Designer vs DIYer

I was perusing through a copy of one of my favorite fashion mags looking for a little inspiration the other day and spotted a super rad bag via Kate Spade! 

I love the witty design paired with Ms. Spade's ever sleek aesthetic. 

But I thought to myself. This isn't the first time I'd seen a sketch type hand bag. A few months back, I remembered a similar accessory caught my eye in a DIY post on refinery 29.








So I begin to wonder. Which came first the designer or the DIYer? 

Delicious Delights on Wheels

Beautiful Fall Weather + Lunch Time Craving = The oh so delicious YES! Taco

Image via Tim Lautensack

For all you Fort Worth dwellers, there is a new kid in town and let me tell you he is serves a mean burrito! YES! Taco, a tasty taco truck which resides on Magnolia Ave., serves a variety of proteins in a couple different wrap options. You can order one of the truck's signature tacos, burritos, quesadilla and more. 

I have enjoyed my fair share of delicious truck delights and YES! Taco ranks among the best! So, if you are out enjoying an afternoon in Cowtown or need a festive catered cuisine check out the bright orange truck serving a fresh twist on the classic mexican street food! 

Food via Pearls & Bliss; Truck via Tim Lautensack

Make a new friend here

or follow 

@yestaco 

A Rebel Reborn

Image via Elle.com

With fall rolling in and menswear on my mind, I set out a search for a little feminine meets masculine yesterday. To my delight, I discovered the perfect combination on the pages of Elle. 

In the shoot, Chateau Dreams, the beautiful Agyness Deyn is reborn as the original rebel without a cause, mister James Dean. 

I am entranced by the delicate balance of each image. And I am even more in love knowing that the ever talented James Franco is the master behind the lens. Everything about this shoot makes me swoon. 

Image via Elle.com

Southern Street Style

Images via Mosey!

                            


Mosey!


If you are anything like me, you are always on the look out for a little fashion inspiration. Well my friends, look no further. Two southern gals are bringing it close to home!!


Anna Routh, a Dallas based photographer, and one of my favorite local artists Lauren Essel of Blue Eye Brown Eye  have joined forces to become the self proclaimed Purveyors of DFW Fashion!! How fun is that? 

Now that I know these ladies will be on the look out around my neck of the woods, you can bet I will be adding a little extra flare to my look! 


Take a minute to connect with Mosey! here and here 

Gravity defying Fashion

It is a beautiful moment when exceptional creative photography and fashion collide. 

Over New York; 1963
Melvin Sokolsky

Melvin Sokolsky's collection of models seemingly defying gravity is far beyond the time and limitations of the genre. This work spoke to me as a photographer striving to find inspiration within the world that surrounds me and as a woman seeking a deeper expression of self through fashion. 


I think I could stare at this work for ages and still be mystified by the simplicity of the setting and the graceful nature of each muse. 

On the Seine, Paris; 1963                                                                        In Trees, Paris; 1963 

story via What's up! trouvaillesdujour

Big Voice in a Tiny Desk

The mister sent me a wonderful link to brighten my Friday afternoon. So  in true love fashion I am sending it to you!!


















The Tiny Desk is a brilliant concert series produced by NPR Music during which amazing musicians, like my favorite Adele, literally set up stage behind producer Bob Boilen's tiny desk. This ingenious setting provides the artist an intimate space to make magic happen. Check it out and share you favorite!! 

Lawrence is so Lovely

One of my very favorite things is finding new and wonderful vintage inspired sites! 

Lawrence is a lovely little site just launch by the beautiful Frankie Zmetra. 

This site has an array of feminine pieces from the 20's to 90's and every decade in between. To get a little more perspective on the woman behind the shoppe, check out her inspiration tumblr. 

Banana Republic has gone Mad!

For Mad Men that is!

If you are anything like me, your heart sank a little when AMC announced that Mad Men would be on hiatus until next year. What is a girl to do when needing a little Don Draper fix? Why shop of course! And for what better than Mad Men inspired threads. 


Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant teamed up with Banana to create shear genius. Now all of the seemingly untouchable masterpieces on the show, are available to the masses! (and at a pretty affordable cost)

The collection will be available online August 10 and will be in a store near you this fall! 

These are just a few of my favorites, but check out here and here to start your wish list today!! I would love to hear what you can't wait to own. 

Paris Inspiration

After watching the incredible L'amour Fou this past Sunday, Paris fashion has been on my mind more than ever. So it is only fitting that I stumbled across this post that is intrinsically parisian!!

