I hate my title!

Also, I really need a new title for this blog.  My current one is so lame.  I never liked it.  I just couldn't think of anything else and it sort of made sense since I really hate that term.  But why use it if I hate it so much?

Any ideas?

Project Runway, I'm done with you!

I watched season nine of Project Runway a few weeks ago--I know, I'm so behind!--and I am still in utter disbelief that Anya won instead of Joshua. Well, for anyone that still cares....

Joshua's collection was cohesive, unique, different, and unique. Yes, I used unique twice. That wasn't even intentional.  He used unconventional materials (neoprene and plastic), interesting fabric--I agree with Tim Gunn that it was god-awful, but he eventually "made it work"--, and made something seemingly unwearable, wearable.  That's a true test of a fashion designer.  I would wear everything in his collection, except maybe the striped shirt and pant ensemble.  Of course, his collection isn't perfect.  Nobody's was.  But his was pretty damn close. And he has the potential.  There's no doubt that he can sew, but the point is he has so many ideas, and he was able to take the judges' criticisms to create an edgy and chic collection.

 
Anya's collection is beautiful, but it's not innovative or interesting. It's definitely something you've seen before.  And, can she quit it with the caftans and maxi dresses? Geeez.  Big ups to her for being able to haul ass to get shit done, i.e. dyeing Nina's outfit from mustard to that dark greyish, yellow tinted color.  She's definitely creative and resourceful, but like others have said, very "one-note."  Also, kudos to her for being able to make such beautiful, complete garments with very limited sewing experience.  But the show isn't about hauling ass, resourcefulness, or personality.  It's about, dare I say, fashion?  And fashion is about creativity and innovation.  And, DESIGN! Creating something new and interesting. Obviously, the entire fashion industry is based on interpreting or reinterpreting past designs.  Nothing in fashion is really "new."  However, Joshua's collection just showed more creativity and range.  

Yes, Joshua was a DICK!  Anya is probably one of the sweetest designers on the show with a hellauv lot of tenacity.  I liked almost all of her designs and only liked some of Joshua's during the course of the show, but in the end Joshua's final collection was just better.

After the last episode, I was grumbling for days to my boyfriend.  He watched it with me and, surprisingly, has a discerning eye for what looks good and doesn't look good.  Who's this guy?
Anyway, he brought up a good point when I continued to complain about the unfairness of the show, how the judges have gone blind, and how Joshua was robbed of the "crown" just because he was a dick.  He said, "Anya is probably just more marketable. She's pretty and sweet.  They don't want another gay guy designing clothes.  They have plenty out there already.  The show will probably generate more revenue with not just her collection, but her as a person.  She would be a spokesperson for the show and channel and that's more marketable than another gay guy with a diva-like personality."  I"m paraphrasing, of course.

Duh! That makes so much sense.

Also, I'm hating the new format of the show. It's probably not new since I just recently jumped back into the show after a three year hiatus.  But, can they cut out all that hair and make-up footage? Who cares?  It's cool that they show the judges discussing the contestant's garments because they didn't do enough of that before.  Also, show more construction footage.  They make it seem like sewing and designing is so easy.  IT'S NOT!  What the hell?!  Show the pattern making, fabric cutting, drawing, and design process!!!!  

That doesn't matter, anyway. From this day forth, I will never watch another episode of Project Runway. It's rigged! I'm with you all the way, Joshua Mckinley!

Adorn me...

If you're like me, Adorn has been on repeat for weeks. Not only are the lyrics heartfelt--you know he means that shit--, but the melody and beat are so catchy. Not to mention those weird noises he makes in the beginning and randomly throughout the song. "Waaa"

It works.

Miguel nailed it. He fuckin' nailed it. It's pretty fuckin' scary how well he knows us. That right there is what every girl longs for. But, sadly, rarely ever experiences. It's a reminder: Ladies, don't settle for less just because you're lonely, you think you're in love, or you believe he/she loves you. Shit, I'm not asking for some crazy fairy tale ending. Just man up! Show me some devotion, sincerity, and affection.

How can your heart not melt when you hear, "Baby these fists will always protect ya, lady And this mind, oh, will never neglect you, yeah, baby, oh, baby" and "Let my love adorn you baby, hey Le-le-le-let it dress you down"? And he's asking you as if it's his pleasure!

That's the dream right there.

Miguel, if you're out there...If somehow it doesn't work with Nazanin, I'm here. You can adorn me, baby! Just thought I'd put it out there.

