tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3018614018431576592024-03-05T17:43:47.380-08:00Ze ZaftigSRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-26485064175668097762013-01-02T18:58:00.001-08:002013-01-02T19:10:41.050-08:00#48 Fashion Faux Paus & Happy New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm sorry to do it, but I am about to commit a major fashion blog faux pas: post the same outfit worn on a different day, within just a few weeks of one another. I absolutely love this wiggle dress that I bought from ASOS and I had to wear it to this 1920's party I went to on New Years Eve. It's a lot more Joan from Mad Men than '20s flapper, but it was the best I could do for our last minute NYE plans.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzhkJHiSJOHM3mJpwAk0HB5EQniEeBCLMSRQqINuiF_V0RT52ozKygMROfXax3debRAB-_KhmDlhpihTvhqdbRUbMFJvL80YX7dWdmJiYVrO28jHaGh4O7XHn1wtlVMhEmqZ5VFRqv0NH/s1600/358916586998543940_193815716.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzhkJHiSJOHM3mJpwAk0HB5EQniEeBCLMSRQqINuiF_V0RT52ozKygMROfXax3debRAB-_KhmDlhpihTvhqdbRUbMFJvL80YX7dWdmJiYVrO28jHaGh4O7XHn1wtlVMhEmqZ5VFRqv0NH/s400/358916586998543940_193815716.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfJ1Cq-Q46INUVOSO9CPsf1KJuGOl0XEdeT6ad40lJGtWid706ncAnR6rQyrTBkc8nn-fIVpg5h2PtP9RdlGQzZeyRvsrZb9X8hAIRkidWty331ic8O8_BcVhJ-Zh96bybLz9yfB51rEF/s1600/358925687950358297_193815716.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfJ1Cq-Q46INUVOSO9CPsf1KJuGOl0XEdeT6ad40lJGtWid706ncAnR6rQyrTBkc8nn-fIVpg5h2PtP9RdlGQzZeyRvsrZb9X8hAIRkidWty331ic8O8_BcVhJ-Zh96bybLz9yfB51rEF/s400/358925687950358297_193815716.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Mg94LOCskTzXry2rx_dQHkPfo3jlPnBJsSZcj91UualfVCcAv6KxRn802jWisIuoRnlU-PJS8STR_RMRylTa4s61-LFCWKyGRDlI2D5mkDwspZaV7ZdFZA9cw4LscHgSJ7C4t_ZTz8_k/s1600/newyears01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Mg94LOCskTzXry2rx_dQHkPfo3jlPnBJsSZcj91UualfVCcAv6KxRn802jWisIuoRnlU-PJS8STR_RMRylTa4s61-LFCWKyGRDlI2D5mkDwspZaV7ZdFZA9cw4LscHgSJ7C4t_ZTz8_k/s320/newyears01.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I love my new sparkly flats from Nine West. They are this beautiful iridescent glitter, full of dark blues, purples, and silver.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJsQfVXmnltRDPad53JOZ8bFUlkQp5YSDYgO7xMKcaUKTFmqgOHLemhBNi1_cFpoPX49db2Qgx59zwYXjx2pxc8PO-iS0brxOYMRQiNVqTn6MO-ZrphKFeqBsHOGna-4J_BWObWn0o9oV/s1600/358925654723082008_193815716.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJsQfVXmnltRDPad53JOZ8bFUlkQp5YSDYgO7xMKcaUKTFmqgOHLemhBNi1_cFpoPX49db2Qgx59zwYXjx2pxc8PO-iS0brxOYMRQiNVqTn6MO-ZrphKFeqBsHOGna-4J_BWObWn0o9oV/s640/358925654723082008_193815716.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2012 was a challenging but exciting year.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I accomplished one of my lifelong dreams: I finally moved to NYC. I said goodbye to all my friends and family, and my amazing students who mean the world to me, my old school and all my wonderful coworkers, hopped in a Uhaul and moved to the Big Apple all by my lonesome.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been one of the hardest but also most exciting years of my life. It's been lonely sometimes, yet also filled with joy and love. I've seen much beauty but also darkness. However, no matter if I've been up or down, I have boundless gratitude for all the wonderful blessings in my life and there are many. Happy New Year!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/imagewizz/7851701168/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="New York skyline by PhotographWizard, on Flickr"><img alt="New York skyline" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8294/7851701168_d0800135d3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-9209322479722862122012-12-28T15:34:00.004-08:002012-12-28T15:40:17.499-08:00#47: You can fly! You can fly! You can fly!I'm loving being home for the holidays. I got to be with my family in Cleveland, and now I'm hanging out with my best friends in Columbus. It's so rejuvenating to be back with the ones you love the most. I'm looking forward to being in NYC for a more extended period of time and really having close relationships there. I think that's the hardest part about moving-- you get a fresh start, which is beautiful and something I desperately needed, but sometimes you feel disconnected from the people around you. I'm sort of that super awkward person that's like, "Hey! I like you! You seem cool! Wanna be best friends now? Like right this second?" That kind of 0 to 60 relationship doesn't seem to work for everyone... guess that's the Ohio naiveté in me. Okay, end rant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hmm50JJULtTzsXY4L_W7lPkRRBYVs77W5PdTqkjgoDmAsQYcHi3PsChXBYJnK-Zp9P0hGEMsxI76bzuUooFCw9QujVuqDZ0Lie-ym-nMzRh0qL_0rLc47X4d8ErtjsGOcQiy60iH1zWx/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.14+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hmm50JJULtTzsXY4L_W7lPkRRBYVs77W5PdTqkjgoDmAsQYcHi3PsChXBYJnK-Zp9P0hGEMsxI76bzuUooFCw9QujVuqDZ0Lie-ym-nMzRh0qL_0rLc47X4d8ErtjsGOcQiy60iH1zWx/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.14+PM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZOR-GfV0kPfoaMaQ9n1kaxUpgdgIT-1boGOt-F9NGAe9Hz-J3A-mckML-ox75CQQP0hFPzx9yTpDslnt_lY_WPbTMnEH4S3KkuyD6ZSI6hMyQwLp2EmUqMeOlCekA81IACcix33WMS44/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.17+PM+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZOR-GfV0kPfoaMaQ9n1kaxUpgdgIT-1boGOt-F9NGAe9Hz-J3A-mckML-ox75CQQP0hFPzx9yTpDslnt_lY_WPbTMnEH4S3KkuyD6ZSI6hMyQwLp2EmUqMeOlCekA81IACcix33WMS44/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.17+PM+%232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pardon the web cam photos but I was flying solo last night! I started using this new strategy on my makeup where you used your eyeliner only on the upper lash line to get some very subtle but very flattering eye definition. I nabbed this trick from <a href="http://thebeautydepartment.com/2012/11/incognito-eye-definition/#more-8226">The Beauty Department</a>, which refers to this tip as the "No Liner Liner." TBD is one of my favorite beauty blogs for tips-- I think it turned out great and my eyes look really defined but subtle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My hair used to be about 5 inches longer than this and I got it cut-- at first I freaked out (anyone who's had long hair their whole life knows what I'm talking about), but now that I see how much the natural curl has come back, I'm super grateful. All that length was really weighing my wave down!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFaDF0R_G0aqxkIn-P8YZMlydcxnYCHCxseV2pBUtmk45JH9KPtgfEnuPT0ytpLq79JbNmnDak4Upu5X-cGSuwGOhT53HhO74To_qjs5xHabzxzYpySn1kqvl20K5MyLTvXW9zPFk-hFlu/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFaDF0R_G0aqxkIn-P8YZMlydcxnYCHCxseV2pBUtmk45JH9KPtgfEnuPT0ytpLq79JbNmnDak4Upu5X-cGSuwGOhT53HhO74To_qjs5xHabzxzYpySn1kqvl20K5MyLTvXW9zPFk-hFlu/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCoY3XucMQgZJMunO2DfPxf6qR-tj6rKamc7_ais4ELm0bXrkNB4nQ5kBhSailtlhPDz6AooCHo-Gg4vtAV_t-MoHhAD8GdHgf3Kx7HS4AlxQbe8KJ6rP3QbooQC0SLho9F-L2SzR5Zxo/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCoY3XucMQgZJMunO2DfPxf6qR-tj6rKamc7_ais4ELm0bXrkNB4nQ5kBhSailtlhPDz6AooCHo-Gg4vtAV_t-MoHhAD8GdHgf3Kx7HS4AlxQbe8KJ6rP3QbooQC0SLho9F-L2SzR5Zxo/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlSbPrV1qh31MrETGdh3Kwr7RKhMtNZXYH0dE1gcRHBX_wkZxwKVl2Cq81AWbveuKGVVW0T76ryDD0_JtbwiBXDvmCGhA3yZL5BO-BkSNK-g0mPBqyPqQfhX3kkTAUXw18b9yBjrwVxsr/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlSbPrV1qh31MrETGdh3Kwr7RKhMtNZXYH0dE1gcRHBX_wkZxwKVl2Cq81AWbveuKGVVW0T76ryDD0_JtbwiBXDvmCGhA3yZL5BO-BkSNK-g0mPBqyPqQfhX3kkTAUXw18b9yBjrwVxsr/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.25+PM+%234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4flhFnxyJQrp2Elq7XsWYVCd0xQjS4Da6pkP9tpSgUIuvznqMXcGwRBssBhWtQxIWIrF8gA1TFSidOfK4H747hEW5HUn5safjr1h0ELG3nueHt9UBhtNhaZTyrTMo706AE5xzjnKqjk1/s1600/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.27+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4flhFnxyJQrp2Elq7XsWYVCd0xQjS4Da6pkP9tpSgUIuvznqMXcGwRBssBhWtQxIWIrF8gA1TFSidOfK4H747hEW5HUn5safjr1h0ELG3nueHt9UBhtNhaZTyrTMo706AE5xzjnKqjk1/s640/Photo+on+12-27-12+at+6.27+PM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">DRESS </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Skater Dress with Lace Peter Pan Collar,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> ASOS Curve | <b>TIGHTS</b></span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Polka Dot Tights, Forever 21+ | </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">SHOES</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> Spiky Cap Toe Flats, Sam Edelman | <b>GLASSES </b>Green Spectaculars, Fabulous Fannies in the East Village, NYC</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: IM Fell French Canon;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Please enjoy laughing at me re: the pictures above. I was using Photo Booth on my computer and as you know if you have that app, you literally have 3 seconds to snap the pic. Therefore, I was running back and forth like a weirdo trying to get shots of my entire outfit, which provided nearly impossible, unless I made some awkward ballerina poses or bent down in a weird pooping position. Clearly, I am awesome!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: IM Fell French Canon;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: IM Fell French Canon;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">These Peter Pan dress from ASOS is one of the favorites in my wardrobe. It's a little big and blousy, but the color is so vibrant and I love the lace collar so much. ASOS Curve has it in <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-CURVE-Skater-Dress-With-Lace-Peter-Pan-Collar/ysy8d/?iid=2392429&SearchQuery=lace%20peter%20pan&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Red&mporgp=L0FTT1MtQ3VydmUvQVNPUy1DVVJWRS1Ta2F0ZXItRHJlc3MtV2l0aC1MYWNlLVBldGVyLVBhbi1Db2xsYXIvUHJvZC8.">red</a> (on sale for $50), <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-CURVE-Skater-Dress-With-Lace-Peter-Pan-and-Belt/z8m73/?iid=2646277&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Cobalt&mporgp=L0FTT1MtQ3VydmUvQVNPUy1DVVJWRS1Ta2F0ZXItRHJlc3MtV2l0aC1MYWNlLVBldGVyLVBhbi1hbmQtQmVsdC9Qcm9kLw..">mustard</a> (on sale for $35), and <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-CURVE-Skater-Dress-With-Lace-Peter-Pan-and-Belt/z8m73/?iid=2646277&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Cobalt&mporgp=L0FTT1MtQ3VydmUvQVNPUy1DVVJWRS1Ta2F0ZXItRHJlc3MtV2l0aC1MYWNlLVBldGVyLVBhbi1hbmQtQmVsdC9Qcm9kLw..">cobalt</a>.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: IM Fell French Canon;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: IM Fell French Canon;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Also, I am on the hunt for some amazing wide-calf boots. I feel like my calves aren't that wide (maybe 17"?), but I can't seem to get anything to zip over these babies! Anyone have a good source for any wide calf boots? I was at Macy's and ALDO today and I was sorely disappointed. However, my awesome step-mom got me a gift certificate to Sephora for my birthday so my crankiness quickly subsided after I bought a Boscia skin care sampler, matte red lipstick, and moss green liquid eyeliner! I can't wait to share these products with you in a future entry! Happy New Year!</span></span></div>
