LOLO

Steve Madden sandals

2011-07-24T11:00:00.001-07:00

Steve Madden sandals (see more metallic shoes)

Ivanka Trump sandals

2011-07-24T10:55:00.001-07:00

Ivanka Trump sandals (see more wedge heel sandals)

J crew

2011-07-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

J crew (clipped to polyvore.com)

my blog has MOVED!!!

2011-01-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

hey everyone,

my blog has moved! here is the new link: http://scruggsl.wordpress.com/

xo!
lo

leading a visual life.

2011-01-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

i am crazy, crazy, crazy about this video documenting the sartorialist's one and only sam schuman. he holds a perspective that grace coddington (creative director of vogue; see http://bit.ly/eFzCHh) has so dearly adopted as a mandatory way of life: when out and about, do not close your eyes because you never know what might inspire you. he asserts this outlook--"keep your eyes open, and really relate to what you are seeing, react to what you are seeing..." there is surely an art to reacting--it is something that cannot be copied, where individualism is guaranteed because there is something inside us that attracts to a scene, a person, a visual inspiration. the best part is that it cannot be explained.

the man behind the renowned sartorialist camera has a raw story that offers the risk taker, the innovative type, and the off-the-cuff creative thinker, relational hope and boosting encouragement. why? because he was the sports guy who never never assisted for anyone, who's resume was not his beacon of hope, but rather his instinctual style came solely from trial and error, where he narrowed his talent and embraced his unpredictable quest to explore his original flair.

daily, i think about how little i know, how much more i could stretch my brain and my creative eagerness... and it wasn't until sam schuman's quote that i realized this is a positive thing--"my lack of knowledge in the beginning really helped and made me refine what little I knew to make it work...it wasn't really the technical aspect of photography, but how it communicated to me, how it created certain curiosities..." when something is over my head, eliminating the fear, and turning it into action makes learning so much deeper and makes skill so much more appreciated.

there is not just one right way: "it's so instinctual the way I shoot; the way I do it is just the way I do it." be who you are. look to people for inspiration rather than identity.

i love when the stories teach, when knowledge is digested outside of a cookie-cutter learning facility, and when something finally clicks because someone shared. this fascinating documentary has done just that for me.

closing thought. be a part of what the technology has to offer: "the internet has given us a digital park bench...really the whole world's open to you now..." people watching has gone global. love that.

arctic favorites.

2011-01-03T08:32:00.001-08:00

Neutral Love by LaurenScruggs featuring chunky boots

givenchy is having a leopard moment with the 'george V bag,' and i am a major fan. this rag and bone knit makes gray so exciting. alexander wang clearly knows how to construct a dress. these michael kors booties are so classic and cozy. to top it off: alexander wang sunnies can do no wrong.

reflecting on the noughties.

2010-12-31T08:36:00.000-08:00

i cannot believe that it has already been a decade since the turn of the century. what an age of fashion it has been: where high street designer collaborations graced the industry, allowing for karl lagerfeld and lanvin (amongst countless others) to be bought at an affordable penny! thank youu h&m, target, and topshop (just to name a few); where shoes became the "it" thing over bags, aka ysl's cage shoes, burberry's hiker pumps, and alexander mcqueen's armadillo boots. shoes evolved into artistic masterpieces...the more impractical, the better, causing for many model tumbles in the catwalk seasons.

to skim the surface--the noughties can be defined as:
the decade of strong support of the troops: balmain led the waging trend of military influence.

the decade where cruise and pre-collections became a priority on the consumer's agenda.

the decade of the creative director: tom ford at ysl and gucci, karl lagerfeld at chanel, stella mccartney at chloe, and phoebe philo at chloe and celine.

the decade of celebrity turned designers: kate moss for topshop and longchamp, madonna for h&m, in addition to victoria beckham, mischa barton, whitney port, THE olsens, erin wasson, alexa chung, and agyness deyn launching their own fantastic lines. (side note: i left out lauren conrad for a reason).

the decade of skinny jeans, the blogger's voice, ethical awareness, sci-fi influence, and vintage love.

i am in utter anticipation of what the next decade will hold. tomorrow starts everything...happy new year!!! xo, lo

michael kors would love this camel accent over the festive red, black, and blue.

photos: becauseimaddicted and le fashion, Erin Wasson by Santiago Esteban for Elle Spain January 2011

candy cane red.

2010-12-25T17:09:00.000-08:00

santa brought me this lipstick in my stocking. it's so vibrant and fun. merry christmas!

photo: bare style

it's that time of year.

2010-12-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

the holidays are in full swing, and i am breaking with some fireside hot chocolate, furry blankets, and christmas carols. i will be back soon with some don't-want-to-miss features, sartorial opinions, and splendid new ventures that are planned to unfold in the big 20-11. the new year is just around the corner! as for now...merry (early) christmas to all, and to all a good night.

sit back, relax, loosen up, and enjoy the color of holiday festivities! (and the black and white for that matter). lack of saturation does not mean lack of fun.

photos: nymag and olsenaddicts

we will, we will rock you.

2010-12-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

i spy a hint of tribal traits (currently trending). i love to take bits of summer heat and translate them into fierce cool-weather dispositions. take a break from built up pretense that resides in methodical work days and settle into your true self. calling all surfer-girl wannabees (AKA laid back ladies) to a place where prim and proper does not suffice, where 'yes mam' does not fit into the vocabulary...adopt some weaved bracelets to embrace your powder puff playing attitude, and focus in on your creative determination.

fierce translation number two. head to toe in deep dark hues can be just as laid back as bright braided wristlets. pale skin, shaded sleek hair, and deep lips are anything but depressing. they are simply stunning, especially for winter. something worth scribbling: wide leg trousers are entering into the fashion front full force. embrace their effortless leg-lengthening qualities, and remember to pair them with a fitted, slimming top to even out the proportions.

photos: skinnyvscurvy and premieremodelstyle

a bundle of cheer.

2010-12-03T13:44:00.000-08:00

do you find yourself in a gift-giving rut? maybe these ideas will spark a bundle of cheer!

for your uber-fashionable friend who needs another closet...a turban, deep red nail polish, alexis bittar anything, or some extra-heavy, studlicious clogs will do.

for the mom or dad or granny or boyfriend or best friend (you get the picture) who needs some tlc: the best-hour-of-your-life massage from allan brian speer (can be contacted through the ann webb spa dallas). choose from sports, deep tissue, or accupressure at a crazy reasonable dollar.

for the sweetie-pie type who seems to make everything cute...a little-too-big hat will fit. or grab her some loeffler randall rain booties with a complimentary purl soho sock pattern (knit it yourself for extra kuddos).

for the special one who sees the world through lenses of love: a heart-shaped pair of sunnies or some old-school aviators...you can never go wrong.

for the beauty who decorates her room in red, black, and audrey hepburn...go for the steve madden leopard sophie-L heel or an adorable apron from anthropologie.

for the fitness and nutrition guru who is a hippie at heart...a jonathan adler stainless steel water bottle, a topshop flower umbrella, eco friendly vickerey candles, or a freaking-awesome yoga mat will be right up her alley.

for the naturalist who adds spunk to every room, flavor to every experience, and laughter to every word...the seychelles bismuth ankle bootie or the beekman 1802 'a year in the country' soap box set will rock her world.

for the traveler who wants to capture the world...a camera from urban outfitters or a donna wilson lavendar scent eye mask for those long plane rides and unfamiliar hotel beds will make her count down for the next trip.

for your man...a brooklyn brew shop beer making kit is pretty darn cool.

photos from refinery29

glow.

