New

So, just now I downloaded the newest version of MSN and with it came something that claims to help you blog; Windows Live Writer. I figured I might as well test it out, and if I don’t like it I can always go back to blogging off of my blogspot account online. What I like so far is that the window I’m typing in is the same width and font as the actual post will be, so I can see exactly how things will look. There are also three tabs at the bottom of the screen that say “edit”, “preview”, and “source” which is pretty handy because in the edit tab you see the size of your post, but not the rest of your blog, in the preview tab you view your post as it would look on your blog, and the source tab is to edit HTML. Okey, so I have just fooled around a bit with uploading pictures. Apologies for the webcam picture, but my camera is in use for my English project. Anyways, the scarf is from mango and its off-white, but definitely not cream and it is incredibly soft. I love it, although I’m a little worried that I’ll get it dirty.

So I all you have to do is insert a picture and you can choose how to align it in the text, AND since you can view it as it will look on your blog it’s really easy to format everything so that it looks nice :)

OOh, and normally, I use Poladroid to make polaroid-y pictures (I like it the most), but this program also has something like it and it turned out alright. It’s just a border though and doesn’t actually change the photo, so I’ll stick with Poladroid.

I’m incredibly tired right now. School has been a killer this week, plus I was sick but still had to show up because if I miss math I’m in trouble. We’ve recently started trig and so we're doing the whole sine, tangent, cosine, secant, cosecant blah blah blah and now we’re doing revolutions and radians and how to convert from radians to degrees. Some days (everyday) I wonder if I will ever survive HL math next year… Hopefully.

In addition to tired, I’m also in pain, because I got my lovely braces tightened. Joy. I can’t wait to get them off and feel my smooth teeth :D Although they have kind of just become part of me and how I look, but I can’t say I’ll miss them. Looking forward to winter break because I get to see my best friend Teresa who moved to Portugal last year. I haven't seen her since summer and it’s been much too long. A week with her will be incredibly nice.

Oh, so all and all I would definitely recommend Windows Live Writer and I’m going to start doing all of my posts from here and then I also won’t have to use photobucket so much. Writer is simple and easy, plus.. well its cool. Next time I’ll have to try out this whole “set publish date” business and see if it actually uploads when I set it to. Sorry the post is soo long, I love writing and I haven’t had many opportunities today ;)

Even More So

Can't be bothered to make a collage right now, but I think everyone should see at least one look from Rodarte's Fall '09 RTW Collection. Absolute genius. I love the higher-than-thigh-high boots with the knitwear. Screw liquid leggings.. we all just need a pair of those..

Photos from style.com

Stunning

Marc Jacobs has always been my favorite designer. And yet again, he proves why. The yellow velvet. I previously would never have been able to imagine myself saying that I absolutely love something made of yellow velvet; but Jacobs has proven to even me that you can in fact love it. The vintage/retro vibe of the collection is awesome and every piece is stunning. When I looked at the whole collection some of it doesn't even "match" which is awesome because who cares if a collection doesn't have the same thing over and over. I was pleased. The purble hoodie is awesome, I could actually see myself buying something like that, while the other clothes I can only dream of affording.. :(

Photos from style.com

I Suppose if You Must.

I'm not really sure what to say. Definitely not as expected. I appreciate the "family friendly" surf ad, while the beach one I don't understand the concept at all, and finally probably my "favorite" the shopping cart; partially because I've wondered what it's like to ride around in one, because Vivienne Westwood is in her own ad, and because it reminds me of Marc Jacobs' ads with the unedited look. All and all they aren't bad, I just can't decide if I actually like them. Props to Anderson. I never would have guessed, but since she has kids maybe she wants something more reputable under her belt.

Rumor Has It

Rumor has it that Christina Aguilera will be designing lines for TopShop! She apperantly will not be replacing Kate Moss (I personally wouldn't mind if she did) but will create clothes to be sold alongside Moss' collection.

Aguilera is stunning and has such original (and always changing) style that I'm really excited to see what she'll do.

Taunt Me All You Want

So, I was browsing through the Topshop website a few weeks ago and discovered these insane pants/leggings. The only problem is I can't seem to find where they are actually for sale, which is extremely dissapointing.

BUT, I won't give up my search. First the actual store, and then on to DIY. I found a pair of similar jeans from Urban Outfitters that are marbled, and then I can order a stud gun (I think?) and just make the pants myself.

View from the Balcony

So this weekend the sun actually came out, although only until around 5, but it was out. I went out on my balcony, since all of the snow has melted off of it and took a couple pictures. The shoes are Nine West and have suffered some abuse (some of the studs fell off) and one has some mysterious pink substance on it, but they are incredibly comfortable nonetheless.

Waiting Til Summer

I'm counting the days until school gets out and summer begins. I'm really looking forward to visiting my best friend in Portugal and wearing these shoes. They are my favorite pair because they are incredibly comfortable and really unique. I got them at Nordstrom last summer and cannot wait until it warms up enough to wear them.

