Filled Out Nice

I'm too excited by the prospect of warm brownies to come up with a clever title.

2011-01-28T00:29:00.007-06:00

WORN: January 27, 2011

Sweater: Express
Blouse: Target
Skirt: Old Navy
Tights: We Love Colors
Shoes: Vintage
Bracelets: India
Belt: Urban Outfitters

Hello all, here I am looking nice and washed out in the fluorescents of my dorm's hallway. I missed the daylight so my roommate Rachael snapped these.

I've had this sweater forever but I think the last time I wore it was my freshman year of college, somewhere near March of 2008. It's probably weird that I remember the complete history of when and where I wore nearly every piece of clothing I own, but I'm okay with that. I'm like a clothing memory savant. Rain woman?

Forgive the corniness, it's around twenty degrees in Texas (insert whimper), so my warm-natured brain might be shutting down.

Anyway, I am currently hangin' with my two besties, both of whom have very recently become engaged, so we're about to commence celebrating with homemade brownies and Nintendo 64!

Hoping you're all having a lovely and warm Tuesday. Stay safe!

Working on a Dream

2011-01-21T21:32:00.004-06:00

Worn: JANUARY 21, 2011 (still haven't figured out how to change the date on my camera...)

Dress: Forever 21
Cardigan: Cable & Gauge (Marshall's)
Jacket: Levi's
Tights: can't remember... but they were also purchased at Marshall's
Scarf: India
Shoes: Vintage, and from this Etsy shop
Bag: Coach

If it isn't pretty nerdy, I felt a little surge just now upon clicking the "New Post" button. It seems it's been ages since I've managed to get outfit photos documented and onto my abandoned and drafty little blog.

I've honestly really missed it. I miss reading other blogs, and having an outlet for all of my fashion-fueled musings. I'm done with all of my fashion classes, so this fall and spring have been dedicated to my 2nd major and my minor, Journalism and Creative Writing, respectively.

So basically, I have no one but my magazines to obsess about clothes with. And sadly, they do not speak back, no matter how loudly I exclaim upon discovering them in my mailbox.

Wow, how much I've missed this is still kind of hitting me. Blogging on here used to be one of my favorite things, and I haven't done it regularly in almost a year.

2010 was kind of a crazy time and I disappeared for awhile so I could work on myself and building my life into one that was joyful again. It was a road, but I know now that each step built a wiser and richer path than the one on which I previously trudged.

Then I had a completely perfect, beautiful, and life-altering summer, yet this fall it seems as if I've been consumed by the ordinary and downright trivial. I've had some doubts about my future but yet I haven't taken hold of the wonderful life and opportunities I have right now, today.

So, I won't call them resolutions, because I think they're more important than that. But I've... resolved (haha) to pursue several things that I haven't in awhile, and blogging definitely makes that list.

I hope you all haven't completely lost hope in me, because I think this is going to be a good year for my blog, and for myself.

I sincerely wish you all the same.

P.S.

I completely forgot about the clothes! haha. Briefly: This is me looking awkward at an art opening downtown. The night shots are with my brand new denim jacket, the first one I've ever had that makes me feel cool.

P.P.S.

The post title is one of my favorite Bruce Springsteen songs. I might be a little too into that guy.

Hoodlum

2010-11-01T21:17:00.005-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 24, 2010

Sweater: Forever 21
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: Forever 21
Shoes: Target
Pearls: Target

It really doesn't feel like it was over a week ago, but I wore this for my sister Estella's baby shower. I went back to Houston for the weekend, which was good & somewhat necessary. It'd been almost two months since I'd seen the fam'. Yes, I say fam'. Don't judge.

Haha, anyway, I was something of a hired hand for the weekend, making about a zillion decorative bows and analyzing the fine art of confetti design, but it was a good time. I haven't done a family party sort of thing in ages.

Whilst in the big city again, I splurged on this sweater, which was kinda 'spensive by F21 standards, but it was the only thing I really loved. Besides a blue hoodie at Gap, but isn't it kind of a bum-out when a hoodie is the most exciting thing a mall has to offer? I suppose there are greater tragedies in the world. Maybe.

But at least being home was satisfying, in a good for the soul kind of way. I leave you with hopes that you've had far better luck with your own fall shopping expeditions :)

A Little Late

2010-10-20T19:00:00.004-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 20, 2010

Blouse: Target
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: Urban Outfitters
Flats: Urban Outfitters
Bracelet: My mom's

Here's where I would normally insert my slew of excuses for my latest bout of absentee blog-parenting. (If such a phenomenon existed I would be its primary case study.) But I won't bore you with details of my camera's boycott of basic photographic duties or my gargantuan class load. You wouldn't want to hear about that :)

As the post title hints, I was running pretty late (per the norm) for class today. My M/W classes don't actually begin until 12:30, but I never do my homework for them until the day of. They're both writing workshops, and require a near constant stream of peer reviews. Not too bad, but stressful if you're an accomplished procrastinator.

But today was my workshop day in Intermediate Fiction, so I wanted to try a little harder than my current slump of denim shorts and most readily available sample from my t-shirt drawer. It did come together pretty quickly, and included my new staple- this denim skirt from Old Navy.

Its only flaw is that it rides up semi-severely when I'm on my bike, so I just try to pedal faster than the rapid-rising level of my shame.

And maybe because of my Tour de France-esque ride there, I made it into class at 12:31, and the workshop went just fine.

p.s. I was told, however, by about four different people in class that the persistent descriptions of my character's clothes were a bit unnecessary. From a fellow student: "I'm not sure I needed to know the sweater she wore was green and cable-knit..."

That might be a hard habit to drop.

p.p.s. Sorry the pictures came out a bit blurry, my camera's still getting back on its feet. (Which may explain the incorrect date on the pictures. Ghettoooo)

Alive & Well.

2010-08-24T16:22:00.004-05:00

Worn: AUGUST 21, 2010

Blouse: Target
Shorts: Banana Republic
Belt: India
Shoes: India
Bangles: India

As the title confirms, I'm back! In many more ways than one. I spent about two months in the wonderful country of India, and not to go all Eat Pray Love on you, but it was positively life-changing.

I met so many great people, and saw beautiful things! I hope to post some photos of the highlights of my trip as soon as I sift through them.

I did take a lot of time to kind of regroup upon returning back to good ol' Tejas, which will hopefully explain my blog absence. I guess after everything, it was nice to have family time as well as a few weeks to decompress.

But I'm so ready to see school friends, and also to talk with blog friends! I've missed it a lot, I just wanted to make sure I was ready to put in 100%.

So hopefully this measures up!

As the list shows, I got a bit carried away in street-vendor purchases from India. But the prices are so unbelievable, I don't even feel guilty. I think the bangles, shoes, and belt combined were around $7. As an impulse buyer, it was kind of paradise.

Anyway, very happy to be back & thank you as always for sticking around to read what I have to say :]

Hi. How are you?

2010-05-11T16:45:00.003-05:00

Worn April 20, 2010

Sweater: J. Crew (thrifted)
Blouse: St. John's Bay (thrifted)
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: Walmart
Flats: Urban Outfitters

My name's Ernie. You might not be aware of this information, as it's been, oh, about a year or two since I've posted.

Okay. Melodrama aside, life has been ca-razy lately. The good and bad kind, but mostly good! I'm leaving for my trip in twelve days (aagh!) and I have 3 more days of school as well as 3 finals left (laaame) so I guess it's all coming to a close fairly quickly.

I'm excited, but I think I must possess some kind of expanded section for nostalgia in my brain, as I always get a tiny bit bummed about endings. Though I really shouldn't, seeing as how I learned last week that I'll be sticking around campus an extra semester for one. class.

But all is well, it only means now I have the time to add a creative writing minor, which is pretty exciting. I took my first formal writing class this semester and I really enjoyed it, so I'm totally looking forward to getting a little more into it.

Mundane musings aside, to the outfit! I wore this same sweater with a pinkish dress a few posts back and I really liked how the colors went together, so I did it again here.

My two best friends volunteer at a local church program teaching a class of fourth graders every Tuesday night so I went along for the ride, though I probably should have prepared a more practical kickball outfit.

But I really like kids, so I knew it would be a good time, as they never disappoint. As you can see, I made some very lovely friends.

And I must say that the lady on my right has some seriously good style. It's all in the attitude, no?

Whiting Workshop*

2010-04-20T21:26:00.005-05:00

WORN APRIL 3, 2010

Blouse: French Connection
Sweater: Target
Shorts: American Eagle
Belt: Walmart
Purse: Thrifted
Shoes: Vintage

Here I am nerding out on Easter weekend at the Houston Indie Book Festival. It was really nice to be back in the city for it. Although Nacogdoches has a pretty nice arts scene for its size (I sound like a d-bag), I do sometimes miss stuff like this.

There were a zillion tables selling all kinds of books or pushing flyers for local writing workshops, but of most interest for me were the live readings being performed by local writers. One of whom happened to be my sister!

She's 27 & I'm 20, but I ended up feeling like her mother the whole time- taking an obscene amount of pictures while coercing her to smile from behind the camera. And then there was the amusement of her sighing protests as I pointed out her name in the table of contents to one of the book vendors. But seriously- she was published in one of the books being sold!

