Happy New Year!

So we have reached the end of 2011. What say you? Good? Bad? Meh? Good, bad, or indifferent, in about 12 hours it will all be over. 2011, that is. Here is what I resolve to do in the new year:

1. Become fully financially independent. I'll be honest, I'm not entirely sure what financial independence means. But if it means walking into a restaurant and knowing that your card isn't going to be declined when you go to pay, sign me up! I won't be making this journey alone. I will have the ladies (and gents) of LearnVest to help me along. If, like me, you would describe yourself as financially illiterate, sign up for LearnVest's daily emails and free(!) financial bootcamps. It just may be the encouragement you need to keep it in your purse. Your plastic, that is!


2. Read at least one new book per month. I have decided to start with The Road by Cormac McCarthy. Note: I have built in a Hunger Games hiatus for the week of March 23, 2012. During the week of March 23rd, I am totally permitted to stop everything and (re)immerse myself in the world of jabberjays and Capitol mutts.

3. Eat (slightly) less cheese than I currently eat right now. I may be approaching that age when my cholesterol may actually matter. Maybe.

4. Get my cholesterol checked. This will determine just how much cheese I will have to eliminate from my diet.

Whether your new year's resolutions include losing those last 5 (or 10 or 15, or whatever) pounds, making an appointment to see your doctor, getting to the gym regularly, calling your grandparents more often, or learning a new language, best of luck to you! If you are out tonight, please make sure you have a designated driver or the number for at least one cab company programmed into your cell phone. If you are partying in the LA area, The Auto Club of Southern California offers free "tipsy tow" services to members and non-members alike. Tipsy tow will not only provide you with a safe ride home, but they will also tow your car anywhere within 7 miles of the point of pick-up. To contact AAA Tipsy Tow, call 1-800-400-4222.

I had to think and think and think some more to come up with a popular song that includes some reference to NYE. This is what I came up with. Hopefully your evening is more fun than this guy's was. And despite what One Republic and Timbaland say, it's never too late to Apologize. Happy New Year, friends!

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Let it Whip by Dazz Band

Is there anything better than walking into a store to get your shop on and hearing your jam blaring over the speakers? I don't think so. I happened to experience this special kind of euphoria last week while doing some last minute Christmas shopping. I'll give you three guesses as to what song was playing. Congrats on surviving Christmas, friends. Let it whip!

p.s. Does this song remind anyone else of that very special episode of Felicity where Noel found out his girlfriend (played by Road Trip's Amy Smart) was pregnant and sought counsel from everyone's favorite bad boy with a poet's soul, Ben? And Ben realized that he was in love with Felicity (again), but she had started seeing that guy with the weird hair, Greg? And then they all came together to paint Noel and Elena's apartment to this song?

Man, that was a good show. I actually went as far as to YouTube that video so that I could post it here and drown you all in my early 2000s television nostalgia. But guess what? The YouTubed Felicity painting party video does not contain that song. I'm guessing that the CW or whoever did not obtain the rights to put "Let it Whip" in the DVD version of the show. That's just my guess because I pulled out my personal VHS collection of Felicity episodes that I taped back in the day and confirmed that "Let it Whip" was, in fact, the song Ben's quiche-making roommate, Sean, put on at the painting party. Anyone else out there miss the adventures of Felicity and her amazing head of hair? Pin It

The Stylish Women of Murder House

American Horror Story is proof positive that great style is not limited to the living. In honor of tonight's season finale, here's a look at some of the stylish women of Murder House:

Clockwise from left:

Nora Montgomery: Prohibition chic. The original first lady of Murder House is destined for all eternity to sport 1920's waves and red lipstick. Sporting a retro beaded or flapper-esque dress this holiday season? Look to Nora's polished face-framing waves and bold lip for some stylespiration (Style + inspiration =stylespiration. Cute, no? No? Oh well).

Violet Harmon: Smells Like Teen Spirit. Murder House's favorite daughter definitely has a Kurt Cobainy-Angela Chasey-grunge thing going on. If you are single-handedly trying to bring back the flowered baby doll dresses and combat boots, look to Violet for some seriously angsty style cues. Keep the hair long, loose, unstyled, and just a little bit dirty. If you are truly a grunge princess, you probably have not showered in several days so this won't be a problem. If you are a grunge poser, fake second-day hair with dry shampoo. I love this one, but there are also some great drugstore versions available if you are not interested in making the $21 investment. 

Moira and . . . Moira: The (literally) two-faced housekeeper of Murder House is all red hair and porcelain skin. Moira keeps her make-up simple and dewy with a cat eye and highlighted cheekbone. And let's be honest here, the rest is the outfit. 

The Black Dahlia: Ever wonder what happened to the Black Dahlia? The writers of American Horror Story don't. Murder House's most famous resident looks just as you pictured her. Especially if you pictured her looking a lot like Mena Suvari. Want to copy the Black Dahlia's signature style? That's a little morbid, but I ain't mad at 'cha. Start by spraying your hair with hair spray. Curl small sections of hair around small or medium-sized electric rollers and coat with a second spritz of hair spray. Let the rollers set while you do your make-up. Make-up should consist of a clean, lined eye and a defined red lip. Skip the blush. Skip the bronzer. The lips are center stage here. Gently remove the rollers and spray with, yes, a third coat of hair spray. I love, love, love this one. Carefully break up the curls and pin back the sides of the hair with bobby pins. Finish by pinning the flower of your choice behind one ear.
Vivien Harmon: The woman of Murder House. Ben's anguished wife has been holding it down (minus that little stint in the mental institution, of course) with long, flowing waves and neutral make-up. Want to copy Viv's signature coif? Separate your hair into three sections--like tiers on a cake. Comb out each section and spray with hairspray. Wrap 1" sections around a large-barreled curling iron and hold for 15 seconds. Open the clamp of the curling iron and pull the curling iron straight down, being careful not to disturb or pull on the wave. Let the curl cool as you continue curling pieces around your head. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. When you get up to the sections around your face, wrap the hair around the curling iron so that the curls are directed away from your face. Finish with another light spritz of hair spray before breaking up the curls with your fingers.     

