My Current Obsession: Prints {Pt. 1}

I have no idea if I've mentioned this before, but I just adore Kaelah over at The Clueless Girl's Guide. Her blog is equal parts High Tea and rockabilly (I have no idea if she would consider that a flattering description, but I think she's just swell!), and filled to the brim with genuine confessions about her life, values, and ideals. One of the things I really enjoy about reading her blog is the weekly installment she does called "Things I Love Thursday". She publishes an eclectic compilation of all things interesting, funny, adorable, insightful, discussion-inducing, and wonderful there is on the internet. I definitely don't want to scam her idea, but I have been trying to find a way to share all of my interests (other than buying clothes) with my readership. I surf the web more than I should a lot, but I tend to just stick to searching for things surrounding my interests. I have a ton of hobbies, but tend to fixate (obsess in a neurotic and obnoxious way) on one at a time. Currently, I've been collecting artwork for our home office and my office at work, but because art doesn't always make sense to me (and things have to make sense to me), I've found myself gravitating toward prints. Here are a few I have, or have been coveting lately. 

Red Riding Hood And Friends Giclee Print @ bubledog Etsy Shop 

This Red Riding Hood Print is currently hanging in my office. It was a gift from my mother for Christmas. As an English major, I've always loved adaptations of well-known works, and thought this adorable representation of the RRH characters was witty and unique. 

The Grit by Jamie Calkin

This print is near and dear to my heart. Mr. BD surprised me with this for Christmas for our home office. The Grit is a landmark in Athens, Georgia. I've mentioned it before as the best vegetarian restaurant EVER, and a place Mr. BD and I bond over. We spent our first Valentine's Day together there, and always make a stop when we're in town. They have something called a grasshopper cake, and if you like mint and chocolate, you will be in heaven. 

Freefall @ ashleyg Etsy Shop

Several weekends ago I found some unique screen prints on canvas at an antique store with my parents. My mom purchased them for me and they are now hanging in my office. I found the artist's Etsy shop, and while my prints aren't listed, she has so many other prints I can't wait to snatch up.  

The Red Bird @ Serena Gurmi Etsy Shop

'The Cast of Pride and Prejudice' @ BlueSkyInking Etsy Shop

Hunger Games-Catching Fire, Katniss  @ sookimstudio Etsy Shop 

Red Mousie - Pete the Cat by James Dean (website)

What do you think? Do you collect artwork? 

I'll Never Ask A Zebra About Stripes Again.

 

Old Navy Chambray Pull-Over (similar here, loving this for spring) | Dorothy Perkins Striped Prom Skirt (similar here in navy and multiple lengths) | Silver Multi-Strand Necklace | Antique Spoon Bracelet | Dana Buchman Bangle | Brighton Bangle (love this two-tone one) | Clarks Ingalls Dealware Boots

 

An outfit from the end of January on an unseasonably warm Saturday. Just wanted something cute and easy, and always looking for ways to wear my chambray pullover. 

And if you were wondering about the title of the post, I'll leave you with this Shel Silverstein poem.

“I asked the Zebra, 

are you black with white stripes? 

Or white with black stripes? 

And the zebra asked me, 

Are you good with bad habits?

Or are you bad with good habits?

Are you noisy with quiet times? 

Or are you quiet with noisy times? 

Are you happy with some sad days? 

Or are you sad with some happy days? 

Are you neat with some sloppy ways? 

Or are you sloppy with some neat ways? 

And on and on and on and on and on and on he went.

I’ll never ask a zebra about stripes...again.”

Everything's Coming Up Floral

I was inspired by my most recent Woman's Day magazine. I don't ever really consider myself a "fashion blogger" because the reality is, I don't have strangers on the street telling me how fabulous I look all the time. I don't read Vogue and though I really try to keep current on seasonal trends, colors, and silhouettes, I went to school for English. Yeah.

Anyway, I digress. This spread in my dowdy Woman's Day featured florals and stripes. I have NEVER been a florals person, but for some reason, I absolutely loved the outfit they designed. So I scoured the internet for floral prints that don't make me think of your old Aunt Mildred's couch.

