintage jewelry
$275 - charmandchain.com

Miss Selfridge floppy hat
£15 - missselfridge.com

CO OP Barneys New York buckle belt
$95 - barneys.com

God Save my Shoes!!!

2011-07-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

So it would seem that Shoe Addiction has taken over the world. Or at least the female part of the world, which we all know is more than half! I can't wait to see this film something tells me it's right up my alley!

INSPIRATIONS

2011-07-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

Just Enjoy!

For the nerd in you! Found Here

got this through an iPhone Wallpaper app. Not sure the source but I love it!

From Notebook of Love probably my new favorite site.

So Sad I won't get to see this in person!

Bloggers do it Better!!!

2011-07-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer:

First forgive me, I'm not a model. I'm actually very goofy in photos. Any time I try to take a photo it tends to end up a little awkward. I'm working on it though. Just like my studies in Fashion I am also trying to work on the right pose for me. My sister and her sorority friends who seem to be naturals at striking a pose have actively been assisting me. Although after these photos I'm seriously considering professional help!! I should change the name of this blog to the Fashion Imposter!

On to the real topic at hand. I chose to part take in a Blogger group called, Bloggers do it Better. It's a fashion movement where real woman bloggers show how they wear trends. No Magazine editors, makeup artists, hair stylists and Photoshop. And no corporate backers pushing certain products. Kristina the author of Pretty Shiny Sparkly started this group and assigns the trend. Bloggers check the trend then post on their blog and then link to hers. It's actually great fun and very interesting to see everyone's spin on fashion. I'm thrilled to be posting my first BDIB post. This assignment was the Maxi Skirt!

I picked up a gorgeous Maxi Skirt at H&M not to long ago and I've been in love ever since. I usually go with simplicity when it comes to this skirt but in this case I was dressing for a Graduation Party with a Fiesta theme, so I had a little fun this time. I'm only 5'6", not short but not very tall and this skirt was definitely built for a tall girl so I have five inch heels on to make up the difference. Girls got to do what a girls got to do. Hope you like! Again be kind I don't photo well.

Vogue Let Down

2011-07-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

Heads up this is going to be a rant. A bit of an angry rant in fact. OK not angry just annoyed. So I hate to admit this but I have always bought my Vogues individually. Initially it was because I didn't always read it but then after a while it became extremely silly since I was picking it up every month, sometime twice a month (one copy to keep the other to rip up for my fashion notebooks). This year I started really looking at expenses and I realized just how much money I was dumping down the toilet on magazines. So I finally jumped on board with long term subscriptions. The final count was five in all and for at least two years. I felt great! I did all my subscriptions online so that it would expedite the process, and at first it seemed to do the trick. But then July rolls in and now Magazines. None, not a single one, and as we all know they were on the stands in Mid to late June. So my happy comfort quickly transformed into anxiousness.
So if you've been reading this blog you know by now that I essentially study the fashion industry. I read all the Fashion Mags and Fashion Blogs trying to stay on top of it all. If I miss a day in this industry it's like missing a week of news in the real world. So not having my Magazines was actually really getting to me. I was two seconds away from buying copies, even though my subscriptions would no doubt show up eventually. I suddenly had a new appreciation of the pain addicts go through during withdraws.

FINALLY Vogue arrived yesterday. I flipped when my man handed me the Magazine. I dropped everything and immediately began to read. But I was quickly upset again!!! If you've already picked up the July Issue you too have seen how flimsy it is. It's got to be the smallest issue I've every seen. Barely any editorials and although I don't need ads it seemed to be very light on the adds as well. I was shocked. It was not my vogue, not the vogue I have loved and cherished. Was everyone on vacation in June and so the July issue was missing pages?

Now vogue doesn't always have to produce a massive book, but let's face it that's been their trend for years now and so I was expecting that. So let's add this all up. First I don't get my issue till the 11th of the month (BOO!) and then it's the lamest issue ever! Vogue you have wounded me! I've been so loyal and this is how you repay me? It's the truth about Santa all over again! It's much better to simply buy the issue individually, you get them earlier and you can see right away if it's going to be a dud. Sure it's 4 bucks more per issue but I'm thinking 4 bucks is cheap in exchange for the lack of grief.