Hayden: If you are a crazy chick, or you just want to look like one, look no farther than Ben's psychotic mistress for beauty tips. Hayden is all about the serious raccoon eye. If your crazy stare is what brings all the boys to the yard, circle your peepers several times with a thick black kohl pencil like this one (in Oil Slick for shimmer or Zero for matte) and let everything else go. Bonus points for the soft, romantic hair. Anything that keeps them guessing about just how coocoo for Cocoa Puffs you really are.

Spend the night with the women of Murder House tonight at 10 p.m., when the season one finale of American Horror Story premieres on FX. What say you, friends? Have you been tuning in to this creep show? Any theories as to how the first season will end? 

Pin It

Last Minute Christmas: 20 for $25 or Less

Because it isn't really Christmas unless there is a full family brawl, we decided long ago to swap the whole "joy of giving" thing for a little shouting match we like to call "white elephant." Rules are changed and broken, deals are brokered, alliances are formed. Welcome to a Very Riley Christmas. If you happen to find that you are still in need of a special stocking stuffer, a gift for your secretary, or a white elephant gift valued at $25 or less, these recommendations are for you. Ho ho ho.

1. Bon Iver-For Emma, For Ever Ago, Urban Outfitters, $14.98 

2. Phd Ski Light Socks by Smart Wool, Athleta, $19.00 

3. Nordstrom Cashmere Blend Fingerless Gloves, Nordstrom, $24.90

4. The Hunger Games Juniors Tribute Spray T-Shirt, Amazon, $22.00

5. Awkward Family Pet Photos, Urban Outfitters, $15.00

6. Philosophy Hope in a Jar Ornament, Sephora, $15.00

7. Frozen Waves Earrings, Anthropologie, $19.95

8. Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Pocket, Athleta, $20.00

9. Steve Madden Kattiie Slipper, Piperlime, $24.99

10. Milk Bottle Measuring Cups, Anthropologie, $24.00

11. Sunflower Pitcher, Anthropologie, $14.95

12. Josie Maran Organic Argan Oil, 0.5 oz, Sephora, $14.00

13. Kate Spade 2012 Wall Calendar, Kate Spade, $20.00

14. Mustache Shaped Flask, Urban Outfitters, $18.00

15. Amphipod Xinglet Reflective Vest, Athleta, $25.00

16. Jonathan Adler Giraffe Ornament, Nordstrom, $24.00

17. Plan an Adventure Blackberry Pouch, Kate Spade, $25.00

18. The Big Lebowski Tee, Urban Outfitters, $24.00

19. The North Face "Bones" Microfleece Beanie, Nordstrom, $20.00

20. Tinley Road Hammered Gold Stud Earring, Piperlime, $16.00

Pin It

What I'm Running to: Do They Know it's Christmas 1984 by Band Aid

When I think of Christmas, I think of Boy George. What? You don't? Well, you will now. Behold the original Band Aid. Never before was a better group of shoulder-padded blazers assembled, and never would there be again. Enjoy. But Band Aid wasn't done. Band Aid II recorded Do They Know it's Christmas in 1989, with an extra side of cheese. Oh, hi, Kylie Minogue. Then along came Band Aid 20 in 2004. Now with Chris Martin! And rap!  And finally, because no popular music is immune from the Glee treatment . . . Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, friends! Pin It

The Hunger Games Takes On: Legos?

I'll admit it. I'm just a slave to the marketing machine that is Lionsgate's promotion of  the upcoming film for The Hunger Games. This new look at The Hunger Games trailer, however, comes from a YouTuber named CarCrashcorp. Meet Lego Katniss, Lego Prim, Lego Gale, and Lego Peeta. What's with the sinister smile, Lego Peeta?
p.s. You can find the real trailer for Liongate's Hunger Games here. Pin It

What She Wore To Court: Lindsay Lohan

Finally a bit of good news for LiLo. Not only did she complete her required 12 shifts at the LA County Morgue and her required 5 psychotherapy sessions this month, but she actually dressed appropriately for her December 14th court appearance! Brava, LiLo! Here is what she wore, and what I thought about it:

1. When more is too much: the trouble with Lindsay's hair. My biggest criticism of Lindsay's court look pertains to her low, platinum pony. It's a mistake every bottle blonde, myself included, has made: taking it blonderexic. Here's how it happens, you go in for a few highlights. You know, something subtle and natural. When you're back in your colorist's chair 6 weeks later, you hear yourself tell her "you know, let's just go a little bit lighter . . ." 6 weeks later you're saying "let's turn it up, summer's right around the corner!" And the next thing you know, you are a damaged, washed out, blonderexic mess. Lindsay's hair here is clearly damaged, and worse, it doesn't go with her skin tone. It's too blonde. Return to red, Lindsay! It's nice over here! 

2. Lindsay kept her jewelry simple with a delicate pendant necklace. I love a pendant for everyday because it affords an opportunity to purchase a signature piece that murmurs something about who you are. I fully believe that your daytime jewelry, like your fragrance, should whisper, not scream. Score one for Lindsay. Bonus points for not allegedly stealing a necklace to wear to her court appearance.

3. Lindsay's loose cardy is a giant step up from this business, for sure. A courthouse is not the place to let it all hang out. That said, I think that Lindsay could have gone a bit more tailored on top to account for the looseness of the trousers. The key to pulling almost any outfit together is balance: a loose bottom is balanced by a more fitted top. A form-fitting top is balanced by a loose, flowing bottom. I also would have liked to have seen a color on top. I would have paired her pleated trousers with this sweater, but as with her supervised probation, it is nice to see our little Mean Girl making progress.    

