Update #65: Closed For Renovations

Okay, I am so not looking fashionable here. I'm actually in my paint clothes or my creative gear as I like to refer to it. I was actually on my way back outside to paint the fence when it dawned on me how busy C is. She is going to be away for the better part of the coming month and since this particular blog is about both of our styles, I thought why not put this one on hold til' she returns! Note** This photo is supposed to be my viola (or ah-ha) moment! ^_^

So until she returns, I'll be over at Operation Modelhut (I need to get that off the ground anyway!) and C will be at Live to Nibble or flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/cding11/). That way when we reconvene, we'll have something fresh to offer you all, and each other! See you in a month!

Update #64: No Rain Today!!!

I had to do a self portrait, cause the bf had to work a double. I cut my feet off but you can get the gist of what's going on here. Today was a gorgeous, sunny and lightly windy spring day. Just a great day to be outside. I thought why not try to get one last wear out of this tunic. And it was simply perfect for the day. Thanks again C, I really adore this piece!

(Marc Jacobs tunic; Newport News sleeveless turtleneck dress; Victoria's Secret Hosiery; and Harley Davidson boots - though you can't see them!)

This is C. Sorry I haven't been here. Busy busy busy. Truth be told, Gigi is running this site just perfectly without me. :) Keep going Gigi!!!! I do, however, always upload my photos from the camera to my flickr account, so you can see and comment on them there if you'd like. http://www.flickr.com/photos/cding11/

Update #63: Puttin' on the Ritz

Hi there folks. We're back! I got a nasty stomach flu that put me down for a spell, but I'm ready to give this fashion thing one more try. So, this is my goodbye to winter photo. Today is April 15th and typically marks the end of cold weather for GA. I will pack up my scarfs, fedoras, & ties til' the next cold snap. Boy will I miss these accessories. It's fun to hide behind them all. I've had a great time doing just that. I will warn you now that spring/summer is not my strong suit. Thank goodness for C. She's got that all around talent that no matter the season, she's well put together. I must admit that I love to see this time roll around, as I know she will knock my socks off! And I can't wait. I saw her today in the hall, I don't think she saw me cause I was pushing a very large cart holding lots of boxes. I smiled big because I knew right then and there, it's gonna to be one hell of a summer for fashion! Anyhow, I promise to do what I can to keep you folks entertained, but don't get your hopes up is all I can say.

(Fedora, Tie, Cuff links & Cane all Vintage; Kashmere scarf; Brooks Brothers shirt; Thrifted vest; Buffalo by David Bitton pants; Marc Fisher wingtip shoes)

Oh, so I totally feel like I missed a day in my life. It stormed really bad on Friday (we lost power for a spell), therefore, I didn't have a chance to post Good Friday's photo. Here it is. I hope C will post her's too. Enjoy!

(Vintage fedora; Adriana Papel bolero; Victoria's Secret tank top; Thrifted jeans; Harley Davidson boots)

Update #62: A Day Of Comfort

Today I didn't really know how to be stylish and functional at the same time. What I mean is, I had to throw around a lot of boxes and sit on the floor. That meant finding something I could feel comfortable in while seated in 'sitting pose' for a better part of the day. This was the best I could do. I guess I should look into a yoga pant that doesn't look like a yoga pant, if you get my drift. That way I can be comfy and still be stylish.

(Banana Republic t'shirt; Thrifted satin vest; Vintage belt; French Connection pants; Marc Fisher wingtip shoes)
Don't worry, I put on a slip before heading out the door. This shot almost makes me look like a person of normal height. How cool!

Update #61: Don't Come Around Here No More

I can't tell you how wonderful it is to be back sleeping in my own bed. I doubt that any of you reading this blog has missed me though, considering how nicely gigi had kept up the content. :) Maybe she should just change the title to A Tale of Ever Evolving Style, so I can just bow out. :) Anyway, nothing like a little bright colors and sparkles to disguise the many days of not sleeping enough. Life should be better after I dig myself out of the piles of work I am buried under.

I love Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. Their music is just killer. When I was much younger, they came out with an Alice in Wonderland type video for their song, 'Don't Come Around Here No More.' Instantly, I knew I wanted a house like that. I used tell my friends that when I was rich and famous, I'll have a house like that. Well... I'm far from rich or even famous!