The One that broke my heart. Sorry Emma.

Happy Thoughts!

2011-07-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Folks!

It's been a busy week for me and not a very comfy one so this week all my happy thoughts are comfort related since it would seem I will be home sick all weekend. Not cool, but I plan on making the best out of this situation.

Today is My Little Sister's Birthday so First and Foremost She is my Happiest Thought! Love you Moo Moo!

Sleep!!! I must sleep this weekend. Won't get better without rest!

I have been asked to provide Sangria for a Graduation party this weekend and I have to say I'm looking forward to it. For medicinal Purposes only of course =P

Since I'm going to be home most of the time I plan on making it as comfortable as possible. I made a small brunch for myself last weekend and I think I'll need another this weekend.

But I'm most looking forward to Couch time with my Little Monster.

Fancy Hair

2011-07-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

So the biggest victim of my lack of Hair skill is by far my Daughter. She considers herself a Princess, in fact she relates to Rapunzel. She has very long hair and throws a fit if we even mention cutting it. Her Hair is Magical, and Magical Hair deserves styling worthy of a Princess. I try but my skills are very limited. As I have written before . I keep trying to French Braid her hair and it always looks like a mess. The Only style I can do for her is what I can a Princess ponytail. and there is barely any skill involved in this hairdo.
This morning I was inspired by a Craft Blog on Fish Tail Braiding. And so I tried it. I managed to get all her hair in there but it certainly wasn't perfect. In fact it was rather messy, but she didn't seem to mind and I knew that her Babysitter would redo her hair in a Style she would be proud of.
Our babysitter does my daughters hair in the most elaborate styles. I was always envious. Up until six months ago My daughter barely let me touch her hair let alone style it.The only person allowed to touch it was Amanda her Babysitter. Of course she would only want Amanda, whenever she did her hair it looked like she came straight from modeling in a hair show. I have to step up my game.
The other night I was feeling crafty and so I Made some fancy headbands for my daughter. If I can't style her hair in a fancy way the very least I can do it give her accessories that can do it for me. If my Hair styling skills don't change at least I can rest assured my designs will compensate.

One of My Hair Train wrecks, I've gotten a whole lot Better!!

One of my attempts at French Braiding.

This is a Standard Amanda Hairdo

Another Amanda Basic, This is a boring style for her.

Here is an example of her elaborate work, photos not the best but it's a hair Halo!

An Amanda Style!

This is my Fishtail braid, looked OK for a while but quickly became a mess!

One of the Headband I made her.

This is my Princess Ponytail. The base is the part I consider "The Princess" component.

Summer Flu

2011-07-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

I started feeling that little tingle in my throat on Monday. Tuesday the body aches and Fatigue. Wednesday the cough. And then this morning the blistering fever. Just my luck Flu in the Summer.

Terrible timing but my current lot in life.

Inspired

2011-07-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

The New Mulberry Fall 2011 campaign just launched and it's fantastic!! I want to live in the ethereal world that Shona Heath created for the Shoot. I'm not really one for Foxes but these photos look so warm and inviting that I may have to consider hanging with a Fox. Photos like this make me love Fashion. The moments when the Fashion becomes Art again are when I feel reassured that I'm in the right business. These Beautiful photos are by Tim Walker.

Photos From Fashion Gone Rouge

Happy 4th of July and Centennial!!

2011-07-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day Everyone!!

