Unstoppable Style

before they were sampled...

2012-02-12T14:27:00.000-08:00

in lieu of the normal sunday mixes (and because i'm up this late after studying and now want to bullshit), i give you something different.

do you guys ever hear a song on the radio, wrinkle your eyebrows and go, wait a minute, i've totally heard this song before? i do that all the time. and then you basically figure out who the artist stole their rhythm/melody/beat/vocals from.

i think its interesting to note where the songs came from. even more interesting is how the general public casually ignores the original source. the mainstream artists everyone knows and loves borrows from really good, really unknown music, and no one particularly cares to dig a little deeper.

*steps off soapbox* anyways...

the eighth track from stevens' 2010 release, the age of adz features a seemingly heartbroken sufjan crying out "why does it have to be so hard?" amongst glitchy sound effects and high-pitched flutes. though the album was stevens' most successful work to date and cracked the billboard top 200--in the top 10, at that--the track wasn't popularized until just a few months later.

mac miller sampled the sing-songy vocals lurking in the background for one of his biggest singles. needless to say, there's probably a zillion people who still have no idea who sufjan stevens is.

diplo and switch's lovechild features vybz kartel and probably the catchiest beat ever. the reggae artist is made up of two generally unknown white producers, yet they still managed to catch the attention of one of the biggest pop stars in eternity, who apparently wanted to switch--no pun intended--up her sound for her fourth album.

beyonce's pseudo-anthem garnered 121 million views on youtube, and gave ammo to youtube comedian glozell to confuse "girls" with a fuzzy animal known for straddling nuts in their jaws.

of course, everyone remembers duckie from "pretty in pink" losing his lily white mind to this song in the record store. apparently, two of the biggest rappers in eternity caught on as well, sharing duckie's love of the soulful gem.

jay-z and kanye west, AKA "the throne" came up with the most creative title for a song ever. the first name of the guy whose song you're sampling? genius.

preachy, dark, and almost creepy, depeche mode's cut from the 1990 album violator was bound to get sampled eventually. but who woulda thunk this?

buy it, use it, break it, fix it, trash it, change it, now upgrade it. then hand it over to a formerly dreadlocked rapper trying to switch up his image and try a little something new.

pharoahs

2012-02-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

sweater: forever 21
dress: forever 21 (technically thrifted)
boots: forever 21 (you get the idea)
bracelet: topshop
socks: bought years ago

i'm currently on deadline and writing a story about masturbation for the school newspaper. yes, you read that right, and no i'm not making this shit up. my oversexed ass...what a fitting topic.

it was ball-chillingly freezing yesterday, and not even the layering helped. but i looked cute, so it doesn't matter.

been so busy lately, and no one is ever around to take a few photos. hopefully this will change. i really wanna introduce consistency to this blog, something that left it a long time ago when the owner decided she was too lame to keep it up.

i've been bumping this song for a while. gotta love SBTRKT, even if i don't really like their album. doesn't the lead singer sound like james blake?

there's this theory i'm working on

2012-01-29T21:28:00.000-08:00

beret: H&M
necklace: topshop
top: american apparel
coat: H&M

okay, so this is the theory that i have come up with, when it comes to the hierarchy of clothing stores. it's sort of something like this:

Rainbow - cheap, ugly, skanktastic clothing only consumed by minorities. Lots of "clubwear."
Wetseal - Same as Rainbow, but a step above, since everyone knows what it is.
Charlotte Russe - Still cheap, but somewhat classy. Middle ground between Wetseal and A'Gaci.
A'Gaci - Forever 21's wanna-be little sister.
Forever 21 - Acceptable, cheap fashion mecca for everyone, despite the sweatshop claims, supposed copyright infringement, and obvious religious affiliation.
H&M - Totally acceptable amongst the fashionista set. Good enough to have designers submit their expensive clothes, cheap enough to solicit visitors with their promises of $5 this and $10 that.
Urban Outfitters - For the hipsters who think they're cool because they paid $75+ for something that looks like it costs way cheaper. Probably have no idea that the outlet exists.
American Apparel - They barely ever have sales and expect everyone to drop serious cash on a lame stirrup-legginged bodysuit. Tread carefully.
Topshop - H&M's cooler older sister. This bitch went to college, had at least four different boyfriends, and a life-altering epiphany that made her who she is today. Fucking expensive, and probably only for the richer set. Expect $50 shorts and $100 pairs of jeans if you so desperately want to look like Rihanna.

sunday mix #2

2012-01-29T12:37:00.000-08:00

oh hi there. unleashing unto the world the next set of songs with a theme, we have my next mix, titled colours. these songs represent titles that...yeah. correspond to different colors. note that i used the british spelling of the word. why? two reasons. hot chip crafted an excellent song--and the DFA an excellent remix--of the same title, and because it just plain looks cooler. that extra 'u' carries so much intrigue, don't you think?

Colours from Aspyn_jones on 8tracks.

far nearer

2012-01-23T22:12:00.000-08:00

ok, now refrain from looking into the lens because you look cooler that way

jacket: forever 21
dress: forever 21
hat: target
spike bracelet: forever 21
other bracelet: idk
boots: doc martens

i was going for sporty-british-feminine with this look. if that makes any sense. throw a baseball jacket over anything, and it adds instant sporty chic. i was wearing a black beret before, but the evil chicago winds blew it off my head and out of my life. :(

today was a rather shitty day. i fucked up at work in a major way, and i have to alert el boss lady tomorrow since she was out sick today. then i was the only person working there, meeting everyone's demands--i work in an office, so people like to ask about their folders and whatnot--and taking everyone's dicks in my ass. terrible. then i felt like my hair looked bad, then i couldn't find anyone to eat with since i hate eating alone and looking like a friendless loser and ARGHHHHHH!!!! luckily, everything is fine now, but you know those days when everything just comes to a head and you wanna punch the fuck out of a wall? today was that day.

this ad reminds me so much of my outfit. luella did go international for target back in 2004, and i coveted that tartan dress. never got it, but i figured the cheaper forever 21 green dress would suit me just fine.

i love luella bartley. she's so quirky, and her style is so adorably british. any remember the cherry skirt?

anyhoo, the inspiration behind the title of this post is jamie xx. he collaborated with gil-scott heron before he died, remixing his album, i'm new here, retitled, we're new here. his involvement in the xx renders him a producer of fuck music--n. music to shag to--and for some reason, this song feels like two people who finally admitted they like each other and are about to do the nasty. or is that my dirty mind? idk. anyways, this post is getting too long.

sunday mix

2012-01-22T14:32:00.000-08:00

welcome to the homework day. the sunday. the day where you're supposed to catch up on what you put off over the weekend because you were too busy partying/drinking/dancing or a combination of the three. instead of plowing into reading, i've instead, made a mix, the first of many i plan to introduce to the world, of music with themes. today's theme? songs with titles repeated 3x. enjoy!

Say it 3x from Aspyn_jones on 8tracks.

shit i want

2012-01-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

1 - Norma Kamali "Sleeping Bag" Camo Trench
2 - ASOS Rose Gold Skull Ring
3 - ASOS Heart-Shaped Sunglasses
4 - White Doc Martens
5 - Alice + Olivia Pleated Leather Mini
6 - Black Milk "Leg Bones" Leggings

7 - Ashish "Teen Idle" Sweatshirt
8 - Storets Translucent Oxfords (imagine how COOL they'd be with colored ankle socks!)

9 - Cambridge Satchel Fluorescent Pink Purse
10 - Alexander McQueen Tartan Print Dress
11 - Casio Gold Watch

my eye is on 8 and 2 because i could actually afford them...soon as i get my next, what, two to three paychecks?

what stuff are YOU guys salivating over?

sleeping lessons

2012-01-06T00:38:00.000-08:00

cardigan: forever 21

top: american apparel

pants: american apparel

necklace: forever 21

shoes: urban outfitters

sunglasses: forever 21

i am practically falling asleep as i type this.

i stay up entirely too late. give me a month off school, and i abuse that shit like crazy. my procrastination has reached levels of utmost intolerance. i go back to school in two weeks, and this blog is probably the most i will have accomplished since not having school. yes, i go to work, and i feel semi-accomplished doing that, but i still need to work on my portfolio, accept my loans for this year--that goddamned FAFSA is a nagging bitch, i tell you--and maybe look up possible internships.

sloth is one of the 7 deadly sins. anyone ever watch the movie "se7ven" with brad pitt and morgan freeman? the guy who represented sloth was tied to a bed and left to rot for an entire year until he woke up, freaked the fuck out, and ended up in a hospital after having chewed his own tongue off.

that sucks.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

2012-01-03T23:00:00.000-08:00

pretty please?

haul

2012-01-02T22:19:00.000-08:00

my first haul video!

me gusta music of 2011 (in no particular order)

2011-12-31T00:48:00.000-08:00

*le enjoys this music and formulates a real life scenario in which all of these songs apply to me and should be playing in le background

me and you - nero le song from le headphones commercial

the look - metronomy this sounds rly kewl

last known surroundings - explosions in the sky nice video

pharoahs - SBTRKT guy in mask trolls everyone w/ gud music

monarchy of roses - red hot chili peppers omg they like came back

go - santigold ft. karen o santi white + the "maps" girl

marvin's room - drake BAWWW

lotus flower bomb - wale totally jacked radiohead for the title

lights - ellie goulding i know who she is bcuz of awkward

that's my bitch - the throne ft. la roux and bon iver le throne

i never learnt to share - james blake pretty fucking epic

out in the streets - africa hitech this is juke music.

how come you never go there - feist "1234" girl still singing

on my level - wiz khalifa i dont think he's ever sober.

afternoon - youth lagoon all dreamy and shit

my machines - battles man vs. elevator. and le elevator wins.

will do - tv on the radio srsly cried listening to this

hell on heels - pistol annies these bitches is bad

quickie - miguel bathroom stall nookie

dance (a$$) - big sean ft. nicki minaj stripper anthem #1

we are young - fun. '50s

ny is killing me - gil-scott heron & jamie xx RIP GSH

cruel - st. vincent epic guitar solo

every night my teeth are falling out - antlers go see a dentist

tongue tied - grouplove another kewl song from a commercial

need you now - cut copy longer version is better

novacane - frank ocean fuck the pain away

fucking best night ever - wallpaper. he doesnt know spanish

hey friend - jeff the brotherhood nice hip-hop opening

fall creek boys choir - james blake & bon iver wtf is he saying?

ffunny ffrends - unknown mortal orchestra extra f's?

fragile bird - city and colour this song is totes about sex

junk of the heart (happy) - the kooks cute.

she - tyler, the creator tyler is fucking weird

countdown - beyonce she's so not pregnant

the monkeys are coming - does it offend you, yeah? funky monkeys

my body - young the giant nice bassline

nearly witches - panic! at the disco better as a foursome

crystalline - bjork she got an orange afro...

