Jennifer the Gemini

Siiiiiiiiiiiick

2011-02-25T10:53:00.001-06:00

With all the traveling I've been doing, I was bound to catch some kind of bug. I've been sick since returning from my vacation in Florida. Luckily it looks like it's just a flu of some sort so I should be back on my feet by the end of the weekend.

I'll be posting the last of my 30 for 30 remix outfits as soon as I can get out of bed for longer than an hour at a time.

Until then, looky what I won:

Rosette Trio Necklace from Magpie Lovely

I can't wait to pair it with my plain white t-shirts for a fun pop of statement necklace!

30 for 30: Day 17

2011-02-20T11:30:00.004-06:00

If it looks like I am sleepy in this picture, there's a very simple reason why: I am.

This week I worked a full extra day (8 hours) of overtime. While I don't mind the extra moola, I do mind the sleep I've been missing and the sanity I seem to have misplaced.

By the time you read this, though, I will be in Florida on vacation! Yay, vacation! Just in the nick of time! I'll catch back up with you on Wednesday!

30 for 30: Day 16

2011-02-19T11:30:00.003-06:00

A jacket over a wrap? Ordinarily I wouldn't do this, but...

...desperate times call for desperate measures. And, friends, I am getting desperate.

I really need to find a better spot for pictures. This one is not doing my shoes justice.

Browsing

2011-02-18T16:18:00.000-06:00

So I know I'm not supposed to buy anything while I'm doing the 30 for 30 challenge, but that doesn't mean I can't (browser) window shop... I hope! Because I've got my eyes on quite a few items I wish I could add to my list:

Gap Denim shirt (dark wash)

Gap Chambray shirt

Like one of these shirts from Gap. I've been meaning to add a chambray or denim button-down to my wardrobe for awhile now because they're so versatile and always in style. These are pretty nicely priced right now thanks to a sale. Must. Restrain. Self.

Banana Republic is KILLING IT in the accessories department for me lately. Want, want, want, want:

Rondelle bead earring

Pinball necklace

Lahaska
criss-cross wedge

Sandpiper
strands necklace

And, seriously, how adorbs is this ruffly white shirt from Ann Taylor Loft? It's just the right amount of business-meets-pleasure, I think:

I thought that writing all this would be therapeutic and make me stop wanting to rush out right now and buy things. Turns out, no.

Oh well. Hope ya'll have a fantastic weekend! And if you're a remixer... try to stay away from the malls! There's bound to be TONS of President's Day sales that will be way too tempting!

30 for 30: Day 15

2011-02-18T11:30:00.001-06:00

We used to have this thing at my work called "Sweater Vest Thursdays" and when I started working there I had no idea what a sweater vest was, much less owned one. But I wanted to fit in and join the fun on Thursdays so I would do my best to find things I could pass off as a sweater vest. Such as:

The challenge is starting to get hard. I am finding myself standing in my closet in the mornings just staring at my 30 pieces, willing them to put themselves together into outfits for me. Also, I am afraid that I did not take my vacation to FLORIDA into account when I picked my 30 items. I might be sweating to death on vacation.

30 for 30: Day 14

2011-02-17T11:12:00.000-06:00

Feeling kinda moody and blah, but this was the day I decided to whip out my last "new" item in the list hoping it would pull me out of my funk.

It didn't.

It's okay, though, because I have a vacation coming up this weekend! No funk allowed in Florida!

I am having such a fun time looking through the blogs of my fellow remixers! You guys are so creative and inspirational. Also, I wish I could raid all of your closets.

30 for 30: Day 13

2011-02-16T11:31:00.000-06:00

So I actually bought the printed tie-neck top and the lilac v-neck sweater on clearance from Gap at the same time... and when I was in the dressing room just trying to see if they both fit I put the sweater over the top willy-nilly like so:

And I thought... 'Jennifer, you are a GENIUS.' It's like 3 shirts now. Yep. 1 + 1 = 3.

So. Like I said. Genius.

Speaking of genius, I LOVE Latoya's pattern mixing in this outfit. I rarely mix patterns, so her outfit is an inspiration for sure.

30 for 30: Day 11 & 12

2011-02-15T11:25:00.002-06:00

After this post I have officially worn all but one piece of clothing from my 30. I still haven't quite decided how I want to style that last piece.

Maybe I'm holding out on wearing it because it's my last "new" item. When I buy new clothes, I like to "save" them to wear on a day when I'm doing something special. I know a lot of people like to wear new clothes right away, but I feel like I'm doing my new purchase a disservice by "wasting" it on a day when nobody will care or notice it. I don't know... do you guys do that? Wear new clothes right away or save them for a special day?

I love this black and white shrug. It's made with yarn that's both black and white, so it turns out looking like this interesting grey color. I think it picks up tones of whatever color you wear it with. The necklace is from NY&Co. and was a gift from one of my friends. I think my friends have better taste in jewelry than I do.

Can't go wrong with a cowl-neck. With a neck this stretchy, I'll probably wear this as an off-the-shoulder sweater when it gets a little less chilly.

Also, as soon as I am allowed to shop again I'm picking up a pair of super colorful tights so I can do something like Brittney did with hers. What a fun way to brighten up the winter neutral blahs!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T15:44:00.004-06:00

I've always loved Valentine's Day, and this year is no different despite my 'non-committed' relationship status. I did have a little fun with my valentines this year, though. I am giving my single girlfriends this card from studiostellamarina:

Adorable, no? Here's to loving and being loved! <3

30for30: Day 9 & 10

2011-02-14T11:25:00.000-06:00

I'm running behind! How is it almost halfway through the month of February and I'm only on Day 10 of this challenge? The math just isn't working.