<br />SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-87759129822025885712012-12-25T19:40:00.000-08:002012-12-25T19:40:38.312-08:00#46 Wallflower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Oh... hey. I didn't see you there. Good to know you're still reading. Merry Christmas by the way. Remember that time I moved to New York and things were really hard and usually fun but especially hard? Remember that time I had a terrible situation with my landlord and four months after my move to NYC I had to move to a different apartment? Yeah, that was fun. Don't ask.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Excuses aside, it has been a very challenging first few months in NYC. I don't regret for a single second making the move from Ohio --> NYC. I love my job, my students, and the opportunity to experience new things, culture, art, and amazing food every day. But it isn't easy. Definitely not easy. Thanks to everyone who kept up with my little blog and asked about my whereabouts. You are awesome.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I wore the following outfit to a Holiday party for work. I'm obsessed with these ASOS line of wiggle dresses. They elegantly accentuate curves and you may know about my affinity for dresses with pockets. I'm not one for below the knee length dresses that aren't maxis, but there's something so classy and regal about it. I got a lot of comparison to Joan from Mad Men that night. Pardon the bags underneath my eyes-- these photos are not photoshopped and wow, it's been a challenging month.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizizLw5UZbj2NAyypJ0yynMKGgFa-8vf3YGlRcYpI8qJhvOdnBeh6IYk0KxRL0gIDDm_2SHFevw_W16JC_wSChWbmWwUQmvVI9SnH3N502CkaoExQ0MSFt_JRkLNvX_XgCvDVFtFuExnxM/s1600/IMG_3677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizizLw5UZbj2NAyypJ0yynMKGgFa-8vf3YGlRcYpI8qJhvOdnBeh6IYk0KxRL0gIDDm_2SHFevw_W16JC_wSChWbmWwUQmvVI9SnH3N502CkaoExQ0MSFt_JRkLNvX_XgCvDVFtFuExnxM/s640/IMG_3677.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBKm5Abi1BrWFswu0sOC8FfLgroMZ7Y5Wn21VXUnUReE6LMpm_LFgvf6cV3RchjagNtN358_lGu2drbu6HzEDByT6pvnf-xHoBrq5CCJunRA-XoZn9qsrMfVw0aQu8HHc2zlWYAa-StzW/s1600/IMG_3684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBKm5Abi1BrWFswu0sOC8FfLgroMZ7Y5Wn21VXUnUReE6LMpm_LFgvf6cV3RchjagNtN358_lGu2drbu6HzEDByT6pvnf-xHoBrq5CCJunRA-XoZn9qsrMfVw0aQu8HHc2zlWYAa-StzW/s640/IMG_3684.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'IM Fell French Canon'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<b>DRESS </b>Wallpaper Wiggle Dress, ASOS | <b>BELT </b>Golden Bug Belt, ASOS Curve | <b>SHOES</b> Red Suede Wedges, ALDO</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy holidays & happy New Year!</div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-84079948140953618082012-09-18T08:09:00.001-07:002012-09-18T08:12:15.863-07:00#45 INSPIRED BY: Gangnam Style<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9bZkp7q19f0" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<br />
I don't know about you, but I am absolutely obsessed with PSY, the South Korean rapper and creator of the amazing song and video, "Gangnam Style." A friend of mine showed it to me at work on Friday and I can't get the song, video, and dance out of my head. The word "Gangnam" refers to an area of South Korea's capital, Seoul-- the wealthiest area of all of South Korea.<br />
<br />
As I watched the video, besides the hilarious antics and overly dramatic vignettes, I was really blown away by the fashion and inspired by the attention to details in the scenes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m9cgbcK0VG1qb767g.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m9cgbcK0VG1qb767g.gif" width="200" /></a><a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTG3qc4bPmn8X9gqJkQFHq0weZ-oP7yz7_PrPA6e6bOM52N9i_u" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTG3qc4bPmn8X9gqJkQFHq0weZ-oP7yz7_PrPA6e6bOM52N9i_u" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQPuOOk31CxPH-xZDxxgEhgbAVXt8ANTSrx-DXdBHBr5NYgboTQ8Q" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQPuOOk31CxPH-xZDxxgEhgbAVXt8ANTSrx-DXdBHBr5NYgboTQ8Q" width="183" /></a><a href="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRuvX7KIlwN5xIeUd5ry920Gd1rM8blfu2O0P_iqynruZbdT169" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRuvX7KIlwN5xIeUd5ry920Gd1rM8blfu2O0P_iqynruZbdT169" width="186" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://americankpopfans.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/hyuna-gangnam-style.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://americankpopfans.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/hyuna-gangnam-style.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lots of tuxedo jackets with piping, billiard ball peplum shirts, sequin and leather shorts, lots of accessories and necklaces, neon yellow from head to toe, wedge sneakers, sheer flowy fabrics, and equestrian themes throughout. PSY wears several different pairs of amazing sunglasses in the video (my favorite being the tortoise shell ones) and he has two or three button up shirts that have undone bow-ties, but they appear to be sewed or printed on the shirt! I also love the scene when he's on the tour bus, and he's wearing a military style white shirt with gold buttons and these really high fashion looking khaki kilt/skirt/shorts. So much detail clearly went into every aspect of the video, especially the fashion, so it's no wonder why I'm obsessed. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/gangnam_style/set?.embedder=2723780&.svc=copypaste&id=59139026"><img alt="Gangnam Style" border="0" height="493" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/JtV61XNC2SsKcsK0LMYkw/cid/59139026/id/Y0npkepSR_2uucZokYrMzQ/size/c600x493.jpg" title="Gangnam Style" width="600" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/gangnam_style/set?.embedder=2723780&.svc=copypaste&id=59139026">Gangnam Style</a> by <a href="http://zezaftig.polyvore.com/?.embedder=2723780&.svc=copypaste">zezaftig</a></small><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Above, I created a Polyvore spread inspired by the video. My favorite items are the sequin short shorts from Top Shop, the Moschino tuxedo jacket via Net-a-porter, the neon yellow sneakers by Betsey Johnson, the resin necklace from Etsy, the Karen Walker sunglasses, the Miu Miu ruffled peplum top (genius!) and the equestrian print collared dress by Therapy. And I couldn't forget one of my favorite lip colors, Schiap by NARS (available at Sephora). If you click through, Polyvore will show you where to buy all of these lovely albums. So what do you think? Are you feeling "Gangnam Style" and PSY's crazy fashion?</div>
</div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-81096689395613241452012-09-16T13:05:00.002-07:002012-09-16T13:06:13.635-07:00#44 Final Days of Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxN5FCiKueIenn7UKLqj0vKar2487IFbKD4925z3-JQskorNFX5Z0A8vy3VBJAMHQllkQY5m1aZKGLNO0jROSn5ZU0CZKNu_XDBVUCIBhMevE5uwlzstKKcLvDcQAQ4DruDe4SKeuxZrB/s1600/Instagwam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxN5FCiKueIenn7UKLqj0vKar2487IFbKD4925z3-JQskorNFX5Z0A8vy3VBJAMHQllkQY5m1aZKGLNO0jROSn5ZU0CZKNu_XDBVUCIBhMevE5uwlzstKKcLvDcQAQ4DruDe4SKeuxZrB/s640/Instagwam.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DRESS </b>Mint Skater Dress, H&M | <b>NECKLACE</b> Cobalt Silver/Gold Statement Necklace, Urban Outfitters | <b>RING </b>Oversized Black Gem Ring, H&M | <b>SHOES</b> Faux Suede Black Tassel Sandals, H&M</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's starting to get cooler and cooler, and I might say that this will be my last "summer outfit" I'll post for 2012. So sad, yet I can't deny how much I am looking forward to cooler weather, leather jackets, warm apple cider, jewel tones (especially cobalt and raspberry), boots and booties, Halloween, thick socks, trees changing colors, patterned scarves, and layered sweaters and collared shirts. I really need to get a tripod so I can take some pictures of my latest fall wear for you!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm also looking forward to when September is over. Don't get me wrong: I *LOVE* my school so much and the kids are absolutely amazing. However, every day in September we are required to attend daily meetings after school to help solve problems and work on logistical issues. I work at an extended day charter school, which means we already get out around 5pm, plus evening meetings... it's a long day to say the least. I'm looking forward to having a little more free time, a little more sleep, and lots more availability to take pictures and write blog posts. In the mean time, thanks for your patience! What are you looking forward to this fall?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-15261622355664825362012-09-08T11:52:00.003-07:002012-09-08T11:54:37.499-07:00#43 Short & Sweet<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/dsc0121001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/5225/dsc0121001.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Labor Day weekend is always a busy time. There are always events, anniversaries, weddings, and cookouts. It's also the last "hurrah" for me because I teach, and Labor Day weekend always signifies the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. So bittersweet. Labor Day has a lot of meaning for me-- my sister and brother-in-law were married over 16 years ago on Labor Day. My father was remarried to a wonderful woman on Labor Day exactly one year ago. And my brother plans on getting married on Labor Day of 2013. This Labor Day, however, my first cousin Zach married his beautiful bride, Katie!<br />
<br />
It was an overcast and humid day, but I really enjoyed spending time with my family and especially, my adorable and amazing niece and nephews. To accommodate for the extreme heat, I wore a short and sweet neon yellow lace dress, lost my thick glasses, but mistakenly straightened my hair. You'll rarely see me with straight hair, as although I consider myself a fashionista, I'm pretty low maintenance and refuse to waste 90 minutes of my time straightening my hair! However, with some down time in the hotel, I figured, why not?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/255/dsc0114001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/9243/dsc0114001.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The beautiful bride and groom.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/dsc0135001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/5945/dsc0135001.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They were married at the bride's farm home, and there are lakes and cattails everywhere.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/690/dsc0138001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/2614/dsc0138001.jpg" /></a><br />
They had these totally creative place cards with origami swans on them. Love it.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/515/dsc0236z.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6968/dsc0236z.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Long hair, don't care.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/dsc0221001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/7078/dsc0221001.jpg" /></a><br />
Yellow on yellow.<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/607/dsc0218001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img607.imageshack.us/img607/25/dsc0218001.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love my cage wedges! They are so crazy comfortable.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/513/dsc024701.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/9088/dsc024701.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Extreme close up!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/526/dsc0327001.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/7213/dsc0327001.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DRESS </b>Neon Yellow Shift Dress, H&M (current) | <b>BELT </b>Braided Yellow Belt, Target | <b>SHOES </b>Stone Cage Wedges, Guess | <b>BRACELET </b>"Diamond" Rhinestone Bracelet, The Limited | <b>BAG </b>Dalmatian Cross-Body Satchel, H&M (current)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I really like the dual shades of yellow working together. I really think it looks gorgeous to have a bright color and pair it with accessories that are just a few shades off. Is that a form of color-blocking? Who knows... that term gets thrown around so much lately, it no longer has meaning.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also, I highly recommend you run down to your local H&M and do a little browsing. The clothes are always hit or miss for me, especially in terms of sizing, but I snagged this little yellow number for only $15, plus the current accessories are amazing. My dalmatian print bag is my new favorite. I also bought some red and black plaid sneakers, bright yellow flats (to go with my neon yellow dress, of course), and patent black oxfords. Can't wait to show these off in the next outfit post! Happy belated Labor Day!</div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-12773199720355523162012-08-30T17:33:00.003-07:002012-08-30T18:50:04.031-07:00#42 A Tourist's Experience: ChicagoOver Spring Break last year, my boyfriend and I got to take a really fun vacation-- we spent half the time in Hocking Hills, Ohio in a little cabin (future entry) and the other half in Chicago (this entry)! My boyfriend currently lives in Germany, and feeling a little blue, I decided to perk up my spirits by reliving some of my favorite moments together during this trip, as April was the last time I saw him. I can't believe it's already been over 4 months now. I know I *just* posted about being in Chicago, but I realized I hadn't posted any pictures from our trip, and wanted to post some for you now!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/140/dsc0563yd.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/1015/dsc0563yd.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cherry trees in the park<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/dsc0579u.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/808/dsc0579u.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Buckingham Fountain. Strangely empty on this cloudy day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/51/dsc0590ms.