santa fe - beirut fucking catchy

hello - martin solveig ft. dragonette tennis will never catch on

aroused - tom vek SMOKE.
bring it back - travis porter stripper anthem #2

sail - AWOLNATION aliens?

born - starfucker trippy

bizness - tune-yards its a girl singing, not a dude

secretary song - the go! team girl from deerhoof sings shit

so it goes - akron/family more epic guitar

country shit (remix) - big K.R.I.T. ft. bun b and ludacris hood

up up up - givers listen to this on a ay-ro-plane

slow motion - panda bear wtf is he saying?

grown ocean - fleet foxes young river

you know what i mean - cults forever alone

hannah - freelance whales now or later sales boosted

mindkilla - gang gang dance rly weird...but kewl

judas - lady gaga fuck jesus. gimme that red satan dick.

flower - amos lee soul folk from a mixed dude

super duper rescue heads - deerhoof meeee...to da rescue

freaking out - toro y moi '80s

too dramatic - ra ra riot they be well dressed

second chance - peter, bjorn & john ya dun goofed

american trash - innerpartysystem we all stoopid

our deal - best coast forever alone

look at me now - chris brown ft. busta rhymes & lil' wayne the 1%

happy new years! see ya in 2012!

the look

2011-12-28T20:53:00.000-08:00

* blazer: H&M
* dress: H&M
* necklace: Forever 21
* watch: Bongo (chrimbus gift!)
* boots: jeffrey campbell

i took these pictures on chrimbus because the fam decided to go to church all randomly. it was so boring. i really hate church. not only because i don't believe in god, but its geriatric central. everybody there is old, all the men are old--and i know they're all freaks even though the bible denounces anyone having any sort of desire to have sex--and the women wear those weird hats that block the views of people sitting behind them. not only that, but the young people who DO go--and it's not a lot--usually look so out of place and judgemental.

in other news...

i visited the urban outfitters surplus in chicago. oh. em. GAWD. the place is already crawling with deals, but everything in the store was half the fuck off. for four hours, i scoured the store, braved the hour-long line that stretched far back to the fitting room (which was in the back of the store, btw), and came back with a gold mine. i'll focus on the shoes for now, though, as i got THREE pairs, all fully functional, cute, and more importantly, affordable.

i've been needing a mary jane shoe for a while. i've been lusting after a wooden heeled shoe after i saw the chloe sevigny for opening ceremony boots that i was lusting after but naturally too broke to afford. i also needed some heels to make my jeans look better. voila. three birds obliterated with one proverbial stone.

typical me error: i left the facking wrapping bits on the shoe. grrr.

python booties. will admit, i didn't want them at first because they looked a little tacky, but then i thought of the interesting touch they could add to all my outfits, (plus the fact that they were ten dollars) and i got them! they kind of remind me of cowboy boots, but in ankle boot form.

ahhh yes. men's classic brogues. i cannot wait to wear these babies with jeans, flirty dresses, and with tights paired with skirts. absolutely dig wingtips. the masculine trend is one of the best IMO, because the menswear is such an unexpected and chic trend when done correctly.

and here's the video that inspired my title. i haven't been feeling metronomy since their album nights out, but i might give their new one, the english riviera a listen after this song.

chrimbus/chrismukkah/whatever

2011-12-25T14:21:00.000-08:00

x-mas/christmas/chrimbus/chrismukkah/whatever post ahead

first, let's start off with what i got for chrimbus!

i spotted this book in urban outfitters i believe--or probably amazon because i was also looking up the RHCP oral/visual history book--and instantly needed it in my life. for the music addict like me, who spends her days trolling youtube trying to find more candy for my zune, this book is like a manual of ear sex.

i'm reading it now! ok, not literally now, but i've got it open, and i'm fitting to look up a billie holiday song when i'm done posting this.

a proper makeup bag. FINALLY. i've been schlepping my nail polish and cosmetics in a damn drawstring thingabobber that made absolutely no sense and was an utter fail since it's now ripped. thank you bruvah.

pokemon silver. hello childhood. unfortunately, my bro bought it used and it doesn't hold a save--FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK--but i want another one. i had my gameboy all ready and everything, for massive thumb aches from pressing the "A" button repeatedly. oh well.

my mom got this cute little hat from a lady at her church. pic doesn't really do it justice, but i like it. yes, it's super juvenile and upon this glance it looks so baby-ish, but i'm a grown ass kid. 20 years old, and i still play pokemon for crying out loud.

and my spotify as of recent?

as you can see, no christmas music to be found, and a shitload of lykke li in the wee hours of the morning. whatever.

hope you all had a great xmas/christmas/chrimbus/christmukkah!

inspiration

2011-12-23T22:59:00.000-08:00

the way the the pictures are taken. the fifties style. the straight swag. i think i just fell in love.

Krystal J styled them. i took one look at her portfolio and gained massive appreciation. thanks, tumblr!

cross

2011-12-21T20:44:00.000-08:00

cross necklaces are awesome pieces of jewelry IMO. they can make your outfit pop and adds a quirky touch to almost everything you wear. you don't have to be religious--i'm athiest, and my family always wonders why i wear crosses when i don't believe--to make use of this trend!

my brother--after begging him--let me wear his cross necklace. he ordered it off amazon, but isn't sure of the brand. however, here are some you can check out if you feel like getting in on this cool trend.

This avant-garde piece is *gasp* upside down! ASOS's kitschy piece is the best thing to accent a casual outfit. I really like this necklace. I want it. In fact, I'm favoriting this page and salivating as we speak...

A simple cross necklace from Fashionology. It's classic, refined, and perfect for those who want to admire minimalist jewelry.

This one from Forever 21 has a decidedly more Goth feel.

Here's a quirkier one from Topshop.

there. now you've all got incentive to squander your paychecks on jewelry like i do on clothes every two weeks.

oh, and because i can't not share music, here's a band who also shares a fond love of crosses. enjoy!

A$$

2011-12-19T20:36:00.000-08:00

* top: H&M

* maxi skirt: H&M

*rings: (white) H&M (stone) Forever 21

* earrings: don't remember

* necklace: Forever 21 (from my Cali trip!)

* boots: Forever 21

working for one week today, and then hightailing it the fuck back to the crib.

lemme step on a proverbial soapbox for one second: i am aware that i have a big ass. my friends point it out all the time. so does my mom. i get it. and whenever i wear something tight, they don't hesitate to point it out. and while i am proud of my round derriere, which is all natural, and which was acquired by doing absolutely NOTHING on my part--one of my friends asked if do squats, to which i quickly replied no--i feel like people automatically think you're a whore if your ass is always poking out.

i can't help that my ass is big, and i don't think i should have to wear baggy jeans just so others won't assume that i'm a skank. i'm completely aware that girls who wear tight shit are automatically seen as whores, which is why i try to balance what i wear: if i'm wearing something tight on top, i'll have on a loose bottom, and vice versa. its about playing with extremes so you don't look too sexy or too plain. i like dressing the way i do--which i don't think is slutty at all, and i think it's stupid that people judge you because of your body type. i can't help that i have a fat ass. if i was skinny, no one would even make these comments.

*steps off soapbox

wait, i just realized this:

ASSume. hehe.

make-up

2011-12-18T16:22:00.000-08:00

i usually never do anything beauty-related because it's not up my alley, but lately i've been into makeup. i don't really know how to do it well just yet, so i indulge in lip glosses. i bought four over the weekend.

the colors from left to right

blazing violet - LA colors

ruby - LA colors

true red - NYX

amethyst - NYX

blazing violet

plum

true red

amethyst

i'm officially in love with NYX and LA Colors! definitely buying more in the future. my personal favorite is blazing violet. i usually never experiment with purples, but the tone is so great and its not as garish as pinks are. :)

sikamikanico

2011-12-17T22:27:00.000-08:00

* vest: stolen from my mom

* dress: H&M

*mesh top/dress: American Apparel

* shoes: Jeffrey Campbell

just got back from a small family get together, and now i am le pooped. SO FUCKING HAPPY to be home after finals are now over. one month of chillness, though i'm working next week. whatever. that's money to be made. no fault in that.

i am absolutely IN LOVE with the red hot chili peppers. it's getting a bit out of hand. i just ordered a t-shirt, their poster, and an hour ago, bought their oral/visual history book.

I'M FUCKING TROLLING THEM.

as if that wasn't enough, i'm damn near in love with the bassist, michael peter balzary, AKA flea. i'm such a fangirl.

*swoons*

anyways, obsessing over. here's my inspired song from the title. i had no idea that wayne's world used this song in their movie, when wayne and cassandra are listening to music in his car. makes me love that movie 3x more.

little boots

2011-12-10T20:17:00.001-08:00

procured the jeffrey campbell tardy boots. and lemme tell you.

them bitches are fucking painful.

but i got at em at a deal--$104, from its original $200, so i can't complain too much. i don't really do heels, so the stripper height of 5 inches is pushing it, but i'm hoping to get used to it.

not much has been up. still running around doing my journalist thing. i need connections out the ass, real talk.

i would've posted an outfit, but i have no one to take pictures of me. i wanted to my friend to, but he's hella unreliable. and it sucks because he has a nice camera.

Y U NO TAKE PICS OF ME???

i've been trolling tumblr, and i mentioned having one in a previous post. here it is.

http://thatswhatyomommasaid.tumblr.com/

can't wait for finals to be fucking over with. i just wanna lay around the house and play the sims all day without feeling like a friendless loser.

oh! and i LOVED the comments i got--even if there were only 3--about my "guy" situation. haha funny stuff. we're actually still friends because i came clean, and it was a good convo. but i'm definitely looking forward to being over him completely. i don't wanna rush anything, i'll give it time, but i will say, the sooner the better, because he's really not all that.

btw, i'd advise you all, if you don't listen to the awesomeness that is the red hot chili peppers, to fucking GET ON IT. they have been ruling my life lately, and without any shame whatsoever. :)

my body

2011-08-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

* Sweatshirt - American Apparel

* Leggings - American Apparel

* Necklace - Forever 21

* Boots - Bongo for KMart

California was pretty cool. Won't lie, it could've been better, but hey, I got out of Illinois for the first time.

The plane ride was soooo cool. It felt like a mini rollercoaster, and I managed to get great pics outside the window. ;) Pics to follow.

Summer is basically oh-VAH. I start school at Columbia pretty soon and I move in Saturday! Eeeek!!

What are you guys up to?

east harlem

2011-08-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

* bustier: thrift

* leo scarf: idk

* sunglasses: forever 21

* skirt: H&M

* boots: forever 21

i wore a denim vest over my bustier to be modest. if i wasn't around my fam, i woulda chucked that shit off the moment i could.

got a phone upgrade to this bootleg blackberry. it'll do. must say it is better than my old phone, a samsung impression. you send 10 texts, and then your phone acts like it has no reception and you have to power off and on to keep sending texts. #lame. and it sucks around crowds. #evenlamer.

the countdown is STILL on. 3 more days. no i am not counting this one. expect more fashiony fashion-ness in los angeles.

she

2011-08-06T00:43:00.000-07:00

gonna do a quick post before going to sleep. i intended to post this days ago, but i'm lazy. *kanye shrugs* sue me.

so much has been going on. ok, that's a lie. i've been wasting my life on tumblr, watching old lizzie mcguire episodes on youtube, and anxiously waiting until i go to california with my bestie.

