Tastes Eclectic Fashion

2011-05-21T18:08:00.003-05:00

I've been thinking about this pretty consistently for the past month or so. I really enjoy blogging but Tastes Eclectic Fashion has started to feel really stagnant. I can't say I look on blogging with much joy when I don't like the routine I've fallen into.

So I've decided to start from scratch. I made a completely new blog with a completely new e-mail. This will be a place where I can blog whatever I feel like sharing (fashion, writing, photography, whatever). I won't hesitate to post what I want as I have started to do on this blog.

Mostly I want to stop the censoring I've gotten myself into. I'm going to post frequently (outfits less regularly but they will be there). Already I feel better about this new blog.

I'm not deleting this one as it's been a journey for me, a way of discovering what I actually want to do with blogging. I want to have something to look back on.

I am aware that blog moves can sometimes diminish followers. I hope some of you decide to come with me to this new place!

Click the photo for a direct link. If it makes things any easier, I'll probably still comment regularly on many of your blogs but from my new one.

Hope to see you there!

May 2011

2011-05-18T14:01:00.003-05:00

Source: Private

I take photos of myself and really don't want to post them. You have no idea how frequently this happens. I promised I'd post an outfit and so I have. Sorry about these. I've added some photos I've taken as the seasons fully change here in the upper Midwest. They're much prettier.

Culture, Commodity and Fashion Blogging

2011-05-15T17:54:00.001-05:00

I’ve long struggled with the balance of contradicting pieces of my identity. The most persistent example comes in the form of fashion. I have a firm belief that consumerism is marketed to people as a way to identify themselves. Or, in other words, ‘buy and be a unique individual.’ As I’m not a big fan of mindless consumerism or the idea that stuff can define your personality, I look upon fashion consumerism with some disdain.

I would be amiss if I didn’t acknowledge that I am of this contemporary world. It is because of this that I struggle. My entire life I’ve been led by the surrounding world to believe that things can help me structure who I am. This is utterly nonsensical, I’m aware. Still, I cannot say with any certainty that I don’t like things. Of course I do. I also like fashion. Which, again, is counterintuitive of my internal beliefs.

My actions have lately been of careful consideration. I’ve tried my hardest to acknowledge both parts of me. I’ve been careful with my purchases and thoughtful about why I want to buy things in the first place. It’s rather tiresome and often makes me feel terribly guilty but I’ll continue doing it because I simply cannot go back to being blind.

The other problem I have with the fashion industry is how it treats culture. It views culture as a useful commodification That can be profited off of the same consumerist principle I previously described. As someone who values culture, someone who is of Ojibwe, Puerto Rican and Scottish descent, I cannot condone the endless appropriation of ethnic cultures. Granted I am most attune to Native American appropriation as I am, in fact, Native. This does not mean I am unaware of the appropriation of many other cultures and religions (see this, for example). This extends pretty much everywhere minority cultures are colonized and oppressed by Western society. *

I must make note that I am human and I make mistakes. I do not intentionally mean to appropriate cultures but, living in the United States, I do so daily. I fight these things by constant vigilance and awareness. I become greatly offended by the nonchalance of others when confronted with claims of injustice by peoples of appropriated cultures

The only way I can see of helping to cure this general cultural insensitivity is to write about it. I’ve written a very lengthy paper about this. Once it has gone through a few more drafts I will be putting it up in installations. I want to make clear that I don’t do so to attack anyone. I do so to encourage discussion and learning. If you happen to feel attacked, I would apologize but I don’t see it necessary as I am merely utilizing my voice as an individual that feels affected by appropriation.

Please stay tuned for more thoughtful, fashion-oriented pieces.

____

*I would like to make clear that the concept of “whiteness” is normalized and does little justice to the array of European cultures and I try very hard to refer to all groups by their preferred association (i.e. English, Irish, Polish, etc.)

Upcoming:

-Outfit posts!

A Particular Age

2011-05-10T19:21:00.003-05:00

Scotland, Sense and Sensibility (1995), Jane Eyre (Masterpiece Theatre, 2006), castles, plant-life, Becoming Jane (2007), up-do's, Jane Austen. Click for source.

I've just finished British Literature 2 and my favorite part of the semester was when we read pieces from the Victorian Age. Now that the semester is over I'm indugling in my love of the era by reading Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, and whatever else tickles my fancy. All while drinking tea liberally and trying to go outside despite rain/terrible humidity.

Ah summer!

Dichotomy

2011-05-08T14:00:00.002-05:00

Barbara Palvin in Chanel Haute Couture, SS 2011//little plastic horses

"Bal Masque," Vogue Paris, October 2010//Mariacarla Boscono by Mert & Marcus//wobblinbetty

February, 2009.

2011-05-02T22:21:00.002-05:00

Source: Private

Just started browsing old photos. I was such a goth kiddie. Or maybe I still am as I still own everything visible in this picture and have worn most of it in the last 4 months.

Rosemary

2011-05-01T19:01:00.002-05:00

1. Michelle Williams in Interview Magazine, May 2011, photos by Mikael Jansson (Source)

2-5. Rosemary's Baby, 1968 (Source, Source, Source)

Alibi

2011-04-27T13:26:00.002-05:00

So aside from being a title to a Dessa song (check out the video at the end), this post is to explain my absence. The past week I've let my blogroll reading get super cluttered and I claim a few reasons.

1) I've been super busy with school, as I mentioned in the last couple of posts. I've just written a paper outline for 1960's American Indian activism (I prefer American Indian to Native American) and privilege that leads into the cultural appropriation we see today (I might be sharing on this topic soon)

(click for source)

2) The weather is making me crazy and I can't focus long enough on my computer screen. It will get super nice before dropping 20 degrees. The trees and shrubs are budding, however, and this confuses my mind even more. Newscasters keep talking about snow and I'm wondering if this confusion is normal in Minnesota. You'd think I'd know , what with being born and raised here.

3) I'm just being lazy and sitting around sipping tea. Oh, and listening to Dessa on repeat.

A Brief Spell

2011-04-25T11:40:00.002-05:00

Sources: weheartit/vis.ualize/tumblr

I have a couple weeks left of semester. I might be a bit absent until then but I'll try to read and comment as much as possible (and update every now and then with something).

A Beautiful Ending

2011-04-20T18:11:00.002-05:00

Source: Personal

I've been attending a community college for the past three years and I've finally decided it's time to transfer to a four-year university. I've filled out applications, decided on a great school and am finishing up my semester as best as I know how.

I don't know if I've ever mentioned it but I'm double majoring in American Studies and American Indian Studies. I also don't know if I've ever mentioned that I'm Ojibwe (along with Puerto Rican and Scottish). Yesterday I had my American Studies course (The 60's: Culture vs. Counter-Culture) I was asked to give a mini lecture/discussion opening on cultural appropriation. I felt it went quite well despite my initial nerves. My classmates were exceptionally attentive and understanding and the conversation that followed my presentation was thought-provoking. I was thanked by a few people and my teacher said I did quite well.

He also said I'm going to make a good teacher. I'm still riding cloud 9, if you can't tell. It just felt good getting the topic talked about. It also felt good knowing that my voice was appreciated and that I evoked thoughtfulness in others. If this is anything like teaching really is I think I've finally made the right choice.

I really couldn't think of how different my life would be if I hadn't gone to this school out of high school. The experiences, the courses, the extraordinary teachers and respectful peers have all given me something that is invaluable. I couldn't ask for a better ending to this period of my life.

Kind of Like A Chopin Nocturne

2011-04-18T10:42:00.002-05:00

Unité d’Habitation, Marseille, 1952 by Lucien Hervé.

Click photos for source.

There's a reason I adore black and white photography. It's in the distributed tones of white and black. There's something about the winding of grays on paper. Black and white photography can be serene and it can be menacing. It is always beautiful. When I think of black and white photos I can hear Chopin playing somewhere in the distance. Even more so if I imagine returning to a dark room and getting my hands dirty. You throw in some stunning architecture and I'm pretty much sure to stare for heaps of time.

If you can't tell I've been listening to classical music and looking for gorgeous black and white photos. Enjoy!

Daydreaming of something warmer

2011-04-17T11:22:00.003-05:00

Sources: Click photos for source.

I shouldn't be surprised. Living in the Midwest all my life has taught me that weather can be unpredictable. I'm used to hearing friends and family chirp those familiar words when I complain about the cold weather/muggy weather/rainy weather/anything but high 60's-low 70's sunny.

"You live in Minnesota."

That's why I'm not at all surprised it snowed Saturday. Not at all surprised that if I stepped out of my warm house today it would be chilly and windy. I'm not going to though. I'll stay in my room studying and looking up at my warm toned wood blinds and delude myself into thinking it is in fact sunny and beautiful out. In between said studying I'll gaze longing at photos of Southern California and dream fiercely about May. It can't snow in May in Minnesota can it?

Of course it can.

Flashback Friday: October 1998

2011-04-14T22:54:00.002-05:00

Publication: "Cutting off the Unnecessary," Vogue Russia October 1998//Photographer: Neil Kirk//Model: Helena Christensen//Source:tfs

Happy (early) Friday!

Fight Song

2011-04-12T10:21:00.002-05:00

Blazer: thrifted; Marilyn Manson concert T, thrifted; leggings, "stolen"; boots, Demonia. Source: Personal

It's so incredibly nice out over here in the Midwest. 60's and 70's and just the right amount of wind. I'm in love! I still haven't worn a dress but I have an event I'm going to Saturday and I might try that. We'll see.

In any case, this post is to show I had the motivation to take photos of my rather bland outfit. I had class today and this felt comfortable enough and made me feel more like "Me" than I have in a while. I think part of that was the weather that made me giddy-it does wonders for my mood.