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/1972/dsc0590ms.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Casual outfit for the day, paired with my favorite tan platform sneakers from ALDO.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/805/dsc0592o.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/6421/dsc0592o.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ugliest sweater ever. I love it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/842/dsc0595e.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/4452/dsc0595e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful bib necklace by ALDO. Dig the straight lines of the cut outs paired with the curve of the bib.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/809/dsc0598z.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/3544/dsc0598z.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My satchel in my favorite color.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/845/dsc0607e.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/9651/dsc0607e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Incredible fields of tulips near S Lakeshore Drive.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/819/dsc0612ix.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/2070/dsc0612ix.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cloudy horizon on the waterfront.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/dsc0619zw.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/2417/dsc0619zw.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No photoshop here! The water of Lake Michigan was actually this beautiful turquoise. Crazy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/513/dsc0631s.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/7464/dsc0631s.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It had to be done-- the bean!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/dsc0633uu.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/43/dsc0633uu.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/521/dsc0642ed.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/111/dsc0642ed.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We got a good deal on the Hilton on Michigan Avenue. The interior was really breathtaking-- very ornate and vintage looking.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/600/dsc0662pn.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/3154/dsc0662pn.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/692/dsc0663pn.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/8954/dsc0663pn.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/dsc0668ht.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/3296/dsc0668ht.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/19/dsc0696v.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/751/dsc0696v.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We also went to the top of the Sears Tower. I refuse to call it Willis Tower-- lame! Look at that water!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/546/dsc0702fh.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/4776/dsc0702fh.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/217/dsc0732kv.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/8702/dsc0732kv.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had to go to in the Skydeck boxes, of course.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/404/dsc0738t.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/9404/dsc0738t.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even though your rational brain knows it's quite safe, the experience is still somewhat terrifying! But so cool to look down and see the street below you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/835/dsc0784l.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/82/dsc0784l.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful sunny skyline on our way to the Shedd Aquarium, which while expensive, is a must for any animal/ocean lover like me and was the highlight of my trip.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/210/dsc0831cz.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/6464/dsc0831cz.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful blue poison dart frogs! One of my favorite animals. It took me forever to get this shot because there were so many frogs and they were hopping around so much!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/819/dsc0880q.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/5257/dsc0880q.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pretty insane looking spider crab.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/88/dsc0883f.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/1777/dsc0883f.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Color-blocked shrimp :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/259/dsc0903l.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/2127/dsc0903l.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We paid extra for the jellyfish exhibit-- aren't they gorgeous?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/641/dsc0905ig.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img641.imageshack.us/img641/7076/dsc0905ig.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/534/dsc0906ug.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/5785/dsc0906ug.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/31/dsc0912cq.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/3682/dsc0912cq.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/502/dsc0933x.jpg/" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/7553/dsc0933x.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Look at these cuties! Yet another of my favorite animals.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SWEATER </b>Aztec Shawl Sweater, Forever 21+ | <b>SHIRT </b>White V-neck Tee, Forever 21+ | <b>JEANS </b>Dark skinnies, Eloquii | <b>SHOES </b>Tan Wedge Sneakers, ALDO | <b>BAG </b>Green Satchel, H&M | <b>NECKLACE </b>Geometric Black & Gold Bib Necklace, ALDO</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Overall, although I had a blast, I was a bit unsatisfied with what I saw of Chicago. I feel like we did a lot of touristy things and the areas we visited seemed deserted. I wished we could have had more of a locals experience and see where hip Chicagoans hang out. We stayed pretty much in the touristy areas and the city seemed so large and spread out, it was difficult to decide where to go and explore in such a short time period. But I know next time, I'll do a lot more research. And for sure, go to the Field Museum. One of my favorite bloggers, Chaplin from <a href="http://www.minipennyblog.com/">Mini Penny</a> (who also happens to be from my town in Ohio), LOVES Chicago and always has amazing posts about her experiences in Chicago, events she is invited to, amazing outfit photos, and lots of ideas about where to explore in the city. If you ever go there, I highly suggest you check out her blog!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-89251299629757967402012-08-15T18:03:00.010-07:002012-08-15T18:57:08.642-07:00#41 The Versatile Blogger Award<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yA9Jsv3nmWE/UCpq6VkZiMI/AAAAAAAABpg/djTo5dcpQcY/s1600/Award+versitle-blogger-2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 230px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yA9Jsv3nmWE/UCpq6VkZiMI/AAAAAAAABpg/djTo5dcpQcY/s1600/Award+versitle-blogger-2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Good evening, babely babes of the internet! I am really stoked and flattered to have received "The Versatile Blogger Award" from the lovely CL at <a href="http://curvyladiesrule.blogspot.com/">Curvy Ladies Rule</a>. Thanks CL! You are awesome!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div><b>Okay, here are the rules:</b></div><div><ol><li>Thank the Blogger who nominated you.</li><li>Include a link to their site.</li><li>Include the award image in your post.</li><li>Give 7 random facts about yourself.</li><li>Nominate other Bloggers for the award.</li><li>When nominating, include a link to their site.</li><li>Let other Bloggers know they have been nominated.</li></ol><b><div><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Seven Random Facts</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRdxrRZDzx-24ne7KtvaFolgcV8wyCHW6qEByTOt2A3oG0xEgiliDk3x6dTumFWeZZQWapS8J23K9H3us3OvX-0QYiJQZLGmh3NaYHBe02jaR3Yd2WfAe5xcS6kmrHozSZpshvO8-EFMnt/s400/4512_575319413259_655036_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5777076563403432546" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I can play like 5 instruments pretty mediocrely. </div><div style="text-align: center;">However, I'm decent at guitar and I love to write songs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sIbG1iE3oCxxX8oXBC_Cj8x50fSjnT8iissvDHfFJ84pzyNEU97rXpo3nbKRthCrjc2ASxnmSyn1-0YNv1tzIGt8UsTDoEOU7FwhYAMMsdwU7VSq4w-9fD-Cp2PTklKdfSt7zUAX9m8/s1600/sushi1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can pound down some sushi. It's my favorite food. Spicy tuna rolls are LOVE.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.travelvivi.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Berlin_1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have been to Berlin more times than I can count.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have an awesome German boyfriend who hopefully will be moving to the US soon!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto;"><b><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-RSNAP6MHIKkTNDFaXmvqmszWAhrgJoapZmf8gQpwIMrcLxSdpeMM0G3kIDcvUamB10xxoa_BDrkuEhQnNTlZByi1PDll55ODW7_6N0hBJW5RFp0BNN5BE3pXVyrZEi37UhOQtzyJwNo/s400/12754_592294709629_4102733_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5777074828673574194" /></b></span><div style="text-align: center; ">I am the silliest, goofiest, weirdest person on the planet.</div><div style="text-align: center; ">I love making weird faces and doing funny voices to try to make people laugh.</div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto;"><b><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 289px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bWe-AAC9t3ujUXLxa7i63Ti9e3wZESFLxV9st_tDTO7ni6H2lEZUvBnkJWb-n1jUz5DNW903GEK47wbxy6PyaCxb1HCU9Dbzf5AI1DwVHHuZMS2ceiaBR7pl1pt0x0WbmrmhM1Iy3qhu/s400/73030_650828916659_776323_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5777074612188395778" /></b></span></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Halloween is my FAVORITE FAVORITE holiday. Borderline obsessive.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My best costumes recently have been a Clockwork Orange lady, Poison Ivy, and Jessica Rabbit.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPktNjFeL9YXv17QtFV123Hp_fRFGZDqqprZtNplYi70xiaZRC76gyHjKRj-U26jCH3W8z9szjmHx_8ZC9IkOO0c-Ww1jxM0FXatvcTHaADuEGdplmmqVT_XdFHH7cDBJVTifFZfL2qMGl/s400/188_520278061569_484_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5777073393094536162" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I used to dye my hair black. YIKES.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 435px;" src="http://www.projectaware.org/sites/default/files/White_shark.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /><div style="text-align: center;">I love sharks but I'm absolutely terrified of deep water. And heights.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>And the nominees are...</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><a href="http://www.minipennyblog.com/">Minipenny</a> - I have been following this girl for a long time way back when we both lived in a little place called Columbus, Ohio. This gorgeous gal with two-tone hair writes from Chicago, and her blog is filled with amazing outfit posts, cool fashion meets cinema features, and creative DIYs. I am so proud of her because her blog has brought her so much success and opportunities. She is all about body acceptance and she is sassy as hell! Love her!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://theylikemebetterblonde.blogspot.com/">They Like Me Better Blond</a> - I just think this girl is downright beautiful. Her blond hair is absolutely perfect and her outfits are so bright and colorful. I think her style and mine have a lot in common.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.bonjourgazel.com/">Bonjour Gazel</a> - Gazel has great style and she is a devoted blogger. So many outfit posts! I love that I can always check out her blog and see something new. She is a super outspoken member of the fat acceptance movement and I really admire and respect her. Not to mention she's one of the sweetest, cutest girls in the world!