YES THAT'S RIGHT BITCHES I'M GOIN TO CALIFORNIA

AND I'M HELLA EXCITED

LIKE REAL EXCITED

i've never been on a plane before and this will be awesome. one whole week of acting dumb in los angeles with my friend! one week away from the parents and from the boringness of illinois before i start school at columbia college.

oh yeah, i forgot to mention i transferred. my old school wasn't doing it for me. 2 more years there sounded like a death sentence.

so now i'm there, studying journalism and if i'm lucky fashion journalism. hellz yeah.

for extra measure, i'll throw in this stupid picture.

* jacket: thrift

* shorts: H&M

* t-shirt: random because it's a t-shirt

*shoes: bare feet shoes...and they fucking hurt

* sunglasses: H&M

*earrings: random beauty supply store

and the inspiration behind the title...

my summer playlist

2011-07-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

it's summer. that means it's time to sit around the house and force-feed yourself ice cream, splayed out in front of the television watching 90s nickelodeon. (ABOUT DAMN TIME) it's time to dump your girlfriend/boyfriend to go sew your royal oats. it's time to go on vacation, get drunk and not remember a thing the next day on several occasions, and most importantly, create memories that you'll still be smiling about in december.

but don't forget the soundtrack!

portofino - teengirl fantasy

an ambient beat with a rich boy sample thrown in? why not?

finn bikkjen! - casiokids

norwegian band casiokids trills in their native tongue over an upbeat synth-poppy symphony.

what you know - two door cinema club

two door cinema club rounded up every american apparel employee! fun little ditty from the breakout indie band. perfect for blasting on a hot day.

on my level - wiz khalifa

amber rose's boytoy creates probably the catchiest bass and synth line. get high to this. no seriously, get high to this.

ice cream - battles

the unexpected summer jam from the band whose songs can last up to nine minutes. ok, so you may not know what they're saying, but so what?

one nation under a groove - funkadelic

go all the way back to the seventies with this one. funk never goes out of style or season.

;)

talking about penises on youtube

2011-07-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

before and after

2011-07-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

the idea starts out on my bed after leaping from my brain...

...and morphs into the real thing.

* maxi dress - H&M

* bag - my mom's/vintage

* earrings - Forever 21

* boots - Forever 21

* belt - my mom's

;)

no money? no problem!

2011-07-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

i absolutely love thrifting. there's just this thrill of going into a store full of rejected clothing and making each piece your personal treasure. not only is it rewarding because you're walking away with something cheap as hell (ka-ching!), but because you have to dig through the crap to find something that you find worth wearing, it's like a personal triumph. you gave the finger to stores that sold what you found for $5 for twice or even triple that.

here's some of the scores i've gotten over the past few trips.

$5 black bustier to wear with anything high-waisted, and underneath blazers and sheer button-ups

$5 dress. because of the length--or lack thereof--it is perfect to wear with thick tights in the fall, and boots or open-toed sandals.

yup. it's from forever.

$5--you see a pattern emerging here?--little leo bag to add a dash of whimsy to any plain outfit. perfect with the aforementioned dress as a cross-body bag.

$1 skull printed scarf to wear when it gets colder over a preppy, structured peacoat, or a body con dress with a leather jacket. even better with a beret to offset its edginess.

- when thrifting, its important to have patience. you won't find what you're looking for right away. take your time.

- try to walk in to find specifically what you want. want a floral-printed dress? try to seek it out. a structured blazer? again, look hard for exactly what you want.

- examine your finds. this isn't H&M, it's a thrift store. nothing is perfect. and nobody wants to go home and see that the sweater they picked not only has weird stains, but has no freaking buttons.

- pay attention to special sales. it's cheap enough, but if you can get it for half off, why not? unique thrift store, for example, color codes their merchandise. so if you picked something that's, let say, green, and green items are 25% off, you stand to save a bit.

- if you don't find anything, don't write the store off altogether. keep checking back! you won't hit a jackpot each time because on some days, you'll feel like they've intentionally only stocked crap. but keep checking back. you could get nothing one day, and a sexy LBD the next.

- be resourceful. some stores don't have dressing rooms. have a great eye for what you're sure fits you. try on blazers. do everything to them that you want--roll up the cuffs, button them, for example--to make sure the fit is perfect to avoid going home and realizing that you'll never wear it.

:)

ummm...

2011-07-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

i've been gone a really long time.

i basically stopped because school started and i felt like my pictures sucked ass. but i'm gonna see if i can give this another shot...

i'm on tumblr, chictopia, and lookbook now. lots of interesting stuff has happened. new music, new clothes, etc.

so be prepared for a comeback...or not. idk. lol i hate sounding indecisive.

up all night

2010-09-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

These pics are old. I just wanted to share these with you guys out of randomness. I'm very proud of the handiwork I did on the Lego heart pin. Love you, Dee and Ricky, but $50 + shipping and handling is a bit too much for some red bricks glued to a pin.

From a recent downtown trip, my friend took these pics. Transformers was still filming down there. Is it just me or am I the only person who doesn't care? I mean, most of it is CGI, and the crew is really mean to people who just want to watch a helicopter fly back and forth. So pointless. Besides, if anything, I'd just want to see Shia LaBeouf's adorable ass.

Back in school and I've having fun already. Maybe this semester will be better than the last...

Oh! And I saw Vampire Weekend last night, with openers Dum Dum Girls and Beach House. Was. Freaking. Awesome. Pics to follow. I feel like I'm still sweaty from dancing all night!

ring ring

2010-08-26T01:36:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the emo-like facial expressions. I've been told a lot that I always look unhappy, which is weird, because I'm the most happy-go-lucky person ever. No, seriously. I'm a total goofball.

New hair for school. I feared that I'd look like Nicki Minaj. Not that I hate her or anything, I just don't like looking like I copy people.

After so many long years of pining over music and collecting CDs--I believe my very first one was Janet Jackson's All For You--I am down to only four, two of which I just bought. This is a shame! I miss my CDs! I miss proudly being able to show off my eclectic taste. Therefore, I must hit up CDNOW and buy cheap CDs so I can stack them on my shelf and present them like, "Yes. These are my favorite artists."

I just bought Hot Chip and Me'Shell Ndegeocello. Does anyone else agree that CDs are about to become vintage collector items, going the way of vinyl?

slang tang

2010-08-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

I think I'm quite obsessed with my new American Apparel petticoat/tutu.

Visited a friend for her birthday back in the town where I go to school. Is it just me or does going back to school feel like such a draaaaaaaaaaaaaag? I haven't even bought my books yet. Fail.

Lollaplooza. Was. Amazing. I'm so glad I went. I finally got my Hot Chip nut busted, and it felt amazing. Also saw Wavves, Los Amigos Invisibles (per my friend's request), Raphael Saadiq, Devo, and Lady-freaking-Gaga.

This is the Dee and Ricky DIY imitation that I finally got done! After I ordered the correct LEGO pieces, I put it all together. My friend hipped me to the idea of building one instead of buying the $50 version. Va$htie Kola also made a black cross version that I'm sure I could do. Will get on that soon. I just need to figure out how to get a pin on the back without it looking tacky.

Did anyone else go to Lolla???

shit i want

2010-08-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

(Clockwise from right: Jeffrey Campbell, Forever 21 hearts cardigan, Nixon watch, American Apparel beret + glasses, H&M dress, American Apparel disco pants, Steve Madden brogues, Dee & Ricky heart brooch, Coach backpack)

meiple

2010-07-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

Today, I wanted to look cute. So I came up with the idea of turning a really sexy dress into a casual, fun, and even sporty ensemble. My Forever 21 dress was covered up (and with good reason, since there's a mesh opening right above the breasts!) with my red tee, old denim vest from my mom, and my recently purchased grey Chucks. The heart pin was a thrift find. I'm actually working on building my own Lego heart brooch, a la Dee and Ricky. My friend saved me from buying the $50 piece when she said I could build my own.

And that's the ideal way I'd wear it. Over a plaid shirt, denim jacket, leather jacket, or in a hat!

Oh, and it's pronounced ME-I-PLAY. I love me some Robin Thicke. I've been under his spell lately. He's gorgeous, but he has different levels of gorgeousness. This is the evolution of Robin Thicke.

SEXY (A Beautiful World era)

SEXIER (Same. . . but he probably didn't want to cut his hair all the way. The result is his emo shag)

SEXIEST (From The Evolution of Robin Thicke to present)

He's sexy in all stages, actually. My current crush. Mr. Sexy.

What celebrity are you guys feeling a lot?

dota

2010-07-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

Shots I took after work on Thursday. Let me tell you, short shorts are the quickest way to get a guy's attention. Even if most of those guys are unattractive, smell bad because they work outside, and have at least one kid and/or a crazy baby momma. Geez, why couldn't sexy guys work at my job? The only people who hit on me are either fat, ugly, thuggish, and completely out of my league. Just once, I'd like for a really cute, really classy guy named Nick or Ryan to approach me.

Anyways, the 'I'm pissed the hell awwf-ness' aside, I got the boots from Forever 21. Saw them through the window, and my jaw dropped. They're the perfect folky boots I've been searching for. Top is from Urban Outfitters, which I scored for just $5. Go sales!

Oh, and the title is from this Basshunter song called 'DotA.' It's Euro-trash dance music, but I must admit, this song is catchy. And dare I say it, that Swedish meatball Basshunter is pretty hot...

a thing for me

2010-07-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

Boredom spurred me to go downtown. Me and my friend hit the beach, Navy Pier's ferris wheel, and we visited the opening of Burton, the skateboarding/snowboarding megastore that just opened right next to American Apparel.

Before we headed there to see the bevy of hot, cigarette-toting skateboarders hanging around the store, we went to the Water Tower. Per my friend's request, we checked out Billabong, and they totally wowed me with their collection of Nixon watches. I've been coveting one since I first laid eyes on them on Karmaloop's website.

By the way, message to the Truebies, who else thought this week's episode was total redemption from the last three somewhat lackluster ones? I was duly appreciative that the show had finally picked up, but a bit disappointed that we didn't get to see any of this. . . for real:

NO SOOKIE/ERIC FROTTAGE YET.

style icon: alexa chung

2010-07-07T21:04:00.000-07:00

Today, I saw a cute outfit of Alexa Chung in Seventeen magazine. It was a red dress with black flats, and it seemed so effortlessly chic and comfortable at the same time.

For months, I thought her style was overrated because she barely wears colors and her looks seemed so boring, but after boredom compelled me to look up her style, I realized that Ms. Chung has a knack for polished outfits and limited quirk, just enough to keep her outfits from being too boring. She can throw on a pair of weird sunglasses and a leather jacket to make her girly polka-dotted mini dress anything from ordinary, and I love that.