Pretty in McQueen

2011-04-10T19:46:00.000-05:00

Alexander McQueen, Fall/Winter 2011.
Source: hearty chic

You cannot beat a beautiful black and white photo of a beautiful creation.

Flashback Friday: November 1997

2011-04-08T15:00:00.001-05:00

Publication: "Bits of Fluff," Vogue US, November 1997//Photographer: Wolfgang Tillmans//Fashion Editor: Camilla Nickerson//Model: Naomi Campbell//source: tfs; scanned by kanna

I'll be starting this new segment. Every friday I'll be posting editorials (or snippets) from the past (i.e. before 2010). This is just my way of sharing the goodies I've found as of late. Hope you all enjoy it!

"I am a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That's me."

2011-04-06T19:04:00.000-05:00

Source: Private/Mom's scrapbook

So that post I was excited about? Well here it is.

I'm pretty much keeper of my family's old photos. As a photographer I tend to get the responsibility, not that I mind. I actually really enjoy looking through them and planning archival projects. These photos are part of our family collection.

This is my mother in the 80's. I got her permission and I'm super thrilled because I think she's incredibly inspiring. In high school she got a mohawk (as seen in the first photo), pierced her nose in a mall bathroom and made most of her own clothing. In general, I think she's inspiring because-well, she's gorgeous. Though she might disagree I've always been adamant that my mom is beautiful.

I wanted to share these all with you because I get so much inspiration at looking at these photos. I do wish I had been able to find a better photo of her mohawk but I've included the first one anyway.

Needless to say, I'd really appreciate it if these photos remained on my blog.

Title quote, "Phenomenal Woman," Maya Angelou

Instead

2011-04-04T23:41:00.003-05:00

sources: here & here & here

(you might have to go to youtube to watch this but I highly recommend it.)

My post for today was originally on Free People catalogues as I keep getting them in the mail and I do appreciate the mini magazine inspiration as they are much more portable than a thick and heft fashion magazine. However I thought about it and decided I didn't care for it enough. I spent all day trying to think of what to post instead and I couldn't come up with anything.

So I settled on Edith Piaf and Adele as I've been listening to these two women quite frequently lately. I find they are both incredibly inspirational, especially when working on my National Poetry Month challenge (30 poems in 30 days).

I've scheduled that post I was talking about in the last one-the post I'm super excited about. It should be available on Sunday if I don't get anxious and move it forward because I can't take the suspense.

35 mm in 2010

2011-04-02T15:03:00.003-05:00

Source:private(flickr)

So I've finally gotten around to scanning some of my film prints. It only took me about three months!

I'd like to make one thing clear because nature is spectacular. The last one isn't the ocean. It's Lake Superior as shot from a beach in Duluth (MN). It is absolutely gorgeous and incredibly large-as a Great Lake should be, I guess.

Expect more photos from me very soon and a special post that I'm really excited about!

Also, thank you to the new followers. I hope you enjoy. :D

Accessories March 29th, 2011

2011-03-30T11:43:00.002-05:00

[faux] amber pendant, silver ankh, wing ring, wood and bead earrings, silver ear cuff.

source: private

I don't know about any of you but I buy jewelry and keep it for ages. Most of my jewelry isn't "authentic" meaning it's not made of precious stones and metals. That ring, for example, is something I bought at Claire's when I was in middle school.

The amber pendant was just hanging out in mom's jewelry box before I borrowed it (meaning took it because she never wore it-oops) and it's been in my collection for the past five or six years. The wood earrings were gifted (so naturally I've kept them). The ankh and the earring cuff are the youngest pieces and perhaps that's why they are worn so often. Either that or the simplistically and size allows me to wear them alone or layered.

The Doc. Martens were thrown in because I got really bored with their plain scuffed up look and decided to exchange the laces (I took these from a pair of beat-up knee high lace-ups) and wrap a very old silver belt around them. If you can't tell the belt is broken but that didn't ever convince me to get rid of it. I've been wearing it as a bracelet/necklace/belt for (and this might be embarrassing but whatever) for almost 14 years. Ever since I was a little kid (this belt broke at age 7) I've had this intense appreciation for silver. In fact, I have to really challenge myself to wear gold (or gold-plated) pieces.

Anyway, these are the pieces I've been wearing pretty often lately. My go-to pieces are pretty simple. I don't have many "statement" pieces anyway.

Flashback: 1998

2011-03-28T11:16:00.000-05:00

publication: "suburban outfitters," W magazine, july 1998//photographer: mario sorrenti//model: kirsten owen//source: tfs

In my procrastination the past week I've spent many hours (yes hours) browsing through old editorials. I'm finding I'm drawn to a lot of 90's spreads. I don't think it's necessarily due to the fact that I'm in love with the clothing (though there are so really lovely minimalist pieces that I can imagine working with). I think it's really the photography that draws me in. A lot of the editorials I've been seeing have some of the most amazing photography. There just feels like more substances in the work. Maybe I'm just so incredibly sick of seeing blown out, Terry Richardson-esque stories.

Of course this isn't to say that I am not fond some work as of late. There are some really amazing photographers out there.

I don't know. Maybe it's just my overall nostalgia for the 90's that draws me.

When there was a hint of spring

2011-03-27T14:00:00.002-05:00

Source: Private

These were taken the day before it snowed after last week. I was incredibly bummed as we had just gotten rid of nearly 3 feet of snow because of warmer weather. Oh well, you'd think I'd learn not to get my hopes up in March.

Serene

2011-03-24T11:11:00.002-05:00

sources: pink bow/rouge fox/tfs/knight cat/the velvet bow

This is my tribute/longing for spring. Definitely ready for all of this. Especially the color of nature come back to life. Of course it would be my luck that it snowed quite a bit yesterday and is supposed to remain below freezing for at least the next four days.

If you'd like to know the bits from editorials (photographers, models, publications, etc) just let me know and I can throw it up. I save everything really. I just didn't want to clutter these images with more writing than necessary.

Elizabeth.

2011-03-23T10:43:00.003-05:00

Sources: beforesix/tumblr/vintagegal/everything's beautiful here

This kind of felt like a more necessary post than what I had planned.

I don't think I have anything else to say.

Predating November 2010

2011-03-20T18:25:00.002-05:00

source:private

I spent nearly 25 dollars getting a roll of black and white film processed. Makes me think I should just sneak my way into the school darkroom. At that price I could have done a few rolls and chosen my own prints...oh well.

I'm working on an archaeology project on costume jewelry and, while it's super frustrating (finding reliable and useable sources is a pain), it's giving me quite the view of fashion and trends in the past. It makes me feel all knowledgeable! I'll be a mini-expert on costume jewelry by the end of this thing (the end of the semester). I might be sharing some of the information I've gathered as some of this stuff is absolutely gorgeous.

An American Prayer

2011-03-16T19:47:00.003-05:00

white blouse, H&M; sheer black blouse, American Apparel; leather vest, thrifts; Harley boots, borrowed from mom; all jewelry gifted

Look! An outfit post! The weather is getting super nice and I thought I'd take that good feeling and put it into an outfit post for you all. This outfit is probably the outcome of reading a lot of Jim Morrison's poetry (if you haven't been able to tell I'm quite obsessed with Morrison and The Doors).

I originally thought the white blouse would be my choice but I can't quite seem to get out of my dark monochromatic clothing. I usually try on colors and then at the last minute-literally five minutes before I have to be out the door-I revert back to my comfort zone. Does anyone else do that?

I also don't usually go anywhere near gold (or gold plated) jewelry but I love this necklace so much.

Also, note to self: get un-patterned jeans in black.

"Let me write a paper..."

2011-03-08T22:44:00.003-06:00

So this lucky lady got to write a paper on Jim Morrison/The Doors for her 60's counterculture class. It's not anywhere near as amazing as I want it to be because it's basically a rough draft. The good news is that my teacher is the absolute best and he's very lax on things that other academia-driven professionals are up-tight assholes about (yeah, I said it, it's the truth). So I'm going to revise the hell out of it, narrow it down and make it a philosophical exploration of The Doors' message of authenticity as it coincides with the 60s. Woo! I'm excited.

So in celebration of that I'm posting some Doors photos I've scanned/taken photos of (if you're interested these all came out of The Doors: An Illustrated History by Danny Sugerman).

Source: personal

Now I'm off to read blogs and reply as I've fallen behind in the last week!

Man Made

2011-03-06T13:53:00.002-06:00

Spiral Jetty, Great Salt Lake, Utah.
1. 1970 by Gianfranco Gorgoni (source: history of our world)
2. Aerial view, 2003 by David Maisel(source: history of our world)

Some geographical beauty for you all. I hope you all had a good weekend.

Madness

2011-03-02T19:39:00.003-06:00

Publication: "Audace Manifeste," Vogue Paris, March 2011

Photographer: Mikael Jansson

Models: Missy Raydar, Arizona Muse,

Styling: Giovanna Battaglia

Source: tfs (see whole editorial here)

I realized that my last few posts were very heavy in black and white imagery and when I found this I decided it was just the thing to spice up the color. Of course, one black and white shot found its way inside because I apparently cannot resist (but can you blame me, this editorial is amazing).

I have a couple questions for you all.

1. What image uploader do you use?

2. Should I 'minimalize' my sidebar, meaning should I declutter?

-or-

Should I change my layout to maximize image potential?

Just wondering what your thoughts are.

2011-02-27T10:56:00.000-06:00

Source: WOBBLINBETTY

Source: Tastes Eclectic Fashion

Flashback, Volt Magazine//Alice Dellal by Joost Vandebrug

No words necessary.

Black and White

2011-02-24T20:26:00.003-06:00

publication: "Do They Nomi," Ponytail Magazine Spring/Summer 2010//model: unknown//photographer: Philipp Mueller

Thank you to those of you who commented on my last post. I'm glad some people responded because I had this sinking feeling no one would. I know how difficult it is to think about all the awful things in the world.

