Madewell: Fall 2013 Lookbook

Confession: I work in a clothing store but I consistently find myself stumped when it comes to getting dressed in the morning. I'm not afraid to admit I'm a fickle creature, especially when it comes to clothing. My affections wane and ebb like the waters of a stormy sea and are often quelled, if only temporarily, by Madewell's seasonal lookbook. I have fallen right into their perfectly styled marketing trap.

What drew me so much to these looks, I think, is how many of these pieces I already own. A leather skirt, blue checked button-up, bright coat, black ankle boots, warm-hued a-line skirt, striped shirt, motorcycle jacket and graphic tees already live in my crowded closet space. Next on my list is a pair of coated skinny denim, a marled maxi skirt, a bomber jacket and that Shimmerweave tee dress, the only thing I know I won't be able to find a cheaper version of in H&M.

Ethereality

Yelena Yemchuk, who is fast becoming my favorite fashion photographer, collaborated once again with stylist Leith Clark to shoot Kirsten Dunst for the February issue of Vogua Italia. You can also see an equally gorgeous video from the photoshoot over here.

images via FashionGoneRogue

Photo Diary: Miami

Remember when I took a super short trip down to Florida...back in January? Over a month later I've finally manged to go through some of the photos I took. The sporadic spring-like days we've been experiencing here reminded me of how bizarre it felt to lay on the beach in the sun on a mid-winter afternoon. I also discovered that my winter wardrobe is essentially my summer wardrobe with tights and proved to be quite the convenience when travelling. I most certainly am not a winter person, so clearly my decision to stay on the East Coast was not properly thought through.

My good friend Marylyn was my tour guide for the weekend! She led us over the an arts fair that was taking place on her university campus that weekend.

Apparently the artist didn't consider these paintings to be photo-realistic, even though I would like to differ. They're absolutely brilliant.

This puts our innumerable mediocre cheesesteak trucks to shame.

The ducks waddling around campus were not the least bit shy. Apparently manatees are quite the socialites as well, and every so often they're apt to find their way into the canals that run through campus!

Yes, they do exist.

Art Deco

Louise Pederson by Signe Vilstrup for Elle Denmark (via FashionGoneRogue)

For the latest project in my fashion presentation techniques class we were asked to choose a theme from which we would build a coordinating color scheme, fabrics, designs, and the likes. But before I could get a word in edgewise, the art deco theme was called for, pulled out from under me. Had I managed to speak up, my mood board would have been covered in Prada prints and chunky architectural jewelry. 

The Shirt Dress

DKNY

T by Alexander Wang

Opening Ceremony

In my recent quest to build a practical yet stylish closet (with a bit of quirkiness), I've found myself searching endlessly for the just the right shirt dress. This specific silhouette embodies the timelessness of an men's inspired oxford, often with buttons down the front and a collar. My favorite ones happen to have a more feminine take; they often come in at the waist, have a fuller skirt, and boast an interesting print or detail. One such detail I'm finding myself drawn to is a contrasting collar. Cutting the collar off of an old shirt sounds easy enough, so I'm itching to go on a thrifting trip to see what I can find.

What Inspires: Sunday, December 25

 1, 2, 3, 4

Christmas lights. On everything.

Merry Christmas!

DIY Inspiration

A fringe necklace seems like a perfectly simple DIY. This tutorial demonstrates exactly how I would have done it!

(via The Sartorialist)

I've been busy with midterm projects, but as soon as I get the chance next week I'll be sure to pick up some suede (or faux suede) to get my elbow pad projects started.

This beaded collar from Free People is stunning, isn't it? Absolutely out of my price range, yes, but I'm confident I could find some way to recreate it.

Urban Outfitters

A brightly colored thrift store skirt would be the perfect candidate for an asymmetrical hem DIY. What I like most about these skirts is that you can wear them any which way, with the shorter hem in the front or off to the side.

I've never been more excited for Thanksgiving break. Some time off from school and a couple creative projects is just what I need. I know for a fact I'll be working on Black Friday (eep!), so at least I know it will be a productive break. I hope everyone else's holiday goes just as well!

Proenza Schouler Fall 2011

Proenza Schouler Fall 2011 campaign

images via FashionGoneRogue

The Free & Roaring '20's

Photos by David Bellemere via FashionGoneRogue

Free People has released a sneak peek at their "Through the Decades" catalog, a small portion of which is dedicated to the roaring 1920's. One word can sufficiently describe this shoot: perfect. If I was forced to delve deeper, I'd call it bohemian meets Midnight in Paris. Beyond its impeccable styling, the lighting and editing is absolutely inspiring. 

What Inspires: Tuesday, October 18

(via The Sartorialist)

(via Peach, Plum, Pear)

(via Danny Rose)

(via Hanneli Mustaparta)

(via)

Elbow patches. On everything.

Good Morning Mugs

Hand painted ceramic mugs decorated with the most adorable silhouettes. I'm wondering if they're for sale, because I'd love to sip my morning coffee out of that bicycle mug.

*images via goodmorningmugs.tumblr.com

Madewell Fall 2011 Lookbook

I'm totally feeling this Madewell lookbook. Everything, from the footwear to the bags, the way the belts are tied and how the socks are scrunched. Even the models have the hair I wish could have with perfectly messed up waves. What I like even more about these looks is that I could easily recreate them with what I already have in my closet.