Carrie On...

I'm so excited for the forecasted 70 degree weather tomorrow through the weekend. The city comes to life in the Spring and I relish in the long days, outdoor seating, lounging in the park, and weekend getaways to the beach. I'm still trying to edit down my spring time look. I've spent most of my day looking at different websites, designers, movies, etc and fell in love all over again with Carried Bradshaw. Who doesn't love her?! Maybe it's Pat Fields we really need to be worshipping...Regardless scene after scene I'm always taking note of every ensemble from head to toe. I did a quick search for images from the sequel and this is what I stumbled upon...

{insider.com}

You can't not love this look. The simplicity is what draws me in. No fuss! Just a great white dress in an everyday cut with killer sunnies (my weakness). Contemplating renting this Halston dress for a weekend from Rent The Runway.

{filmgecko.com}

LOVING! A great color, sensible silhouette, and it can be paired with anything to dress it up or down. Am I trying too hard to make this fit in my boho+industrial+feminine mold?! I think not. While home over Christmas I purchased a pair of gold barely there sandals that would coordinate perfectly!

{dailyfill.com}

I feel like this look receives such mixed emotions. I couldn't love it any more. A voluminous extravagant skirt is exactly what is on my radar. Dying over the styling with the t-shirt and casual jacket, not to mention knock out shoes, and an ethnic bag. Of course that's what you wear in the desert!...and for me making it's way to the concrete jungle!

{posh24.com}

Another Halston dream (also available at Rent the Runway). For the last couple of summers I have been sporting turban headbands. A friend I used to work with made a "beginner pattern" for me to follow and I haven't stopped turning them out since. It's easy to spruce up any outfit, keeps my hair out of my face, and has just been fun! While home for Christmas I made something very similar to the one picture above. I've been keeping it at bay and waiting until the warmer weather was introduced to dawn it. I love the idea of wearing it as a dressy option. Maybe this weekend will be the official debut (aka finally a wardrobe diary post, I'll admit it, I've been slacking).

Dear Spring, I hope you will be making an appearance this week. Your RSVP is a maybe but I've made room for you at the party. Come along won't you?!

What I Want Now...

I'm officially itching for more sunny spring weather. The buckets of rain the last couple of days have just been enough. Crossing my fingers for warm weather this weekend and trying to narrow down my wardrobe for the spring and summer. It's hard for me to explain the look and feel I have in mind. Somewhere along the lines of boho+industrial+feminine. Like I said, really hard to put into words so this is where the visual aids come in!

{style.com}

I loved the look of Isabel Marant's s/s collection. It was infused with bold hues, easy flowing silhouettes, and nomadic/bohemian accents (ie feathers and fringe). It has a laid back vibe that is still relevant to city living. And the boots, who doesn't love a Marant boot!?

{style.com}

I was greatly surprised at how much I loved the D&G collection. It was a strong departure from what they are known for, but still held onto the brand's provocation and sex appeal. Delicate lace and eyelets worn with distressed denim and leather. Since I saw the collection I have been mentally planning to pair my dad's old denim button up with a J.Crew eyelet hem dress, beat up cognac belt, and reworked cowboy boots. I can't wait for the warmer weather!!!!!! I adore the lace micro mini shirt dress with, once again, fringe boots.

I know this is just the beginning of my must have list, but this year I really want to keep a focused and edited look for an entire season. Did I just present a challenge to myself?!!? You lovelies might be holding me accountable!... TBD

Mane Attraction...

I know I'm long over due for this post... and at this point you've seen a couple images of me with my new cut, but still thought I would do a proper post and introduction! About a month ago I walked into Senses Salon on 5th Ave to see my hair guru Sidney. It had been a few months since my last visit and I was desperate for a change...Not that anything is that different. I took out the blue, exterminated the rat tail, and shaved the sides... I still owe you decent pictures of the actual cut, but for now this will have to suffice!