Anyway, I'm trying to work out more outfit posts (I say that a lot don't I?) but I only had one class this past week and have been using it to fill out college transfer applications so I haven't really been out at all-plus I'm at my boyfriend's and I've left my camera at home.

So until Monday-more pretty images [that I don't own]!

Awareness

2011-02-22T11:59:00.003-06:00

Hoor Hussain, 6, in Bahrain (source)

There's been a lot going on this week and I've been a bit distracted (no London Fashion Week image perusing for this girl). With violent governmental resistance to protesters in Libya, Bahrain and Algeria, silent protests in Iran, and earthquakes in New Zealand (and who know's what else has flow under my radar), the world is a very sad place.

I feel like I need to take the time to say that what is happening in the Middle East will not go away because we're too afraid to look at it. Further more, it is very sad, yes, but we need to acknowledge what is happening and what will happen.

We are all human beings. It does not matter if we are seperated by political governments or miles of ocean. We must support our brothers and sisters of humanity.

(source)

With the atrocities going on we should not look away. We should not care more about a 16 year old popstar's haircut than the loss of lives-lives lost fighting for freedom, fighting unjust dictators who are willing to kill them all just to stay in power.

(Source)

I know I cannot force anyone to pay attention to what is happening overseas (I have enough trouble getting people to pay attention to what's going on here in the U.S.), but I hope this post at least brought this into some of your hearts. I hope this post is a reminder that we are all part of something so much bigger than ourselves.

(source)

(source)

Egyptian demonstrators in Cairo (source)

Further readings on Libya (because there isn't much else for Algeria or Bahrain):
Mother Jones: What's Happening in Libya Explained
Al Jazeera

Al Jazeera Twitter

Ben Wedeman's Twitter (first Western journalist allowed into Libya)
The Atlantic
Lauren at The Flowershop
Livejournal Live Post (lots of other links and journalists twitters)

A Fine Frenzy

2011-02-19T19:46:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

Source: Burberry S/S 2011 Campaign Video

Some Things I'm Thinking About Lately (because a list seems more timely and sensible)

- AIM in the 60's

- Sugar bushing

- John Trudell

- Vocalists

- Jourdan Dunn

- Patti Smith

- Chunky Jewelry and platform shoes

- Massive amounts of assigned reading

- Harry Potter

- The Oscars

- Writing

Out

2011-02-15T11:57:00.003-06:00

Photo by Wynona Grey, Minneapolis Affair

So my best friend and I were out and about Sunday looking like this. My newest coat (vintage from etsy) coupled with my massive platform boots (because the huge snow banks have been melting creating massive slush puddles) made for an interesting look. It was so nice out. We reached 50 degrees which felt amazing compared to last week's -5 degree weather. Yeah, I'm talking about weather. Hard not to when it rules how I dress and behave. Sometimes I wish I lived somewhere nicer.

That Loved Look

2011-02-12T11:18:00.002-06:00

So my babies, my favorite pair of shoes ever, are starting to look like they're my favorite. They're kind of beat up. I need to polish them. Since I probably won't be wearing them until spring I could do it now but I don't know what box my shoe polish is in. If you can't tell I haven't quite settled into my new place yet.

I take a long time to adjust and it doesn't help that I'm getting new furniture for my room in a few months anyway. It's not helping me feel motivated about unpacking. I promise that an outfit post will be coming this week. In all hoensty I haven't been wearing anything spectacular. It's kind of a uniform of jeans and black shirts because it's too cold to wear anything fun.

"Because something is happening here but you don't know what it is."

2011-02-08T11:14:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

Title: "Ballad of a Thin Man," Bob Dylan

Makeover

2011-02-02T21:19:00.002-06:00

Source: The Design Files

So, as I've stated, I've just moved and am trying to get my feet under me in terms of reorganizing. I've realized I have far too many things that I simply do not want. I've outgrown massive amounts of things and I horde them due to pure nostalgia (this pack rat mentality runs in the family, trust me). So I've decided I'm starting from scratch. Kind of.

I'm going through my closet and getting rid of a vast majority of things. Despite pruning it prior to moving I've come to realize that I only wear about 15-20% of my wardrobe (varies with the season) and so I don't really need to hang on to some of the things I have. I'm also thinking of the possibility of utilizing space. That's where jars and bowls come in. I love them to pieces and I actually have quite a few I store things in. If they look pretty it's even better.

The above ceramics by David Pottinger are simply gorgeous. They definitely fill a place in my interior decorating heart.

However, the home is not the only place I'm thinking of making over. It's probably hard to guess (maybe) that I am completely driven by educating/fighting against world injustices. It is a huge part of my life, my being. Sometimes posting here feels rather shallow and I've hard a very hard time coming to terms with balancing these two very important aspects of my life.

I breathe fashion but activism runs in my blood. The problem? I cannot quite reconcile the fact that the fashion industry is based so much in the world of quick and disposable consumerism. It just doesn't make me feel very warm and fuzzy thinking of people working in sweat shops for mere pennies to create something so that I can fill my closet.

So I've decided that I'm going to start a new mission. I will be buying solely thrift and vintage and when I buy newer things I will try to be making very conscious choices. It's a tough world and there is no reason I should indulge in supporting something that makes my stomach turn.

This lengthy post will be ended by saying that I hope I do not come across as uppity and judgmental. This is a personal choice. This also DOES NOT mean that I am giving up this fashion blog. It's too important an outlet for me. Just expect the occasional politically driven, humanistic post. I will probably keep them few and far between and I will try to gear them towards fashion related issues (as one must know the obvious flaws in the fashion industry inequality).

Again, thank you for following me. And don't fear, this won't change much on this blog.

Unfortunate

2011-01-30T18:34:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

This is my newest jumper. It's everything I've been looking for since I started hunting this fall. I was browsing around Buffalo Exchange and I found it and fell in love.

This is the only good news I have as I'm not living in suburbia which is very strange for me and also makes me incapacitated as far as having a social life. Relying on public transportation is absolutely no fun especially when said transportation doesn't run the way you want. By next fall I will have to either have my driver's license (yeah, I still don't have that at 20 which is sad) or I will have to move out (which, as a college student, is a rather expensive endeavor).

Enough whine-laments from me for now!

Past Wanderer

2011-01-28T13:32:00.005-06:00

John Lennon and Yoko Ono//source: tumblr

Metal #22//Naomi Preizler by Aingeru Zorita//source: dirty flaws

Irina Nikolaeva by Vladmir Vasilchikov//source: tobacco and leather

Handsome Women, Vogue China February 2011//Valeria Kelava by Daniel Jackson//source: fashion gone rogue

Sixities Minute, Harper’s Bazaar US July 2001//Angela Lindvall by Patrick Demarchelier//source: fashion gone rogue

Marie Claire Italia, February 2011//Anabel Van Toledo by Thierry Le Gouès//source: fashion gone rogue

Jim Morrison//source: tumblr

The Velvet Underground//source: the doppelganger

David Bowie, 1971//source: the doppelganger

Jewelry//source: tobacco and leather

An image heavy post for my lovely followers! Really I can't thank you enough for taking the time to check in on what I'm up to.

I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

Changes

2011-01-25T16:39:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

Since I'm moving this week, this has been the pretty standard uniform for the week. Doc Martens, skinnies, sheer blouses and a sweater. Not to mention very warm, woolly socks because it's been cold as hell lately (I'd mention a windchill of -30). Yeah, very original. But when you spend most of the day packing and the other half in class, you kind of can't be enthusiastic about dressing up.

I do have some new stuff I'm excited to style so never fear! I'll be back to less monotonous outfits once I get my room settled.

Counter...culture

2011-01-20T15:20:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

I'm in a 60's counterculture class this semester and I'm already in love with it. I've been waiting to take it for nearly two years now. My favorite professor teaches my favorite subject (well almost favorite). It's fantastic. It only meets once a week but it's 2+ hours of talking about all the things that combined into one of the most thought-about decades in American history (which reminds me, I'm probably going to major in American Studies).

Needless to say it's been influencing pretty much every aspect of my life. So here's my ode and take on bohemian hippie.

Velvet

2011-01-18T16:30:00.003-06:00

Source: Private

Velvet shorts, sheer H&M blouse, JC Litas (again)

Bookstore outfit. Okay, not really. I meant to go to an art fair but didn't make it. So I went to a bookstore (where I spend too much money on books I couldn't resist-more soon). Then it was pizza at this local place where they have delicious garlic bread.

The mask was just lying around as we're moving next week and we haven't packed it yet. I can't resist playing around with that thing. It has a mate but I didn't think of photographing them together.

And my Litas have gotten quite a bit of wear lately. I seriously need to polish them. Winter is not particularly kind to my footwear.

People Are Strange

2011-01-16T10:04:00.002-06:00

A bit of The Doors to get my motor going this very cold morning. It often feels like this is the only thing that can pull me out of bed sometimes. Doors albums are the constant soundtracks to my life. Seriously, I always have them playing. Perhaps it's a bit of an obsession. Would you call it such if I often lost track of what I was doing to belt out lyrics and dance like a crazy woman?

Oh well, I'm content with my love for the The Doors.

Hope your weekends have been fantastic.

Save It

2011-01-14T18:49:00.002-06:00

Ulyana Sergeenko//source: Stockholm Streetstyle

source: Stockholm Streetstyle

Frida Gustavsson//source: tumblr

Missoni SS 2011 Backstage//Sasha Pivovarova by Rokac Darulis//source: tfs

J.Y. Kang//source: STREETFSN

Louise Ebel//source: Pandora

Some inspiring street style + Louise Ebel. Just some things I can't stop looking at this week.

Softie

2011-01-11T22:51:00.003-06:00

Source: Private

Got the cropped shirt at a thrift store. It's the most wonderful, soft fabric ever.

