sunday obsessions: blushing ambition

 

i drink too much coffee

 

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easy breezy

One of my favorite things about Blushing Ambition is the whole urban-city-effortless thing she has going on.  There's something so relaxing and chic to her style that doesn't seem planned or overly accessorized.
Some can rock this style (see above), and others look more Ke$ha-does-K-Mart when they try (like me).  I'm super excited to see some of her fall looks.

friday inspire

Although my heart may be holding out for fall, my body is still stuck in the miserable heat of August.  I suppose I should embrace what can be celebrated today, which is why I'm sharing this little post.  I'm working on creating an outfit(s) that goes along with the trends of lace, florals, and neutrals; and this is my inspiration board.  Yes, you're getting a sneak peak behind the madness method that is my thinking process. 

Also, have you guys discovered the Style Bloggers Map?  I'm most likely to trusting, but how neat to be able to meet up with others bloggers in your area/state.  If you love blogging for the fashion community, check out the little map located underneath the friends/followers section to the right.  

weekly posh

By popular demand, I have temporarily given up my obsession of the coral/blue combo for the a palette of pastels/earth tones.  I think it suits me.

I've been on the hunt for a white blazer for quite some time, but white can be such a weird color on me--in spite of my tan.  While mall bargain-hunting is typically something I try to avoid, I grazed into the Gap found this little gem on clearance.  It was not only clearance but also had another ridiculous percentage taken off and it ended up costing $10.  My experiences in malls are typically draining and disappointing, but the Gap has a tendency to be my fashion Hail Mary in the 4th quarter.

I'm thinking about doing a fall remix of this outfit by adding tights, boots, and a darker bag.  Yes fashionistas, the temp highs are lower 80s this week; and I'm preparing for the most wonderful time of the year:  Fall Fashion.

Wearing:  blazer, top (gap); shorts (h&m); shoes (kohls); bag (thrift)

that's mighty wide of you

I would apologize for my absence, but I'm sure most of you understand a much needed break after the remix challenge.  I honestly didn't know how to dress myself and almost had a mental breakdown when I entered my closet with freedom.  There were too many possibilities.  I short-circuited.

Upon recovery, I made myself get out of bed on the 5th morning and choose items I had never featured before. Voila. I know you're all surprised to see that I own other jeans that aren't the skinny style.

Also sometime during the Remix, I became a diva.  This was a morning shoot; and I simply wasn't having it. Be grateful for the one smile you got in the first picture. I'm adding "evening shoots only" to my contract. :P

Works Cited:  shirt, bag (thrift); jeans (gap); shoes (old navy); necklace (xxi)

sunday obsessions: Lucy Laucht

http://www.lucylaucht.com/

http://www.lucylaucht.com/

http://www.lucylaucht.com/

Before my blog existed, I would read Lucy's blog in astonishment.  Her artful and chic creations were somehow always so simple and detailed but provided a complexity when trying to replicate.  She was foundational in starting my blog...so if you love me, then thank her.  If you've never visited or follow her style, you're in for such a treat.

Summer Remix Review

I realized throughout the process that remixes are less about the clothes, and more about the accessories.  Belts, bags, statement necklaces, etc. made the outfits for me.  Without clever accessorizing, it was just a skirt and a shirt.  So the next time you feel like splurging, maybe head to the thrift store and grab a belt or bag-- that's what I do. 

Seeing all the looks together, it's kinda hard to believe I had that much creativity. I think my favorite looks are 20, 22, and 27; but I think 5 and 25 earned me the Best Remix Costume for my Rosie the Riveter and Creep outfits.

What I would do differently next time:
--More varying shoes:  brown and black pairs only? really?
--less cardigans.
--more patterned tops.
--broadening my color wheel. I was pretty obsessed with coral when I picked my items.

Share your own favorites and/or remix tips!

30. finale

Well folks, here we are.  I really didn't think I would complete the challenge; but if Kendi was giving out superlatives, I would be nominated for the Slow-and-Steady-Wins-the-Race award or Most-Likely-to-use-Sarcasm.  Okay...and maybe Best Hair per your lovely compliments.

