Dump the Frump - A Collabo with The (Inner) Peace Project

I recently collaborated with Ashley of The (Inner) Peace Project to help compile a list of spring essentials for 2010. (Remember her from my Hot Mama post?) We focused on stylish and comfortable basics that will work well with her busy life of being a mom. Who doesn't love comfort and style? Check out our list and get inspired! 

Read it here!

Inspired Fashion - Part 1

One of my favorite parts of getting to know someone is learning what makes them tick. Why are they inspired to pursue a certain passion in life? What brought them to where they are today?

In this two part post, I'd like to show you two women who have given me my passion for clothing and style. It just so happens that I'm related to them! 

Meet my grandmother, Jeanne Rose Bell, or Grandma Jeanne to me. We spent hours playing with dolls and antique toys in my mom's old bedroom that served as a magical play place for me growing up. We always shared a special bond. She was a beautiful, caring soul and her classic taste still inspires me every day. 

Love this blouse!

Bathing beauty

This could easily pass as a photo of a movie star.

Grandpa and Grandma - she knit that sweater!

That little gal is my mom :) 

Part 2 coming soon....xoxo 

The Enemy of my Enemy is my Enemy

A very Dick Tracy -esque post from my favorite vintage blog.  Fly Vintage features an amazing vintage Christian Dior suit she found at a thrift store in this kitchy, retro photography feature. Oh, and I'm in it too. Thanks for letting me wear that little slice of heaven! 

Check it out! 

Variety is the Spice of Life

1 skirt, 3 ways

Making the most of your clothing is easy with a little creativity. See how many ways you can wear one of your favorite pieces by experimenting with different shoes, color palates, and accessories. It's just one more way you can save money and appreciate the wardrobe you've got.

Outfits: Skirt: 100% leather from a thrift store, Tights: Simply Vera (black), Express (red), Socks: Target, Shoes: Zigi Soho (booties), Nine West (yellow sandals, red pumps), Watch: Fossil, Belt: thrifted, Necklace (worn as a belt): 2 Sisters boutique, Scarf: H&M

Let's Go Crazy

Do I look different to you? Perhaps a little nuts?

I would like everyone to fully commit to unleashing their inner crazy this week. Not a dangerous crazy, of course. I'm talking about things you really want to do, deep down inside, that might come off as a touch...odd. 

How many times have you admired an amazing clothing item but thought you couldn't pull it off without looking loony? Have you ever wanted to wear outrageous long fake eyelashes? Maybe a giant faux hawk do? Whatever it is that's lurking within, let it out and own it!

Taking risks in fashion is the only way to progress your style. Might I suggest if you want to try out a new trend that you purchase it on the cheap, just in case? Thrift stores and Forever 21 provide a slew of zany pieces to try for very little dough.

 

So for this weekend and many weekends to come, rock your crazy inner fashion beast, loud and proud!

Outfit: Skirt: 1/2 of my senior prom dress, top: BCBG, Belt: garage sale find, Gloves: gift from Fly Vintage, Cuff: vintage, Necklace (without gun): Forever 21, Boots: Brian Atwood 

Hang Ups

I got some wonderful new hangers. They're similar to Huggable Hangers only without the label. I normally don't support knock offs, but come on guys - it's a hanger.

I got them at Costco for only $14.99 for a box of 50, as opposed to name brand which sell at a lesser quantity for $29.99.

So now my closet (or 1/3 of it, as pictured here) looks quite posh......

But what do I do with all of these?!?! 

Pack Rat

My life is so much easier when wonderful readers suggest blog topics and I simply take to my camera and keyboard with their idea and my knowledge in hand. Thanks :)

There are 2 things I really, really hate: flying and the baggage claim. I know I can't avoid flying, but I can pack smart and pack small. So let's talk about packing for a trip - in a carry on, on a budget.

My advice always seems to start with "assess what you already have." Really though, I promise it's helpful. Based on where you're traveling, check out your supplies and really see what you can work with before heading to the store to purchase anything.

• How many days are you going for? What type of trip is it? Most likely you'll need an outfit for day and an outfit for night - so for a 4 day trip, about 8 looks. Don't forget your pj's, socks, and undies! (blushes)

• Now is where you get creative. Plan each outfit with a piece from another outfit. Dark wash jeans for day 1 and night 2. Moto jacket for day 3 and night 1. See what I'm doing here? Another good tip is to stick in a similar color family. That way you won't feel trapped with a look if you change your mind mid trip. You'll be able to mix and match.

• Footwear can be tricky. My suggestion is to wear your biggest shoes (aka boots) on the plane to save space. Now select 1 pair of neutral shoes for night looks, such as a gold sling-back pump. Do the same for your day looks - a great pair of flats plus the boots you're wearing and you're set.

• Don't just clump your jewelry together and toss it in your suitcase. Pick out accessories for each outfit and only pack those. Same goes for belts, head bands, scarves, etc. Also pack one versatile evening bag and use the bag you're bringing on the plane for daytime.

• Where are you staying? Do they provide a blow drier for you? If so, don't pack one. Staying with a friend? Ask to use their shampoo/conditioner and skip the extra liquids. Also, don't get crazy with your hair. Stick with your normal do to avoid over packing hot tools and products. 

• I highly recommend you purchase a carry-on's best friend - SPACE BAGS! Not the weird kind you have to vacuum, but the type that you simply pack and roll out the extra air. You'll fit so much more clothing this way, without an overstuffed and messy bag. (you need room for souvenirs!)

• Now comes the fun part of putting everything into your suitcase! I suggest making an Excel checklist (nerd alert) of everything you plan on bringing. As you put it in the suitcase, check it off the list. 
  

With the above advice, I do hope you can size-down to a small carry-on. Carrying on is not only a convenience, it saves you money! Since most airlines charge for checked luggage, you'll save $25-$50. You'll also shave about 35 minutes off your travel time by avoiding the baggage check and claim. It goes without saying that you'll actually HAVE a bag at the gate as well.

Here's to light luggage and safe travels!

outfit: Dress: Richard Chai for Target, Fur Vest: made by my mom!, Necklace: Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohls, Shoes: Colin Stuart for Victoria's Secret, Sunglasses: Vintage Ray Ban, Purse: vintage