So Far this weekend has been great! I got in so much needed exercise, Rest, and Got to Celebrate my Community's Centennial. For several months there has been a large banner across the main street of our Community announcing the Centennial Celebration of Eagle Rock, but no dates and not a single mailer sent out as to when and where the celebration would be happening. Well yesterday I found out that there have been celebrations all year long and will be further celebrations. But the Big one was planned yesterday as a joint celebration for Independence day and the Centennial. Eagle Rock Park was the venue. Filled with all kinds of food vendors and organization booths, from the Local Catholic church to the Green Daycare. Live Music and dance performance by several of the local dance studios. But I nearly began to drool over the great food options. They had a few local favorites, Mom and Pop Kettle corn, Gourmet Tamales, Corner Pizzeria, and Crepes. A couple of pleasant surprises were a candied Apple booth and an Aguas Fresca's stand. Can you tell I LOVE food?! Tons of activities and All I saw were the Candied apples and Tamales.
Once the sun finally went down they began the main event. Fireworks! It was great fun and even better is I still have today to celebrate even more!

Aguas Frescas!

See WHY I was so excited about the Food?

Centennial Swag!

Two Bouncers that constantly had children in them.

Happy Thoughts!!

2011-07-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Folks!!

Even better then it being Friday is that this weekend is a long one. I am looking forward to the extra day of rest. No plans for the weekend and I'm thrilled! OK so maybe some swimming, BBQ, and fireworks.

Here are my happy thoughts For the Week.

1. Planning on making cupcakes with my Little Monster and I went in search of fun recipes and projects. This is what I found:

These are Cupcakes!!! Super Cute! Found these fabulous treats here.

2. Fireworks!! Enough said!

3. A little Rest in my New Favorite hang out!

4. Inspiration!!

5.Blogging!! I'm learning more about design and I'm really looking forward to using my new skills.

Huffington

Girl Crush

2011-07-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

Found a great sneak peak on Fashion Gone Rouge today. It was of one of My favorite Screen Gems Anne Hathaway. She will be donning the cover of Harper's Bazaar in August and the photos, shot in London by Alexi Lubomirski, were posted today. It's a MOD theme and she looks stellar. Then again I think she always looks stellar. I've always loved her, I even loved the Princess Diaries. No Judging! Her fashion along with her Roles have simply gotten better and better with every passing year, Like fine wine! I thought she was one of the best Academy Award hosts ever, I thought she held up the entire show. James Franco seemed bored the whole time. Her wardrobe changes that night were great as well. OK so the truth comes out, I may have a girl crush on Anne Hathaway. Anyway enjoy the Photos.

Love that Dress!!!

My Favorite by Far!

Original Post can be found Here.

Moments After Originally posting this, Fashionista Posted this. Guess I'm not the only one.

T-Shirt Heaven

2011-06-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

The Olsen Twin's have come such a LONG way since the days of "Full House". Their Label The Row, took the Fashion industry by storm, much to the surprise of the industries leaders. Their previous Fashion projects have always been geared toward junior markets and Mass sales, rather than Haute Couture. All have been wildly successful though.
Their newest project is StyleMint.com, what is Style Mint about you ask, T-SHIRTS!!!! The Twins Mary-Kate and Ashley have taken on the challenge of making the perfect T-shirt. Halleluiah!!! InStyle released a Sneak peek at the new collection this morning and I must say I'm excited.

On a bit of a side note. We all know the game six degrees of separation. Everyone in the world can be connected withing six connections. I recently met a very nice lady who is a Stylist and Costume Designer with HBO Productions. She used to be the stylist to the Olsen's back when they were still on Full House and for all those films they did. Pretty cool.

First Pick!! Must have!

My other Pick.

T97NADKHAJNM

Too Much

2011-06-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

Came across this video from Nowness today and I had to share.

Lernert & Sander: Natural Beauty on Nowness.com.

The Blue Fashionista

2011-06-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

As a kid I had a few favorite cartoons. All of which have recently found all new life. My little Pony has come back strong along with GI Joes, Strawberry Shortcake, and now the Smurfs!! As you've probably seen this July will be the premiere of the New Smurfs 3D movie. I'm not really interested in seing it unless my daughter asks but so far she hasn't noticed it. Fingers Crossed.
This afternoon I saw on Fashionista that Harper's Bazaar has a piece with Smurfette!!! Harper's Bazaar has a feature on Smurfette dressed in only the best Designer pieces. I went straight to Harper's Bazaar to see with my own eyes. I was stunned. I've seen all kinds of marketing campaigns for all types of films as I'm sure you have, but I think this one takes the cake. I'm not sure if it's Genius or Lunacy. Maybe both! Anyway I had to share.
Smurfette sure did grow up to be a Fashionista, and a VERY well dressed one as well. I'm a little jealous.