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://hippopotamuslee.blogspot.com/">Hippopotamuslee</a> - She is just cute as pie and seriously one of most creative, talented, and artistic people I've followed online. I love her nail posts, her art, and her style!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.stickysweetdanish.com/">Sticky Sweet Danish</a> - A fellow curvaceous redhead, I love how many of her outfits combine cheerful and dark elements. She has such a great flair for both unique and classy style.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://alliemcgev.blogspot.com/">Allie McGevna</a> - This girl's a bombshell. Enough said.</div><div><br /><br /></div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-53551250302630298752012-08-13T20:09:00.011-07:002012-08-13T21:04:42.298-07:00#40 - Love Is In The AirAllow me to start off by saying that I have an awesome brother. He is super smart and stylish, not to mention that he makes me crack up laughing until I pretty much pee myself. He's definitely one of the funniest people I know. He's only about 2 years older than me, but he had a big influence on me growing up-- I was such a copycat and I wanted to be just like him! I was always stealing his cool vintage t-shirts that he got from thrift stores (to his dismay), I learned to played guitar soon after he bought his first, and I was constantly bugging him for new music to download and books to read. He just proposed to his girlfriend of several years and I couldn't be happier for him-- they are perfect for each other! So this weekend, our family headed up to Chicago to meet her family for the first time. <div><br /></div><div>For an event like this, or really any event, I am just loving dresses by the amazing designer Adrianna Papell. Her straight sizes go up to a 16 and she also has a plus-sized line that is beautiful and goes up to a 24. I have found my favorite AP pieces at Nordstroms, but her line is also available at Dilliards. I think this bright and whimsical dress is 1) extremely reflective of my personality and 2) perfect for a gorgeous outdoor soiree in Chicago! My soon-to-be sister-in-law's family decorated the yard so perfectly-- it had DIY and Etsy and magic written all over it!</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/607/dsc0124001.jpg/"><img src="http://img607.imageshack.us/img607/3682/dsc0124001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love that parking lot shot!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/571/dsc0125001.jpg/"><img src="http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/3473/dsc0125001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm wearing Schiap (bright pink lipstick) by NARS which just adds to all the bright goodness.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/dsc0121001.jpg/"><img src="http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/5225/dsc0121001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love my color-blocked bag by Aldo. I take it everywhere!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/dsc0149001q.jpg/"><img src="http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/9203/dsc0149001q.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The beautiful bar decorated with handmade paper decorations!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/dsc0151001.jpg/"><img src="http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/1466/dsc0151001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">All the drinks were served in mason jars. ETSY magic!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/13/dsc0135001.jpg/"><img src="http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5945/dsc0135001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful table set up inside with flowers, pies, customized cookies and beautiful pictures of the lovely couple.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/571/dsc0143001.jpg/"><img src="http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/5863/dsc0143001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous tablescape.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/33/dsc0145001.jpg/"><img src="http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/4757/dsc0145001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">So much detail in every single part of the table.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/43/dsc0147001.jpg/"><img src="http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/9298/dsc0147001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful flowers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/dsc0157001.jpg/"><img src="http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/853/dsc0157001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A shot at the end of the evening. Such a romantic, beautiful night!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>DRESS/BELT</b> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/adrianna-papell-print-chiffon-day-dress/3265104?origin=keywordsearch&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=0">Cap Sleeve Striped Dress, Adrianna Papell via Nordstroms</a> (sold out in plus size) | <b>SHOES</b> Black Faux Suede Wedges, Target | <b>BAG </b>Black & White Color Blocked Shoulder Bag, ALDO</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was impressed by every detail and the thought that went into planning this wonderful occasion. I sort of thought we would all just be sitting at a dining room inside, eating family style, and I was really blown away by the effort of my sister-in-law's family. They made quite an impression on me. Above all, each and every one of her family members were so lovely and made us feel so welcome. I know my brother was a little bit nervous, but clearly it was a successful meeting of two awesome families! Now on to plan what I'll wear for the wedding...!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-67102348660444169612012-08-12T19:22:00.005-07:002012-08-12T19:41:09.327-07:00#39 - Amazing Coupon Codes for Fall! I promise an outfit post is coming soon, but I couldn't let the weekend go without reminding you about an amazing deal from <a href="http://www.eloquii.com/">Eloquii</a> you can get tonight. All new styles are 40% off (no code needed). There is also a code you can use when you check out (the code is "991") to get an ADDITIONAL 20% off. <b>That's a total of 60% off Eloquii's new styles PLUS free shipping</b>! But it all ends at midnight, so get your order in now! Here's a peak from my shopping cart below. I can't believe I just bought an amazing sheath dress originally priced for $109 for only $43.60! BOOYAH. As you can see, I'm pretty excited :)<div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/715/desktop3g.jpg/"><img src="http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/2839/desktop3g.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /></div><div>Other codes you might want to use tonight:</div><div><br /></div><div>Forever 21 - Code is "TZ6TQN" for 10% off and free shipping.</div><div><br /></div><div>ASOS - Code is "New 20" for 20% off and free shipping.</div><div><br /></div><div>Old Navy - Code is "ONSCHOOL" for 20% off and free shipping.</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy shopping, ladies! And remember-- scouring the web for coupons means you never, EVER have to pay full retail :)</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-51511531620468413222012-08-06T20:16:00.009-07:002012-08-06T20:40:04.337-07:00#38 - A Special Request: PRETTY PLEASE<div style="text-align: left;">As you may or may not know, education is REALLY, really important to me. The academic achievement gap in America has expanded to be mind-blowing large-- this ultimately meaning that American children in poverty, especially children of color, are performing much lower on standardized tests and other academic skills than their middle to upper class counterparts. This is not the fault of the children, but rather our infuriatingly inequitable educational system that does not properly serve the needs of children who live in poverty. Low expectations for these children creates low results. Fortunately, there are solutions.</div><div><br /></div><div>For the past two years, I worked in a college prepatory charter school in Columbus, Ohio serving approximately 300 students with 85% of students living in high poverty. My school outperformed Columbus Public schools on most of the standardized tests in 5th-8th grade. It earned the EPIC Award which is a national teaching award for outstanding growth in one year, winning the school approximately $30,000. My school was the only effectively rated school in the Linden community in Columbus. It's an amazing school and is doing amazing things for that community. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><b>Today, I ask you to please help my former employer, earn $10,000 from Target. IT ONLY TAKES 10 SECONDS OF YOUR TIME AND COSTS NO MONEY.</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>DIRECTIONS:</b></i></div><div>1. <a href="https://givewith.target.com/schools/98267?ref=feed&fb_source=feed&refid=52">Click to get to the "Give With Target" home page!</a></div><div>2. Allow the app to access your Facebook.</div><div>3. Vote for KIPP.</div><div>4. You can delete the app immediately (your vote will still count) by going to your Facebook, clicking Account Settings --> Apps --> and then delete the Target app.</div><div>5. Please leave a comment if you voted so I can give you a shout out on my next blog post and link back to your blog. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-12821630946668632002012-08-03T19:48:00.009-07:002012-08-03T20:47:22.794-07:00#37 A Fresh Start<b>"Living at risk is jumping off the cliff and building your wings on the way down." - Ray Bradbur</b>y<div><br /></div>This quote means a lot to me these days. My first official day of my new job (I'm a teacher at a school in Harlem) began this Wednesday and it has been a rollercoaster of a week. I've had this dream for so long to move to New York City and it's all finally coming together: the apartment, the neighborhood, the city, the job. But to be real, it hasn't all been sunshine and roses. <div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's a hard transition moving across states where you are essentially alone, beginning a new job-- albeit, an amazing job-- and feeling like you're starting from scratch both professionally and personally. I am really glad I'm here, but my passion for New York and for teaching hasn't stopped this from being one of the most challenging things I've ever gone through. Ultimately, it's essential to take risks in life to feel like you're really living, and to give yourself a chance to experience something new. You feel fear, feel excitement, question EVERYTHING, miss stability yet appreciate a new world, experience the heartache of loss and loneliness, see things in a completely different light. And in New York you walk around with your jaw dragging on the sidewalk, in awe of everything and everyone all around you, your eyes ever-gazing upward. It's up and down and up and down and so on. I wouldn't change it for the world, but damn-- it's hard and it hurts sometimes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/268/20120802.jpg/"><img src="http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/9676/20120802.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:78%;">A few pictures from my first day at work at our retreat at Long Beach, NJ. Bonfires and the ocean always make me very introspective.</span></div><br /></div><div>As shallow as it may seem, in times where I feel insecure, I sometimes turn to fashion to help lift my spirits and give me confidence. Something about knowing I look my very best, especially when starting a new job, helps me feel like<i> I can do this, I can conquer my fears and the world</i>! Anyone who has ever worn towering high heels knows this feeling well. Retail therapy, indeed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today was a big day because not only did I get to meet the CEO and founder of our network of schools, but I also got to meet several hundred other teachers who teach at my school and our sister schools! Looking my best was key, especially with such an intelligent, youthful, talented, and intimidatingly fashionable group of educators! We were told to dress casual, but for me business casual or even professional is what helps me feel my best and I prefer to err on the side of overdressed rather than under.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/571/24992790138553710319381.png/"><img src="http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/8876/24992790138553710319381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes, shamefully in the bathroom. But I was feeling positive and loving my outfit.</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/193/24992752203590611619381.jpg/"><img src="http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/5406/24992752203590611619381.