{image:: Nate Poekert}

I took in a picture of Kate Lanphear and walked out with a cut similar and better than I could have imagined! Super long on the top with a long side sweeping bang, shaved on both sides, and short in the back...In love with the style. Sidney never fails me!

Thought I would make up for my tardiness with a blast from the past! I'm very tempted to do my hair like this again, at some point! Not much has changed except for my hair...is that semi-disappointing?!

{me at age 2}

Dinner Turned Test Shoot...

Saturday night I headed to Prospect Heights for dinner with some friends. Kory had recently purchased a $16 bottle of BBQ sauce from William Sonoma and volunteered to make burgers. After some grubbing, chit chatting, video game action, and apartment tours Nate set up an impromptu studio. We took our turns posing for the camera as if we had just walked down the red carpet...And lets be honest, my friends and I have no problem being in front of a camera...we're a bunch of hams! What started as a simple quick snap turned into a complete production with hair, make up, and wardrobe changes...

Matty Mo:: admissions counselor, improv actor, karaoke enthusiast

Joe:: music snob & tattoo advocate working in the music biz, cookie baker/inventor, official little brother, confidant...and southern gentlemen!

Hilary:: musical theatre performer, dancer, Cali girl

Chanel:: editor, coordinator, love guru, blogger

Lauren:: producer, executive director/co-founder of The Love Alliance...and one of the funniest people I have met in a long time! Love how her hair blends in with the background!

Chinae:: pr/marketing director, fashion cohort, my rock

Nate:: interactive producer, photographer, musician, creative

Kathleen:: program associate, wife, future script writer, knock out

(they could be sisters)

Becky:: unofficial roommate, bag designer, fashion soulmate

Candice:: hair stylist, parisian enthusiast, passionate soul

K-Ball:: writer, blogger, connector, Texan!

Sarah:: marketer, blogger, future furniture designer

Victor:: stuntman, generous giver, my neighbor & 'lil bro'

Nathan:: improv actor, husband, world traveler, supporter

And yours truly!!!!

I'm not sure why photo shoots are always calling for big budgets... Here are the props from our test shoot...

*door

*lamp sans shade

*basic fan.

*paper plate

Photographer:: Nate Poekert

Make Up:: Chinae Alexander

Hair Stylist:: Candice Evans

Fashion Stylist:: ME!

Foodie Bits...

If you follow me on twitter, or know me personally, you are aware of the fact that I'm a bit of a foodie. Not too intense, but I love and appreciate a good meal...especially if it's homemade. When I'm in Texas my cuisine of choice is of course Mexican. Since living in New York I have found a special place amongst my taste buds for Korean. I think I could almost eat it everyday...every meal! I wasn't inspired to cook anything tonight (mainly cause of my lack of groceries) and I wanted something along the lines of comfort food. While lazily sitting on my couch trying to think of what it could be, it hit me... Bibimbop. There is a great Korean fusion restaurant (B-Bap) a few blocks from my apartment that I had forgotten about and neglected since last summer.

Ingredients:: white rice, beef, carrots, eggs, mushrooms, bean sprouts, seasonal veggies, and chili pepper sauce.

Here's a few images of some delicious dishes from my past....

::Hash Brown Casserole... Thanks to ERA's grandmother. My favorite Thanksgiving dish for the last two years!

::Tilapia pasta dish...Impromptu dinner when I was home for Christmas. I think it was tomatoes, olives, and lemon butter sauce.

I went to Maine last summer with a few friends and the food was as good as the scenery.

::Nathan and Victor made us pancakes as breakfast appetizers...Banana, chocolate, FRESH blueberry.

And what is Maine without a lobster boil?!

::Lobster, grilled corn on the cob, and blue cheese mac & cheese... Mac & Cheese has become my go-to dish for all potluck events. It's easy to adjust the recipe for portions and you can make it a zillion different ways.

For a better foodie inspired blog, please check out Beauty and the Feast...You will be fashionably inspired and hungry!!!!

Words of Wisdom...

I think Audrey Hepurn was on to something...