Dolce & Gabbana! Seriously?!!!

Lanvin!

Louis Vuitton. Kill me now.

Marc Jacobs

Forever Young

2011-06-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

I was going through my Blog lovin list of "new posts" today when I came across a post from ".....Love Meagan" that hit close to home for me. In Megan's post she wrote about all these high end Children's fashion collections. The children look like grown up models, they look adult. In fact several of the photos she posted as examples had children who were better dressed than I can ever hope to be. It was a bit eery considering how young they had to have been.
I'm a proud Mommy of a VERY tall four year old girl. She looks like she's seven just based on her height and she's a bit of a smarty pants so some times she acts older as well. It's been said on more than one occasion that (because of her height) she could be a model. My stomach kind of twists at the thought. I don't think I want that for her. I think she's beautiful and right now she thinks she's a Princess, I don't want anyone or anything changing that. And regardless of how beautiful I know she is some schmuck out there is bound to tell her otherwise should we ever think of letting her model.
She's my baby right now, OK not my baby but my little girl and I refuse to let that be rushed. I want her to stay my little girl. Meagan made a great point the trend in Children's high fashion is for kids to appear adult. I don't mind my daughter trying on my shoes so she can pretend to be mommy, but I'm not about to buy her High Heels. Kids should be kids. My daughter can pretend all she wants but when we go to the park, or for pizza, or even to the store she is going in her play clothes and she will be dressed as a child should be.

Meagan Thanks for this post!

I thought this was kind of cute actually. Looks like she's playing dress up, at least that's how I'm going to interpret it.

Above and Below are Zara

Not so bad, don't know why this kid needs the Clutch, Watch and Blazer, but the sunglasses Maybe.

This is where it goes to far.

Little girl needs to smile.

The three Above are Witchery

My little girl. Dressed up for Father's Day!!

Lazy Bum!

2011-06-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I barely got out of Bed. I hit the snooze five times before I slowly hauled myself to the Bathroom to start my day. It wasn't pretty. On days like these I tend to give up on dressing well, in fact I'm usually satisfied with just being clothed matching is optional and fashionable isn't even on my radar. I grabbed these cropped jeans and a tank and said "DONE". I finished getting dressed, actually took the time to dry and style my hair since it would be the first time my coworkers would see my new do. Put on rouge and some gloss started making my way to the door when I realized I forgot one key component.

SHOES!!!! I forgot Shoes! ME!! The Shoe Addict hadn't noticed till moments before leaving that I still hadn't put any shoes on. I had left a brand new pair of Aldos out from the night before and so I grabbed those put them on and left. I Wore Sling Back, Peep toed, Platformed Heels , SIX inches HIGH with my Bummy Jeans and ragged Tank.

OH Yeah, I'm a Fashionista alright!

Chopped

2011-06-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

On a Whim I went to the Salon this weekend.
I have a pattern, I try to grow my hair out and then when I'm only 3 inches longer I hack it off and go super short. This is exactly what I did this weekend. My Hair is gone. Considering the amount of hair I had my head is feeling much lighter now.

So The cycle shall begin again. I will try to grow this out and then I will inevitably cut it off. Am I the only woman who does this? I see so many woman with long beautiful hair and I feel jealous. How did they manage that? I can't handle long Hair the amount of time it takes to blow dry alone is insane to me.Where do these ladies find the time? Help, tell me your secrets. I promise I won't cut My hair off if you guys can share your wisdom. Until I'm let into the loop I shall continue my pattern.

Happy Thoughts

2011-06-24T15:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Everyone!!!