1/2/3/4

I especially love the new Eloquii Floral Pencil skirt, and am really considering purchasing that for the spring, to pair with a black and white striped tee. Also the ASOS peplum top would be adorable for a Friday night date with your darling! 

What do you think? Are you searching for your ideal floral piece?

OMCZ #27 {Red Carpet Fashion}

This OMCZ was selected by Becky at Does My Blog Make Me Look Fat?

She says,

"As it is award season i would love to see some Red Carpet Glamour. Be inspired by some of the amazing outfits that have been down the red carpet and try and incorporate some of the key trends that seem to be appearing (colour blocking, bold colours, black and white) or even try and emulate your favourite stars red carpet look."

 

INC International Concepts Faux-Leather-Trim Pea Coat (sold out, loving this Calvin Klein Mixed Media Coat) | River Island Jewel Neck Tulip Dress | Chelsea Crew Maxin Pump  

 

 

I think there is nothing more glamorous than a simple dress in a flattering color with just a few touches of bling. This tulip dress is perfect for concealing my tummy, and the fuchsia compliments my coloring. With the built-in accessories, this makes for a no-fuss special occasion dress that doesn't even require me to wear special underthings! If I were actually debuting this look on the red carpet, I would want a floor-length skirt for added elegance. 

What do you think? 

If you liked what you saw, please stop by and view all of these other gorgeous ladies at their blogs!

Betty	http://www.bigfatbetty.com/
Natalie	http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk/
Nikki	http://www.nattynikki.com
Stephanie	http://www.seeingspots.co.uk/
Becky Brown	http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com
Mary	http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt
Hollie	Http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com
Erin	http://erinslittlebigcorner.blogspot.co.uk/
Debz	http://www.wannabeprincess.co.uk/
Becca	http://thegirlwiththeplait.blogspot.co.uk/
Rebs	http://sullen-hearts.blogspot.co.uk/
Katt	http://acurvycupcake.blogspot.co.uk/
Leah	www.justmeleah.co.uk
Mookie	http://muki7x7.blogspot.co.uk/
Danielle	www.daniellerharris.com
Beverly	www.thecurvyword.com
Sam	http://fattyboomtatty.blogspot.co.uk/
Gillian	www.weegillie.com
Sarah	http://plussizeproud.wordpress.com/

Weekend Warrior {Chiffon + Knit}

 

Old Navy Crew-Neck Cardi |  Dana Buchmann Chiffon Blouse (old) | Old Navy Rockstar Jeggings | Snakeskin Tote (old, loving this red shopper from Zara) | Brown ankle booties (old, loving these and these) | Silver Multi-Strand Necklace | Butterfly Necklace (gifted) | Covergirl Eternal Lipstick 

So, I have such a limited weekend wardrobe. And truth be told, I have no idea how my aesthetic translates into the casual and always seem to draw a blank when it comes to dressing in something other than jeans and a blouse. I am a Pinterest-aholic and have a whole board dedicated to weekend fashion that really speaks to me and has a good combination of comfort and class. I pinned this outfit a while back and thought, "Hm, I have some sweaters and a chiffon sleeveless blouse thing. I could try that". Ha. I won't go into the details of how I decided THAT look up there just wasn't working, and landed on THAT look down there. Anyway, not exactly my idea of GORGEOUS weekend wear, but I'm pleased that I tried something a little different.

 

How do you dress on the weekend? Do you have a formula for buying and creating outfits? Please share your wisdom!

The Eloquii Relaunch {And What I'm Loving}

If you haven't heard, Eloquii, the plus-size extension of The Limited, who closed down shop in March of last year has relaunched this week and they are scalding hot! A size 14-24 retailer, they are not new to the party (though they were around a lot longer than others). A few things to note, they are no longer under the umbrella of The Limited (The Limited has made some changes this year as well, one of which includes a wider range of sizes, yay!), but an independent company. Their website is very modern and trendy, to reflect the new direction of their product. Lots of color-blocking, lots of PU detailing, lots of metallic bling. I have scoured their site and picked some of my most loved pieces.