{crave}

Hope everyone has fun plans for the weekend!!!!!!

Red Light::Fall Preview

Yesterday I went to the Soho showroom for one of my favorite PR companies, Red Light PR. I've only been working with them for a few months, but love the brands they rep and adore the staff. Every time I'm in the showroom, I try to convince them to let me work from their office so we can hang out all the time! Probably not the best idea if we want to stay productive. I went to the showroom to preview the fall collections from their designers. I was so excited to find new inspiration and quickly fell in love with pretty much every piece I saw. Both the men's and women's collections were amazing. What I love about RL is they represent an array of brands and designers...Literally they could dress you, head to toe, for every event throughout your day from the gym-to work-to a black tie event-and even to bed. I had the best time and even walked away with a few goodies.

Tulle Clay Sleeveless Hooded Vest:: courtesy of RL and Tulle.

I saw this hanging and new I had to own it! I'm obsessed with the color, it's perfect for spring/summer and fits the bill for my alternate to a jacket for warmer weather. If you're unaware I have a habit of layering pieces as I get dressed.

Public Library Vintage T:: courtesy of RL and Public Library.

I'll be living in this t-shirt all summer. It's unbelievably light weight and tissue thin. It has a burnout texture to the fabric and come on, who doesn't love the police?! Fell in love with Public Library, they make the softest t-shirts that have amazing silhouettes and baller graphics.

Tulle Plaid Pearl Snap Tunic:: courtesy of RL and Tulle.

By now you are completely aware of my love for all things plaid, especially over sized shirts. There was no way this was escaping my deadly grip. It has adjustable side straps so you can shorten the hem and sleeve lengths. Perfect as the weather continues to warm up...well eventually!

Hoodie Buddie Zip Up:: courtesy of RL and Hoodie Buddie

This is going to blow your mind. First off, this is one of the softest hoodies I've ever felt in my entire life. I will definitely be living in this year round as it has quickly become my travel partner...let me explain. In the right pocket there is a plug in for you ipod/phone. The pull strings connected to the hood are your ear buds. YEP, you read that right and it's washable! COME ON!!!! So no more searching for your headphones at the bottom of your bag or having them tangled in a million knots. Why didn't I think of this sooner?!

Spreegirl Rouched Shorts:: courtesy of RL and Spreegirl

Ok we're about to get personal... I hate sleeping in pants or shorts, it makes me feel constricted. When I move/roll over/turn I feel like I'm catching the extra fabric and can't get as comfortable as I would like to be. That all is about to change. I got this pair of adorable ballet pink bamboo fiber shorts. They are incredibly soft, eco-friendly, and ridiculously comfortable. I need these in a zillion different colors...immediately!

Thank you so much to Red Light for having me check out the new collections and thank you to everyone that gifted pieces!

Bright Now...

I've started to store away my fall and winter garments to make way for fresh new spring merchandise. Despite working in the fashion industry for more than a couple years now, I still have not adjusted to purchasing months prior to season. I'm the buy now, wear now type of shopper...It just feels like cheating a little bit, but there is always that one piece I'm kicking myself for hesitating on. I'm attempting to get a little ahead of myself this season (let's be honest, I'm already behind) as I start my S/S 2010 inspiration/"die to have board." As previously mentioned my style is often a bit schizophrenic and I'm feeling a pull to girlish frocks and bright rays of color to kick off the warmer weather.

It came as no surprise to me when I was bookmarking looks and images from Tracy Reese's spring collection. Reese caught my attention at the beginning of my fashion obsession. Her silhouettes are always flawless, functional, and accentuating for a variety shapes. Can we talk about the color?! I'm dying to get my daily dose of essential vibrancy from this tangerine color. The mixing, matching, and pairing kept the color quenched so it was never obnoxious nor outdated. And the duo of prints (floral and animal)... LOVING!!!