Oh yeah, the outfit. (There I go again- I'm going to be a nightmare when I have kids.) I know they're dubbed Winter Whites, but I lovelovelove the idea of white on white for summer. I kept it pretty simple, a light ensemble for a beautiful day.

*Get it, like writing workshop? ....No? Okay.

Me & my pseudo-child. As you can see, all time spent on myself was dedicated to choosing an outfit, thus leaving my hair sad and unattended to...

The author in action:

And I felt I should include this photographic masterpiece from one of my other sisters, Stella: "Here, I'll take a cool, arty, crooked one!"

Nothing quite like being home with the weird, amazing fam'.

How to pursue a career in the custodial arts.

2010-04-16T15:20:00.005-05:00

WORN MARCH 31, 2010

Sweater: J. Crew (thrifted for $4.99!)
Dress: Forever 21
Belt: Walmart
Flats: Shi by Journey's
Purse: UO

Normally I wear one pop of color and feel pretty accomplished. So on this day I kind of felt worthy of the Nobel Prize... for Fearless Pigmentation Experimentation?

... Anyway. I honestly think it's courtesy of my BFF4L Candace. She dresses in at least 5 or 6 bright colors a day, and usually does a small happy dance when I wear brights. She pretty coo'. Which is how you say "She's pretty cool." when you're trying to sound pretty cool.

The pictures came out a bit fuzzy, but it was almost midnight when they were taken, so I think I was a little tired to notice. At the start of Easter break I stayed with my sister at her university for a night before we went home together.

And as said tiredness indicates, here I am being way too amused by this sign in her school's library:

Layering Lamentations

2010-04-10T01:47:00.001-05:00

Worn MARCH 30, 2010

Sweater: F21
Top: Anthropologie
Shorts: American Eagle
Flats: Shi by Journey's
Belt: Walmart
Purse: Thrifted

So, Worst Blogger Ever Award goes to.... me. I could lament my lameness a bit more, but on to fashion. That's more fun, right? haha

This is kind of an old outfit, but I still like it. I definitely scored this $80 shirt at Anthro for $20! I usually make a beeline for the sales area there because there is just no way I can afford most of it.

I suppose it's just the early summer dressing jitters but I felt a little exposed in this top by itself, so I added the sweater and belted it. It was perfect for the weather and felt polished but still light.

I sometimes have a hard time in summer because my outfits feel more plain than I would like, yet the Texas weather demands no layers. Lately I've been trying to avoid this by just layering very lightly. But more on that in posts to come, once I cease being a recipient of the WBE award :]

Have a wonderful Saturday, soak up the lovely weather!

PS: I don't know why my time says this posted around 2am. It happens to be 5:20 in the afternoon :]

Style.

2010-03-31T01:43:00.005-05:00

Worn MARCH 28, 2010

Sweater: American Eagle
Skirt (worn as shirt): Target
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: Walmart
Flats: Shi by Journey's

Happy Wednesday to you all, though I am only a few hours into mine here in Texas. Thank you for your kind words about my upcoming trip! I felt weird and braggy after I published it which is I realize is kind of silly. It's that absurd kind of insecurity I feel when I send a text message and wonder if it came across as rude becuase I didn't include a smiley face. Hopefully I am not alone in this!

Anyway, I've always been fairly resourceful in piecing together an outfit. This was really no incentive of my own, but rather the involuntary necesssity of being in school uniforms my whole life until college. What little vestige I had of personal style involved a few outfits that I wore again and again.

So if ever an outfit againt the norm was required and my older sister's closet provided no guidance, I'd do something a bit offbeat, like wear a skirt as a top and hope no one would notice. It was never something I considered fashion, it was what I had to do.

I'd always feel kind of nuts wearing that sort of thing, like I was doing something wrong. This feeling continued even as I entered college and was kind of shocked into developing a personal style. It was at first very exhausting and I couldn't really fathom having to wear a new outfit every. single. day.

But I began, the attempt boosted by the weight loss I encountered after my freshman year of college, shed while working at a summer camp. The constantly busy atmosphere gave me a new lifestyle, one that didn't involve naps everyday or eating because I was bored. It really changed how I live my life, for the better.

So I spent my second year of college experiencing the joy of a newfound running habit, and the accompanying necessity of new clothes that were made to fit a woman's body. And by committing to no more junior's section ever again in addition to well-made pieces, I managed to at last convey what I wanted with my clothes.

That was quite the tangent, but all to say that coming into the blogging community and seeing other normal women pull the occasional wardrobe shenanigan of a dress bodice being tucked away to make a skirt or some other genius remix, I finally do not feel alone or silly in my tactics.

It can be isolating to feel as if you certainly do not understand fashion well enough if you must take such absurd measures to successfully dress.

But through connecting with so many other bloggers, I've at last realized that this is not the case, but is indeed quite the opposite.

When viewing clothing without such conventional limits, one achieves not only understanding clothes as fashion, but perhaps the more elusive accomplishment of interpreting this fashion as it relates to the self- an act which can only be described as the utter art form of personal style.

Someday I'm going home, but I ain't ready yet.

2010-03-24T19:47:00.002-05:00

WORN MARCH 24, 2010

Tank: Target
Skirt: Urban Outfitters
Sandals: Target
Belt: Forever 21
Bracelet: Gift from my mom found in Thailand

Hello friends!!!

I cannot believe it has been one whole month away from here! Life got a little crazy a couple of weeks ago, and unfortunately my wardrobe took a backseat.

Through a very long, exhausting, and sometimes very emotional process, I've been majorly blessed with a trip to South Asia this summer. But having never been outside of Texas, passport applications and paperwork have been a bit daunting! But I am so, so excited, even as I now begin the huge task of fundraising.

I've also really been spending lotsandlots of time working on my writing, and though it is draining, it's unexpectedly been a great way of kind of delving into those little thoughts I've always had but never really paid attention to.

So needless to say, I've been flying out the door in very simple ensembles, and finally creaking open my long-abandoned jeans drawer.

Occasionally I've had time to plan something out, but I've also been staying with friends and traveling clear across Texas, so simple basics have been a must. It's been a really good month, one to kind of ponder what's important.

Inevitably, I wondered if my clothes fit into such an equation. I think they do, but only in the sense of other important things in life. I want to keep only those items I love and will want to keep for years to come.

I'm even having a garage sale soon with my two best friends to just de-clutter my wardrobe and simultaneously raise some money for my trip! I don't know what my outfit posts will look like then, as the region I'm going to is fairly conservative, but it'll be an adventure all the same.

But anyway (I feel like if this were a real life conversation I would've just been talking a mile a minute) I've been feeling quite homesick for my little blogspot, and so I vowed to start posting this week. Then this just came together, and I'm so, so happy to connect with you guys again!

I'm really looking forward to catching up on all of your wonderful outfits I've missed this month :]

A new day breaks, and I'm workin' on a dream.

2010-02-21T01:27:00.007-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 20, 2010

Blouse: Built By Wendy
Jeans: Levi's
Belt: Thrifted
Shoes: Shi by Journey's
Ring: Gift
Purse: Thrifted

So I should definitely be getting ready for church right now, but I got up early and it's been such a good morning. And as yesterday was such a perfect day, it seems appropriate I keep the good vibes going.

Saturday was one of those rare days where everything just feels far away, and I don't think about anything but the pretty weather and people I love.

I spent it with my best friends and we went thrifting and picnicking and basking in the sunlighting. Forgive the last, it's a bit early :]

Anyway, I just got these jeans and they're just so easy. Loose but in a nice way, and I think I might live in them.

A perfect pair of jeans to spend a perfect day in.

On art.

2010-02-16T21:13:00.003-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 16, 2010

Sweater: Forever 21
Skirt: Target
Belt: F21
Tights:?
Shoes: Target

This outfit seemed to be channeling some serious 50s housewife, so my dorm's laundry room proved to be the perfect setting.

(...also I kind of missed the daylight again.)

So, aside from setting back feminism a couple of years with these photos, I really enjoyed this little outfit.

And I don't think there's anything wrong with that. I read the cover interview of one of my favorite magazines, a feminist publication that I usually find to be really inspiring.

I couldn't really concentrate on most of it, however, because in the first couple of lines the interviewer & interviewee exchanged some very sarcastic jokes about how it would be quite a different conversation as they wouldn't gab about such silly things as fashion.

It bothers me so much when fashion is written off as being a very frivolous, very ridiculous thing. It's such an emotional, visual art. Art.

They even specifically mocked the Chanel couture shows. I don't understand how you can look at a Chanel runway and not appreciate the effort, the hours upon hours of work, and above all, the innovation.

Readers would be furious if they'd mocked books or paintings as disposable silliness, yet because it's clothing, it's okay. I've known girls who are embarrassed to admit to reading fashion magazines, and it just frustrates me.

I know there are so many flaws to the industry, so much negative attention that is put on body image and, yes, the impossible distortion of what a woman should be. I know all of that, but I don't think that means fashion is wrong, and it certainly is not silly.

Clothing extends into all of our lives, regardless of how interested in it you are. And I just refuse to accept or believe in any way that loving not only the art on runways, but also the art of personal dressing is something to be scorned.

Quietly exiting my soap box now.

Purple & red with a silver finish.

2010-02-16T21:09:00.004-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 15, 2010

Dress (worn as top): R. Tease (TJ Maxx)
Skirt: Thrifted
Tights: Massive Conglomeration of Black Tights in my Drawer
Flats: Coach
Belt: Forever 21
Horse Pin: Thrifted
Pearls: My sister's (sorry, Rie!)