I have a Jam Packed weekend planned. Probably won't be posting, so here are a few Happy thoughts I'd like to share.

Celebrating!!!!

Two of My Besties have their Birthdays this weekend. Happy Birthday La Fonda! Happy Birthday Little bit! May all your birthday wishes come true and lets have a drink!

Also My Mother's Birthday is On Monday but her Party is Saturday, so to my mother I wish you a VERY Happy Birthday!! You're the best!

Also this weekend my Sister in Law is Graduating from Grad school with a Degree in Marriage, Family, and child Therapy. She has worked very hard for this and we're all very proud of her!!!!

To Drool Over

Jeffrey Campbell Cutout Oxford

Jeffrey Campbell Skate Shoe

Two shoe designs I came across during work research and fell in Love with. Although both are fabulous I doubt I could actually handle them. So instead I'll dream!

Just For Laughs

Mar Jacobs plays dress up

Came across these photos the other day on Fashionista and almost died from Laughter. Perhaps it will put a smile on your face as well.

Too Calm the Mind

In Between all the birthday Parties I have every intention of sitting and relaxing and Crocheting. I started a lace Scarf yesterday and I plan to have it done before the weekends up!

Good Intentions

2011-06-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my closet today Deciding on my outfit, when I came across a sheer Sequin Tank that I have. Tags still on and NEVER been worn. I looked at the Top and simply thought, "Mom". That Top is one of several pieces of clothing My mother has given me. She does serious shopping excursions and if she happens to come across something she thinks my Sisters or I may like she buys it. My Sisters are very particular about what they wear. One is conservative and looks as though she came straight from a J Crew photo shoot. The other is well too cool for school, she's got an edgy hipster look about her. Then there's me. I'm a wild card I guess. Not sure if I have a set style. I hate to say it but I have followed many trends in my day and so my look can vary with the seasons.
Back to Mom, she bought this unique piece for me because she thought it was pretty and she thought it had to be cool! Unlike my sisters I never say "I don't want it" to my Mom. I always take the piece and find a way to work with it. There was once a pair of Lamb and star print pajama pants, and not when I was five or ten or even 18. No she bought me Lamb and Star pajama pants at age 22. I took them and I wore them, they were kind of comfy actually. That's how Mom and I work.
This sequin tank wasn't a complete wash out, there was potential. And so this morning I decided I was going to wear it. I tried on three outfits, each a variation with this top. Nothing worked. Finally I gave up grabbed a white tank and tailored wide leg jeans and left for work. These pieces were part of the three outfits I had tried to work with. the tank had defeated me.
Sorry Mom, I tried. Anyway the tank is back in my closet, and taunting me once again. I WILL try again. As for my Mom and all her good intentions, I welcome every piece of clothing she gives me and simply see them as a new fashion challenge. She keeps me on my toes!

Love You Mom!

Shoes on the BRAIN!!!!

2011-06-21T17:02:00.000-07:00

I've been spending the last week studying shoes. I love shoes, or at least I did...... No I still do but right now my brain is overloaded with Shoes. I thought I knew everything there was to know about shoes, well OK not everything but I knew plenty. Did I mention I love shoes? I figured my obsession made me an expert. I was wrong! However by the end of this week I will be! Here's the kind of stuff I've been dealing with. First a Basic rundown. Most womens shoes get broken down into the following categories.

Sandals
Heels
Sneakers & Athletic Shoes
Boots
Flats
Clogs & Mules
Loafers
Slipper
Oxfords
Boatshoes
Climbing

Just to aviod giving you the same mental meltdown I have been having I'm only going to bother with one category, Heels. You may think you're getting off easy but The funny thing about the heel category is that ANY and ALL shoes with more the a 1/4 of an inch heel falls in this group as well.
This is where I screamed first!
Let's look at a few stand out types of shoes.

This is a Saddle Shoe! A Cute one at that!

But this is a Spectator! What's a Spectator you ask? I'm still not sure but Thanks to Zappos' Glossary I think I get it.