Lyrics:
These lips can't wait to taste your skin, baby, no, no
And these eyes, yeah, can't wait to see your grin, ooh ooh baby
Just let my love
Just let my love adorn you
Please baby, yeah

You gotta know
You gotta know
You know that I adore you
Yeah baby

Baby these fists will always protect ya, lady
And this mind, oh, will never neglect you, yeah, baby, oh, baby
And if they stay trying to break us down don't let that affect us, no, baby
You just gotta let my love
Let my love
Let my love adorn you
Ah, le-le-le-let it dress you down

You got to know
You gotta know
Know that I adore you
Trust that babe

I... oh oh
Let my love adorn you baby
Don't you ever
Don't you let nobody tell you different baby
I'll always adore you
You gotta know now
You got to know know know
Now yeah

Ooh, yeah
The same way that the stars adorn the skies yeah (every night baby)
Oh, look up suga (every night baby)
Now, hey, hey, hey
The same way that my whole world's in your eyes (in your eyes baby)
Ooh, and this time now (and this time baby)

Just let
Let my love adorn you baby, hey
Le-le-le-let it dress you down
You gotta know, baby
Oh, you gotta know
Know that I adorn you
Oh, love aint never looked so good on ya
Ooh, put it on baby
Let my love adorn you 

Return of the Mack

Return of the Mack 

It is return of the Mack 

Come on, return of the Mack 

Oh, my God, you know that I'll be back  

Here I am

 
Return of the Mack 

Once again, return of the Mack  

Top of the world, return of the Mack  

Watch my flow, you know that I'll be back 

Here I go

 
So, I'm back up in the game, running things like half my swing  

Lettin' all the people know that I'm back to run the show 

'Cause what you did you know was wrong  

And all the nasty things you've done 

So baby, listen carefully while I sing my comeback song

I haven't done anything for probably more than a month. It feels like too long, which is a good thing because I'm all up in it now--if you haven't noticed from the lyrics above and the video you will see at the very bottom. 

I'm almost done with my bib from the Home Ec Online course by Leigh-Ann, Rachel, and Courtney. 

After visiting Courtney's site, I found out she was selling some of her vintage fat quarter fabrics. Just bought three packs for $19. But I looked at the date and her entry is more than a year old! I hope she isn't sold out and still has some good stuff for me!

Flat sheets ready to be made into throws for my baby niece and cousin (not a baby, but acts like one--nah, I love her).

Soon to be blankie for my baby nephew. His mom's the cousin I mentioned in the previous picture.

I'M PUMPED! Let's do dis!

Inspiration...

I know it's a little early to be preparing for Halloween, but if you think about it's almost July and October is only a mere three months away! I still have to come up with some feasible ideas, recreate/redesign the look (if needed), look for materials, and sew!

I came across the ever-so-cute (and that's a huge understatement) Keiko Lynn in her Mary Poppins costume.



That lead me to her blog where I looked through her many outfits and became even more insanely jealous of how adorable, photogenic, creative, chic, cute, and adorable (I know I said that already) she is. I already knew this when I stumbled across her site a few years back. I'd forgotten about her until now, and am glad I found her again because I need to continue with my sewing and get inspired.

No one will do it for me. I can't just sit here being lazy and waiting for things to happen. She's about my age and she's already made a name for herself.

Besides sewing and getting inspired, I also need to get out of this styling rut. Sure, my outfits are cute but it doesn't mean anything when my hair is all jacked up and I have the least amount of make-up on. Fashion is all about appearances and I need to look the part, especially if I want people to go to my site.

Everyday will be my runway.

Fucked.

I ordered the Hankshaw "Annie" dress last week and spent the entire weekend imagining how I was going to gussy it up. Wedge, belt, and accessorize the shit out of that thing. Hell yeah! 

Hell not. 

Belt or no belt, it was hopeless. The fit is terrible. It was like a very expensive, loose nightgown. Not formfitting at all like the description describes.

Here's the stupid dress below.

To think I wasted sleepless nights thinking about you! To add insult to injury, the Canyon Laurel hood scarf also sucked in a big way. Actually, a few days after I bought it, I was already starting to regret it.

My Wildfox Couture obsession is over! The seduction is over. Actually, not only was I seduced, I was fucked backwards and forwards. 

"Buy yourself something nice."

That's what my ever-so-sweet boyfriend emailed me.

 And I sho did!


Another plus is that I was able to find this long-coveted item for only $170 from shopsplash.com using a coupon code! Always. Always. Always. Always find a coupon code. ALWAYS.

The fabric is a little less thrilling than I expected--polyester, nylon cheapie looking lace--and an even bigger downer was that it said "Made in China."  The Wildfox bikini top I bought from Revolve.com was made in USA so I expected all their other stuff to be of the same origin.  Why else would they charge such ridiculous prices for simple designs and okay fabric? I had to justify it somehow, but can't find a substantial reason  except that it's pretty.

I still LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Almost as much as I love the boyfriend.