Will comment you all tomorrow. I promise.

Hesitant

2011-01-07T19:33:00.000-06:00

Source: Private

I was very hesitant to post these. I'm not at all loving the way I look but I didn't have anything else planned. Besides, I wasn't doing much that day. Hitting up a crafts store to finish a late Christmas present/early birthday present for a friend.

I've got an extended thrifting outing planned today and I'm way too excited given the state of my wallet at the moment but oh well. I've also got to remember to get about six rolls of film developed. That should cover some posts anyway and I can browse through my gigantic image collection to find stuff I haven't posted before. So inspiration posts to follow, I'm sure!

I'm done rambling now.

ACNE Appreciation

2011-01-05T22:57:00.002-06:00

ACNE SS 2011//source: ilovewildfox

ACNE Pistol Boots//source: LeFahsion

ACNE Admire Wedges//source: tfs

I've been drooling a bit over ACNE the past few weeks. I assume it's something about semi-structural design I've been craving. I also assume it's probably because I'm in love with their shoes. Seriously. I'm still craving the Atacomas.

Class starts back up in a few days and I'm mentally hitting myself for not doing more with my holiday. Which is absurd as I've done quite a lot of fun stuff that was on my list. Still, it always feels like there isn't enough time. I'll continue posting regularly as I've been posting on Chictopia which has got me quite motivated.

Thanks for sticking around!

Coffee on the Second

2011-01-03T11:36:00.003-06:00

Nothing incredibly special. I just went to a late lunch and had coffee with a friend. It was absolutely freezing out despite wearing a velvet blazer and a peacoat. Actually it was well below freezing. The windchill was like -15! Living in Minnesota my entire life has made weather conversation 100% acceptable so please excuse the cliche topic. Weather rules my life. That's kind of meant to be a joke. Kind of.

I also got this lovely brooch in the mail. I got it from In Most Light (on etsy, I really recommend you check her shop out it's lovely). It more than lived up to expectations of what I'd seen online. Simply lovely. I wore it straight away.

Source: Private

Interior Divine

2010-12-31T11:09:00.003-06:00

Bookshelf//source: hard to explain

Crisp and elegant room//source: Kleine Diva in Paris

DIY branch clothing storage/presentation space//source: Love Aesthetics

Workspace (last two above)//source: Here's Looking At Me Kid

Window + Booksehlf//source: Kara Haupt

Jewelry branch//source: Susanna Erkheikki

Photo display//source: Lomography

By Saul Steinberg

Postcards from Penguin (100 Book Cover postcards for 25.00)//Buy HERE
As I'm moving house at the end of January, I've been frantically digging up images of interior decorating. Perhaps that's an exageration as I always look this stuff up. Even more so because I won't be able to properly set my room up until sometime in April but I'm already dreaming.

I've always had a passion for interiors. I picked up a copy of Elle Decor the other day and I am in love. It's gotten me in avery creative mood. I'm just spreading the love with this image heavy post! Once my room is really settled and I'm happy with it (which will be a long time away, I assure you), I'll post photos.

Everyone have a safe and happy New Year! See you in 2011.

Small Time.

2010-12-26T14:41:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

So, no full outfit but I did take pictures of my hair ribbon and my new shoes. I kind of slacked on the picture-taking as I spent most of my holiday talking with my family and generally enjoying random conversation and memories.

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas (to those of you who celebrate). I hope your day was filled with pleasant things (like warm baked goods and family nonsense).

Hello...Goodbye

2010-12-22T16:15:00.005-06:00

Source: Private

So this is what I plan to do over the next few weeks; [re]reading lots of books, [re]watching DVDs I've collected over the semester (some of which I haven't had time to view once), staring adoringly at photos and artwork (The Doors and Rozz Williams) as well as countless other things I haven't photographed (a collage-making, tea-sipping, dog-sitting, crazy writing, photo-taking bonanza).

This is also something I work to a coffee shop earlier this week. Nothing special but plenty of knitted, warm stuff.

Source: Private

I plan on taking more photos around Christmas so I should be updating soon. I may even manage a few editorial posts before Saturday so keep your eye out!

Also, thank you all for following me. I just realized I've reach 50 followers. Thanks so much!

Swan Queen

2010-12-20T20:28:00.002-06:00

Black Swan, 2010 Screencaps//source: Quite Cheeky

I have been waiting for this movie for what feels like ages. With every day that passed and promo shots were released and interviews were conducted, I felt like I was being tortured. Finally it came out and on Friday I went and saw it. Aside from missing the first 15 minutes because of public transportation I was absolutely delighted. It lived up to my expectations and then blew those expectations up. This was a brilliant movie. It's so haunting. I'm still trying to absorb all of the feelings I have about this movie. I highly recommend it to everyone. Really.

And it's probablt my favorite performance by Natalie Portman to date.

Here Comes the Sun

2010-12-16T18:05:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

So here I am in the most unglamorous and unfashionable way possible. I'd apologize if not for the fact that I've just finished my semester (with all A's people!!). Not only have I been feeling uninspired by constant studying/writing, I've also been rather put out by the weather which is bitterly cold after a 17.5 inch blizzard we got last week. So, here I am, unapologetic for almost everything. Except maybe the fact that my bangs are super long as I've been trying to decide whether I should cut them myself or get them trimmed professionally. Advice?

Source: top left to right; Plants and Terriums available at Tortoise Loves Donkey, Minneapolis Snowstorm, Minneapolis Institute of Art by Michael Hartford, Tea by Heidi Schachtscheider.

Anyway, this is primarily what I expect of my month off. I expect to daydream about plants in jars, being snowed in (which is rather helpful when all I want to do is drink tea and be artsy), visit the Minneapolis Institue of Art with my best friend, and drink lots and lots of tea. Coincidentally, that photo of the snowed in cars, yeah that was in my city last Saturday. I told you it was a blizzard.

I'm going to be preparing for christmas which means lots of wrapping paper, hand-made crafts and cards and scraps of magazine. It also means no christmas tree this year as we're moving house in January. We'll make do with smiles and fresh-baked cookies and a rather Charlie Brown looking fake tree adopted for the season from family.

Pictures of something more fashionable will come soon. I can already feel motivation growing now that I've gotten my grades back!

If you read this far, by the way, I applaud you and am leaving you with some Jim Morrison. Have a good weekend!

Source: tumblr

Display

2010-12-15T12:46:00.002-06:00

Damir Doma, Oxia hooded dress/source: Dirty Flaws

I am quite taken with this dress. There's something intriguing about the folds and the hood.

In other news, I've started up a seperate blog for my writing and photography. HERE

Check it out if you like.

Greetings From Finals Hell

2010-12-10T19:44:00.002-06:00

Source: private

So, I promise I'm back as of... Wednesday? I'm finishing off some tests and assignments which is why I've been absent. This has been me for the past two weeks. Sweaters, jeans and my hair up. So glamorous, I know. But it works for me when I'm stressed out. Which I am. Big time.

I also promise to comment back as soon as I can. I've got some major blog reading to do! Until then. <3

Height

2010-12-01T16:16:00.002-06:00

This is what I wore Monday to see Burlesque with my friend. I was feeling adventurous, I guess. As someone who is 5'2" (and 3/4) I tend to avoid maxi dresses and skirts because I always fear they'll make me look shorter. This, however, seemed to work wonderfully. I suspect the added height from the Litas did a lot of the work. That still doesn't change my surprise.

Aside from an obnoxious slit on one side of this dress, I love it. I'll probably stitch it up because it annoyed me all night long.

I've also realized that my mother has a host of great leather belts. It's funny how a few years ago I'd steer clear of my mother's closet but now I sneak in more often than she knows!

Oh, and Burlesque was okay. I liked the choreographer (but it's....burlesque...you know). The singing was pretty good as well (but I guess Christina Aguilera can't be beat with those pipes). And I got a few laughs out of Cher but it was incredibly predictable and very cliche.

Hanging Around

2010-11-30T08:21:00.000-06:00

Sources: staticblackmagic/Vogue Turkey, November 2010, photo by David Dunan (tobaccoandleather)

Draping silhouettes and hanging pieces of knit and material. I can really think of nothing better.

Printed

2010-11-29T13:31:00.000-06:00

"Some Velvet Morning," Yen #46//Ali Carr by Rupert Tapper//style by Paul Bui//source: fashiongonerogue

How were your weekends?

I have a question to ask all of you: what could I do to improve this blog? I feel as if I'm missing something crucial and I can't put my finger on it. If there's something you want to see more of, please let me know.

Evil Twin

2010-11-28T12:27:00.000-06:00

Twin #2//Christina Kruse by Paul Netherell//source: ilikeyoursundaypersonalitybetter

Consistent posting will now commence for a few days (if I'm lucky it will be a few weeks).

Assembly

2010-11-26T21:35:00.002-06:00

Vogue Paris, November 2010//Sasha Pivovarova by Mikael Jansson//styling by Anastasia Barberi//source: fashiongonerogue

Salvador Dali and Coco Chanel//source: livejournal

Emma Watson//source: tumblr

Braided hair//source:

Hercules//Behati Prinsloo by Mariano Vivanco//styling by Nicola Formichetti//souce: fashiongonerogue

Marilyn Monroe//source: tumblr

Photo by Ed van der Elsken, c. 1970//source: livejournal

I've been in a very light mood these days. Despite chronic exhaustion, my mind is firmly fixed upon spring. If only autumn and spring were the only seasons I'd be a very happy person! Something about flowing fabrics and beautiful weather and light layers seem right to me.

Still working on assembling decent outfits. I've been slacking lately. Too tired to get dressed up in something new and exiting. I've been sticking to the "tried and true" variety because it doesn't take much effort. Opps.