Channel Your Inner Flintstone

I was browsing through style.com a little while ago, when I came across this beautiful dress from Oscar de la Renta. Even though its from the 2007 fall rtw collection, it could still be worked into any wardrobe this season.

My immediate reaction was "FLINTSTONES!!" because the dress reminded me of Fred's outfit, and the necklace of Wilma's. The thing I love about this dress is that it's understated enough to wear, and has beautiful colors and textures.

photo credit: Marcio Madeira (style.com)

Anne and Lindsay

Being in the U.S. this Christmas was good in more ways than one, but one thing I didn't go a day without was a magazine. Here they run up a bill of about $20 a piece, but in the States, you could get 6 magazines for that price! Taking advantage of my situation I got Vogue (which I now have a subscription to) and Harper's Bazaar. I've never really liked Anne Hathaway, but after reading the article in Vogue I was really surprised. She seems like a strong, driven woman who knows what she wants and I really admire that. Also, Lindsay Lohan seems to be making a comeback which I'm excited for because I've always been a fan of her work. (also her style as I've gotten older) It's nice to see that she's trying to work back to a normal lifestyle and acknowledges that the way she was living wasn't doing her any good. I think she looks fabulous both on the cover and in the spread, and I would wear any of her outfits in a snap. My favorite out of all of them though, has to be this one on the left. I've been searching (still am) for the perfect pair of boyfriend/oversize jeans and haven't had the best of luck. There was a perfect pair of Alexander Wang jeans featured in Teen Vogue a while back, but with a price tag of more than $300 I want to be able to say that there really was no alternative before I shell out that much cash. I love how Lohan's shimmery top dresses up an otherwise more casual outfit and also eliminates the need for flashy accessories. The fitted blazer is gorgeous and I love how it's white with black trim as opposed to the more often seen black/navy with white trim. I also admire Lindsay for her more realistic body image. She went through a period where she was scary skinny, but I think nowadays she's back to normal and absolutely stunning.

Resolution

So, since my blog resolution was to put up more things that I wear, here is the first picture. The jeans I just bought this Christmas at Urban Outfitters and I love how they are classic blue jeans. The mustard shirt I've had for some time now, I just didn't know what to pair it with. I really don't like the mustard/deep purple combination that is really big this season, but I wanted another strong color and this grey was perfect. It has just the right amount of blue in it so that it contrasts the shirt. The bracelets are black glass beads from my mom. I went through her jewelry and asked for stuff she doesn't wear. I plan on adding in some gold charms i got at Nordstrom so I'll post about that once I've gotten my act together and done it.

Dedicated to V and our obsession with mustard yellow. <3

Ferragamo

This is the gorgeous scarf that I got for Christmas. The colors are much richer when you actually see it, but I love the acorns and fall flowers going on. The rich purples and browns really stand out against the black and I know that this scarf will become a must-wear item in my wardrobe :)

Day Dreaming

Right now I'm in California, which is awesome except I just found out that there is no American Apparel nearby. Which is really disappointing, but I'm turning to technology and ordering things online. If you order by the 23rd, everything will get there by Christmas!

But, to the picture. I cannot wait until the 27th, when we jet off to Puerto Rico! And so above are some of my poolside/beach essentials:

1.) Limited Edition Frédéric Fekkai Summer Hair Collection: I love this collection. I got it this summer before I went to Santorini and it's amazing. It gives you the "just off the beach" look, while protecting your hair from chlorine and sun exposure.

2.) Estee Lauder High Gloss in Clear: this lip gloss is very natural since it's clear, but ultra-glossy and has amazing moisture that keeps lips supple all day. The only downside: no SPF.

3.) Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock in SPF 55: This sunblock is amazing. I've never gotten sunburned while wearing it and it goes on like lotion. It's not too greasy (considering that all sunblock is a little greasy) and it smells nice too.

4.) VOGUE: Every girl should sit on the beach with the latest copy of VOGUE in her hands. It's my beach must-have. No matter how many times you flip through it, there's always something new that you missed the last time.

5.) Product Red iPod Nano: I love my iPod. I've had it forever and I've never had any problems with it. Laying in the sun listening to music is the definition of my vacations. Just be careful not to drop it in the pool ;)

Rodarte

One of my absolute favorite designers. I absolutely love the style and class that they bring to their clothes while still maintaining a recognizable look. Each collection is different, but if you see a piece from their collection you immediately say, "Rodarte" One of the things they do is play up legs. In the very beginning their collections had soft, almost fishnet-like tights, but they were very loose and knit so they were very chic. Now with Spring 2009 RTW collection they are mixing up their classic with cut out leggings. According to the two sisters behind Rodarte, this collection was inspired by Star Wars! I really like how they mix very sharp, architectural lines with soft knits and colors. The leather jacket is beautiful. I've been looking for a leather jacket for a while, but I want the perfect one and I just haven't found it yet. I think the rough leather jacket with the tailored pants looks amazing and really emphasizes strong independent women. The fabrics are gorgeous and the color combinations beautiful. I love how they brought in elements of orange into their collection; not a color seen to often in chic clothes, but Rodarte pulls it off. My favorite piece in the whole collection was by far this beautiful dress. The colors remind me of the sunset in Santorini; stunning. Even in the photograph, you can see how much movement the dress has and how it flows so beautifully. I have no words, it's gorgeous! And the final thing; shoes. Rodarte has had amazing shoes from the start, and they are never lacking in the shoe department. I love how unique they are and the platforms are incredibly high. Even the models have trouble walking in them! (Abbey Lee, pictured in all black, took a tumble at the show)

Photos: Marcio Madeira

All I Want for Christmas...