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">After some inspiring speeches, feeling a renewed sense of positivity.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/256/dsc0105001.jpg/"><img src="http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/3032/dsc0105001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not so fresh after a happy hour, walking in 90 degree heat, and 8 hours of profesh development.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/195/dsc0110001.jpg/"><img src="http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/3796/dsc0110001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Every teacher should have an apple necklace! </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>TOP</b> Grey Cowl Neck Top, Banana Republic | <b>SKIRT</b> Textured Neon Yellow Pencil Skirt, Eloquii | <b>NECKLACE</b> Apple Pendant, H&M | <b>SHOES </b>Green Suede Flats, J Crew<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was honestly going to give away this top because it shrunk in the wash and looks ridiculous with pants, but I discovered this brand new outfit rushing to work this morning and threw it all together really fast. Has that ever happened to you? Somehow I feel impressed with myself for putting together a fierce outfit in record time. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/803/fashion.jpg/"><img src="http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/8196/fashion.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Also, I had to comment on Eloquii's Holiday 2012 Lookbook that has been released on a few blogs in the past few weeks. WOW! Eloquii just keeps getting better and better, and it's such a great option for those of us who have to wear business professional every day, not to mention how impressed I've been with the quality of the clothing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are a ton of basics that I can add my own eclectic pieces and accessories to so that they are uniquely me, and also a ton of beautiful pieces that really stand out and work on their own. This collection is really making me drool, and also lament my four-figure rent in New York. Gold sequin skirts with blush blouses, new colored skinnies, and how about that gray dress with the leather look panels? I cannot wait to rock it all as soon as its released! I have preemptively purchased ramen in preparation of this dent in my bank account...</div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-71609358491264668002012-07-31T19:51:00.004-07:002012-07-31T20:27:03.986-07:00#36 - Something Amazing (2)I haven't done a Something Amazing post in a really long time (try <a href="http://zezaftig.blogspot.com/2011/07/10-something-amazing-etsy-living.html">almost a year ago</a> today!), but I'm always discovering incredible things online. I really appreciate the opportunity to share some of my treasures with you. A few of my favorite blogs like <a href="http://honeybeeinthecity.blogspot.com/">Little Chief Honey Bee</a> and <a href="http://minipennyblog.com/">MiniPenny</a> write similar entries and I get a lot of inspiration and ideas from them. Leave some comments and let me know what you were diggin' the most.<div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/267/desktop1x.jpg/"><img src="http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/4563/desktop1x.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /></div><div>These amazing iPhone covers from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopZeroGravity">Zero Gravity</a> via Etsy. Makes me wanna upgrade from my Android. They also have awesome laptop and iPad covers too.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/407/jacketz.jpg/"><img src="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/5961/jacketz.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>This incredible denim vest! It's like Froot Loops meets stegosaurus meets punk rock. No idea where it came from or who made it. If anyone has the artist/designer, let me know and I'll credit.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:130%;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:130%;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:180%;"><b>"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px; ">It offered, quite simply, the same tripe that Hollywood has always pushed on women—that their sexual desires are only acceptable when they’re safely tethered to a narrative</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px; "> of true, monogamous love."</span></b></span></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://storyboard.tumblr.com/post/28408827104/girls-to-magic-mike-less-heart-more-flesh-the">This incredible article</a> from Storyboard about the movie <i>Magic Mike</i>, and how it enforces antiquated societal laws about women and their sexuality.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gCSc6E4yG9s" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're a huge Batman nerd like I am, you will love this video. It's an eerie piece of proof that Heath Ledger's voice as the Joker was inspired by Tom Waits. Fast forward to about 2:15 and you'll see the resemblance. Crazy!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/screenshot20120731at111.png/"><img src="http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/2377/screenshot20120731at111.png" border="0" /></a></div><br /></div><div>This really simple <a href="http://www.harpersbazaar.com.au/fashion/style-network/a-pair-a-spare-diy-lilac-ombre-mini-skirt.htm">ombre DIY tutorial</a>. I need to find some white denim and then try it out. Really simple directions that are easy to follow.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/9/screenshot20120731at111.png/"><img src="http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/2377/screenshot20120731at111.png" border="0" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This stunning statement necklace from <a href="http://www.seraphimstore.com.au/collections/jewellery/products/altissima-necklace">Seraphim</a> in Australia, which makes accessories and clothing for women sizes AU18-26. Combines the Aztec and bib necklace trend in one. Love it! When I get my first paycheck, I know I'm gonna hit this up. And I believe the model is also the designer. Isn't she beautiful?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/desktop2e.jpg/"><img src="http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/9154/desktop2e.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><br /></div>These unbelievable shoes from J Crew. When did J Crew get so fun and funky? Wish an unlimited budget, all of these shoes would be mine! Light neon green suede pumps? SWOON. And those glitter "psychedelic" oxfords by Creatures of the Wind are to die for. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And this concludes today's episode of Something Amazing! If you know something that should be posted on my next episode, please leave it in the comments box! My first day of work is tomorrow and I am so crazy excited and nervous. Can't wait to meet everyone and get started. Happy Hump Day, y'all!</div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-11017924822942782182012-07-28T07:58:00.006-07:002012-07-28T08:20:58.871-07:00#35 Re-EducationThank you to everyone for your support for what will be called "fat shaming incident #87"-- sadly this is not the first time this has happened to me. But after having a good sleep on it, I am still feeling really proud that I called to let this woman know how I felt. Not just a few minutes after my blog was posted, I received two phone calls from this woman and immediately my mind went to the worst possible scenario. Did she call to cuss me out? To tell me how fat I am? I was a little bit nervous to listen to the voicemails.<div><br /></div><div>To my pleasant surprise, she left two voicemails apologizing. She said she never meant to make me feel like I needed to lose weight and expressed her guilt about the anger she'd caused me. She was actually really sweet. We even texted back and forth and talked a little about our mutual body issues-- what a strange but serendipitous interaction with a stranger. And I know next time, she'll think twice before she hands out her card to a proud curvaceous woman. It's true-- you can never really educate or expand someone's mind if you're not willing to express your thoughts, feelings, and opinions, albeit politely. </div><div><br /></div><div>Below is what I wore last night. I'm especially excited to show you my new glasses, also bought from <a href="http://store.fabulousfannys.com/catalog">Fabulous Fanny's</a> in the East Village. I'm kind of a hater and don't want to share my cool glasses secret with anyone, but... you can buy some of their frames online. ACK. Ok. Secret is out. There are so many hot bloggers that need to share their amazing glasses secrets, too! Hint hint. They're a little expensive, but they're really well made and have some frames that are really flattering on wider faces like mine.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/545/24504131260378108619381.png/"><img src="http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/5660/24504131260378108619381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love the amber and clear! Just clear alone didn't look right on me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/855/24515087221989080319381.png/"><img src="http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/8991/24515087221989080319381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The amber is almost the exact same color as my hair!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/827/24504079582358523819381.png/"><img src="http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/6871/24504079582358523819381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Top part of my outfit. Apartment is still in "just moved in" status one month later. Yikes!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/221/24504054328454139519381.png/"><img src="http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/8645/24504054328454139519381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Bottom half. LOVE the stripes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/441/24504095623893602419381.png/"><img src="http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/2433/24504095623893602419381.png" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Really old Sam Edelman shoes that have been doctored a little.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/9716/24515122964170047019381.png" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A pretty crapstastic picture of my necklace! Doesn't do it justice!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/24509928363125715519381.png/"><img src="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/1240/24509928363125715519381.png" border="0" /></a><br />I love this place!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>DRESS</b> Striped Black & Tan Maxi Dress, Target | <b>BELT</b> Braided Cognac Stretchy Belt, Target | <b>NECKLACE</b> Bejeweled Elephant Pendant, Forever 21 | <b>SHOES</b> Rhinestone Leather Flats, Sam Edelman</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-52506374117474600732012-07-27T19:00:00.005-07:002012-07-27T19:16:53.179-07:00#34 Standing Up to Fat ShamingMy hands are still shaking angrily a little as I write this, dear reader. But I hope that you will read my brief story and share it with others, to perhaps inspire more beautiful women to stand up to fat shaming.<div><br /></div><div>I was at the grocery store tonight, and a woman in front of me, after commenting on my selection of granola bars, turned around and offered me her card, telling me that she was a personal trainer and I could call her any time. This small, but presumptuous action implies that she 1) thinks I'm fat, 2) is outwardly telling me I'm fat, 3) thinks there is something wrong with my body that should be fixed 4) assumes that I don't take care of my body or work out/already have a personal trainer, and 5) that she would be "willing" to be the one to fix my body. Really? I mean-- REALLY? I'm a teacher, so does that mean every time I meet someone stupid I can hand them my card and offer them an education to fix their mind?