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? 

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

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? 

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!!  

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!! 

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. 

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!! 

For Him

In honor of my mister celebrating his birthday this week, I have decided to dedicate a post to feature a few of his favorite things!

This amazing watch is totally him with its haunting honest inscription.


These are the perfect nod to his classically cool aesthetic.


This tailored shirt is perfect for a fun weekend date with his favorite girl!


For the warm Texas weather, a breezy summer straw hat is a must.  


A stylish bag is ideal for his stack of reading material or a travel chess set!


Lastly, what look is complete without his preferred drink in hand? 






Happy Birthday darling!! I hope it is full of all of your very favorite things!
xoxoxox 
H

American Beauty

One of my very favorite American Girls is making her fashion debut in Berlin this month and I am bubbling with excitement to announce the opening of her new store!

She was an American Girl, a pop-up retail and gallery space, is the brainchild of American designer Tara Tonini. The store is home to twenty designers and artists.

What brought this American girl to Germany you might ask? Well rock and roll of course!! “The store concept sprung from a daydream while listening to the Tom Petty song, American Girl. I realized we are all looking for adventure, a challenge and a kick in the ass. She was as American Girl was conceived,” said Tara. 

Of course that statement just leads me to believe I need to start doing a whole lot more daydreaming and sewing! Some of Tonini’s other projects include her sweet as pie line Tara to the T and the retro perfect Sky Girls. 

Be sure to stop by her blog or click here to like her facebook fan page and watch the journey unfold. I am already a fan and can't wait to see what the next step holds!!

Something Old/Something New: Audrey for Summer

One of my very favorite blogger posts are those that take old fashion style icons and reinvent their look using new trends. So I have decided to incorporate this beloved feature into my online existence.

It is only right to kick off my Something Old/Something New series with one of my personal style icons: Ms. Audrey Hepburn.

Menswear Shirt, Sandals, Sunglasses, Shorts and Vintage Bracelet 

I really love this casual spring/summer outfit! It is not one of the more traditional images you see of her but I find the mix of a men's top with the high-waisted shorts finished with a vintage touch totally irresistible!!  Ms. Hepburn you always seemed to always wear it just right. 

Sip and Sew: 1949 Halter

I had one of the best times in a long time this past weekend with just four girls and our sewing machines!

We had our first official Sip and Sew during which we did a little bit of sewing and a whole lot of gossiping. The circle is comprised of vintage loving girls, like yours truly, who are all set to build our own wardrobe!

Our inaugural meeting was lead by my amazing friend Vanessa who greeted us in style with yummy treats, the cutest 50's glasses for our Arbor Mist (V's favorite) and pre-cut patterns in name labeled envelopes! She is too stinking cute for her own good!

The project was for each gal to create a 1949 halter from a great vintage pattern that our lovely hostess provided. We each customized the pattern to fit our measurements, did a little cutting and then the sewing commenced. Between all of the chatting and re-dos, I am not sure how long it actually took to complete, but I did it!

Finished product. Not too bad if I say so myself. And the best part is that I went home afterwards and knocked another one out in less than an hour and a half!!

As for next month, the date is already selected and so is the pattern. I can't wait for another day with the gals!

Funky Finds

One of my very favorite past times is treasure hunting in vintage re-sale shoppes! Unfortunately, neither set of grandparents left me hoards of old time goodies so these stores serve as my lifeline for unique and special items from the generations past. 


Last weekend the mister and I went on an expedition of the vintage kind and found two AMAZING locations I wanted to share with you! 


Dolly Python has been called the "best vintage store in Dallas" by reviews on Yelp. And in my opinion this statement is not far from the truth. The hidden treasure is a little off the beaten path on Haskell Ave. in the east side of Dallas. It houses a ton of amazing vintage items and oddities. Including clothes, cameras and great 60's style furniture! If you are on this side of town or even relatively close I recommend making the trip!

Another note worthy stop on the hunt was to Gratitude Vintage. Let me start with a warning: This store is BUSTING AT THE SEAMS with goods so prepare yourself to dig for a find! With that being said, many of you are probably like me and the hunt makes the prize that much more valuable. The store is going through a owner change so they are offering huge discounts on tons of items and are willing to negotiate on everything! My suggestion is to head that way soon. 

Now it is your turn! If you have a favorite second hand store please share it below. I know I have a few followers that would enjoy hearing about another place they can spend a Saturday afternoon losing themselves for an hour or so!

Austin Bound

I am bubbling with anticipation and excitement about the weekend to come!! Me and the mister are packing up and heading south to AUSTIN!! It is only a few hours drive away, but this city moves at a completely different pace. The city is host to everyone from the crazy old hippies to the young hipsters and everything in between!

This weekend we are heading to the capital with a purpose; to attend an annual event called the Lonestar Round Up for the very first time.

For those of you who may not know, I am a lover of vintage fashion. 1950s fashion to be precise. I love the elegance, beauty and chic style that every woman seemed to have possessed during this time.

Photo by: John French

The Round Up is a celebration of this era. There will be three days of cars, clothes and music. If you can't make it, don't worry. I will be taking lots of pics and sharing them as we enjoy!!

What are you doing this weekend? I would love to hear about your exciting adventures!!

Rain drops keep falling on my head

I find that rain always puts me in a wonderfully mellow kind of mood. The kind of mood that when paired with the sound track of Billie and an evening of cuddling can be unlike any other!

The drizzle also gives me the perfect excuse to wear one of my favorite accessories..... rain boots!! What is your favorite rain day moment? What do you love to wear in stormy weather??

Items I love: boots, pants, shirt, umbrella and head scarf

I also love this article about how to wear your rain boots!!