2010-11-29T17:53:00.000-08:00

it's official. i am enthralled by organic skin care, and this includes the fun stuff: makeup. it was about two weeks ago that i became my own guinea pig to try toxin free products, and i have to admit i had high hopes but average expectations. i am the kind of girl that switches from product to product after months of experimentation, only to find that i am dissatisfied with the results. well, i have good news! as i am now an avid user of skin organics (for life!), it seemed that using chemical-infused makeup would defeat the purpose of all this goodness. all or nothing only made sense.

that is when i learned of a line called mineral fusion. newsflash: it feeds your skin. it works together with your antioxidant-filled cleanser and your healing moisturizer. instead of clogging pores, it actually metabolizes your skin, protects against sun damage, strengthens your surface structure, and balances hydration. go figure. the crazy thing is that i haven't even cracked the surface. engage yourself in groundbreaking beauty bliss here: http://bit.ly/hKkzfu

where to start? the concealer and foundation are ridiculously amazing. fun little extras: the eyeshadow holiday set is gorgeous, the highlighting powder creates a stunning glow, and the mascara will make batting your eyelashes a whole lot cuter (strategy for more products?).

why use this mineral makeup brand? it has credibility. it is the top selling makeup line in all whole foods stores across the country, not to mention it has numerous mentions in america's most popular magazines and blogs. +, they are created with natural preservatives that are affective for every skin type, and unlike most mineral makeup lines, the products are compact rather than loose. dear santa...

the epitome of winter.

2010-11-27T20:13:00.000-08:00

frida: so hott right now. h&m: so hott right now. winter: so hott right now.

what is your holiday trend of choice? whether it's a minimalist, masculine, oxford-layering, boyfriend-blazer undertaking absent of accessories or an ultra-feminine, peter-pan collar, jeweled bangle kind of endeavor, make sure that voluminous hair is a fixed part of the cool weather equation.

the masculine minimalist: slouch the jeans a tad, rock the horizontal strips, and ensure structure with a lengthy blazer.

the ultra feminine lady: peter pan collars are a must, color blocks allow for stand-out jewelry, clean lines are part of the deal, and rouge lips are a duh.

you know who you are. mess up your hair on purpose, layer layer layer with collared shirts and prepster sweaters, and make the jacket waist tie cool again.

all put together. hair half up. winter white. wrists stacked in gold. a heavily embellished neckline.

keep your attitude and never lose your own personality.

photos: becauseimaddicted

fall dressing.

2010-11-22T18:44:00.000-08:00

utterly inspired by black and white reels.

try this new salad dressing recipe for the winter season. it will warm your heart.

1 cup extra virgin light olive oil

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 tsp season salt

1 tsp dried oregano

1/4 tsp pepper

for added spice, check out the infused vinegars and oils at whole foods.

cargos are the best thing since sliced bread.

don't forget to dance in a flowy dress as you flashback on childhood holiday memories. tap into your inner youthfulness.

light and sultry are always complements.

i find myself deep in the heart of texas.

i find myself in dreams of the sea, where crashing waves speak louder than color.

i find myself in the center of the city, bundled in fur, shading the clouds with avies.

photos: surlatable, bistrochic, altamira, modelina, vogue, knightcat

pumpkin comeback.

2010-11-20T19:27:00.000-08:00

rescue a drab winter with bright soles.

certified love.

2010-11-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

this day is historical in my life. why? years of questions, and today i have found a solid answer. hoorah! the resolution: skin organics. i have searched long and hard (my mom can attest to this) for a skin care line that i trust and did i mention that actually works? and by works, i don't mean executing the promised sales pitch for a month and then stopping suspiciously at the warranty end date. i mean sustainably producing noticeable results.

fact. did you know that the focus of most major commercial products are made up of 90% marketing and 10% product development? conclusion: yikes.

after weeks of reading through shocking articles addressing the issue of toxic chemicals in the majority of skin care lines, i decided that my use of them needed to come to a screeching hault. i couldn't bare another day moisturizing with cancer-causing components after lathering hazardous chemicals onto my skin.

wondering about your own products? the skin deep database will become your new best friend. http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

so during one of my daily stops to whole foods (pardon my addiction), i was introduced to skin organics, and the rest was history. stay tuned for my personal experience blurbs with these antioxidant rich products, and check back for not-to-miss nuggets of knowledge after my visits with the charming and inspiring founder, ann webb.

for the impatient and curious types: check out the products at skinorganicsaw.com or in person at whole foods. for a pro-consultation facial, make a visit to the newly opened ann webb spa in lakewood, which is a dream come true for lovers of serenity. if you take this advice, i guarantee you will be enchanted, and your skin will blissfully thank you.

lo's cliffhanger: mineral fusion makeup is next up in line for full-on coverage.

winner for shopswagg.

2010-11-19T17:34:00.000-08:00

the winner for the shopswagg contest is colleen!!! congrats, and enjoy the event with your +1 :-) please contact me at lauren.scruggs@gmail.com so that i can get the tickets to you. xoxo

ahead of the game.

2010-11-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

when winter comes, warm seasons inevitably begin filling our dreams and fashion starts planning for the next wave of weather. spring forecast: plunging necklines assigned to long hemlines saturated in soft colors. these blending of trends were dominant on the runways and exquisitely expressed in the roland mouret show. in addition to lemonade stands and iced tea, sweet greens and rich sun-shining yellows will offer refreshment to the tropical spring days ahead.

photos: nymag

cocorosa.

2010-11-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

comfy cozy cute is cocorosa. loving this blogger. translate these photos into your reality with chunky knits, fringe, and shearling (a fall must-have). add some nerdy ray-bans to show off your fashionably intelligent side. did i forget to mention neutrals? and turbans...and slit shoulder dresses...need i say more?

blog contest!

2010-11-09T03:43:00.000-08:00

the nyc shopswagg event is just around the corner. on the agenda: "sip cocktails and listen to tunes, while shopping from NYC designers and boutiques. indulge in spa treatments and complimentary makeup applications." this is something that you won't want to miss. more details here: http://shopswaggnyc2010.eventbrite.com/

sign up to follow my blog in order to be entered to win 2 free tickets. winners will be announced november 19.

xoxo.

2010-11-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

we thank chuck bass for introducing us to clemence poesy. i heart her organic look and henley flannel. hello fall!

photos: lefashion

rustic cables.

2010-10-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

chunky knits are all-the-rage this season. comfy, cozy, slouchy, and slim take posture in the tangled woods as golden sun-shining hues give tousled volume a soft heavenly glow. over-saturate your wardrobe with classic sweaters, calfskin boots, and nature infused accents. it's all about the deep eyes and bronzed cheek bones, letting your locks catch the wind as you frolic in the wheat fields.

photos: allure november 2010

lindsey wixson.

2010-10-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

keep your eye on this gap-toothed beauty.

photos: tumblr

wear your heart on your sleeve.

2010-10-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

eccentricity is something i admire because our it reflects our jumbled hearts. i like to chill where fringe and leopard print wedges coordinate superbly, where oldies channel modernity, and where safari mannerisms meet urban outfitters quirks. who said that adventure requires travel? use your closet inhabitants to embark on your own journey.

photo: backyard bill

side by side.