Every so often I'll have this holy little moment where a fashion ad campaign or editorial will hit me somewhere in the chest and I gasp and stare and fondle the page a bit.

... too bold?

Haha, anyway, that didn't really happen with this Coach ad (anticlimactic?), yet somehow before sleep on Sunday the memory of it popped up and I couldn't get the colors out of my head.

It definitely inspired my attempt, so I decided to pay homage with the shoes.

In all honesty Monday was kind of a long day, and I was being all serious-y for most of it. I had tons of stuff to do, and the time just seemed to be evaporating.

But the evening was really nice. I went to a little shindig & got to talk with lots of friends I hadn't seen in awhile.

Silver lining, right? I say that about twenty times a day, haha. But it's always, always there, you just have to think a little harder sometimes.

Anyway, a super simple outfit. And not to be all excusey, but the lighting in these photos came out kinda lame. The colors were much nicer in person, I promise.

Happy post-Valentine's-clearance-candy-hunting.

...Which me and a friend definitely did not do last night :]

Pick up your crazy heart and give it one more try.

2010-02-15T14:08:00.006-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 14, 2010

Sweater: Forever 21
Shirt: Target
Dress (worn as skirt): Forever 21
Shoes: Target
Belt: Forever 21

Hello readers, I sincerely hope you all had a beautiful Valenday, as my roommate calls it. ("I thought everyone called it that..." haha, love her! :])

Mine was fantastic. It included so many of my favorite things!

I wore this first outfit to church and afterwards my best friend & I went thrifting and it was wonderful. The best thrift store in town recently moved into an old department store's space so it's fancypants now, but still marvelously cheap!

Later in the afternoon I went for a nice long run and finallyfinally blow-dried my hair. It's been too short to do so for a while but I went for it yesterday.

I kind of had this hideous, life-altering haircut in seventh grade. You know, the one that makes you kind of look like a dude and subsequently be obsessive about your hair for the rest of your life.

Builds character.

Dress (worn as dress this time!): Forever 21
Tights: Hue
Shoes: White Mt. (Marshall's)
Bangle: Forever 21

Haha, anyway, I found this lovely dress at F21 recently. It was kind of frivolous but I had one of those Carrie-Bradshaw-inspired "Hello, lover..." moments when I tried it on, so I knew it was a keeper!

Especially since I was able to wear it twice, as a dress for evening. I saw a movie with my two besties and then we ended up at IHOP.

We thought about going somewhere fancier, but at 10:00 at night, what sounds better than Nutella crepes?

I am so, so blessed to have these two ladies in my life, and it was the best V-day yet! I still feel nice and mushy from it so I'm going to gush all over you again and thank you so much for stopping by my little spot here :]

...And because we're ridiculous & that huge mirror just seemed way too fun, haha:

Beards and Billiards.

2010-02-13T23:37:00.004-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 13, 2010

Blouse: French Connection
Skirt: Urban Outfitters
Tights: We Love Colors
Heels: Kenneth Cole Reaction
Necklace: Forever 21
Belt: Christmas gift

Ah, the proverbial night on the town. I always feel a bit out of my element when it comes to dressing for said occasion. Jeans aren't quite dressy enough, but my regular school outfits don't seem to fit the bill either.

So I think my brain compensates by signaling my cerebrum's Outfit Creation Department (The fact those letters also stand for Obsessive Compulsive disorder is a coincidence, I'm mostly sure.) to engage in some serious overdressing.

Which is how I ended up in this ensemble for an outing to a way chill little cafe in town. But I did go to a fancy restaurant beforehand, so that's gotta give me some points, I think.

I just bought this skirt for more than I would have liked at UO, but it's pretty well made and for how much I love my clothes, I figure it's okay to pay more every now and then.

And this is my first ever pair of tights from We Love Colors. I never really felt the urge to buy tights online but after searching fruitlessly for a navy pair and this offer from Jessica, the time seemed right.

They're really good quality, and such a good navy. I was worried they'd be too close to black, but they are just perfect.

I really did like the way this look came out, even if everyone else was in jeans. I thought about all of you guys before I left, however, and knew if you were in my shoes, you'd be just as fancy! Which made me pretty happy :]

I think the night could best be summed up per my best friend Candace: "Hey, I forgot we're girls. We totally get to have all of our games paid for."

Even if that meant having to play with a couple of guys, they were pretty nice.

I mean, I wasn't incredibly excited to be hit on by Creepy Bearded Dude, but it was a good time. (I'm ALL for beards [seriously.] but this one was not so pleasant- a beard does not a receding hairline compensate.)

I promise I'm not a jerk, he really was creepy! haha.

Ahem, anyway... Here are my mad skillz!

Monster Mash.

2010-02-10T22:59:00.005-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 10, 2010

Shirt: American Eagle (for ten dollas!)
Skirt: Target
Tights: No ideer.
Shoes: Thrifted
Belt: Forever 21

Since I've lived in Nac, I've definitely been in Walmart approximately 143 times more than I would have liked to ever in my LIFE.

Melodramatic, yes, but true. Although I must concede that it might be good that there is no Target in town, as I would spend absurd amounts of time and money there, albeit joyfully.

My parents always wanted better for us, and thus worked hard to give us a Walmart-free childhood, with hopes that maniacal little yellow face would never impede upon our happy, carefree existence.

And then college applications arrived and I'd almost reached complete adulthood unscathed....

Until enrolling at SFA and meeting the dreadful Walmart Monster.

At least this is what I dubbed it my freshmen year after walking out in a daze after my first few naive forays and staring dumbfounded at my crumpled list, ink smeared from the palms that had swiftly grown clammy under the condemning flourescent lights.

"Hey... I only needed yogurt and batteries. Why do I have dryer sheets and an old lady cardigan? It's like... some monster attacked my list."

No friends, I was not a pothead, as that quote suggests. I was merely under the spell of the Walmart Monster.

So, um...

Sometimes I write an absurdly long post about nonsense when what I really meant was something like:

So I wore clothes and this is what it looked like.

Haha, but thank you all so much for reading what I have to say, no matter how ridikuluss it is. I love this blog and especially getting to connect with you guys through it!

But ahem, back to fashionystuff, I feel like a legit Texan now that I've purchased my first official denim button down. Next, cowboy boots. I'm still not sure on that one. I know, I'm a disgrace.

It's gotten freakishly cold down here (not down at. all.) but this outfit was surprisingly warm.

Although I did have to wear it without my beloved purse belt, which I forgot with my sister when I went to visit her this weekend.

She actually goes to my college's big huge rival school. I don't really get into the whole school spirit too much, but c'mon. Lumberjack versus Bearkat? Who even knows what a bearkat is? No competish.

That's right friends, my mascot is a lumberjack. Quiver in fear.

Well on that slightly creepy note...

Happy Wednesday, Valentine's Day is approaching! (!!!!!!!)

P.S. If she's reading this, please don't kill me (please?) but here's my photographer/amazing good friend Krissy. Ain't she cute?

In stock.

2010-02-08T20:34:00.009-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 3, 2010

Sweater: Twelve by Twelve (Forever 21)
Dress (worn as blouse): Target
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: UO
Tights: Target
Shoes: Thrifted

I wore this on Wednesday and was once again in a crazy rush. But I keep a very small roster of what I call "stock" outfits in my head that aren't absurdly creative, but reliable and quick.

Which I know is a leeetle bit anal, but I feel so off when I have to run out the door in something I don't like. I appease the feeling of being kind of OCD about that by telling myself the clothing obsession was born out of being forced into school uniforms from age 3 to 18.

I mean, that works, right? haha

So even though I'd never worn this, I'd thought about it quite a few times, knowing I could easily pin up the hem of the dress and tuck it into the denim skirt.

It worked fine and (almost) got me to class on time.

Sorry for Tacky Stairwell Pictures again. I look a little silly, but it was late and exhaustion was beginning to cloud my Unaffected Cool Girl posing strategies. Apparently I'm a fan of capitalization tonight. Hey, on the bright side, the stairwell colors match my outfit. That's got to count for something, I think.

On second thought, that might actually be a con. Hmm.

Anywho, off to brave the sad trenches of my dorm room. Re: Organize the mounds of clothes I send into wild disarray on a daily basis.

Getting dressed can be quite a messy business.

P.S. Thank you all for helping me not feel like a crazypants regarding my last post. Emily, it really is the pleasure of problem solving! :]

Apparaholics Anonymous

2010-02-03T15:59:00.005-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 2, 2010

Sweater: American Eagle via Marshall's
Blouse: Fossil
Skirt: Tommy Hilfiger Outlet
Tights: Betsey Johnson
Belt: Walmart
Flats: Shi by Journey's

So, I'm going to be creepily honest in the next few paragraphs. Enjoy.

There are times when I construct an outfit I love so much that it gives me this odd little high and I look at it in the mirror and dance around a little and maybe say "yay" more times than necessary.

This feeling is magnified when the outfit was centered around a piece that's always given me trouble or a color that's stumped me in the past.

I think most people feel this way when they identify a way to cure a disease, or launch a campaign against world hunger.

My name is Ernestine, and I get high on a perfect outfit.

Haha, well all to say that I really enjoyed wearing this. I know it isn't really perfect, could fit better, etc., but I just felt so happy in it. And that's the most important part, right?

