Ms. Thrify...

To say that the economy is in the pooper would be quite the understatement. For goodness sake, McCain just "suspended" his campaign to "go to Washington and deal with the economic crisis" (between choosing Palin as a VP candidate and this recent stunt--I'm beginning to think he views the American people as idiots...some are, but that's neither here nor there). Oh well, politics aside for a moment, the fact of the matter is that an economic downturn can have quite a negative affect on a fashionista's wallet and subsequent wardrobe.

Enter, The Salvation Army. Crashing stock market or not, 2nd hand stores are great places to find unique pieces at a steal. Me and the boyfriend headed over to our local SA to poke around and see what we could find.

Mildly impressed with the selection--have seen better. Found this blazer:

Had cool buttons:

Thought it might be cute with skinnies, booties, men's white button down. Think Charlize Theron at Fashion Rocks 2008:

Really like this look--and the best part is its really easy fashion. Most of you probably already have a white shirt, blazer and black heels in your closet--all you need to add is a pair of black skinny jeans to complete. Add some hot accessories, like her wonderful "statement necklace,"to add some oomf : )

Statement necklaces are huge right now. With the "thrown together" trend taking over this season (check out Bazaar, September issue for an article on the subject), bold necklaces are a great way to make sure your look says, "effortless" rather than "sloppy." I really like these necklaces as well--

Anthropologie: $48 Anthropologie: $228

Anthropologie: $42

Forever 21: $5.80

Forever 21: $4.80

Spotted another trend at SA that I'm not so sure about. Some trends are smart and I feel like others come out to test our intelligence. For example, peep-toe booties are smart. However, thigh-boots were not. Make sense? So, I am still contemplating which category the new "plaid trend" falls into. Yes, I know...LC has been spotted all over town in it:

But I'm still not sure. Anyway, unintelligent or not, it made me notice this number:

Passed on it in the end...just feels Farmer John. Uninteresting. Blah.

I actually said pass on everything--decided to keep my hard-earned $$ in my pocket (did I mention the economy sucks?). Boyfriend fared better however, found this cool Steve Nash jersey:

Which he promptly put on upon leaving the store:

Love that guy.

Happy Hump Day,

acceptingwhoiamnot

My Fair Lady

I am here to debunk the myth that those who love Gucci studded boots and Chanel charm bracelets do not also love to pet pigs, feed goats and sample the local fare at the fair. The LA County Fair has become something of a tradition for my boyfriend and I...we have gone for the past 3 years and I love it! I am happy to report that this year did not disappoint. There were furry animals, creepy bugs, fried Twinkies, Mexican wrestlers, belly dancers and of course lots of interesting outfits.

Our first stop is always the animal barn. I love animals. All shapes and sizes. If they have fur and four legs--I'm in. Now, less you think I completely forgot the premise of this blog during my photo journaling, allow me to tie all of this back to pondering fashion.

There were cows and sheep: looking lovely in Chanel black and white

And horses flaunting the oh-so-fashionable Heidi Klum bang:

And of course, the snakes were showcasing their of-the-moment skin:

The animals were definitely looking fantastic--unfortunately, I cannot say the same about the people...take a look at some of the unfortunate ensembles I spotted.

Ok--before you denounce me as heartless and cruel, please note that the next two women are not being featured for their weight. They are being featured for the VERY poor way they chose to highlight their figures.

1. Buy clothes that fit! Both of these women's jeans look like they are cutting off their circulation. The bulges created by wearing clothing that is too small simply makes you look bigger

2. Wear fabrics that flow comfortably over your figure--rather than grab onto it for dear life!

When you are getting dressed--think about your best feature and try to play it up with everything you wear. At the same time, keep those troubled spots in mind as well--and play them down as much as possible. Since both of these women tend to be thicker in the mid section, they should aim for tops and dresses with an empire waist that highlights their wonderful cleavage but camouflages their larger tummies.

Lengths of shirts should stay at the hip to streamline the look from top to bottom--always remember, eyes gravitate to a smooth line...not a lumpy one. So if your body tends to carry weight in one section or another, think of ways to balance your look to give the illusion of proportion.

Ok, on to my next model. Just one thing to say on this one.

Fanny Packs: (1980-1990) R.I.P.

I can't quite figure out what was going on here:

I think I see where she was going with this--boots and dress, but this is all wrong.

First off are the clear bra straps. I don't know who invented these but I would like to take all of the clear plastic bra straps in the world and tie the inventor up in them--they're horrible! Do people honestly think that because the bra strap is clear, we can't see it?!? Do they not realize that shiny plastic protruding from strapless and (heaven have mercy) halter tops looks TACKY!?!? Please, do the world and yourself a favor and invest in a strapless bra. One that lifts and separates preferably.

And the boots--I am at a loss for words. All I can say is that if they look like you bought them at an army surplus store (or if you actually did buy them at an army surplus store) leave them for hunting and paintballing.