2010-10-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

where editorial reaches the street.

erin wasson at alexander wang.

photos: becauseimaddicted blog and lauren scruggs

don't turn the channel.

2010-10-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

question: what is better than chanel? answer: chanel amped with edge while still holding true to its classic feminine posture. take a gander and thank karl for defining spring 2011 in such a way as this.

photos: nymag

nordic frenzy.

2010-10-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

with winter comes fur, which is all the reason to jump onto the nordic train this season. animal lover? faux fur is not the only alternative. check out harricana's recycled fur collection. for winter: pair a fluff lined hoodie with relaxed hair, some army green apparatus, and a hint of innocence.

or...couple a foxy vest with a pretty printed blouse only to heighten your femininity. helpful hint: add smoke to the eyes and dark contrasts to the pants to guarantee a mysterious edge.

photos from refinery29

posing in paris.

2010-10-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

my absolute favorite snap shots from paris fashion week. inspiration is inevitable.

bright and fierce is abbey lee.

dark and charming is frida.

eclectic and chic is taylor tomasi hill.

take it to the stairs for a fashionable break, and tell mr. matchy-matchy he's not welcome.

pics from refinery29 and altamira

montreal fashion week: day two.

2010-09-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

early to rise and shine, i made my way down to breakfast to eat with andreas, emanuela, and mari. after pleasant conversation, we set in route to the third floor for a press meeting with the commisioner of montreal, the economic director of quebec, the director of development for quebec, as well as the president of fashion week. it was a fascinating time of discussion on how to cultivate the uniqueness of this city and improve the upcoming fashion weeks. it was captivating to see how closely involved the government is with the industry, how this melting pot of a city is so tighly knit. after our french goodbyes and exchange of diverse opinions, we hopped into a tour van to take a trek around the historical city. we explored the quaint (and lovable) old city of montreal, the breath-taking notre-dame basilica, the lively downtown, commercial shopping streets, parisian inspired roads, and the mountain. our car ride was full of hysterical laughing, photo snapping, and new knowledge. our path ended at the l'institut, a renowned restaurant run by the esteemed cooking school students. we dined with the manager (an enchanting and engaging woman to say the least), and enjoyed every course: red wine, potato soup, fresh baguette, salmon, cinnamon creme, creme brulee, and hot black tea to conclude. i began to realize that meals here are much more than eating; it calls for pure enjoyment, new experience, satisfying conversation with depth in every topic, even career. we arrived back at the marche bonsecours to visit the underground showroom, where talent was exploding. denim collections, jewelry, handbags, and racks of gorgeous clothing made for an overstimulating afternoon. speaking with designers was so interesting and inspiring to hear about their visions and excitement for their creations. the rain disappeared and the sun shone brightly, so we took an afternoon stroll around the waterfront and the adorable brick roads to absorb the rich culture of this place. shopping was next on our agenda. yipee!! simons and debo were our retailers of choice for purpose to view the montreal designer collaborations with phillip dubuc and denis gagnon. i felt like we were in a movie-side by side in dressing rooms, laughing, trying on clothes, and analyzing whether it was worth a purchase. our next stop was the historical jewelry store, birks (the equivalent to tiffany's in the states). we were greeted warmly by the store's expert and were wooed with the stunning diamonds and the deluxe past of this store. for dinner, we walked over to a vegetarian buffet and tried so many delicious plates. we then taxied back to the venue to watch two runway shows--valerie dumaine and second clothing denim. both were pumped with energy and talent. the night finished with a beautiful view of city from the conference room at city hall (diane's office), recycled mode de montreal street banners designed by phillip dubuc, and a casual walk back to the hotel. emanuela and i discussed how proud the residents of this city are to call this place home (and a arena to flourish in their talent), and i am completely aware as to why. this place is a conglomeration of everything wonderful. it is homey and safe, cultured and edgy, professional yet absent of all pretense. i am utterly charmed.

montreal fashion week: un jour.

2010-09-28T22:37:00.000-07:00

only to live in a dream is to be woken up by the reality of new indescribable experiences that add to the quality of life. after flying into montreal late last night, i became aware of the vast diversities that exist in our world. to breathe in the fresh cool air from the taxi, observe new scenes, and learn a little french on the way was beyond my unprecedented expectations. this trip has found itself in a new category considering i had no prior knowledge of montreal fashion week, the mode of this region, or really anything about this city. i arrived at the beautiful hotel in the heart of downtown, only to be warmly welcomed into a heavenly bed and a big window peering over the buildings. i slept off and on, dreaming in my head of the next day. bright and early, i met emanuela (the fashion bureau attendant to the commissioner of montreal) for a hearty scrumptious breakfast. she is a charming blend of italian and french influence, whose spunky zest for life is only contagious. andreas, a reporter from colon, germany, also joined us for the adventurous day that awaited. our first meeting was at the ecole superieure de mode de i'uqam (a fashion school), with designer ying gao. she showed us her interactive line of dresses that was inspired by the french movie "playtime." i have never before seen intagible objects integrated with fashion. she brought a whole new depth to style, as she disclosed her highly-focused vision of innovative mathematical freedom in her designs. from discovering the lightest fabric in the world to connoting the use of shape, whit, and conceptual wisdom was mind boggling and impressive to the core. in retrospect, i now see that this introduction was merely foreshadowing for the contents of montreal. it contains new creators with notions that have yet to be discovered, where artists design for the love of art, for the challenge of advanced perspectives. money and growth does not drive their work, but rather, they create with their hearts and humble capability. proof: they do not believe they are geniuses when, as an outsider, this is clearly the case. we were lucky enough to meet ying gao's assistant, isabel, who displayed her final design project to us. for a superfluous amount of delight, go here to view her final project: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDW1lR1n8KE. on to the mccord museum we went next, where the history of canadian fashion came alive with dresses from the early 1900s, preserved vintage christian diors gowns, and ancient wedding dresses. not to mention, we stopped by the cirqe de solei exhibition, which was outstanding to the 100th power. time for lunch! diane, the commisioner of montreal, met us for a bite at a quaint little eatery outside of montreal's fashion week venue, marche bonsecours. i was delighted by the culture over quality conversation, butternut squash soup, homemade baquette, red snapper, and chocolate mousse. delectable. next on the agenda: the press conference with a speech from the mayor and the president of fashion week to officially launch the talent into full force! the marie saint pierre presentation was our next stop. a tour of her manufacturing studio (which ensured impeccable quality in every step) was so exhilarating, as were the stunning designs. i am still in awe not only of her collection but of her well-rounded spirit which spoke of the importance of quality of life over career. dinner awaited in the media room, with four runway shows to begin our live interaction. the contemporary david dixon and the muse by christian chenail were lovely, but not quite my taste. helmer equaled to one of the most exquisite, ornate lines i have ever seen (no wonder he is a worthy heir of haute couture), and dimitri chris offered a high energy naturalistic menswear collection. a walk home on the cobble stone streets, our make shift umbrellas, and the drizzling rain somehow was unbelievably charming amidst delirium from much needed zzz's. bonne nuit!

en route to montreal.

2010-09-26T09:08:00.000-07:00

my upcoming agenda: reporting for montreal fashion week. follow my blog for daily updates and inside scoop on the innovative lineup of designers!

my NYFW diary: september 15.