It could be that the blue hues are a great accent to the tangerine, yes?! no?! maybe so?! Regardless it is a color I want to incorporate into my wardrobe more. I'm vibing to find it a home amongst an array of denim options. It is the perfect color, fitting for all skin tones. A great color to pair with your go-to neutrals (white, black, khaki, and the ever popular grey) and accessorize with vivacious stand out accessories, shoes, sunnies, etc! Can we talk about the dress in the middle?! Adorable and so easy, a last minute rush out the door savior. Contemplating the purchase of a similar dress in ivory at H&M and soaking it in a warm blue bath for a bit... The short sleeve cropped jacket (I'm gonna say something I never use to describe clothes)...precious!!!

If you aren't familiar with Tracy Reese please go to her website or flagship store (in the Meat Packing District). Her collections can dress you for any occasion you could ever have. I think I might spend some of tomorrow at her store, lusting after everything and wishing for the smallest swatch to call my own!...

{all images style.com}

Prints Charming...

{image from lefashion}

I'm pretty sure I'm preaching to the choir when it comes to this post, but I couldn't help but draw attention to Miu Miu's S/S collection. Who knew we would all love a print so much?! Lets be honest for a second, a pastel print for spring is nothing ground breaking. Look back a few seasons...Rachel Comey's F/W 08 had a heavy hand in an almost completely print designed collection. Why weren't we swooning and pining then?!?!

Clearly it's about timing, Miu Miu got it right as something fresh and new that the ladies want! I think it's also has to do with how feminine and girly the collection was with a hint of provocation. We've had a couple seasons of played up androgyny...Wearing over sized pieces, with boyfriend cut this/that. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the androgynous look, I'm guilty of wearing an over sized cardigan and boyfriend cut t-shirt right now. But as we welcome in the constant sunshine and warmer weather, I think our dbl X chromosomes are itching to be in flirty frocks every now and then.

The collection was designed and styled from head to toe. Who isn't trying to swipe up every last pair of the amazing printed clogs.

I DIE... BANANAS...SHUT IT DOWN... There really aren't too many things that can describe the perfection of the footwear. I've already expressed to you my obsession with clogs here, here, and here... but my love affair just hasn't seized. My big hopes, dreams, and fashion obsessions don't exactly match my small wallet so I've found a less expensive pair of Chanel inspired clogs. Before I was content on my one pair but now after reevaluating my love for the Miu Miu shoes, I might purchase two and try to DIY a pair of printed clogs. Hmmmmmmmmmm

{shoe images::style.com}

Who am I kidding?! I'm no shoemaker or designer!!!! But I'm going to try anyways!!!! It has potential to be a complete disaster, or it could turn out just as adorable as the aforementioned. Stand by for results!!!

Goat Gloat...

In my previous post I was holding a new over sized clutch I recently received from London! My dear sweet London squatter and bestie, Becky, has been in school studying leather accessory design. As you will quickly realize, she's GENIUS! After I received my fox tail in the mail a couple of weeks ago I commissioned a job from Becky. I specifically requested an over sized clutch that could be the vehicle for my new fur accoutrement but play double duty as stylish accessory, laptop case, and well let's be honest, Becky is going to be HUGE with her own line and I want to say I have a one of a kind original. Last Thursday she arrived from London (month long spring break... LUCKY) and this is what arrived with her. I died when I saw it and it has not left my side since.

Dark almost black goat leather. It's luxurious and fabulous. I still can't get over it! The flap covers just enough and is beautiful.

{back view}

{she put two pegs for the bottom of the bag}

I'm crazy about the lining. Not at all what I would have excepted and it makes me love it even more. The lining secures my laptop from being scratched by keys, iPods, camera, and whatever else it is I throw in my bag on any given day. I also have to call your attention to the rings on either side. Again, multi functional...I can hook the fur tail to either side (or multiples as I continue to collect) and it allows me to clip on a strap for the days I need to be hands free and mobile. How is she so good and know me so well?!

So I didn't mean to gloat about my bag, but I had to share it with you. The design is perfect and the construction impeccable. Becky has really out done herself!