So the other day I sent my Christmas wishlist to Santa and here's what I'm wishing for this Christmas:

1.) Influence by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen
I hope I get the one with Mary-Kate on the cover because she is a huge inspiration to me, both fashion and business wise. I admire that she [and Ashley] has actually made a name for herself by working and running a billion dollar business and not just partying and ending up in tabloids.

2.) Tiffany Necklace with my initial
I've been wanting a necklace from Tiffany&Co. for two years, and I finally found the perfect one. It's simple and will go with anything, plus it's not incredibly expensive.

3.) Dior Eyeliner in "Precious Violet"
It's still subtle enough to wear everyday, but the purple changes things up a bit. Plus, purple is the new black this winter :)

4.) Disney's "Ratatouille" DVD
I must say.. one of the greatest movies ever. I absolutely love it. Cooking is a passion of mine and this movie was adorable.

5.) Sony Cybershot DSC W300
My friend C accidentally broke my camera when she tripped at my house, so this is it's replacement. I can't wait to try out the Smile Shutter Mode that automatically takes a picture when people smile!

Party

Not only do I look to friends for music and advice, but also for fashion. My friend M has the perfect holiday party dress. It's totally appropriate for any event because of the above the knee length. It's not too short, not too long. The grey part of the dress is absolutely gorgeous. You can't see it to well in the photo, but it's pleated and looks seashell-like. I also love the white bubble skirt; it's not too puffy and it doesn't look ridiculous, but it's still fun and fresh. I also love how the whole dress has a bit of a shimmer to it. It makes it a little fancier and requires minimal acessorizing (the grey bracelet is perfect). M's has always been fun, but I think this dress suits her perfectly and looks amazing on her as well :)

Miss you M! <3

Gifts

This Christmas, with the financial crisis and economic downturn, finding gifts for friends and family can't break the bank. Making things yourself (scarves, chocolates, jewelry) can help you save a few pennies and can be really personal gifts. Searching through sale racks and discount piles can often produce quite a few really nice gifts.

My one tip: If you know the person, you'll find the present.

Whatever your way to save money this Christmas remember, it's the thought that counts; truly.

Good luck in all your holiday shopping this year <3

3.1 Philip Lim

I absolutely love 3.1 Philip Lim's Spring '09 Collection. The different textures are probably the highlight of the collection. I really like the menswear inspired clothes this year and this vest is no exception (Iekeliene Stange). It's made more feminine with the sequins, but I love how it still has the boxy shape of a more masculine vest. The jumpsuit (Toni Garrn) is beautiful. I actually tried on a black one that is almost exactly the same at Zara the other day. I didn't end up buying it because I wasn't exactly sure when i would be able to wear it (surely not to school.) After I got home of course, I realized it would be perfect for Puerto Rico. It can be a beach cover-up and then be dressed up with heels and a big necklace (Marni anyone??) for dinner. Back to Lim's collection though. This simple white dress looks stunning on Georgie Badiel and I love how the shoes are the focal point of the outfit. I adore shoes and I love the flower-like feel to these shoes, but with the metallic edge. I would pair these gold booties with black jeans and a cream/white sweater and couple bracelets and then out the door. For me, I think the wear ability of this collection is what makes it really stand out.

Alexander Wang

This man is by far the master of menswear inspired women's clothing. His designs have sharp silhouettes and the menswear vibe, but stay feminine with sheer tights and tanks, and loosely fitted tees. The entire collection I would wear in a snap, but the three outfits pictured below were my favorite. I love the skinny jeans with a loose white shirt, and a strong menswear inspired vest with kick ass leather booties. It's the perfect look for this winter. As for the oversized shirt with leggings, it's easy, comfortable and still looks put together. The sheer tank in the third outfit adds a bit of glamor and takes the outfit from day to night. The colors (or lack thereof) are amazing. I love the muted greys, blacks, and browns throughout the entire collection.

Marni

I absolutely love these necklaces from Marni. They can be worn summer/and winter (I mention summer because I'm counting down the days until my New Year's vacation to Puerto Rico). They are big and chunky and the perfect accessory to complete an outfit without trying to hard (perfect for me). They are resin with satin ribbon and I would put one on my Christmas wish list, but sadly, with price tags raking in at above 300 Euro.. maybe I'll have to find an alternative. I'll be on the lookout for look-a-likes and I'll let you know what I find :) My favorite are the left, and center, but I still love the one on the right too.