Willkommen

2010-11-24T21:21:00.003-06:00

Photos by Edward Steichen//source: livejournal

Musicals have been infiltrating my life lately for no apparent reason. I assume it's simply because I'm trying to procrastinate. A lot.

I have a million things to post on here so I may just start posting a few times a day to get through all of it before everything gets lost in the depths of my numerous organized folders in my laptop.

In other news, I've made a blog specifically for my creative writing. Here's the link: Her Phantasmagoria

Artist

2010-11-19T18:49:00.004-06:00

Frida Kahlo//source: livejournal (here)

I always adore looking at photos of Frida Kahlo. There's something magnetic in these captured images.

I will be so glad when I can relax for a month between semesters. I'm exhausted and I hardly have time to do what I want these days.

She Rode To The Devil

2010-11-16T08:59:00.001-06:00

Souce: tumblr

323 South Dowling by Moses//source: Hobogestapo

David Bowie//source: tumblr

Bon F/W 2010//source: Studded Hearts

Cushnie et Ochs Spring 2011 campaign//Naty Chabanenko by Hugh Lippe//styling by Nicole Vitagliano//source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Dace Burkevica by Annelise Phillips//source: Fashion Gone Rogue

The snow keeps piling up, it seems. And I'm delaying getting ready for classes. Pricesly because I don't want to trudge through blackened sludge snow to wait for a city bus. I must keep telling myself the nerdiest thing of all: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part I) comes out in less than three days.

Snowfall

2010-11-13T13:27:00.002-06:00

This is what I woke up to this morning. For once the weatherman wasn’t lying. Inches and inches of snow. Winter, you have arrived in Minnesota.

Fashion returning soon.

I'm thinking of making another blog, this featuring my photography and writing. I'm wondering if there would be any interest from my readers here? I'll probably make it anyway but I figured I'd test the waters!

BANG! BANG!

2010-11-11T20:52:00.002-06:00

Source: Private

I've been slacking on fashion lately. Lounging in leggings and torn up t-shirts studying. That's my life lately. This new haircut will, hopefully, be a catalyst for getting back into the grove of things. I already want to get button up shirts, high waisted shorts and make a few choice skirts.

The Start of a Beautiful Friendship.

2010-11-10T17:56:00.004-06:00

Grazia Italy, September 2010//Dita von Teese by Richard Bernardin//style by Alexandra Bernard//source: fashion gone rogue.

Casablanca, 1942//source: tumblr

I've had a hairstyle change in the last week. I now have bangs and I am loving them. Plus, I've got pre-sale Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows tickets. Yes, I'm nerding out next Thursday (midnight showing and all). Couple that with the last few weeks of semester and I'm a happy girl!

The Sun Rising

2010-11-06T22:56:00.003-05:00

Blank Magazine #55//model: Zen Sevastyanova//photographer: Paul de Luna//stylist: Sarah Parlow//source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Busy old fool, unruly Sun,

Why dost thou thus,

Through window, and through curtains call on us?

Must to thy motions lovers' seasons run?

Saucy Pedantic wretch, go chide

Late schoolboys, and our prentices,

Go tell court-huntsmen that the King will ride,

Call country ants to harvest offices;

Love, all alike, no season knows, nor clime,

Nor hours, days, months, which are the rags of time.

They beams, so reverend, and strong

Why shouldst thou think?

I could eclipse and cloud them with a wink,

But that I would not lose her sight so long:

If her eyes have not blinded thin,

Look, and tomorrow late, tell me,

Whether both the Indias of spice and mine

Be where thou lefst them, or lie here with me.

Ask for those kings whom thou saw'st yesterday,

And thou shalt hear, All her in one bed lay.

She's all state, and all princes, I

Nothing else is

Princes do but play us; compared to this,

All honor's mimic, all wealth alchemy.

Thou sun art half as happy as we,

In that the world's contracted thus:

Thine age asks ease, and since they duties be

To warm the world, that's done in warming us.

Shine here to us, and thou art everywhere;

This bed thy center is, these walls, they sphere.

-"The Sun Rising," John Donne, 1633. (The Broadview Anthology of British Literature)

This poem has quickly risen to one of my absolute favorites. Not only in the flowing beauty of language but in the content matter and the abundant love. I do believe this British Literature class is giving my brain a workout in a rather pleasurable way.

October

2010-11-04T16:05:00.003-05:00

Source: Private//make-up: Anthony Ceballos

The first three are just random shots from a random day. Taken by my boyfriend. The dress is Helmut Lang (which I got off of eBay when I was like 10 pounds lighter than I am in these photos). I must ask you to excuse the weird bunching around my midsection in these photos. The leggings I'm wearing have an extremely thick waist band and it showed through, much to my dismay. They also never stay put in my shoes. They always end up bunching around the legs as well. It's a shame because I quite love how comfortable they are. And I'm sure the weight gain hasn't helped in any way. Those were just me showing off. For that I apologize. This is my way of extending time between this and more meaningful fashion posts (which I hope I will have time for in a month or so).

The last three are from Halloween. My friend, Anthony did my make-up. Pretty, huh? I'm terrible with make-up so this was entirely his doing. He's the devil-horned one. I'd give you a link to his blog if he had one. Or his Youtube if he had one...I've been trying to convince him for ages to get one. He's quite devoted to make-up and the sorts so I figured he would get quite a few followers who would appreciate his quirky humor and talent. Alas, he doesn't have any sort of blog.

I Feel Like Our World Is Infected

2010-11-03T20:50:00.003-05:00

Vogue Brazil, November 2010//Princess Paola de Orleans//photographer: Renam Christofoletti//stylist: Osvaldo Costo//source: fashion gone rogue

The photography from this spread is stunning. I think I have a new photographer to watch! I am excited. Really, these photos make me giddy. There just so fantastic!

In other news, I usually despise Christine Aguilera (that's right, right?)because I dislike most pop music and I think she's a bit trashy. But this I cannot deny, the woman has some killer pipes. Her new song, "You Lost Me" is such a great show of her vocal strength (besides being quite melancholy).

That makes, maybe, two songs of hers that I really enjoy. I'm exluding Genie in a Bottle because I loved it when I was in...fifth or sixth grade? Oh how the past comes back to haunt us all, right?

Before You Slip Into Unconsciousness

2010-10-29T18:03:00.000-05:00

It feels like fire and clouds and raindrops on a parched sea and melting ice cream on a city of ants.

Like a million droplets of oxygen becoming solid and covering my entire being, starting with my hair.

Like a purple balloon with too much hellium in a room with high ceilings. And a red balloon with too much helium outside. And a green ballon with nothing but oxygen that just lies there on the ground, jumping every now and then with the breeze but never leaving the ground.

It feels indescribable and like every word in the fucking dictionary.

Writing and photographs: Private

Liu Wen

2010-10-27T12:14:00.002-05:00

"Dynasty," Muse Magazine Fall 2010//model: Liu Wen//photographer: Sebastian Kim//style: Katie Mossman//source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Despite the uncertainty about rope bondage across her breasts, I love this. Red has never looked as good. It seems to be my thing this season despite the fact that I own maybe three red articles of clothing. I don't know why. Plus Liu Wen is fast becoming one of my new favorite editorial models.

Saintly

2010-10-26T18:27:00.002-05:00

All Saints Lookbook/source: Studded Hearts

These are perfect autumn looks, aren't they? I'll even say they're perfect transitional season wear. I'd wear these well into winter and well into spring.

I want to thank all of you for reading my blog. I tend not to care about the number of followers or comments; I genuinely enjoy blogging. Still, it means a lot to know that people have taken an interest in my blog. Especially as I want to use it as a writing outlet.

I'm getting a bit tired of constantly explaining why I don't post as regularly as I would like. I'm a college student. I'm swamped with papers to write and books to read and lectures to attend. It shouldn't really be surprising, least of all to me, that I can't update as regularly. So what I'm about to say is not meant as an excuse. I just want to share it.

This past week I had to write two different papers. One involved character worth and illegitimacy in King Lear (I am super proud of the completely out there topic as I had been planning on writing about power as a corrupting force). The second involved medical technologies, health insurance companies in the United States and the United States people. I'm a bit exhausted. But on I must go! I don't mind the writing at all. In fact, I like it. It's really worrying about how a professor will judge my writing that puts me on edge.

October 16th, 2010

2010-10-23T12:08:00.004-05:00

http://lookbook.nu/look/1216083-At-Water-s-Edge

Can you tell I'm running out of steam for titles? Oh well, maybe I'll get over that soon.

My boyfriend and I went to Stillwater, which is this little city nestled next to the St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin. We were on the Minnesota side. In some of these photos you can see Wisconsin. Anyway, we went up to Stillwater to have a last bit of Nelson's Ice Cream before winter comes in. Nelson's has the best ice cream and the serving sizes are probably catering to American proportion extremes. I had the child's size this time because I learned my lesson with the double scoop. The child's cup was smallish, maybe 12 ounces, but they piled up at least three scoops on top. Needless to say I saved some for later!

Stillwater is pretty much a tourist destination now so we just wandered along the river and looked in some shops. The weather was perfect, autumn at its best, so I finally got to wear this shearling drape jacket I bought on Nasty Gal. The warmest and most comfortable jacket I've ever put on. I just wish that it didn't appear to be made of suede material because I'll have to put it away when snow starts falling.

Also, I've just remembered I have a Lookbook (yeah, I know, I'm a bit slow). Anyway, I'm just using it for fun at the moment and might switch over to Chictopia eventually (which I hear is less...ummm.competitve). The link (if it's linking right) is just so you can check it out if you want. I have a few outfits I posted last year as well.