When you've got an ample busom, sometimes ruffle-y shirts like this make your front side look like Dolly Parton's, but I've found that adding a busy pattern into the mix and layering the ruffles under something solid helps to tone it down. And I take every excuse I can get to wear this amazing puffer vest from Gap because it's warm and such a nice color.

May I just say how much I enjoyed pairing a tough (faux) leather motorcycle jacket with a dainty lilac sweater? If you have these two things in your closet... you might want to give it a whirl. It's such a fun juxtaposition.

30 for 30: Day 8

2011-02-12T10:45:00.000-06:00

More purple! This deep purple sweater dress is so purple it's almost red and the Gap leggings are so dark purple they're almost blue. You might say this outfit is so purple it's almost not purple.

Or you might not... say that.

Spring hair

2011-02-11T16:30:00.001-06:00

I've been having fun learning new and quick! ways to do my hair in the morning. My favorite one lately is this bird's nest top knot by Andrea's Choice.

She makes it super simple to emulate and I find this is even great for those mornings when you wake up and don't have time to wash your hair since the messier it is the better it looks.

Give it a shot! If I can do it, ANYONE can do it because I'm hair stupid.

30 for 30: Day 7

2011-02-11T11:45:00.004-06:00

I just realized that 5 of my 30 things are purple. And I wish it was more! I would love to add a pair of dark purple suede heels to my shoe collection.

This whole outfit was brought to me by Gap. The printed tie-neck top is versatile enough to be a staple in both my winter and summer wardrobe. It's on sale and so, so flattering.

30 for 30: Day 6

2011-02-10T12:15:00.001-06:00

I think every woman should own a classic black and white striped shirt. This one is absolutely my go-to top when I'm trying to run out the door but still look put together. I layered it today beneath a green military jacket for some warmth in my chilly office.

The necklace and military jacket are from Charlotte Russe. The black and white striped top and jeans are from Gap.

I am going to try to make sure my future pictures include shoes. I promise I'm wearing the ones in my list!

30 for 30: Day 5

2011-02-09T22:44:00.000-06:00

This green v-neck that I bought from Old Navy last season was an impulse buy. I was running through the store, pulling clearance things off the rack and this shirt was only $4. I thought, 'A v-neck in my size that's only $4?! That never happens!' and bought it without giving it a second thought. My second thought, had I had one, should've been, 'Oh, but it's a weird green bean color... what on Earth will you pair with that?'

Just so happens a couple months later I bought this brown and white striped cardigan from Charlotte Russe for the same exact reason: It was $4 and my size.

Both of these items are weird to me because I like them alone... but I never know what to wear with them. So I put them in this remix challenge thinking I would force myself to figure out what they go with.

One morning after staring at my 30 items for a good long 30 minutes, I finally figured it out. Wouldn't you know it... they go with EACH OTHER.

Retail works in mysterious ways.

30 for 30: Day 3 & 4

2011-02-08T17:03:00.000-06:00

The weekend I think is going to prove the most difficult for me because I don't often know what the night will hold. I could be going out for drinks or I could be staying in and cuddling with my pup and those two occasions call for markedly different costumes. But, I will do my best!

Below are Friday & Saturday:

Day 3's challenge was the black dress from J. Crew that I've actually only worn ONCE before. It doesn't fit me in the top part yet (gotta get it tailored) and it's rather sheer, so I had to wear black tights beneath it in order to not get frostbite. Probably not my best winter remix challenge option. Noted.

Also, you can't see them very well in the picture, but the animal print flats were a fun pop of unexpected pattern and color in the outfit.

Day 4's outfit was straight jeans from Gap tucked into some pre-loved cowboy boots and an old Charlotte Russe shawl-collared sweater. I actually went downtown on Saturday and this bold sweater proved to be both flattering AND warm. Also, wearing cowboy boots in downtown Nashville is usually a big no-no for me (don't want to look like a tourist!), but rules are meant to be broken, yeah?

What do you think so far?

30 for 30: Day 2

2011-02-03T16:58:00.003-06:00

Let's see how long I can keep it up with the daily posting.

I got a lot of compliments on my outfit today. I'm really loving this challenge because it makes getting dressed in the morning so easy! I wonder if I should just donate everything in my closet and keep only these 30 things!

... nah.

This is a mish mash of pieces I would've NEVER put together otherwise, but I really love the result. See for yourself:

Light brown-ish cardigan is from Old Navy, purple tank is from Gap and black skinny cords are from Old Navy. The wedge heels are ooooold ones I've had forever and the necklace is a beautiful bauble I picked up from some tiny shop in Paris (and, yes, I LOVE saying that!)

I was inspired today by Jean over at Faded Old Jeans, who layered a hooded sweatshirt under her black leather jacket for a really cool look... that's probably also very warm. Brrrr!

30 for 30: Day 1

2011-02-02T17:08:00.002-06:00

So technically I didn't take a picture of Day 1... haha... already failing the challenge on Day 1. I'll make up for it somehow. Ya'll keep me honest.

Day 1 was Gap boot cut jeans, Gap argyle sweater, New York & Co. teal tank and the camel boots from Alloy. I brought the camel color up to the top with this cute feather charm necklace.

