The Wardrobe Diaries

Vintage Kimono

2012-02-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

Alright, so this isn't one of my most sensible outfits for a weekday breakfast meeting but when have you ever known me to exercise common sense when it comes to fashion? I found this beautiful kimono in a vintage shop back in the UK years ago and the truth is I hardly ever wear it. I love the color and the delicate pattern that's painted along the bottom but how often in life is there reason to throw on a kimono? Clearly I have not been creative enough. This morning I had an overwhelming urge to give it the attention it deserves so I got all boho and paired it with some flares and this amazing vintage metal belt.

Kimono, Belt & Bag : Vintage
Jeans : H&M
Shoes : GoJane
Tank : Urban Outfitters

BCBG Dress

2011-12-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

I know I've been missing in action for quite some time now but I've been a busy girl. I got a new job as the Curator of Vibes and Happenings at the new Saguaro hotel here in AZ! So for the past month or so I've been busy styling rooms, designing music playlists and throwing events. As you can tell it's right up my alley and I have the pleasure of working for some awesome companies and partnering with community movers and shakers. So, all my AZ readers, consider this an extended invitation to come and check us out! We have 2 restaurants by Iron Chef Jose Garces (an insanely cool dude), gorgeous rooms and the prettiest pool in Scottsdale. You can usually find me at the community table in the lobby so make sure you say hi!

Another perk to the job is that there's always a reason to dress up (hey, gotta look good so the surroundings don't upstage me). This BCBG dress appealed to my current lust for all things modern and unexpected. I love the asymmetry, the color blocks and the vintage belt that throws the whole thing a bit out of whack.

Photos by Courtney

Dress : BCBG
Shoes : Go Jane
Jewelry : Vintage

Portlandia Party

2011-10-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

My sister and I are incredibly close, we're partners in crime, roomies and best friends. Last week she moved to Portland. I had to send her off in style so I threw a little going away bash for her and couldn't resist the opportunity to mock the Portland clichés with a Portlandia themed party. Everyone had to wear plaid.

Beard banner and a woodland centerpiece. I served Shepherd's Pie and made cupcakes with birds on top.

Put a bird on it!

Bicycle stamps on the plates.

The cocktail recipe and mis-matched vintage glasses for Portland Punch.

Guests wore beards, they ate, drank and made merry and then they beat the crap our of a pinata (not very Portland but fun all the same).

Bye Dannie!

Thanks to Amy for helping me with all the crafts and for taking these photos.

Red Tube Skirt

2011-10-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

I've been cheating on my mini skirts with this stretchy piece of red fabric. The color and cling make it feel just as sexy as my thigh baring versions. I'm a below-the-knee convert (and apparently capable of minimalism).

Skirt : Ann Taylor
T-shirt & Cuff : Urban Outfitters
Shoes : Zara
Ring : Vintage

Miscellaneous

2011-10-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

A few house keeping items.

I've been busy organizing the annual ACI Nouveau fundraiser, Phoenix readers should come out and support the amazing fashion collection at Phoenix Art Museum, I'd love to see you there.

It's finally cool enough to wear jeans. (H&M jeans, Marc Jacobs top, Zara platforms, Banana Republic earrings, Urban Outfitters cuff, Topshop ring).

I got some new shoes. (BCBG).

Art & Soul

2011-10-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

I have an unbalanced, evening wear heavy wardrobe, and as much as I like to think of myself as some Bianca Jagger-like socialite, I don't honestly get to wear it as much as I'd like. I'm always looking for ways to make these sheer/glittery/long/elegant pieces less, well, sheer/glittery/long/elegant. This slip of a disco dress is such a pretty color and I love the way it catches the breeze, but it's so barely there that I can only wear it for very close friends, if you get my drift. So I layered it with a mini jersey dress and a military vest and made it day wear. Of course the damn mini dress kept riding up and I'm pretty sure I flashed the security guard in the parking lot while trying to adjust it, glamour eludes me yet again.

Dress : Vintage
Vest : Old Navy
Belt & Mini Dress : H&M
Booties : Forever 21
Bracelet : Urban Outfitters

This evening I'm off to Chaos Theory, an art show that my sister has a piece in, then I'll be shaking my arse around at the new Motown & Stax night at Cresent Ballroom, see you there?

Lana Del Ray

2011-10-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

Obsessed with this girl at the moment, I've been listening to Video Games and Blue Jeans on repeat for the last 3 weeks.

Bandage Skirt

2011-10-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

I popped in to one of my favorite vintage stores, Butter Toast, on Friday with an about-to-expire groupon burning a hole in my pocket. I found this spanx like skirt (god the 80's were unforgiving) and soft felt fedora and left a happy lady.

The rest of the weekend was spent crafting beards and bird banners and shooting a campaign for a new jewelry line (all of which I will divulge in good time).

Skirt & Hat : Butter Toast
Top : Final Touch
Boots : Old Navy
Necklaces : Rumble & Spur

Fall Wardrobe Inspiration

2011-09-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

This editorial is everything I love about fall dressing; glamour, rich colors, elaborate pattern mixing, layering and accessorizing to the hilt.

Photos by Yossi Michaeli for 125 Magazine via Fashion Gone Rogue.

Vintage Maxi Dress & 20 Lounge

2011-09-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

I found this beautiful silk dress at Wasteland when i was in San Francisco earlier this summer. The slits are indecently high and it's light as a feather. I've already worn it my my best gal's birthday party and restaurant week with the girls.

In other news, I stopped by chic nail spot 20 Lounge to get my nails done last week. I went for this obscene yellow color and it's the perfect pop of color with a simple outfit like this. 20 Lounge is super stylish but the best bit is the bubbly they serve with their manicures and pedicures (is there anything that isn't made better by adding booze?).

Mac & Cheese

2011-09-26T17:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday night craving for mac and cheese.

I make a béchamel sauce, then add some Boursin, sharp cheddar and jack until I reach my desired cheesiness. Top with a bit more cheese, some sliced tomatoes and a little basil. Bake until bubbly and serve with peas.

Color Blocking

2011-09-23T16:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wear color (except us Brits spell it colour).

Shirt & Shoes : Forever21
Shorts : Zara
Necklace : Ann Taylor
Bracelet : Vintage

Black Jumper

2011-09-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

This romper is so simple it makes a great blank canvas to show off some accessories. It does not however make for a great bathroom experience. I can't say I'm a fan of the level of nakedness in which I find myself in public bathrooms after the awkward shimmy that is required to get in and out of the damn thing. Needless to say I drink less than usual when wearing it.
In other news I had a marvelous weekend styling a shoot and a personal client, eating some incredible tacos and attending the opening of the new Giorgio di Sant' Angelo exhibit at Phoenix Art Museum. It's an incredible show and I found myself lusting after every piece.

