Lorena's Every Day Wear

Groups

2012-02-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

I am back in school.

I am only taking one class for now as I need

to see how I can juggle it all with the

rest of the things I do.

Vintage blouse Persaman New York - Sculpture trousers -

Nine West gold flats - Urban Expressions bag

Last week in class we started working in groups.

We don't know each other so picking a group is a wild card.

The funny (or not so funny) thing with groups is that you will always

end up with:

someone who is impatient,

someone who is always comparing what they do to what you do,

the one who pays absolutely no attention,

the clueless one who you just have to ask yourself "why on earth is she here ?",

one that is willing to "help" but not think

and the one who actually gets work done and pushes everyone else.

Vintage pendant - Forever 21 colorful belt

Groups...

Guess which one I am from that group ?

Summer nights, summer tights

2012-02-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

This dress has been in my closet for almost 2 years, unworn.

I bought it before color blocking made a come back.

So technically it's an old new dress.

I decided I to wear it to a an outdoor summer night dinner.

It was on a terrace on the ocean. It was breezy and we had clear skies.

(no pictures of that, you are just going to have to believe me)

Love 21 dress Forever 21 - Brown clutch - Gold flats Nine West

Since the dress was worn briefly I decided to also wear it to work

the next day....

Love 21 dress Forever 21 - Urban Expressions bag - Kenneth Cole sandals - Brown tights

So which version of the dress do you prefer ?

Summer Nights or Summer tights ?

Feeling sherbet

2012-01-31T10:21:00.001-05:00

I like inspired by looks.

Structure orange trousers - Go International by Target grey top -
Yellow Tsubo shoes - Colorful Straw bag Sunny by Magid

They make my life simpler and

also teach me that unexpected colors

can look fabulous together.

In this case, wearing grey and orange.

I would have never been able to do it on my own.

June 2011 Instyle magazine was the "source"

of inspiration today.

I liked my colorful assembly !

And then it rained :(

Editing my closet in January

2012-01-31T07:35:00.000-05:00

I think this year I will be taking my closet edits more seriously.

Meaning I will be "evaluating" more pieces.

Last year's closet edits resulted with about 80 pieces

(including shoes and bags) leaving my closet.

On January, the first month of here are my edits:

White Energie top

elastic stretched and stained

Carole Little white top

Fabric was a little stiff and I felt it was a bit boxy.

Tommy Hilfiger fuchsia top

I was never totally convinced on this top.

I liked the color and the degrade but the elastic around the shoulders

and on the sleeves did allow for me to feel totally comfortable when wearing it.

These black Speechless trousers are so tight on me.

They are also low cut, which is why I never wear them.

Worn about 5 times in almost 3 years.

White Carven trousers.

They are over 10 years old.

Worn about 10 times during the last 3 years, wore them last in

mid January and they still fit but I now feel they

are a bit see through and the fabric has thinned out a little...

Mossimo jeans, too low cut.

Only worn 4 times in almost 3 years.

I am not really into the torn jean thing.

Black leather Ferragamo wallet.

I have had it for at least 5 years, it is scuffed and my aunt

has been asking me to let her have it, so I will.

Yellow bag Arena Milano

Did not last long... it was purchased in May 2011 for 1.99 USD (on sale!)

worn at least 10 times - so i'm guessing it was about 0.20 cents per wear.

Well now, it's torn and scuffed.

Gold tone necklace.

I never wear it - it just does not make sense to keep it.

Gold toned thread earrings. I think I have nicer earrings, so

I am letting these go.

My Volar dress is also leaving.

Worn 3 times in almost 3 years.

The fabric has some "printing mistakes" as you can see above left and

I never really "loved it".

I think I bought it because of the price.

My red and white flower print dress from Chadwicks is also leaving.

I recently asked how it looked when I wore it here.

While most of you liked it and I actually got

compliments on it during the day - well, I felt like the top was

boxy and like it was way too low cut.

Sure I could have tried the cami but I would still have felt boxy

and not comfortable in it.

Also in the bag is a pair of red Twenty One zipper heels.

Feet hurt, shoes scuffed and I don't wear them that much.

About once or twice a year just doesn't make the cut.

Max & Co. black slip on shoes.