Groundhog Day and I didn't see my shadow, either! Hopefully spring doesn't come too soon... I've still got 28 days of sweaters coming up!

During this whole operation, I'm also going to try to get inspired from other remixers. Today, I was really loving what Evan did over at A Nerd Like Me. The color combo is lovely and rolling sleeves always makes for a cute, tailored look.

30 for 30: The List

2011-02-01T21:16:00.000-06:00

I always say, "That which doesn't kill us makes us stronger," but I had never put this adage to the test. This month, though, I'm participating in Kendi Everyday's 30 for 30 Challenge. If you've never heard of this before, the gist is that you wear only 30 items from your wardrobe for 30 days. It's supposed to make you remix the items you already have in your closet, making you and your wardrobe stronger...

I've never participated in this challenge before, so I'm excited to see how far I can stretch my items.

So, without further ado, here are the 30 items I will be wearing this month:

Long black maxi dress
Burgundy sweater dress
Purple and black checkered tank
Deep purple tank
Teal tank

Beige puffer vest
Military Green jacket
Black vest
Brown/White striped jacket
Black leather motorcycle jacket
Black/White sweater jacket

Teal/Yellow checkered collar & ruffle-front button-down
Cerulean cowl neck sweater
Oatmeal cowl neck sweater
Pumpkin shawl neck sweater
Violet sweater

Brown cardigan
Grey & white argyle cardigan
Green long-sleeve t-shirt
Dark purple long-sleeve t-shirt
White and black stripe long-sleeve t-shirt

Medium-wash bootcut jeans
Dark-wash trouser jeans
Black corduroy skinnies
Dark-wash straight jeans

Black wedge heels
Black mary jane flats
Animal print flats
Dark brown cowboy boots
Camel knee-high boots

If you're wondering where I got any of these items, ask in the comments!

Oh yeah, there's one more stipulation to Kendi's challenge: NO SHOPPING. That's fine by me, though, as I had already deemed this month "Frugal February" in my effort to reduce some of my December Debt.

If you'd like to see more people who are up to the challenge, Kendi's blog has a list of all the remixers. Good luck to them and to me!

Research Result: Displaying Craspedia

2010-06-10T14:05:00.000-05:00

Wow, so that took about.... two weeks! Where does the time go...

Anyway, I just wanted to update on the results of my research on craspedia display options. I ended up going with the 3 craspedia bulbs and 2 sprigs of grass. Here was my inspiration:

And here is what I ended up with!

The framed black-and-white picture is actually a card that my boyfriend gave me a long time ago. I really like it framed -- a free sentimental keepsake!

Research Roundup: Displaying Craspedia

2010-05-26T14:19:00.002-05:00

You've probably seen them on many a home blog, but you may still be stumped as to what in the world those little yellow bulbs are.

These little orbs of sunshine are called Craspedia, but more commonly referred to as "billy balls" and less commonly known as "woollyheads." No matter what you call them, they are a radiant shade of yellow and super easy to take care of seeing as how they are usually dried.

I picked up a group of three of these babies from PigeonToeCeramics on Etsy awhile back but still hadn't been able to figure out exactly how I wanted to display them. As always, it just took a little bit of inspiration research.

I found a bunch of pictures of vases with many, many, many of them lumped together:

Picture from Salt Harbor Designs

Picture borrowed from Bespoke Uprising

Original picture by floresdelsol on Flickr

While I would love to have a giant vase full of these, I don't have lots and lots and lots of Craspedia. After some digging, I did eventually find some arrangements that used 10 or less:

From a Design*Sponge article "diy project: cocktail shaker + coffee tin arrangements"

From Modern Day Floral

I really dig the one with the whisps of long, tall grass. I think that's the one for me!

All else fails, these fabric billy balls are pretty cool too!

Original picture by natalienerksa on Flickr

Steal it: Urban Outfitters Jet Set Storage Bench

2010-05-24T13:33:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my friend Jennifer for tipping me off on this steal!

I recently linked to the Urban Outfitters Jet Set Storage Bench in Sage Tweed for my bedroom moodboard.

This versatile bench could play many roles in your home: as a bench, as storage and also as an ottoman! However, if the price tag has got you biting your fingernails, JCPenney's 2 Compartment Storage Bench is a look-alike in a much more easy-to-swallow $99.99!

Plus, there are always scores of JCPenney coupons if you know where to look...

Now that is a steal!

Bedroom moodboarding

2010-05-19T18:05:00.002-05:00

So, as I slowly but surely purchase all the touches for the living room/office moodboard, that I posted earlier this week, I have put the finishing touches on what I have come up with for the bedroom.

I want my bedroom to feel like a tropical island. I want crisp greens that remind you of palm fronds and grapes. I want soothing blues that make you think of the ocean and pops of white reminiscent of a capped wave. I want natural textures and neutral colors that will make me think of a sandy beach somewhere.

I don't know that I completely encapsulated all that in this mood board, but I do like it. For now.