Romper : Forever21
Boots : Old Navy
Necklaces : Rumble & Spur
Bracelets : Mix of H&M, BCBG and F21

Vintage Tunic

2011-09-15T17:16:00.000-07:00

My excuse for the inappropriateness of this hemline at work is that I had to dress for the Bon Iver/Fleet Foxes show that I'll be attending later, a fashion calling that far outweighs the conventional office attire guidelines. The fight between decency and the hem's insatiable need to ride up was won by no-one, instead I just walked around the office tugging insistently at my outfit which I'm sure made me look like a mad woman. All will be redeemed later when I'm amongst the cool kids and ridiculous amounts of thigh are de rigueur.

P.S. Man's arse placement in background was beyond my control.

Tunic & Rings : Vintage by Misty
Dress (underneath) : H&M
Boots : Topshop
Necklaces : Rustle & Spur

Missoni Silk Pants

2011-09-14T17:52:00.000-07:00

I'm ashamed to admit it, but I bought into the consumer feeding frenzy that was the Missoni for Target launch yesterday. I blame the hysteria of my girlfriends and the rather good marketing campaign, but in all honesty I'm just a sucker for fancy Italian bedding. You see, I went with the sole purpose of securing some chic zig zag sheets (which they didn't have) and enjoying a little breakfast date with my friend Amy. Instead I found myself emptying my wallet on a pile of unnecessary patterned objects and I'm not proud of it. So I'll be schlepping a bag full back to Target to ease my buyers remorse. These pants have survived the cull, they're actually pajama pants but I thought they bore a close resemblance to those silky Céline pants (but with a Missoni twist).

Pants : Missoni for Target
Shirt : H&M
Bracelets : mish-mash of old and H&M

Urban Madness

2011-09-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

Urban Outfitters used to be the mecca of my fashion sensibilities. I'd pour over the catalogue pages of cute but quirky girls in all their indie rock glory. 90% of my wardrobe used to be Urban goodness and a perfect Saturday would always include a trip to ye olde Outfitters. But as the years have passed (not that many of them) and I've aged (hardly at all, you could even say backwards) the UO look has become less and less desirable to me. Don't get me wrong, I still listen to indie rock and dress on the quirkier side of the fashion spectrum, but when I received the most recent Urban catalogue in the mail I was appalled. Is this really what they're pimping to us? Drab, unflattering, 90's flashback that even my grungiest friends wouldn't wear? Please someone give that model a brush and some blush.
Now, I pride myself on my open mindedness when it comes to alternative fashion. I cherish an original mind, a woman who isn't afraid to stand out from the crowd and I never knock a gal who's willing to play with her style, but no-one should be telling those impressionable teenage girls to dress like this. Please, stop the madness.

Chiffon Maxi Skirt

2011-09-09T15:19:00.000-07:00

I call this skirt the Pollock (2 guesses why). Tiny pleats give it so much volume when I walk and it's light as a feather. I wore it to Fashion Night Out where it was a huge hit. It was not a huge hit however at the office, where I managed to embarrass myself by getting it tangled in the wheels of my desk chair. Damn fashion hazards.

Skirt : Anthropologie
T-shirt : old
Cuff : Vintage
Bracelets : Forever21
Ring : Vintage by Misty

MIA and FNO

2011-09-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

I know I've been missing in action for the better part of August, I'm terribly sorry but I've been living the good life:

Sipping wine in Sonoma

(old Levis, F21 top and oxfords)

Beach weddings in San Francisco

(H&M leather jacket over maxi dress)

Cooking giant tapas feasts in San Clemente

(top: fennel, orange and sardine salad. Middle: patatas bravas, garlic and tomato rubbed toast, manchego with sherry syrup, shrimp in chipotle butter, crab stuffed pepperdews, melon and serrano. Bottom: fig and almond custard tart)

I'll make it up to you in September, starting out with a little Fashion Night Out fun... I'll be at Neiman Marcus tomorrow night for all sorts of fashion related fun including food by Modern Steak, a Fall fashion show at 6pm, DJ's and mini makeovers. I'll be at the Arizona Costume Institute table from 6-8pm.

Backless Maxi

2011-08-24T17:24:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the absence, I've been galavanting around wine country and San Francisco for the past week (photos to come).
In a rare moment of minimalism I decided to give this dress the credit it was due and kept the accessories to a minimum. It's amazing how a simple piece of jersey can make me feel so sexy, it hugs all the right places and shows exactly the right amount of skin.

Dress : Club Monaco
Earrings : Gift

Summer Salads

2011-08-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

I love making lots of different salads to keep around for noshing and grazing.
This is a quinoa salad I made with some roasted butternut squash, goat cheese, thyme and green onion in a sherry vinaigrette, a beet salad with a cumin vinaigrette and a chicken salad with apples and walnuts in a mayo and lemon dressing.

I've also been rocking this sheer, drapey, burgundy beauty quite a bit recently.

Dress : H&M
Shoes : Forever21
Cuff : Max & Chloe

Birthday Girl

2011-08-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was my birthday and, as usual, I milked it for all it was worth. Spa and pool time with the girls followed by a night of revelry at Mabels on Main where there were cocktails named after me, where my friends danced and made merry and where I (along with DJ's Funkfinger, Kooky and Rolls Royce) spun a ton of vinyl. It was perfect.

You've seen this dress before in a slightly longer incarnation (and the tiara was forced on me by Megan, who you can't say no to, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't make me feel like a birthday girl).

Dress : H&M
Belt : Vintage
Cuff : Max & Chloe
Shoes : Forever21

Missoni Skirt

2011-07-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

I've had this Missoni skirt for about 8 years. I found it in a Goodwill for $5 back when the thrift store gods used to smile upon me, now they just give me half arsed smirk and send me the odd silk blouse. As loathe as I am to admit it, I've lost my patience with thrifting. I know, it's blasphemy from a vintage lover such as myself, but the trawl is much less exciting these days, I've left empty handed too many times.
On a perkier note though, I used to wear this skirt as a strapless dress because it was so long, but with the glad return of the uber-maxi I decided to embrace it's length and rock it with my fringe vest for a completely Woodstock/Rachel Zoe vibe.

Vest : Vintage by Misty
Tank & Belt : H&M
Skirt : Vintage
Cuff : Max & Chloe

San Clemente

2011-07-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

A little visual diary of my week at the beach.

As you can see there was much eating and drinking. What you don't see, the yoga classes, the reading, the lying on the beach and the walks along the sea.
From top: San Clemente pier, radishes at the farmers market, the most unusual plant pot I've ever seen, morning ritual, sea bass and shrimp stew with cranberry beans and chili crema, drinks on the pier, tandoori ono with riata and yellow tomatoes, my gorgeous sis, the view, cocktail hour mojitos, chicken tacos with pickled onions, radishes and chipotle crema, Dani, sauvignon blanc with a view, fresh shrimp, I did a lot of this, spaghetti carbonara with pea shoots.

Beach Bound

2011-07-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

Photos by Markus Zeigler for Elle Mexico

I'm off to the sunny California shores for a little r and r. I intend on doing as little as possible so posting will be sparse, but be sure to follow me on twitter if you want to hear me gloat about the delicious food I'm cooking or the degree of sunburn I'll be nursing.