Oh, and props to her for snagging Alex Turner, the cutie lead singer of Arctic Monkeys.

Who inspires you guys to get dressed?

fireworks

2010-07-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

You know what feels fucking awesome? Besides, wearing the shoes that took you damn near a month to procure, there is no better feeling in the world than hearing a song that matches the moment you're currently in. Today, I went to see the fireworks in my neighborhood, and right before they started, a brilliant idea popped into my head: play Animal Collective's "Fireworks." As if the band wasn't mind-blowingly amazing as they already are, when I slipped my earbuds into my ears and played the song, it made me feel like I was living the moment even more. Each bright color that exploded into the night sky made me smile because it was like my personal little corny movie moment. ;)

Hope you all had a great fourth!!!

tenderoni

2010-07-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

I got a job finally. Normally, I feel like dressing even remotely cute constitutes the Wocka Flocka clones at my workplace ogling you and asking you for numbers they don't even deserve. (Some of them have kids.) Then I realized that they'll ogle you regardless. Seriously. Guys will hit on you even if you have dog shit smeared on your face. Not really sure that anyone would ever have dog shit smeared on their faces, but still.

****************************BREAKING FOOTWEAR NEWS***************************

They have come.

I ordered them weeks ago, and I feared the worst.

Maybe they just forgot about little old me. . .

Maybe they're withholding my order because they know I'm black and they're racist.

Or they ran out and didn't tell me?

But a lady told me that they were finally going to be shipped because they had run out and then re-shipped. Awesome business, right?

WRONG.

I get them bitches, and they don't even fit.

They were too roomy.

I thought, damn it. Just my fucking luck.

So I sent them back.

And I was very hurt.

Because I loved those shoes. I thought they loved me back.

But then......GASP!

They sent me another pair. . .

and by George, they fit!!!

I love them!!

Other things on my list?

Now let's just hope I can get some of that out of the way! Oh, and I forgot to put sequined leggings on the list. Argh. Whatever, I just know I need them. Badly. Like a Tripp NYC sweater or jeans. Or like a Fall Out Boy and a Panic! At the Disco t-shirt and poster. I'm rambling now.

By the way, did anybody hear Kele Okereke's new song? He's the lead singer of Bloc Party, and he just went solo. I love "Tenderoni!"

best way to get rid of ACNE? pro-activ.

2010-06-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

There have been a ton of fads lately that seriously make my eyebrow twitch out of disgust. There was the period back in my shantytown of a high school where girls decided that ill-fitting plaid shorts were a trend. Then came the fake designer (points if its Louis Vuitton) toolbelt-cum-fannypacks. There was even a gleaming moment where pajama pants, the epitome of "I don't give a fuck" style was lauded by the school populace. Who needs fashion when you've got Spongebob plastered all over your legs?

But now that I've gotten into fashion blogging, I notice that there's always that coveted piece that pops up on every single blog. From the Balenciaga suede oxfords to the Forever 21 cross ring that vanished from existence as soon as it was made the 'it' thing to have. (Seriously, they're being sold on eBay for at least ten times what they're worth.)

This is what's really irking me at the moment. These butt ugly shoes with a surprisingly fitting name, meaning that they must be extinguished from existence.

WHAT. THE. HELL. IS. SO. SPECIAL. ABOUT. THESE. SHOES.

Ok, they have a mirror-ish sole. Ok, they're black. Ok, they're wedges. But they look so damn big and bulky, like they weigh a good ten pounds. There is absolutely nothing special about these stupid, overpriced designer shoes. And as if that wasn't bad enough. . .

A brown lining at the bottom. Seriously, I rest my case. NEXT!

the downfall of us all

2010-06-11T20:31:00.000-07:00

Took a trip to the North Avenue beach yesterday in Chicago with the girls.

He jumped into the photo before he went to the bathroom. We have no idea who this guy is, but he kept looking at us, so I guess he wanted us to remember him. Not bad looking, either.

The water was SO cold, but refreshing. I really love this picture my friend took. Her mohawk is sick.

I was going for glam-casual. I knew the graphic print tee would be a good cover-up, so I added shorts, summer sandals, and the jacket to dress it up a bit. (I had no idea I was posing by a garbage can, by the way.)

NOM, NOM, MOTHERFUCKING NOM.

The beach was a good time. Besides the rude bike riders and run-ins with pigeons, sand, and the occasional football/frisbee/volleyball, we all had fun.

Lollapalooza finally released the day-by-day line-up. Must say, it's...meh.

As you can see, the only people who matter are boxed. Looks like I'm going on the Friday date, even if my best friend wants to see MGMT on the Sunday date.

What do you guys think of this year's lineup?

my love

2010-05-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's been two weeks since I've posted.

I know.

My apologies. Blame it on me moving from school and settling back into the motions that I call home, or blame it on my inherent laziness and incompetence to follow through with absolutely anything that I begin on a whim. I've been out of the loop because being at home, there's really no reason to go out anymore unless I'm headed for an excursion out with friends, which means that my fashion sense, while not completely stomped out by boredom, has been stifled a bit. I promise to attempt to revive it and post more photos on my blog. My good camera broke--I'm such a klutz, I swear--and now I have to revert back to the GE model that got me by back in college. While it stands for General Electronics, it should stand for Goddamned Equipment. Seriously, how the hell does a camera not act right with fully charged batteries?

Nothing else is new with me (I need some more excitement in my life for real. . .) other than a planned trek to Six Flags in the beginning of June. Still deliberating on Warped our Lollapalooza, though I'll probably just end up going to both.

sadistic schoolgirl

2010-05-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Watching The Craft on E! Must say, I love the schoolgirl inspired fashions, even though this movie is rather scary and disturbing. But then again, scary and disturbing are kind of my thing. I was very glad to see Nancy (Fairuza Balk) destroy that idiot boyfriend of Sarah's. (Robin Tunney) Now I'm thinking of buying thigh-highs, cross-earrings, and long black maxi dresses.

What movies inspire you guys' fashion sense?

all that i've got

2010-05-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

I love the thrift store! It's where I got this amazing pailetted shrug. Originally from New York & Company, I spotted it at the Unique Thrift Store for only $6. Win.

Finals are coming up soon. 2 weeks until my first year of college is ov-ah. And good, because I'm really getting annoyed by some of the people around here. . .maybe next semester will be even better.

Heading to the mall today with a friend. Then maybe I'll get on these final papers. Maybe.

psychic city

2010-05-03T19:31:00.000-07:00

It was about seventy degrees today. Hello, bandage skirt and owl tee!

Wore later on with a denim jacket and my favorite quilted minibag that I found at the thrift store. Wish I took pictures, but it was on the way to Jewel. No time for documentation. Also realized that apparently, I bring out the worst in people, as my friend who went with me noticed. Hmm.

Two more weeks until school is over. I should happy, but instead, I'm drowning in disappointment. It'll be nice to go home, but I hate my neighborhood, and I'll hate it even more if I don't end up working at a clothing store downtown. *cough* URBAN OUTFITTERS *cough*

Oh, and I think my obsession with music has reached an all-time high.

And that's just some of it. There's other CDs behind them! And I have at least ten more on hold!!! Ke$sha (the only time I will ever mention that dirty skeezer on this blog) says love is her drug. Music is mine.

Also. . .

I'm sure most of you are wondering why I keep putting this pink-haired chick in almost all of my posts these days. This is Audrey Kitching, a scene/alternative model. Expect a future post about the scene/emo/alternative styles and some of the girls who I idolize. There's something about a girl with pink or blue hair, who rocks it in public with pride that I just cherish. Much love to the scene queens.

Just threw him in because he is gaw-jess. You're looking at Andy Sixx from Black Veil Brides.

bits of inspiration

2010-04-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

basic space

2010-04-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

Today was blistering cold as the day went on. Detrimental to girls who don't wear pants and find out that jeans would have been a better option. But whatever. I sometimes put practicality right behind style in the name of looking cute.

My birthday is coming up soon, and all I really want is some awesome stuff from American Apparel, since their clothes are kind of expensive. I've also been pining for a sexy black bodysuit, and they have the perfect one. They also carry this amazing paint splatter dress, and the petticoat skirt that's been eluding me for ages.

What's the one piece of fashion that you guys are searching for? Perfect pair of jeans, a nice jacket?

in bloom

2010-04-18T16:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, everyone. Been busy. Got my hair re-done this weekend, copped a massive attitude, and yeah. I get emo every once in a while. Who doesn't?

So what's up been up lately? Hmm. . . nothing really of note, besides the quotidian life shit that we all go through. Nothing I'm too excited for, except summer, traveling ANYWHERE, and getting a job. Okay, maybe not the last part, but I have applied to H&M, Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, FYE, and Urban Outfitters. Getting a job at UO would make my life. And my wallet. Ka-ching.

However, there is something that's been pissing me off lately. While I'm at school, studying my ass off, stressing over every single test and assignment that I'm being given, I see idiots like Soulja Boy and this one groupie bitch--whose name I will NOT say here because then that's giving her more attention--making all the damn money. Doesn't it seem like these days, getting an education doesn't mean shit anymore? I mean, why the hell am I in school if I could fuck a rapper and then write a book about it and make my millions like that? Aforementioned groupie bitch didn't even fuck anyone of worthy caliber like Superhead, and she supposedly got a book deal and not one but TWO MTV reality shows. And homegirl doesn't even look like she can spell the word 'book.' All I want to do is make money doing what I love, but apparently, unless you're some attention-starved slut or a dumbass with an awesome dance that all the little kids want to do at basement juke parties, you're not getting anywhere.

Does anyone feel the same way? Do you feel tempted to quit and just slide down a pole/sell drugs?

fragments of the weekend

2010-04-12T20:12:00.000-07:00

Playing around in my Forever 21 dress.

Black Frye-ish boots that I coveted at Champaign's Urban Outfitters.

Me and my friends taking in a step show. (Can you say hot guys doing hot dances?)

New tights from a local store that I tested over the weekend.

A friend's cute shoes that murdered her feet no less than five minutes into the trek to the bar.

Self explanatory.

Somebody stole my glasses and my bonnet. And she thought she was me, apparently.

Soaking up the sun. Though I already have a tan.

My friend's cute shoes.

The outfit I wore to the bar. Earned me a long dance with a cute guy. :D Just mad that my saddle shoes were dirty beyond belief.

Hope you guys' weekend was just as good!

Lolla back!

2010-04-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

My idea of the trends going on: tough military plus sweet and delicate florals and minimalist thong sandals.

I was very excited to read the entire Lollapalooza line-up! After that lame hangman-style guessing that pissed me off more than made me excited, we finally find out. Here are some of my favorites that I'm thinking of peeping.

Concerts, concerts, concerts! As if it wasn't enough that I wanted to go to Warped AND Lolla like last year, now I find out that Crystal Castles is playing a show three days after Lolla. Ugh. I need another job! My whole income this summer will be spent on nothing but seeing shows. Not bad, I guess...but income must be improved.