4. So you probably hate Lindsay's pants, but I'll be honest, I ain't mad at them. I think that if she had better balanced the proportion on top, the pants wouldn't look as borderline sloppy as they do in this photo. As a side note, if you are little hippy, you are probably thinking that you need to stay away from pants like Lindsay's. The opposite is actually true. The pants create a natural curve without clinging to your curves. If you are thigh heavy, as I am, the generous hip and thigh cut of these pants actually pull the eye away from that area and direct it down the leg. 

5. Girl, you know I love a pointy-toed heel. Guess what? I love these ones too. 

6.  The call of the wild: if you feel so compelled to pop an animal print in court, your accessories are a completely appropriate place to do it. A leopard print bag, belt, or shoes is all style without the Snookie. Note: a leopard print bag, belt, and shoes is a little "Jerseylicious." Looking for a great leopard print bag? I lurrrrvvvee this one.

As I side note, I do take some issue with Lindsay's attorney's attire. When I think chic attorney, I think Shawn Chapman Holley. If you happen to be an attorney looking for professional style inspiration, I wouldn't hate you for following in Shawn's fashion footsteps. I would, however, recommend that you not do this: 

Photo courtesy of am New York

Whether your hearing is 5 minutes or 5 hours long, I don't believe that going sleeveless in court is ever appropriate. Had Shawn Holley thrown a cardigan (I would have topped this sweater with a little red cardy, but that's just me) or a blazer over the top of her black and white sleeveless top, I would have been all over it. Not every hearing requires the full Chanel suit treatment, but I do believe (and this may be old fashioned,  but I don't care) that if you are appearing before a judge, your shoulders should be covered. Also, girl, it was not that warm here on Wednesday. You could have worn a sweater. Just sayin. 

Pin It

Challenges

I'm pretty sure this means that once I get rid of my current Words with Friends letters which consist of a Q, a J, an X, a K, and three Os, that I am going to end up with nothing but vowels. 

Pin It

First Look at "Rock of Ages:" Tom Cruise's Best Performance Since "Legend?"

Girl, you know I love cheese, and the new trailer for Rock of Ages definitely lays it on thick. Like nacho cheese thick. I'm not going to lie, it had me at "Sister Christian." Take a look. Could this be Tom Cruise's comeback from Crazytown?

Ok, probably not. But tell me that Cruise's Rock of Ages appearance is not reminiscent of his character in the classic film about unicorn killing, Legend? That alone may be reason to get me to the theater. Julianne Hough be damned! Pin It

Faux Fur for the Fur Fearing

Socks and sandals. North Face jackets and shorts. This is the fashion equivalent of peanut butter and jelly to my friends from the Pacific Northwest. Lest this sound judgey, please remember for a second, friends, all of the times you made fun of my pointy-toed stilettos and massive statement necklaces. Bygones. However, of all the PNW fashion trends that I found perplexing (really, if it is cold enough to require a giant ski jacket, it is also cold enough to require pants. Just sayin.), the most elusive was the puffy vest. After seven years, the puffy vest continues to defy all fashion logic for me. And I even purchased a puffy vest and wore it once. I'm still confused.

I had all but eschewed all vests for good when I stumbled upon the SoCal version of the puffy vest while on my weekly to the TJ Maxx: the faux fur vest. Suddenly, I felt that stirring in my chest that told me I had happened upon a game changer. As with most life changing discoveries, this one was met with some uncertainty. Could I really pull off a faux fur vest? I instantly flashed back to a moment this summer when a couple of sales girls at the Nordstrom Rack played on all of my unrealized Cochella dreams and convinced me to purchase a (rather expensive) black leather fanny pack with silver studs. And I don't even like silver accents on black leather! Luckily, my temporary insanity lapsed and I was able to successfully return that little fashion snafu. Bygones. Was I on the verge of making a similar mistake? Rather than give in to my faux fur insecurities, I decided to channel my inner Fonda and consult my inspiration board. I am showing you what I have marked for identification purposes as Kami's Exhibit 1: Jane Fonda circa Klute.   

Despite her character's profession, which, if you have not seen the film, is the world's oldest profession, Fonda looks oddly refined. Therein lies the lesson. Keep the overall look polished, and you can get away with almost anything! Behold, three ways to gloss up the Cali version of the puffy vest:  

1. Faux Fur Vest, H&M, $14.95.

2. Mossimo Women's Tissue Turtleneck Top, Target, $8.00.

3. Navy Lightweight Wool Skirt, Banana Republic, $79.50.

4. Kate Spade New York Deb Wedges, Zappos, $155.99.

1. Faux Fur Vest, H&M, $14.95.

2. Halogen Tie Neck Blouse, Nordstrom, $78.00.

3. Braided Trim Trouser Jeans, Old Navy, $39.94.

4. Michael Michael Kors Harlow Sandal, Zappos, $69.99

1. Faux Fur Vest, H&M, $14.95.

2. Ya Los Angeles Chiffon Maxi, Piperlime, $49.97.

3. ASOS FOUND Leather Toe Post Plait Flat Sandal, Asos, $27.27.

4. Foley and Corinna Mid City Tote, Amazon, $395.00.

And with that, I rest. What do you think, Oregon friends? Have I persuaded you to abandon your puffy vests for the fuzzier version? Or are you more convinced than ever that quilting is queen? 

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays by NSYNC

Remember when Justin Timberlake was a bleached blond curly top and everyone thought that Lance Bass was straight (I was pretty sure that old Lance gave me the once over at an NSYNC concert in 1999, but I guess I got that one wrong. Oops)? 13 years may have passed, but I still love everything about this song. In fact, if I hear it playing in Sephora, I am 68% more likely to spend more money on skincare products than I would if this song was not playing. It's a scientific fact. Enjoy this video. I'm pretty sure NSYNC spent all of 15 minutes making it. Oh, and rest in peace, Gary Coleman.     Pin It

The Hunger Games Takes On: Haute Couture?