Sequins For Day

2011-07-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

I have a very dear friend who believes passionately and completely in sequins for day. Actually she believes in sequins for any time of day or night, any occasion, anywhere. I've always been a little weary of sequins, they teeter on the verge of tacky all too often for my taste and, sadly, I've only been impressed with the very expensive varieties (think Ralph Lauren's gold sequin harem pants). So I was shocked when I caught a glimpse of this paisley and sequin jacket at Forever 21 last weekend.... it didn't look cheap at all and the silk and sequin combination had a distinctly bohemian vibe that I love. So what d'ya know, I'm moving over to the shiny side.

Zucchini Fritters

2011-07-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

My girlfriend Shauna has turned into quite the gardener and last time I was at her house she sent me off with bags of giant vegetables. Faced with a foot long squash and an outdoor temperature that deemed ratatouille an unattractive option, I got creative.

I grated the zucchini (about 10 of the regular size) and drained off any water. I mixed in 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons flour, a teaspoon of cayenne and a little fresh thyme. I fried the fritters in hot oil until they were golden and the eggs set. I drizzled a little lemon and garlic aioli over them and topped them off with a fresh caprese salad (heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, salt, pepper and good olive oil).

Bikini

2011-07-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Pool hopping for the long weekend means I've basically been living in this Zimmermann bikini.
Photos by Amy King

Bikini : Zimmermann
Hat : Urban Outfitters
Shades : H&M
Rings : Vintage

This Weekend

2011-07-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

You can find me by the pool.

Photos by Koray Birand for Harper's Bazaar Turkey.

Tribal Shorts

2011-06-30T17:03:00.000-07:00

Tribal Shorts : Lulu's
Top : H&M
Wedges : Chloe
Necklace : Charlotte Russe

Risotto with Clams and Fennel

2011-06-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

There are only a few ways to make it through the Arizona summer. One of those involves getting the hell out of Arizona, which I'll be doing in July. Until then, my method of choice is to just stay home and cook something that reminds me of the beach.

Sauté a large shallot, 2 garlic cloves, a small fennel bulb and s+p in butter and olive oil until soft. Add 12 oz of arborio rice and continue to sauté until the edge of the rice is translucent (about 3 minutes). Add a cup of dry white wine and reduce. Gradually add 4 cups of fish stock a little at a time, letting the rice absorb the stock. When the rice is nice and al dente, add fresh clams, peas and zest from a lemon, cover and let steam until the clams are open and cooked. Stir in handfuls of tarragon and fennel fronds, a good squeeze of lemon juice, a tablespoon of creme fraiche and parmesan if desired. Taste for seasoning. Serve drizzled with good olive oil and a chilled glass of wine.

Man Shirt

2011-06-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I actually make an effort to look appropriate at work. The hem line decidedly below the knee, the shirt reasonably buttoned. Although I don't look particularly happy about it.

Shirt : Stolen from a boy
Skirt & Clutch : Vintage
Belt : H&M
Shoes : Forever21

Shoots and Meals

2011-06-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

The two main components of my life, photos shoots and meals. I'm not complaining, quite the opposite in fact. I love mulling over the day's shoot ideas while I'm sipping my morning coffee, and I'm inevitably planning my next meal while I'm styling props or location scouting.

One of the simplest and tastiest breakfasts; broiled tomatoes until they're nice and charred, piled on toast covered with lashings of butter, and topped off with a smidge of HP sauce.

I really can't complain about my job when I'm on locations like this (photo by Michael McNamara)

Sake steamed halibut and summer squash with quinoa and a cucumber and jalapeno salad. Made with veggies from Shauna's garden.

(I steam the fish and squash in a foil packet in the oven with a little sesame oil, a splash of good soy, some sake and ginger. The cucumber and jalapeno is in a rice vinegar and agave dressing with plenty of fresh cilantro).

Wide Leg Trousers

2011-06-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

The reaction to these trousers today has been strong and diverse, ranging from "did you steal those from Annie Hall?" to "all the girls here want your pants". I have to give kudos to the female staff at The Arrogant Butcher for that last comment, they clearly know a good pair of pants when they see them.

Trousers : Rachel Roy
Tank : Gap
Cuff : Max & Chloe
Necklace & Bracelet : Vintage
Sunglasses : Betsy Johnson

Chicken Tacos

2011-06-10T15:56:00.000-07:00

Here's a little something for the weekend.

Cover chicken breast in dry rub of salt, cayenne pepper, cumin seed, coriander seed and a little sugar. Grill until you have a nice char on the outside but it's moist inside, let rest.
In the meantime, heat some vinegar sugar and salt (I add a little thyme and bay leaf) until the sugar has dissolved. Add some sliced red onions, jalapeno and carrots and let sit.
Grill some corn tortillas, top with chicken, pickled salad and drizzle with some lime creme fraiche.

Add to that a little drinky that my sister made and you have a great start to the weekend: muddle lots of mint and cucumber, strain into a shaker, add ice, lime juice and tequila to taste. Shake and serve with cucumber slices and mint to garnish. Feel free to add a splash of french lemonade if you need to make them less 'adult'.

Fringe Vest

2011-06-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

I picked up this perfect fringe vest at my pal Misty's beautiful new shop (along with a gorgeous black and gold gown that is waiting patiently for an occasion worthy of it's glamour). Misty has impeccable taste and the store is packed with designer and unusual vintage pieces. On top of that she's decked out the space with whimsical furniture and quirky curiosity pieces, I want to steal it all along with an Oscar de la Renta peasant dress that I'll be saving for forever.

The dinner party went off without a hitch but I didn't manage to get a photo of the trout as promised (the sun had long gone down and there wasn't enough light, hey I'm European, we eat late). But I can tempt you with a little cocktail I made for the night (we drink early), 1 part bourbon (I like Bulleit), 2 parts watermelon juice, a good squeeze of lime and lots of bruised basil to garnish.

Slips and Sleeves

2011-06-03T14:15:00.000-07:00

I slung this sheer drape top on over a slip in another attempt at work appropriateness... not really sure what I was hoping to achieve as the whole thing was still pretty see-through. I took solace in the fact that my sleeves caught the wind when I walked and made me feel terribly girly.
It appears to be the weekend again... off to a tranny show tonight then I'm cooking dinner for the girls tomorrow (pics of pancetta wrapped trout to come on Monday).

Slip : Forever21
Top : Divas
Rings : Vintage
Boots : Topshop

Black Lace Shorts

2011-06-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

I feel all kinds of good after the long weekend; dinner and gossip on the patio with the girls, pilates, the best massage of my life for $30, drinks at the Windsor followed by a girly trip to see, well, other girlies who wear less than we do, lying in the sun listening to Gil Scott-Heron (RIP) at the Valley Ho pool party, grilled lamb and braised fennel by the lake, vintage cocktails with my favorite bartenders at Mables, watching the Swansea game with Dad (they won) and a coffee date that turned into dinner that turned into 7 hours later. And on top of all of that I got to have brunch with Hamish Bowles! What a charming fellow. We discussed art, travel, fashion and the health benefits of a good glass of champagne.