Next is the pattern, and once again, size of this dress. If you have a ba-dunk-a-dunk (as I do) do NOT draw attention to it by stretching patterned polyester across it. Never a good idea. This women is obviously smaller on top than on bottom--so her main crime (other than the boots and bra straps) is a dress that clings from top to bottom. She is basically screaming to the world, "look at how un-proportioned I am!"

A better choice would have been an A-lined number that accentuates the top half and gives some forgiving coverage to the bottom half. Like this woman:

well done!

The last of the fashion no-no's is this woman:

I get it. Fair..cowboys...cowboy boots and hat. I love cowboy boots--have two pair. Wear them every winter...WITH JEANS. Cowboy boots and mini skirts went out 2 seasons ago and cowboy boots with dressy calf-length skirts was never in.

I will even allow the hat on this one on the grounds that she was getting into the spirit of the fair--but the skirt and boots is a no go. This outfit would have 100% worked if she would have pulled on a great fitting boot-cut jean in a dark wash...OVER the boots, not tucked in them (oh the horror!).

Well, those are my fashion notes from the fair. Sorry, I've been sluggish on the posts--I'll try to be better this week. In closing, I leave you with my two favorite memories from this year's LA County Fair. A belly dancing performance and a Mexican wrestling match.

Living for the weekend,

acceptingwhoiamnot

Must Have's for fall...

Flipped through Bazzar last night--wanting everything that is out for fall right now. Not sure if the fashion is simply superb this season, or if I'm just noticing it because this is the first year I've actually had $$$ to shop with. Ha!

I just finished my MBA in January so prior to this year, I had been living the sad existence of a poor college student with more bills than money. However, an 8 1/2 x 11 piece of paper can really change things--and this year, I'm buying everything from peep-toe booties to leather (ok pleather) leggings. I must admit though--even when I couldn't afford the trends, I was still drooling over them, and this year does seem to be a step above the rest. Take a look at my "Must Have's" for Fall 2008...

Pleather Leggings
Love this look. Slimming, sexy, a nod to the 80's without going crazy in a cone bra. Can be glammed out with with a pair of gladiator heels, or paired with a tunic and ballet flats for a bit more of a "real-world"take....

Peep-toe Booties

I could wear these things from work to evening to playing soccer...ok maybe that last part was a bit over the top, but honestly I LOVE them! And, believe it or not they're practical! Yes the heel is sky high, but because of the boot structure and open toe, your feet are supported and your toes don't get crushed--genius! Wear them with jeans, leggings, skirts, dresses--basically anything already in your closet that needs a bit of a pick-me-up. Think of them as the salt of your wardrobe ; )

The Structured Handbag
My boyfriend should know that I have feelings for another...and that "another" is this Fendi bag--yikes it's hot! While my budget may not permit for this little beauty--it has some key elements that can easily translate into a more wallet-friendly counterpart.

1. Lots of hardware

2. Snake skin (or snake embossed leather if your planning on retiring some day...as I am)

3. Great shape--classic, ladylike...think, "ladies who lunch"

Gladiator Heels

You probably have the flat bo-ho version of these in your closet from summer...this is not that shoe. These heels scream SEXY from a mile away. There are lots of fun colors to choose from but I'm going with black--reinforces the whole "rocker-chic" theme this fall. Will look awesome with those pleather leggings mentioned earlier and can even be paired with black opaque tights and a skirt on colder days. Go for at least a 4 inch heel on these--your feet might hate you, but your legs will be saying, "Dang, I look good!"

High Waist Skirts
Thank the Lord...butt cracks have gone back in their pants!! High waists are in and I love them in skirts, both pencil and A-line like this one pictured on Jennifer Garner. Note that shirts must be tucked in with this look--or what's the point? You could really go with anything from a gorgeous blouse like Mrs. Affleck's down to a t-shirt and still look great. The skirt pulls the look together and works as the focal point of the ensemble. Also note the modern length of skirts this season--right above the knee..not below. Shows those lovely gams!

The Rolled Jean
I know. This is a controversial subject--feel free to voice your opinion in the comments section. However, I love them, and wear them. To me, they look easy and laid back--no fuss. And, they draw attention to the ankles and almost everyone has great ankles. I've worn them with t-strap heels as well as gladiator ankle wrap flat sandals and I loved them both ways. Give them a whirl--I suggest a straight-leg jean, 1-2 sizes bigger than you normally wear. Fold and an cuff the hem and pair with a loose button-down or a soft slouchy t-shirt.
Also, make sure your jewelry and handbag are a bit on the dressier side to offset the laid back nature of this look...

Thus far, my wardrobe is sitting pretty for a 70 degree Southern California winter. I still need to get on the gladiator heels and the high waist skirt. But alas, my rent must come before perfectly designed chaussures...what are some hot finds you've snagged for this season?

talk soon,
acceptingwhoiamnot

Back to the Basics.