Okay, so I know that y'all are a little Hunger Gamesed out. But this is my blog, and I do what I want. And this was a little too cool not to share. If you have not yet drank the Hunger Games kool-aid, here's why you should: no matter what you are into, The Hunger Games got you. Are you into futuristic thrillers? The Hunger Games got you. Are you crazy into girl power plot lines? The Hunger Games got you. Are you into graphic violence? Guess what? The Hunger Games got you. Are you into fashion? Yep. The Hunger Games got you there too.

If you are unfamiliar with the plot because you refuse to take my advice and read the books, here is a  little context for you: our brave heroine, Katniss, is selected to compete in the 74th Annual Hunger Games, which is kind of like a super cracked-out version of Survivor. Only instead of getting voted off the island, you die. Those are the only rules, really. Win or die. The Hunger Games are televised and broadcast to every citizen of the futuristic society of Panem. Have I lost you? Here is the high fashion connection: before Katniss enters the Games, she undergoes the ultimate reality TV makeover in the hopes of winning sponsorship while she is in the arena. If Katniss can get enough sponsors, she can receive "gifts" in the arena that might save her life. Without sponsors, she's as good as dead. The stakes are high, so she has to look hot. Literally.

In anticipation of the film, InStyle Magazine asked several major designers with some serious runway cred to design Katniss' oh-so-memorable opening ceremony outfit based (very loosely in some cases) on this passage from the novel:

“I am dressed in what will either be the most sensational or the deadliest costume in the opening ceremonies. I’m in a simple black unitard that covers me from ankle to neck. Shiny leather boots lace up to my knees. But it’s the fluttering cape made of streams of orange, yellow, and red and the matching headpiece that define this costume. Cinna plans to light them on fire just before our chariot rolls into the streets.” The Hunger Games, Chapter 5.

Katniss' outfit is so spectacular that it earns her the moniker "Girl On Fire." Here are some of my favorite designer interpretations:

Charlotte Ronson 

Nicole Miller 

Rachel Roy 

TIBI

Check out all of the designer interpretations here. Which designs were your favorites? And is it March 23rd yet?

Pin It

Time Waster Wednesdays: Stockholm Street Style

I have never wanted to visit Sweden. When I thought of Sweden, I thought of two things: 1) Stockholm Syndrome, and 2) cold. I am a fan of neither. I am, however, a fan of Ikea. And Swedish Fish. But that is neither here nor there. Then I discovered Stockholm Street Style and developed an undeniable urge to make a style pilgrimage to the Scandinavian Peninsula. While the unemployed may not be able to hop a plane to the land of the Swedish meatball and the perfect understated, minimalist style, anyone with an Internet connection can peruse the streets of Stockholm for a little dose of style inspiration. Get a taste of Stockholm Street Style below or click here:

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Make This Go On Forever by Snow Patrol

Fun fact: sometimes when I'm running, I like to pretend that I'm one of those angsty teenagers you see in the movies. You know what I'm talking about, right? When you reach that moment in the film where everything starts to come crashing down on our little heroine and she takes off running. At night. In a rainstorm. With an internal black and white montage to illustrate her struggle (man, I love a good montage!). Then the rain stops. Our protagonist stops running and realizes that she already has everything she needs to fix her life. She just needs to face her fears and put the wheels in motion. Yeah, sometimes I like to pretend that's me. This song provides the perfect soundtrack for an angsty, rainy run. Even if that angsty run is more like a slow jog in the 24 Hour Fitness.

Funner Fact: in searching for a good YouTube video of this song, I learned that this is a very popular song for emo fan videos. Among my favorites are the videos for The X-Files, Grey's Anatomy, and my personal favorite, Firefly's Mal and Inara. 

Funnest Fact: as an angsty tween, I went to not one, but two X-Files conventions. I'm pretty sure that I even met Agent Scully at one of them. No, I did not dress up. Although, this is only because they did not make trench coats small enough for my 4'11" frame. Thank goodness for small miracles. Of course, I would never do something that overtly nerdy now. Unless, of course, someone created a Hunger Games convention, in which case I would be the first in line dressed up as Katniss. Or as a tracker jacker. 

Press play. Have a great week friends! 

Pin It

Dream.

So I'm pretty sure this means that one day, when I least expect it, I will wake up as Oprah. 

Pin It

I Heart IFB

First Appearances is now part of the Independent Fashion Blogger Network!

Pin It

Time Waster Wednesdays: The Sartorialist

The Sartorialist is photographer/fashion blogger Scott Shuman. According to his biography, he began The Sartorialist "with the idea of creating a two-way dialogue about the world of fashion and its relationship to daily life." Need some style inspiration? Wonder what women are wearing in Milan today? Check out The Sartorialist by clicking here.

Note: While I would love to show you some of Scott Shuman's work here to whet your appetite, his copyright statement requires that I obtain permission to do so. I do not currently have such permission, so check out The Sartorialist here or by visiting www.thesartorialist.com. 

Pin It

Anatomy of a Perfect Handbag: J. Crew Brompton Hobo

It's no big secret that I have a bit of a handbag obsession. I have met very few handbags that I did not like. But I have long wondered, what makes the perfect handbag? A perfect handbag will transcend time and place, take a thrashing, and somehow emerge on the other side looking better than when you bought it. The perfect handbag will also not force you to choose between paying your rent and purse nirvana. Then one day, seemingly out of nowhere, the answer to the eternal perfect handbag question came to me from an unlikely source: J. Crew.

If you are looking to upgrade your look, a great handbag is the easiest (and the least painful, in my opinion) way to do it. Did you eat too much stuffing at Thanksgiving? Haven't been to the gym in a month? A handbag don't judge. 