That day I went a little crazy and bought the Laurel Canyon Woodstock hood scarf too. It was such a good deal at evesapple.com that I couldn't resist. $57.50 with coupon code! I wanted cream, but they only had brown.

I think I'll live.



Then today, fawning over my new dungarees, I couldn't help but look for more Wildfox Couture sales. And I did.  Got the Annie Hankshaw dress for $155.98 at lindseylou.com.



It pays (pun intended) to shop around because these lesser known online shops always offer great discounts--well below retail and there's almost always a coupon code lurking around.

P.S. The last two items I paid for myself. Didn't want to push it.

Speaking of Wildfox Couture...

I am so in love with this brand. Their laid-back prairie, cow-girl meets hippie, Penny Lane-rocker, surf-chick look is gnarly! 

QUEEN OF THE WEST - FLOUNCE SLEEVE DRESS $282

The West Was Won - HANKSHAW DRESS$ $445

From left to right: I just like the long lace vest, lace pants, and lace cuffed cardigan.

Freebird Hendrix Pants $129

British London Baby Doll Dress $159 

 

 Laurel Canyon Woodstock Hood Scarf in  brown (top) and cream (bottom).  $189

Prairie Rose Cutoff Trailer Tank $230; Dallas shoes $150

Rodeo Queen Dungarees $335

Annie Hankshaw Maxi Dress in Canyon Coral $419

Rodeo Star Billy Cropped Sweater $209; Desert Snow Coyote Maxi Skirt $319 

All these girls look like they just don't give a damn! They're all on something and I want some too! Puff puff...pass.

#1 You know it's a bad idea when...

You know it's a bad idea when you have a few "minutes" before getting ready for bed and decide to use that time to "browse" around your favorite shopping sites.

House of Harlow 1960 - Sunburst cocktail ring. Shopbop ($31.50)

Wildfox Couture - Daisy Denim Sinatra bikini. Revolve Clothing (top: $45, bottom: $70).

At least they were on sale.

Novice, Amatuer, Rookie

Every day, for the last few weeks, I have been google searching the heck out of the world wide web in search of the Current/Elliott Moonbeams and its orange and white counterpart.

Nordstrom's? Nope.
Shopbop? Nope.
Revolve? Nope.
Saks? Nope.
Ebay? Nope.

All my usual haunts were either completely sold out or not available in my size. Sure, I really, really, really wanted them. But it was different now. The more rare and unattainable they seemed, the more I HAD to have them.

I was on a mission. An assassin hiding in the shadows stalking its kill. Waiting for the right time to make a move. Then, BAM! I would finish him off. Job complete.

No dollar amount too great. No (online) store too far. I will get those jeans!

Call me La Femme Nikita. I was finally able to find some UK sites that had my size. However, after hours of scrolling through pictures, registering for the site, and deep contemplation I eventually wimped out and closed the window before I could check out.

Mission incomplete.

Nevertheless, "I always get my man."

jeansmalls.net *

Or so I thought.

Jeansmalls? What a rookie mistake. Tsk...tsk. The fobby name should've been a dead giveaway. Not to mention the reduced price.

So, I checked out and the screen says, "VALIDATION ERROR." I pressed the back button and submitted my order again. Screen said the same thing. I emailed them, which is fruitless of course.

Last week, I received a $307 charge from JIAJIA FIRM SUZHOU CN. Then today I received a small rectangular package--about the size of a wallet--from China containing Gucci sunglasses.

Geez, at least send me the correct, FAKE item.

*I was trying to do a screenshot of the site, but Blogger won't let me publish with the screenshot.

Stiletto Jean by Current/Elliott

Current/Elliott first caught my eye at the Loehmann's Clearance Center--man, I miss that store. It was perfectly stonewashed with fades and rips in all the right places.  

But that was where perfect ended. I tried on the 25s (my normal size) and it was slipping off my waist.  Same thing with the 24s. What was going on?  Do I even bother with the 23s? Well, they didn't have it anyway. These weren't even boyfriend fit. They were like houser, raver, wanna-be gangster  jeans.

From that day forward, Current/Elliott was off my denim radar. If they can't even fit properly, what's the point? Then, all of sudden, this brand was everywhere. Ads on my facebook. Mentions in Lucky, US, and Instyle. Celebs like Rhianna, Kate Bosworth, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Isla Fischer sporting the jeans. And looking fabulous, I might add. What was going on?

Then a few weeks ago, I was window shopping on shopbop.com and came across these beautiful jeans: 

Current/Elliott Stiletto Jeans in Moonbeam

It couldn't just be a fluke because they made these too:

Current/Elliott Low-rise Stiletto Jeans

Well, now I get it.

Asos Outlet

My last list comprised of cute--but dangerously close to maxing out your credit card--dresses.