So, one of my lovely work buddies (who shall remain anonymous on this fancy thing called "the world wide web") made quite the observation about my blog last night (my first reader! bless her dear soul). She said, "it's really about getting back to the basics..." Bingo!! Sure is...and the funny thing, I'm really all about the basics in life and in my wardrobe--Don't you love it when things come full circle?

I got my fashion sense from my mother--she has everything it takes to be a model and was one before I was born. Thin, tall, beautiful--clothes look amazing on her. However, the most valuable thing she ever taught me about fashion, is to keep it simple. Her closet is pregnant with high-end designers. You name it, the woman has it:

Chanel


Dolce & Gabbanna

Derek Lam

Diane von Furstenberg

Narciso Rodriguez

Roberto Cavalli

Yohji Yamamoto

I could go on, but the list would take up today's entire post. The point is, even in couture--she wears the clothes, not the other way around. She (and therefore I) live by three important rules:

1. Shape

2. Color

3. Detail

Find out what your signature 1 and 2 are, add in a sprinkle of number 3. That's really all you need to know.

Do I love trends? Of course, who doesn't? However, I am always careful to ensure that whatever I put on showcases me. And my goodness, how can clothes showcase you when they're screaming so loud, that they drowned you out?

Fashion is one of the few areas of life where you get to be the boss. So don't fall into that horrible trap of letting fashion boss you! Some of my favorite fashion dictators (other than ma mère)?

Sarah Jessica Parker: Dear heavens I want this outfit--ok I want everything she owns.

So, why it works:

1. over sized pant + high waist= lovely, lovely, lovely on all shapes!

2. Cropped pant to show off this season's ridiculously cool, sexy, stop-your-heart awesome shoes...which leads to number 3

3. Her shoes are F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C

4. Love how she tucks the t-shirt, keeping it relevant--showing her tiny waist

Note--you could take this same concept to evening in a snap! Change the pants to black, trade the t-shirt for a silk sleeveless black tank, ditch the coat and upgrade the newspaper for a gun-metal metallic clutch. Done.

Kate Hudson: Ok bottom line--she bugs me. And I personally think she needs to get to cutting her kid's hair sooner than later. And I don't condone the thong bikini. Ever. But that aside--she does have an easy-breezy "I always look effortlessly wonderful" thing going on. So, for that, she makes my list.

Why this works:

1. The color for fall: grey. nailed it.

2. The fit of her sweater says, "I am sexy and I don't even have to try." Loose, wide neck line, hits at hip.

Note: Don't be afraid to go up a size in tops. Even if you don't need to--a looser fit can sometimes give a piece a bit more laid back ease.

3. Her boots--a little slouchy--worn in, stacked heel. Just love them.

Cate Blanchette: Always perfect. The picture of classic elegance. And that is why I love her.

Why this works:

1. Why wouldn't it work? Fantastic color, metallics are huge right now, a little retro with the short sleeves and button front, effortlessly chic.

Note: Take a look at her accessories. Notice anything? She barely has any on. With a dress this dramatic and light reflective? Lay off the super glittery bling bling--the dress is enough.

So--like, "co-worker" so smartly noticed--this is about the basics. In life and in fashion. Sloughing off the excess and becoming comfortable with what's underneath.

In the weeks to come, I promise to chain my camera to my wrist and feature real outfits out there. Why they work, why they don't...how to make them work if they don't already. Stay tuned--and leave love. Fashion should always cause conversation, so join mine. Who are your style icons?

Almost Friday,

acceptingwhoiamnot

The start of something so good....

My blog, yes. Fall, totally. Self expression--definitely. This is the start of many things--all of which I am equally thrilled about. Those who know me best, know that a) I adore fashion b) I subsequently love shopping and c) I am a writer at heart. Therefore, a fashion blog was really a no-brainer ; ) Have you ever noticed that the rat race most of us are running in is really designed to drain us of all creativity and the things we really love? Think about it--how many of us are still entertaining the things that brought us joy as children? No, I'm not talking about Barbie and mud pies (however fun they might have been), I'm talking about make-believe and dreaming and career aspirations that had nothing to do with a corporate ladder. About wearing a Cinderella costume in the middle of April because it wasn't about what people thought, it was about how it made you feel. I'm talking about the days when you were a little more selfish and cared about your thoughts, your feelings and what you wanted--So, it is my desire to reconnect with what i love and who I am that has driven me back to the very essence of these things, a pen and paper--or a keyboard and screen, you get the picture. I hope this is a place where we can all discover a bit more about who we are, what we say through what we wear and who we want to be when we slip into that Diane von Furstenberg dress or march out of the house in those Christian Louboutin peep toes or sling that Chanel tote confidently over one shoulder. If life is a stage than these are our costumes--designed, sewn and purchased with a character in mind. In Fashion Ponderings, I challenge you (and myself) to discover who you are, who you are not and who you are aspiring to be.

Happy Pondering,

acceptingwhoiamnot