On a whim, I told my bf (who is an artist by trade) that I wanted a house like that. That dear soul went into action and well... it's taken 7 years and we're far from finished, but I can look around and truly see my "wonderland." If not now more than ever, I truly believe in dreaming. I can honestly say that if you hold an image in your head long enough, it will come to fruition. Nearly 20 years later, mine has.

(Banana Republic cardigan; Diane Von Furstenberg dress; Victoria's Secret hosiery; Harley Davidson boots)

Update #60: Oh Happy Day!

Hooray! C has returned. I know this for fact as I saw her in the flesh. Poor thing works so hard. But that's what happens when you're good at what you do. Am I right? Anyhow, I have to cut my post short. The bf just hollered from the kitchen that dinner is almost served! Mmmmm....

(Zucca jacket refashioned by GigiV.; Thrifted tee; Undersilk; Newport News Leggings; Etienne Aigner boots)

Update #59: Just One More Day

Welp, just one more day and I'll have my C back. I know I keep saying that, but I heard from the top that she'll be back tomorrow. I tell you what, if it doesn't come to fruition tomorrow, I'll know I have friends in no places! :) So C, I'm still hanging on, or shall I say signing on, til' you return!

(BCBG cardigan; Diane Von Furstenberg dress - refashioned by GigiV.; Victoria's Secret slip dress; Nordstroms hosiery; Harley Davidson boots)

Update #58: One Is The Loneliest Number

I have it on good authority that C will return on the 6th or so I hope. This is no fun without her. Okay, just half fun. I need my other half. Besides, isn't this a tale of two styles! :-) So, C, travel safely and come back with lots of fun anecdotes! See you soon.

(J Crew jacket; Thrifted silk shirt; Linea Pelle waist belt; Buffalo by David Bitton jeans; Issac Mizrahi boots)

Update #57: Where in the World is C?

I'm missing me some C. She must be very busy. Every night I check anxious to see what color she'll unveil, but alas, nada. Oh well, I'm a patient person, but when she does pop back in, it's gonna be dandy!

I saw my friend again and she says, "alright baby, Ralph! Now that's what I'm talking about!" I giggled, cause honestly, I was going for the Breakfast Club look! So, imagine how happy I was to get the compliment. Yes sir!

(BCBG blazer; Brooks Bros. button down; Vintage tie; Young Fabulous & Brook legging; Cole Haan g-series boots)

Update #56: Elsa

Today's ensemble is inspired by none other than Elsa Schiaparelli. She was known for her use of color and "shocking" designs. I really tried to find a hat that would compliment the outfit, but could not. I knew I shoulda' bought that black suede hat shaped like a pump, when I had the chance! It would have been perfect! Anyhow, I'm trying to pull off a John Galliano inspiration next, but am having much trouble. He is so all over the place (in a good way) that I can't sum him up in one outfit. I suppose I'll have to dress like a pirate. That would work, but that's too obvious. Okay, I'm rambling now. Signing off! -Muah

(Estudio Chocolate suede harlequin skirt suit; DVF silk tank; Victoria's Secret hosiery; Nickels suede pumps)

Update #55: Karl

Not much to say except today I'm invoking Karl Lagerfeld. Love him!!!

P.S. - I so forgot to put on my shades! Dammit!

(Vintage wool blazer; Brooks Bros. button down; Lulu Guinness studded scarf; BCBG mini skirt; Young Fabulous & Broke leggings; Harley Davidson boots & gloves)

Update #54: Super Fly

I love me some Roberto Cavalli. That man knows how to make clothes for women. I remember reading an article that said his wife was also an integral part in the business as well. If that's the case, then they both ROCK! Today's ensemble is inspired by Mr. & Mrs. Cavalli. I just adore what ya'll do.

Oh, as a side note, I ran into a girlfriend at the coffee shop this morning and she says to me, "looking slick, G, I love it." I say thanks and tell her it's for RC and she says, "oh, I thought you were supposed to be Super Fly!" I said, "nope, but you just gave me a killer Halloween costume idea!" :)

(Vintage Jack McConnell hat; thrifted scarf; Brooks Bros. Button down; Diane Von Furstenberg pantsuit; Stuart Weitzman platforms)

Sometimes the way to make less boring a conservatively cut dress is with color and a bit of texture that is interest but won't immediately jump out at you. Here is a very simply cut dress in my favorite bold orange over a pair of lightly chevron patterned navy tights. I like look down and count the chevron layers on the tights during meetings. It makes me seem focused and thoughtful. :)

