Pop that Collar

I got dressed today! I took pictures! And...I'm posting!

Evening performances started right back up again today. As it was only one house, I kept the attire a bit lower key than I might have otherwise. And considerably more comfortable...

Shirt Dress - Lane Bryant / Skinny Belt - The Limited / Patterned Tights - Simply Vera (Kohl's) /
Suede Taupe Knee-High Boots  - Nine West (via Amazon)

Necklace - LOFT / Earrings - Lane Bryant

I bought this dress yesterday at Lane Bryant's killer clearance sale. After 60% discount and a coupon, I paid $11 for this bad boy. Believe it or not, I didn't yet own a shirt dress (or is it a trench dress?) of any kind, which many would argue is a closet staple. Well, I had been eying this dress for a while, but every time I tried it on, I always felt it looked a bit frumpy on me - especially the matronly neckline. But for $11 I thought, "Why the hell not? I can do something with it." And as I'm not feeling terribly great in my own skin (thanks to more than my share of holiday pounds), I definitely appreciated the roominess of the a-line shape.

This dress screams for accessories, however. I knew right away that I would wear some fun tights, and these patterned burgundy ones were just a perfect shade to wear with its deep, dark navy (definitely nearly black) color. (I also have some super fun raspberry colored leggings, but those will probably wait for warmer months.) The belt it came with also had to go (one of its other main frump-factors), so  I added one of my own for a pop of color. I can also see doing belts in a myriad of other colors - yellow, tan, orange, pink, etc. etc. To make it a little less matronly, I also unbuttoned the first button and popped the collar - like the cool kid I am. =) (It didn't really stay that way for long, though.) As for the boots, this was their first wearing. I got them for only $61! They are originally $179! (Amazon is kind of awesome when it comes to shoes sometimes.) I do love the color with the dress - I think it all makes for a great overall palette. But because of the shaft height, you don't really get to see my fun tights very well. They worked, though, especially for these Midwest winters. Besides, it didn't really matter THAT much. =)

In other news, I'm in the market for a new camera. Just waiting patiently to see if the price goes down. I'll probably be taking the plunge this weekend either way. Here's to new toys and better pictures!

One Good Turn Deserves Another

Yes, I'm alive! =D

After almost a month of little to no posting, here I am. There have been a variety of reasons why I've been AWOL for all this time, and I plan to delve into those reason over the next few posts. But for now I just want to thank everyone for sticking with me and encouraging me along the way. I know that when it comes right down to it, I blog for myself, but I've also come to realize that I blog because of this awesome community of bloggers I've met, and with whom I've only scratched the surface. YOU inspire and motivate me, and for that I'm grateful.

It is therefore fitting that my blogger return begins with the (albeit overdue) announcement of my first blogger award!

A few days ago, I popped over to Ariana's fantastic blog, Fatale Fashion, and I read - much to my humbling surprise - that she was passing the "Your Blog is Breathtaking" award to me! Thank you so much, Ariana! It has been the perfect inspiration to get me back into the blogger groove!

As per the rules, I will answer a few questions, and then pass the award on to some of my favorites. So here I go!

 

1. What inspires you?

I am by training a musician and a music historian (a musicologist) and only a few short years ago I was immersed in the study of all things classical music, whether it was to teach my undergrad classes or to prepare to pass my prelims and begin to write my dissertation. My life has started to move in a slightly different direction, but I am still surrounded by amazing music and musicians, and when I'm fortunate enough to attend a few concerts, I never cease to be amazed by how much music can move me.

Warm, sunny days also do wonders to inspire me, as do my wonderful friends, whether those in real life or the blogisphere. =)

2. What is your favorite season and why?

As a Midwesterner all my life, I think I've learned to appreciate things about all of the seasons. I mean, how else would we survive?? Hahaha.  I think spring is my favorite season, though - especially the first burst of green that announces its arrival. So much life and possibility! And when you've had to endure a blistering winter, it is such a reward! On the other hand, there is so much to love about the winter holidays, and I'd waxed poetic about that in a few posts over the season already. =) The warmth, colors, and sounds of Christmas get me all sappy inside!