Starting at the top left, going clockwise:

Untitled (Let's Get Lost) print - $50, by Shaun Sundholm from 20x200.com
Lilting Leaves Curtain - $208, from Anthropologie
Kvart spotlight - $6.99 each, from Ikea
Mongstad mirror - $99.99, from Ikea
Optic Sea Glass Table Lamp - $89.95, from Crate & Barrel
Malm nightstand - $49.99, from Ikea
Malm bed - $199, from Ikea
Silhouette artwork - $15 for 3 Ikea Ribba frames
Jet Set Storage Bench in Sage Tweed - $240, from Urban Outfitters
Black and white pillowcases - $20 each, from Target
White pleat pillow - $19.99, from Target (Currently not on Website. Similar)
Green Home Chrysanthemum Quilt - $69, from Target
Tangier pillow - $24.99, from DwellStudio for Target
Jade sheet set - $119, from Crate & Barrel

(bolded items are things I already have...)

Some of the things here are pretty pricey... like those curtains and that lamp. I'll be on the lookout for cheaper alternatives.

So, what do you think of my bedroom?

I'm positive!

2010-05-17T17:21:00.000-05:00

I'm no Stuart Smalley, but it is nice to be reminded that you are good enough and smart enough and doggone it people like you!

Of course, you don't need Mr. Smalley's book on your coffee table to get this kind of daily affirmation. Here are some pick-me-ups that are pretty enough to be out on display!

First up, the beautiful art of vol25's shop on Etsy, a unique blend of graphic design and collage. The saying on this print should make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside:

The next print is by Dylan Fareed. Even though the artist made this print after a break-up, I think the affirmation transcends relationships. It actually makes me think of my friends and how good I feel when we are together!

You will find quite an assortment of feel-good prints at laurageorge's Etsy shop, my favorite of which is this print. This affirmation is something I think everyone needs to hear every once in awhile, even if it's not entirely true! You can also find a 4-pack of adorable prints in the same theme here.

The next print is by artzink and is a reminder to do quite possibly the hardest thing in the world:

If that $40 price tag is hard to swallow, I imagine it wouldn't be hard to make something like it in true DIY fashion. Maybe change up the message to something that makes you smile, like "just keep swimming" from Finding Nemo!

Another of my favorite Etsy artists, theloveshop, makes the list with this modern and to-the-point print:

I'm sure I'm not the only one who needs a little pick-me-up when faced with the morning mirror. This fun vinyl decal can be stuck to your mirror to give all your days a fairy tale ending -- or, in my case, beginning!

And, of course, this list would not be complete without the effortless "Keep Calm" print:

No matter what the art you choose says about you, make sure it means and says a lot to you!

Mood Boarding

2010-05-14T17:11:00.003-05:00

I recently moved into a new apartment after taking a week-long vacation (that's what's been keeping me so busy lately!), so my mind has been obsessed with making this unfamiliar place feel a little more like home.

It's not very big, just a 1 bedroom/1 bath, so I don't have to worry about filling a bunch of empty spaces with furniture. What I do have to worry about is a lack of storage space! My bedroom closet is VERY big (the biggest closet I have ever had, in fact!), but that's really the only closet in the space. So my furniture choices must be BIG on storage.

I'm also trying to buy furniture that's flexible enough to work for me 5-10 years down the road. I hate the thought of buying all this furniture only to get rid of it when the time comes to move into a house or another apartment. So the furniture needs to be neutral in color and easy to re-purpose.

So, without further ado, here is the mood board I have created for my living room / office.

And here is a break down of the pieces, going from the couch counter-clockwise:
Couch - $300, Pier 1 from Craigslist
Green pillow - $24, from Urban Outfitters
Zebra pillow - $40, from Etsy seller MiCasaBella
Yellow pillow - $24.99, from Target (Cotton Velvet Decorative Pillow)
Storage ottoman - $79.99, from Target
BRANÄS basket, Expedit drawer and door - $5.99, $30, $25, from Ikea
Library Office Storage Boxes & Magazine file - $11.99 each
Expedit TV storage unit - $229, from Ikea
Student desk - $149.99, from Overstock.com (supposed to look like expensive West Elm version)
Bamboo blinds - ~$40, from Wal-Mart
Billy Bookcase - $69.99, from Ikea

(bolded items are things I already have... not much, huh?)

Some things:

I am worried about the large Ikea units being stable on my apartment's plush carpet (especially since I'm trying not to drill holes in the wall of my rental).
I don't like how expensive that zebra pillow is, but I'm convinced I can find a lumbar pillow that will work for less.
I feel like I'm severely lacking in color, but I'm hoping accessories like art and whatnot will do the trick.
I don't know if I will be able to replace the bland white blinds in my apartment with these bamboo beauties.

Anyway, I would love to hear some feedback and opinions!

Local window shopping: Retropolitan

2010-04-01T10:34:00.000-05:00

Nestled in the interior design office of Retropolitan lives scenes of my dream home. Each time I walk by this storefront, I want to go inside, plop down in one of their beautiful chairs and never leave.

Here, my dream bathroom/entryway/wherever mirror:

...and I love those little red birds beside it too.

And here, my future teenage daughter's room:

Because surely she'll have the same style and taste as me... and if not I could always just steal those pillows for my dream bedroom. Don't they look super soft and squishy?

If you live in the Nashville area and you want to see for yourself, Retropolitan is located at 1813 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212 [google map].

And, just for kicks, two more for your drooling pleasure:

Yum

2010-03-24T11:09:00.001-05:00

Orla Kiely on sale at Gilt Fuse today.

Get it while it's there.

Oh, and if you don't already have your free membership -- here ya go!