2010-09-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

today was just full of prettiness. nanette lepore opened up my morning and left a very high standard for the remaining shows. it was exploding with energy and color, making me wish spring wasn't so far away. on this too-perfect weather of a day, i took a venture down central park west and took a touristy trip to madison avenue to gander at the shops and breathe in the fresh air. after some perusing, back to lincoln center i went, to catch the harper's bazaar accessory presentation, which was an absolute delight. it opened my knowledge to so many outstanding jewelry makers that are those above-and- beyond innovative types. i enjoyed getting to learn of their stories and the inspiration behind their exquisite creations. some names to check out: lizzie fortunado, prova, anndra neen, and, of course, alexis bittar. milly by michelle smith was up next on my to-do, which i was quite ecstatic about. it was packed out. the collection was rupturing with tomato, green, and navy hues, head wraps, and audacious prints. odd molly arrived shortly after, which was not quite my taste, but fun none-the-less. best surprise of the day: i was lucky enough to get in to anna sui (with the help of mari). what a treat. watching abbey lee walk made my day, not to mention the boho-extravagance of the fabulous conglomeration. safari anyone? final show of the day: mackage. the designer is known for his leather creations, and this year he changed pace with an entire collection of clothes. i am thankful. a big batch of veggies and writing ends my day. the finale is tomorrow!

up close and personal.

2010-09-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

to narrow down my favorite collections for spring/summer 2011 was nearly impossible, but rebecca taylor, diane von furstenberg, rag and bone, and jason wu topped the charts. caution: these may take your breath away.

rebecca taylor.

trends: animal prints, pretty blouses, trenches, khaki, mushroom pleats, maxi skirts, sheer double pockets, high sleek buns.

diane von furstenberg.

trends: matte pink lips, circle shades, pulled back hair, rich prints, color, and camel hues.

rag and bone.

dive into bold exciting prints for spring!
jason wu.

trends: turbans, wide leg pants, ruffles, boyfriend blazer, sheer tops, stripes.

-all photos from style.com

my NYFW diary: september 14.

2010-09-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

today started out on a very interesting note with the style360 fashion show on 18th street. i will spare you the details! i ventured back up to lincoln center to see the 100th anniversary showcase for women's wear daily, presenting a display of limited-edition pieces by eleven designers who have re-created iconic looks from the last hundred years of fashion. the exhibition offered a glimpse into the design process, including sketches, fabric samples, life-size ensemble cutouts, and the final creations themselves. some of the selected designer participants were adam, alexandre birman, doo.ri, jason wu, marchesa, prabal gurung, proenza schouler, and thakoon. from this point on, fashion was done for the day. i was in desperate need for some nature! i took a jog over to central park after taking a swing through co-op and found new places that i had yet to discover...one of those being the path along the reservoir (one of the most beautiful sites of the big apple). rabbit trail for a minute: for some reason, it feels like you are in a music video when you run in this city; it feels like you are in your own world, while so many lives pass by you. it exists as a way to retreat from people while in the midst of thousands of them. after a long run, i took a stroll back through the shady trees and found the perfect bench next to the canoeing pond to take a nap. i took off my ipod to soak in the sounds of different languages, animals, and sometimes a glimpse of silence. it was the perfect sleep in the midst of the following forecast: sunny. no chance of rain. high of seventy-four. i forced myself up after a while, as i could have stayed there forever, and took a slow tread back to the apartment just in time to get ready for the new york city ballet. me and terry enjoyed a patio street side dinner at rosa mexicana, ate the most delectable homemade guacamole, fantastic meals, laughed, and talked about the ins and outs of life. as the sun was setting, we walked over to lincoln center for the opening night of the ballet. it was absolutely breathtaking, graceful, and enchanting. i never wanted it to end. tomorrow is a new day!

my NYFW diary: september 13.

2010-09-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

today was like a good book that ends up completely highlighted because every part of it was just as wonderful as the other. the climax of my morning was bumping into eric daman and sami (my bosses and friends from gossip girl) outside of the tents. they always brighten my day, and it was so great to catch up with them. next up for the monday line up: a stop by the victoria's secret suite. getting my nails manicured, undertaking a massage, snatching a sneak peak of the fall and holiday collection, and sipping on some organic peppermint tea was the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of nyfw. lunch time arrived with a trip over to the bon appetit cafe, full of featured recipes from world renowned chefs...my avocado steak salad was oh-so-savory! then lindsay, annie, and i made our way to the net-a-porter luncheon where we enjoyed stunning fall line previews from various collections. with an hour to spare before monique lhuillier, we had a little pow wow in the courtyard...fun times. the long awaited show was beginning before we knew it, and the dresses were UN.BELIEVABLE. absolutely jaw dropping. finally, i met a friend in central park, sat on a bench under an umbrella in the raging rain, wondering about the possibility of getting struck by lightning, and talking about life. the day came to a close with meeting katie for some fro yo (tasti-d-lite style of course!) and deep conversation. this city is alive!

my NYFW diary: september 12.

2010-09-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

come rain or shine, fashion week still carries on in full force! what a fun filled day with new adventures around every corner, from the instant i woke up to the moment i stepped back into my sweat pants and t-shirt. this morning, i grazed down to the derek lam show to shoot some model street style. little did i know who i would run in to. i was approaching back stage, and i saw a white bob in the near distance...it clicked with me--abbey lee kershaw, AKA one of my favorite models. ever. i met up with the normal crew, who i see everyday (it becomes such a small world), one of which is craig from altamira (my most adored model blog!). snap shots of freja beha, anja rubrik, and karlie kloss, amongst many others, were taken captive by a flash, and the energy only seemed to crescendo as the rain started to fall. music video anyone? no one seemed to notice; we were having too much fun delgating mini photo shoots. i took the rest of the morning off, and by that i mean going to urban outfitters. i don't know why, but they are just better in nyc. the clock hit three. back to lincoln center! i took a breather at the itty-bitty cafe to people watch, succumbed to some pop chips and muscle milk giveaways, and sparked up a convo with two filmographers about organic beauty products and my distant relation to earl scruggs. random. checked in for trias. the show was fun, but the clothes were so-so. nothing seemed to really strike me. from here, i caught the subway and headed over to my old stomping grounds for church at apostles. it was wonderful. then, me and my sweet friend katie scavengered through trader joes since my refrigerator is looking a bit lonely, and then walked over to spice for a scrumptious din. we split some seafood dumplings and lemongrass chicken over amazing conversation. so encouraged and thankful for her friendship. the subway ride home was full of funny stories that will be saved for the imagination, all to end up at square one--recapping the doorman, terry, and michael about my day. it amazes me how much occurs in one twenty-four hour period in this melting pot of a city. i heart nyc.

my NYFW diary: september 11.