Modern Glamor

2010-10-21T09:24:00.000-05:00

Source: The Electric

Abbey Lee Kershaw backstage at Fendi, S/S 2010, backstage at Valentino S/S 2011/source: Tobacco and Leather

Abbey Lee/sources: Stockholm Streetstyle, Knight Cat

Amanda Norgaard/sources: anywho, Hanneli

Ruby Aldridge/sources: Stockholm Streetstyle, Tobacco and Leather

Sasha Pivovarova at Vogue ball, streetstyle/sources: Tobacco and Leather, Stockholm Streetstyle

Some stylish ladies that I can't help but admire. I'm not often a fan of Abbey Lee's personal style but every so often she grabs me with her amazing clothing collection. Plus her new hair is edgy and lovely. Amanda Norgaard (I can never get the "accent" on the O to show up) has captured my heart lately and Sasha Pivovarova...well...come on people! She's one of my favorite models and her editorial work is some of the best I've ever seen.

Sharing my streetsyle inspirations. More of this to come as I've collected quite a few of these over the past few months.

Fine Attire

2010-10-20T18:41:00.002-05:00

AnOther Magazine, Fall/Winter 2010/model: Jacquelyn Jablonski/photographer: Glen Luchford/stylist: Tabitha Simmons/source: Tobacco and Leather.

First, I want to thank all of you who commented on my writing in the last post. Writing is my entire life. Without it I am pretty sure I would die. I've often wondered what I would do if I suddenly lost the ability to see or use my hands and I don't care to think about it because, well, is life worth anything if you don't have passion?

Second, I'm overloaded with writing papers at the moment. Three in a week. Less than a week actually. At least two of them should be interesting (King Lear and an analysis of Sicko in comparison to a text).

Third, I am madly in love with ever piece of clothing in these shots. Such perfection. I'm sure the black and white photos help a ton too (I am a devoted fan).

Dream

2010-10-16T19:26:00.000-05:00

Japanese Nouveau Glam Goth//model: Paula (Muse NYC)//photographer: Vikram Pathak (here)//source: Dirty Flaws

The crude creation of our pleasure was limited only by our sense of shame. A cracked veneer on the surface of our societal realities exposed the truth of our world, a world we knew nothing about. Light shimmered through the dusty, spider webbed pathways of shattered constructions creating spectacular patterns upon our faces and bodies. And, for the first time, we felt undeniably free of everything we had once imagined real. There were no boundaries imposed by larger groups and angry people. There were no sneers or bewildered glares. In the brightness of our rebellion we had no shame in our entire beings for only then, alone with ourselves, were we able to breathe free.

Daiane

2010-10-15T18:04:00.003-05:00

Zoo Magazine, Fall 2010/model: Daiane Conterato/photographer: Laetitia Negre/source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Sorry I've been MIA for so long. I've been absolutely swamped with school work. I had to read all of King Lear in about two days (including an analyzing response post). I tried to get it done on the bus ride to and from Duluth but it was far too crowded and loud to concentrate. Now I have about 3 papers due in the next week and a half and I have yet to start any of them. Needless to say I'm just about ripping my hair out.

This better pay off. Straight A's here I come?

Out

2010-10-08T07:03:00.002-05:00

I'm going to Duluth for the weekend to visit a friend. I promise to visit all of your blogs when I return on Monday!

Have a good weekend.

Fashion Week/s Round-up

2010-10-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

Warning. This post is (again) image heavy. I promise to slow down with all of these photos in one post very (VERY) soon.

Roberto Caballi, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tobacco and leather

I must admit disappointment. I let myself get slightly distracted by the fashion weeks this fall and I got…nothing. Don’t get me wrong there were some really fantastic pieces such as the Roberto Cavalli trousers (which I’m thinking I would see my right leg for…or maybe not…might need that for those babies). And I loved almost everything from Cushnie et Ochs as my previous posts can attest (here).

Givenchy Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs, studded hearts

It seemed that I could only name one or two looks from an entire collection that I liked. There was a lack of cohesiveness or perhaps I was just plain bored. From Rick Owens to Barbara Bui to Gareth Pugh (which I’ll get to in a bit), I kind of went “neat…oh geez.” And don’t even get me started on Balmain. Or actually do.

The first time I was a bit impressed and in love, I admit. But then it happened again and I was very unimpressed by it (not to mention when it happened yet again). This time the style veered a bit away, more toward a lighter side but it just didn’t cut it for me.

Balmain, Spring/Summer 2011/source: knight cat

The corset tops reminded me of something I could pick in a Frederick’s of Hollywood any day of the week and alter myself. The trousers were all extremely unflattering (perhaps the shortened length coupled with rolled cuffs and metallic shimmer was a bad idea, huh? And the jeans?). The t-shirts were very DIY (really, you can’t rip up a tee and put safety pins on the holes?) and the blazers were still the same. The studding on the jackets felt a bit needlessly showy. I can admire a DIY aesthetic but this is just needlessly wasteful. Spending that much money on something you could do yourself feels ridiculous. At least to me. In fact, spending that much money on any of this stuff (whether or not you're DIY-capable) is too much.

Balmain, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

I know I'm not the only one who viewed it once and went, "Where have I seen this before? Not Balmain, surely." Nope. It looks oddly similar to Isabel Marant's Fall/Winter collection that was presented in the spring.

sources: tfs

This is not to mention the fact that it looks as if the clothes were burned, bloodied and thrown into a dumpster for a good few months. I can understand the punk/rock chic aesthetic but this is doesn't even begin to really explore that style for me. Previous collections maybe have. I will give Decarnin that for sure. This, however,is just ridculous. Pure and simple. I don't care how wonderful the quality of the clothing is. I'm not paying money for destroyed clothing.

Balmain, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

Across the board I felt like a lot of collections had a similar look. Whether it was minimalism (which seemed a bit overdone this year or maybe it’s just the collections I chose to peek at) or cropped slacks (how many collections featured this) or leather jackets, I kind of started to see everything as too similar. What’s more, a lot of the stuff I viewed didn’t particularly seem “Spring” or “Summer” but the reverse.

This isn’t to say that I disliked everything. I loved the Ann Demeulemeester collection. The fencing vibe battled quite nicely with a sort of strait-jacket, medical mentality.

Ann Demeulemeester, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

And the flowing blacks and sheers in Yohji Yamamoto’s collection certainly made me smile. The sheers certainly were involved in my favorite looks from Domir Doma and Nicolas Andreas Taralis.

Yohji Yamamoto, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs, dirty flaws

Damir Doma, Spring/Summer 2011/source: dirty flaws

Nicolas Andreas Taralis, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

Despite how I felt about the repetitive nature of Pugh’s latest work, I did love the futuristic, almost sterile feel of the collection. I could quite literally see this as a “future” dress habit.

Gareth Pugh, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

I must mention Haider Ackermann and Jean Paul Gaultier. While neither collection really blew my mind I did find some things to like. Especially with the assorted compelling mix of looks in JPG’s collection.

Haider Ackermann, Spring/Summer 2011/source:tfs

I first heard people referring to it as the Joan Jett inspired collection but I completely get Ziggy Stardust off of it. Right? As a Bowie fan, I was much in love with this look. Can’t you just see him (in his younger days) wearing that?

Jean Paul Gaultier, Spring/Summer 2011/source: style.it

Hussein Chalayan made me shiver a bit out of excited fear. Watching the video I got goose bumps.

Hussein Chalayan, Spring/Summer 2011/source: tfs

Last, and obviously not least, Comme des Garçons. Rei Kawakubo offered the very best, in my opinion. By far, this was my favorite collection (seconded by Ann Demeulemeester). From the netted caps to the belted dresses to the overwhelming jackets that combined multiple into one, I was smitten. The sheer absurdity of dangling jacket arms hanging from backs and legs made a mess of undecided fun.

Comme des Garçons, Spring/Summer 2011/source: Vogue.com(ph: Marcio Madiera), tfs

And, of course, everyone seems to be interested in the Siamese dresses. The lesson here? Take everything you want to wear even if you can’t decide (because if you’re at all like me you have a million different ideas of what to wear daily)and throw it all on anyway. Screw the “fashion rules” and go out however you feel like.

Comme des Garçons, Spring/Summer 2011/source: Vogue.com(ph: Marcio Madiera)

Though something tells me that if I tried to wear this on public transportation, Midwesterners would heckle me until I got off (Minnesota nice my ass).

Comme des Garçons, Spring/Summer 2011/source: Vogue.com(ph: Marcio Madiera)

Serene

2010-10-03T19:52:00.003-05:00

Dossier Journal, Fall/Winter 2010/model: Freja Beha Erichsen/photographer: Cass Bird/source: Studded Hearts

I love this editorial. It's soft and the photos actually show a decent amount of detail outside of Freja's body. This could be explained by the setting of the photos but I find myself amazed. Simply because it seems as if every time I see her in an editorial it's in a Terry Richardson style photo. You know the kind. Blown out, harsh lighting, and his typical and noticeably "hipster chic" form lurking somewhere nearby (if you can tell I'm not much of a fan of his...urm...style of photography). Even if it isn't a Richardson shoot, other photographers went with the same type of photo. If not it was a dark and moody vibe.

I love how these just feel more serene and...well...un-Freja as many of us have come to see her.

Costumed

2010-10-01T20:19:00.002-05:00

Source: Private

This is what I wore to Full Fashion Panic last week. It is extremely costume-y as I'm wearing mostly pieces of from the Renaissance Festival but I wanted to have fun at the show and I knew most people would like wise be dressed up. I am not a huge fan of velvet so this was interesting for me. To cancel out the entire velvet dress I put the lace underskirt on top and I was mostly satisfied. Also, my Litas finally make an appearance (I've worn them at least 10 tens since I got them in the mail I just haven't taken pictures).

