fashion52: photo challenge (17/52)

That whole thing where 'you feel how you look - you look how you feel' definitely rings true to me. If I'm wearing something lively and colorful, it usually means I've got some energy and am feeling pretty optimistic about the day. This blouse fits that description perfectly. It's a sheer wrap top with gentle ruffles. It works really well under a blazer or cardy and accessorizing is awesomely easy because you can throw on almost any color chunky beaded necklace. Perfect time to wear since it's finnnnallly warmed up in the midwest. happy happy spring :) !

 (old) Forever21

  

pretty faces

Things have been so hectic lately that it felt really therapeutic to sit down with a sketch pad and pencils and draw this week. I thought I'd share a face that I was playing around with. I think it's really interesting to combine different mediums and then also incorporate more technical designs. I love the endless possibilities and can't wait to explore more.

fashion52: photo challenge (16/52)

Even though I'm a little late on my fashion photo challenge post, it doesn't mean I haven't been taking fashion photos. Actually, it's been quite the opposite. Last week we made our big trip to the Mall of America  and I think we all had an amazing time, scored some incredible deals and shopped our little hearts out. Below is a quick snapshot of some fashion-y moments. 

fashion52: photo challenge (15/52)

To say I've had a fashion magazine fetish might be a slight understatement. Ask anyone who's ever helped me move heavy boxes full of them that I just couldn't part with. (*cringe* sorry!) Luckily over the years I've weeded through most of them and only have a few piles here and there. People's StyleWatch is one of them. Lots of real-world fashion, minimal tabloid gossip, and all around great shopping tips. I also love that they have plenty of affordable options for the regular woman. Thumbs up from this girl :)

Anthropologie Thailand inspired

Away We Go: Thailand from Anthropologie on Vimeo.

I could seriously watch this video over and over.  I don’t know exactly how to sum it up…  it’s exotic, dreamy, touching… and makes me want to travel even more than I already do. The colors are saturated and vibrant and the model is stunning... AND it’s an amazing fashion inspiration. 

I’ve been loving Anthropologie for many, many years now. When I was in NYC a couple years ago, I spent the better part of a morning wandering their flagship store, soaking it up as much as I could. It was more than just the fashion, it was the experience.

Below you'll find my Anthropologie-inspired wish list, what I want my next vacation to look like and then an illustration of my own. I'm definitely ready for a get-away. :)

Anthropolgie

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Thailand photo (found on Honey-and-Bee)

fashion52: photo challenge (14/52)

This leather handbag is a favorite on so many levels. I bought it while my husband and I were celebrating our 5th anniversary in Rome, Italy a few years ago. It's buttery-soft, has an adjustable strap to wear as a shoulder bag or a cross-over and has plenty of pockets. Looking at the little 'boot' embossment on the front totally takes me back to our time traveling. 

I also picked up a Vespa keychain the same day and temporarily put it on the purse but now the two are inseparable. There were SO many vespa's humming around - we weren't quite gutsy enough to rent one and brave the italian traffic ourselves - but maybe, hopefully, ... Next time ;)

Mall of America 2013 Wish List

What started as a family shopping trip for Christmas gifts, now has turned into the 8 or 9th annual Mall of America trip. A trip my cousins and I get RE-DICulously pumped up for. We save up, we make lists, we strategize. We live for that moment when we walk through those doors and all the magical scents slap us silly. I know most people find our giddyness a little crazy and over the top. But... what can I say, it's always been an AWESOME.TIME. and we've come back with tons of memories. 

Here's the wish list for 2013:

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(not pictured)

5. A medium-sized, dark brown, leather satchel, preferably with a cross-body strap as well.

    We're talking "staple bag" here.

6. Go-with-anything neutral toned wedges - super simple, comfy and classic  

7. Contrasting chunky-strapped sandals

8. Eyes open for anything cute involving polka-dots or nautical stripes