My sister bought me this blouse a couple of years ago for Christmas and after eternally giving her grief for buying it about three sizes too big, I think this is the best I've ever styled it.

I got a lot of compliments, which never stops surprising me. I always feel like 'thank-you' isn't enough, but a stranger would probably be a bit perturbed if I gave them a big hug like I usually want to :]

Anyway, am I alone in the euphoric effect of an outfit that you just, for some inexplicable reason, utterly adore? Please share, so I don't feel too crazy :]

P.S. Isn't this building pretty? It's the view from the Starbucks patio on campus where I read some afternoons after class.

Speed like a mongoose.

2010-02-03T15:04:00.002-06:00

Worn FEBRUARY 1, 2010

Sweater: Gap
Shirt: Army Surplus
Skirt: Target
Tights: Betsey Johnson
Shoes: Thrifted
Belt: UO

"Mongoose?" you ask with a sharp quizzical inflection.

Forgive me, but this noble mammal was the only appropriate one by which to liken my swift dressing on Monday.

Well, by that little paragraph alone you can probably tell how tired I am! School has been really fun (but tough!) lately and my time management skills are ridiculous. No, actually they're riddikuluss. (Big difference.)

I have class way on the edge of campus from 9:00 am to noon and then another at 12:30. So Monday I ended up shlumping away in whatever I could throw on and then really quickly changing before my 12:30.

And friends, I am not skilled at doing things quickly. I don't walk or learn quickly and I have a habit of taking my sweet time to get dressed, as well as to the point of things. (kindoflikerightnow)

So when I got to my room, I just started flinging things on and it kind of worked.

But as aforementioned sub-par time skills indicate, I ran out of time to catch the light and had a friend shoot these in CVS.

I'm pretty sure the cashiers were laughing at us, but in a town like Nac, we were kind of asking for it :]

I'd like to think I'm a mess you'd wear with pride.

2010-02-01T14:25:00.003-06:00

Worn JANUARY 29, 2010

Sweater: Target, buttons by me
Tights: Hue
Boots: Belk

If ever I was nominated for What Not to Wear (which would be a tad disheartening, seeing as how I have a fashion blog and all) this sweater would be the one item I'd clutch in a kung fu grip and sacrifice any remaining dignity to salvage.

So... I know it's a little sad looking.

Somewhere around the eighth grade I began yearning for a sweater duster. I'm talkin' floor length. Thank God I was never able to find one and settled on this one, even though it was a size too big and relatively shapeless.

A couple years after that I spruced it up with the gold buttons, tossed the tacky accompanying belt, and stitched up the absurd side slits- and hence the dysfunctional love affair began.

Dear black sweater thing,

I know you do nothing for my shape, you aren't very fashion forward, and you definitely aren't extrememly warm. But I love you enough to feature you on my blog, against my better judgement.

Well now that I've creeped out even myself, hope you all had as relaxing and crafty a weekend as me :]

P.S. Organizing a craft bag is hard.

P.P.S. Knitting is even harder.

You've got mail.

2010-01-27T20:13:00.004-06:00

Worn JANUARY 27, 2010

Sweater: Avon
Blouse: Target
Skirt: Target
Tights: ?
Flats: Steve Madden

I keep missing the daylight, so I ended up taking these in the post office of my university. Perhaps an appropriate location, considering that after returning from the long winter break I retrieved six fashion magazines that had been artfully crammed into my tiny box.

It was a bit of a holy moment.

Ughh, just spent way too much time doing nothing and I have to wake up really early tomorrow.

Why don't I ever consider the consequences, WHY I say?! Okay, just felt like being melodramatic.

I was smart last night however, and planned this outfit before bed because I had the World's Earliest Surprise Party this morning at 8:30 am. (He was surprised.)

Anyway, busy day tomorrow, but I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday.

Also, I feel like I should throw out a big huge thank-you for reading what I say here and saying nice things about what I wear. It's crazy to me that anyone reads this at all and I am truly appreciative.

Good night :]

P.S. I think this is my "word to your motha" pose, haha.

Miles to go before I sleep.

2010-01-22T09:09:00.003-06:00

Sweater: Forever 21
Top: Target
Jeans: Old Navy
Belt: Walmart
Shoes: Shi by Journey's

Here I am at the end of a very long school day where behind me lies the palatial splendor of my dorm's stairwell. Where did they find that exquisite mud-gray paint for the steps, you ask? Sorry, it's sold out.

At least I'm wearing a bright color, and perhaps most surprisingly a pair of mid-rise non-skinny-leg jeans. Big deal. Everytime I've worn them since I got them a few weeks ago my sister would exlaim "But you're wearing pants!" It's a compliment, I'm mostly sure.

Usually I feel like these kind of pants make me look a little matronly but I was happily surprised when I tried them on and the $18.99 sold me. (or sold themselves?)

Anyway, inspiration-wise, things are picking up at last! It helps having my closet again and I'm finally having fun getting dressed again. It really throws me off when I just do it because I have to.

Hope you have a great weekend!

P.S. If I look a little funny it might be because my absurdly awesome roommate was taking my photos and I was trying hard not to laugh. Like so :]

Keeping up with the moon on an all night avenue.

2010-01-17T18:55:00.001-06:00

Worn JANUARY 17, 2010

Blazer: Thrifted
Sweater: Old Navy
Skirt: Tommy Hilfiger Outlet
Tights: Betsey Johnson
Boots:Belk
Belt: Urban Outfitters

I hope you all had a wonderful week, but I must admit- I've been feeling quite uninspired! Most of the outfits I've put together have mirrored that sentiment. I find myself dressing in serious color palettes and infusing tights and layers for the sole purpose of warmth rather than any creativity.

Today was the Houston marathon so we went to support my mom, sister, and brother-in-law who are all super amazing enough to run the half. It was so cold, but a lot of fun to cheer on the runners.

I dressed super quick today & I hate that I wasn't too excited about it. Don't you hate when that happens? I'm thinking that maybe I'm just getting the itch to get back to my regular schedule, since I've been on break for quite some time now. I'm also excited to get back to my closet after surviving since mid-
December on what I could jam into a duffle bag and mini suitcase.

But in just a week I'll probably feel the opposite! My spring semester schedule is absurdly full, complete with six classes, and by some horrid joke fate's decided to play on me, an hour and a half each Tuesday & Thursday of Weight Training.

Yes friends, you read that correctly.

I wrought this upon my wretched self by deciding that since this is my very last semester to take classes out of fun and interest instead of dire credit-adhering necessity, I would take Intro. to Creative Writing, which I am sincerely excited about. I think it'll be really fun, but I'm also trying to prepare myself in advance for those peer review sessions... eep!

This, however, meant that I would have to forfeit my lovely 6:00-8:00 pm block of Yoga class, and after scouring the fragments of kines classes still available, the only options left were weights, basketball, or volleyball.

After relaying these choices to my sister, who promptly informed me that my coordination skills would render me a fair amount of embarrassment in the latter two options, I conceded and added it to my schedule.

Oh, dear me. What have I gotten myself into?

Who knows, maybe I'll find myself dispensing fashion advice to my muscled counterparts in exchange for not mocking my deplorable lack of upper-body strength.

I'll let you know how it goes! (If I survive, that is.)

Renewable Resources

2010-01-09T21:42:00.005-06:00

Worn JANUARY 9, 2010

Parka: Gap, (or stolen from my momma's closet!)
Jacket: Christmas gift from my sister
Sweater Top: Ann Taylor, thrifted
Skirt: Urban Outfitters
Tights: Forever 21
Belt: Urban Outfitters
Shoes: Enzo Angiolini, thrifted

Friends, there was once a golden age in the history of cinema when masterpieces of film abounded, when artists of unprecedented talent emerged.

And from these hallowed archives came the classic: The Lizzie McGuire Movie.

The film chronicles the escapades of our eponymously named heroine, played by the iconic Hilary Duff regarding her adventures on a class trip abroad. However, Lizzie & I's intertwined fates converge in the film's opening moments, during her eighth grade graduation.

It was in the midst of this occasion when Lizzie is accosted by her arch-nemesis, the blonde-haired and impossibly long-legged Kate Sanders, who opens with the accusation no woman would care to hear, even in her deepest, darkest nightmares.

As Lizzie stands, unsuspecting, by the refreshments table, Kate attacks:

"Only you would think that you could hide that powder blue, puffy sleeved, it's kind of a peasant dress, but it's really a questionable disaster of fiber content that you wore to the spring dance. Lizzie McGuire, you are an outfit repeater!"

Heartbreaking.

So... I'm sorry I made you sit through that absurdity, if only to prepare you for the fact that on Saturday I rewore my new skirt, sweater tights, and trusty purse-strap-turned-belt ensemble.

Forgive me, won't you?

Anywho, I went to the movies to see Brothers with (ironically) my three older sisters & mom, followed by a nice long lunch. It's the last time we'll all be in town together for awhile, so it was a really good time, despite the fact that the day marked the coldest weather for Houston in years.

I want to end up in NYC someday, but I don't know if I could handle the winters!

I knew these tights were pretty warm, so I started with those and everything else just kind of came together. But I felt a bit like the American flag, so I added the brown belt and new grey jacket I got for Christmas.