Update #53: My So-Called "Drag" Shot

I don't suppose that this photo can pass as the kind of drag shot that gigi is referring to. Rather, when I wear this dress, I feel like a modern day flower child. I say modern because my flowy chiffon dress has these cool pockets that create a billowing draped shape that I see often in more modern designs. The pockets are too thin and shallow to be any good for holding stuff, but they are oh so fun to stick the hands in. To tie in a bit more of that 60s feel, I threw on a vintage coin belt gigi and I found on our vintage shopping excursion a few months ago. The funny thing is, here in Shanghai, the flower child concept is not well known, but I got quite a few compliments on putting together a very "pop star Korean look." Whatever that is, I am sure it's pretty cool too. :)

I love it when the bf takes my picture, he just snaps away while I do silly stuff. It was his opinion that I try to act more natural, but every time he went, "okay, 1-2-3," click!!, I'd strike what I considered a 'natural ' pose. Honey, every last one of them came out looking crazy. I looked like a drag queen! The worst one (which I will never share with the world) was of me getting my side profile on while sucking in my cheeks and arching my shoulders! So moments before this photo was snapped, my bf says, "um, you might want to scrap the "natural" bit cause you're coming out a little dude-ish looking. A pretty dude, but still a dude!" Man, I laughed so hard and before I knew it, the camera went, 'click!' So bf hands the camera back to me and says, "see, that wasn't so bad now was it!"

(Adriana Papel bolero; Lulu Guinness studded scarf; thrifted tank; Lucky Jeans; Cole Haan g-series boots)

(one of my so-called "drag" shots! LOL!!!)

Aw Freak Out!

Le freak, c'est chic! Hello, hello! This is my tribute to the late 70's/early 80's era. Don't get me wrong, I hate 80's style. I'm sorry, but I just do. I don't get it. I guess I'm old and set in my ways, but I just don't get it. Anyhow, this is for all you gals dying to wear harem pants and anything neon, I pay tribute to you. I don't even want to know what the guys are wearing. That's a lie, yes I do. Please comment and tell me what 80's item is hot on the men's side. Muah!

(Younger Knits sweater; Young Fabulous & Broke cashmere leggings; Frye boots)
I am sorry to put out this kind of headless shot, but I was running out of the door and was running out of time. It's raining in Shanghai again. I hate this wet and cold weather that chills one to the bone. Even in the family house, where a separate heater pipes in hot air in every single room, there is still a zip in the air outside of the bedroom. So I pretty much wear my jacket around even indoor. This spotted thing is the perfect length and weight to suit most cooler conditions and can be dressed up or down for most occasions. As such, it has become my favorite travel jacket and has gone with me to at least three continents. It looks about sturdy enough to survive a few more, I think. :) Hope you are all keep warm wherever you are.

My Little Pony

Serious business engagements are the same whether one is back home or here in Shanghai. Too much flash or creativity in clothes in these cases do take away some of one's credibility in certain circles. So here is the appropriate, if not most interesting, suit getup for a meeting. At least I didn't go the route of the matching suit separates, at least they fit, and at least I have the red shoes and scarf for some color. I thrive in the at leasts on these days. :)

When I was little, I wanted a pony. Not really sure why as I grew up in the concrete jungle, but that's what the fairy tales tell you, so that's what I wanted. Got on my first horse when I was 21 and I was scared to death. I suppose he knew I was scared too. It didn't help that his name was Psycho! I'll never forget the instructor telling me, "whatch out for Psycho, cause he likes to kick the other horses, so don't let him get near the others." Hell, I could barely stay on the thing, let alone keep Psycho in check! He did what he wanted. Thankfully, he decided to go grazing instead of kicking anything. I assume that's what he was doing. Anyhow, instead of staying in formation with the rest of the trail, he decided to go off into a field and chew on lord knows what. I was just along for the ride. I sat there and waited til' he was done and then we moseyed on along. Honestly, I think Psycho sensed I was scared shitless and gave me a break. After it was all over, I brushed his coat and sang to him. I think he liked that. He gave me a very slimy horse type kiss. I suppose he liked it. Anyhow, that was in West Virginia. Who knew you could have fun like that in West Virginia!