Top & Shorts : Divas
Shoes & Necklace : Forever21
Cuff : Vintage

Kitchen Inspiration

2011-05-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

A couple of the dishes I've been rustling up in the kitchen this week....

Inspired by a photo shoot I did yesterday I went home and made some tapas for my friends; fresh anchovies in lemon, toasted bread smeared with garlic and tomatoes and these piquillo peppers stuffed with crab (lump crab meat with parsley, tarragon, mint, shallot, red chile, créme fraîche, lemon juice, s+p).

I saw this Sicilian halibut recipe during one of my regular cooking channel marathons and couldn't resist trying it.

An easy weeknight supper using up lots of veggies from the farmers market; pasta with roasted onions, carrots, beets, peppers, garlic and thyme stirred into a thick tomato sauce with some anchovies, red chile and olives.

Pink Kimono

2011-05-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

Low and behold, the world continued to turn and my sister's birthday weekend went off without a hitch. The sangria was delish (white wine, brandy, passion fruit nectar, lemon and basil simple syrup, peaches and basil to garnish), the chili was spicy (a mix of dry and fresh chilies with a little molasses to sweeten), we shopped, saw Bridesmaids (over the top but hilarious), did a spa day at the Montelucia (heaven) and had an amazing meal at Soi 4 with the family.

Tomorrow night I am heading to Phoenix Art Museum for a lecture by european Vogue editor at large, Hamish Bowles. He'll be speaking on Balenciaga and I can't wait. He's one dapper dandy and I've always admired his style, not to mention my love of Balenciaga, a topic he's so well versed on. Hopefully I'll see some of my Phoenix readers there.

Kimono Jacket : Angie
Tank : Gap
Skirt : Forever21
Boots : Topshop
Jewelry : Vintage

Tribal Print Dress

2011-05-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

If the billboards are right then, as of tomorrow, it'll only be us sinners left on earth. So I guess I don't have to change my weekend plans. If, by some clerical error, I get whisked off to that Graceland in the sky (they'd better have cocktails waiting) then I'll be leaving this little dress to my sister; it's her birthday on Sunday and she is milking it for all it's worth, with a 3 day extravaganza that includes a sangria party, movies, dinners and multiple cakes.

Dress : Forever21
Jacket & Cuff : Vintage
Wedges : Chloe
Polish : Jason Wu for CND in Sophia

Maxi Skirt

2011-05-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

I'm apparently drawn to all things maxi at the moment, the closer to the floor the better.

Skirt : H&M
Tank : River Island
Bag : Cost Plus
Rings & Cuff : Vintage
Necklace : Charlotte Russe

Vintage White Dress

2011-05-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

In keeping with the age old tradition of only spilling when you're wearing white, I managed to to dip the hem of this dress in something unsavory as soon as these photos were taken. Thank god it cleaned up OK because I was intent on wearing it to my girlfriend Misty's store opening last night. She has the most incredible eye and her shop is a treasure trove, but more on that in a another post when I can show you what goodies I came away with.

Dress : Vintage
Wedges: Chloe
Jewelry : Mix of old and new

Lace & Fringe Jacket

2011-05-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Took a little jaunt down to Tucson this weekend to see Fleet Foxes; holy harmonies they were good! The girls and I partook in some cocktail hours (many), vintage shopping (gaudy) and ostrich petting (scary, those suckers can bite).
I picked up this fringe and lace beauty at Topshop last week; I was in a state of rhapsody having denied myself the pleasure of consumption for a month, a worthwhile experiment but not one that I will be repeating soon.

Safari Dress

2011-05-05T16:19:00.000-07:00

This is dress has toucans, zebras and tigers on it. It's ridiculous. The camouflage effect works too, I almost couldn't find myself in this photo.

Dress & Belt : Vintage
Boots : Topshop
Necklace : Forever21

Skirt Steak with Black Olive Aïoli

2011-05-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

I found some baby artichokes at the farmer's market this weekend and thought I'd rustle up one of my favorite spring recipes. The black olive aïoli is intensely salty (divine) and goes well with chunky fish and shrimp too, but on this perfect Sunday I decided to stick to a classic (and cheap) steak. I fired up the barbecue, knocked back a couple of cocktails and tucked into this savory treat all while listening to a little Mike Snow.

I marinated the steak in olive oil, chiles de arbol, rosemary, thyme, pepper and lemon zest.

The baby artichokes were sauteed and mixed into a crispy potato hash with roasted garlic, thyme, shallots and loads of salt.
Full recipe here.

A Little Undone

2011-04-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it, I bought into the feeding frenzy that was the Royal Wedding. I gathered with my girls bright and early to scoff some of mum's lemon curd and ooh and ahh over the proceedings. I'm not sure if being so far from home invoked this sudden onset of British pride, or perhaps the royally themed photo shoots I was producing at work this past couple of weeks made an impact. Either way I was humming along with the national anthem. Now the pomp and circumstance is over and all that's left is a rather disheveled me, having forgone my usual outfit selection and makeup routine in favor of quiche and cups of tea this morning. So as an antidote to all that formality I'll send you into the weekend with some images that are a little more down to earth.

All images via Fashion Gone Rogue

That 70's Vibe

2011-04-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

This outfit is a bit of an ode to the 70's. I definitely tend to teeter on the edge of costume-y when I embrace a decade, so let's just take a minute to approve of my decision not to feather my hair this morning. I have to thank my pal Dana for this dress... she moved house and sold half of her covetable wardrobe over breakfast cocktails and chips and dip. This dress, along with a fringy number that's just dying to make it's debut, came home with me.

Dress : Vintage
Clogs : Mme Michelle

Flares

2011-04-25T15:52:00.000-07:00

These bells just seem to go with everything right now.

Flares & Top : H&M
Necklace, Bag & Belt : Vintage
Wedges : Zara

Bangers & Mash

2011-04-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Every so often I get a hankering for some food from the homeland. My shepherd's pie and roast dinner's are perfect for a chilly Sunday afternoon but we only get about 3 of those a year, so I'm dedicated to creating lighter versions of the food I grew up with. Submitting to my craving for bangers and mash this week (it was 90 degrees every day) forced me to substitute smashed new potatoes with sauteed leeks for the regular stogy mash, and a red wine reduction for the usually rich gravy. A side of roasted purple and yellow carrots and some perfectly porky sausages from Schreiner's kept it spring-a-licious.

Black Maxi Skirt

2011-04-20T15:08:00.000-07:00

I seem to be unable to shake the post weekend haze (which is fair considering the caliber of said weekend), so I'm not going to attempt to dazzle you with witticisms and flashy outfits. Instead a rather simple maxi skirt and perfectly droopy t-shirt.