2010-09-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

the likes of diego binetti started off my day in lincoln center. it was a full-sighted pleasure where embroidery, lace overlays, and beaded crystals merely cracked the surface of the spectacular detail and embellishment in this collection. after snapping some photos, i filled my free afternoon with some catch-up writing left over from the insanity of yesterday, and caught up on some rest and relaxation by hanging around lincoln center for a bit, people watching and taking in the myriad of exciting creative things happening all at once. as i was walking to the backstage area to grab some snap shots of the models, i bumped into a photog friend that i had met when picking up my credentials, and we had a fun little mini photo shoot on the street (credit to my current elliots:)) as another camera jumped in on the action. little did i know, it was elle.com and wwd. theme of fashion week: you never know who is standing right next to you. this happenstance occured with topshop uk to boot--i was quite excited about that. i love learning from these fantastic artists. next up: one of my favorite past times: pit stop at whole foods food bar and lunch on a shady bench in central park. it was the prime day for this. fashion break over--my friend jayme (a pro show crasher, might i add) and i headed to pier94 on hudson to attempt an entry into alexander wang. it was full, but the people watching outside the show was almost as good as getting in. astonishing style. spotted: bloggers hanneli mustaparta and tavi, maggie gyllenhal, erin wasson, and rachel zoe. wanting to soak up every last minute in this riveting crowd, my alarm reminded me that i had to get going to the charlotte ronson show. brisk walking turned into a jog with seven short blocks, two long blocks, and five minutes to spare. i bumped into tim gunn on the way in and made it to my seat all to be once again inspired by this high energy collection. done.for.the.day. cheerio darlings!

my NYFW diary: september 10.

2010-09-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

today started out at the guli show, which was not to my liking, but the day got better and better from here. i attended the tadashi shoji presentation which displayed a myriad of dresses that were wonderfully earthy yet elegant. i continued onto BCBG, where flowy fabrics in every shade of neutral walked the runway. stunning. not to mention, one of my favorite parts about the shows is watching the highly interesting people walk into them, wondering what their stories are--some well known editors and bloggers, but what about the rest? the outfits are uber-creative, not one looks the same, which is so refreshing! from here, i took a break in the lincoln center courtyard outside of the karl lagerfeld luncheon, met some fellow photogs/reporters, and awed over the over-the-top fantastic chanel-esque ensembles. from bright red turbans to foot high flowered hats, this event was superfluous in a keen taste for style, each walking out the door full of character, life, and drama. from there, i took the subway down to the meatpacking district for the lorick presentation. i turned onto little west 12th, and on the quaint little brick road, i ran into a mini photo shoot that had formed to capture the models of jason wu. what a find! hanneli mustaparta was among the few people shooting some style-files for their blogs. it was fun to work next to them. i then made my way to lorick a few doors down, by which the only impression i had of this line was that it was mrs. waldorf's collection on gossip girl. who knew we would all be in for such a treat? this presentation was my favorite of the day--natural, feminine, and organic. i made my way uptown once more to cover whitney port at the tresemme lounge in the tents. so great getting to see her in person. ports1961 awaited me...such an anticipated show every season. it did not disappoint. the fabrics flowed so perfectly. not to mention, it was astounding to watch lindsay ellington, freja beha, amongst many others walk. also, i had the chance to meet olivia palermo, and she was so shockingly sweet. i guess that's how reality tv mutates reputations! after the show, i went to the backstage entrance, and on my way back bumped into erin wasson. i could not imagine this day getting much better.

fashion night out was a mad house. the city was packed out. i first went to the soho victoria's secret store where i had the privilege of meeting adriana lima, doutzen kroes, and chanel iman. they are all such wonderful people, and the event was a success--proven by the line stringing a block long to get autographs. i then went to the phillip lim 3.1/rag and bone block party where the tunes were blarring and the crowds were swarming. spotted: halle berry! finally, i headed back uptown and finished the night with a tasti-d-lite and some writing. cheers to fashion!

go here to see my exclusive interview with adriana lima and chanel iman: http://bit.ly/9ZYz8K

my NYFW diary: september 9.

2010-09-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

today was all about work and play. woke up to open windows with 70 degree weather--absolutely perfect. first show of the day: ELLE next fashion show. it was brilliantly fun and packed with talent. my highlight was interviewing the incredible joe zee (creative director of ELLE) and getting to talk with erin kaplan. such wonderful people! seth from the city is pretty darn incredible too. this was such a laid back time to really get to talk with editors and designers and enjoy the innovation of fresh designer faces. there was such a positive energy in the air as everyone mingled with breakfast samplers and cocktails and overlooked the new home of fashion week. i talked with designer, marcia patmos, for quite some time, which was inspiring to say the least, and then made my way to explore the tents. i met up with my friends lindsay and mari for a little break in the courtyard. so thankful for our heart to heart; getting to catch up was much needed. i hung out in the lincoln center square for a bit after shooting style files that caught my eye, and in between there met yuli ziv, the editor who i am writing for. i felt like i could have taken a million photos! fun spottings of today: nigel barker, amy astley, and tyson. i made my way down to the meatpacking district to catch the suzanne rae presentation, a designer to for sure keep your eye on. the venue was sitting on the high line overlooking the hudson river. i met some fun people with so many different backgrounds and stories. eccentric music played and the clothes were fantastic. this was much enjoyed (thank you, crosby!). from then on, the rest is history. i shopped til i dropped. im not sure if my legs will ever recover from the journey (or my broken shoe!). i found some treasures on bleecker street and soho, and ended my venture at abc furniture, where i learned more about organic beauty products and dreamed about the decor of my future house. to top it all off, i walked along the river just as the sun was setting, grabbed some whole foods where i met an irish man who went to every show today. i asked him what he did, and he said he just enjoys fashion. now, that's cool. it's time to call it a day. tomorrow will be packed with shows and fashion night out...whoo hoo!! let the walking art continue.

see my exclusive interview with joe zee here: http://loscruggs.blogspot.com/

my NYFW diary: september 8.

2010-09-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

today was full of surprises! i woke up bright and early to the sound of sirens (city love) and picked up my press credentials for the week...met some fun photographers and reporters there. my day then consisted of visiting the teen vogue offices, where i saw some of my favorite editors, and 'tweeters' for that matter. among them--@evachen. 4 times square is a magical place. i decided to take a quick stop at starbucks to order a venti ice water, and ran into alessandra ambrosio (my favorite model of all time!) and ana beatriz. i have never been more happy about my decision to go to starbucks! from there, i stopped by trader joes to grab some more protein bars and matcha green tea mints and headed down to soho to meet my friend jayme for lunch. her mulberry street apartment is so darn cute, not to mention the restaurant we went to for lunch, called ruby's. i love nyc because everyone sits at the same table even if they are strangers. my afternoon finished out with seeing old friends at the michael kors showroom and watching michael run around like crazy preparing last touches, while models stopped in for castings...their natural style and the chaos of fashion week is such an exhilarating combo. tomorrow the shows begin...yipee! stay tuned...

alessandra ambrosio and ana beatriz

my NYFW diary: september 7.

2010-09-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

today was a whirlwind in the best possible way. my morning started out with a protein shake and getting to meet emmitt smith on my flight. i didn't think it was possible, but he is even more of a stud muffin in person. i arrived in nyc this afternoon, unpacked, and headed out for a run on the hudson river, listening to lady antebellum and whatever else my ipod shuffled. the energy is insane here. so many new people met today, so many new places discovered...i hit up topsop today and left with nothing. shocked. trying to walk to the grocery store after that was a mistake, as i was utterly distracted by the soho jewelry street vendors. after some bargaining, i purchased a beautiful and unique african statement necklace. my trek ended at my intended destination, trader joes, where i could have spent hours, only to be limited by the vogue fashion show start time. amongst my array of groceries, i returned home with a pound of a dark chocolate bar (my best purchase, by far). i made it just in time to run up to the apartment, grab my camera, and go to the fashion night out vogue show! it was stunning. i had the opportunity to bump into gisele being interviewed and anna wintour discussing the show. besides getting some great street style photos of some of the models and attenders (and spotting victoria's secret model behati prinsloo), i had the chance to meet and talk with hanneli mustaparta (my favorite blogger!). from my precious taxi driver to the doorman at the apartment, today was filled with joyful people, fascinating stories, and new experiences. the fashionable chaos has just begun. until tomorrow...

below are some highlight photos from the vogue fashion night out show.

trend: prints, neutrals, the side braid.

anna wintour, editor-in-chief of vogue.

andre leon talley interviewing gisele bundchen.

lily donaldson.

street style. trends spotted: the nude shoe, platforms, neutrals, boyfriend blazer.

street style: pop a black dress with some funky shoes.

hanneli mustaparta sporting proenza schouler and some neon nails.

leaving on a jet plane.