Less than $30

2010-03-18T18:14:00.001-05:00

If you've decided to put your tax refund back into the economy (which is just a fancy way of saying you're going shoppin'!), I really like the idea of getting the most for your money by buying beautiful things that -- for whatever reason -- don't cost a lot! Some ideas I've got my eye on:

Now that the seasons are finally starting to change, it's so tempting to try to leave the house without a coat. For $26, this Karmaloop scarf can keep you looking lovely and warm.

Can you tell I am excited for warm weather? But even if I weren't lusting for summer nights... these Urban Outfitters Deux Tone Twist Sandals are versatile and only $28.

Loving this Fossil Yellow Braid bracelet. And only $28? Yes, ma'am.

One project down...

2010-03-12T10:21:00.002-06:00

As I'm sure most of you do, I have a miles-long list of projects I would like to complete around the house.

Last night, I got to check something off the list! I've had this project linked on the sidebar for awhile, but it's something I had planned to do even before I happened upon Caitlin Wilson's silhouette wall tutorial.

Her stunning examples just prodded me to get it done faster. And I couldn't be happier with the result:

The bed frame is Ikea MALM in birch veneer
The lamps are Ikea Kvart
The bedspread and pillows are from Target
The frames are Ikea Ribba
The puppy is not for sale. Not today, anyway. :)

Would you wear: Mummy bandage wrap?

2010-03-11T13:15:00.001-06:00

So it's not really mummy wrap, but that's all I could think of when I saw this Satin Panel Tube Dress from Arden B:

Despite my mocking, I bet it actually does look pretty good once on, what with the diagonal lines and the curve-hugging silhouette. Still, I had fun searching for "bandage" wear and couldn't help myself when it came to naming this look:

"Dead" sexy

More Wet Seal...

New Old Navy

2010-03-09T17:54:00.000-06:00

I took a trip to Old Navy this weekend and picked up a LOT more than I was expecting to. I just couldn't help myself! There was so much there that was versatile and flattering and priced so well that I feel no buyer's remorse. In fact, the only remorse I do feel is not buying the rest of the pieces to make these outfits I created today:

There is nothing I don't absolutely adore about this outfit! I especially love the gray stripes paired with the yellow necklace since that color combo makes me swoon. I picked up the chinchilla cardigan, but didn't see the tank, sandals or necklace at the store I was in.

I love how the swoop of the bottom of the shrug sweater mimics the swoop of the pocket buttons on the pants. And how the navy horizontal stripes and sailor pants scream NAUTICAL THEME, but the green sweater and bauble necklace shush it down a bit. I didn't buy any of these pieces, but it might be hard to resist.

I bought this dress and wrestled with whether or not to buy the jean jacket. I ultimately decided to try to find one for cheaper at a thrift store. Overall I love the different pops of yellow in this outfit and this dress -- though it doesn't look it -- is so forgiving.

Cycle Up!

2010-03-08T14:00:00.003-06:00

I've featured one or two upcycled items on here before, but I am becoming more and more drawn to the idea of buying more things that were created from other things. Might as well, right? Better it get used again than sitting in a landfill somewhere.

Upcycling isn't just soda tab bracelets and Capri-Sun purses anymore, though you can certainly still find those things should you be interested. People are really starting to think outside the box when it comes to repurposing materials.

For instance, I love this bracelet made from 2-liter soda bottles. It's really stunning! Makes you kinda want to keep your 2-liters and try to make one yourself!

Instead of shelling out $10 at Target for yet another notebook to fill and toss, why not order a notebook made from paint swathces! She also has blue and red available if yellow's not your color.

I usually try to wrap gifts in paper I already have lying around, so bows are not really a staple for me when it comes to gift wrapping. But they might become one since I learned of all the different ways you can upcycle paper into bows. I love the idea of making my own bows out of magazine pages, but my new favorite has to be the film reel bow! This particular bow is made from a film trailer reel of the Dungeons and Dragons movie:

And I've always loved the idea of stocking my kitchen cabinets with upcycled glassware from YAVA Glass.

Just goes to show that one woman's trash can be another woman's elegant and beautiful treasure.

Inspired by: The Oscars

2010-03-07T20:46:00.000-06:00

Easily my three favorites of the night:

Rachel McAdams at the 2010 Oscars

Elizabeth Banks at the 2010 Oscars

Cameron Diaz at the 2010 Oscars

I also thought Penelope Cruz and Demi Moore weren't bad, but something was missing. Overall, though, kind of a boring ceremony. Nothing really made me gasp.

Except, of course, Charlize Theron's oddly-placed roses:

Charlize Theron at the 2010 Oscars

All images from fabsugar.com.

Surviving Friday

2010-03-05T15:58:00.000-06:00

I like to treat myself on Fridays. Kind of like a self-pep talk. You're almost there! Just a couple more hours and you're free for 2 whole days!

le sigh.

I usually treat myself with a strawberry margarita or five during lunch. But guess who has two thumbs and forgot her wallet at home!

Yeah. So today I am treating myself by listening to Maria Bamford. Have you heard of her? She is a comedian who can really only be described as silly. And I enjoy her. Probably too much if you ask the poor coworkers forced to listen to me randomly laugh throughout the day.

Anyway, I thought I'd share the silliness. People very rarely seize the chance to be silly.

For your Friday, treat yourself to some completely out-of-context quotes from my favorites (or listen by clicking on them!):

"TEMP WANT CAKE!"

"Question #1: If Maria works as a comedian for $100 a week, but spends $20 a day on hair scrunchies, how many years will it take for her to pay off a Taco Bell Gordita she bought in 1992?"