Don't fret! Like any retailer, they have sales! Not just semi-annual or buy $150 and get $30 off. No. No. No. They have an outlet store, which means there is a plethora of decently-priced goodies all year round at up to 70% off!

Like any sale, wait too long and your size is gone or the item is out of stock. So check frequently and buy right away!

I've compiled my favorites under $50 to all you budgeting buyers. I've also added some tops and pants, which I completely ignored on my previous list. I know there's more to summer attire than just dresses, but they're just so much more fun!  

ASOS PETITE Pique Chelsea Scalloped Shift Dress $49.08 (got one, but in 2 sizes too big)

 

ASOS Pinafore Dress in Cord $39.08 (only size 12 left)

A Wear Bold Butterfly Print Tunic $31.81 (out of stock)

Laundry Room Check Panel Dress $31.81 (don't have my size) 

ASOS Cut Out Summer Dress in Color Block $19.09

ASOS Cut out Front Bow Dress $32.72

ASOS Knitted Pleated Pants $21.81

ASOS Linen Mix Rope Belt Wide Leg Pant $24.54

You can still wear pants in the summer! Just go for wide legged ones, especially in linen or knit to keep things airy and non-sweaty.

ASOS Corset Top With Fringing Detail $18.18

ASOS Corset Top With Color Block $30

Sure you can wear these bra tops alone. But not all of us  have flat tummies, big breasts, and legs for dayzzz. Still, there's hope for us non-flat tummied, big breasted, long legged beauties.  Just wear 'em under sheer, cutout, or crochet tops (see below: ASOS cutwork or ASOS tunic with pretty lace panels). It'd also be cute under tank dresses that are cut too low or overalls (see above: ASOS Pinafore dress). 

ASOS Printed Peter Pan Collar Top $22.72

 

 ASOS Knitted Shift Dress In Deco Pattern $29.09

 

ASOS Cutwork Top $36.36

Wear with ASOS Corset Top With Fringing Detail (see above).



 

ASOS Premium Suede Tie Back Apron $38.18

ASOS Tunic with Pretty Lace Panels $24.54

Wear with ASOS Corset top with color block (see above).

Lottie and Holly Floral Crochet Trim Crop Top $18.18

I wouldn't wear these two pieces together. Too matchy-matchy. Plus, the shorts are too frumpy. They need to be shorter and tighter. The top would go well with the ASOS Linen Mix Rope Belt Wide Leg Pant (see above).


See, don't you just love ASOS?

"The word on the street is ASOS".

I couldn't agree more with the Evening Standard. This London-based online retailer has almost everything a girl could ever want. From designer brands to up-and-coming labels, they have outfits in every style, occasion, and figure.

Best of all, if you're from the U.S., shipping is free and no tax! Returns are also free! 

Summer is practically here so get shopping!

My Summer Picks 

River Island Bow Neck Dress

$45.45

The print and neckline are adorable! Who doesn't love a short, well-fitted shift dress?  Backyard BBQ and picnic worthy.

ASOS Lace Dress in Floral Print

$54.54

Wow. Navy blue and peach! Brunch with the in-laws and afternoon tea--or mimosas--with your girls.  

ASOS Midi Body-Conscious Dress In Aztec Print

$45.45

 Cap sleeves and scooped back are perfect for those hot summer nights walking in the city!

Since wedding season is also upon us.... 

Found a few that are perfect for the engagement party, church ceremony, or reception.

Finders Keepers Kisses Lattice Dress

$181.79

This is my absolute favorite. The cut out, belted faux leather waist and asymmetrical hemline...sexy!  Oh, and the colors. I'd just wear this everywhere.


 

My second favorite! The scalloped t-back is the best part! Swoon Scallop dress by Three Floor; $141.80




Three Floor does it again with their Cross My Heart Midi; $214.51. I usually hate dresses that hit past my knee. I'm 5'2" so I usually look stumpy, frumpy, or both. However, you can't resist these colors. And the pleated skirt!




This is so elegant and sexy! I hate midis, too many sequins, and non-multicolors.  But the cut out sides and open back keep it interesting!  Just wear sky-high heels to avoid stumpy and frumpiness. Embellished Midi Dress with Open Back by ASOS; $218.15

Oasis Color Block Pleat Dress

$109.07

A little boring for me, but my eyes lock into anything that's sea foam green or peach. And when they're together, it's even more irresistible. Just accessorize the shit out of this thing. I'm thinking a bright, jewel encrusted bib necklace and huge, bauble rings--one on each ring finger. Add sexy heels--something strappy--and you're good to go.

I just realized that this list ignored everything else--shorts, rompers, capris, skirts, tops, etc. Time to make another list...