3. What are you most looking forward to this year?

I mentioned above that my life is taking a few different turns as of late, so I'm looking forward to really deciding where I'm going, once and for all. =) I also looking forward to paying off large chunks of debt!!!

4. If you could write a book about anything, what would you write about?

If I were to write anything of length, it would be my dissertation on the 19th century Russian composer, Sergei Rakhmaninov.

5. What is your greatest passion? 

I sometimes forget it, I really do, but music has been such a huge part of my life that I cannot deny that it is still a great passion of mine. But, I also take pride in and feel very strongly about honing my own personal style, and perhaps even helping others do the same. Hence this blog. =)

6. If you could change one thing about your life or yourself what would it be and why? 

I've been a curvy girl my entire life, or at least since the 4th grade. It's something I've lived with but never really accepted, sadly enough. Incidentally, that's one of the other main reasons I started this blog, but old habits die hard. I have rejoined Weight Watchers, however (as those of you who follow me on Twitter already know), and I'd like to really make a difference with myself - my weight, my health, my overall self-acceptance - through the program, as I had started to once upon a time 3 years ago.

I would ALSO like to get rid of all debt (and all on reliance on credit) other than student loans - which might never go away. =7

7. Lastly, what is your favorite novel? 

I'm a thirty-something who must admit that I continue to read and reread the Harry Potter series (especially Book 7). It's my comfortable blanket that tucks me in every night before I fall asleep. But, I also have to say that the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky, especially the Brothers Karamozov, have had a tremendous influence on me, so once again I must list two. (Though can they BE more opposite!?!)

I sure did break these rules by listing at least 2 things for every answer, didn't I.... =7

And now, the fabulous ladies I would like to pass the "Your Blog is Breathtaking!" award goes to:

1. Sara of Bombshell Beauty
2. Hilary of By Hillary
3. Tania of What Would a Nerd Wear
4. Erin of Work With What You've Got
5. Natalie of When Life Hands You a Pear...
6. Kyla of Blue Collar Catwalk
7. Clare of Between Laundry Days 

All of these girls are far more established bloggers than myself, but I just wanted to pass on this award as a token of thanks for all they've done to inspire me, even if they don't know it!

There are SO many more others, but then the list would be too long! And though they both already received the award, I would still like to give a shout out to Ariana of FATale Fashion and U. of Curvy Everyday!

Thanks for reading, everyone! 

Happy New Years!

Happy New Year's everyone! Cheers!!

Fun with Colors

Hi everyone! Like many others, I've taken a little break from blogging (read: getting dressed) over the holiday break, so I haven't had many outfits to share. I should have a few outfits later this week, though - New Year's Eve is a-comin'!

The real reason for this post is to ask you to let me know what you think of my new layout! It's fun to play with these things, but it's definitely a work in progress. I'm looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and yours the merriest of days!

Just a few of my holiday favorites for you to enjoy... =))









Enjoy this wonderful time with your loved ones!

A Night to Remember

Thank you SO much for all your kind birthday wishes and compliments! This post is a little later than I had intended, but that's me - always late to the party. =7 I had a wonderful time with wonderful friends, and I am happy to share a few moments (and outfits) with you here! (In other words, this post is photo heavy!)

First, the obligatory full-body outfit pose from home, with fresh make-up, hair and sassiness:

Dress - Connected Apparel (I cannot remember where I got it, though) /
Navy faux suede pumps - Payless / Necklace - Urban Outfitters

Let me say a few words about this dress. It's been in my closet for a few years now. I first wore it for my sister's bachelorette party back in 2007 (I think). I was heavier then, so it was considerably tighter on me, but after I'd lost a bunch of weight, I still came back to this dress often - especially when I had gained a few pounds but needed a dead-sexy dress to still make me feel good. Unfortunately, I've gained back more than a share of those pounds, so I was so happy to be able to rely on this number for my birthday. It's a dress that really celebrates my curves, you know? And what better dress than that to wear for a birthday - one that celebrates YOU?? =)

The dress is just perfect for a winter night's event (long-sleeves, thick cotton material), with totally figure-flattering details. Its double-banded waistband perfectly defines and accentuates my waist, with a roomy but shapely bottom to conceal all manner of sins below. The deep v-neck showcases my buxom girls and narrows my broad shoulders. (A good bra - thank you Lane Bryant plunge - is imperative with that much cleavage, though!) The length is also perfect for my tastes - I love a retro length that hits below the knee (as you see for my love of pencil skirts), showing off just a bit of my calves and ankles (which I generally love), but not too much to make me feel uncomfortable - or cold!