(Vintage equestrian hat; Stelle by Gilber Gilmore jacket; Brooks Bros. button down; Zara turtleneck; French Connection pants; Isabella Fiore embroidered boots)

Update #50: Liquid gold

Hi all, we're back from sunny Florida and what a wonderful and relaxing trip it was. Yes, that's right, I wore heels to the beach! I always do. I had a pair of beach sandals in my bag, but that was for later. Style first! :) Sorry I could not post earlier, but I was in a remote area called Tarpon Springs. Okay, it's not all that remote, but I wanted it to be and thus, that's what it became. I turned off my phone, left my computer at home and read nothing but a trashy novel while sipping piña coladas! I needed to decompress. Besides, my ox fortune told me to travel lots this year and that's what I plan to do. Why not? I've only got this one life (that I know of). I plan to live the hell out of it! The shot above included the bf. I had other shots, but thought why not include him, since I talk with him so much about this blog, it's as if he's a part of it too really. After all, the "skirt" I'm wearing was once his Ed Hardy t'shirt. He didn't like all the rhinestones and it was terribly large for him as a shirt anyway. I didn't like the shirt as a shirt, but thought it would make a killer skirt! And so that's what it became. The bf didn't mind too much, he's so encouraging when it comes to my love of clothes. He's always sure to remind me that when one door closes, try a window and if there is no window, well... tear down a wall! BTW, that advice goes for everyone out there, not just me. :)

(Gucci sunglasses; Salvatore Ferragamo scarf; Top Shop t'shirt; Ed Hardy t'shirt refashioned into a skirt by GigiV; Ellen Tracy socks; Cole Haan boots; AND the best accessory of all, my bf - Michael!)
(Better close-up of the former Ed Hardy t'shirt, now skirt!!)

Please excused the startled look on my face. There was no intruder in the house, just an unexpected double flash. Gigi is off to Florida on vacation today, but we have agreed that we'll try to keep up with the postings on the road. This applies to her as well as me, especially during my upcoming travels to China. So we'll see if she pops in with her post.

Today, I finally pulled out this necklace, a surprise present from my husband some time back. He has certainly come a long way with his gift giving. When we first started out, he picked out dainty things for me, things that all the girls he used to know liked. I appreciated his gestures very much, but delicate chains and demure sparkley things are just not for me, however expensive they may be. He soon figured out that I am much happier with $5 street market glass beads if they added good colors or interesting shapes to my outfits. Since then, he has gotten in sync with my aesthetics and now gives me the most fabulously fun stuff, like this waterfall necklace that drapes like liquid. I don't know about others, but I'd much rather have many little surprises that put a smile on my face than some diamond solitaire that looks like something everyone else has.

Update #49: shopping in my own closet

A loft is not for someone who likes to hoard stuff. Despite what people may think, I am not a hoarder. In fact, I share a single non-walk-in type closet with the husband EQUALLY and he gets about 80% of the dresser space in the house (I hate dressers). I am not saying that he is obsessed with clothes. He is not. He just likes to save all the old t-shirts and his clothes are a lot bigger. :) Anyway, the point is despite the limited closet space I have, there are enough goodies in there to play with and I never forget exactly what I have. I think the secret is to have lots of dresses that can play on their own or with the jackets/cardigans that you can mix and match with the dresses. Very few of my things wrinkle, so when packing, I can roll everything into a ball and it'd be just fine. People are always surprised that I can pack a single overnight bag and dress out of it for a week and don't look like I am repeating. So here is a dress and jacket combo again. I got quite a few compliments today and everyone thought the skirt was separate. So dresses that look like separates are even more interesting and flexible to play with. :)

Well, I guess I'm a hoarder. I have two walk-in closets (though one is not really used properly) and two very narrow closets. Along with another temporary closet type looking thing my bf got for me. Does the bf have space for clothes? I suppose he does, but he's quite practical and doesn't require much. Thank goodness, as it would be crazy here. Oh, I forgot about the trunks I keep too. They are for last season's clothes. What that means is, that my spring/summer clothes are packed into trunks and fall/winter go into the closets. When I'm sure we're over the cold snaps, then fall/winter will go into the trunks and well... you get the routine. I honestly don't think I have a lot of clothes. My problem is shoes and coats. Yeah, I gotta lot of those. I suppose it comes from my youth. My mother was a single mom, working as a waitress to support three kids. And I had some type of foot issue that required I wear special shoes. Only problem was, I continued to grow. One season I'd get a coat, the next shoes as that's all she could afford. So while one thing fit, the other didn't. I guess subconsciously, I collect coats and shoes for that reason. BUT, I make sure I use everything I own. If it does not get used, I give it to charity or to friends and so forth.