In other news, I'm lamenting the various fashion weeks. I'm left feeling underwhelmed and unhappy. For every look I like there are at least 3 looks in the same collection I don't like. I'm trying to give some of my regular favorites another chance by finding different photos (and it worked for some-namely Yohji Yamamoto). Still, I'm left with a pretty sad thought as Paris Fashion Week progresses. I miss Alexander McQueen. His work was pretty much my favorite part of fashion week and now...I shall give miss Burton a chance (though resort didn't knock my socks off despite holding some McQueen aesthetic). It's all I can do really.

I have some agenda-setting plans too:

-Review FWs

-New Freja Beha Erichsen editorial (that's not in that annoyingly blown out Terry Richardson style)

-Constance Jablonski in Numero #117 (maybe)

Stay tuned!

Spotlight

2010-09-29T19:39:00.003-05:00

Source: Violetta E. (blog) (lookbook)
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I have to plug her blog. I just have to. Not only is she stylish beyond belief (and beautiful) but she's an artist.

I was going to make this a fairly short post but I was going through her blog and I could stop with the images. Very inspirational. She's just so fantastic. One of my new favorite blogs. It's like fashion gold.

Check her out. Follow her! Do it!
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Thank you, Violleta E., for letting me use these photos. :)

Full Fashion Panic

2010-09-26T17:39:00.007-05:00

Warning: This post is image heavy.

I was able to attend a fashion show (Full Fashion Panic) affiliated with Minneapolis Fashion Week. It was part of a 3 day academic convention that studied anime/manga and the art of culture. Schoolgirls and Mobilesuits (SGMS) has been running for 10 years with the fashion show slowly being a very large draw. 6 designers took part and these are the photos I took to accompany the article I'm writing for my college paper.
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1. Seraphim Feathers (here)

2. Scoundrelle's Keep (here)

3. KMK Designs (here)

4. Tara Reich (here)

5. Megan Muade (here)

6. Blasphemina's Closet (here), hats by Megan Bishop (here), jewelry by Bionic Unicorn (here)

It's not entirely my style but I do admire quite a few pieces and I have to admire the fact that a lot of these are handmade garments that are customized. I do quite love Megan Maude's collection and Samantha Rei's collection for Blasphemina's Closet is gorgeous.

I have plans for this next week's posts (which will be every couple of days)! Lots of gorgeous fashion.

The Fear

2010-09-22T18:38:00.002-05:00

uliana tikhova by jonathan waiter/Source: Dirty Flaws

We lived our lives in black and white. The wrong, the right. The bright, the dark and all the shit made of things concrete and un-messy.

Life is simple and untangled when you see the world in monochrome. The time can pass by and the world can keep spinning and the fears and hopes and pent up realities can be shut up like some sort of bad secret you're afraid to let out into the light. Like skeletons in your closet, you can kill off the inconvenient inconsistencies in life and make everything black and white.

We were slaves to this ease. This uncommitted ignorance because, well, I'm sure you've been told but ignorance is bliss. We were innocent and proud of our un-jaded status. We were dominant in our lives and nothing else mattered because why should it?

The subtle grays don't matter.

Until one day they do.

A Walking Study

2010-09-20T13:03:00.005-05:00

1. Unknown spread (if you know please let me know!)/Source: Stardust and Sequins

2. Interview Magazine September 2010/photo by Paolo Roversi/Source: Dirty Flaws

3-4. "Sasha," Numero # 116/model: Sasha Pivovarova/photo by Greg Kadel/style by Brian Molloy/Source: tfs

5. Pamela Love Spring/Summer 2011/Source: ...Look Closer

6. Haider Ackermann, Fall/Winter 2006-07/Source: History of Our World

7. Dree Hemingway in Vogue Italia September 2010/Source: Studded Hearts

8. Backstage at Frankie Morello Winter 2010/Source: Giacomo Frizzarin

9. Ashley Smith in Russh #36/Source: Studded Hearts

10. Amanda Norgaard/Source: Stockholm Streetstyle

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Somethings I can't seem to get over at the moment. Whether it is constructed pieces riddle with attractive opposition or a satin and velvet mix placed upon a model. Feathers and fur and shearling, aviator jackets mixed with cone, pyramid ring (a la Pamela Love) lingerie make for a perfect viewing session. Throw in a backstage photo and an airy shot of the lovely Dree Hemingway and this neatly sums up my image hunt this weekend. It's been a weekend of aesthetic intervention. I've been slacking off on my studies. Back to the books, I guess. But expect more posts this week.

Litas

2010-09-17T23:39:00.002-05:00

Source: Private

Let me just say these shoes fit like a dream.

I'm sorry for being such a crap blogger lately. I've been so overwhelmed. It's not just class work. It's a combination of things, I guess.

I feel partly guilty for posting this today. My grandmother's birthday is today. She would have been 77 years old but she died of breast cancer that metastasized to her brain 10 years ago. That sounds needlessly blunt and not nearly as eloquent as I try to be but I don't know how else to say it. It seems a bit weird to post this on a day so personal to me but I had the time so I've posted my new shoes. I'm sorry for the lack of interesting anything but I can't really deal with it right now.

2010-09-12T15:40:00.002-05:00

Cushnie et Ochs Spring/Summer 2011/Source: Tobacco & Leather

With all of my coursework and being sick, I didn't even realize NYFW had started. Which is actually fine by me. I tend to get really caught up in analyzing each single collection for things I like and things I dislike. I get so caught up I fall behind in everything else. So, overall, it's a good thing I don't have time to pay attention because it is probably the most distracting thing in the world.

Still, I've had time to read blogs and while doing so I came across this collection. I am in love, I think. The relatively neutral colors really pulled me in (my wardrobe is pretty much colorless). While I'm not a huge fan of detailing on shirts, blouses, and the like, I can easily overlook it for the slouchy structure of some of the loose shirts. The pants are sublime whether in "leather?" or not. And I'm quite fascinated with that leather and sheer panel skirts.

So this was my foray into fashion week. I am going to try my hardest to get back to reading Beowulf. Which is really hard to do knowing I can peruse runway images or fantasize about my JC Litas which are supposed to show up on my doorstep tomorrow!

Hey Babe, Let's Go Out Tonight

2010-09-09T09:32:00.002-05:00

Source: Private

So I haven't had time to find new editorials. Still busy. Plus I'm also sick.

A few things here. One, please forgive some of the clutter. I enlisted my mother's help in taking photos. She was in the basement so I just had her take them down there. Two, and this might sound ridiculously superficial and awful, please forgive the fat. I've gained a lot of weight recently and it shows in the worst ways (especially since I have such a small frame and my face is already round to begin with).

Hopefully I can put up a couple of editorials this weekend or something!

Ren Fest

2010-09-05T18:58:00.002-05:00

I just had to share the things I picked up at the Renaissance Festival this weekend. I'm "walking on air" happy with my new things. I'm testing out ways to wear these things on a semi-normal basis. It's loads of fun. I didn't manage to take a photo of a white corset with skull patterns on it but that's included in the haul. I do want to get actual chains for the necklaces because the strands they're on now feel really cheap and breakable but otherwise I am feeling great (if not more than a little broke).

I kind of want to wax poetic about my studies but I'm afraid I would bore you all (mass communications, a technology based sociology course, cultural anthropology, and brit lit). I might bore you a little later.

For now I'll say I'm going to a Savers labor day sale with my best friend tomorrow (he's such a fashion-addict). I'm hoping I can take some photos of him as he has such a fabulous style. Until later, thank you all for being so loyal to my little blog. It means a lot to me!

Off to comment your blogs!

Dark Angel

2010-09-03T16:21:00.002-05:00

"Dark Angel," Vogue UK, September 2010/model: Jamie Bochert/photographer: Hedi Slimane/Source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Does Jamie Bochert remind anyone else of Patti Smith every now and then?

I'm so sorry I haven't updated! I got so caught up in work these past two weeks. I've read so much I feel like my eyes are going to be seeing print even when I'm not putting my nose in a book. Cultural anthropology texts and long chapters on mass communication convergence. Throw in some Brave New World (Huxley) and 1984 (Orwell) and I'm just about at the brink of it. Plus my Brit Lit class online (which so far hasn't been too terrible).

To top it off, I've been trying to juggle a somewhat social life on top of my sudden overload.

I keep meaning to take outfit photos but I'm always on the go it seems. The good news? I think I've been forced to learn time management. So more posts! The better news? The weather here as cooled off a lot (it's not even 60 degrees) and I am so very pleased to be able to wear blazers and sweaters. The best news? I should be getting my JC Litas VERY soon. I've been waiting way too long.

Dirty Rockstar

2010-08-26T16:58:00.003-05:00

Oyster Magazine, August 2010/Model: Erin O'Conner/Photographer: Brooke Nipar/Stylist: Kate Ruth/Source: Fashion Gone Rogue

First, thank you all for your responses on my last post. I put quite a bit of heart into it and I'm glad you all enjoyed it!

Second of all, classes have started and I am suddenly overloaded by work already. I've done so much reading in the last two days I can't believe it. Also, in my journalism class, I'm doing an individual presentation on Tuesday about (*cue dramatic music*) fashion blogging.

I'm exploring the issue of technological convergence and audiences. Meaning, how this change to everything digital has given us the power to create the content about fashion as opposed to the traditional fashion journalists. I'm basically focusing on that because the issue is far too broad and I only have a rough 5 minutes.

Also, I got my top from Adore Vintage and am planning on wearing it soon. I shall take photos of my styling choices and share them!

I'm off to comment on your lovely blogs.

Water & Oil

2010-08-23T20:32:00.002-05:00

I've been thinking about this editorial for a couple of weeks now, just trying to gather my thoughts about it. It would seem the "fashion world" is split on the idea of this stunning spread documenting the current Gulf of Mexico situation. The arguments are either that it is so stunningly realistic that it makes people uncomfortable (political correctness ruling the way people view it and resulting in unfair judgements) and there are those that say the spread glorifies the BP disaster by trying to sell high fashion clothing.