I toyed with various pops of color in my accessories for a long time, vacillating between blues and pinks in shoes, jewelry, and handbag. This necklace filled the space of my décolletage the best, however, even though it was still a neutral color. So, I relied on the color of my fabulous fuchsia Gustto, and finished off with these rich (though not bright) navy pumps. I thought it was a good balance of colors, but I clearly think that my shape is the star in this outfit, rather than color. =)

Handbag - Gustto (via BBOS)

You saw a few preliminary pictures with this same backdrop at the restaurant. I just love the burgundy walls (especially with my dress) and I couldn't resist having a little fun with a "prop." As we were pretty much the only party in the entire restaurant at this point (we had an early reservation) I figured I could act like I owned the joint for a bit.

And now, meet my boyfriend of nearly 6 years, Bob. He's cute. =) He also knows how to rock an outfit like the best of them.

Bob's Outfit: Navy blue blazer, redone with mother of pearl buttons (his idea!) - Polo Ralph Lauren / White button-down with blue diagonal stripes - Banana Republic / Light blue tie with pink stripes - Haines & Bonner (via TJ Maxx) / Pink pocket square - Polo Ralph Lauren / Brown heathered pants - Jos. A. Bank / Brown cap-toe oxfords - Johnston & Murphy / Glasses - Ted Baker

I love the backdrop here - rows and rows of wine bottles in lounge room of the restaurant (located on the other side of the room from my picture above). I did actually try to take the outfit picture in front of it, but it sadly did not turn out well. (Stupid camera. I have a new one on my wish list, though! We'll see if Santa pulls through.)

Aw, the loving (read: schmoopy) gaze...

I'm clearly all smiles with this boy at my side. =)

Friends! Look at them rockin' that photo op pose...

Group shots!

This girl here, a (former fellow) grad student finishing up her dissertation, has always rocked an outfit, especially a jacket. She has her own style that I've always admired and has even inspired me on many occasion. I tried to talk her into starting her own blog, but she wasn't having it. Maybe I'll have her guest post from time to time. =) In the meantime, check back for an update of her outfit deets. (I have to get them first!)

I didn't take pictures of the food, which, as the (sometimes obnoxious) foodies that we are, we often do, but after a few glasses of wine, great conversation and laughter with friends, and extraordinary food, I didn't even think of taking food pictures. Oh, and this isn't a food blog. And I was hungry! Seeing as how we've been to this restaurant for all of our birthday celebrations, we can confidently say it was heart-stoppingly tasty. Thanks to the phenomenal staff at Bacaro for a memorable evening!

A Christmas tree made of wine corks - Awesome!

Birthday Dinner (Preview)!

What a wonderful birthday dinner I had with friends tonight! This is just a teaser for you now, but more pics to come, I promise!

PLUS, the spoils of my Anthropologie birthday shopping spree...

See you soon!

Inertia

You know those days when you don't realize how exhausted you are until you stop moving? Yeah, that was today. I gotta say, though, I like a day where 9 hours go by in a blink of a eye, even if I spent most of it running around. I got my work-out today, that's for sure! (Er, something I definitely need more of...)

Black and white checkered jacket - The Limited / Floral cardigan - LOFT /
Ivory camisole - LOFT / Turquoise skinny belt - The Limited / Black wide-leg pants - NY&Co. /  Black ankle length boots - Laundry by Chinese Laundry

As today was a super early morning for me (I rarely see this side of 7am for anything), I knew 1) my hair was going to go up, 2) I was going to need a latte (after I picked up bagels for my staff) and 3) I needed to find an (good) outfit the night before. And this was it! I'm really pleased with this remix of mine. What I like most about it is the pattern mixing/layering of the jacket and the cardigan, both of which, when worn separately, have significantly less pizazz. The pairing just adds so much more texture and depth to a potentially boring black pants ensemble. I added the belt for just a little more color to tie it all together (literally and figuratively, really).