"The Baby Jesus is leaving you messages? You better call him back..."

"I gotta leave early on Friday... I got a doctor's appointment... with a pitcher of margaritas... and my primary physician, Dr. Feelgood"

Have a happy weekend, folks!

And little man, little Lola wants you

2010-03-04T18:04:00.000-06:00

Ever since my wonderful boyfriend got me a Canon Digital Rebel Xsi for Christmas, I have been on the hunt for a camera bag. You may remember me drooling over Bankgrrl's camera bag on Etsy, but her shop's been sold out for a while now. At first I kicked myself for waiting to buy the bag... but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave me time to really think about what I wanted in a camera bag.

No black, bland, manly and boring bags that scream "I have tons of expensive gear in me!"
Must have compartmentalized sections, bonus if they're removable and customizable
Needs a long strap so bag can be worn messenger-style, bonus if it also has shoulder straps
Needs pockets for batteries, memory cards, keys, wallet, etc

The big minus for Bankgrrl's bag is that it's a tote with no chance of wearing it messenger-style. Not to be easily dismayed, I emailed Bankgrrl to see if she had a messenger-style bag in the wings. Here was her response:

The camera bag has shoulder straps, but no long strap. I'll be designing a new messenger style bag soon as well as one with a longer strap, but I can't say when those will be ready.

-ketti

So, with my list of demands ready, I fumbled around the Internet looking for a camera bag that could satisfy my needs. Luckily, it didn't take me long to discover Ephiphanie bags. And Lola:

And don't worry! She has shoulder straps, they're just not in this picture. Trust me, she's everything I wanted! I can't wait for her to get to me!

---

Anyone interested in picking up Lola (or one of her sisters, Belle and Ginger) should do so before the end of this month. Why? Because Epiphanie is giving away a brand new Canon 5D Mark II or $2500 Southwest Airlines gift certificate. You can do any number of things to enter, like donate to charity or sign up for her mailing list, but you get 10 entries just for picking up one of her awesome camera bags before the end of March! It's a win-win! Check out the Epiphanie Blog for more details.

Gotcha!

2010-03-02T22:53:00.000-06:00

So, do you remember my crush on that Ikea lamp that was sold out?

Yeah, me neither. This baby totally had me at HELLO $25!!

While it's not really $15 like it's being advertised on Walmart's Hometrends main page, when paired with a shade I found on clearance at Target for $7, the grand total for this lamp comes in at $32... $8 less than the Ikea one! And that's not even counting the fact that I didn't have to drive out of the state to get it. Walmart.com shipped it to my local store with their "site-to-store" shipping for free. The only drawback was that I had to go into Walmart to get it*, but now that it's home and looking fabulous in my bedroom I'd say it was worth the headache.

*A word about Walmart: I had been boycotting the company for years simply because it is not a pleasure to shop there and why spend money in a place that I hate to go? In 2010, I decided to give the company another shot at winning my business. I have since made two big purchases and the verdict so far? Yup, still hate going there. I may just pay the extra money next time to get it shipped directly to me and forego the headache of interacting with the Wal-People.

Valentime's Day

2010-02-14T14:10:00.000-06:00

There's a mushy gushy heart-throbby guest post written by yours truly over on my friend Melissa's blog, Hot Culture. It includes some unconventional ways to spend time with your Valentine today, including two ideas that won't cost you a penny.

My man and I are playing it low-key this year because of some recent unavoidable emergency expenditures. Nevertheless we still plan to make it a special day by going out to dinner. Not to mention, Brandon was a dear and sent flowers and chocolate to my work on Friday and, unbeknowst to my honey, I have scheduled a couple's massage for the last weekend in February. We said we wouldn't buy gifts, but... in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day mayhem, we get so few reminders to cherish what we've been blessed with.

Happy Valentime's Day everyone!

Teased...

2010-02-12T19:39:00.000-06:00

I hate when I think I've FINALLY found the ONE THING I was looking for... the ONE THING I need to complete some project...

...only to discover after completely falling head over heels in love with it that the item is completely out of stock. Nowhere to be found. Unless, of course, I want to pay triple the price or fly across the country.

I've been searching for an olive green tall-ish lamp at an affordable price that was also curvy and hollow. Those are some really specific demands, right?

I thought so, too. Up until I found the LJUSÅS SALBO lamp from Ikea. I do a couple backflips out of my desk chair, pump my fists in the air, scream YES!!! about 30 times at the top of my lungs and then...

... just out of curiosity, because this is too good to be true, I check the stock availability.*

Sold out at the store in Ohio. That's okay, I'll just check the...

...sold out at the Atlanta store, too?!

Nooooooooo!

*At the time of writing, this lamp is only available to folks visiting the Carson, California; Costa Mesa, California; or Seattle, Washington stores.

A steal!

2010-02-06T20:23:00.000-06:00

I feel like I robbed Target today! I picked up this beautiful silver cracked metallic Hollywood Intuition wrap bracelet on CLEARANCE for $2.98!

These are a hot item right now, so I can't figure out why it was marked down from $10 to $3. I'm not complaining, though! I almost never find a deal this sweet. I love it so much I'm wearing it right now.

Now I'm going to have to stalk the clearance racks for one of these babies:

It's regularly priced at just $30, but the thrill of the hunt today has got me thirsty for more!

Etsy Envy

2010-01-31T23:37:00.000-06:00

I've always had the girly dream of crafting something so awesome that I could sell it on Etsy. Not only could I make money, but I could be crafty and be my own boss. Sounds perfect, huh?