Skirt : H&M
Tshirt : Theory
Belt : Cost Plus
Rings & Cuff : Vintage

Lindsey Thornburg

2011-04-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

Love everything about this line. Watch the video here. Buy here.

Lace Shorts

2011-04-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to avoid being trampled by hipsters, and my general displeasure with seeing man cleavage in neon deep-V's, I've decided to give Coachella a miss this year. I used to adore laying under the palm trees watching a band while the sun went down over the mountains. But now the scene is more a battle of the hipster headbands, squeezing into tents that resemble sweat lodges and a skilled game of celebrity spotting (this is a pretty funny fashion round-up). But that doesn't stop me having my own little festival here in town. Half the bands are stopping here on their way to or from Coachella and the weather is perfect. So tonight is Local Natives and Arcade Fire, tomorrow is Cage the Elephant and Black Keys.... and the list goes on. And I can wear heels to my festival.

Shirt : French Connection
Shorts & Hat : H&M
Boots : Topshop
Cuff : Vintage
Necklace : Forever21

Roasted Chicken and Farmers Market Veggies

2011-04-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

I love working with fresh local produce, keeping it simple and letting the natural flavor shine through. This is a dead easy weeknight meal but good enough to share with friends.

Roasted chicken pieces in olive oil, lemon juice, tarragon, s+p.

Roasted veggies (new potatoes, carrots, red onion, kale and tomatoes) with garlic, olive oil, oregano sprigs, s+p.

Topped with watercress and olive salad (dressed in a little lemon juice and olive oil) and a herb crème fraiche (basil, tarragon, parsley, chives, lemon zest, s+p).

White Maxi Dress

2011-04-06T14:53:00.000-07:00

This vintage little number has served me well all winter under a slouchy sweater (see here). It would have served me well all summer too if I hadn't just rolled my chair over it and torn a big bloody hole in it. That's what I get for wearing it to do mundane things, like sitting at a computer. A dress like this should only be worn for prancing about in fields with fairies and unicorns. I suppose I'll have to put my sewing skills to the test this weekend so I can remove the tape that's currently hiding the misery.

Dress & Necklace : Vintage
Belt : H&M

Sunday Supper

2011-04-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

I had a couple of friends over for dinner and drinks on the patio last night. I love Sunday's spent in the kitchen, music on, windows open.
I rustled up a messy shrimp dish (there's nothing better than getting stuck into a big bowl of prawns covered in a garlic-y tomato sauce then licking your fingers clean), a big green goddess salad and panna cotta for desert. I decided to go with a more mellifluous appetizer, in the form of a light and floral cocktail (the best way to start a meal in my opinion).

My twist on a gin fizz: 1 1/2 oz. gin, 1 1/2 oz. St. Germain, 3/4 oz. lemon juice, 3/4 oz. egg white, 1/2 oz. club soda. Shake over ice and serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon and lemon zest.

Prawns in yellow tomato confit, garlic and chile recipe here.

Creme fraiche panna cotta with rhubarb compote here and here.

Ruffles & Lace

2011-03-31T16:27:00.000-07:00

I should just start calling this the White Dress Blog. I'm clearly obsessed but really, is there any better ensemble for these balmy spring days? It's supposed to be in the 90's tomorrow and I'm not even close to being daisy duke ready. I foresee another pool and patio oriented weekend.
My sister and I have vowed not to go shopping for a month. That doesn't sound like long but I surprised myself when I tallied up how often I'll just pop into a shop on a whim. If I accomplish this it will be no small feat, so bear with me as I may be having some dramatic mood swings for the next few weeks. How long have you managed to go without purchasing clothes (I need some hope here people)?

Dress : H&M
Wedges : Zara
Turquoise : Vintage
Gold Necklace : Forever21

One Shouldered Dress

2011-03-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

This weekend, like most weekends, I was intent on channeling Bianca Jagger. A long, white, one-shouldered number with disturbing amounts of gaudy gold jewelry and lots of black eyeliner. The outfit wasn't exactly in-keeping with the Museum event I wore it to (I helped organize the opening of the Theatre de la Mode exhibit) but I couldn't resist it's Grecian drape. The opening was a huge success so I treated my dress to cocktails at Merc Bar with the girls afterwards.

Dress : H&M
Necklace : Banana Republic
Bracelets & Rings : Vintage
Shoes : Forever21

Beachy

2011-03-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

I grew up by the sea. I made sandcastles with my sister on school holidays, I drank cheap booze under the pier with my pals when I was a teenager, I took long walks in the blustery wind to make sense of my first heartbreaks, every memory of growing up includes the beach. Now I live in the desert. It's torturous to be so far from the ocean and I long for it. Put Dree Hemingway in some ethereal dresses and add some sand and wave foam and you've basically got the perfect beach fantasy.

Photos by Sofia & Mauro for Numero via Fashion Gone Rogue.

Ladylike Skirt

2011-03-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Every now and again I go against my impulses and dress appropriately for work. These times are rare and so I must embrace them. A below the knee skirt, a shirt that covers my bra and an appropriate amount of accessories, almost the antithesis of my usual attire but hey, it's nice to feel like a lady every now and then.

Skirt : Sonia Rykiel (old)
Blouse & Belt : H&M
Fur Vest & Shoes : Forever21
Rings : Vintage
Necklace : Gift

Flares and Turquoise

2011-03-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Feeling suitably bohemian in this outfit. The sun's a shining and the weekend's upon us. I see patio cocktails and pool time in my near future.

Top : Forever21
Jeans : H&M
Aviators & Triangle Necklace : Urban Outfitters
All Other Jewelry & Bag : Vintage

Fish Tacos

2011-03-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

This is one of my easiest go-to meals after a busy day at work. Just grill some mahi-mahi with a little salt, pepper, lemon zest and chili. Heat up some corn tortillas and spread with aioli (mayo, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt and pepper, sometimes I add fresh chili). Top with the fish, some arugula, lots of cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
I made an avocado salad to go with it; sliced avocados tossed in a little olive oil, orange and lemon juice, fresh chopped mint and cilantro and tons of salt. Super tasty and healthy and great with a glass of citrusy sauvignon blanc.

Vintage White Dress

2011-03-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

I'm regularly guilty of purchasing the same thing over and over again. I get a bee in my bonnet about an item or a look and I'm not satisfied until I've bought it in all it's variations. That can certainly be said of my current penchant for vintage white dresses. I have long and short, lacy and now prairie (I robbed a pilgrim for this one).

You remember this little dress, it' been a regular since I found it at Butter Toast last year. I rocked it in Vegas with lots of gold for a day look. I'm looking a little weary in this shot, could it be the 20 course meal with wine parings I had the night before or the cocktail indulgences at the Chandelier Bar in the Cosmopolitan where we stayed? Your guess is as good as mine.
P.S. If you're a foodie you have to try é inside Jaleo. One of the most incredible meals I've had in my life. Here's some info on it.