Head over to Everything Fabulous for the complete Hermes Guide to Summer Scarf Knotting and ENJOY!

L'amour Fou

The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is one of the crown jewels of the city's cultural district. It is home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art pushing the boundaries of the sometimes conservative Texan. 

Many residents and visitors are familiar with the architectural beauty which contains the likes of Anselm Kiefer, Robert Motherwell, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Gerhard Richter, Susan Rothenberg, Richard Serra, Andres Serrano, Cindy Sherman, and Andy Warhol.  What many people may not be acquatinted with are the incredible films showcased weekly at Magnolia at the Modern.


This film house is one of the very best places to see hard to find foreign and independent movies in the area. My most recent Magnolia indulgence? L'amour Fou. 

This french masterpiece documents the life and death of famed fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. 
I should start by saying that I approached the film expecting to encounter a story about a designer and his creations, but what I got was something completely unexpected. 


Director Pierre Thoretton created shear genius within the ninety-eight minute retrospective. The story begins with the young and somewhat naive Yves becoming creative successor to the Christian Dior empire. A young man of only 21 with a responsibility to a nation. Pierre Berge, Saint Laurent's long time lover and business partner, narrates the tumultuous tale from the designer's rise to fame until his death in 2008. 

via IMDB

He recounts the entire ingenious journey of his lover while all the time paralleling Saint Laurent's admiration of art with the evolution of his own creations. Berge's unique prospective and personal manner provides a depth to the film that elevates a simple biography to a passion-filled love story. 

via IMDB

I highly recommend moving this film to the top of your Queue immediately! I would love to know what you think or what your favorite film is. 

Captivated by her Beauty

While enjoying my daily dose of coffee this morning and a quick peek into the lives of some of my favorite fellow bloggers, I happened upon this post by Sfgirlbybay (Love her!!).

In Jeana Shohn's expansive body of work, women are photographed in the private sanctuary of their home. Shohn interviews the stunning beauties in all things fashion. Challenging the portrait subjects to pull inspiration from their own closet to model for the camera. The work is honest and provoking. 

Just the sort of thing a girl like me needs to get back on her fashion game!! 

I have looked through a number of pics and have featured some here, but I would love to know some of your favorites! Is there any one picture or muse that speaks to your personal style? 

The winds of Change

As you might have noticed, I have been absent lately from this little blog I cherish so. 

Things have been very busy and to tell you the truth I have focused my energy on so many other things of late. Which, of course, has left me feeling unfulfilled and somewhat resentful of the day to day.

I happened upon this quote last week and it really put things into perspective: 

"Things that matter most must never be at the mercy of things that matter least" - Goethe

The winds of change are on the horizon. I am readying my life for a new adventure and I have to keep these words in the fore front of my mind while doing so. 

A Clever act of Kindness

I happened upon one of the most clever acts of kindness this week during my usual expedition through the blogosphere. This traveling poet is spreading her message to the masses.



repost via designmom

Check out the rouge seamstress here for the complete story!!

I love this. Spreading a little bit of joy and wisdom one garment at a time!!

What do you think?? Is this something you would dare to do in your community?

Don't be Deceived by the Name!!

New Yorkers Shira Entis and Alex Bell are the creative master minds behind the eco-friendly tote line Fleabags, founded in 2009. According to their site the duo were, "Frustrated by the inconvenience and environmental hazard of accumulating several plastic bags while marketing, they craved a convenient and fashion-hot tote that could fit all of their wares." 

Thus the creation of the beautifully crafted American-made totes.

The Original Flea: Nantucket; Salt Bag: Aquarium; The Original Flea: Pebble

Reasons to LOVE Fleabags!! via fleabg.com

Fleabags are ideal Flea market totes
Friends and family have used them for weekends away, trips to the beach, to the grocery store and to carry anything numerous or unwieldy.
They are sturdy and made of eco-friendly materials.
Organic Cotton / Hemp Canvas Vegetable-Tanned,
American and Italian Leathers
Water-Based Ink
Locally Made in New York By Hand In Limited Edition

Check out this wonderful story via The New York Times in which the pair offers great flea market shopping advice!!  

A Magical Night of Theatre

I had the pleasure of attending a fantastic evening of theatre this week at the incredible Winspear Opera House! This breath taking structure is the temporary home to the traveling cast of Billy Elliot: The Musical.  