That dream has sadly not come true yet, but if I were a savvy Etsy crafter, here are some things I would want in my shop:

A camera bag just like this one by Bankgrrl. I know what you're thinking: THAT'S a camera bag? Yes, it is! It's beautiful and functional, and for how much my wonderful boyfriend spent on my camera I shouldn't even bat an eye at $165 to keep it safe. I want one so bad...

An adorable and versatile print like farouche's "Crocodile Scales." I love that it also incorporates the famous poem "How Doth the Little Crocodile" from Lewis Carroll's book, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.

Felted pieces, like this lime felted bowl by shanineal. I love the color and the texture. Felting is definitely high on my list of things to learn how to do!

A magazine holder like paperdollwoodshop's "M is for magazine" in white would be a beautiful house for my new subscription of "House Beautiful."

Necklaces made of buttons are my new obsession, so you can bet my shop would have something like minski's Golden brown button necklace. How cute!

Upcyclying is the repurposing of a material into a product of higher quality. I would love to be able to save tons of potential landfill space by making upcycled bags, like this Upcycled Sunburst Fused Plastic Wristlet by curiousdoodles.

Maybe someday, like when I am making tons of money on the side selling my own Etsy creations, I will be able to buy all of these treasures. But then again... wouldn't I be able to make my own? Argh! Catch-22!

Would you wear: Drop pants?

2010-01-27T14:26:00.001-06:00

I've seen drop-crotch pants cropping up lately in my sale alert emails, which can only mean that they are on the way out again. I first got an inkling of their return when Dior sprinkled them into the Dior Homme Fall 2007 line.

After that, I saw them occasionally on models in fashion shows, but never out in the wild. While I can appreciate Dior's attempt to rescue men from the clutches of skinny jeans, I have to say that two wrongs do not make it right for this perfectly good-looking man to look like he's wearing a sagging diaper.

Obviously, my answer to the question posed in this post's title is no, but I'm interested to know if any of you have dared to try this trend. Did you get any comments on your pants? What top or shoes did you pair with your parachute pants? And, most importantly, did you do the M.C. Hammer dance?

Curiously enough, there is even a sale on some Ella Moss drop pants today over at Gilt Fuse. Hurry, though. For reasons unbeknownst to me, they're selling out fast.

Click here to join Gilt.com. Membership is free.

Inspired by: Christina Hendricks

2010-01-22T12:41:00.000-06:00

Life is not fair. I know this to be true because while oodles of my friends pine away for a more ample chest, here I sit with too much in my cups. This has always been something that more or less defined me -- mostly because my chest makes all the fashion choices. That adorable turtleneck at J.Crew? Even if I could afford it, I couldn't wear it without looking like I shoved two watermelons into a vase. I can't wear those teeny tiny super cute spaghetti strap tank tops because my bra straps are like giant suspenders. It goes without saying, then, that strapless dresses are out of the question because I don't need help looking like a hooker.

But wait a minute...

What's this?

Christina Hendricks of Mad Men fame, the voluptuous and sultry red-haired receptionist with a penchant for office gossip -- SHE can wear a strapless dress?

Even though she does kinda look like she's about to bust out of that thing, her confident stance and bright smile give off an aura of composure and elegance. She looks beautiful, not trashy.

I am inspired and also frightened. I would love to try it, but I shudder to think about all the underwear needed to achieve this! The tape! The straps! Trying to breathe, oh my! Nice to see that it is possible for the well endowed, though.

Color Combo: Navy and Pink

2010-01-13T16:10:00.000-06:00

When I watch a television show, I like to watch it from episode 1 until I get caught up to the current season. I've fallen in love with so many television shows lately, from Dexter to Weeds to The Office and 30 Rock, but the latest obsession is How I Met Your Mother. I see a bit of myself in each of the characters and love the way each character's wardrobe really reflects their personality -- except Barney's, of course. For such a silly guy, what is up with all the suits?!

Robin's styling always inspires me and when I found her Season 4 Episode 12 outfit on celebstyle.com I was in love.

This color combo of navy and pink is so fresh to me, and I thought you might love it too. Most of the original pieces (found on the celebstyle.com link) were sold out or too expensive for my blood, so I made my own version, with two different navy sweaters. If you are like me and can't afford to invest in the cashmere J. Crew one (right, $198), you might opt for the still good, but budget-friendly $34.99 Gap version on the left. Either way, I still think this is the way I want to welcome Spring!

I also really loved it on Katy over at kansascouture.com, seen below:

I read on NY Mag that turquoise is the "it" color for 2010... but navy's pretty darn close!

Two thousands

2009-12-23T12:30:00.001-06:00

December 31st, 2009, not only marks the end of this year, but also the end of the decade we're living in, the first decade of the 21st century. It's hard to wrap my mind around that! At the end of the 1990s, I was a sophomore in high school... not cognizant of the magnitude of the turn of the century. When I put my life into decades, it doesn't sound like I've been here for all that long and that's really humbling. We are but a blip on the timeline of humanity.

I got to thinking today about how much my life and life as a society has changed in this decade and thought it would be fun to put it all into perspective.