2010-09-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

i am nyc bound for mercedes benz fashion week. check out http://myitthings.com/fashionweek/ for live coverage and reviews on the myriad of shows and events i will be reporting on. stay tuned!! xo

desert delight.

2010-09-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

this trend exudes down to earth sensuality. i fancy the shift this season is taking from surfer babe to mountain girl, or desert chick for that matter. take this mode an extra step further by sporting it cape style with jeans and clogs.

depiction of freedom.

2010-08-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

portrait frenzy.

2010-08-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

hedi slimane: a contrast portrait expert. i think that explanation will do.

raw and beautiful.

back to the classics.

2010-08-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

hone in on the minimalist front by using camel as your pop color and silhouette perfection as your eye-catching tactic. during most neutralist waves, the lip or nail shade usually serve as the add-a-little-spice accent, but this fall, the more absence of pigment, the better. take a gander: the lips stay nude while the nails incorporate a light cacao, chocolate mousse hue if you will? ensembles are monochromatic yet sizzling in the chic department, and winter white is oh-so-bright for the season (yes, the white after Easter rule is long gone).

immerse in camels, nudes, chocolates, black, caramels, and whites, AKA classic colors.

invest in classic pieces rather than trendy items.

focus on fit.

simplicity is more.

handle the upcoming shift in seasons with blazers, knee length skirts, wide leg trousers, ruffled blouses, capes, skinny belts, low kitten heels, classic satchels, and uber-feminine menswear.

elle august 2010

vogue germany

i'm addicted...

2010-08-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

...to hippie-esque, organically beautiful, raw shots--otherwise known as SYNONYMS for dan martensen photography. my plans for a wednesday night consisted of awing over these fascinations composed of sublime lighting and an unpretentious genre. i bid you to NOTICE the sense of flattering comfort in silhouette and tone. accessories needed: gigantic sand castles where surf boards are welcome and headscarves are essential, where nature is a duh and minimalism is a must. conclusion and fall trend forecast: it's all going back to the basics.

dan martensen photography is the bomb.

what's your sunshine?

2010-08-09T08:02:00.000-07:00

life without sunshine is like life without laughter.

take time to pose in your sunnies...

and giggle even when life feels like it's lacking color. a new day has new mercies...live in the moment without always gazing into the future, enjoying every present second as if it was your last.

boundless.

2010-08-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

nyc remains in a constant state of boundless fascination, where people are people, where pretending is highly discouraged and clearly, nearly, and thankfully unattainable. it is a city of raw living, where struggle cannot be hidden, where maturing is inevitable, where stories are rich, where value is held in experiences rather than materials.

olivia palermo from The City reflects the depth of the big apple, where trend meets high street, where elegance collides with vibrant personality, where a getaway into a character is not acting but rather an artistic view into the mysteries of someone that can only be exposed by illustration through a lens...

olivia palermo for asos

she takes us to a reality where chic does not necessarily translate into what is aesthetically pleasing, but rather to what is unashamedly proclaimed, where the debate of the skinny vs. chunky heel is unnecessary, where converse with a dress is sleek, because art is fashion and fashion is art. point taken? mistakes do not accompany creative masterpieces.

in the raw.

2010-07-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

if a photo could capture what goes on inside my head, this one does a darn good job.

i can say with zero hesitation that my favorite attire is...bare feet, no make up, lots and lots of rings (preferably with stories behind them), sitting in the midst of sun and trees, eating some-preservative-free-thing straight from a garden, using words like whoa and amazing.

if home is where the heart is, then my heart is in the stereotypical midst of horses, cattle, and southern accents. so even if you are a suburbanite texan, keep cowGIRL boots and a wrangler hat on stand by at all times; you never know when you might need to represent your roots.

erin wasson for Italian Elle

lighting is everything.

2010-07-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

the fall brings us...angelic tones of soft white and tossled locks, fairy lilacs and bubble bows...

raw fierceness that requires little to no effort and sleek pulled back fringes that show off threaded brows and glowing skin.

petra van raaij is my hero.

suit up.

2010-07-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

korean vogue knocks my socks off. suit up with organic pieces, classic blacks, and ever-fading neutrals. the imperative: include a watch to be extra professional, timely, and sensational.

inspiration dispenser.

2010-07-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

a peek into my fall fancies: diminished hues are blazing on jackets, broad rimmed hats are topping off attitude, and cameras focus in front of white tanks and organically fitted jeans. laughter explodes and kisses are a sultry red.

natalie off duty

laura mackness by weekday

hanneli

hair is rich AND natural. sheer is the new cotton. eyes are innocent and lips are courageous.

because im addicted blog, backstage at Chanel couture

bleached by summer.

2010-07-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

redefine sporty by matching your hair to your shorts and scribbling your feelings on a toned down sweat shirt. for makeup: nix the inky black and turn the smoky eye warm with golds and browns.

summer goal: antithesis. matchy matchy goes against all formulas of learning and fashion. it breeds conformity, (IN OTHER WORDS) clinging to safety. don't deprive yourself of having a spicy summer by refusing to engage in something unfamiliar. plant yourself in a different culture. dye your hair red--or your lips. read books. learn sports. take pictures. eat sushi. grow your own veggies.

into the wild.

2010-07-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

these flat booties are the perfect transition into the fall season. do yourself a favor and buy your feet a present. according to credible statistics (or maybe just my experience), leopard prints are immune to buyer's remorse. I promise.

senso ladens on solestruck.com

further reference: feline is not a trend, it's a classic, which means it will never go out of style.

buckles, bangles, and bangs.

2010-07-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

mirror sienna miller by making the neutral plunge.

sidekick.

2010-07-07T16:39:00.000-07:00

a confidant triggers confidence in taking fashionable ventures. a soul sister makes the plunge to sport a turban way less questionable, and the clash of ten trends in one friendship seems beautiful.

a friendship lies where broken hearts are mended and feelings are worn on tees, where blonde and brunette are compliments, where lace and horizontal stripes are the perfect fit, where granny socks and oxfords look cute, and where black and white meeting florals is the answer, not a question.

fireworks and flags flying high.

2010-07-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

happy fourth of july!

the only time geometry is fun.

2010-06-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

hat: roxy, scarf from china, shirt: sweet pea, jeans: current elliot, shoes: jeffrey campbell

lifeSTYLE.