Abstract Print Fit & Flare Dress

Faux Leather Detail Peplum Top

Studio Drama Jacket

Floral Peplum Sheath Dress

Their new product is reminiscent of other retailers like City Chic or Torrid. On trend, and far from moo-moo territory. My only complaint is with the limited color scheme. I would love to see a wider range..because really..who wants to wear black and navy ALL the time?

Have you checked out the Eloquii site yet? Are you looking to buy any pieces soon?

 

Is "Pretty in Pink" Too Cliché?

 

In my apology post from several weeks ago, I compiled a few of the outfits I'd been wearing over the month of January that I had ZERO energy to catalogue on the blog during that time. This beaut of a flamingo colored shirt came from the Dillard's Clearance Store I am lucky enough to live within 10 miles of (maybe 15?). One of my New Year's resolutions was to wear more color, and through that vow I have discovered my love of hot magenta, or fuchsia islands as Old Navy stupidly named it. I can't quite remember why I thought it was good to go bare-legged in January, but it's North Carolina and I can't imagine it was that cold. 

Anyway. This Black Rivet Moto Jacket came from Wilson's Leather last year when I was inspired by something Tanesha at Girl With Curves sported on her blog. It's faux leather, but I truly believe you can't tell the difference. It's supple and buttery, and aside from making me look like I'm wearing an old-school bomber jacket, it's awesome. You can find a similar faux moto jacket here or the real deal here.

And finally, my trusty Chelsea Crew pumps. I love them dearly, but I'm seeing some new heels in my future, mayhaps with a less chunky heel? I love comfortable shoes and have a hard time finding pumps that my feet don't slip out of, but I'm feeling this relationship has run its course. Here are a few I've pinned recently. 1/2/3

Thoughts?

What's In My Bag?

So. Let me be frank for a moment. I. Am. Nosy. I believe in discretion, and I really try hard to be as polite (read: appropriate) as possible, but sheesh, am I curious. I won't rummage through your things, and I will zip my lip when the urge to ask uncomfortable questions arises, but I'm the kind of person who is just dying to use your makeup or toiletries, catalog your closet, and get to know you on a more personal level. I believe a person's purchases are a clear indicative of who they are, and I love seeing what everyone else chooses to fill their lives with. I don't know. Maybe it has something to do with being an only child and having no one to share with until having roommates in college. My parents joke that my philosophy is "What's mine is mine, and what's yours is mine" as it applies to those closest to me (just ask my best friend or Mr. BD). Please don't judge me too harshly.

Anyway, this undying curiosity coupled with the fact that my purse has become the dumping ground for several weeks worth of random junk, I wanted to share a 'What's In My Bag' post with you all.

My trusty Coach Tote. Similar here | Loving this and this in 'Love Red'

I was so amazed at how much JUNK tumbled out when I tipped it over

From Left to Right: 

1.Coach Wallet (loving this in gold) 

2. Coach Card Case (for my business cards) 

3. Brighton Bag (for my misc. hair accessories and a spare pair of stud earrings) 

4. Keys 

5. Crabtree & Evelyn Citron, Honey & Coriander Lotion (gift set here). Seriously the best smelling stuff ever.

6. Journal 

7. Coupon Accordion 

8. Reviver  Dry Deodorant Swipes for Clothes (compliments of birchbox here) 

9. Oil Absorbing Face Wipes 

10. Origins Peace Of Mind Sensory Stress Relief 

11. Joy Tin holding knick-knacks 

12. Alter Eco Dark Quinoa Organic Chocolate. Tastes like a crunch bar, but way better for you.

13. Spare Tights. This morning I pulled on my identical pair of Lane Bryant tights (acquired at a manufacturer sale close to where I work..for $0.50..brand new. Scout's honor) and realized there was a huge run up the bum and I was worried they'd split in two by day's end..so I packed these expecting the worst. 

14. Number 4 Non Aerosol Hair Spray

15. Assorted Lipsticks (includes Revlon Just Bitten and Clinique Chubby Stick) 

16. Random Perfume Samples from Ulta 

17. Day Planner (gift from a co-worker)

I always tend to have a million things in my bag, and no sort of method to the madness. I've been eyeing this small chevron cosmetics bag for a while, as well as these canvas floral pencil cases, both from Etsy. 