My lovely parents and the mister joined me for the mid-week performance. It was a fun "double date" night to break up the monotony of the week. (And mid-week or matinee performances are always a little easier on the wallet)


I approached the show with an open mind since I wasn't really sure what to expect and I must say I was blown away. For starters, the production value was incredible. I have been lucky enough to take in a few shows on Broadway and compared the touring cast was fantastic. Billy Elliot: The Musical had astonishing depth and content far beyond the surface fun of the title. The leads and supporting ensemble dealt with real life political issues and struggles intertwined with the beauty of dance and song. 

I felt the masterful execution of the blend between the adult subject matter and the consistent childlike enthusiasm throughout the young cast members was extraordinary. (If you have seen the production, the best example is when the police/picketers are waring between the ballet class) Amazing!


My favorite scene above all the rest was the dreamlike ballet duet performed by the young Billy and his adult counterpart. I was almost to tears by the end of their dance. 


The show is only here a few more days, but the tour is nationwide! So check and see if it is coming your way anytime soon. 

Paris on my Mind

Can you say Bonjour?? I know that I can! 

Blogger Jordan Ferney, of the incredible Oh Happy Day!, is making it easy by rewarding one of her loyal readers with the trip of a lifetime! Have you guess where yet? Why Paris of course!! 

Enter Here

The contest will be open from today until the end of the month, but you better get your entry in as soon as possible. Because at the rate people are entering, you don't want to be last on the list!! 

Wearing a Work of Art

As a walked through the office this morning, I happened upon a lovely piece of art. This handcrafted genius was not where one my expect hanging from the wall or placed to precision in my path. This unique sculpture of sorts was parading through the office on the feet of my co-worker!


I love when I am inspired to post by the creativity and vision of the people who surround me. My co-worker just returned from a recent trip to NYC. While there, she did a little shopping in SOHO and became the owner of a fabulous pair of Irregular Choice shoes!! 

Duke, Spat Attack,  Lola Clutch Bag

This England based enterprise, founded in 1999, offers an entire collection of crazy, elaborate and spectacular fashion. I have selected a few of my favs to share, but there are so many wonderful creations on their site to satisfy your Monday blues. 

Patty Clutch Bag, Abigails Party, So-Yeon Sarah

Here's to a little shoe therapy!! 

Mangos are in Season

I was so excited to stumble upon a delightful clothing line this afternoon!! Mango is a world-wide brand offering clothing for all!

The line is totally amazing. I have posted a few of my favorites here, but I would love to hear what caught your eye. Check out their site and leave a comment below of your favorite piece from the current collection!!!

Knowledge is Power

Today was a great day! The company that I work for is celebrating their tenth year in business and has created an awesome program, Ten Random Acts of Kindness, to honor the occasion. The program is designed to commemorate the achievement by giving back to the community that has helped them thrive. 


We participated in our third act of ten this afternoon. For the past two weeks, our office has been collecting children's books from friends, neighbors and local stores in preparation for a free book fair. In total, we collected over 800 books! Our company selected a school only a few miles from the office and set up the fair with the school officials. 

The team of volunteers went to the library this morning and set up a few tables lined with books. Teachers brought their classes by one at a time in 15 minute intervals and each student got to take home one book to keep for summer reading. It was awesome!! The kids were so excited and absolutely grateful. It was so neat watching them carefully select their prized piece of literature and inscribe their name on the inside cover. 

I felt so inspired by the simple joy of receiving and giving such a humble gift. It has motivated me to look for more opportunities to get involved in my local community! Do you volunteer? Is there a program that you recommend getting involved in? 

I challenge you to introduce this idea to your company, church or group of friends! You don't have to take on a whole school like we did. Start small. Maybe just one grade or a local children's program like the Boys and Girls Club. I guarantee any help you are willing to offer will make a difference to your neighbor. 

Sunny Weekend Ahead

I don't know about you, but I am itching to get this holiday weekend started!! The weather is going to be fantastically warm with nothing by blue skies on the horizon. The mister and I only have a few things on the schedule including a fantastic Saturday night with friends enjoying the spectacular Cowtown Hoedown. If you have never made it out, this is the weekend to join!! Be sure to find me and say hello. 


As for the actual Memorial Day, we have some pending lake plans that I have my fingers crossed will solidify! I could use a day full of vitamin D and breezy relaxation. Refinery 29 has the perfect weekend outfits for the occasion! This is my favorite!! I LOVE the vintage inspired cover up. 

Check out the rest of their weekend looks here and find your favorite! Do you have any big plans?? I would love to hear all about them and will be sure to share pics from mine next week. 