This decade saw me...

graduate from high school and college
have 4 cars, including a Nissan I only had for one month
join MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn
in 1 car accident
in 5 relationships
turn from a teenager into a twentysomething
delete my Twitter account
living in 7 cities and 5 states
own 2 dogs
reinstate my Twitter account
buy a home
in 2 professional jobs in 2 different industries
break 1 bone (patella, which is the kneecap)
vacation in 13 states and 4 countries
in 2 weddings
lose 1 close family member
delete my MySpace account

I sprinkled in the social networking stuff for laughs, but it's all true! This decade saw the birth and rise of social networking, and it is the one thing that has changed my life the most drastically.

If you're feeling nostalgic too, check out these links I found that look back fondly on the 2000s:

40 Things that were popular at the beginning of the decade that aren't popular anymore
DeadJournal, Trucker Hats, Rubber bracelets...

Fads of the 2000s
The Big Mouth Billy Bass, Napolean Dynamite, Crocs, Uggs, Razor Scooters...

Popular baby names of the 2000s
Jacob and Emily were the most popular...

In the world of music, lots of people are giving their summations of the decade's best. Pitchfork says the best song of the decade was OutKast's "B.O.B.", while Rolling Stone says it was Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy".

IMDB says the best movie of this decade is "The Dark Knight", with "Avatar", a movie that JUST came out, in second place. Paste Magazine would have you believe it's "City of God." Moviefone, on the other hand, says it's "Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King." Guess they'll have to agree to disagree.

I'm excited to begin a new year and a new decade. I hope that I can look back at the 2010s with this kind of satisfaction.

Happy New Year to you!

Inspired by: The Proposal

2009-12-15T00:15:00.000-06:00

Usually, I pay attention to styling what I wear for only certain occasions, like going out to dinner or going to work. But something I'd like to do more of in the coming year is pay more attention to styling even when I'm just trying to be comfortable, like when I'm cleaning the apartment or running to grocery store on a weeknight.

I recently saw The Proposal which was a cute movie in and of itself, but I found myself most interested in Sandra Bullock's adorable wardrobe. This outfit specifically had me swooning:

This outfit is just what I'm going for. It looks pulled together and polished, but also comfortable. On top of that, the pieces are so basic they would fit nicely into any wardrobe.

These jackets are the bomb!

2009-09-27T21:23:00.002-05:00

I've never been much for leather jackets, even when they were in style while I was growing up. It could have had something to do with their usual high price tag and their propensity to weave in and out of fashion, but I also used to think they looked too rough. I don't know what changed, but this season they are IN and I am LOVING THEM.

Below are just a few of the ones I loved while searching around. Guess which one I love the most?

Yup, I love the one that's cheapest! That almost NEVER happens. That might just be a good enough reason to snag it.

Anybody bought one of these gems? How are you planning to wear it? I personally really love how everyone is pairing these usually tough-looking leather jackets with a delicate and feminine ruffled blouse. Even just a ruffly white top looks put-together under this beautiful jacket:

Yeah, now I'm certain I can't live without that jacket.

Give me the boot!

2009-09-13T20:27:00.002-05:00

I always do this -- wait until something is in demand before I decide that I absolutely MUST have it. I had all summer to look for and buy the winter boots I knew I was going to want, but instead I dropped money here and there on all the cute summer trends I drooled over.

So now I'm sitting here trying to find boots that are stylish, durable and IN STOCK for under $150.

I bought these boots at Old Navy two weeks ago in a hurry and I'm experiencing a little buyer remorse. They look good on, but they are one size too big and they feel really cheap. It's not that Tennessee has particularly harsh winters, but I do travel North in the Winter occasionally and I want to be sure that my footwear will stand the strain.

So I've been doing a little research -- as I always do before a big clothing investment. Let me know if you have any of these and what you think!

Birds of a feather

2009-08-19T00:11:00.001-05:00

Maybe it's the approaching end of summer that is making me yearn for all things spring-esque. Or maybe I'm getting excited about my flight to Martha's Vineyard next weekend. Or maybe I'm just feeling weighted down. There's no way of knowing what stirs up these fleeting crazes!

Over the weekend, I did quite a bit of shopping with two of my girlfriends in Louisville. When it was all said and done, I had purchased 4 pieces of jewelry at 2 different stores - all with birds or feathers on them! Without even meaning to!

Whatever it is that's got my heart all aflutter for all things feathery, it loves these affordable ways to express itself:

Dress up

2009-08-01T18:25:00.001-05:00

I'm in love with slipping on a casual summer dress in the morning and looking effortlessly cute and chic all day long. Not only do dresses look feminine and flirty, they are an easily pulled-together outfit. AND they allow air to circulate. I'm just sayin'...

I have had my eye on some darling embroidered dresses, hoping to snag some up before summer is over:

I only wish I could have them all! Argh, how to pick just one!?

Hello Yellow!

2009-07-19T21:26:00.000-05:00

Before just a few weeks ago, there wasn't a drop of yellow in my wardrobe. Not even a polka dot. I had written yellow off because I thought it made my skin look jaundiced. Then I bought a wardrobe consultation from Jill over at Good Life for Less and she opened my world up to the many different shades of yellow. Now I am finding yellow pieces I love all over the place.

I recently bought these great sandals:

Which look smashing with a grey/black/white jersey dress like these:

Here are some more pieces that are anything but mellow:

Urban Night Dress by ModCloth

The Trueheart Dress from ModCloth

Okay, so maybe it's really grey and yellow that I am loving. Still, I hope that any fellow yellow haters will reconsider their position on this exciting and bold color.

What about you? Anyone out there changed their stance on a color they previously disliked?