Do you use any of these products? Is your bag an absolute CF at the moment as well?

OMCZ #26 {Looking Back}

As I write this, North Carolina is in the midst of a pretty awesome blizzard and I am taking a break from the snowball slinging to share with you this week's challenge! Living in the south, we don't see much snow and I am just amazed at how much powder is covering the ground right now. I can guarantee some snow pictures on the blog in the next few weeks, so keep your eyes peeled.

Challenge twenty six was suggested by Stephanie, and is something I believe most bloggers value when it comes to measuring the success of their personal journey as well as a reminder for what they are doing and why.

"My theme is looking back and I’d like us to all look back over the last 12 months since the challenge started and see how we have changed.

It doesn’t matter if this is your first or 26^th post in this challenge I think it’s be nice for all of us to look back and reflect on how we have changed in 12 months style wise."

As I have been a bit off the path in the past few weeks, I found this challenge both energizing and frustrating. I love seeing how far I have come, but I still feel a little lost when it comes to finding my personal style and really defining my personality and taste through my wardrobe. I don't know that I have necessarily discovered things I am comfortable in now that I would not have been, but I have found so much love for myself since the beginning of this blog, and I am grateful every day for that. Not to mention I have realized I don't have to be a certain size to treat myself with respect. That was a big one there, folks.

One of the first outfits I ever blogged about.

The most gorgeous LBD I've ever owned.

Experimenting with print mixing.

Wearing the most gorgeous maxi, inspired by another blogger.

I think, all in all, I am slowly starting to find colors that really bring out my natural features, and silhouettes that make me feel sexy and sophisticated. I hope after another year of blogging (or at least shopping for myself) that I can say I have arrived!

If you liked what you saw, please stop by and few all of these other gorgeous ladies at their blogs!

Betty	http://www.bigfatbetty.com/
Natalie	http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk/
Nikki	http://www.nattynikki.com
Stephanie	http://www.seeingspots.co.uk/
Becky Brown	http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com
Mary	http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt
Hollie	Http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com
Erin	http://erinslittlebigcorner.blogspot.co.uk/
Debz	http://www.wannabeprincess.co.uk/
Becca	http://thegirlwiththeplait.blogspot.co.uk/
Rebs	http://sullen-hearts.blogspot.co.uk/
Katt	http://acurvycupcake.blogspot.co.uk/
Leah	www.justmeleah.co.uk
Mookie	http://muki7x7.blogspot.co.uk/
Danielle	www.daniellerharris.com
Beverly	www.thecurvyword.com
Sam	http://fattyboomtatty.blogspot.co.uk/
Gillian	www.weegillie.com
Sarah	http://plussizeproud.wordpress.com/

Apologetic

Friends. I know it has been quite a while. Because I am still trying to find a way to express what has been going on in my head, I want to save my excuses and explanations for another post. I am working through some body image issues and some fashion related woes, but there's no need to worry! Suffice it to say, I am sorry for my absence, and I will be more diligent going forward. But for the time being, let me share with you some outfits from the past month. I will be doing posts on each of these outfits in the coming weeks, so if you see an item you like, you'll have the details soon enough.

 

 

 

 

Thanks for sticking with me, and I promise you'll be seeing more of me! 

Weekend Warrior {Surplice Top}

Love 21 Spot-On Surplice Top (sold out) | INC International Concepts Faux-Leather-Trip Pea Coat (also available in plus size here) | Scarf (gifted) | Old Navy Rockstar Jeggings | Clarks Ingalls Dealware Boots | Covergirl eternal lipstick  

 

 

 

 I'm late on posting this, but this was my outfit from Saturday. It was mine and Mr. BD's anniversary and we wanted to spend the day shopping and goofing off out of the house. I wanted something that was comfortable, but cute, which never seems to happen for me. I was really pleased with how this outfit turned out.