My only regret - my shoe choice. Nine hours of running around calls for a much more comfortable pair of shoes, or at least a pair with Footpetals inserts. These boots were a failure on both counts, even though they were the right height and silhouette for the paints. Gotta pick your battles, eh?

Outtake! I should do more of these. Shoot, it's new pose, for cryin' out loud...

Re: the latte - I got it for free! The Starbucks barista (manager, actually), with whom I used to work at Banana Republic back in the day, not only recognized my voice through the drive-thru speaker, but told me the latte was on him today. You rock, Jason! Totally made my day. That, and my fabulous, fantastic, funny and hard-working staff that helped make an otherwise hard day of work relatively easy. Garsh, I'm all warm and fuzzy inside now.

I also just watched WALL-E so that might have had something to do with it, too. =)

Necklace and Earrings - LOFT

It's barely started to sink in that I have two weeks of holiday vacation bliss now ahead of me. What to do with myself? I think I'll wrap presents...

Scarf It Down

What a busy day! I can't remember the last time I was so productive in such a short amount of time. Tomorrow (yep, Saturday) is my last day of work before a nice two-week holiday vacation, and since I've been out sick for most of the week, I had lots of catching up do! Top it all off with some lovely coffee klatch with Tania and then oodles of errands, and here I am! Tomorrow will be a verrrry early morning since I'll have to be at work by 7:30am, so we'll see if I get to bed here at a reasonable hour. (Doubtful, night owl that I am.)

Hey, look! A new pose! =7

And another (goofy) one! I had to experiment with angles today, since - sadly - this blazer is kind of boxy on me, and there was no helping it even with a belt. It's just a little too big in the shoulders and long in the arms. Strange, because the other one I have (same size and everything!) fits perfectly!

Blazer - LOFT / White tee - The Limited / Flare-leg jeans - Lane Bryant

This outfit is really all about the scarf, though. Yet another find from Affordable Scarves, I'm smitten with its color palette of grey and purpley-pink. And the print! Gotta love a chain print. (Well, at least I do.) You know, come to think of it, I purchased this scarf precisely to wear with this very blazer. I remember lamenting that I didn't really have a scarf to go with it yet, but really thought one would be the perfect accessory for it. (Duh, since I wear this combo often.) Blazer + scarf = wardrobe magic. And I'm getting better at tying them!

Handbag - Tano "Homemade Cake" in Bordeaux /
Taupe (ankle-length) boots - Laundry by Chinese Laundry (via Famous Footwear)

I kept everything else pretty muted, since I wanted the purple hues to be the star. Add some great jeans, a crisp white tee underneath, big brushed silver earrings, and taupe boots, and you've got yourself an easy, classic outfit. Done and done. Perfect for a busy Friday, methinks.

Chain print scarf - affordablescarves.com / Silver earrings - The Limited (?)

It Only Gets Better

I'm feeling so much better today, everyone! Thanks for all your well-wishes, too! It was wonderful to rejoin the human race and to actually get things accomplished today. Primarily, that meant heading to Target to restock the Kleenex supply! And oh, man, I can't wait to start drinking lattes again...

Green cropped military jacket - Maurices / Striped tee - LOFT / Dark skinnies - Gap / Reversible loop scarf - affordablescarves.com

Today's outfit is remix of a few things you've already seen before - kind of a conglomeration of this outfit and this outfit. Definitely a favorite silhouette of mine, especially if it means I can wear these boots! And getting back into the swing of things calls for an easy and comfortable number.

Handbag - Tano "Minilisa" in Blue Marine

I will admit, though, that I wore my snow boots all day, since I forgot my regular boots. I really need to waterproof them, too, since I'm really afraid what all this snow and slush will do to them otherwise!

I love this scarf. Yes, yes, I'm a broken record there.... I love that it's two scarves in one since it's reversible - you can wear it so many ways just by deciding how much of each print you want to stick out. I feel like I have a complete set now that I have it in yellow and grey!  Bonus: Hilary of byhilary just picked up this scarf, too. Now, as she put it, we're twinkies! Great minds think alike...