Here is the J. Crew Brompton Hobo break down:

1. The perfect handbag has shoulder straps that are long enough to wear over the shoulder (this is called "handle drop" in handbag lingo). The Brompton hobo has a 5 1/2" handle drop. The loose structure of this bag allows the straps to slide easily over the shoulder. If you are looking at a bag with more structure, look for a handle drop of 6-7" to allow for easy shoulder wear. 

2. The perfect handbag has options. A removable shoulder/crossbody straps allows for hands-free wear: perfect for marathon shopping excursions or world-class baby wrangling. 

3. The perfect handbag is durable. The most durable of the handbag fabrics is thick, textured leather. Smooth leather will show every scratch or bump. Textured or pebbled leather takes life's bumps and scrapes in stride. Look for a cotton interior lining to increase longevity. Want a bag that is truly timeless? Fight the urge to purchase something covered in logos. Most of the time, a logoed bag is made of some kind of treated canvas or cloth. Neither wears as well as leather, yet the price point for nearly every designer logo bag is equivalent to, or higher than, that of its lesser known leather counterpart. 

4. The perfect handbag is not dated by hardware. One year zippers are on trend. The next year it's studs. The year after that, everyone is lacing their bags up. The point is that handbag hardware tie the bag to a trend, and trends are always tied to a moment in time. Want a bag that is timeless? Skip the excessive hardware. I love gold hardware for a luxe look, but if you are a silver girl, go with silver hardware. Gold or silver, keep it minimal and you are always in style. 

5. The perfect handbag is black. I have owned brown bags, and grey bags, and red bags, and teal bags, and yellow bags and British tan bags, but I always come back to black. Black bags are an instant class act and go with everything. They can be dressed up or down. A brown, green, red, tan, pink, or yellow handbag will go with most items in your closet, but it can be difficult to dress up for work or happy hour or a date. Another consideration: denim usage. If you live in your Paige Denim, or J Brands, or Gap 1969s, you will transfer denim color to a light-colored handbag. It is not a matter of if, it is only a matter of when. Once the dreaded denim transfer has taken place, you cannot undo it. A black bag, however, always has your back. You can wear your blues without any worry of denim transfer.

Other hallmarks of a quality handbag: 

• Thick leather
• Leather smell (seriously, try to avoid leather bags that smell like plastic)
• Even stitching on the seams 
• No contrasting top stitching (i.e. white top stitching on a black or brown bag. The color of the top stitching should match the color of the leather)

The Financial Statement: a good leather handbag will likely cost you between $150-$400. Yes, it is true that you can buy pricier bags and you can buy cheaper bags. But you don't want to carry something that you have to baby like it's an actual baby, nor do you want to carry thin, cheap leather that will fall apart after one season. Shop smart, and purchase quality. If you run to into sticker shock, run your price per wear calculation: tag price/total number of wears=price per wear. If you spring for a $300 bag and carry it everyday for one year, the price per wear is $0.82. That's right, 82 cents per wear. Purchase a durable, timeless bag, and it will be in your closet for years to come! 

If you just so happened to fall in love with the Brompton hobo pictured above, it is available at J. Crew in henna, true black, sandstone, and warm burgundy. $298.00.

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Lonely Boy by The Black Keys

Instructions: Press play. The reasons why I am running to this song should become readily apparent. Have a great week, friends! Pin It

Marcel.

Pin It

Happy Black Friday!

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me . . . oh, wait. Oh well. Here's what I'll be asking Santa for this year:

1. Edie Purse, J.Crew, $238. Slightly retro, slightly Left Bank, totally polished. 

2. Nikon D40, Amazon, $350. I've been dying to take my photographs to the next level. This will give me the horsepower I need to get there.

3. West Side Story, Amazon, $36. I don't really know why this DVD is so expensive other than the fact that Glee has now made this musical en vogue to the tween set and they are now buying it in droves. Yet another thing that Glee has ruined. Oh, how I wish I could quit you, Glee! But I can't. So see you on Tuesday! UPDATE: As I was wondering through Target last week, I found the DVD/BluRay set on sale for $16.99 and  kind of bought it for myself. Oops. I would accept this film as a replacement, however.

4. Capri Blue Jar Candle in Volcano, Anthropologie, $28. I know what you are saying, $28 for one candle?! Yes. But it is simply the best candle on the planet. Know how you walk into Anthropologie and have that serene sense of peace right before you get the urge to buy a $150 skirt that looks like you bought it for $5 at the thrift store? This candle is why. They burn them all over the store. And they smell exactly like happiness.

5. Antique Art Deco Ring, etsy, $282. I would love to wear this vintage (c.1910) engagement ring on my right hand. Why? Because it's beautiful, that's why! Do I really need another reason? 

6. Photography class at Long Beach City College. I'm not going to lie: I really really enjoy scouring continuing education brochures from community colleges and wondering if this is going to be the year that I finally learn a traditional African dance or how to play the guitar. I would love, however, to take my new camera (see #2) to a class at LBCC and learn how to do something new with it.

7. Gift card to TJ Maxx, any amount. What can I say? I'm a Maxxinista! 

8. Super Moisturizing Activator, Sephora, $38. This was recommended to me one day while I was wondering the aisles of the Sephora. I have been lusting after a full bottle of this stuff ever since.

9. Kitchenaid Ultra Power Stand Mixer in cherry red, Amazon, $249. My chocolate chip cookies would like to go to the next level too. 

Happy holidays, friends! I hope Santa brings you everything on your wish list this year! 

Pin It

Thanksgiving

This thanksgiving I am so thankful for my family, who, this fall, helped me move many pieces of furniture, one angry cat, and one little life in need of a big change home to California. I am also thankful that I no longer have that haircut! Happy Thanksgiving, friends!