White Dresses : Vintage
Boots : Topshop

Weekend Inspiration

2011-03-11T15:52:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but every weekend I am faced with a important decision; weather to embrace 70's glam or boho cowboy. I must choose carefully, this is life altering and somewhat hazardous, for 70's glam poses a fire hazard via hairspray indulgence and boho cowgirl cautions possible strangulation by fringe.

70's?

Anja Rubik for Vogue Australia by Marcin Tyszka

Or cowgirl?

Noemie Lenoir for French by Thierry Le Goues

Glam?

Magdalena Frackowiak for Numero by Sean & Seng

Or boho?

Ymre Stiekema for Vogue Germany by Alexi Lubomirski

All photos via Fashion Gone Rogue

Leopard Mini

2011-03-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

I am constantly perplexed by the age old question of 'how short is too short?' I tend to err on the side of incautious and frolic in the belief of 'the shorter the better.' This works out for me when I'm standing but regularly gets me into trouble on shoots (lifting gear and props) and on overly textured chairs (wicker, wrought iron) which brand me with an unflattering arse pattern.

Boho Dress

2011-03-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

I appear to be unable to remove these boots from my feet. It's really not my fault, their fringy goodness is impossible to resist.
I'm off to Vegas for the weekend where I intend to indulge myself completely.

Dress : Some cheap shop
Belt : Vintage
Boots : Topshop
Necklace : Forever21

Shorts and Boots

2011-03-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

A pal once told me she thought shorts with boots were ridiculous. I beg to differ. They are perfect for all manner of vintage shopping, coffee dates, happy hours, farmers markets, photo shoots and other perfect weekend activities. The past few days it's been in the balmy high 60's which, if you ask me, is perfect shorts and boots weather.

On another note, I got a nice shout out as one of the Phoenix 'must-read' blogs in the new issue of 944. I'm featured with my gals Chelsea and Butter Toast.

Top : H&M
Shorts : Forever21
Boots : Topshop
Jewelry & Bag : Vintage

Peacock Feathers

2011-02-28T14:55:00.000-08:00

This Lopez looking vintage piece was about to make it's debut at the Phoenix Art Museum this weekend when a wardrobe malfunction (otherwise known as boob slip) forced me to change at the last minute. I must remember the double sided tape next time I pull it out.
And in more important news, the museum event was the opening for an exquisite new exhibit called Fashion Independent: The Original Style of Ann Bonfoey Taylor. It features more than 60 full ensembles and accessories that provide a comprehensive look at the wardrobe of a dynamic and sophisticated woman (she was Olympic skier, flew planes, was a champion equestrian and designed ski wear, if only we could all be so talented). Often designed by Taylor herself, the clothes demonstrate a refined personal style reflective of her ourdoor savvy and gracious indoor elegance. Held in Phoenix Art Museum’s main exhibition gallery, Fashion Independent will be a showcase of Taylor’s wardrobe, style and vision. If you're in Phoenix you must see it, the show runs until May 29th.

Vintage Lace

2011-02-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

Wish I'd steamed my dress but I was too obsessed with this lace jacket to notice.

Lace Jacket & Jewelry : Vintage
Dress : Forever21
Fringe Boots : Topshop

Moroccan Chicken

2011-02-21T15:03:00.000-08:00

The only time I use recipes is when I'm entertaining, there's no room for cock ups or experimentation when you're feeding 8 or so hungry friends. But I do always put my twist on a recipe or at least tweak it to suit my palate.

I had my parents and some friends over for a cosy Sunday lunch and decided on this recipe, opting for chicken instead of game hen. I spatchcocked the chicken and smothered it in the spice rub the night before to marinade. I also used quinoa instead of the traditional couscous for a bit more bite. Everyone was so hungry we all dug in before I managed to get a good photo, so you'll just have to believe me when I tell you how impressive it looked piled high in the pan.

I can't take credit for the deserts (mum is the pastry chef in the family).

Gotta love my cowhide place mats from Ikea.

Flares

2011-02-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

These vintage Levis were there for the birth of the flare and have been around for every subsequent comeback. They're as old as me (don't try and guess) and they're tough. So tough that every time I put on a couple of pounds they refuse to button and make me feel bad about myself, they're bully jeans.

Jeans : Vintage
Kimono : Topshop
Top : River Island
Necklace : H&M

Lacy Love (Intimacy Giveaway)

2011-02-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge believer in saucy under things. Even on the dreariest days, if your undies are flirty, so likely will you be.

I have quite the collection of skivvies and vintage lingerie and even considered myself to be a bit of an expert on the matter. So when a girlfriend told me about a new store called Intimacy, where you could be measured by the 'Bra Whisperer,' I didn't expect I'd learn anything I didn't already know. To my surprise I was introduced to an array of bra styles that I didn't know existed, all in a size that I could never have fathomed (yes, the Whisperer has earned that title, I'd been wearing the wrong size for years).

I was like a kid a very expensive candy store. So I borrowed a few pieces to show you the lacy delights they have in store for you (of course I couldn't resist pairing them with some of my vintage collection).

As a little Valentines gift to you I have a giveaway for my U.S. readers:

The First 5 people to book a complimentary bra fitting appointment will receive a $50 gift certificate to Intimacy.
You can book online at www.myintimacy.com, just make sure you enter 'The Wardrobe Diaries' in the comment section. There are stores all over the U.S.
Winners will be notified and will pick up their gift certificates at the time of their fitting.

Spread the love.

Bras & Red Slip : Intimacy
Dress, Kimono & Bed Jacket : Vintage

Vintage Fashion Inc.

2011-02-04T15:23:00.000-08:00

Phoenix peeps; one of my favorite vintage shops is closing this weekend, pop in for last day deals, Saturday from 11am-5pm, it's on Central just south of Camelback. Check out my post on Vintage Fashion Inc. here.

Fringe and Feathers

2011-02-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

I think it's about time I embraced a little of the southwest culture that surrounds me here in Phoenix. I've been slow to integrate it's influence into my wardrobe but I can't deny my love of moccasins and turquoise anymore. And really, it would be a sin not to take advantage of the treasure trove of tourist shops around town.

Photos by Renam Christofoletti via Fashion Gone Rogue.

Alligator Cuff

2011-02-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

My obsession with gaudy gold jewelry knows no bounds. I knew this gator cuff had to be mine the minute I saw it and I fear it may never leave my wrist, which could lead to some interesting tan lines this summer but that's the price I'm willing to pay for this adornment.

Dress : Nordstrom
Booties : GoJane
Cuff : Max & Chloe
Watch : Urban Outfitters
Bracelets & Rings : BCBG, F21 & Vintage

Fish with Avocado and Grapefruit

2011-01-27T14:14:00.000-08:00

Here's a light and healthy weeknight meal I knocked up the other day. I was inspired by a hamachi dish at Nobuo at Teeter House, one of my favorite restaurants here in Phoenix. I don't feel safe making sushi at home (we live in the desert and the prospects of getting really fresh fish are pretty slim in my mind), so I decided to try a cooked version of the dish instead.