While I do understand completely that fashion is an industry that has the main purpose of selling clothing I refuse to believe that is all it is. Perhaps I am just one of those people that sees the dreams embedded in fashion, the artistic expression thrown directly upon the human body. Nothing is more glorious to me than that. Like the music industry, in comparison, the goal is to sell your merchandise because as we know money makes the world go round. But really, is that all it is?

If so why are so many people invested in it? Why do so many people share daydreamy sentiments about haute cotoure collections? Is this just a by-product of the modern world's focus on materialistic greed? Is it really just about using your money to buy something to define you?

I can't, in all honesty, believe this because that is just not the case for me. It may sound overly materialistic to say that clothing is one of my greatest tools for expressing myself but it's true. I get a high like none other when I carefully combine pieces to create the look I feel like portraying on any given day. And I can feel this way without all of the ritz of high end designer names because, let's be honest here, I'm a college student and my mother has had a terminal illness my entire life. I simply don't have the luxury of buying clothing like that. So, for me, the idea that fashion is purely a buy/sell world doesn't hit home.

Fashion is not just profit margins and price tags, it's a form of expression. It's an art and perhaps everyone complaining should recall if they ever said something similar about Alexander McQueen's work (which at the time of his death seemed to be the general consensus, that his work was art).

This spread touches on something hauntingly familiar for me. It evokes emotion and thought. It is, in my opinion, beautifully executed and hauntingly provacative. It hardly seems as if they are promoting the clothing here. I don't see McMenamy strutting around in the clothing. I don't see anything light and enticing about it. I don't see the clothes and say, "I want to buy these." Perhaps that's why some people have a problem with this. Water and Oil is, after all, in Vogue Italia, a well known fashion publication. Again, I think there is more to fashion and fashion photography than selling clothing though.

Why can't a noted fashion photographer strive to take photos that make a statement more than "buy the clothing so I'll keep getting hired?" A fashion photographer is still a photographer and a photographer is an artist. Artists like to make commentary on social situations. The BP oil spill is a very large situation if I'm not mistaken.

You don't feel the urge to buy those clothes? Good. I don't think that's the point of this spread.

Yes, perhaps there were better ways of bringing light to the situation. Maybe the use of feathers and such might have been in poor taste. The money spent on the shoot might have been enough to feed many of the families devastated but you could say the same for every politicians' salary or the amount of money BP ceos make.

When it comes down to it, someone will always detest something presented to the public. In this world, there is no such thing as unanimous. For me, at least, I like this spread. At least in the sense that it rises above the the considerably shallow, exterior surface of the fashion world that most people seem to dislike (but hey, they dislike this too so what does it matter).

"Water & Oil," Vogue Italia, August 2010/Model: Kristen McMenamy/Photographer: Steven Meisel/Source: Fashion Gone Rogue

[In a side note, I am starting class tomorrow! I'm hoping this means I am able to do more outfit posts as I've recently picked up so many lovely clothes. Also, thank you all for visiting my blog. And thank you so much, if you read this entire thing. I tried to put a lot of thought in it but I must confess I only proofread it once. So I apologize if there are an odd bits.]

Sunday Morning Sweater Girl

2010-08-20T20:11:00.005-05:00

"Sweater Girl," Vogue US, September 2010/model: Lara Stone/photographer: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott/Source: Fashion Gone Rogue

Oh lovely sweaters. A couple of things I am sure you've all noticed by now:

-I am in love with the recent vintage inspired everything. Very lovely

-I am desperately wanting fall to come.

I am so sick of tank tops and shorts. It's not really "me." Alas, it's too hot to wear anything else (though it did cool down for a few days and I was able to wear button-up long sleeve shirts (yay).

Well that was the "Sweater Girl" part. Now for "Sunday Morning" (because who can resist some Velvet Underground?).

Also, I recently bought this off of Adore Vintage. I've been eyeing for a few weeks and couldn't resist. Can't wait to get it.

35 mm

2010-08-19T15:02:00.002-05:00

Source: Private (Tastes Eclectic Fashion)
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What do you when you spend 440 dollars on school textbooks and and a semester long bus pass? Go and develop 4 rolls of film, of course! Minus the one black and white that "couldn't be developed" because apparently only specialty photo stores care about developing black and white film for anyone (which I would rather just do myself but I don't have the resources anymore).
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That being said, I am quite pleased with how my color photos turned out. For the most part anyway. Back to regular posting very soon!

Movie Day

2010-08-16T14:59:00.002-05:00

Atonement, 2007/Keira Knightley/Source: Alice in Wardrobe Wonderland

The Edge of Love, 2008/Keira Knightley and Sienna Miller/Source: Alice in Wardrobe Wonderland

Pulp Fiction, 1994/ Uma Thurman/Source: unknown

The Rocky Horror Picture Show, 1975/ Screen cap, Tim Curry/Sources: gifake (flickr), unknown

Girl Interrupted, 1999/Angelina Jolie/Source: gifake (flickr)

Marie Antoinette, 2006/Source: Alice In Wardrobe Wonderland

Funny Face, 1957/Audrey Hepburn/Source: gifake (flickr)

The Doors, 1991/Source: Tastes Eclectic Fahion

I've been watching a lot of movies in my spare time lately. It's probably because I spent my summer buying movies I've never seen before. I still have about 6 left to watch (after staying up until three the past two nights watching Closer, Revolutionary Road, and La Vie En Rose).

I'm obviously in a very movie-oriented mind. Which I don't mind because I don't really expect to have loads of free time once classes start.

ALSO, I don't know if any Harry Potter fans happen to read my blog but I'm practically dying waiting for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to be released in November. I'm what some people in my life call "fanatical" about the series. I'm currently rereading the entire series (for the millionth time?) and trying to appease my excitement for the first part of the Deathly Hallows by watching the trailer over and over and over again. This only makes me start crying and screaming which gets me weird looks from whoever is closest (usually my boyfriend). Okay, I've been wanting write about Harry Potter on here forever and now that I have I'll stop for a bit before I drive everyone nuts.

Masha Ma

2010-08-13T12:48:00.003-05:00

Masha Ma Resort 2010 Lookbook

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Have you noticed how many vintage-inspired looks have been coming out? They're definitely influencing me more and more.

All of that aside, I bought a lovely H & M blazer the other day and am waiting for the right (read not 90 and humid) day to wear it. I'll be sure to take photos of it when I actually do get to show it off.

Acne Again

2010-08-10T12:06:00.002-05:00

source: Gravure Magazine

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I've been unexpectedly busy lately. I don't really have a clue why. End of summer drama? I'm hoping I'll be able to comment you all back later tonight after I get back from shopping with a friend.

Also, thanks so much for all of the continual comments. :)

City Jungle

2010-08-07T09:51:00.002-05:00

Source: private

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I was at my uncle's house yesterday. He's very into gardening, alternative energy sources and recycling common materials for other uses. A couple of years ago he converted his yard into a garden. It's filled with herbs, grapes, raspberries, plums and the like. It's absolutely lovely.

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This past summer he's practically moved out of the city to live on a farm in Wisconsin. His yard has grown a bit in his absence. By a bit I mean a ton. His fenced in back yard looks like a jungle. Yesterday I went exploring. Weaving under grape vines, a bird flew right in front of me. I could hear them making noises the entire time I was back there. It was just beautiful. A lovely little piece of honest to goodness nature in the center of Minneapolis.

I want to thank all of you for your comments. Each one means a lot and I try to return the favor. That being said, I might not be on for the rest of the weekend so... have a fantastic weekend!

Lady Bygone

2010-08-06T10:25:00.002-05:00

Source: Antichristopher

Patti Smith/Source: gifake, flickr

The Persistence of Memory, Salvador Dali/source: tfs

Valeria Lazareva, Magnificent #6/source: Tobacco and Leather

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Last night I raided my family's overstuffed garage. One realizes just how much stuff we have when they see our house, neat and orderly and full of knick-knacks and such. Then they venture to the determinedly delapidated garaged and find tons of boxes, looms, stack of plastic bins with fabric, threads and clothing. We don't have nearly enough space for all of our memories.

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My hunt was specific enough. I wanted to find my Harry Potter books. It seemed simple enough anyway, once I got over the multitude of spider webs. My boyfriend and I spent almost two hours going through stuff. We checked every box and we didn't end up finding the books until right before we gave up. The funny thing, they were in a box at the very front of the garage.

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While in there I came across my inheritance. When my grandmother passed away almost 10 years ago the family held onto her record collection. There are tons of them. Well, my uncle was the keeper. He decided, upon my request, that I should have them. So now I have tons of old records. While in the garage I looked through some of them. I found a few Marlene Dietrich records, some Marilyn Monroe, a ton of classical compositions, a few Scottish bagpipes and some Billie Holiday. I cannot wait to bring them into the house for more proper inspection.

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The bad news? I am out a record player, having never fixed my old one. So now I have to save for a new one plus a decent stereo system. The things I do for music.

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How on Earth does this relate to the photos? I'm not sure. Except that I feel a bit of nostalgia. Or rather, a feeling of nostalgia for a time that I never got to experience (being born in the 90's sometimes feels like a huge mistake to me). Now that I feel properly melancholy about the things, I'll read some blogs, write a few poems and use up the last of my 35 mm film so I can get it developed.

jumbles

2010-08-04T19:27:00.000-05:00

Source: private

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I've been busy cutting up glossy magazines and getting my hands full of glue stick. Hmmm. I'm trying to do an emergency summer saver before classes start on the 23rd. My summer hasn't been much of a waste. I love sleeping in and relaxing but now I'm faced with buying books out of pocket again (stupid financial aid office at school not coming through on time, AGAIN) and I suddenly feel like too much of an adult.

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Hence old-fashioned collages. It ain't no photoshop but it will do for me.

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[I here by promise to never say or write "ain't" after this point.]