"And though I ebb in worth, I'll flow in thanks." -John Taylor Pin It

Time Waster Wednesdays: Dear Photograph

Dear Photograph: I have a confession to make. I was completely unaware of your quirky existence until my new Kindle Fire arrived last week (have you seen the Kindle Fire? It's like a mini ipad! Unfortunately for me, that has meant more hours dedicated to Angry Birds than to the actual reading of books. Oops!). While exploring my new Kindle, I stumbled upon Pulse, which pulls headlines and articles from websites across the great wide Internets and puts them all on one page for easy perusal. Genius! Since you can specify which websites you want Pulse to pull from, I filled my page with fashion, photography, and entertainment sites, natch. I kept the Wall Street Journal for intellectual street cred. Since I wasn't really reading the WSJ before, I am not really expecting to start now, but then again, who knows. Miracles happen everyday, right? But I digress. One of the recommended photography sites that I added to my Pulse page was you, Dear Photograph. And I am oh so glad I found you!

Best,

Kami

Looking to waste some time on the Internets this Wednesday? Check out Dear Photograph below (or click here):

Dear Photograph,
Remember when you had to come home when the street light came on? Where are  the good old days when the neighborhood was full of kids outside playing tag, hide ‘n seek and wiffle ball? Those were kick the can fun times!

Linda

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Shake it Out by Florence and the Machine

This song reminds me of the early 90's. It's got a real Sinead-Cranberries-Corrs quality to it. The early 90's was a time when my body was a little tighter and my feet were a little faster. Maybe that will make me a little faster this week? Yeah, probably not. It's hard to dance with the devil on your back, so shake it off. See below:



So this song also reminds me of a weekend I spent in bed moping as an undergrad at UC Berkeley. I think that I spent a full 48-hours in bed listening to an old Corrs CD (I know. The Corrs were no longer cool in 2002-3. You don't have to tell me that.) and watching an MTV Sorority Life marathon. Man, that was a good show! And by "good," I mean absolutely terrible. Was I the only who spent 5 minutes every episode watching Jordan spray her entire head with hairspray? Anyone else remember the episode where Candace was supposed be "sober sister" for the night and ended up getting wasted? Or the episode where Jessica got slapped across the face? Drama, drama, drama. Take a walk with me down memory lane, won't you?

Pin It

I'm Hungry for Hunger Games

Okay, so I'm obsessed. Get over it. Better yet, get under it! If you are not yet obsessed with all things Hunger Games, here is a look at the first official trailer for the Lionsgate film (is it wrong that I kind of want Katniss' dress from the reaping scene?):


Ready to take it to the next level? Head over to The Capitol and register for your District Identification Pass. Here's mine:

Maybe my fashion obsession stems from my Panem occupation as a District 8 textile factory worker? 

Better yet, if you have not yet read the books, run out and read them now! You can purchase The Hunger Games trilogy from your local bookstore, Target, or Amazon (in print and ebook), or you can check out your local library. 

The Hunger Games is slated for release in theaters on March 23, 2012. May the odds be ever in your favor!

Pin It

Closet Confessions

I have the following things in common with former RHONY (Real Housewife of New York) and star of Bethenny Ever After, Bethenny Frankel:

1. I like to do impressions of Jill Zarin.
2. Red is my power color.
3. I live for peep toe shoes.
4. I wanted to be an actress when I was 18.
5. I have sold my handbags on eBay when I was strapped for cash.
6. I have a not-so-secret obsession with Martha Stewart.
7. I think Jason Hoppy is kinda hot.
8. I am a scorpio.
9. I never pay retail.
10. I'm not a "keeper," but I'm a keeper.

Here's a peak into Bethenny Frankel's closet, courtesy of Bluefly.
  Pin It

What it Really Feels Like to Fail the Bar Exam

If you have never failed a bar exam (or if you have never taken a bar exam) and you have always wondered what it felt like not to see your name on the pass list, here it is: failing a bar exam feels a lot like getting dumped by that guy you never wanted to go out with in the first place. You know, the one with the goofy hair who always has spinach in his teeth? The one who laughs at all of his own lame jokes? Failing the bar exam feels like getting rejected by the guy you go out with because you don't have anyone else to go out with, and what else are you going to do on Friday night? You are pretty, and smart, and funny and you should have guys lined up around the block, but you kind of don't, so you have to make it work with Spinach Tooth. Because he can be okay, right? In a dimly lit restaurant after 3 glasses of wine, he's totally okay. Right?

Here's the deal: you made it through law school. You fought, you cried, you cursed, and you bled your way through. You stayed up all night to write papers and study for final exams. You interned, you externed, you clerked for an attorney who told you that you would never ever make it as a lawyer. Ever. And you wondered along the way if it was worth it. It had to be worth it. Otherwise it wouldn't cost so much, right? And then you studied for the bar exam. You stayed up late studying. You stared into space for hours at time silently willing the Rules of Evidence to embed themselves in your brain. You took over 5,000 practice multiple choice questions. You studied so long and so hard that you couldn't have a normal conversation with anyone for at least a week before the exam. You walked into walls because you couldn't focus on walking in a straight line long enough to actually do it. And then you took the exam. 3 days of thinking and analyzing and typing; trying to stay just calm enough to write everything you can possibly remember about intestate succession. Praying that a question about criminal law shows up so that you can make up the points you're sure you lost on the contracts question because you couldn't quite remember all of the mailbox rule.

Failing the bar feels like that time you got all dressed up to go out with Spinach Tooth. You bought a new dress and shoes. You did your hair. You even shaved your legs. You acted as though this was your very last stop before spinsterville. You did what you could. You laughed at his dumb jokes. You pretended to pay attention when he talked only about himself and that time he attended the Republican National Convention, or spent a year growing facial hair, or had a crush on a girl in marching band back when he was in high school. You did exactly what you were supposed to do. And then he dumps you. By email. Or voice mail. Or text message. And you think wha?! This guy wasn't good enough to go out with me in the first place! Where does he get off rejecting me? You spend a sad night with a bottle of wine and The Notebook, and then you vow to do whatever it takes to get him back. Because, damn it, you are going to dump him next time!