Spectator-: A shoe design that is characterized by 2 materials, often of different colors or materials, with an edge of the dominant color having a pinking edge exposed, and a perforated design on the toe.; The only thing wrong with this definition is on Zappos they have Spectators that are one color and do not have pinked edges. So once again I'm confused.; This is a Slouch, I had never heard of a Slouch Shoe before but then again I'm not a Ballroom Dancer. The name is a bit contradictory isn't? Oh well.; I was Happy to find out what My favorite type of sandal was called....This is a Toe Ring Sandal. See the loop for your big toe?; This is a Loafer. This was the only style that didn't have me confused and crying! I think I love Loafers now. OK maybe not.; Alright enough with the easy stuff time to tell you about the stuff that had my head reeling. Clogs, Mules, Slides, and Wedges. First off Almost every possible shoe can be a Wedge. It's all in the shape of the heel, the height isn't of consequence at all. Wedges don't like to be segregated they welcome all!; Clogs were pretty Straight forward......; This is a Clog. What makes a Clog? Closed toe, no back, Right? Yeah, No! I won't even bother getting into this, but someday when you feel like it,( Why you would fell like it, I don't know though) take a look at a "Clog" Section and you'll see.

Dadda, Dadda!

2011-06-19T23:11:00.000-07:00

Without my Dad I never would have learned to ride a bike.

Without my Dad I never would have learned to change a tire,check my oil, or deal with an overheated engine.

Without my Dad I never would have become an artist.

Without my Dad I never would have gone into Fashion.

Without my Dad I never would have learned that life isn't fair at times but it's how we handle it that makes us who we are.

The list could go on for days but all I really have to say is.....

Thank You Dad! Happy Fathers Day

June Gloom

2011-06-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

June Gloom is in full bloom here in LA. At first I thought it was kind of nice. Cool days that melt away in the LATE afternoon. However now I'm over it! These foggy, drizzly, and COLD days are not helping me keep my closet organized. Twice a year I do a Wardrobe change out with the Season Changes, it's the only way I can share a closet. I've got piles and piles of Tank tops, shorts, and sundresses in my drawers and closet but most of my long sleeve tops and sweaters are packed in our Shed. I'm working the layer thing as much as possible but I'm starting to look like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. No wise cracks!!!
Growing up in California I am all good with the super dry heat, in fact I kind of thrive in the summer. Years of working as a Swim Instructor helped with that, I don't get too phased by the heat. Cold on the other hand is a different story entirely. These foggy days and Drizzles are affecting me more then I'd like to say. So although it is slightly picturesque how the sun keeps peeking through all the clouds, I'm sick of the clouds and ready to embrace the heat.

The one good thing about June Gloom and rainy days.........I get to wear my Green Rain boots!!!

I love these.

Fashion Icons!-Greta Garbo

2011-06-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

In my attempts to better educate myself in Fashion I thought today I would study the Fashion Elite. I've always loved Audrey Hepburn, CoCo Chanel, and Vivienne Westwood. And all though I knew of Twiggy, Bridgette Bardot, and Edie Sedgewick I was in need of true study! Once I jumped into this topic though I saw that the list could be extremely long. So where to start? There was enough for hundreds of posts thus was born my first Series posts. Here we go!

My First Icon Profile is Greta Garbo. Greta made it possible for woman to be both assertive and Feminine. The queen of method acting had a presence that stopped men it their tracks and made women want to be her. She set fashion trends galore but it's the social change she started that makes her a fashion icon. She redefined the role of woman in film, she was the highest paid woman in America in the 1930's. Although never stated, she exuded the mentality of, "Yes I'm a woman. Yes I'm beautiful, But don't be fooled I could kick your ass if I wanted to". And that's what I love best about her.

So what sort of fashion trends are quintessentially Greta?

Perfect Pout- Lip liner is a must
Work the hair!
Lashes!!! Falsies are a must.
No matter what the outfit is, Be Confident!

That last point was particularly helpful to me today. I just wasn't feeling anything I put on but I sucked it up picked out a LBD and owned it!! Thank You Greta!