What concerts do you guys hope to see?

pardon me

2010-04-04T21:44:00.000-07:00

'

'

I went out to run some errands with my fam the other day. I haven't had a chance to wear my thrifted yellow blazer, so with the beautiful weather, I said fuck it. Okay, not literally, but you know.

Working on a paper right now. Does anyone want to guess how pointless moral philosophy is? Honestly, we all know the difference between right and wrong, but I guess they want to let us know that old dead guys from the past knew, too. *Kanye shrug*

Anyways, off to finish it!

sneaker pimps

2010-04-03T01:17:00.000-07:00

Keds

Converse

Supras

Pastry

Vans

And the end-all be all. . .Jeremy Scott. *dies*

I love sneakers. Sneakers are the most wonderful creation known to man. Such sporty goodness jampacked into a stylish little creation. I barely ever wear heels, but when I'm not cavorting around in boots, I definitely reach into my closet and lace up my Punkrose/Converse confections and give the finger to prissiness. Now one thing that needs to die. . .

Sneakers and heels are two separate entities. Either you wear sneakers and be comfortable, or teeter in heels to look sexy. You can't have both. Sneaker heels belong in the pit of death from 300, along with Uggs.

seven nation army

2010-03-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

Sedate, boring day. The most exciting thing that happened was me listening to my friend ramble on about how he has to take a drug test on Friday, but because he stays in the green zone, might be screwed. Bye bye, internship! That sounds really mean. I don't wanna be mean.

************BREAKING FOOTWEAR NEWS***********

The most perfect-beyond-perfect brown lace-up boots exist at Topshop. The price for indulging in a shoegasm? $145. Pfffffft. That's why sales were invented. The only other shoes I've ever purchased online were my Docs, but these boots are making me wanna pull out my credit card.

************BREAKING SWIRL NEWS***********

Justin Bieber was seen looking pretty shacked up with this chica. Also to note in this picture. . . his awesome Supra sneakers.

****************OH WAIT. NEVERMIND.**************

Alright, that's his publicist, but come awwwn, she looks like she's his age! Oh, well. He looks like he likes 'em. Justin was pretty gung-ho about getting to meet Rihanna on 106th & Park, and he's said a few times that he thinks Beyonce is hot. Hmm. . .

Spring break is soon. What are you guys doing? Shots? Nothing? Both?

tourist

2010-03-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is hump day. Therefore, Friday is soon, because Thursday comes right after hump day. Which would then mean that spring break looms over the horizon. I can just taste it. . . and it tastes pretty sweet. Like a strawberry smoothie from Pepe's, the little Mexican joint by my house. Or the delicious fro-yo from Coco Mero that I sampled when I visited my friend from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. Yum.

So here are the things I plan to do over break:

- Plan a much-needed trip to the Orland Mall (basically the 'good' mall because the one by my house is notorious for its lack of ANYTHING and constant threat of becoming the site of a shootout) with a friend. Things to get include clothes, odds and ends, and the occasional sex toy. *giggles*

- Plow into homework that was completely put off because a week of home chilling calls for procrastination.

- Read the new NYLON with Zoe Saldana on the cover, provided that it comes this week. Come on, postal service, don't be a bitch.

- Think of concerts to go to! I'm torn between Warped and Lollapalooza just like last year. Only problem is that the only people I want to see at Warped are NeverShoutNever! and Bring Me The Horizon. Lollapalooza seems promising, but honestly, until the list comes out, I'm only stoked for Lady Gaga, Kings of Leon, and Hot Chip. Whatever. Maybe the concert fairy will give me a break for missing Fall Out Boy (six. fucking. times.), Vampire Weekend, and Hot Chip, and just bless me with. . .

wuthering heights

2010-03-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

A week without fashion is like a week watching re-runs of your favorite show when the new season is available online...and you have a laptop. Okay, lame comparison, but I'm pretty sure you get the idea.

I'd been meaning to wear the tough biker accessories like a vest and sweatshirt with something girly for a while. So I decided to pull out my H&M ruffled mini-dress (which is one of the fashion staples of spring), toss some tights underneath, throw on a pair of Docs and just rip it. Love the earrings, too. They're from some random store by my house.

By the way, the reason why I generally never say where I get my clothes from is because

a) They're from cheap stores that would warrant an eyebrow raise if I ever even mentioned it. I'm talking about stores like PayHalf, Bare Feet Shoes, and stores of that nature that are usually only identifiable to the people who live in that neighborhood.

b) I can't afford to buy clothes from nice places like Express, American Apparel, etc. Sue me.

c) It's really not the designer, but it's how you wear it. Why do you need know where I got my dress from? The point is that I styled it in a way that looks good, and that's all that matters. Most of my clothes are cheap, but I make them work. Who said you needed a closet full of Prada, Gucci, and Alexander Wang? (though I will admit, Wang is beasting it out, and I wouldn't mind one of those hot little distressed bags, or his drapey tanks)

Also! Great big news!

It's about damn time. NYLON has never had a black woman on the cover (here come the arguments that she's Dominican and not black) and Zoe Saldana is perfect. She's been everywhere lately, and this is one issue I will take pride in flipping through. Can't wait until April!

mercy me

2010-03-20T00:49:00.000-07:00

image from Topshop

I don't know why, but this picture is inspiring me on this late night/early morning. Sorry for the lack of posts. I just wrote a fashion article for my school's newspaper. Maybe I'll kick back into the swing of things soon.

That is, if mother nature doesn't decide to flip me the bird when I finally get ready to wear skirts again. Ugh, FML. It's supposed to snow this weekend. Such good days of warm, beautiful weather, only to get snowed on again? In the words of Eric Cartman, "GODAMMIT!"

designer spotlight: hussein chalayan

2010-03-08T16:57:00.000-08:00

Images from style.com

My boredom induced me to check out style.com (a site I don't even frequent that much because I'm too busy perusing fashion blogs) and peep what was happening. I stumbled upon Hussein Chalayan because I remember that Lady Gaga wore this awesome bubble dress by the famed up-and-comer.

What I really dig about Chalayan is his command of all the trends that are going on right now.

Ruffles
Hoodies (part of the outerwear trend)
Sleek tailoring
Oversized menswear
Minimalistic femininity

All of these trends are done up to a tee, and it looks absolutely breathtaking. Not only that, but it can be done in real life. Anybody can layer a hoodie underneath an oversized blazer and get away with it. No extra-special Hollywood frills here!

In other news. . .

Me and my friend Autume peeped the Attack Attack! show on Friday. Let's just say, for one, that I learned a very valuable lesson after being sandwiched between hot people for about two hours.

Faux leather (or probably any leather for that matter) is a bad. wardrobe. choice.

But other than that. . .

Me and this vanilla scoop named Devin Oliver (lead singer of I See Stars, one of the openers) managed to take a pic together. It was. . . bliss. I still can't believe he's only 17. Jailbait!

To get a taste of what Attack Attack! sounds like, check below.

************************WARNING: LOUD SCREAMS AHEAD***************************

mcfearless

2010-03-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

The weather was kind to me yesterday. Though there was snow on the ground, I decided to say 'fuck it' and throw on lace tights and a dress just because I haven't worn them since at least October.

Not only that, but I swear, I feel like I'm living in my Forever 21 leather jacket. I feel so confident in that jacket, it's like my personal bullshit shield. Not to mention, I might have caught the attention of a certain guy I've been crushing on who is afraid/unwilling to speak to me these days. Though he did not say 'hi,' he did cough rather obviously into his friend he was walking with. Hmm...

By the way, I felt like this was going to come up eventually, but I am a huge fan of interracial dating. Two of my friends are involved in the swirl (hehe) and it just makes me so happy to see interracial couples, but it's hard as hell to get in on the action as a black woman. So whenever I see a cute BW/WM couple, I rejoice inside.

They don't go together, but they'd be so cute if they did!

xoxo, gossip girl

2010-03-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

Monday's outfit consisted of a "Gossip Girl" inspiration. Takes me back to a time when that show wasn't so damn lame. Why do the writers always have to ruin such good things?

I was also inspired by a little blog named Fashion Diaries. This girl is amazing. She's only in high school, but her style is so cool! I think she most definitely has the potential to be one of those 'it' bloggers. This is the outfit I thought of when I put mine together.

Does anybody else think "Gossip Girl" is getting lamer by the episode? Do you long for the season one and two days when the plots were actually watchable and the show was interesting? *deep sigh*

daily routine

2010-02-24T18:22:00.000-08:00

Don't blame me, blame Animal Collective!

My last post was on Forever 21. I think I'm obsessed with that store these days. Mostly all of my outfits consist of at least one trendy, affordable morsel from the aforementioned 21. Including this Rihanna-esque jacket with the exaggerated shoulders.

Other things that have been rocking my boat lately include, but are not limited to:

Anything by Bloc Party. Kele Okereke's voice among the electro-rock business of their latest album, Intimacy is something that must be heard by mass audiences.

Donnie Darko. Seriously, I must have seen this movie at least eight times. Doesn't hurt that Jake Gyllenhaal is the cutest little mentally-disturbed teenager ever!

Also, since spring is coming up--though one would never be able to figure it out since it's still snowing here in Chicago--I've got my eye on some very stylish shorts.

Clockwise from top left

The boyfriend short: Perfect to wear with an oversized tee or a white-button up. Pair with ballerina flats or even sneakers. For a dressier look, try a blazer with a white t-shirt and heels.

Cut-off shorts: When worn properly, they can look quite flattering, and sexy, not slutty. Pair these with a cardigan or a feminine blouse and flats or sandals.

Leather shorts: For the daring girls. Again, wear with caution, and make sure that they surpass the booty cheek, or you'll end up like this.

Graphic printed shorts: These will be your best friend in the summer. Since they already have a print on them, let them be the centerpiece of the outfit and keep everything else simple. Black thong sandals and a white t-shirt (or button-up) are a classic way to wear these stylish shorts.

Let's hope spring comes a little early this year so I can run out and acquire at least one of these pairs. ;)

forever. forever ever? forEVER ever?

2010-02-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

Only you, Forever 21. Only you.

apres moi

2010-02-19T07:46:00.000-08:00

I really like the idea of checkerboard with anything. It's such a surfer-guy staple, but can be easily dressed up. My whole thing with patterns might go overboard soon, but who cares? It's a nice thing.

Between trying to find things to do to pass the hours and tackling homework, I've been listening to a lot of Bloc Party, Noisettes, and Regina Spektor. Regina Spektor is simply ah-mazing. That woman never ceases to amaze me. And she's so pretty!

Oh, how I live for the open-ended weekends. Never know what's going to happen. Will I get my laptop back? (It crashed because I am a moron) Will I go to a party? How about getting the rest of my work done. Pffft. We'll see. . .

the count of monte christo

2010-02-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

Sleepiness is not a rarity amongst college students. Neither is procrastination. Next time, I should pass on the "South Park."