That's what failing the bar exam really feels like. But I don't feel that way today. Because I now understand that the bar exam has more to do with moderating the influx of new lawyers into an already strained marketplace than it has to do with any actual skills an attorney would need. Since I don't want to practice right now, it is almost better that a bar number that would have gone to me will now go to some 26-year old who just graduated from law school and is eager to get out there and find out just how much it really sucks to bill hours. And I'm okay with that. Almost. Pin It

Trousers.

When you are unemployed, the one thing you have in spades is time. Time to stop and notice things. What I have noticed since I have been unemployed is that my casual wardrobe is severely lacking. Turns out my closet is about 90% depo wear, 7% sequins, and 3% yoga pants. Bummer. What I really need to beef up my wardrobe is pants. Not jeans. Pants. Trousers. Bottoms. If I had someone else's credit card, here is what I would buy:

1. KUT from the Kloth Lightweight Denim Trousers, Nordstrom, $38.90

2. Stretch Bluebells Highrise Indigo, EmersonMade, $198.00

3. 1969 Wide Leg Trouser Jeans, GAP, $69.95

4. Kimchi Pant, EmersonMade, $168.00

5. Not Your Daughter's Jeans Colored Skinny Denim, Bloomingdale's, $78.00 (on sale--ends 11/20)

6. J Brand 29" Skinny, Anthropologie, $176.00

7. BCBGMAXAZRIA Jean Faux Leather Pant Legging, Zappos, $148.00

8. Vince Crop Leather Legging, Nordstrom, $1,250.00

9. Warehouse Faux Leather Jeggings, Asos, $48.52

Alas, the irony of being unemployed is having the time to notice that you are deficient in casual wear, but not having the funds to improve the situation. Le sigh. Oh well. A girl can dream, right? 

Pin It

Glee Takes On: The LBD

On Monday, I mentioned in "What I'm Running to Now" that I am running to Adele's "Rumour Has It" this week. On Tuesday, Glee premiered the episode"Mash Off," which featured the same song. Freaky rando coincidence? Not so much. I was definitely inspired by the early release of Glee's take on two Adele hits ("Rumour Has It/Someone Like You"), but after dragging my little running feet to Coldplay last week, I could not afford to do the senior shuffle during the "Someone Like You" sections of the Glee version. Plus, there ain't nothing like the real thing. Baby. I am still, however, enamored by Glee's take on Adele's signature style: monochromatic black attire, low side pony, and winged eyeliner. Missed the episode? Here's the clip:

Need something to wear this holiday season? The LBD (Little Black Dress) is always relevant. Lest you think that the LBD lacks imagination, Glee deftly demonstrates that there is a different little black dress for every size, color, creed, and mood. Take a closer look.

Santana: The Ruffled LBD

kate spade gala dress, $495. As a side note, I love that kate spade heavily features super pale models in their ads, on their runways, and on their website. I'm pretty sure that I would look like I just returned from Cancun if I happened to stand next to this girl, and my life dream is to have a "white off" with Julianne Moore! For the record, I firmly believe that if it makes you feel better to spray tan it, then by all means, Mystic Tan away! If, however, you just washed your white sheets and don't feel like staining them orange, please please embrace the pale! All skin tones and colors are beautiful--whether you are Casper or cocoa or any shade in between!

Mercedes: The V-Necked LBD

j.crew louisa dress, $225. This is a terrific option if you are on the busty side of the street as the thick straps allow for the wearing of a supportive bra. This dress also nips in at the waist and floats away from the body, which is key if you believe Stacy and Clinton (which I do!). If you are less than excited about your hips/butt/thighs, the A-line skirt also provides excellent camo. The best part about this dress? You can have a Spanx-free evening and enjoy the canapes!

Brittany: The LBD with the LBB (Little Black Bow)

'60's mod party dress, etsy, $85. A note when buying vintage: beware of size inflation! A size 6 today was often equivalent to a size 8, 10, or 12 in the days of yore. Use measurements (bust, waist, hips) rather than size to evaluate fit when you cannot try the dress on in person.

Background LBDs: The Covered Uncovered LBD

a.b.s. by allen schwartz, bluefly, $249.

The Strapless LBD

max and cleo, nordstrom, $158. Love your arms? Go strapless. But if you feel like your shoulders could rival those on the Seattle Seahawks' O-line, skip the strapless or go with a strapless dress with sheer overlay like the A.B.S. dress listed above. There is minimal extra fabric, but the sheer paneled "straps" create the illusion of a daintier shoulder.

The Sequined LBD

michael michael kors, nordstrom, $150. The sequined LBD is for the girl that wants to sparkle. Because the material itself is the star of the show, many sequined dresses tend to have more forgiving cuts than their glitter-impaired counterparts. This dress is pattered after the classic wrap dress, which is extremely figure friendly. One note on sequins: if you don't want to look like a refugee from the Vegas Strip, keep all other style elements simple. I would wear this dress with my hair up, winged black liner, or a red lip and a smile.

The Financial Statement: The little black dress is a wardrobe staple. It will be your go-to for the last minute dinner date, the holiday party, or the evening wedding. It will be your answer to nearly every "what do I wear to the cocktail or semi-formal event" question. Take your time, find a LBD that you love, and be prepared to pay more for it. When you look at the tag, run a quick price per wear calculation to determine the real cost of the dress. Example: if the tag says $300, and you know you will wear the dress to two holiday parties and on New Year's Eve, divide $300 by 3. The price per wear is $100 if you only wear the dress three times. The more "wears" you can squeeze into that dress, the lower the price per wear. Please note that the key component to the price per wear calculation is honesty. If you know that a dress is perfect for NYE, but you doubt you will ever wear it again, don't kid yourself. You are paying $300 for a dress that you will only wear once. If you can afford that, great! If you know that you can't, put the dress back and either keep looking for a more versatile option that lowers the price per wear or look for a similar dress at a lower price point (i.e. F21, H&M, Zara, Target, thrift, etc.).