It's got such a fun cut, with the sides kind of curved, leading to a longer length in the back. My oldest sister found it at a boutique downtown (that I forgot the name of, but will find out soon!) that exclusively sells imports from Tokyo. I feel supa-trendy when I wear it.

Well, I think I'm off to spend time with another sister (they seem to abound in my household) who heads back to school tomorrow.

But before I go...

Sometimes friends, I photograph so miserably I simply can't justify not sharing it with you. (Though I should probably reconsider this practice.)

I'm not entirely sure what I was thinking here, but judging from the distressed look upon my face I imagine I was simply uttering Lizzie's very appropriate response to Kate Sanders, or in my case, the imaginary fashion editors following my every move and commenting snidely on my repetitive apparel with a dignified:

"I may be an outfit repeater, but you're an outfit rememberer, which is just as pathetic!"

Well said, Elizabeth.

And then I would hitch that pomeranian-adorned yard flag (my mother's subtle ode to our dog, Scout) over my chic shoulder and march away proudly in my recycled wares.

You know, theoretically.

Happy Sunday :]

Literal Interpretation.

2010-01-06T21:30:00.005-06:00

Worn JANUARY 4, 2009

Cardigan: Gap
Blouse: French Connection
Skirt: Tommy Hilfiger Outlet
Tights: Betsey Johnson
Belt: Walmart
Flats: Urban Outfitters (birthday gift from my sister)

Hello readers, & welcome to my first post of 2010! Sorry it's been awhile since I posted, but the photos of the last couple of outfits I've shot just haven't turned out.

But on the day these pictures were taken the weather was nice & crisp and the sun, as you can tell, was just wonderful!

My sister and I had the day to ourselves, so we decided to investigate the new library that's just been built near our house.

So maybe it was the destination in mind, but the feel of my outfit turned out decidedly bookish. Probably due to my haphazardly piled curls, and of course- the official blog debut of my glasses.

I have a love-hate relationship with said spectacles. Designed under the label of none otha than a little J to the Lo, they break frequently, are a bit lopsided, and perhaps most offensively, seem to grow legs.

Seriously, I'm sure every unfortunate person affiliated with me has had to endure my moan of "Have you seen my glasses?" I officially extend my apologies to all who have had the misfortune of crawling on all fours, shifting mattresses & bed frames, or shaking out purses and backpacks to aid in my (usually fruitless) searching endeavors.

But I was wearing them the whole time I was dressing & they felt like part of the outfit by then. Meh. Whatevs. NBD. Non-committal shrug. Okay, I'm done :]

Oh, and of course- nothing like a little CSD: I got this $50 skirt for nine. dollars. I maybe squeed a bit when it rang up. (Yes, 'squee' is a word. Promise.)

Almost beats the discounted Christmas ribbon I got for .19 cents this weekend! Ah, my inner old lady emerges once more.

Maybe I should give her a name? Hm. Feel free to provide suggestions.

Dawn awaits redemption.

2009-12-28T22:13:00.006-06:00

Ah, as the ever significant Eve approaches, I find myself looking at the past twelve months with... mixed emotions.

I have made many mistakes, experienced challenges I did not know could exist, and of course, possessed at long last the knowledge that only a hard-earned combination of regret and loss can achieve.

Such a phenomenon that can only be christened as learning, I suppose.

Hmm. Perhaps a bit heavy for a Wednesday night musing on a fashion blog :]

All this to say that in terms of growth, and due to my own obstinance, perhaps a high cost is necessary to render result.

Before I continue to aid you in your attempts to quickly approach sleep, I hope you have all had a very good, very meaningful, very happy year.

Here's to the next, and I pray you all have a good time ringing it in with people you love.

And, though I am fully aware of my own tendency to show extreme leniency with myself... I simply can't resist a few resolutions:

1) To run more. It always makes me feel better, more connected to myself & God.

2) To make my room a happier place to be in. Re: Finally find a comforter to match a few lovely pillows I found at Target months ago. I want my space to be kind of garden-themed, maybe pick flowers every now & then.

3) To love better. So many opportunities every day to love with everything. I think the worst kind of regret has to be that which is tied to not giving the full ferocity of the heart to one you love.

4) To cultivate myself, and appreciate the elusive & magnificent gift of solitude.

I believe that may be all I can expect of myself resolutions-wise :]

One more time, I hope you all have a wonderful New Year's Eve & Day!

Blouse: Target
Skirt: Target, borrowed from my sister
Belt: Forever 21
Tights: ?
Heels: Target

Happy (very belated!) Holidays :]

2009-12-26T21:51:00.005-06:00

Worn: DECEMBER 25, 2009

Coat: Gap (wayyy on sale.)
Turtleneck: Old Navy
Skirt: Urban Outfitters (Christmas gift from my mom!)
Tights: Forever 21
Boots: Belk
Belt: Urban Outfitters

Hello, dear readers! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas! I did as well, and was very lucky to enjoy some much-appreciated time with my family.

I also got some very thoughtful presents! I'm kind of a craftypants, and the grandmother that I am (that usually manifests itself in my unique ability to talk myself into purchasing yet another cardigan or massive shoulder bag with unrealistic claims of "But- I'll just use it for school... you know, my books??"... Hm. This is quite a long parenthetical aside. Anywho-) squealed in pleasure when I unwrapped the.most.legit.craftbag.ever. Ah,endless pockets for ribbon and buttons and scissors and big enough that the edges of my paper won't get bent!

Exciting times.

Cold weather finally came to Texas just in time for Christmas, so I tried to keep my outfit for the big day nice and cozy. This arrived in the form of my huge and amazing turtleneck and new sweater tights.

I wasn't too sure how comfortable the tights would be, but I wore them all day and they definitely were. I am not, however, cold-natured at all, so after a couple demanding rounds of Cranium and Guesstures, I was a bit toasty :]

I don't really wear too much brown or navy, but I totally loved these colors altogether. Definitely inspiring me to experiment a little with different color stories.

Anywho, I am currently watching a very creepy sci-fi flick with my dad and sister- the former of who laughs at the exaggerated gore, and the latter who is a wimp like me and gasps and recoils in all the right places like the big suckers we are. So as you know, a very pressing engagement :]

Hope you had a wonderful, safe weekend!

I'm on my feet, I'm on the floor, I'm good to go.

2009-12-21T00:11:00.000-06:00

Worn DECEMBER 19, 2009

Sweater: American Eagle via Marshall's
Blouse: French Connection
Skirt: Target
Tights: Hue via Ross
Shoes: Thrifted
Pearls: Target
Belt: Urban Outfitters... kinda

After a week of tests and (pretending to do lots of) studying, I am finally returned to the proverbial city of my youth. Ah, Houston, in all your city smog and slick shiny storefronts.... I feel it may be in my veins to love you.

Just in time for some long-awaited chillaxin, Saturday night was my oldest sister Juanita's birthday party- lucky numba 27. (Hopefully I didn't just reveal a secret.)It was a very raucous affair, complete with an organic birthday cake, Coke Zero for my underage self, and a little Scrabble slam.

Jesting aside, it was very nice to celebrate and the birthday girl looked just lovely, decked out in sequins and an adorable new pixie cut. I hope to have a picture of her up soon! As soon as our genetic procrastination lets up a bit and she sends me our picture :]

I got this sweater super cheap recently and I just love the punchy tomato red. It's actually really long and is quite fitted around the hips, so I was able to tuck it into my skirt. Lately I've been loving the way cream and black and brown pair up together, so you'll probably be seeing a lot of that soon :]

And now dear readers, forgive me as I continue to wax on about how nice it is to be home. I feel sometimes as if the romance of the city is viewed as inferior in regards to its pastoral counterpart. Perhaps such is the ingrained nature of the born and bred city girl, but I must disagree.

The stars are much too beautful to not create a nightly display of their celestial weight, but the time also comes when they must bow graciously- allowing us mere mortals to breathe a sigh of relief upon coming home after too long and delighting in a familiar and lit up skyline.

Chili, chili evening.

2009-12-14T12:04:00.000-06:00

Worn DECEMBER 9, 2009

Mini Dress (Worn as a top): Rampage, via Marshall's
Skirt: Target
Heels: Target
Tights: The Tights God (i.e. I don't know.)
Pearls: Thrifted
Clutch: Banana Republic (and my mom's closet...)

(Oh finals week- how my titular puns must suffer at your cruel, unrelenting hand.)

At last, my outfit posts return!! I just got out of a very long, very tedious, very consisty of 14-pages-of-correcting-grammatical-errors final, so... I think I might not only be allowed to muse on fashion for a bit, but also temporarily possess enough linguistic leniency to use the word consisty.

So there, Dr. Mayer.

I resisted the urge of misusing the comma in the previous sentence. College can only induce so much rebellion, you know.

Anyway, I promise finals are not making me lose my mind completely. But perhaps in an attempt to salvage our sanity, my three best girlfriends and I went out to dinner on Wednesday and got nice and gussied up.

Because as we all know, the crowd at Chili's will only accept the fanciest. The evening always begans with grand ambitions to go to the nicest restaurant in town, but it closes earlyearly, and four women tend to take a bit of time to centrally convene.

I headed to dinner fresh out of a five-hour long group project meeting (moan,groan,general-outcry-of-dismay), so I needed something easy, but I really wanted to keep it pretty classy. So after staring at the only 5 inches of my leg not exposed in the Rampage dress, I opted to throw this fun, ultra girly skirt over it.