Oh, welcome to my home. My home is officially 100 years old this year!! It's a craftsman bungalow with what they call a Victorian package. All that means is, I have high ceilings. In today's pic, I am standing next to one of my inspirations. You can just barely see her in the left corner. It's Dorothy Dandridge! On the other side, are The Ramones! Don't forget, I'm a drummer. I was born punk rock, I'm quite sure of it! Oh yeah, and above me is a picture of what used to be Techwood projects here in Atlanta. I keep that picture to always remind me that it's not how you start, it's how you finish!

Today's look is my version of a Lolita doll. My bf loves them. So Mr. M, this one is for you. Muah!

(Vintage hat & belt; Bloomingdale's trapeze dress; Leg Avenue hosiery & socks; Matiko patent leather boots)

Update #48: Out into more colorful territory

Gigi and I decided that we'd have a lot more fun taking this little hobby of ours out to the more colorful world. What do you think? All I can say about her photo is "FIERCE"! :)

(Vintage leather jacket & fedora; Gucci sunglasses; Lulu Guinness studded scarf; Josephine Chaus embroidered tank; Victoria's Secret satin pants; Stuart Weitzman "Chain Alto" boots; AND my homeboy's Dodge Charger - Thanks a million, T.P.!)

Welcome to my home! In case the husband happen to see me wearing shoes here, please know that I've disinfected the soles before stepping on the carpet. :) Yes, we Asians are paranoid about such things, but I'll assure you that it's very nice to live in a house free of outside dirt. The really interesting part of this outfit is what you don't see. This Marciano dress is incredibly sheer on top and low cut to the point that I'd probably never wear it without something to cover it. But covered this way, it actually passes as a pretty fun scrunched skirt. I am so happy to be able to wear the orange slides now. It just says summer to me. Orange is the color of happiness, I am certain of that.

Weekday update #47: Green With Envy

Ok, this will be the first and last time I'll talk about something other than the outfit here. I am going to ask Gigi to put post #44 back on the blog. If gigi feels compelled to remove her words, at least we can have the photos back? When we started this humble little blog of ours, we had only wanted this to be a place for beautiful things. It's a happy place where we intend to generate happy memories. We thank you for visiting and hope your short stay injects a little lightheartedness into your busy day. Neither of us, I think, is so ungrateful as to bite the hand that feeds us and makes many of these beautiful things possible. Let's just all be happy. :)

I have decided to take up the art of haiku. Enjoy!

A sapling
Cannot grow
In the shadow of a mighty oak.

(Egyptian beaded scarf; Zucca jacket; Saks Fifth Avenue tank; thrifted pants; Etienne Aigner boots)

Photos of post #44 back from the deleted bin :)

Weekday update #46: Yellow Hot Pants

Over the weekend, I attended a clothing swap/sale type of event. It was held at a colleagues home and was done up quite proper. She and about 5 girlfriends decided to either sale or swap clothes that they were no longer using. There were hors d'oeuvres, champagne, and lots of smiles to go around. I didn't quite know what to expect as I've attended this type of event before and was utterly disappointed. This event, however, was very different. Not only did I score some killer clothing at prices that were unheard of, but I also got to mingle with an eclectic group of women. All were gorgeous. All were artistic. And all were so encouraging. Let me tell you, that's odd. Being a woman, I know. It's rare to find a room full of women where there is no drama. Rare! How inspiring it was to speak with ladies following their passions and living their lives on their own terms. Mesmerizing to say the least.

(Adrianna Papell bolero; Victoria's Secret top & pants; Cole Haan g-series boots)

After seeing gigi's killer jacket, I was so jealous! Most of all because I had to skip the event, not because I wasn't invited, but because I was working! I know, what a reason. But the job is what pays for everything nice in my life, so I gratefully deal, most of the time, until I am reminded of what I missed. :) To be honest, the job isn't bad, at least I have a window, unless it's a day like today, where the mist pretty much covered up everything outside. What's a girl to do for a little bit of sunshine? She has got to bring it herself! It's all about positive thinking, right? I think these bright bright pants did the job nicely. What do you think?