Wardrobe Diaries:: Proenza Schouler Spring

I woke up this morning and it felt like the sun was shining brighter than ever. I was super excited to spend the day outside and inspired to find a new outfit to welcome the 60 degree weather. I was clicking through a folder of spring runway images and stopped when I came to this image from Proenza Schouler's spring collection. The collection was inspired from the duo's time at the beach when surfer girls literally dressed the part.

{style.com}

At first I turned my nose up at the shirt tied around the waist... thinking back to middle school days when it was cool to tie jackets and what have you, so you were hands free. I gave it a second thought and this is what I came up with....

I wore my oversized men's button down as a skirt. It was a little tricky to hide the collar bulk, but I quickly fell in love.

Cardigan: Rodarte for Target lace mustard cardigan

Shirt: Target black racer back tank

"Skirt": Thrifted men's button down shirt

Shoes: Target metallic strappy sandals

Accessories: Urban Outfitters Sunnies, Horn Necklace (unknown designer)

Bag: Oversized clutch...gift that just arrived from London last night... details soon!!!

Burberry Year Round

{images from style.com}

I was clicking through images of Burberry's Fall collection...again, and couldn't help but long for another Fall season that is all about jackets and coats. After being in NY for a handful of fall/winter seasons, a jacket isn't just another layering piece but a necessity. All four of these jackets would integrate perfectly into my wardrobe. The fur (i'm hoping it's not faux) is just another great fluffy piece that is luxurious and warm. The cropped over sized leather jacket is stunning...and fur lined!!!! You got me UNCLE UNCLE!!!!! I would be tempted to wear this year round even though the weather doesn't permit. The cropped cream jacket is the ideal silhouette to literally throw over anything::skirts, dresses, jeans, shorts, you name it! So stinking adorable! The color and collar on the green is to die for! And I must say, these knee high boots, tons of buckles, lined in shearling=the epitome of the perfect, no, best winter shoe.

I was so inspired and excited for the fall collection, I decided to take a trip to the past (Spring 2010) and check out that collection. I was quickly reminded of the draped body con skirts I had stashed away in last season's folder. I loved the draping and ruching on the skirts. Easy to be dressed up or down, perfect for an assortment of fabrics, and essential to pair with feminine socks and clogs or wedges.

{images from style.com}

I spent a while focusing on this skirt. I tried to find a retailer in my vicinity so I could purchase it, and before I could give a second thought to throwing down the big bucks I found the answer. I found a DIY tutorial for the skirt. In the 5-6 steps, I knew it was meant to be and would save me a pretty penny (maybe for the brown fur coat)! Check out tutorial here...I'm sure you'll find some more inspiring and sensational projects and images from the very talented fashion savvy creative at her blog Fashion Infusion.

{image from fashion infusion}

Kate the Great...

By now you are well aware of my love, respect, and admiration for Kate Lanphear. Not only is she the epitome of style but she has a vision and point of view that is inspiring and encouraging. I was sheltering myself from the rain this weekend and camped out at a friend's apartment with a stack of magazines, playlist of movies, and Peruvian food. I was paging through the most recent issue of Elle Magazine when I came across a spread called Anything but Ordinary. I looked at the first image and knew instantly who had styled the feature. I'm obsessed with the images and pairings. The feature is styled literally from head to toe (those blond ringlets)! I took some shoddy pictures with my phone so please excuse the quality.

I've been trying to talk my mother into making me khaki cape/trench hybrid like this forever. I love it!!!! Perfect for chillier spring weather.

In love with this look. Leather skirt that has the tail of a white button down peeking out at the bottom. How adorable!!!

There is my fox tail again! So glad that I have my very own to work with!

I don't think I've seen a fanny pack look this stylish ever!!! This image is all about reworking the way you wear basic items..sideways and around the neck/shoulders, DUH!!!!

So jealous of my friend that has a meeting with Kate tomorrow...but can't wait to hear details of how lovely she is!!!!

{all images Elle Magazine}