Diamond in the Rough

Chicago is full of unexpected beauty. Who would think that a steelyard and power lines could create such a fantastic background? Well...I guess I did. ;)

This is an outfit I'll be wearing a lot this fall, no doubt. A knit poncho, the heavy texture of fur, a structured bag, and paper bag khakis? Yes, please. The best part is that all the clothing pieces were under $50 each. My boots were a wee bit more, but I saved for those!

There is one more thing I'm wearing that was more than $50, I'll admit......

 
It's my engagement ring! (insert girlish scream) 

I won't embarrass my fiance (whoa) by giving all the details, but I will say everything about our moment was perfect. We're so excited! 

I'm sure I will share a few plans and photos here on Fauxshionable, but I promise my main message won't change. 

Here's to the future!

Outfit: Poncho: Old Navy, Pants: H&M, Fur shrug: Vintage/thrifted, Boots: Christian Louboutin, Purse: thrifted, Sunglasses: Banana Republic

A Fauxshionable Year

It’s been a full year since I began this blog.  That seems a little crazy to me because of how quickly the time has gone by. Wow!

In a year’s time I’ve amassed quite a full library of content, all of which I can say I am proud of.  So what else did I do in this whole year that I didn’t even realize was behind me already?

I fell madly in love with Austin, Texas.

Ran a marathon.

Got mistaken for wearing a “Mad Men costume” before I even watched/knew what the show was. Nope, sorry, that is just what Fly and I wore to the Chicago Vintage Show.

Owned Gaga.

Vacationed in a hurricane.

Had a holly, jolly Christmas. Hi Dad! Hi Mom!

Got jazzy for NYE 2010.

Retired from snowboarding (after 3 attempts)

Visited the Chapel Hill chapter of my sorority (We're Omicrons from U of I - I-L-L!) and embarrassed my friend.

Brought Dr. Martens back.

Became a mouse.

Said bon voyage to Fly Vintage, clubbin’ style, as she left for New York City.

My bestie welcomed a baby

Got to be a Kuma’s Corner VIP for a day

Took a tour of my own city

A lot has changed in the past year, but mostly, life is consistent.  I can say I’ve learned a few lessons, though...and heeeere they are!  

1.) Put your whole self in. - Playing dress up and taking photos of yourself isn’t exactly normal.  I’m sure a lot of people who know me realized I’m more of a kook than they thought.  Regardless, you have to trust that what you’re doing is quality work, entirely you, and don’t hold back - no matter how much you feel like a freak.

2.) Open the door to opportunity. - If life gives you the chance to expand your reach, choose your partners carefully, but choose to move forward.  I’ve been lucky enough to work with some fantastic retailers and collaborators  - all of which have allowed me to do things my way.  If you think it’s “selling out,” well, you can go scratch! 

3.) Push yourself out of your comfort zone. - If you think it’s comfortable to shoot photos in very public locations in a city like Chicago, you’re wrong. If you think I love every minute of putting myself out there, you’re wrong again. I have all the respect in the world for real models, and I’ve never been so deluded to think this blog makes me one.  But these are my clothes, my styling, my vision and I’ll do anything to get it right. Feeling embarrassed for an hour or so is nothing compared to the satisfaction of pride in your work.

4.) Get scared. (BOO!) - The more you love something (or someone) the scarier it becomes to move full speed ahead.  If you’re afraid, take it as a good thing. It means you CARE.  Remember that achieving success in what you love makes life worth living. 

Outfit: Dress: Thrifted, Headband (a necklace): Bleach Black for Urban Outfitters, Ring: BCBG

In summary, scare the crap out of your whole self with the door open to a place outside of comfort.  Happy 1st Birthday to me. 

FIN