Now you see, now you see, there's no more honey from this bee.

down

2010-02-13T08:44:00.000-08:00

Let me just clarify one thing.

I HATE Valentine's Day.

Now before you roll your eyes and click the 'x' button because you don't care, just listen up. I hate V-Day because it's stupid. Unless you're in a relationship. But even then, it can be stupid. It's a way for the media to capitalize on couples, either breaking them up or making them even less tolerable to the general public (extreme PDA) than they already were. Then it makes single people feel like shit and confines them to the couch for the weekend, eating ice cream and berating his/herself for being lonely.

Can't people just be in love? Why do we need a holiday to celebrate it? Love is love. But I don't know. Like Corinne Bailey Rae sings, you won't know until it happens to you. It's never happened to me. Guess that's my inexperience talking. Sometimes I feel like it never will, but again, I have to realize I'm only 18.

So if you love Valentine's Day, have fun. But try not to turn it into a big deal. If you're single, don't let the holiday turn you into a griping bitch/bastard because you have no one to celebrate it with. There's absolutely nothing wrong with being single, and no one should make you feel horrible because you are. Love is a process. It takes time. Until then, keep busy. Or if you're like me, just put a shitload of music on your mp3 player and forget everything. :)

Keeping with the spirit of anti V-Day, let's just listen to some Blink.

my name is mud

2010-02-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

Is it possible to be so tired after walking around all day? Duh. When in college, it is important to remember that walking is essential, and your poor feet will die before the day is over. After making all those runs to and from classes, work, and whatever else happens to fall into the category of urgent--*ahem, making trips to the library to score countless piles of CD's from various artists*--fatigue is expected.

You have been warned.

Oh by the way, I decided to start adding music videos to my posts so you guys can gauge my eclectic tastes. Enjoy the funk-metal goodness after the fashion.

Les Claypool is amazing, by the way. Just saying. . .

when i grow up

2010-02-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

I'll get to the fashion, but first off. . .

R.I.P. FALL OUT BOY. FOREVER WILL YOUR MUSIC BE CHERISHED IN MY HEART. . . AND FOREVER I WILL BE PISSED THAT I NEVER GOT TO SEE YOU GUYS PLAY LIVE. ALWAYS WILL I PLAY FROM UNDER THE CORK TREE FROM START TO FINISH AND REMEMBER HOW I GREW UP ON YOUR MUSIC AND BECAUSE OF YOU GUYS, EXPANDED MY MUSICAL TASTES.

*dries eyes* Okay, now back to our regularly scheduled programming.

Snow has fallen in mass quantities. It continues to fall. Hopefully it does me a favor and repeals all of my classes tomorrow. All will be good in the world, and my sleep cycle shall be extended. A much needed thing, I may add. Although the day was not complete because I didn't see a certain person, it's all good. Just as long as you show your face eventually. Just saying.

dancing in the dark

2010-02-08T14:04:00.000-08:00

The title is not a nod to the way I get dressed, although one may assume that and think I'm tacky. *rolls eyes and laughs behind palm* No, it is a reference to the beautiful Solange Knowles, sister of the overexposed (insert name here because you already know). Her style is fierce, her music is on unparalleled levels of awesome, ("Cosmic Journey" anyone?) and she serves as one of the many sources of my inspiration. So it should come as no surprise that I had her in mind when I put this outfit together.

The pink boots were a Christmas gift from my mom after she saw me drooling over the ones she'd bought for herself. The jacket I stole from my mom (I steal everything from her) and threw it on over an otherwise all-black-and-all-boring ensemble.

Off to go do something interesting. Hopefully. ;)

how low can you go?

2010-02-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a particularly good day. Thought I'd make the day right by pairing leopard print with electric blue and gold. I think the results were astonishing.

My classes are absolutely boring, and it kills me. The only thing that manages to get me by, in two of my classes, are the hot guys I am surrounded by. Although one has a girlfriend, the other two do not, and the possibilities are endless. A bit boy crazy for even my tastes, but my motivation runs on attraction to the fair sex. That's really screwed up, but I don't care.

let's make love and listen to death from above

2010-02-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the unbelievable hiatus. Finally got back to school the other day and I'm slowly getting back into the swing of things. I have a lot of reading to do, so I'll post these pictures really quickly.

I decided to go for a boyish theme. Hence the oxford, leather jacket, and the white Chucks. I added the necklace--originally a belt--just for the hell of it. Serves as a little bit of bling.

So with that, I'll dive back into the most boring text known to man, or Plato's Gorgias.

it's all in the hair

2010-01-25T15:13:00.000-08:00

The hair, the miniskirt, the tights, the jacket. Did I mention the hair? Definitely worthy of copying, in my ever-growing book.

And the things that I'd love to evict from life permanently? Actually, they come in the form of songs. At my temporary, bloodsucking office job, I am constantly hearing music that I don't like. Why? Because my boss, 'el douchebag negro' as I like to dub him, ONLY listens to the urban music station. Fine, but he doesn't even allow me to change it to Q101, the rock station that keeps me from going insane--except for when they play that damn "Resistance" song by Muse." The result? Me sitting at my desk, hearing the same songs over and over and over again!

Most of the junk that drives me insane. . .

Anything Drake is on

I get it. He went from Jimmy on "Degrassi" to a forgettable rap artist in 2007, to a big rap artist starting 2009 until now. That's cool and all, but honestly, Drake is like herpes. He's on every song, every mixtape, and will collaborate with anybody who's hot today. What next, is he going to lay his sickness all over the next Vampire Weekend single?

\

Melanie Fiona - It Kills Me

She's 'killing me' with her whiny, totally sappy declaration of not knowing that she needs to leave a douchebag who's not treating her right. Besides, hasn't Keyshia Cole sung this exact same song about fifty times already?

Snoop Dogg - I Wanna Rock

Awesome. You wanna rock. But if I hear you rhyme 'dominoes' with 'vamanos' one more time. . .

Usher - Little Freak

Even the sexually-ambigious Nicki Minaj verse doesn't save this song from getting to me. And I wonder how Stevie Wonder would feel knowing that one of his classics is being used to describe how much a guy wants a whore.

Wacka Flocka - O Let's Do It

His name is Wacka Flocka. Do I even have to go into detail?

And as our token white guests. . .

Muse - The Resistance

Glad to see they're getting the attention they deserve. But why this song? It's so cheesy and lame! Remember back in 2006 when they got some mainstream attention with "Starlight" and "Supermassive Black Hole?" That shit was good. This shit is just. . . shit.

so i'm...

2010-01-16T21:25:00.000-08:00

listening to. . .

Watching. . .

Skins

Coveting. . .

When I saw a slouchy, distressed bag at Forever 21 today, it reminded me of Alexander Wang. Needless to say, I bought it.

Still inspired by. . .

Santogold.

quarantine

2010-01-12T14:23:00.000-08:00

I've been in a really bad mood lately. The days have been filled with pondering the future, evaluating my life as it is right now, and of course, good old-fashioned self-loathing. It seems so lame to feel this way, but I can't apologize for what's been going on.

Normal human beings worry about stuff all the time. I am no exception. I constantly worry about my future and if I'm going to be financially stable. Don't get me wrong, I think I'm doing just fine right now. I have a job at my school and tomorrow, I'm going to see about this business job that could possibly morph into a solid summer job. It's just that with my interests in the creative arts--fashion, writing, and music--I fear for my financial security. I do not want to end up another broke ass black person, re-inforcing the stereotype that none of us will amount to absolutely anything.

Not only this, but I keep worrying about my social well-being. Stuck in this house until the end of the month--my school is very weird with the breaks--I want to do get out and do things as much as possible, but it's hard when your friends are going back before you and the things you want to do aren't even in their interests. Not going out = no pictures for the blog, which makes me even more ashamed to call myself a fashion blogger sometimes.

I'm pretty sure this is just temporary sadness, the type of thing that we all go through every once in a while in our quotidian struggles to matter, but this feeling hits me every once and a while, and hopelessness sets in. The only thing that usually helps is isolation, watching my new favorite teen show from the UK called Skins (an edgier Degrassi if you ask me), and massive amounts of music--namely, Radiohead.

So I will try my damndest to get more going on this blog, meaning more pictures and sexy randomness. Haha. Sexy randomness.

I leave you guys with the song that inspired the title of this post. It sums up how I've been feeling lately. "Quarantine" by Phantom Planet.

By the way, feel free to leave comments if you feel the same way, in college, a bit wayward, not knowing what the future holds. I love all the comments I can get!

sheena is a punk rocker

2010-01-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

The epitome of punk rock fashion, Tripp NYC jeans are always bound to be edge-pushing, stylish, and of course, rock-worthy. While jeans like these can be found in New York's famous Trash and Vaudeville and Hot Topic (most notably the bondage style pants), they are also available on Karmaloop. Since the rocker style is in, these jeans are perfect for the girl who wants to stand out from the crowd.

boots made for walking

2010-01-08T15:27:00.000-08:00

Let me just start off by saying I honestly feel like I'm committing some sort of fashion blogger citation by not posting enough pictures of myself. The reason is because my camera sucks an indefinite amount of ass and refuses to even turn on for me, even though I bought fresh batteries. So bare with me here! I'm trying.

Now that I got that out of the way, let's talk shoes.

Argh. Boots that run my whole life, right next to Jeffrey Campbell. Take a good look at the zebra print ones below.

Next, drool over these babies, black studded Jeffrey Campbell peep-toe ankle boots.

Now look even closer at the girl below you, Nicki Minaj. (I feel like I've been mentioning her waaay too much, but I love her style.)

It appears as if the Young Money female equation has combined the Topshop boots with the Jeffrey Campbell studs and made them look ten times more awesomer! And we thought it couldn't be done. . .

Not to be outdone by Ashish, we also have Emma Cook.

Yes. It's that important.

Also. . . a few nights ago i saw this British film called Tormented. For those wondering, all I do is watch movies because I'm bored as hell. Anyways, the movie is about a group of bitchy teenagers who bully a poor kid until he hangs himself. They think he's dead . . . but he's not! His ghost comes back to give them all what they deserve.

I only checked it out because of Alex Pettyfer. Can you say gorgeous? He was a major douchebag in the movie, but it's still a good one if you want to see a bunch of high school assholes get what they deserve. *silently wonders why she's been watching all these British movies lately*

urban outfitters <3

2010-01-07T20:38:00.000-08:00

Now back to our regularly scheduled program.

My Urban Outfitters catalog finally came today after, what, eight weeks of pining? Here are some of my favorites.

Okay, that girl needs to just hand over the white lace top right now.

The black exaggerated shoulder dress by Silence + Noise? Nice. I've been looking for the perfect bodycon dress, and it would do. Or I could just get the more affordable version from Forever 21...decisions, decisions. Oh, I really want that acid-wash pencil skirt, too.

Of course, there's nothing like actually being in the store. I was there last Halloween with my friends of the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana.

I ended up buying the floral printed top below. It was only $5!