I think I'm only saying because it's over (and people have a tendency to be way more optimistic once the struggle/anxiety has passed), but I'm looking forward to Fall Remix.  It may have to be October for me because that's when it finally gets cool here.    

Works Cited:  belt (thrift); shoes (urban outfitters); dress (aerie); headband (xxi)

29. flattery will get you everywhere

I'm typically bashful when it comes to photo shoots where crowds of people gather.  But sometimes you have to face the anxiety and smile while there are flamboyant fans hollering at you from apartment windows.  Yes, this really happened.  However, I wasn't the only one who caught their eye.  When they eyed my husband, he was told "to work it too!"  I'd be lying if I said I wasn't flattered.  The "fabulous" stamp of approval is quite an honor in Columbus, Ohio; and Jared and I are clearly a power couple.  Maybe he needs to be featured on the blog. 

Works Cited:  shoes, belt (thrift); shorts (jcrew); tank, necklace (h&m); bag (target)

Sunday Obsessions: Atlantic-Pacific

Starting now and from every Sunday on, I will be posting favorite blogs that I follow that make laugh, cry, covet, or inspire.  I seem to file blogs into 2 categories:  those that challenge my creativity and those that post outfits that I would actually wear.

One of the things that I love about blogging is the feel of the community.  It's not a competition or a rat race for most views, followers, or sponsors--but a genuine interest in what bonds us all:  fashion.

My best friend and fashion godmother introduced Atlantic-Pacific to me.  She is a master of layering, coloring, and style.  Here are some of my favorite looks:

Swing

Mellow Yellow

Want more? Check out the blog

28. puppy love

Chunky and I have been spending a lot of time together lately.  That's what happens when you don't have a job...eating and sleeping can really take a lot of a person and dog.  I grew up with cats, which share a similar attitude to mine; but no one ever prepared me for how much love I could feel for a dog.  And the 70 lb meatloaf featured here has stolen my heart.  Word on the street:  Chunky's mom is due with another litter in 6 weeks.  I think he may need a playmate. 

Works Cited:  jeans (old navy); shirt, clutch, watch (thrift); cardi (gap); shoes (payless)

27. birds of a feather

If you're thinking that the top was not featured on my 30 items, then you have an impeccable memory and keen observation skills.  However, this is not a top but a scarf--remix free pass.  I forget where I saw this, but it is a blog that I typically read.

If you want to do the scarf top, I'd recommend getting a larger one (obviously) with thicker material.  I love this one, but the thinness of it did not hold its shape the best.  If you're worried about bulk under a cardigan, go with a silk one. 

Works Cited:  bag (target); belt & scarf (thrift); skirt & headband (xxi); cardigan (h&m); shoes (urban outfitters)

fashion do: modesty

c/o The Telegraph

I recently received a lovely comment from a reader who found my blog on weardrobe.  She informed me that she would be featuring one of my posts today on Ruby-Eyed Okapi and later on Justice Pirate.  Both blogs are incredibly neat and fashionable with the emphasis on modesty in fashion, which got me thinking.  Oh yes, I have thoughts. And opinions.  Look out.

c/o of ELIZA Blog

I enjoy a wide variety of fashion style and various blogs' persepctives, but I sometimes find myself annoyed at the idea of prostituting oneself out in the name fashion.  While it is not my intention to be harsh or judgmental towards self-expression, I think someone has to say,

"You are not only advertising fashion, but also yourself. So what does your message say?" 

This question is not exclusive to bloggers, but all who present themselves in the general public.  In the event this sounds a little too preachy, let me tell you what my clothes say about me today:  she looks comfortable, but has to be crazy for wearing long-sleeves and jeans in the middle of summer. 

PS--modesty does not equal boring.

26. cool never fades

According to this month's In Style, denim shirts are workin' there way right into fall staples.  In retrospect, I wish mine were a little bigger, but there's something about wearing fitted clothes in summer and oversized layers in cooler seasons.  So in a few months, I'll be layering this little jem with leggings, scarf, and boots.  I just felt a twinge of excitement as I was writing that.... With temps reaching the 90s, I find myself missing big sweaters and knee boots. Who's ready for fall fashion? It's my favorite time of the year.