I steamed the fish (any white fish, I used tilapia) in foil with a drizzle of ponzu, a splash of sake and some chopped ginger and garlic.
I then topped it with slices of grapefruit, avocado, sorrel, spring onion, lime olive oil, ponzu and some of the juice from the grapefruit and served it with some simple new potatoes with a little butter and dill.

Bohemian - Part 2

2011-01-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

Here's part 2 as promised, albeit a little later than promised. The weather in Phoenix has been so glorious lately I've been able to rock bare legs and this little one shoulder number.

Jacket : Ann Taylor Loft
Dress & Boots : Forever21
Necklace : Charlotte Russe

Bohemian

2011-01-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

It appears the bohemian influence that ruled my latter teen years is still alive and well. I remember the first time I watched Performance as an impressionable young adult and longed to be swathed in ponchos and kaftans for evermore. Sadly, as a career woman, I've been unable to fulfill this childhood dream (along with marrying Mick Jagger) so I get my boho kicks where I can (mainly on the weekend). Part 2 of boho-tastic weekend coming later this week.

Hat : H&M
Dress, Cardigan & Boots : Forever21
Bag : Vintage
Ring : Urban
Necklace : Charlotte Russe

Great Lengths

2011-01-14T13:32:00.000-08:00

I'm all about the coziness of the maxi skirt with a slouchy cardigan on these cold mornings.

Cardigan & Skirt : Forever21
Shirt : H&M
Belt : Zara
Cuff : Urban Outfitters (old)
Ring : Banana Republic

Beet It

2011-01-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

So here goes, my first foray into food blogging.
I have a magical gift for turning grocery odds and ends into decent (even if I do say so myself) meals. This talent comes in terribly handy when I haven't had time to go to the supermarket and all I have to make dinner is a half empty tub of hummus, some leftover spaghetti sauce and a soggy lettuce. I do have to disclose that I have a well stocked pantry and spice cupboard which really is everything.

So here's what I knocked up last night (I wouldn't serve it for a dinner party but it was a fine weeknight supper).
I had one beet, some fingerling potatoes, a couple of chicken breasts and some ricotta salata.

I dusted the chicken with a little flour, all spice, cinnamon and chili powder, then egged it before covering it in polenta and shallow frying it to a crisp crust.

I made a salad of roasted beet, fingerling potatoes, cucumber, olives, parsley, watercress and ricotta salata (a salty hard cheese), then dressed it in a toasted cumin, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, shallot and olive oil dressing.

The tangy, smokey salad was great with the crunchy, tender chicken.

Vintage

2011-01-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you're all aware of penchant for all things vintage. Well, this outfit is a bit of an ode to some of my 'vintage' vintage pieces. I found this coat in a little store in downtown Phoenix over 10 years ago. I imagine it keeping some flower child warm during the rainy days of Woodstock and that maybe a little bit of those vibes are passed to me every time I wear it. There's a whole in the pocket lining that a few of my tube tickets disappeared down when I was in London and it kept me cosy on some memorable evenings in New York. Everything I'm wearing in this photo besides the tights and boots are vintage pieces that I've owned for over 8 years, what can I say, I'm a bit sentimental like that.

Chilly

2011-01-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year lovely blogger friends! I hope you all had a spankingly good time. I was terribly sophisticated and was part of a 5 course dinner party with wine pairings at a friend's house... I made pancetta-wrapped trout with verjus, crushed grapes and fennel gratin and had too loosen my vintage corset belt 3 times.
I'm not really a new year resolution kind of girl (I believe in any time of year resolutions) but I have to admit I have been contemplating a few things that I'd like to change, one being this blog. I started blogging as a creative wake up call for my wardrobe but I've been feeling the need to branch out a little. How would you feel if I started including some of the other things I'm interested in? Cooking, interiors etc?
In the mean time here's an outfit (hey, we can't rush change).

Trench : Banana Republic
Shirt : H&M
Shorts : Forever21
Boots : GoJane
Belt & Jewelry : Vintage

Top of the Tops

2010-12-30T16:17:00.000-08:00

A couple of Christmas treats to myself (my rule is one present for me for every 3 that I buy for other people), a perfectly bohemian bag and wide knit cardigan, both from H&M.

It's that time of year again, time for year end lists, I had contemplated doing a list of my favorite lists but instead I'm opting for something a little less cynical. So here are a few of my favorite things from 2010.

My best dressed goes to Marina Munoz, stylist extrodinaire and a girl so confident she can pull off mens wear with a sex appeal I only dream of.

My favorite album without a doubt is Teen Dream by Beach House, Victoria's husky voice and those melancholy melodies kill me every time.

My most worn outfit has to be this little Butter Toast dress with my Aldo boots, it's my go-to brunch/work/Saturday/Sunday/shopping/lunch/Monday/drinks outfit.

My can't stop watching TV show of the year goes to Top Chef All Stars, only a few episodes in and it's clearly amazing.

My new blogger crush obsession is the divine and quirky Frou Frou.

This time tomorrow I'll be ringing in the New Year with some dear friends, hope you will be too, so until 2011, toodaloo.

Studded Christmas

2010-12-28T12:54:00.000-08:00

I know it's a little late but here's a gander at my Christmas outfit. The studs felt equal parts glitz and rock and the flat boots were a practical decision based on the amount of time I'd be spending in the kitchen. I had a divine long weekend with all the British trappings, turkey, paper crowns, mince pies, copious amounts of booze and a snooze in front of the tele. Hope you all had a brilliant holiday :)

Dress : Joie
Boots : Forever21

It's All About Me

2010-12-21T10:56:00.000-08:00

I tend not to divulge too much information about myself on this blog, or anywhere for that matter, so I was a little hesitant when the lovely Chelsea of Tea Talk asked to interview me for her blog. Chelsea is a Phoenix gal and I'm all for supporting local, not to mention she's adorable so....
Read all about me, on someone else's blog.

Dress : H&M
Lace Shirt : Nordstrom
Boots : Forever21
Belt : Thrifted

Sheer Maxi

2010-12-15T14:46:00.000-08:00

Upon the advice of Cracking Good I bounded off to Cheap Thrills last weekend for a look at their vintage bounty, and boy was it bountiful. I found a couple of maxi dresses, one of the lace variety and this sheer one, both of which fall into my current 'be the Free People catalogue' look that I'm channeling. In an effort to keep it PG for work I wore a slip underneath and popped on this boyfriend sweater (which was never my boyfriend's). Apologies for not making the effort to pull a brush through my hair or slapping on some makeup for the photos, I was (as usual) running late.

Dress : Vintage
Sweater : Target
Belt : Zara
Shoes : Seychelles

Man Repelling

2010-12-08T16:38:00.000-08:00

–noun

outfitting oneself in a sartorially offensive way that will result in repelling members of the opposite sex. Such garments include but are not limited to harem pants, boyfriend jeans, overalls (see: human repelling), shoulder pads, full length jumpsuits, jewelry that resembles violent weaponry and clogs.

