Borrow from the boys.

"Mens sized ESPRIT plaid shirt, D&G red belt, Nine West black pumps, Ralph Lauren shades, black leggings and charcoal tank top"

(Photos by Tobias Schweizer)

This is my take on the whole plaid shirt bit we've been seeing for a while. Instead of buying a new one, grab a piece from a gracious male counterpart a.k.a boyfriend, brother, friend or dad. Glam it up until only a hint of that masculine Paul Bunyan (mythical lumberjack who appears in American folklore) look remains. By cinching the shirt with a matching colored belt, (to define your waist) turn the top into a mini! With an ensemble of dramatic heels, makeup and hair (à la Amy Winehouse), even an old plaid shirt could be dressed up.

In a Tight Spot

(Cardigan and stretchable skinny pants from Marshalls, thrifted lace tank top, vintage purse and necklace, designer bracelet)

I hardly wear enough long pants or jeans, and in the occasions that I do, I typically opt for ones made of stretchy material. The reason is largely due to necessity rather than preference, since it is almost impossible to find pants that perfectly fit both my thighs and waist at the same time. If it fits just right around the waist, it's way too snug around the thighs. If it perfectly fits the thighs, it's always too big around the waist. In most cases, I would have to get my pants altered to tighten the waistline in order to have the pants hug just nice around the thighs. Simply put, stretchable pants are the easiest solution, although not always the easiest find, to this pant problem of mine.

A Salute to Fall

"Black cotton baby doll dress", "black stockings", "ZARA military jacket", "black studded ankle boots", "Ralph Lauren shades"

While reviewing the Fall/Winter 09 collection, I stumbled across one of my most favorite of Moschino looks . There were only a few items adorning the model, but I instantly loved what she represented. Similar to what I have replicated, this outfit is about a girl who is not ready to let go of the summer days, acquiescing nontheless to the coming fall with style. The heavier military jacket perfectly balances the light baby doll dress, (or pleated mini skirt in the Moschino case) that has yet to prove its irrelevance despite the coming cold. Finally, to complete the feminine military look, I wear a pair of leather studded ankle boots. This post salutes the fall because it allows die-hard summer fans to incorporate past season favorites with pieces you would rather wear in lower temperatures.

From Work to Play

(black PENA ruffled blouse, grey V-neck ZARA sweater, black Amcerian Apparel pencil skirt, GUESS bag, strappy black Kenneth Cole pumps, Ralph Lauren shades)


This is the last installment of looks from my first post. If you're one of the many that find themselves chasing time, this outfit will hopefully give you the much needed respite from your busy day. Whether it be classes, a presentation at work or a business meeting, our professional spheres and respective wardrobes tend to dominate the day. For those whose work times come narrowly close to a night out with friends, a transition outfit is needed to save you the trek back home and wardrobe change. Inspired by the Spring 2008 runway shows, this look combines the traditional element of ruffles, with the present day structured and streamlined look. With layers of different textures, we have hints of academia from the grey V-neck, the professional yet flattering shape of the black pencil skirt, and the playfullness of a ruffled blouse. The cream bag outlined in black contrasts perfectly against the outfit's dark silhouette. Finally, I pair the entire look with patent black pumps; a staple for both work and play. As an ensemble and as individual pieces, the items neither clash nor outshine each other. Who says business and pleasure can't mingle?

Fringe Benefits

(Forever21 tee, cardigan from Marshalls, Almost Famous shorts, random belt, vintage Chanel purse, Guess boots)

The highlight of my pre-weekend (specifically Friday) was taking these boots, a recent purchase of mine, for it's first ever walk. Not only is this pair made of suede (my most favorite material for boots) and has fringes that make my struts filled with so many fun twists and swishes, but these darlings are also studded! There's nothing more I could ever ask for out of this pair.

It also doesn't hurt that this cardigan has an uber cool crochet design in the back! :)