</div><div><br /></div><div>I politely took the card without a word. Then, my forehead started burning, and I felt the anger and sadly, the shame, come rushing, blood red, to the front of my face. I didn't say a word, but as I walked out of the store, bags in hand, I fumbled to find the card she had given me and called the number on the phone. Straight to voicemail. But I left a message:</div><div><br /></div><div>"My name is Sarah and I just met you at the grocery store. Thanks for your card, but I'm going to politely decline. Instead, I want to give you some constructive feedback. Offering me personal training when you don't even know me is offensive and implies there's something wrong with my body. I want you to understand that just because my body doesn't look like how YOU think it should look, doesn't mean that there's anything wrong with it or that you have the right to judge my body or offer me ways to 'fix' myself. It's offensive and presumptuous to assume that I need or want personal training, and although it might be hard for you to understand, I actually am quite happy with the way my body looks. Just because I'm not a size 4, doesn't mean I'm not beautiful, and doesn't mean I'm not healthy or content with the way I am. I wish you all the best with your personal training career, and I hope this feedback is helpful for you." *Click*</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm learning to love my body and I won't let someone shame me into feeling like there's something wrong with it. Those kinds of remarks trigger so many emotions in me-- shame, anger, rage, sadness, defeat. But I won't let someone shame me anymore. It took a lot of courage to call her, but I'm glad I did, and I hope that she won't continue shaming others because they don't fit her cookie cutter model of what beautiful is. Please share/reblog my small story with others so that we can be reminded that we are beautiful and together, we can stand up against fat shaming. I never would have or could have done this without the inspiration of the beautiful fatshionable women of the blogosphere. Thank you to all of you who continue blogging. You inspire me to love my self, and to stand up for what's right.</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-42510157271998584342012-07-23T15:47:00.004-07:002012-07-23T21:09:39.827-07:00#33 Amagansett, East HamptonHappy Monday, dear readers! I was lucky enough this weekend to spend some time at a family friend's beautiful home in Amagansett, which is an area of East Hampton, New York. It was certainly a luxurious and relaxing experience and I was so grateful for the opportunity to see this area of New York which I have heard so much about. <div><br /></div><div>My friend Ellie, my brother and his fiancee, and I all took a train from Penn Station on Saturday morning and spent the day at the beach with my family, grilling out at the patio, and relaxing together. Ellie and I were even able to get a quick pedicure nearby-- I am now the proud owner of some royal blue toes! The next morning we spent some time in the pool and sadly bid adieu to our generous family friend and his beautiful home. Of course, I couldn't spend the entire weekend without capturing the beauty and charm of this place on film.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/dsc0050001.jpg/"><img src="http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/3125/dsc0050001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">We ate lunch at a place called, well, "Lunch."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/268/dsc0056001.jpg/"><img src="http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/7382/dsc0056001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My tasty tuna roll. For some reason, I'm not a huge fan of lobster.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/651/dsc0059001.jpg/"><img src="http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/2129/dsc0059001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A beautiful hibiscus flower.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/dsc0062001.jpg/"><img src="http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/1361/dsc0062001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A view from the road in Amagansett.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/27/dsc0066001.jpg/"><img src="http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/2825/dsc0066001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can see the ocean from our family friend's patio.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/256/dsc0067001.jpg/"><img src="http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2351/dsc0067001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The lovely lower deck, hot tub, and pool.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/692/dsc0074001.jpg/"><img src="http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/2138/dsc0074001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The outdoor dinner table!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/7/dsc0080001.jpg/"><img src="http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/4200/dsc0080001.jpg" border="0" /></a>'</div><div style="text-align: center;">The pool is outside, but is also halfway underneath a sun roof. So perfect.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/99/dsc0094001.jpg/"><img src="http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/4962/dsc0094001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Make-up free in the sunshine!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/404/dsc0095001.jpg/"><img src="http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2334/dsc0095001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Trying to look fierce...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/96/dsc0097001.jpg/"><img src="http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/20/dsc0097001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>DRESS</b> Braided Strap Orange Maxi Dress, Lane Bryant | <b>SHOES</b> Black Tassel Flat Sandals, H&M</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A simple outfit for a simple day of relaxation. Perfection! In retrospect, I would have accessorized a lot more with this really bright orange dress, but the heat makes my skin react from cheap jewelry, which sadly is most of the jewelry I own. Does anyone know of any good places to get inexpensive jewelry that's good for sensitive skin?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you ever have the opportunity to go to the Hamptons, even just for 24 hours like I did, I highly recommend it. I hope someday to be back, and also to head even further east, the most eastern point of the USA: Montauk. Of course, one of my favorite parts of the trip was the conductor of our train who announced the Montauk stop with the most perfect New York/Brooklyn accent. So far, I am loving NYC so much-- thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of my move!</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-40749289445495635962012-07-17T21:22:00.009-07:002012-07-17T22:33:20.801-07:00#32 Ze Zaftig Explores I: St. John The Divine & East Village<div style="text-align: left;">Because I'm doing so much exploring and photography, I wanted to take a break away from fashion for a moment to share some of my new life with you in a photoblog series that I am going to call "Ze Zaftig Explores!" Moving to New York has really breathed new life into me and I'm constantly blown away by all the things I'm able to see and do during my time here. In this series, I'll share a handful of photos with captions so you can see what I'm up to!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/152/dsc0161001.jpg/"><img src="http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/6070/dsc0161001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is my brownstone. It's such a beautiful place!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/696/dsc0164001.jpg/"><img src="http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/1706/dsc0164001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My neighbor brownstones.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/267/dsc0171001.jpg/"><img src="http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/8372/dsc0171001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Definitely on my top 10 of reasons why I love Harlem: the graffiti!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/dsc0184001.jpg/"><img src="http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/3544/dsc0184001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Morningside Park/Pond near Columbia. Beautiful little oasis.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/69/dsc0199001.jpg/"><img src="http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/4889/dsc0199001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I visited St. John The Divine, the cathedral-- one of the biggest in the world!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/152/dsc0237001.jpg/"><img src="http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/8708/dsc0237001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My absolute favorite statue in the entire cathedral.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/232/dsc0242001.jpg/"><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/3608/dsc0242001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">One of the smaller rooms for worship in the cathedral.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/220/dsc0262001.jpg/"><img src="http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/5273/dsc0262001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A peaceful sanctuary behind the cathedral, called the Bible Gardens.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/dsc0269001.jpg/"><img src="http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/9471/dsc0269001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">No big deal-- peacocks just hang out in garden. Really tame peacocks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/254/dsc0276001.jpg/"><img src="http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/3166/dsc0276001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Such a beautiful bird!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/72/dsc0026001.jpg/"><img src="http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/8515/dsc0026001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some kind of storage or garbage block mural. Art is everywhere. This was in the East Village.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/7596/dsc0027001.jpg" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">More in the East Village.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/24/dsc0029001.jpg/"><img src="http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4459/dsc0029001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love these multi-colored fire escapes on the of the building on 4th St in the East Village.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/849/dsc0030001.jpg/"><img src="http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/7176/dsc0030001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow: the juxtaposition of her facial express with the sad pile of clothes underneath her.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/585/dsc0037001.jpg/"><img src="http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/4781/dsc0037001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">INCREDIBLE vegetarian samosas at <a href="http://pukknyc.com/">Pukk</a> in the East Village! Made with fake duck.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/232/dsc0038001.jpg/"><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/8817/dsc0038001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Couldn't get a clear shot of my hugely amazing drink, but this is a great view of the restaurant's decor.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/155/dsc0042001.jpg/"><img src="http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/2346/dsc0042001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My green curry with tofu that I am desperate to recreate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/dsc0044001.jpg/"><img src="http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/1826/dsc0044001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">More of the inside. Look at those tiled booths and tables!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/801/dsc0047001.jpg/"><img src="http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/2448/dsc0047001.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A mannequin on the sidewalk in the East Village. Totally normal for a Monday night.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/585/dsc0049001y.jpg/"><img src="http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/551/dsc0049001y.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Indian/Bangladeshi restaurant, lit up like a Christmas tree.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-36472116614058463442012-07-15T16:23:00.009-07:002012-07-17T23:04:12.649-07:00#31 - Bittersweet<div style="text-align: left;">While I wait for a tripod to take outfit pics, I thought I'd show you an old outfit from last summer from my dad's wedding. My beautiful mother passed away from colon cancer in March of 2008 and it's hard to articulate how much her death has affected me. With the pain and sorrow of her loss also came with the joy that my father found love again and is now happily married. It means a lot to me that he has someone to spend his time with and they are always jet setting around the country (and the world), trying new things, staying healthy and active, and enjoying life. These kinds of things are always so bittersweet.