Okay, they look like hobos, but stylish hobos. That's what counts.

This dress is so sexy, and it's just amplified by that silver necklace. Oh, and the random chick in the background is my friend Danielle.

Proof of purchase. . .

Bye bye, overpriced-yet-unabashedly-hipster boutique!

scans...

2010-01-06T07:16:00.000-08:00

I have not slept yet.
I have not slept yet.
I have not slept yet.
I have yet. to go. to sleep.

There's just something about not doing shit over your break, which stretches until January 31st, that compels you to spend all your time doing absolutely nothing of importance rather than staying up, watch television, gaining weight--I think--and tinkering away on a laptop. Gawd, I need some amusement!!!

Then I leafed through my old VIBE magazines and found some interesting things. What I usually do is rip out pages that inspire me. Here a few things that got my creative mind revving.

Gotta love Nicki Minaj's (right) American Apparel skirt.

I always thought that a full head of afro-like curls was just to die for. Beyonce looks awesome and I thought her most beautiful was when she rocking hair like this during the time when she was filming Austin Powers in Goldmember, which is one of my favorites.

And here's the gorgeous Chanel Iman. While she's waaaaay too skinny for me, there's no denying how beautiful she is.

just so you guys know...

2010-01-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

Thought that would be an interesting visual. This whole fashion blogging thing has perplexed me to say the least. I know it's damn near impossible to have a thousand followers in the first few months, but sometimes, I think it is hard to break into the fashion thing. Why? Because--if anyone noticed--it's not like I have someone take pictures of me everytime I leave the house with an awesome, professional camera. I have this shitty little digital one that sucks up battery juice in an instant and is the reason why I have a hard time updating with pics of myself. I can't even aspire to get on Lookbook, which--in my opinion--only posts people who take awesome pictures, regardless of their style, which can be kind of bland and unoriginal in my opinion.

Okay, so I'll probably never be a style icon on Chictopia or be a part of the fashion stratosphere like Rumi Neely, Karla Derass, or Karen Blanchard. Fine. I guess the best part of being only 18 is that you have time to decide what you want to do with your life. For me, writing has always been my passion, but fashion is slowly taking over. No matter, this blog will still run, and hopefully, get waaay better, even if I only average one viewer a day. So now that I have that little rant out of my system. . .what have I been up to lately?

It had to be done. I subscribed to NYLON about two or three weeks ago. Can't wait to see who they get on the February issue! (Hopefully a sista. Hey, a girl can dream. . .)

Got some much needed new swag from Bare Feet Shoes and Kmart a week ago. . .

They look so glam-rock.

More gold jewelry. I swear, these are going with everything.

Two words: BETSEY JOHNSON. No, I wish I could afford Betsey, but this little cardigan from Kmart almost looks like something she'd make. Snatch.

Loved it so much I got in a neutral color.

I had been looking for a cute short skirt that flared. Perfect mix of flirty and sexy. No, I can't wear it yet--unless I want to go to the hospital with a severe case of frostbite--but when I can, I plan to pair it with the heart-printed tights I mentioned earlier. I got them from a UK site called New Look. Good and everything, but the only overseas site I wanna buy stuff from is Topshop. *sighs* One day.

This isn't new, but apparently, it's been lurking in my mom's closet ever since my family took a trip to Wisconsin Dells a whopping six or seven years ago! It's so cute. I could totally see myself wearing it with black skinny jeans and vintage-y tall, brown lace-up boots. The only thing about it? Apparently, it sheds.

I recently saw Dorian Gray starring Ben Barnes and Colin Firth. After reading the book in my English class senior year, imagine how extremely psyched I was that they were making an updated version. For those who are unaware, it's about a highly attractive British newcomer who, to preserve his beauty, lives out devious exploits. A painting of him, therefore, is marred with the ugliness he's been committing, but Dorian remains the same. Still hot.

Needless to say, Ben Barnes is now the target of my unrequited affection.

I saw Donnie Darko, as well. Let me say that movie, while a complete mindfuck to some, was actually quite mind-blowing. In a good way. I'd love to explain what it's about, but I feel I'd be terribly inaccurate.

Also plan to go see Daybreakers in downtown Chicago this Saturday. Geez, you invite a few people, then the numbers escalate. I think we're leaning toward 10+. Haha, and I'm very pleased to be going with my new roommate--you may have noticed that I was always taking pics in my dorm, and that setting will change soon. I moved because my old roommate was less than satisfactory, to say the least--so she can meet my crazy friends. Time to party!

I leave you all with this song that's been in my head for a while. It's so beautiful...

Gimme Gimme Gimme! I need some more!

2009-12-31T00:52:00.000-08:00

It's damn near three in the morning in snowy Chicago. Most people are sleep by now. Okay, no they're not, but the point is, I shouldn't be up on Forever 21's website coveting their new arrivals. I have an addiction. (No, the real reason I'm up this late is because I was trying to watch Dorian Gray online but it decided to bitch out on me, so now I'm waiting on another source to load. There goes my Ben Barnes fix!) Anyways, these are the goodies I'd love to own...

A sexy black bodysuit to show off my curves. To be worn with denim vests, denim jackets, gladiator sandals, Doc Martens, and layered underneath long sleeves.

The perfect floral dress, grungy with a leather jacket, ripped sheer pantyhose, and Doc Martens. Summer feminine when worn with a denim jacket or a cardigan.

Rockstar pants! Honestly, these bad boys stand out all alone. Especially with the size of my derriere. :)

Such a statement piece. Leopard print--my new favorite print--with the ruching on the side PLUS a zipper? Must have. To be worn with light-wash denim jeans, and maybe--just maybe--when alone with a pair of jeans once abs are acquired. ;)

Style Icon: Agyness Deyn

2009-12-29T06:14:00.000-08:00

Okay, so she's the epitome of blase model. She's a waif, traipses around with rockstars, and has the most eclectic style on the planet. While this may classify her under the 'nothing new' category, Agyness Deyn--nee Laura Hollins--has definitely made waves amongst the fashionista circuits as having a daring, bold choice of fashion. Check below to see what I mean.

She frequently loves to employ color, patterns, and menswear themes. She's also a fan of the feminine kitsch, as evidenced by her choice of red tights, a ruffled white dress, and sneakers! Agyness's quirky style has become fashion blog fodder--clears throat--and has been on my radar ever since last year. Well played, Laura. Well played.

jocko homo

2009-12-23T17:54:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day I've been out since I got back from college. Very happy because I got a new phone! I loved my pink Razr, but I've had it forever, so it's time to move on.

It's an LG Xenon. Yes, that is cover of Devo's first album. I love them!

So while out, I decided to forgo the oversized black peacoat and wear something cute for a change. I finally found a leather jacket from Forever 21 (I practically live there) and wore this instead. I layered two long sleeve shirt tees and wrapped a wool scarf around me. Voila. Shield from the bitter cold. ;)

I've been working on this little fashion scrapbook thing, too. Just a little fun side activity to show off the things that inspire my mojo. Christmas is in only TWO days. Very excited. I know I have a guitar underneath that tree somewhere. . . and whatever piece of clothing my mom got me. She knows my style, I just hope it's nothing boring. We'll see. . .

Obsession: Tights with heart patterns

2009-12-18T12:59:00.001-08:00

What is it about patterned tights that has the fashion world abuzz? Even on sites such as Lookbook and little street style blogs, patterned tights seem to be what's up at the moment. Especially ones with diminutive hearts scattered about, making me want them even more.

(From Lookbook.nu)

(Modcloth tights)

Now if only someone could tell me where I could get these amazing tights so I can wear them in the summer, I'd be content. Maybe I'll stumble upon them the next time I hit up H&M? A girl can dream. . .

One more week until Christmas!!!! What do you guys want from Santa?

Style Icon: Shingai Shoniwa

2009-12-12T16:25:00.000-08:00

In a sea of emaciated, pale-thin, blonde icons--yes, you fall in the category, Agyness Deyn, but I love you, so don't take it personally!--it seems like black women are sadly left out of the equation. But in my book, this lady reigns supreme.

This is Shingai Shoniwa--let's say it together: SHIN-gee SHO-nee-wah--of the Noisettes, an indie rock/alternative/soul hybrid band. Just by looking at her hair, you can tell she's unique. I love Shingai because there's such a drought of positive black women role models who aren't talking about sex or trying to beat guys at their own game.

Love her vintage-y, kitschy look. She always exudes the rockstar persona, either in a gold dress that barely covers her ass or her out-of-this-world hair that only she could pull off.

To really hear their sound, try "Don't Give Up," from their first album, What's The Time Mr. Wolf?

Their latest is titled Wild Young Hearts available now!

massive attack

2009-12-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

The dreaded finals are next week. That means twenty-three hour quiet hours, no sleep, and unsurmountable stress. Yay college. Honestly, I can't wait until this is over so I can go home and do absolutely nothing for about two months. On second thought, I'm dreading going home so I can do absolutely nothing for about two months. :(

A little peek at what I wore yesterday.

Vest: Bare Feet Shoes. Shirt: Random. Jeans: Wetseal. Boots: Bare Feet Shoes.

I am wholeheartedly obsessed with these boots, even if they do massacre my right pinky toe. Got them from this store called Bare Feet Shoes near the mall by where I live. Also got that cute white vest from there, too. I thought about it forever, and since I had to go back to get rain boots--because it FINALLY snowed today!!!--I nabbed that as well. There's something so cute about it. I want to wear it in the summer with my Hush Sound band t-shirt, shorts, and the aforementioned boots.

Off to do a shitload of work. Ugh. Peace until then.

billie jean

2009-12-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

Sequins are not to be worn during the hours between noon and four. Sequins are formal, and definitely not to be paired with anything simple like jeans. Should one decide to step out during the daytime wearing this elegant, intricate material, one will be ostracized, her fashion credibility questioned highly. - An excerpt from the Book of Style Rules that Suck Ass and Need to Be Broken...Starting with that Lame "Don't Wear White After Labor Day Bullshit."

*puts hand to mouth* Guess I'm the fashion victim!

Sequin jacket: Forever 21. Jeans: Wetseal. T-shirt: Random. Shoes: Doc Martens. Ring: Random. Hat: Random. Scarf: Random.

The scarf reminds me so much of some Alexander McQueen or even Thomas Wylde design from the past. I got it so long ago from a store in the hood--where I used to shop for deals before I realized how much I love my big three (H&M, Forever 21, Wetseal). My outfit actually got a nasty look from some girl, which basically means that my task was accomplished.

i will follow you into the dark

2009-12-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

Little glimpse of what I wore the other day...

Obviously obsessed with these shoes...