I added all the sleek black accents to keep it nice and grown up, and I really liked how feminine it came out. It's been awhile since I got (cringe allowed at the use of this phrase) all dolled up.

But perhaps the most attention-garnering facet of the whole outing were the three stunning ladies I was in the company of. Chili's will perhaps never be the same again :]

So, a bit more studying still left to do, but seeing as how I just got my room spotless, the temptation of recreating the disaster zone by pulling out a few sewing projects may prove to be far too tempting.

Happy Monday :]

P.S. New haircut! I am in love.

Strapping young thing.

2009-11-21T19:30:00.000-06:00

Shirt: Target
Skirt: Old Navy
Belt: Purse strap from an Urban Outfitters bag
Tights: Target?
Shoes: Thrifted
Bracelet: Gift
Initial Necklace: Birthday gift from Urban Outfitters

So, let's all ignore the odd contortion that is my face in the above picture. The batteries in my camera were very upset with me for exhausting them and therefore only allowed me one picture before hopelessly shutting down.

Anyway, to the outfit. I really wanted to wear this shirt with something other than jeans, but I do think it looks nice with denim, so that's how this was born.

The shirt tapers in with an elasticized waist, so I had to hitch the skirt up, making it a bit too roomy. So, resourceful receiver of hand-me-downs and thrifted items that I am, I folded the waist of the skirt to create a front pleat and took the super long strap of my Urban satchel and resized it for my waist!!

Forgive the double exclamation point, but I was quite proud of myself.

Primary source.

2009-11-10T01:25:00.000-06:00

Worn: sometime last week

Top: French Connection
Skirt: Thrifted
Tights: Target
Flats: Steve Madden
Pearls: Target

Forgive the vague date reference, I know it was for last Thursday, so whichever lovely November day that happened to be.

This was worn for a presentation all about gloves for my Specialty Merchandising class. So maybe it was appropriate to wear something mildy refined. Refined at the cost of 3.99, which was how much I paid for this skirt. Ah, CSD (Compulsive Sale Disclosure) someday I will learn to control you :]

Anyway, I was drawn to put my size 8 self into this size 6 number because I loved the bright primary colors all together against the black. At first I considered adding a cobalt top, but the cream really makes the red, yellow, and blue pop and adds a nice sort of whimsy to such a structured fabric.

I wanted to keep the effect from being too serious, hence the pointy little flats and pearl necklace as a multi-strand bracelet- not to mention floppy hair tie. I got some compliments when I wore this, which always helps when standing in front of 26 fashion students describing in exhaustive detail the anatomy of a glove.

But do not grieve being absent from such a scintillating affair, I can send you the notes.

Sunflower.

2009-11-08T11:51:00.000-06:00

Worn NOVEMBER 1, 2009

Dress: Anthropologie
Heels: Target
Bangle: Forever 21
Bunny: Polvo- Spanish for "dust", as in dust bunny :]

The weather was lovely Sunday, and this dress seemed to match the beauty. I try not to wear it very often. It's pretty memorable, yes, but I also like saving it for special times. Isn't the detail ridiculously gorgeous? I love it.

My sister actually gave it to me after she lost a bit of weight. I was mildly offended for a second, but then it was so perfect I was happy for the extra inches on my waist!

I kept the rest of the ensemble kind of simple, hence the black heels and bangle. Oh the sun was just wonderful that day! I'm staying with two close friends, who happen to have two pet bunnies, who happen to be much too wonderful and cuddly to not snuggle with, which is why I'm hugging him so close :]

Hope you're having a lovely Sunday.

Grey gardens.

2009-11-01T18:22:00.000-06:00

Worn OCTOBER 27, 2009

Dress: Forever 21
Blazer: Levi's, thrifted
Tights: No idea
Flats: Steve Madden
Belt: Taken from a Mint dress
Headband: Taken from a Target shirtdress
Pearl Bracelet: Thrifted

So things have been a bit rough lately, but I've found that dressing even a tiny bit fancier than usual always seems to help during the day. I feel a bit uplifted everytime I remember I'm wearing a dress I love, or a color that makes me happy.

Here it's grey, which is my favorite color. I always get teased when I admit this, but it's true! It's so lovely, so soft. Luckily the fashion world seems to have gone with me on this tangent.

I do love this dress. It's never worked quite as well as it did when I wore it Tuesday, which is fortunate due to the fact that I threw it on while running late to class. I was planning on wearing a fairly boring sweater and jeans ensemble, but realized it probably wouldn't boost my mood. Luckily this did the job.

Bear with me over the next few weeks, I may not be the perkiest, but I do love keeping up with this blog, so keep checking back.

2 Corinthians 12:9 & 10

Keeping track.

2009-10-30T13:01:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 26TH, 2009

Dress: Target

Tights: Target

Sweater: Target

Shoes: Thrifted

Bag: Urban Outfitters

Hm. Sometimes I think my closet might actually be a portal to the stock room at Target... I'm okay with that.

Anywho, Monday morning it was very cold, possibly a bit too cold to wear a sweater without long sleeves, but whoever said fashion had to be sensible? Although it would have been nice. At least my legs were nice and warm in these tights.

I remember when I saw them about two years ago I just had to have them, but I've really only started wearing them recently. A really nice alternative to black tights, which is what I seem to wear all the time.

I really liked how all the rainy-day colors just fit well together- grey and navy and brown. Colors that seemed at home on railroad tracks, and (almost) managed to make my battered old umbrella look good.

In a fiery state.

2009-10-27T21:23:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 23, 2009

Jacket: American Eagle
Cardigan: Urban Outfitters (my boyfriend's)
Dress: Target
Tights: ?
Shoes: Thrifted

Here I am (with my very stylish bestie, Candace) the Friday of Homecoming weekend. Apparently it's this very big deal for Texas colleges. Or so I've heard.

Joking aside, I've always lived in Texas and therefore been aware of such holy traditions, but I think I temporarily fell into an amnesiatic state my freshman year. I walked to the stadium alone to meet friends already there for my very first football game of college and plunged into the purple-t-shirt-wearing blanket of a crowd... wearing a neon yellow sweater.

Ah, the dirty looks... ah, indifference.

Anyway, back to the outfit. I always feel a little insecure fashion-wise at the onset of winter. It seems as if I find my warm-dressing-niche right around March, and then get so excited to wear shorts again that in my anticipatory summer frenzy I forget everything I learned. And this was the first night it was really cold, appropriate for the annual pre-Homecoming bonfire: one extremely muddy field, a sub-par garage band, high school kids posing as collegiates... nothing quite like it.

So I layered a lot, which I don't normally do because I feel like it really makes me lose my shape, but I was pleased with how this turned out- I don't know, the black and white with the olive and brown... it just felt cool.

I like this jacket a lot. It was my first real piece of outerwear that wasn't puffy or neon, purchased my freshman year of high school. It's held up really well, considering that was six years ago. And I actually bought the striped sweater underneath for my boyfriend last Christmas but steal it occassionally because I like it so much. He doesn't mind.... I think.

Anyway, I am exhausted due to late night girl-talk with my lovely roommate last night, and am now eyeing my bed longingly.

Goodnight, all.

P.S. Strangely enough I haven't been to a game since my ol' Yellow Jack appearance, but I've heard tell... that we won!

Blame it on the rain... my huge hair, that is.

2009-10-26T22:01:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 21, 2009

Sweater (turtleneck?): Old Navy
Shorts: Target
Tights: Walmart
Belt: Taken from a Mint dress
Bird Charm: Forever 21
Flats: Coach
Bangle: Forever 21

Last Wednesday was one of those mornings when I woke up and felt like my eyes were closed for the first thirty minutes or so of my day. It was chilly, rainy, and I woke up only a bit before class- ah, nothing beats the study of rocks at ten am! :]

Luckily, I had gotten this sweater the night before- for 8 dollas! There goes my disorder again- Compulsive Sale Disclosure, we'll label it. Anywho, it's made out of about 14,000 different materials, some natural, some man-made, but all of these ingredients make for a seriously cozy sweater.

I generally tend to stay away from turtlenecks because my face is about as round as a penny, but I made an exception for this one. In my Apparel I class we studied face shapes and how they affect the appearance of certain garment necklines, and we literally had to sit as my professor went from table to table to evaluate our face and neck shapes. Here, the staggering tact of one Dr. Kenner: "Yes, I would say you're almost a perfect circle. Now, your neck... It's short, but the width is good!"

Well thank-you, ma'am. I will notify my ancestry of your approval.

Moving on, I paired these tights with shorts to get out of my current black tights, black dress/skirt rut, but I was really pleased with the city girl polish that came through.

Anyway, a fairly simple outfit, but still cozy. Which was quite the hindrance in my valiant efforts to remain awake in Geology.

Scout's honor.

2009-10-23T11:28:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 20, 2009

Shirt: Army Surplus
Skirt: Target
Tights: quien sabe?
Flats: Steve Madden
Pin: My mama
Sunglasses: Forever 21

On Tuesday it felt lovely outside, and this crisp little shirt let all the breeze in while my tights kept me warm. I've had this shirt since I was about 14 from when I was in our church's Christmas play.

I don't think the director (who was, incidentally, my sister)intended for me to ever again wear a part of my- prepare yourself- Russian general's costume, but it's super versatile. I look a bit girl scout-y here, but I've always felt like I was missing an integral part of my childhood, having nevery been a fine pastry salesgirl...