I wish every photo of me looked this good.

There's that perfect pout.

Working the Hair.

Dilemma

2011-06-15T06:37:00.000-07:00

How is it that I can stare at my massive closet and additional dresser and say to myself, "I have nothing to wear?!!" I know it's Wednesday, and Wednesdays tend to be rather blah but this morning I just can't get it together. I'm trying to think of a simple and classic ensemble that won't have my coworkers wondering if I dressed in the dark. It's as though my Fashion brain has vacated the building. Do the truly fashionable have these same moments or is this where my true self is rearing it's head? I don't know. But right now I have to get dressed for the day, here's hoping I don't scare small children.

Happy Wednesday Folks!

Lazy Days in Eagle Rock

2011-06-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

I thought it was finally Time I wrote about my neighborhood. Eagle Rock is a small town in the big city. I know thats a contradiction in terms but it's true. It's a small neighborhood tucked between Glendale and Pasadena in the North East Corner of Los Angeles. Most people drive right through without knowing they been in a new neighborhood. I love it for this reason. It's a hidden gem. A family town with great food, fun shops, and plenty of community activities. I grew up in this little town moved away and decided to move right back once I got back to California. I love it here. I walked Eagle Rock, visited my favorite places and snapped a few shots to share with you.

First Stop was at the Four Cafe, the day this place opened was a blessing for me. They have a delicious vegetarian menu. I stopped in this morning to pick up a Ginger Mandarine Soda and a Mexican Spiced Cookie.

Outdoor seating, perfect in the summer!

Comfortable atmosphere inside

Ready Made Salads and Desserts for a quick meal.

Second Stop was the Colorado Wine Company. The owners are the sweetest couple who really changed the feel of the neighborhood when they opened up this shop. We picked up two bottles on our walk.

I popped in to my hair salon, Double O, because I just love the decor the ladies have in there. Not only do they do GREAT hair but they've made the experience unique and fun with this great decor.

For Lunch we stopped at Lemon Grass, Great for vegetarians and Meat eaters like. I had the Vermicelli and Shredded Tofu and my fellow explorer had Chicken. They also have a full menu of Pho. Yum!

Chowing Down!

I think we Liked it.

Next we walked the residential streets where I snapped a few shots of the homes. This is where you can find all kinds of character in Eagle Rock.

Average Scene on an Eagle Rock Street

This is my dream house. And actual Castle in our little neighborhood. It's rumored Matt Damon and Ben Affleck once lived in this house but I don't know for sure. One can dream though.

Lions are a bit much, but we've grown to love them.

I picked these Olives up from The Eagle Rock Italian Bakery the day before.

Olives from Italian Bakery, Coconut meringues from Ruby's Bakery, Mexican Spiced Cookie from Four Cafe, and wines from the Colorado Wine Bar.

End to a Perfect Day.

Catch Up!

2011-06-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

Once a month I try to have girls Night with my former Coworker and catch up on life. However recently life has been a bit chaotic for the both of us and we have gone two whole months without a night out. We were way over due. Since we both work in LA but live on opposite sides of the city we try to pick places in Downtown close to our Offices. This time we tried a new place called Botegga Louie. I was sold after I saw photos on Yelp and saw that they made macaroons. Of course during our girl's Night we also require a cocktail and so I was thrilled to see they had a full bar as well. Parking was tricky, we both found two different lots in opposite directions but with reasonable prices.
We arrived early and a good thing too because it was packed by the time we got our food. The cocktails were decent, but we tend to keep it simple, Vodka Soda for us. The food was delicious though. I had a Caresse salad with real Mozzarella and an order of Portabello fries. The Fries were out of this world, I'd never tried anything like these and the sauce they came with was matched perfectly. So we ate and we gabbed and finally it was too crowded and noisy to stay so we headed over to the dessert counter to pick up a few treats before we left. As you can see I enjoyed them.
No matter where we meet it's always great to see my friend, but the food and desserts just added that cherry on top a great Sundae.