I've been reading more about dressing for my body type. I'm still slightly confused about if I am an hour glass, apple or a pear, but I have been experimenting with more shapes and fits to see what I find to be the most natural looking on me. When I was gifted this top from Forever 21 for Christmas, I was really excited. I am always trying to wear wrap shirts, but find they are too constricting on my stomach and upper hips. This type of top really streamlines my torso which is compact and the chiffon material adds an element of elegance perfect for work or weekend fun. If you are still trying to find your own personal style, or are getting overly frustrated with certain cuts, lengths, or styles not working for you (I have that problem at the moment), consider trying something new, you might be pleasantly surprised.

Do you ever give consideration to your body shape when picking clothes?  

OMCZ #23 {Pencil Skirt}

I am totally late on this OMCZ post. I wore this outfit on Tuesday with the intention of taking pictures and posting on Wednesday, but we celebrated a little too hard on New Year's Eve and I just never got around to it. Like many of the other ladies participating in the challenge, I don't own a "pencil skirt" per se, but I thought this recent purchase of a pencil dress fit the bill.

Betty from Big Fat Betty said:

"'Pretty Pencils': I absolutely love pencil skirts but I've never had the confidence to wear them, what with the VBO and all that jazz. However, I've just ordered a beauty and I could really do with that push in order to wear it...let me see all you lovely ladies rocking your pencil skirts, get those pins out and share your style tips (as I also have no idea what to wear with the damn thing)!"

New Directions Illusion Pencil Dress | Tahari Suit Jacket (old) | Levity Suede Booties | World Market Silver Multi-Strand Necklace | Revlon Va Va Violet Lipstick 

A note about this dress. It is a size smaller than I typically wear, but it was the only one of its kind on clearance and I adored the silver thread in the tweed sections, not to mention the nature of illusion dresses is to give the appearance of a slimmer silhouette. I would have felt more comfortable with some shapewear underneath for a smoother look (not to mention it is unlined and itchy!). The suit jacket has broad shoulders to balance out my smaller upper body, however, next time I think I might pair this dress with a colorful boyfriend cardigan and skinny belt. 

Check out these other wonderful women!

Stephanie	http://www.seeingsp0ts.blogspot.co.uk
Leah	http://www.justmeleah.blogspot.co.uk
Mary	http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt
Becky Brown	http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com
Rachel	http://www.adressisforlife.com/
Natalie	http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk/
Nikki	http://www.nattynikki.blogspot.co.uk/
Rebs	http://sullen-hearts.blogspot.co.uk/
Verena	http://aplussizefashionobsession.blogspot.de/
Beka	bekasstuffystuff.blogspot.com
Rebecca	http://theplussideofme.com
Hollie	Http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com
Sabina	http://www.femmefatalexsabina.blogspot.de/
Betty	http://www.bigfatbetty.com/
Katt	http://acurvycupcake.blogspot.co.uk/
Mookie	http://muki7x7.blogspot.co.uk/
Debz	http://www.wannabeprincess.co.uk/

Auld Lang Syne {A fond Hello to 2014}

I love New Year's Eve. I love the idea that with the arrival of Midnight on January 1, all of my past year's mistakes and difficulties can be erased and replaced with sparkly new intentions. In reality, I know this is a silly notion. People tend to make resolutions based on societal pressures (lose weight, make more money, get engaged, etc.) or based on the desire to eradicate their chaos. Life is messy and when we recognize that hammering out all of our "imperfections" is counter productive, I think we can focus on doing things we actually enjoy as opposed to what is expected of us. 

With that being said, I am sharing what goals I have for 2014. I don't expect an overnight transformation, and I don't plan on punishing myself if 2015 finds me completely unchanged. These goals are centered around things I already enjoy and that I know will bring me even more happiness in the upcoming year. 

Fashion & Beauty Build a casual/weekend wardrobe and wear more color.

Career Attend networking events related to my industry. 

Relationships Be more proactive with new friendships and relationships. 

Health Develop new strategies to manage stress and social anxiety. 

Personal Read more books related to women's studies. 

If you are a person who makes resolutions, I have found a pretty straight-forward guide to developing new habits which I plan on adopting with any new goal I make in my life. 

I am wishing you and yours a safe and satisfying holiday. Now enjoy this Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt video.