Pin It

Wish I Could Go: Rebecca Minkoff NYC Sample Sale!

In places I wish I could go news, Rebecca Minkoff is having a NYC Sample Sale! If you find yourself in the Big Apple from November 16-20, be sure to hit up the sale for me! See below for the deets: 

Happy Shopping!

Pin It

Magic

Sometimes you just have to let go of all of your worries, concerns, fears, grocery lists, and never ending to-dos and stand in the presence of something beautiful. So when the opportunity arose for my sister and me to spend yesterday afternoon running around Disneyland, I jumped at it! Yes, it's a little early for holiday cheer, but who cares when it's all so flawless! I hadn't been to Disneyland in about 10 years, but I was amazed at just how easy it was to get caught up in the Disney magic. Disney takes no short cuts. Anywhere. Every detail is perfect. If you have not been to Disneyland recently, find an opportunity to go back. It really is magical.

Style Tip #28: Take a tip from Disney: Anything worth doing, is worth doing beautifully! Pin It

I Just Met a Girl Named Maria

When I was little, my dad used to travel for business. A lot. When he was away, my mom was left to entertain my sister and me on her own. One summer my mom organized "camp outs" in our living room every Friday night. We ordered pizza and had picnics on the living room floor. We braved the wilderness of the den and spent the nights sleeping on the couch foldout. And every indoor camping excursion centered around the movie of the week. There was a different 1960's movie each and every Friday night. That summer I watched Gidget and Moondoggy surf and fall in love, Annette and Frankie sing, and every beach-blanket-how-to-stuff-a-bikini flick that my mother could get her hands on. But my favorite film was West Side Story. I was so obsessed with Natalie Wood's Maria that I would ask for a pass from swim lessons on days when I was able to replicate Maria's trademark hair flip. In honor of West Side Story's 50th anniversary and new release to Blu Ray, here is my interpretation of Maria's outfit in the film's tragic final scene. Here's the clip:

Here's the outfit:

Step 1: Start with a red shift with 3/4 length sleeves. Check out the Jules dress from J.Crew in fresh strawberry here. Note: If were planning to wear this dress to work, I would also add a thin black belt and opaque black tights. And yes, black tights do work with the shoes in Step 4. Just make sure not to purchase a pair with a seam that runs across the front of the toe. And for the love of all that is good and holy, please please do not substitute pantyhose for tights. And yes, there is a difference.

Step 2: Add a delicate pendant necklace. I love this delicate horizontal cross from Dogeared and the sentiment on the card included in the packaging. See a similar necklace on Kourtney Kardashian here.

Step 3: Top with a dark knit scarf. Score this chunky grey knit from Gap for under $30!

Step 4: Finish with a kicky black heel. Check out the heel detail on these Zara peep toes!

If you have never seen West Side Story, please please please Netflix it, purchase it on DVD or Blu Ray, or steal it from a friend. Fall in love with the music, dancing, and candy colored dresses. You. Will. Not. Be. Sorry. Te adoro, West Side Story.

Pin It

What I'm Running To: Rumour Has It by Adele

Let's face it, there really is nothing like a song about a low down, dirty dog getting his comeuppance to get your feet moving. Rumor has it this is the week I'm getting back on my workout schedule. . .

Pin It

Tradition

When we were little, our birthdays always began with a blueberry muffin. Living in Portland, I was about 1000 miles away from this little family ritual and I had almost forgotten what it meant. This morning as I made these treats for my sister's birthday, I remembered exactly why I moved back home: to make the birthday blueberry muffins! Just kidding. Kind of. It is nice, however, not be the 30 minute phone call and a package from UPS this year. Want to start your own blueberry muffin tradition? Find a recipe similar to the one I used here. Note: the secret really is the sour cream!

Style Tip #3: Go to great lengths to preserve little local traditions.

Pin It

When I Say "Happy," You Say "Birthday"

You may be 6 years younger, but you're clearly a lot cooler! I love you and I am so proud of you! I can't wait to see all you will accomplish in the next year!

Pin It

You Say "Tomato," I Say "Soup!"

On a cold, rainy day, there is nothing quite like a bowl of hot tomato soup. I ate many a bowl of tomato soup and many a grilled cheese sandwich when I lived in Portland (9 months of rain, yo!). I had never, however, attempted to make tomato soup from scratch, opting instead for canned Campbell's convenience. That is, until tonight. Enter The New Best Recipe: All New Edition from the editors of Cook's Illustrated. This culinary tome may have just ruined me for all canned soups forever. Interested in creating your own tomato soup epiphany? Find a similar tomato soup recipe here. And because soup can't stand alone, tonight I paired it with homemade cornbread. Find a similar cornbread recipe here. Note: tomato soup is a labor of love. It took longer to make and was much messier than I had anticipated. This is not something I would attempt if I came home from work tired and was like, hmmm, what can I make in 30 minutes?Save yourself the headache and ask Rachel Ray what to do in that situation. But if you have the time to roast and simmer and you don't mind significant clean-up, give it a try!

like I said, culinary tome!

tomatoes lined up for the roasting

yes, that is soup in the blender.

Almost finished!

tomato soup and cornbread, bffs!

As a side note, there is a bit of a running disagreement when it comes to the kitchen soundtrack selection at my dad's house. He wants country and I want anything else. Yet somehow at the end of my little soup adventure, I found myself yelling "Country must be . . . country wide!" into a spatula (and for the record, I'm not even sure what that song means). It was a little like this:

Pin It