Weekday update #45: A Room With A View

A guest! J walked in on us taking photos and graciously accepted our invite to appear on this humble little blog. I'll see if I can get her to say a few words about her cute little jacket. Doesn't she just have the best smile?

Remember the whole cherry thing started by Carrie Bradshaw quite some years ago? Well, this Marc Jacobs jacket goes back that far. I'd say that it's the first real designer piece I own. Since then, I have had the great fortunate of having friends in fashion who are able to find some incredible deals for me overseas, but this one is what started it all.

Today, dear gigi helped me solve a big problem I've always had and hated. Having size 4 feet means it's almost impossible to find shoes that fit perfectly. Often, either the heels or the toes slide a little. I love this pair of Michael Kors platform (another great deal) that make me feel almost normal height, unfortunately the heel part is just a little wider than my foot so it finds a way to pop out some times. Ever the rescuer, gigi went downstairs to the cobbler and came back with not one, not two, but three possible remedies. There were some toe pads, which just made the front too tight, some whole foot cushions, which made the shoes too shallow, and some heel grip, which were exactly, I mean exactly what I needed! Now the platforms stay put all the time! I must get some more of this stuff for future use!

Well, we're moving on up! I decided it was high time we made good use of C's space. And boy, will we. These shots look more lively than the plain ole' wall we've been using. Oh, honey, ya'll ain't seen nothing yet. I'm thinking perhaps a circular throw rug in the corner and various backdrops for our everchanging fashion moods. I figure, why not. Some call it perfectionism, some call it obsessive compulsive disorder. Me, I see it like this: 'any job worth doing is worth doing well.' I don't want people to stop coming to our blog because they know what to expect day in and day out. My bf of 7 years still can't figure me out. Don't get me wrong, I'm a straight up creature of habit when it comes to certain things. I always pay my bills on the same day of the month, every month! I always walk my dog the same route, every day. Stuff like that. But when it comes to matters of style, WATCH OUT! C & I are like a box of chocolates, you never know whatcha' gonna get! ^_^

I know C will be humble and say, 'oh, I do the same thing blah, blah, blah.' But she does not. Perhaps she has her own Pythagorean theorem when it comes to jacket and dress combinations (whether she knows it or not!). But it's how well she places her jacket/dress combo that makes it always fresh and new. In my opinion, she's more than just a jacket and dress type of girl. And she knows she does more than that too, she just loves being modest. So that's fine for her, I accept her modesty. But that doesn't mean I can't sing her praises. (insert a high soprano "Ahhh..." - here!) ^_^

Quickly, before I sign off for the week, I'd like to give a shout out to Limi Feu! The ensemble above is inspired by her Fall 2009RTW collection.

(Victoria's Secret cashmere wrap sweater; American Apparel t-shirt; Linea Pelle waistbelt; thrifted jeans; Issac Mizrahi boots)

Weekday update #43: I'm Going on Safari

For me, today is all about these gold chains that you can't see so well unless you click to enlarge the photo (as gigi pointed out, we are still trying to figure out her very awesome new camera). My husband and I got the heavy gold stuff as a part of a traditional Chinese wedding set. You should have seen his face when he opened the box. I feared for the one who would ask him to wear his. Luckily, no one did. Since, for luck reasons, we can't sell the gold for money :), I thought I'd work it into my wardrobe. What do you think? They sort of go with this otherwise low key outfit?

So as I walk into C's office today holding a rather large camera bag, she says, "ooh, you look like you're going on safari!" I had to laugh. It was funny.

Today is also warm, but tomorrow will be cold and rainy. I thought why not wear something fun, yet functional. I commented to C that this dress came from Brooks Bros. She says that when she thinks of Brooks Bros., this type of dress doesn't come to mind. I must agree. BB, at one time, did not conjure up anything fashionable for me either, unless you're a man that is. But as I watch store after store dwindle in our area of town, my lunch hour shopping has dropped drastically. BB would be the last place I would have thought to meander through, yet out of sheer desperation to spend a dollar (I'm so bloody American, it's sad), I did. And I'm glad I did. I learned something about BB that I've already known about other high end department stores, and that's when they have a sale, they have a sale! I learned to take those stuffy-looking pieces and make them my own. Isn't that what style is all about anyway? No matter who or what it is, you really can't judge a book by its cover!

(Brooks Bros. dress; Victoria's Secret hosiery; Ellen Tracy socks; Cole Haan booties)

Weekday update #42: 80 degrees today!