Cardigan: H&M. Graffiti tank: Forever 21. Jeans: Payhalf. Cuff: Hot Topic. Chain: Thrifted. Boots: Doc Martens

I am wholly in love with that tank. It's long, which means I can belt it to make it short, or simply knot it. I was thinking of monochromes when I chose this outfit. All the grays and blacks broken up by a white tank was a good idea to me. Plus, since I gravitate more toward the whole edgy rocker chick look, I wore that studded bracelet and bad ass chain. I feel like I wear the same thing though, but I'm just good at mixing and matching. Must. get. more. clothes! LOL.

i think ur a contra

2009-12-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

A-Punk. Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa. The Kids Don't Stand A Chance. Oxford Comma. Cousins. Horchata. What do these songs all have in common?

Not only the cutie lead singer Ezra Koenig, but the band he fronts, known as Vampire Weekend. I've been bumping them ever since I heard their new song "Horchata," and I'm thrilled that their new album is coming out soon! Will admit, I wasn't too keen on them when I first heard "A-Punk," but they won me over with their catchy melodies.

In case you're wondering, no this isn't one of their girlfriends, it's actually some old photo from the seventies. *sigh of relief* The album is due out January 12th of next year.

In other news. . .True Blood's third season begins filming today! So geeked! Can't wait to find out what happened to Bill. Is anybody else a Truebie? (Quietly laughs at the irony that this post is full of vampire references.)

maps

2009-12-01T17:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I experimented with these awesome Forever 21 leggings. (If you can't tell by now, it's my favorite store!)

Fell in love with them as soon as I saw them on the hanger!

Please forgive my dirty ass mirror. I'm lazy. LOLOLOL

I got this vest SOOO long ago. Anybody remember Thalia's line called Sodi? It was years ago, but I still have it, and I'm glad I never got rid of it. Perfect biker chick accessory. Just look at that sexy corset-style detailing!

Leggings: Forever 21. Dress: Kmart (from years ago). Vest: Sodi by Thalia. Boots: Hot Topic. Glasses: Converse.

Here's a little peek at my playlist for the last few minutes.

Lips Like Morphine - Kill Hannah
Atlantis to Interzone - Klaxons
Heartbeats - The Knife
Liquid Lava Love - Kevin Michael
Over and Over - Hot Chip

Total music freak, as you guys can see. My Zune is filled to bursting--2700 songs and counting! The only thing that irks me is that nobody else at my microscopic school seems to appreciate the weird shit I listen to...or the fashion! Nobody around here even fathoms wearing anything that doesn't involve UGGs, North Face, or college sweatshirts and pants. *sigh* Sometimes it makes me feel out of place, but fashion is my expression. My body is my canvas. Why not show it? Besides, being the oddball was my specialty back at my high school, college should be no different. And like Lady Gaga said, it's okay to be a freak. ;)

Hope you guys had a fantastic Thanksgiving!

super furry animals

2009-11-27T19:10:00.000-08:00

So I was browsing through Topshop--as usual--and stumbled upon this amazing little coat.

This really reminds me of something Karen Blanchard would wear. It has this glamorous yet cozy feel to it, and can really do wonders to something as simple as a grey t-shirt. Let me show you guys what I mean.

Untitled by bjorkismyhomie featuring Marc Jacobs sunglasses

Items in this set:
T by Alexander Wang dress, $85
TopShop jacket, 160 GBP
TopShop jeans, 40 GBP
White Mountain boots, $69
Marc Jacobs sunglasses, $219

My idea of this whole glam/casual thing is the jacket paired with light-wash jeans and black boots. The aviators cool up the outfit, and the black boots pull the color scheme together. Seriously, this freaking reeks of Karen Blanchard.

Now for the formal way this coat can be worn.

Untitled by bjorkismyhomie featuring TopShop

Items in this set:
Camilla and Marc dress, $550
TopShop jacket, 160 GBP
TopShop shoes, 150 GBP
Givenchy necklace, 1.589 EUR
Falke tights, $275

The mongolian fur works wonders against subtle textures like silk. Again, playing with the extremes, it contrasts the pale pink, but the rest of the outfit is black, keeping everything from becoming too extreme. Black tights and uber-trendy peep-toe ankle wedge boots complete the look, along with piles and piles of hot jewelry to amp up the glam look.

*BTW, I would just like to let the readers know that I am in no way able to afford the expensive items that I feature. They're just pictures, in my opinion. I'm not a complete snob who only wears designer! I thrift and find deals just like the rest of us!*

On another note, I saw Ninja Assassin with my friend Jessica, and was floored!! Rain is unbelievably hot, and the blood and gore in the movie? A+. Yes, movies with excessive violence are kind of my thing. Gimme that over a lame chick flick anyday. Guess that's the 'guy' in me. Haha.

when i see you

2009-11-25T22:03:00.000-08:00

I'm listening to a metal band called Gojira at the moment, wondering exactly how I came to like such harsh and discordant music! I've evolved from pop rock to indie, alternative, and now metal and/or metalcore. Not only that, but I'm headbanging to the songs. . . that really hurts your neck.

Going home SUCKED. Pouring rain, heavy ass luggage, and hopping from train to bus to another train was annoying. Not only that, but I lost my damn umbrella because Chicago winds are complete douchebags. *rolls eyes* Whatever. I'm home now, where the world makes sense.

Today, I left the house with the bro and my mom to run some errands.

I'm absolutely in love with this ring.

Came home and had my bro do a little impromptu snap-snap.

Love how something as simple as pink shoelaces can make everything just go pop! It really is about that one tiny splash of color, you know? Forever 21 sweatshirt, WetSeal jeans, mom's vintage vest, and the Doc Martens, of course.

By the way, I am totally in love with The Moog's song "When I See You." I watch MTV2's Subterranean a lot, and this little gem called my name!

Not only is this song super-catchy, but the lead singer is freaking HOT! That is one cutie. Check their Myspace here.

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!!!

red rain

2009-11-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

Dreary weather today. I'm so excited because I'm going home! Straight after work, no less. So ready to hit my own room, sleep for hours, and of course, pig out on homecooked Thanksgiving dinner. Yum.

Something about red Chucks just says 'I'm down for anything' to me. That, and the whole eighties vibe.

So you can pretty much guess what I wore yesterday. I wanted to be an eighties dude. Oversized button-up and all. ;)

Off to a newspaper meeting. Then food, work, and the train ride home!

While the city sleeps, we rule the streets

2009-11-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

So the other day, even though I had to think of something coherent to say for an acting class, I decided to head to downtown Chicago with a friend. I thought it'd be the perrrrfect opportunity to get some personal shots in, and show you guys the awesome stuff I wish I could afford. (Damn his ass for taking me to freaking Macy's and Nordstrom when I normally go for more affordable Forever 21, Wetseal, and Urban Outfitters!)

My pride and joy, this sexy Forever 21 bag. I just love the chain-mail detaling, and it's white instead of black. You know how you go to a store and don't get something, but then realize you need it in your life and run back to it? That's what happened to me. :D

Everything Forever 21 except my Hot Topic boots.

Apparently, I wasn't a true Chicagoan unless I tasted these delicious morsels. I had never even heard of them, and my friend ridiculed me for about five blocks.

Made me hungrier than I already was...

These boots own my soul. I've seen other bloggers wearing them, like Jazzi McG and Karla Derass and was instantly smitten!

Another view of these bitches...

I just think this is such a genius mix of patterns, colors, and detailing. By the way, I'm completely awestruck by Rachel Roy's line. Nothing but studs, fun prints, graffiti, and the sexiest combo of classy/edgy that I always try to recreate when I get dressed in the morning.

That's all for now, folks! Maybe I'll find something constructive to do--like my English paper--while listening to Kanye and eagerly awaiting the arrival of tomorrow, when I go home for Thanksgiving break! Plan on catching Ninja Assassin, New Moon--yeah I know, I'm a stupid Twihyper, but if it helps, I prefer True Blood--and maybe even Precious. Oh, and of course, hanging out with the fam.

Diamonds Aren't Forever

2009-11-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

I like to tinker around on Polyvore. Mixing and matching different outfit ideas that look similar to that of magazines is what this site is good for. So I came up with this edgy glam concept. Basically, it combines notoriously feminine details and tougher ones into one glamorized, sexy/fussy sort of thing.

Generally, when you think of feminine detailing, you think of things such as...

ruffles
sequins
pastel colors
lace
bodycon
diamonds

And when you think of hardcore/rough aspects, you think of...

leather
ripped jeans
buckles
zippers
rugged soles

So when you combine the two, you get something like this...

edgy glam by bjorkismyhomie featuring Seven For All Mankind jeans

music videos that are completely fashion worthy

2009-11-21T12:37:00.000-08:00

Ever seen a music video and thought, damn, the music is amazing, but where did the clothes come from? So do I. These are a few videos that have caught my attention when it comes to the eye-popping clothes everyone is wearing. (In no particular order)

Eve - Tambourine

Poppy colors, an abundance of makeup, and that cute little yellow fluorescent chair! Eve's 2007 hit was filled to the brim with fashion that we still see on the runway today. Main points I'm talking about?

Her black sequined mini dress
Those liquid leggings that she paired with a yellow halter
the UBIQUITIOUS Herve Leger bandage dress in a deep purple hue

LEOPARD. PRINT.

In 2007, most of these trends were considered temporary, with the consistency of a season, kind of like Lindsay Lohan's acting career. But lo and behold, you can still pick up latex leggings at WetSeal, leopard print is high in demand, sequins are IN, and well, the bandage dress hype may have died down, but earlier this year and last year, you wouldn't catch a sexy Hollywood femme fetale--or an uneventful D-lister--not constricted in Herve Leger's masterpiece.

Barcelona - The Plastiscines

Guess it's not too surprising that they're under NYLON's music label. I mean, look at their clothes! Who else could rock a pink patent leather cropped jacket with statement-inducing thigh high boots--exactly what kind of pattern is that anyway?--and get away with it? Lead singer Katy Besnard knows how. Maybe its the flair of the French, but these girls have style. It's refreshing to see people actually play with fashion. For example, take the wonderful band member who wore a leather minidress paired with the white lace tights. Or those purple boots with the diamond-detailing down the spine of the heel. . .

Bad Romance - Lady Gaga

Honestly, any Lady Gaga video will earn its title as a fashion work of art. Doesn't matter if she's wearing a fucking Mickey Mouse ensemble, head-to-toe Alexander McQueen, or a full latex bodysuit. But we'll focus on her latest, since she went all out. The costumes this woman wears are just out of this world. Who could forget that robe with the bear-rug-train? The lady is on her way to becoming a fashion icon, like her predecessor, Madonna. She had the cone-bra and the whole fingerless lace gloves thing, and now Lady Gaga has. . . too many idiosyncratic moments to count!

Pop the Glock - Uffie

Not sure what's going on in this video (hipster-fashion orgy, just plain orgy in general, or a XXX'd Old Navy commercial) but let's get one thing straight: the style is what's up. From Uff's to-die-for jumpsuit, or those electric red ankle boots that stayed by her side during the beginning of the video, the fashions managed to be louder than Uffie's cocky persona. And who doesn't love the cute little magazine animations! Felt like reading NYLON magazine all over again. . .

What do you guys think? What other music videos just reek of fashion?