2010-06-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

style is the way you eat, work, and play.

it's time to get serious about what we put in our bodies. did you know our gut is classified as our second brain? it contains 95% of the serotonin in our body. therefore, chowing down not only controls your weight, it dictates your mental functions, your levels of depression, your hormones, and all aspects of your appearance.

attack your trouble areas with food. my favorite foods and tips to help you feel and look your best:

bounce back after a workout: quinoa: a complete protein
balance the pH of your skin and fight acne: carrots
my favorite snack: hard boiled eggs and red peppers
for fuller, healthier hair: lean meats and whole grains
get a golden glow: half a sweet potato a day
settle your nerves with oatmeal
best yogurt: fage 0% greek yogurt
indulgence: chocolate. the darker the better.
green tea: goji berry green tea from The Cultured Cup: packed with antioxidants and flavor.

don't worry, be happy.

these foods may sound unappealing, but i challenge you to replace the high levels of corn syrup and processed sugar that hide in entrees that are not classified as sweets, and soon your body will crave what is healthy.

the KEY: don't deprive yourself of your favorites, just make them treats instead of regulars. train your body to crave true nutrients. the guarantee: your body will thank you and your confidence will soar.

worried about cost of organic food? GO HERE: http://bit.ly/aB5n5T

roksanda illincic resort.

2010-06-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

i've got sunshine on a cloudy day.

draping taken to a whole new level.

the striking norm.

2010-06-15T22:39:00.000-07:00

new york makes high fashion look natural. it is one place where "makeup not included" is status quo. the atmosphere is enriching.

pic, altamira

lost in translation.

2010-06-01T15:57:00.000-07:00

i find it quite interesting that different scenes spark something in our creativity. where would our prevailing taste be without landscape, nature, and culture? i love how fashion refuses to be narrow minded. it blends in, yet stands out. it collides with every visual influence, and it is up to the wearer to choose the degree of such intrusion.

the wheat fields: nude hues and deep lips.

pic, living the vogue

the lake: chambray and pink.

pic, because im addicted

on the road: tribal prints, cargo totes, and hobo bangles.

hiking ancient trails: safari hats, socks paired with lace ups, slouchy layers.

pic, knight cat

everything has a rhythm, a theme. do you ever wonder what makes one person a care free naturalist and the other a formal perfectionist, or a combo of both? what's fascinating: it is impossible to conclude a formula to interpret this thought. possible explanation: maybe we are just simply captured by creation.

i think i found my solemate.

2010-05-31T19:25:00.000-07:00

scorett 2010 fall collection. these wedges are edgy. awesome. playful. they can be dressed up or dressed down. in other words, they are an intelligent investment.

hello heat.

2010-05-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

mine just arrived in the mail. surfer girl gone city.
pic, because im addicted blog

the season marked by the longest days and the shortest nights should be spent like this--

clogs, high bun, water.

pic, le fashion blog

picnics, daisies, and everything nice. summerize your feet in two words: platform oxfords.

pic, living the vogue blog

vacation in floral grunge.

pic, the knight cat blog

a dream i'm chasing: to have an organic garden of my own one day.

pic, the daily green

analyze the undertaking.

2010-05-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

the act of pursuing is never ending and all-encompassing. it may seem that it can stop to take a breath, when in reality, it is in full motion, just with a different identity. pursuit looks like so many things: growth, healing, laziness, rest, beauty, fear. it has indefinite limits, unlimited synonyms. it is quite a fascinating word, a loaded word. in fact, life would be at a stand still if pursuit was inactive.

pic, the sartorialist

so, stop for a moment. pursue a time to reflect, to soak in art, to realize beauty in things around you. enjoy your ventures rather than accidentally qualifying them as mere activity. sharpen dreams. the following stands true: the adventure dulls when purpose fades.

p.s. while you're at it, throw on a surplus jacket and some platform booties to make your undertaking extra cute.

catch the wave.

2010-05-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

the ocean is one of the most welcoming places in the world. it gives sun, relaxation, and serenity. in its generosity, the beach can take the credit for the sun kissed look that has shaped the all american image. who knew nature had such contribution to classic fashion?

standing as one of the most popular vacation spots, this magical place has an unexplainable power to eliminate stress by bringing out the free spirit that every person obtains. so is it possible that incorporating hints of the beach life in your wardrobe would bring out the free spirit just as the beach itself does? find out for yourself...

pic, vogue and fashionising

summer is a season of exploration. in the embrace of this truth, professing your inner surfer dude can be quite feminine. whether its in your swim suit or your dressy ensembles, there is always room for splashes of this classic look. take note: a surf board will only add credibilty to this experiment. hang loose!

living in a daydream.

2010-05-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

in all fantasy, it seems that life would be easier if it were black and white...or would it just be more predictable, comfortable, and lacking in inspiration? I have my opinions. as for now, I want to be wrapped up in plaid on an exotic beach with a pair of wellies...AKA rain boots.

pic, love blog

keep it short.

2010-05-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hemlines are being raised a few notches this season. Whether paired over tights, leggings, or a bare leg, this trend is something that should be embraced. It immediately adds height to your appearance, and if worn correctly, has great potential to reflect high street fashion.

Balance must be taken into consideration when sporting this trend. The higher the hemline, the higher the neckline should come. Keeping proper proportion will restore elegance over promiscuity.

pic, Hanneli Mustaparta

If this mode makes you hesitate, put a boyfriend blazer over a skirt that hits the same place on the leg to implement extra coverage. Mini dresses, skirts, and shorts are alive and well this season, how will you welcome them into your wardrobe?

true androgyny.

2010-04-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

who ever said that girls can't play football and still love fashion?? I heart karlie kloss because she represents this truth with juxtaposition, showing that high fashion can be sporty, that the runway walks where the pros play.

pic, Teen Vogue

mutual comparisons: liquid leather for the intimidation factor. spotted: tribal accents on the waist. Knee high socks are a must on the playing field. football pads translate to the strong shoulder. Oh, and leopard kitten heels…they speak for themselves.

florals + leather

2010-04-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

this season is all about being playful: mixing girly prints with a strong fabric, such as leather. a quality material such as this neutralizes busy patterns, creating a complimented outfit that flatters the artistic purpose of clothing. This is a great direction to turn if you want to exude a perfect amount of unconventional sophistication.

pics, Teen Vogue

the pink palette.

2010-04-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

summer is my favorite time of the year, hence why this photoshoot uber-inspired me. these photos prove that pink can be fierce while simultaneously exhibiting major girl power.

I want to be where the waves are crashing…

where tree trunks are the color of bubblegum…

...yet I am more than thankful that I am not the one who holds the stars in the sky.

p.s. add a little edge to the ruffles.

pics, Vogue Paris

hippie in my genes.

2010-04-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

tribal statements interest me because they are so natural, yet bright colors are part of their palette. the style requires mindless effort: go with the flow, throw on what feels right, whether it matches or not. although I am a bit Type A, this is a way I express my spontaneous free spirit.

pic, Angela Fink fashion

pic, LOVE blog

reversing self imposed bondage…putting an end to being the same.

2010-04-12T12:23:00.000-07:00

Hanneli Mustaparta

I have too often heard these precise words: "I like this shirt/skirt/jeans/pair of sunglasses/fill in the blank, but I could never pull it off." My question to you is, hOw Do yOu KnOw? and why not?? Assumptions are almost never based in truth, and lies are almost always tied to a fear.

Is your Fashion Fear connected to something deeper?? Yes, the term "fashion" is often dubbed a synonym to vanity, but I beg to wonder if this negative label is excused as an accurate connotation in order to avoid an avenue that requires vulnerability and personal exposure to the public.