Okay, better camera, but still need to figure the darn thing out. Everything in life requires work, I mean everything. Anyhow, my shots look nice, thanks to C. I totally jacked hers up. But remember, I'm new to this whole blogger world so you've just got to be a little understanding. As I practice, the shots will get better and better. So I'll stop obsessing now and talk fashion. Let's see, it's 80 degrees today and I thought linen was the order of the day. It's one of those items you either love or hate. Especially if you have a wrinkle phobia. If you do, don't wear linen. It took me about a month or more to get over the wrinkles. Now, I see it like I see my hairstyles. My attitude now is more so, "am I bothered!"

I know talking about wrinkles, sounds petty, but you'd be surprised at how this bothers some people. I work with a woman, not C, though her initial is C also! And she actually wears a different outfit to drive to work in so that her linen won't get wrinkled by the seat belt. This makes no sense to me, because at some point she will have to sit down. But it makes sense to her, so there you have it.

(Newport News linen skirt suit; Zara sleeveless turtleneck; Michael Kors belt; Stuart Weitzman sandals)

close up of Kors belt

What can I say, I am all about lace this season. And this one had me at first glace. I have a feeling that we will have a long and beautiful relationship for a long long time!

Love is most definitely in the details.

Weekday update #41: Geisha Sandal

Again, Gigi's comment below provides such a poetic description of what I would otherwise call my short-legged shuffle. :) The truth is, when one is as vertically challenged as I, one learns very early on to work with high heels. These shoes are actually amazingly comfortable despite their look. The sole is padded and decorated with a Japanese motif. Maybe that's where Gigi got the geisha idea. There is another element of this outfit that is Japanese though. The shirt component here is actually a dress with a shinny silk skirt that I bought when I passed through Japan a few years ago. This morning, I tucked the dress bottom into the skirt you see here to avoid looking too done up for work. The double layer worked very well to keep me warm in the slightly cool morning air.

Okay, so I'm getting a better camera tomorrow. Actually, I already have it, but don't really know how to work it so I'm taking pictures of my dog for the moment to get it just right. At some point, I'll deck him out in outfits too. I'm sure he'll be thrilled. HA! Anyhow, I titled today's post "geisha sandal" because as C moves around the office, her walk is with very tiny, yet swift steps. Like a geisha! She has on cool but rather intimidating mules. The vamp is a braided fabric strap and the wedge heel appears to be lucite with a hollow middle. She's brave, I would so fall in that shoe. But my reasoning of bringing up the camera was to mention that I really want to capture the details of C's outfits on this blog, as they are AMAZING. I also wanted to post her other pic, just because the shoe detail was much better, but now that I have a newer camera, there will plenty of time for that. Baby steps.

(Diane Von Furstenberg skirt suit; BCBG tank; vintage belt; Victoria's Secret hosiery; Stuart Weitzman leopard platform sandal)

Weekday update #40: Spring Is Around The Corner

I was going to wear an orange dress today in honor of C, but then saw a photo of some new "IT" girl in jacket and jeans, pumping gas. Since it's still a tad cool, just a tad though, I opted for the "IT" girl pumping gas look, instead. I can wear orange on Monday.

(Calvin Klein jacket; Banana Republic t-shirt; thrifted jeans; Spanx hosiery, Stuart Weitzman oxford heels)

I have a pair of black jeans that gigi loves and comment on every time I wear it. It's one of the few pairs of jeans that I can tolerate because it stretches and doesn't feel tight around the thighs. But it's impossible to wear it under thinner dresses, which is the way I prefer to wear my jeans, because all the details at the waist, such as pockets and belt loops, show awkwardly through the dress material, forming weird shapes. Finally, I've found a solution, Japanese jean leggings, the perfect child that inherited the best of both contributing parents. The waist stretches and fits smoothly like a pair of leggings and the leg portion has the weight and texture of a pair of jeans. Best of all, the length is just right for my height. Gigi didn't even notice that this was not the same pair of jeans she saw before.