–verb (used without object),-pell·ing, -pell·ed.

to commit the act of repelling men:

Girl 1: What are you wearing tonight?

Girl 2: My sweet lime green drop crotch utility pants

Girl 1: Oh, so we're man repelling tonight?

Taken from the genius that is The Man Repeller blog.

So many of my fashion choices could be described as man repellers and, really, it doesn't bother me. I dress to please myself first and foremost but I'd be lying if I didn't acknowledge the women in my life who I seek to impress, most of whom I don't even talk to. I don't know which is worse, dressing to appeal to the male gaze or dressing to dazzle that stylish girl in the coffee shop whose name you don't even know.

So I decided to jump on the sandals-with-socks bandwagon. Pretty sure most men would find this outfit tantamount to castration in the sexiness department but what the hell, it kept my feet warm and I got to bust out the Zara platforms again. For added unsexappeal I should mention that the jacket has Howard Moon-tastic elbow patches.

Jacket : Vintage
Blouse : H&M
Skirt : Forever21
Platforms : Zara

A Serious Coat

2010-12-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

Your outfit doesn't have to be up to much if you've got a coat like this to wear over it.

Coat : Ted Baker
Jeans : Earnest Sewn
Blouse : H&M
Necklace : Banana Republic
Shoes : Forever21

Holiday Frivolity

2010-12-03T15:50:00.000-08:00

Every year my most glamorous friends throw a fabulous holiday party where there is no room for under-dressing and sequins abound. I'd like to look like this gal please (via Purple Diary).

I found this copycat outfit at BCBG, what do you think?

The Skinny on Slovenly

2010-12-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't say I've mastered the art of casual dressing yet. Stick me in the middle of a cocktail party or a museum function and I can dress to impress, but Saturday morning brunch or at work on a photo shoot and I'm always dismally inappropriate. So imagine my joy when I managed to put this little number together. To anyone else it would be their easiest, dare I say mundane outfit, but to me this was like winning the bloody lottery. You see, it took me 2 try's to find the perfect pair of skinny military pants (the first pair will no doubt languish in the my closet, a sorry attempt at being this pair), the sweater, a blindingly good find at Target having soured thrift stores for months prior looking for the perfect boyfriend fit and the jacket, that dynamite little vintage piece that was just waiting for the right outfit to feel wearable. So there you see, it's not so easy to look that perfect amount of devil may care and still be chic.

Jacket & Necklace : Vintage
Sweater : Target
Pants : H&M
Booties : Seychelles

Mod Like

2010-11-29T15:11:00.000-08:00

Due to a spat of overindulgence over the holiday weekend my outfits have been on the stretchy/baggy side and therefore, not that inspiring. What's a fashion blogger supposed to do during these less-than-inspired slumps? I mean, I couldn't even be bothered to browse the Cyber Monday deals! I must be coming down with something. So here instead is an outfit from last week. A little modtastic dress from Ted Baker, I love the drape of the sleeves.

Dress : Ted Baker
Boots : Aldo (last year)
Ring : F21

To Ted and Back

2010-11-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

I sauntered into Ted Baker last weekend for a gander at their fall collection (really, it had nothing to do with the Tedtini's they serve) and after a couple of gin based beverages I sauntered out with a bag full of stuff (I'm guessing that's the point of aforementioned 'tini's). They have some really great accessories and 60's inspired pieces in there at the moment.

Blouse : H&M
Shorts : F21
Boots : Aldo
Bag & Belt : Ted Baker

Bejeweled

2010-11-19T15:19:00.000-08:00

The only way I can make jeans and a t-shirt tolerable is to over-accessorize.

Faux Show

2010-11-16T15:37:00.000-08:00

This fur is so faux it took me 1/2 an hour to rub it down with Bounce sheets before I stopped sticking to everything within a 2 foot radius, at least I smell dryer fresh. This outfit really appeals to the 60's girl in me... the girl with the massive vinyl collection who has a crush on Lindsey Buckingham (the way he looked back then) and knows all the words to Aquarius. It also makes me look a bit like Rachel Zoe if she put on 100 pounds.

Fur Vest : F21
Top : H&M
Jeans : Vintage Levis
Boots : Seychelles

Slacks

2010-11-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

My reaction to a weekend of burlesque shows and a play about vibrators was to wear something decidedly unsexy. Should I read something into that?

Trousers, Top & Shoes : F21
Bag : Butter Toast Vintage

Too Cool To Bare?

2010-11-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

It was 59 degrees outside when I left for work this morning, a temperature so long overdue after the sweltering Phoenix summer that any and all women I know have been donning their tights in rejoice. I, renegade that I am, dare to go bare for little bit longer and feel the chill with pleasure.

Jacket, T-shirt & Scarf : H&M
Skirt : F21
Booties : Seychelles
Necklace : Dolly & Boy
Cuff : Charlotte Russe

Cargo

2010-11-08T15:44:00.000-08:00

I drank a bit too much red wine while I was making meatballs last night. As a result I had little motivation for anything, let alone glamour, this morning. So, having downed a couple of cups of tea, I shimmied into these skinny cargo pants and donned a vintage scarf and called it a day. Ladies, on mornings such as these the head scarf is your best friend.

Scarf, Belt & Bag : Vintage
Shirt : H&M
Pants : Ann Taylor Loft
Shoes : F21

Cuffed Jeans

2010-11-02T16:04:00.000-07:00

I tend not to wear jeans too often. I find them slovenly and a little lazy. My aversion has inadvertently made them a challenge to me and, in doing so, has taken all the laziness out of denim. So here they are, starting to feel fresh again, with something as simple as a cuff (oh, and the military vest doesn't hurt either).

Vest & Shoes : F21
T-shirt : H&M
Jeans : Levis
Cuff : Charlotte Russe

La-ti-da

2010-11-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

So I was Annie Hall for Halloween. I stood out among all the Scottsdale women because I was wearing clothes. I've got to admit, some of those slutty bumble bee costumes were actually pretty scary; some things should really be left to the imagination ladies.

Ladylike Lengths

2010-10-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

I'm jumping on the longer skirt bandwagon. I remember a time, oh about 3 weeks ago, when you wouldn't have caught me dead in knee-length anything. Then Paris fashion week happened. It was all over. Stylish lasses were working their Celine minimalism and demure hemlines to such heights of sophistication it made my mini's look downright last season (gasp). So here is my foray back into more ladylike lengths.
As a completely unrelated side, what is everyone planning on being for halloween? This nutty holiday has been growing on me since moving to the U.S. and I might even say I'm looking forward to it this year :)

Shirt, Bracelet & Bag : Vintage
Skirt : F21
Booties : GoJane.com
Ring : Banana Republic

Get Used To It

2010-10-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be wearing this jacket a lot.

Jacket : H&M
Dress : Butter Toast
Boots : Aldo
Rings : Old and Banana Republic