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 345px; height: 460px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvfP60BWKBWcKiSoPJUP_YoI4PwN213g5hq2eVm-wFzqvau-v1Mhrsfx2-Bvt0E5TnqnR5JhrmYeWtVHIIMlqtJCP7WZp4AWkJxQ4ZKGJptrMDJG5COkfgt_-xBLQI8FogcOd6j_WroL_/s400/00103.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5765543225961618706" /><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 345px; height: 460px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikNlMRxPOIVLUxJHjXyuzvw5Yi6TnOk_8peRUrjZia7ruzRwSgG5Jp2DMde8JOnhrVGHC6_tbP_6DVJilfamlhxgYp2qivDVZaiwDdPN3KRjE39SBYPHByZySFUX-g7HyYhxprKwDuK1WT/s400/00095.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5765543222601931010" /><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/250x250/9412193.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>DRESS</b> <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/dresses/eveningdinner/PRDOVR~43049/99102343152/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~20+17+4294967097~90~~~~~~~/43049.jsp">Evie Dress</a> in Dusty Shale (on sale for $169 from $225), J Crew| <b>SHOES</b> Glitter Flats, J Crew | <b>NECKLACE</b> Large Charm Necklace, Anthropologie</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">On a lighter note, a friend of a friend last night said I resembled hipster Ariel. I'm going to take that as a compliment! It's a pretty funny internet meme-- if you want to see more, just Google it. The Evie Dress is beautiful and perfect for weddings and other outdoor/daytime occasions, or as bridesmaid dresses if you're planning a wedding. They come in a billion beautiful colors (I wish I had the one in spiced wine or matisse blue)! Goes up to size 20. However, I don't recommend getting glitter shoes from J Crew. The glitter fell off almost completely in about 4-5 months which is ridiculous after paying the hefty price tag.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I thought I'd include two photos of my wonderful mother. I've been told that I look a lot like her and her sister Ruth and they were two incredibly beautiful women. Miss you, Mom. <3</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznRw-_fvozsaDNmgJC5a0rp_Dbrg9x1H2HPwehUvnUqMRiC-yr0whLh9rQ6qI7iJZpz4n2aPti5YjzrK_8-VQe6Y61d8GOTTkR2rfKP1HFihfOovV63SjfsxZH8drqq-BIqaCJGsz3Rj5/s400/429705_3128805012645_469859637_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5765547004754129698" /><div style="text-align: center;">My mom and dad.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4ANWFy7kHcEWzNxMwRqaIiR9SPXcR5Lxp877khdJcD3VAqeDqUg6Ul4iueDRxBTMn5L9VA9qfmAg8KOl5bITqASd4qi3QogY13LmWCcRbMv3LLnNF3quZ5PrNjfNrVDAbTavuJstunlu/s400/426318_3128804092622_236266645_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5765546996355315282" /><div style="text-align: center;">On the right, in the orange dress.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-52643545855745723342012-07-12T22:45:00.006-07:002012-07-12T23:21:15.352-07:00#30 - Welcome to Harlem<div style="text-align: left;">I officially moved to Harlem on July 2 (then had to go back to Cleveland for a family reunion) and in the approximately 10 days I've lived here, I just am so amazed by this city and by my neighborhood. Harlem is a beautiful, vibrant place, and deserves SO much more credit than it is given. The people here have been so welcoming and kind to me in every possible way. I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of this community. I can't wait to start work and get to meet my students in about two short months!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Moving to NYC from Ohio has been quite a lifestyle change. I'm slowly feeling myself turning into an authentic New Yorker (annoyed by tourists, figuring out how not to fall on the Subway, running in heels/wedges to catch a train) and there are some things that have been hard to get used to-- no driving, no public restrooms, and no large sodas! Damn you, Bloomberg. However, there are so many things that I have always loved and am growing to love more and more. Walking everywhere is certainly not convenient, but I'm so amazed by what I see. The subway, too. I get to listen to music now and chill (road-rage free!), I get to be physically active nearly every moment of every day (my body is rejecting it but, soon I'll be used to it!). And the fashion! I'm trying not to be that creepy weirdo staring all slack-jawed at people on the subway, but I'm so inspired by what all different people of all different shapes, sizes, colors, and ages are rocking every single day. I can't help but make mental notes when I see a unique piece, or an accessory worn a certain way, or a color combination that I've never thought of before. It's been a little bit lonely sometimes (not a ton of close friends here... yet) but I have to say that I'm utterly inspired and awed by being here.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope to get a tripod and a remote soon so I can take some real outfit pictures, especially while I'm exploring, but I hope these cell phone pics will do for now!</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 451px; height: 800px;" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7112/7560238398_92fc93b707_c.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 451px; height: 800px;" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8431/7560216594_58c574e588_c.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>DRESS </b>Black Silk Ruffle Wrap Dress, Banana Republic| <b>SHOES</b> All Caps Wedges, Jeffrey Campbell | <b>BAG </b><a href="http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/handbags/shoulder-bags-totes/product/87896312-nickoley/79">Nickoley</a>, ALDO (on sale for $32!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have to pat myself on the back-- er, head-- for what I would like to say was a phenomenal hair day! This dress is my go-to dress when I want to look classy and fierce. You can't see the ruffles too well in the cell phone pics (my bad!), but they add a very feminine touch to this classic silhouette. It's also very "flattering" for every body type, if you're into that kind of thing. BR is definitely a place I like to shop for work-to-evening kind of looks (and they go up to a size 18/20). The bag is my dream-- a pretty classy color-blocked bag that is HUGE. It fits my 13" laptop and pretty much everything and anything else, and still zips! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was wandering around Soho yesterday, checking out some swanky places on and off of Prince Street, doing a little furniture browsing in the beautiful <a href="http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/">Room & Board</a> on Wooster. I popped in to the Miu Miu store inspired by the wonderful <a href="http://nicolettemason.com/">Nicolette Mason </a>and was blown away by the shoes and sunglasses. Maybe after I receive my first paycheck I'll blow a good chunk of it on these absolutely mind-blowing sunglasses:</div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 390px; height: 390px;" src="http://www.miumiu.com/assets/images/products/details/SMU10N_E7SO_F00A2-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><div>If you're gonna live in NYC, you gotta look the part! More adventures forthcoming... </div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-476806658064411392012-06-24T19:55:00.004-07:002012-06-24T20:22:28.025-07:00#29 - BIG News!For a long time, I was keeping the news a secret, but as it is rapidly coming up (less than a week now!) I can't wait to share my big news with you!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium/new-york-city-skyline-frank-van-haalen.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 449px;" src="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium/new-york-city-skyline-frank-van-haalen.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />As of Monday next week, I am officially moving to New York City! I have an apartment and a new teaching job which are both located in Harlem and I am just EXPLODING with excitement. It has been my dream for a very long time to move to NYC. I love the culture, the food, the lifestyle, the people, the fashion, the shopping, the diversity, the museums, the ART, the music, I could just go on and on and on... I love being able to experience so much of what the world has to offer in one incredible city.<br /><br />I am very sad to be leaving my beautiful home and my wonderful friends and family in Ohio but I am so incredibly excited and ready to begin a new journey in New York.<br /><br />I can't wait to shop at RE-Dress in Brooklyn and I hope I am lucky enough to bump into some of the blogosphere's most fashionable and creative curvy NYC bloggers! Happy summer, everyone!SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-90138384660978045962012-06-08T19:25:00.008-07:002012-06-08T19:43:20.249-07:00#28 Swag: Warm and SpikyWhat up beautiful curvy girls of the world! I am almost at 100 followers and that feels pretty stupendous! 9 more followers and I might just do a giveaway or something rad like that. Anyway, while I don't have an awesome outfit post for you, I did want to give you an insight as to what I've recently tucked away in my closet. I made a tasty photo collage which you can see below. I've entitled my swag masterpiece, "Warm and Spiky."<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8vKVsIAi7ZoshkFXVx1cuwI_Tqni8HXHr9Ii9C0wcsXXIem3cRmzjUqzoLxke44_si-w-BdYMFp6pBKK8npfBcpVrHP26OVelK2nk9p-hQgz5Gv1uMDT704A2g8ZDTGMYUorkEk31WZ1/s1600/Desktop.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 509px; height: 339px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8vKVsIAi7ZoshkFXVx1cuwI_Tqni8HXHr9Ii9C0wcsXXIem3cRmzjUqzoLxke44_si-w-BdYMFp6pBKK8npfBcpVrHP26OVelK2nk9p-hQgz5Gv1uMDT704A2g8ZDTGMYUorkEk31WZ1/s400/Desktop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5751857957821952514" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAF0xCvG9hIgArR8PhEfmEqNEDReE3lv6asuXzbSf1zAdPWpkk2UQnV6BppDmjelkTAtpwb5ShC7ThgfBb9AHbDTwWN6VOYVDPbbCAJr_jM6RSOyk91tqlTi0lfA91JgK0w2oDQ9-tSzg/s1600/Desktop1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 506px; height: 338px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAF0xCvG9hIgArR8PhEfmEqNEDReE3lv6asuXzbSf1zAdPWpkk2UQnV6BppDmjelkTAtpwb5ShC7ThgfBb9AHbDTwWN6VOYVDPbbCAJr_jM6RSOyk91tqlTi0lfA91JgK0w2oDQ9-tSzg/s400/Desktop1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5751857964123318866" border="0" /></a>From top to bottom moving left to right:<br /><br />Fashion to Figure, <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/catalog/clothing/plus-size-tops/arachnid-blouse-with-lattice-back.html">Arachnid Top</a><br />Lane Bryant, Braided Maxi Dress in Orange (sold out in all colors)<br />Eloquii, <a href="http://www.eloquii.com/Classic-Fit-Skinny-Jeans/28515002,default,pd.html?start=3&cgid=eloquii_shop-the-collection_jeans">Red Denim Skinny Jeans</a><br />Fashion to Figure, <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/catalog/clothing/plus-size-tops/arsenic-and-lace-chiffon-button-blouse.html">Arsenic and Lace Chiffon Button Blouse</a> (available in Mocha only)<br />ALDO, <a href="http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/sale/handbags/sale-cross-body-bags/87857874-larose/71">LaRose Purse</a> (on sale for $13.99!)<br />ALDO, <a href="http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/women/shoes/moccasins-loafers/90516579-blye/96">Blye Flats</a><br />H&M, Pink Caged Wedge (not available online)<br />Sam Edelman, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sam-edelman-beatrix-flat/3158602?origin=keywordsearch&fashionColor=&resultback=129">Beatrix Flats</a> (on sale for $89.99 at Nordstrom!)<br /><br />As you can see, warm colors and interesting patterns and details are really catching my eye. I've always been a fan of spiky things (most likely because punk music really changed me at an early age!) and I'm really into unusual patterns. The citrus pattern on my purse is so cute and perfect for warmer weather-- ALDO has this pattern in several different styles on their site, all on sale! I'm also really pleased with my first Fashion to Figure purchase. The items I got were fabulous and for the most part, fit well. I even got the coral dress Gabi Gregg featured in her <a href="http://www.gabifresh.com/2012/05/gabifresh-makeover.html">makeover post</a> and it looks hottt with three t's. Keep it curvy, ladies!SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-74095061434835660952012-06-03T10:49:00.006-07:002012-06-03T11:26:17.547-07:00#27 NamasteI had a truly incredible inexperience this weekend... I got to go to my very first Indian Hindu/Christian wedding. The saris and the outfits: jaw dropping. You would not believe! I need to invest in a smaller camera to hide in my purse for fancier events (my giant Nikon wouldn't fit in a clutch!) so that I can take more photos to show you of the events I get to go to. Everyone from both sides of the family were so colorfully dressed and inclusive of everyone.