Weekday update #39: The Sista' and the Traveling Leather Jacket

This morning, my last minute husband informed me that we'd be meeting some "big time interior design" clients of his for dinner. Whatever that means, they sounded like very interesting and artsy people. So at the last minute, I had to put together something that would take me from the office to dinner and not look too boring. Luckily, the weather has warmed up to a spring-like 65 degrees. Yeah! That opened the door to those sleeveless dresses I have been waiting to wear. This particular one has a shiny black silk bodice with a large bow, which is connected to the chiffon skirt that looks like a separate piece. Being a fairly lazy dresser, I am all for two-in-one constructions. Fearing being cold in the office and looking too simple, I decided that an extra layer would be a good idea and, what do you know, this lace vest was hanging right next to the dress. Just the right size to fit snugly over the dress and let the bow come through the collar. Another serendipity moment? I think so.

Upon C's suggestion, I decided to tell the real story behind this jacket. Enjoy!...

I bought this jacket in 1997 for $60. I remember it well, as this jacket has been with me through some good and bad times. Back then, there was a vintage boutique in my neighborhood called "The Dressing Room." I loved to walk past the shop just to see their display windows. The woman who owned the shop did a lovely job of making what was once considered old, look so new. While attempting to view her display window, there was this damn ladder in the background impeding my view, thus forcing me to go inside to have a better look around. The ladder belonged to the handy-man that was fixing a busted shelf over the register. After squeezing around his poorly positioned ladder, I accidentally knocked down a leather jacket. I reached to retrieve it and while putting it on the hanger, noticed it was really awesome looking. I walked over to the wall mirror and tried it on. As soon as I placed my left arm inside, I knew it was too small. But not by much. I was going to try it on anyway, all the while praying that the handy-man didn't see me fighting to squeeze my fat arse in and out of this damn jacket! Once I was free, I walked it to the counter where a pretty brunette (the store's co-owner) rang me up and told me that I had gotten myself one fine piece!

I took it home and ran into the house to show my husband my find. While trying to explain why I bought the jacket, he barked, "you mean to tell me you spent $60 on that old arse jacket?! You can't even fit it, you're too fat. I could have used that money at the Falcons game! You do stupid sh&! sometimes." Let's back up shall we...

I've read and seen countless stories regarding domestic abuse. Countless. But no one ever told me about the horrors of emotional abuse. Not ever. In 1996, I married an emotionally & mentally abusive man. That relationship damn near took the life out of me. I will spare you the details as they are not necessary to my point, which I will get to in a moment, I promise. Now, moving back to that conversation with the EX, I said, "Whatever, you have no idea what you're taking about. I will wear this jacket, one day..."

Fast forward if you will to 2001. I am officially 275 lbs. lighter (250 of those lbs. being HIS!) and headed to the local coffee shop one brisk Sunday morning decked out in my $60 vintage leather jacket, and looking lovely as hell if you ask me! ^_^ While ordering a biscotti and a coffee, a beautiful blonde (clutching a stroller containing her doppelganger) taps me on my shoulder and says, "excuse me, but did you buy that jacket at The Dressing Room?" I was stunned. "Yes I did, but that was some years ago." I said. "Oh, about 5 or so." She said, while directing her eyes toward the stroller. "You see, that was my jacket and I absolutely loved it. I didn't want to get rid of it, but after I had her, I knew I would never get back down, so I put it in the shop. Me and a friend owned that shop together, but I sold out a few years ago. I'm glad to see it went to a good home, you wear it well." "Thanks!!!" I said, and went about my day. Still relishing in the fact that my dumb-bum ex husband didn't know what the hell he was talking about.

This is the last time I'll have you scroll forward the tape, I promise! But wind on forward to 2004. My current bf and I (already 2 years into our relationship, mind you) were headed out to a Harry Connick, Jr. concert. On that moderately chilly night, I donned my trusty leather jacket. As I walked into the living room, my bf says, "HEY! I know that jacket." I'm like, "no you don't, I got this thing years ago, long before I met you." "That jacket was in my ex-girlfriend's shop, The Dressing Room." I couldn't believe it. He did know this jacket. He went on to say, "how did you get it, cause I was there when this homely, older black lady bought it. It was kinda funny, cause she didn't know I was watching her from my ladder trying to squeeze into it!" "That was YOU on that ladder, you've got to be kidding me! I'll have you know, that 'so-called' homely, older black lady was ME, dufus!" He cocked his head to the side, looked me up and down and said, "wow." Then, after another short pause, "WOW!"

(vintage leather jacket; Brooks Bros. button down; Lulu Guinness studded scarf; Victoria's Secret - Body by Victoria pants; Michael Kors pumps)