Anywho, I always feel kinda cool in this top, because it's a genuine Army shirt. Works with jeans or denim shorts, but this is the first time I've ever worn it with a skirt.

Which, by the way, I got on sale this weekend for 8 dollas! Whenever someone compliments me on something I got a good deal on, I have this ridiculous compulsion to tell them how much I paid for it. Like my wonderful dark green coat from Gap (that will probably make a debut soon, it's just still pretty warm in Texas) whose price after multiple markdowns was probably divulged to about 28 people. Yikes.

Anyway, to round everything out, my mom was cleaning out her jewelry boxes when I went home this weekend, and I happened to be talking to her in her room at the time. I felt a bit like a gleaner in a hay field, but I was pretty excited with the loot. This lovely pin is one of my new treasures, and hopefully I'll have a more detailed shot of it soon.

Quite a bit of outfit musing today, but I didn't feel like russian.

get it? (rushin'?)

Okay. I'm done :]

Animal Farm

2009-10-21T00:18:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 19, 2009

Blazer: Levi's, thrifted
Blouse: Thrifted
Jeans: 2BWU, Marshall's
Shoes: Thrifted
Cameo pin: Gift from my mom found at an Antique Store
Hair ribbon: Cut from my massive collection of Valentine ribbon. I think this one was from Target

It felt lovely on Monday and I was in a peaceful mood, so I wore this very pretty blouse that I'm mostly sure belonged to a grandma. I'm okay with that.

I thought the blazer made the apricot of the blouse look nice and soft, and the fancy little red flats kinda kept it fun. I don't really know why the ribbon happened, but maybe I was channeling Blair.

Think less Upper East Side and more Upper East Texas. Because who needs New York when I can have a boy in my Geology lab ask if, when wearing said fancy little red flats, if my feet were quote: "pointy at the end of the day".

Ah, Nacogdoches... how you slay me.

p.s. Isn't this mural kind of awesome? It's in such a random place- a parking lot on the side of CVS. But it's huge, complete with the ol' sinners Adam & Eve and reads: Animals. It's their world, too. Only in Nac, which is pretty special, even I must admit :]

Off-duty.

2009-10-20T11:36:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 17, 2009

Shirt: Antique store
Dress: American Eagle (worn as skirt)
Belt: Walmart
Shoes: Shi by Journey's

I went home to Houston this weekend and ended up wearing this for a girl's day with my mom and 3 older sisters to see Whip It (which did Devo proud) and for some quality Hobby Lobby time.

All those racks of specialty paper and fabric... mmm.

Grandmotherly tendencies aside, walking around all of the fall decor, I made a discovery: I was dressed in weekend scarecrow attire. After a long week of frightening small winged creatures, I'd merely swapped my overalls for a skirt and went along my merry way.

But still... I like this outfit. I thought the colors played off each other really well. I guess this outfit is kind of an ode to fall. And as a family of women, protection from crows is always appreciated.

P.S. Sadly, a sore knee doesn't exactly contribute to good style. Hence the tape.

Wasn't born to lose you.

2009-10-18T13:46:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 15, 2009

V-neck: American Apparel
Skirt: Target
Tights: Walmart
Flats: Steve Madden
Beads: Forever 21
Bag: Urban Outfitters
Sunglasses: Forever 21

One word here... bright! The weather finally lifted on Thursday & so maybe I was subconsciously celebrating with this outfit.

I wish I could multiply the fabric on this skirt and make it into a dress or a coat. It's such a lovely, lovely print- kind of whimsical but still really beautiful.

Me & the photog were soon-to-be late to class, so after laughing hysterically and running across parking lots and alarmed students, we stopped for about five seconds against a dorm building. Maybe because we were breathless and happy, but I think these turned out really nice.

Good day, good picture, good moment.

High Roller.

2009-10-17T17:38:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 14, 2009

Dress: Forever 21
Cardigan: Mark
Belt: Forever 21
Shoes: Target
Bangle: Forever 21

Wednesday was kind of a low-key day, outfit & mood-wise. So I went with a simple silhouette, just a dress and sweater combo. I've always really liked this dess because I think the mix of a mod-ish print and fun hem is kind of perfect.

And to spice it up a little I put on the leopard belt, which doesn't quite work with the print, but somehow... kind of works. And these little shoes from Target are pretty wonderful. They give a bit of height, but happily, the usual teetering that generally ensues when me and heels spend time together is avoided.

Always a good thing, because I can probably get around better in a pair of skates than 3 inchers. Hey, small steps, right?

Shine Until Tomorrow

2009-10-16T16:08:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 13, 2009

Shirt: Boyfriend's
Jeans: 2BWU
Belt: Walmart
Shoes: Thrifted
Bangle: Target (maybe?)
Bag: Urban Outfitters

I don't know if it's possible to see my face clearly through the opaque walls of humidity surrounding my body... but maybe.

I'd originally planned to wear this shirt underneath a lean little Levi's blazer (that I got for two dolla!) & nice, sleek hair but it felt just plain awful outside on Tuesday and I caved.

Hence the massive sleeve rolls on the shirt I'm supposed to be altering for my boyfriend (but that very suspiciously keeps appearing on my body instead) and massive, untameable waves.

I liked the kind of messy-prep end result, though, especially the boyish direction it went in with the oxford shoes. I've had them forever, but this marks the first time I've actually worn them. I've been a tad more experimental lately, apart from my usual uniform of dress-belt-flats & done.

Oddly empowering, in a new haircut kind of way- still me, but a different spin.

Whistle-blowa

2009-10-14T17:13:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 12, 2009

Sweater: Target
Black mini: Target
Tights: No idea
Flats: Steve Madden
Necklace: Swiped from one of my sisters
Bronze bracelet: Gift from a friend who studied abroad in Italia

If I look slightly distracted in these pictures, it might be because my boyfriend & I found this building huddled behind a parking lot full of construction trucks.

Every so often, a burly roughneck would make his way from some unknown location (perhaps a Construction Worker's Whistling Seminar) and I would have a minor nervous breakdown and start hissing "Stop, that dude's going to think I'm a weirdo!"

And then we would wait. In the rain... until said burly roughneck was gone.

But moving on, this outfit was kind of an accident. I'd pulled out a bunch of businessy looking things for another occasion, and after being too lazy to reapproach my closet to get dressed for class, this little number was born. Not quite business casual, but I'm stickin' it to the man.

I got this skirt pretty cheap at the ol' bullseye (pretend that didn't happen- I have officially been departed from the city too long.) fully aware it would eventually pill, but it's held up pretty well so far, and always makes things feel kind of gritty in a good way. Which is totally possible. I think.

Skipped a couple of days blogging, and for my scads of readers, I know that was an ordeal, but I promise you didn't miss too much. I was a gypsy all day for a Halloween festival on Saturday & after yanking off my church outfit, spent Sunday slummin' in a flannel button-down & denim shorts.

But my boyfriend says I always look nice. I am dating a liar.

Anywho, I have mounds of laundry I am currently deluding myself into thinking I'll fold, so peace out mutha uckas!

Houston, I hear you calling my name, and I dearly hope that was a trashy enough response.

Wallflower.

2009-10-14T15:20:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 9, 2009

Dress: Forever 21
Cardigan: Mark by Avon
Tights: Target
Belt: Walmart
Ring: Avon
Flats: Steve Madden
Big Hair: Rain, rain, rain.

Friday dawned, overcast and humid. But as the outfit description reads, it's probably very obvious that I am not bitter about the rain... maybe.

A little before noon, however, I did have a nice pick-me-up when I peered hopefully into my draftly little post ofice box, and there it was: the holy yellow slip of paper.

Because, at my fine institution of learning, friends, the yellow slip means only one thing: PACKAGE.

So I retrieved said slip, held it above my head (but you know, more like at my side) with pride and strutted to the counter as the lucky recipient. And after a quick display of my revolting ID picture, which hopefully was one little spot of amusement for the rather tired-looking mail station attendant, I skipped back to my dorm room.

Awaiting inside my package was the most perfect, effortless black cardigan and the saucy little flats pictured above. And only after a lengthy happy dance, I immediately swapped out my ho hum, holey grey sweater for the cardi & slipped on my new pointy & woven wonders.

Though I am supposedly an adult, I still get warm and fuzzy from such wonderful goodies from my wonderful mom!

Anywho, it was rainy all day, & this combo worked very well. The tights kept me warm and dry, the sweater was delightfully light and it was nice to still wear a dress even though it wasn't the best weather.

I love this sweater and am currently blogging in it :] It's 100% Tencel, a fabric known for its incredible softness. It's also very eco-friendly, so textile manufacturers are hoping to make it the next Rayon, whose production process is extremely damaging to the environment. So if ever possible, always go for Tencel!

'Til next time, and don't forget to send your postal workers a friendly hello!

Paint it white.