Hello Lovely

We live in a world that is measured by quick turn around and instant, but not always fulfilling gratification. There are countless emails and online messages exchanged at such a rapid rate that we have all but lost the art of hand written well constructed correspondence. 


Thankfully there are artists/craftsmen who have clung to and given rebirth to the long ago tradition of well made paper goods. Blue Eye Brown Eye is a Fort Worth based letterpress and design company owned/operated by the lovely Ms. Lauren.  I met the creative calligraphy goddess while taking one of her private how to letterpress classes. I highly recommend this for a fun date night or just a way to build your knowledge of hand crafted goods. 


I am proud to share with you the success of one of her newest ventures, pretty little monogramed cards.

Available now at Anthropologie

I cherish my delightful little hand made stationary crafted by individually placed vintage type blocks and hand mixed ink. Each time I draft a letter to a loved one, I know my message is wonderfully complimented by the unique beauty of the stationary. 

Check out the full product line of Blue Eye Brown Eye here!

A bittersweet farewell

Today marks a very bittersweet farewell. One of my dearest friends, Kat, is biding adieu to her warm southern home and preparing to make a fresh start in oh so beautiful Denver.  

Funny Face Movie Still with Audrey Hepburn

I am so excited for her, but a little sad mixed with a hint of envy for me. I have a hard time allowing myself to become vulnerable and open. Because of this, I have a limited number of people of which I consider friends and now I am losing one to the north. I know it is a little silly and I am making it seem like the next great civil war, but I am already mourning the loss of our after work happy hours and girl time. 


In addition to loosing her, I am so envious of her impending journey. The thought of unknown adventures on the horizon is so exhilarating! I love change. I adore the movement and progression of all that I know. And now she is off to conquer new heights and I am still searching for the next step on my path. 


While I continue the search, I will be happy for my friend and empowered by her bold decision to make a change and take a chance on the possibilities ahead. 


Best of luck sweet friend. I will see you soon!! 

Tuesday Tutorial: Simply Sophisticated Up-do

I love finding fun how-tos online. Tutorials covering everything from new trendy  hairstyles to DIY tips on one of a kind gifts! I am a perpetual student soaking in all the exciting knowledge those around me are willing to offer. So to pay it forward, I have decided to start a new blog tradition of my own. This will be the first of hopefully many Tuesday Tutorials. 


The Simply Sophisticated Up-Do: 

• Step 1: It is always helpful to start with hair a day after it has been washed. (It adds volume and is easier to manipulate.)
• Step 2: Gather one inch piece of hair from the left side of your face right above the ear. 
• Step 3: Pull one inch piece behind the center part of your head and pin piece to scalp. (It is best to use bobby pins in a similar shade to your hair color. )
• Step 4: Repeat step 2 & 3 from the right side. Make sure you cross over the already pinned left side. The criss cross pinning gives the illusion of a french braid. 
• Step 5: You will continue these steps working your way one inch at a time down towards the nape of your neck. ( I usually pull two - three pieces from each side, but this is your preference based on the desired look and length of your hair)
• Step 6: Once you have "braided" the top section, you will gather the remaining hair and roll upward. (Placing the roll on top instead of underneath provides a more seamless look between the braid and the roll)
• Step 7: Use the same bobby pins to secure the roll to the scalp. I recommend pinning both openings of the roll into the bottom section of the braid. (It helps to use a few large pins in the center to secure)

That is it! It might take a few tries, but once you master this up-do you will be able to look totally put together for a day at the office or a cocktail evening. It really is the simplest sophisticated look! 

I would love to hear your feedback on this post. I really want to offer insight and advice on things you love. So if there is anything you want to learn or need help mastering, just let me know!! 

Stormy Nights Ahead

According to the weatherman, there are major storms ahead. Many people might get a little down at the thought of having to stay in doors during the weekend, but not yours truly. I love the rain. I adore the sound, the smell and the sentimental mood it puts me in. 


For the stormy night ahead, the mister and I have an indoor date night planned. I have been eagerly awaiting the announcement of Blue Valentine in my cue and like perfect timing it arrived in my mailbox yesterday! I, of course, have selected a few of my other rainy date night delights to accompany the movie: the sweet sent of a rain candle, a cozy oversized sweater and a blanket to cuddle underneath. 

Now for either before or after the film, I included a few of our other favorite things. A wonderful dual chess/wine opener set (this thing would be AMAZING for an afternoon picnic), of course the bottle of vino to open and the incredible Mr. Davis as the soundtrack to accompany the entire evening. 


What do you have planned for the weekend ahead? Do you have a beloved rainy day must have??