I believe all of this hiding and self consciousness comes from an unreachable standard that we have all created, yet it is something we all claim to despise. so let's put an end to it.

Our society needs to stop camoflauging into our idols. Instead, we must learn that the result of inspiration is not being a copy-cat, but rather it should be used to motivate our individual visions and further cultivate our personalities.

Challenge for SS 2010: rock the look you think you could never pull off. there is freedom in self expression, in risk taking, and in conquering the challenge.

Hanneli Mustaparta

the absense of color.

2010-04-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

I can't get enough. Just because the fabrics are natural does not mean that your makeup has to pop either. Keep it all simple.

the military example.

pic, Vogue

the ultra-feminine example.

pic, Vogue UK

the structured example.

pic, Vogue UK

strides to good behavior.

2010-04-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

the blazer: it's always forgiving.

Hanneli Mustaparta exemplifies menswear in its most epic form--epic meaning unbelievably chic and current. Who said high color contrast was necessary for rallying attention? Rather, contrast silhouettes. In this case: tailored and slouchy make a perfect match.

pic, Hanneli Mustaparta

Kick it back in decades and comfortability. Take notice of your shape, and pick the correct jacket length. The boyfriend blazer is perfect with some old school jeans and and stiletto booties. Remember: the longer the jacket, the higher the heel should be.

Anna Selezneva, models

Head turning happens with simple pieces. Black blazer on black is anything but depressing. Don't be afraid to incorporate accessories that carry stereotypical attribution because they only add spice to your life.

stay hydrated.

2010-04-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

Vogue Nippon, photo, models

photo by Jennefer Wilson

hype.

2010-04-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

head to toe adoration, supplied by Bergdorf trends.

gisele: the person and the character

2010-03-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

From Utopia's coasts to Boston's city, Gisele gives us a little insight into her life this month in Vogue. I was so intrigued by this interview because it shows the reality of the celebrity life and one of the coping mechanisms that I assume is common even for the ordinary person. I thought I would share a little tid bit:

"People were asking, 'How does it feel to be the model of the moment?' It was hard for me to answer as myself. I barely spoke English. I thought, I have to give my best because they trust me with that. I invented this other person, and she could do everything. She wasn't afraid; she was able to be ballsy and risky and sexy or androgynous. She was bold. I had to believe in myself as this person that was strong, up-front, invincible, and positive, who knew what she was doing, even though I really didn't. I've worked for fourteen years, but I don't think anybody in business really knows me, because there is that other person."

encouragement: the willingness to be known.

modern minimalism.

2010-03-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

stay in this zone. mimic the Paris runways, mirror this idea with your clothes.

pic, Elle

destination known.

2010-03-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

A wise person once told me that walking with purpose creates energy and influences others. I believe it, and I want to live in such a way.

I adore everything about this essemble…everything. I never knew a chambray shirt could inspire me as much as it is. Work this look for spring.

Navy and black, stovepipe trousers, doubled breasted velvet, and BLONDE. Walk this way.

pic, altamira blog

Khaki gives us a little break from denim for spring. We may need it every now and then since head to toe denim is being thrown into the mix. Bold neutrals go a long way. Take advantage.

pic, the sartorialist

Thank you Ralph. Motorcycle seams on khaki: genius. I'm glad it's not rude to stare at pictures.

pic, the sartorialist

I'm ready to be amidst the streets of speeding gold again.

cut. it. out.

2010-03-20T21:21:00.000-07:00

literally.

pic, victoria

peace and fashion.

2010-03-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

Gotta love her.

the shoe for spring.

2010-03-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

The Olsen's never made a shoe look so good with this Elizabeth and James CLOG. Chanel made it glamorous as well.

dance.

2010-03-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

via Lola

love.

2010-03-10T09:10:00.001-08:00

pose.

2010-03-10T09:09:00.001-08:00

be you.

2010-03-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

me in a nutshell.

Khakis are back, roll them up, and throw on a slouch boot.

when it's wrong, re-right it.

2010-03-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

this is how your style forms.

via Lola

don't close your eyes...

2010-03-10T08:44:00.000-08:00

...don't sleep in the car. You never know what will inspire you. paraphrased words from the one and only--creative director of Vogue.

grace Coddington: A fire-cracker who explodes with whimsical attributes, an appreciative eye for the beauty in creation and the splendor in humanity, and idealistic tendencies that turn her imaginative sparks into dreams and pictures. Courageous to fight for charm that stuns and artistry that twinkles, she is a gem that often gets overlooked. Notice her work, take part in her passion. Step into her ferocious world of fantasy, and let it capture you for a moment!

Merci, Dior.

2010-03-10T07:20:00.000-08:00

Slightly Alice? I am crazy about the thigh-high boots and the knee socks: it's about time this trend made its return. Elegance exudes from the ruffles, the pleated blazer, the combination of earth and blush tones, and that HAIR.

via Vogue

still feminine.

2010-03-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a desired end is achieved through opposite means. Create extreme femininity through masculine apparel. Remember though: slouchy does not mean ill-fitting. Also, intertwine more structured pieces than non. Contrast a stiletto with a baggy jean. Relax a blazer by rolling up the sleeves. Soften a bold watch with skinny bangles.

via Lola

city and nature juxtaposed.

2010-02-28T17:22:00.000-08:00

I have realized my heart can be in both places at once.

pic, david hamilton

the disheveled fringe.

2010-02-27T21:30:00.000-08:00

This trend is fantastic. It is messy sophistication--a trend that is as a whole- a contradiction. It is deliberate disarray. Prim and proper is walking the runway, but for some reason, it does not personally inspire me. Eyes are not in full clearance, and hair takes over if you choose this look.

Louise Goldin

Alexander Wang

finish your fajitas.

2010-02-27T16:47:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, I lost a silly bet with my friend Curt. The repercussions were finally played out and are displayed below. My expectations of this night were very low: low meaning I thought the outfit would be absolutely humiliating. To my relief and surprise, the outfit was pretty darn cute: cute meaning I was a little disappointed in their attempt to embarrass me. These are the reasons why:

This outfit hit the following trends: layering, sequins, mixed patterns, double breasted silhouette (trend forecast for fall 2010), kitten heels, and an exaggerated shoulder. Way to go guys!

Props to: Curt Steinhorst and Billy Dechert. Call them if you need a stylist :)

the mad hatter meets alice.

2010-02-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

Get pumped for Alice in Wonderland. This is one of my favorite shoots with Lindsey Brittain and Ryan Ray. Their visions are impeccable. The results...a little taste of the magical world.

pieces of a whole.

2010-02-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

The standard suit has become an option rather than a monopoly. Designers took the cut out trend to an unsafe place that is oh so wonderful. This proves true: something that seems so wrong can be so right. This is the case with the divided silhouette. City girl, here is your new business venture for the year.

Alexander Wang.

Richard Nicoll.

McQueen cut-out zip pump.

model style.

2010-02-22T20:12:00.000-08:00

Menswear worn right.

avatar lenses.

2010-02-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

Yikes!!

braids, minus its twin and the french part.

2010-02-18T19:06:00.000-08:00

When I was little, I would beg my dad to braid my hair like Pippi Longstocking. I knew I was just trend-forecasting...Maybe I should stop fooling myself and just give gratitude to Alexander Wang for bringing it back.