2009-10-11T21:35:00.000-05:00

Worn OCTOBER 8, 2009

Ruffled blouse: French Connection

Lace Skirt: Target

Shoes: Shi by Journey's

Belt: Walmart

Rose Bobby Pin: Forever 21

Leaf Pin: Sassafrass Festival :]

Here I am, in very uncharacteristic all white. (I can almost detect my mounting collection of black dresses weeping from my closet door.)But Thursday morning I laid this skirt on my bed & refused to let myself be conquered by its pale parapets, such as:

-Awkward length

-Paneled hem? (Not inappropriate punctuation, I merely find it peculiar)

-My unique & childlike incompetency to keep white materials white

However, after overthinking the battle plans spread across my pillow for an embarrassing amount of time, I remembered this lovely blouse I got 50% off (what, what!) from French Connection a couple of months ago. It was still a splurge for a collegiate & unemployed bargain hunter, but it adds a delicate elegance to any outfit I wear.

So friends, at the end of the day, though I realized I spent it wearing white on rice, I did feel pretty.

And do not mourn, my dark little lovelies, I will still don you in my attachment.

Hm. As glorified as the LBD is, should one grow concerned when actual dialogue takes place?

Alas, somehow concern seems to require far too much seriousness, a trait I find deplorable.

A dollop of daisy.

2009-10-08T13:16:00.001-05:00

OCTOBER 7, 2009

Ruffle blouse: Target

Golden skirt: Target

Belt: Walmart

Sandals: Target (Apparently the place has a monopoly on my wardrobe today.)

Pearl Bracelet: (not seen) vintage

If I've just put the most annoyingly catchy dairy topping jingle of all time in your head..... I am deeply sorry.

Anywho...

I do like this outfit a lot. I'm not entirely sure how it happened, because I've had this skirt for two years and have worn it exactly once. It was a hand-me-down from the oldest one of my Three & I've always liked the color, just haven't been able to make it work. Until now- success!

I bought this shirt last January, I believe with the intention of wearing it on Valentine's Day. I don't know if I did after all, but I must admit: I am completely obsessed with the holiday. It's kind of my favorite and I may or may not spend hours making my friends hand-made valentines and goodie bags. Hey, we all have our vices, right? Mine just happens to be love.

(not stolen out of a Hallmark card, cross my heart.)

After putting everything together, I reached for my Marc Jacobs Daisy perfume & realized I matched the bottle. I adore this one. I recently got Lola for my birthday, which smells so divine, but sometimes it's just a girl-next-door Daisy day.

I'm only humid, after all.

2009-10-08T10:26:00.000-05:00

OCTOBER 6, 2009

White V-neck: Fruit of the Loom 6-pack from Walmart
Black Mini-skirt: Target
Turquoise Necklace: My mom's?
Sandals: Target

I woke up on Tuesday to bad congestion and my frigid dorm room. After rolling out of bed in an oversized Bruce Springsteen t-shirt, I glanced at my closet, eyeing me pitifully.

But guilt be damned, I shrugged on a pair of jeans and cardigan and slumped away to class. But, oh the price one pays when forsaking their closet... or just the daily weather report.

I was out and about for one hour, enough time to not only fully destroy my freshly blown out hair, but also to be swathed in enough humidity to last a lifetime.

When I finally returned to my now greatly appreciated icy abyss of a dorm room, I reached directly for my running uniform: White v-neck & whatever pair of black Nike shorts my hand happens to grasp first.

Inspiration, how sly you are!

Because, it was due to this brief vacacion in Alaska (or the 4th floor) that I traipsed back out into the 90 degree heat in a wonderfully light ensemble. Sure, the mini kept me off of my bike, (so keeping my undies hidden from large amounts of my college's population) but my legs were too busy enjoying the world again to notice the walk.

Hello darkness, my old friend.

2009-10-06T19:47:00.000-05:00

Leatha Jacket (faux!): Forever 21
Floral Top: No idea. My aunt gave it to my 3 sisters and I as a communal gift.
Jeans: 2BWU
Shoes: Coach
Black Square Ring: Avon

The Breakdown:

Now that I've nailed it all down, I'm beginning to wonder if I should be a little alarmed that most of what I'm wearing there was free. But now I must reprimand myself for not being completely joyful and smug. That's right, everyone, read 'em and weep!

... too bold?

So the jacket was found at Forever 21 and makes me feel pretty tough. As it rightly should, seeing as how the fateful day of its purchase marks one of the four occasions in my life when I've been competitive.

At the downtown H-town F21 store (why all of my escapades seem to take place amongst those hallowed walls is beyond me) I suddenly heard the chorus of Dream Weaver, melodic and faint, coming to my ears on blessed clouds of bliss. And as I turned to better see its origin, there it was: The perfect faux leather jacket that had been dancing, unattainable in my mind's eye for months. I approached it on its perch high atop a stand-alone metal rack, and pulled, eager to quench the thirst of my imagination, already orchestrating a thousand and one outfits...

And then, I pulled again. And again, harder. Was it merely an oasis? Was this some hysteria received from being drunk on too many fashion magazines?

No, friends, it was a person. A girl, actually. A very tall girl, actually. With "I-can-and-will-cut-you fingernails."

Two choices: fight or flight.

While my mind fleetingly thought of uttering a politely mumbled, "Oh, sorry." and shuffling away cowardly, I said to myself: "Self: Yes, you've been coddled away in Suburbia, but let us not forget your origins in da HOOD."

After this inner-city pep talk, I gave an almighty tug, fight instincts fully on display, and with a primal growl and yanking of the hanger, wielding it as my formidable weapon....... promptly took flight to the register.

Sometimes nice girls finish first, suckas! :]

Anywho, the rest of this description will probably feel pretty lackluster after such a harrowing recount, but stick with me.

I lurve this shirt. As stated, my aunt gave it to me & my Three, who all gave it the cold shoulder. But I SO love this print. It's like this perfect portrait of a winter day when you still find one tree that's flowering. So pretty against the steely gray bits. That's why I think it's great to tie it all in when the other pieces are kind of rough: leather, skinnies, and dark flats.

Of the jean label, no idea, but they fit well, and I love how dark they are. Marshall's, I salute you.

I went through a period when I LIVED in these flats. But, then the deteriorating bottom sole politely asked if I would move, so I took the hint and now wear them maybe once a week.

All in all, a pretty okay outfit. I started getting really sick the day before I wore this, so I reached for this ensemble, easy and comfy, but I still feel kinda cool.

Very important, in case Longfingers is still on the hunt for me :]

I've always hated introductions.

2009-10-05T11:01:00.000-05:00

"It's Ernie."

"What?"

"ERnie."

"Oh! Bernie."

"...Yes."

After suffering a shameful evening or two (or seven) being called Bernie, I now embark upon the wonderful world of blogging, where my name sits in glorious text, unmarred by my mumbles.

I felt a tad vain when I first thought of starting a daily outfit blog, but my outfits are my art, just as a writer publishes his novels, and a bearded philosopher his musings... Strange detour, maybe :]

Now, lengthy introductions saved for a later occasion, so it begins!

I've taken some pictures the last few days, so I can start this off with a sizeable post to fool you all into thinking I am organized and in ardent protest of miscreant procrastinators. (Although I may have just given myself away.)

OCTOBER 2nd, 2009

Top: American Eagle Outfitters (christmas gift from my sista)

Skirt: Thrifted

Belt: Wal-Mart

Shoes: Shi by Journey's

Gold Bangle: Forever 21

The Breakdown:

I really had fun wearing this. I found the skirt hidden behind a shoulder-padded boxy jacket of the same material and was in love. The skirt actually hit at about my ankles, so I turned it into a bubble hem.

I wanted to keep everything else simple because it's such a vibrant print, so I paired it with my current go-to-even-though-I've-worn-it-for-days-combo: My tan belt & matching tan shoes.

OCTOBER 3rd, 2009

Cardigan: Twelve by Twelve (offshoot of Forever 21)

Top: Violet & Claire (Marshall's)

Skirt: Old Navy

Belt: Wal-Mart

Shoes: Signature by Shi

Sunglasses: My boyfriend's (worn only to hide my deplorably cosmetic-free face)

The Breakdown:

I was going to a little girl's birthday party the past Saturday night, so I figured I was allowed to be as girly as I wanted. I love the collar of this shirt, it's very soft, very feminine, so I tucked it into this skirt to keep it from being too soft and turning my shape to jell-o.

Incidentally, I adore this skirt for its versatility and simple statement, so it will probably make multiple appearances.

I'm kind of an old lady, so my cardigan collection is ever-mounting. I found this one in a hidden upstairs corner of the huge Forever 21 in downtown H-town.

As I was rabidly raking through the hangers to find my size (contrary to what it seems, I just don't foresee ever being an XS) the concerned sales girl asked if I needed help, to which I returned a breathless "Um.. no. Just... need my size."

After which, I made my exit in haste and slight shame.

But I'd say, well worth it :]

OCTOBER 4th, 2009

Sweater: J. Crew, thrifted

Top: Rampage

Pencil Skirt: Forever 21

Belt: Forever 21

Heels: Isaac Mizrahi for Target

Pearl Necklace: Swiped from my sister

Pearl Bracelet: Target

This was intended to only be for Sunday morning at church, but I ended up wearing it all day. Hence, the forced smile as my feet mutter curses at me for being in heels. I am not.not.not. a heels girl, but I pretend every so often.

I love the almost neon color of this sweater, but to keep it from being too grandmotherly, I added the fun leopard. I liked the base of black with all the color and print already happening, but I think the allure of the pencil and pumps kept it polished.

Looking at this outfit at the end of the day I couldn't help but think: Saucy librarian or super cool old lady? We'll go with the former :]

More to come soon!