<br /><br />I had a blast dancing to Lil John and Indian pop, eating incredible Indian food and funfetti wedding cake, sipping on mango lassis, watching two bea-you-tee-ful ceremonies (Hindu and Christian), watching one of my favorite co-workers in a tradition Indian outfit riding in an Indian horse and carriage, and spending much of the day outside on one of the most beautiful days we've had all year, being a witness to two people uniting together who are very much in love. We definitely made some lifelong memories last night.<br /><br />Although I wish I'd been able to wear a sari, I am pretty happy with this vintage reproductive dress I wore.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/411/front02.jpg/"><img src="http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/4659/front02.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/front03n.jpg/"><img src="http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/9858/front03n.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/138/front05x.jpg/"><img src="http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/3427/front05x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/407/hair01.jpg/"><img style="width: 612px; height: 459px;" src="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3392/hair01.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/266/shoes01.jpg/"><img src="http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/4766/shoes01.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/706/side01x.jpg/"><img src="http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/70/side01x.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">DRESS</span> <a href="http://bettiepageclothing.com/node/1021">Alika Pencil Dress</a>, Bettie Page Clothing | <b>SHOES</b> Leather Asymmetrical Wedges, Urban Outfitters <span style="font-weight: bold;">| </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">BRACELET </span>Ribbon Crystal Bracelet, The Limited<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I stole my hairstyle from a link on <a href="http://honeybeeinthecity.blogspot.com/">Little Chief Honey Bee's</a> blog from the <a href="http://www.ohsoprettythediaries.com/2012/02/tutorial-quick-simple-updo.html">Oh So Pretty Diaries</a>. Mine doesn't look is cute/neat in the picture, but for a 5 minute updo I'm pretty pleased with it. I also LOVE this dress! It comes in a pencil skirt and flared options, up to size 4X, and it also comes in red, black, navy, cream, and patterned. I definitely plan on getting another one, probably in navy or red. Gorgeous! One tip: the sleeves are pretty tight. If you have bigger arms like me, you might want to size up and then get it tailored if the rest of the body is too big.<br /><br />Finally, I just want to say that a year ago I would have never worn this dress. You can definitely see my round belly in it and the sleeves really accentuate my bigger arms. After getting into plus sized fashion and reading so many beautiful blogs (special shout outs to <a href="http://nicolettemason.com/">Nicolette Mason</a>, <a href="http://www.gabifresh.com/">Gabi Gregg</a>, <a href="http://www.fatshopaholic.com/">Tiffany</a>, <a href="http://www.bonjourgazel.com">Gazel</a>, and <a href="http://www.fatshionable.com/">Jay Miranda</a>), I now have the confidence to wear what I want to wear, to shed self-hatred layer by layer, and I have learned to love myself more than I ever have, even when I was 50 lbs thinner. Thank you so much to all the bloggers out there, and for showing me what it really means to love yourself!<br /></div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-82451523218206112322012-05-09T17:35:00.005-07:002012-05-09T18:16:57.285-07:00#26 Being in the Public EyeSo I wanted to take a second and reach out to my other blog fashionistas out there and inquire about a specific problem or issue I'm having. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Advice or thoughts would be appreciated</span>.<br /><br />I recently submitted one of my OOTD's to a plus size fashion tumblr that I really love because firstly, I adore it and I want to be a part of it and, secondly, I was hoping to get some traffic and new followers to my blog. When I checked the tumblr, there were a lot of reblogs and some sweet compliments that really continue to boost my confidence and make me feel positively about maintaining my fashion blog. However, when I checked one of the tumblrs, I was pretty disgusted to see my photo on a pornographic NSFW tumblr. I feel extremely grossed out and uncomfortable with that. I could ask the person to take it off their blog but I'm not sure if that's truly going to accomplish anything.<br /><br />I am not so naive as to misunderstand what happens when you submit photos or content to the internet-- it is out there permanently for anyone to use, misuse, post, reblog, edit, etc. Just my image juxtaposed with these pornographic ones was upsetting. I guess at this point, I either have to accept that people may reblog my images and accept the so-called "terms" of the internet or I have to be solely an admirer, not a participant in these submission tumblrs to try to redeem some of my privacy. My images are on Pinterest now too-- which again, is a blessing and a curse because it brought me lots of traffic and awesome new blogs to read yet at the same time, is a symbol of my loss of control over my own images (literally in two senses: images of me and MY images). And when you get down to it, if I'm that concerned with protecting my images, then I guess I shouldn't have a blog at all because anyone could steal my images from this page alone and use them inappropriately or without my permission-- people already did on Pinterest. Is that really the right and only answer?<br /><br />Such is my dilemma. What are your thoughts? Have your images ever been misused or posted on an inappropriate website? How did you deal with this issues? Please share your thoughts and experiences-- it would really be helpful to me.<br /><br />UPDATE: The person who re-blogged my image respectfully took it down. Faith in humanity somewhat restored. Would still love thoughts on this debate!SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-56529106847079004172012-04-29T14:51:00.003-07:002012-04-29T14:58:49.870-07:00#25 Electric PrepAllow me to make this metaphor: I think some colors are like new albums by your favorite artist. Sometimes at first, you aren't exactly loving it-- in fact, maybe you're not into at all. But, you decide to be patient and with each new listen, you find yourself understanding the intricacies and nuances of their new sound. Over time, as you listen and listen again, you slowly come to love their work.<br />
<br />
That's exactly how I feel about acid/electric yellows and greens-- strong dislike at first, but over time, I'm coming to love the unusual acid tones that are currently very on trend. They come with a challenge because they aren't exactly flattering on all skin tones and hair colors, but I'm really into the way neon contrasts with my red hair. I think neons look especially gorgeous on women with beautiful dark cocoa skin-- something about how the colors come together is so breathtaking. Clearly, I am quite the opposite of beautiful dark cocoa; I'm more say... white chocolate.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/dsc0188qd.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/970/dsc0188qd.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/28/dsc0186dn.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/1712/dsc0186dn.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/dsc0191zl.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/4403/dsc0191zl.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/407/dsc0189i.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/9766/dsc0189i.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/851/dsc0171fx.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/7634/dsc0171fx.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/685/dsc0169rq.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/3640/dsc0169rq.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/29/dsc0174001.jpg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting"><img border="0" src="http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/8909/dsc0174001.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">SHIRT</span> Acid Yellow Silk Button Up, Ann Taylor | <b>SWEATER</b> Honeydew Light Wool Sweater, Ann Taylor <span style="font-weight: bold;">| JEANS </span>Dark Skinnies, Eloquii | <b>SHOES</b><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Men's Leather Sperrys, Vintage | <span style="font-weight: bold;">BRACELET </span>Ribbon Crystal Bracelet, The Limited</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know neon and neutral is not news but I love the contrast of the shirt with my brown Sperrys (which I got for $10 at a vintage store!). I also love the preppy look spiced up with neons-- I think it all plays really well off of my green glasses, too. Finally, I can't say it enough: I heart Ann Taylor. It's true. I used to think that it was a store that would age me, but they actually have some very trendy stuff in beautiful colors, which helps me be more stylish for work and still look youthful and fashionable. It doesn't hurt that they have 40% off sales all the time, too! I think there's one going on now, coupon code: April40. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My favorite neon color right now will still be blue-- I have a similar shirt that is blue that I can't wait to show you (also from my love Ann Taylor). What about you? What's your favorite neon color this season?</div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-301861401843157659.post-81726809290378323892012-04-18T15:39:00.005-07:002012-04-18T16:40:20.337-07:00#24 Forget Me NotRemember me? I'm still here... working my butt off. And I have really exciting news that I can't wait to share with you all in a few short weeks!<br /><br />Back to fashion: I love florals. There's something about them that make me happy. Maybe it's because they scream spring, or because they remind me of a comfy old grandma couch. Two memories that bring a lot of joy. Either way, I'm really pleased that they're really trending in fashion lately. In fact, a lot of my favorite things have become trendy-- comfortable wedges and flatforms, neon colors, florals, lace, and maxi dresses. Clearly I'm so awesome, I'm ahead of the curve. Right... Now, on to the outfit!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" title="ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting" href="http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/560/72452885.jpg/"><img src="http://img560.imageshack.us/img560/9098/72452885.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">TOP </span>Floral Peplum Shirt, H&M | <span style="font-weight: bold;">JEANS</span> Classic Skinnies, Eloquii | <span style="font-weight: bold;">SHOES</span> All Caps Wedges, Jeffrey Campbell |<span style="font-weight: bold;"> WALLET/CLUTCH </span>Mint Zip Wallet, UO<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Sorry the photo quality isn't perfect. My amazing friend Ellie took them on her iPhone. I'm still amazed at the quality regardless. Oh, and lip color is Schiap by NARS. The lovely <a href="http://www.nicolettemason.com/">Nicolette Mason</a> wears it a lot on her blog, too!<br /><br />I love the peplum thing. This top is from H&M and they had so many tops like this... I also got it in solid kelly green and a navy top with red polka dots. That's how I roll: find one thing you like and get it in every color. I think it makes me look a little too busty but hell, I'm wearing what I wanna wear! I'm becoming quite a fan of Eloquii, too. I'm pretty pleased with the jeans I got. They're a little bit big and a little bit short on me (I'm about 5'7") but they're still great and really comfortable. I definitely plan to get them in more sizes and colors (and size down and get a bigger inseam). I only wish they had them in bright tropical colors and pastels! I'm drooling just thinking about it!<br /><br />Another interesting development: I stumbled upon myself on Pinterest. There have been a lot of picture sharing of my outfits, <a href="http://zezaftig.blogspot.com/2011/07/9-brushstrokes.html">especially this one in particular</a>! It's pretty cool actually. It really built up my confidence to see that people liked my style. If you pinned me, thank you so much and thank you for giving me credit! Happy Spring, all!<br /></div></div>SRShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02807522304987894175noreply@blogger.com2