I've had them for over 5 years and I never wear them.

They hurt my feet and were only worn half day ONCE in

almost 3 years.

Purchased in April 2012 were my Exclusive! jeans shoes.

Not comfy. They hurt my feet. The were worn about 5 times :(

Old Navy red Sweetheart jeans size 8.

After wearing these a lot I realized that they were

a little big and bought one size smaller, so I gave away the

larger pair to my cousin who had been looking for the

perfect red pair of jeans.... and these were it.

Also on their way to a new home are my brown Rafaella capri trousers.

I've been getting rid of my capris, pedal pushers

and whatever you want to call them.

This blog has helped me see that they are not very flattering.

Mickey, Hello Kitty and butterflies were also in the give away bag,

same as my "I get what I want" t shirt, brown Wet Seal tank and

giraffe print bottoms.

This time not only did I get rid of things that were in use in my closet.

But also things that were NEW and UNWORN...

For example this blue ruffle cardigan which I bought back in July 2011.

Six months have passed since I bought this and I have not

even made an attempt to wear it... so I am passing it on.

Same for my brown Bandolino loafers purchased in August.

I bought them for 20.00 USD and did not wear them.

I tried them on with several outfits but never

walked out the door with them.

So I actually sold them to a coworker for the same 20.00 USD.

Not bad for my first 2012 edit, 25 items !

This is so very liberating !

Debut

2012-01-30T13:02:00.002-05:00

I stumbled upon this blue and gold button down shirt

a few months back while in a thrift store.

Salt Works jeans - Marc by Marc Jacobs button down shirt -
Urban Expressions bag - Fergalicious beige pumps

I liked it because there is nothing in my closet like it.

It is not something I would wear, which seemed appealing as

it would be "out of my comfort zone".

Another reason I probably bought it is because of the brand:

Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Gold toned and rhinestone buckle belt vintage - made in Italy

This morning I took it out on its debut.

The shirt is itchy because of the gold threading...

I feel it is a little loud but I think it was what I was looking for:

Unexpectedly Lorena.

Just because sometimes I am just too predictable.

Running into

2012-01-29T11:46:00.000-05:00

One of those days where I just threw something on as I had no plans.

Jean Jumper Forever 21 - Tan flats from Barcelona - Straw Bag Sunny by Magid

Went out to get lunch and then to the supermarket.

Little did I know that I would be running into people.

People I would have preferred to be more presentable for,

well more like ... spectacular for.

Too late for tears.

Park

2012-01-28T19:15:00.000-05:00

Vanilla and Marshmallow wanted to go for a walk.

Ralph Lauren shorts - Red Tommy Hilfiger t shirt - Tan flats Palladium

So they dragged me (literally) to the nearest park which is half a block away.

We walked on the the dry grass which shows its summer.

Half an hour later they were beat

and then I had to practically drag them back home.

Two Tags

2012-01-28T09:55:00.001-05:00

I've been tagged by

dear Nathalie from the blog

When Life Hands you a Pear

with an award:

AND

the great Ariana from Style Montreal Sud-Est

So I thought to combine the two and make a

two for one promotion :)

I have to answer a few questions and
here are my answers:

What do you think makes you unique ?

Straightforward. No beating around the bush.
Although I make an effort to be "nice" about it.

What is you hidden talent ?

Hmmm ... I don't know !
I do know that I cannot sing.

If you had the choice,
where would you live ?

Maybe NY.

It all depends.

The things you hate to do:

Do the dishes. Clean.
Wait.

The worst injustice

I could write an entire blog about these.

Animal abuse.

Fast Fashion or Vintage ?

Vintage. No question.

Red wine or white wine?

None.

What makes it that you will be loosing
your patience?

People being late. Being disrespectful. Being loud.

Favorite male actor and why?

I don't have one and I just realized that !

High heels or low heels?

50/50

it all depends where I am going !

Favorite subject in school

Spanish Literature, Art

and World History.

My teachers made all the difference.

And instead of tagging, I'd like for you to
answer at least ONE thing in the comments section :o)

Diego's Dinner

2012-01-27T20:51:00.000-05:00

It´s been a long week,

so getting together with

family for dinner and laughs seemed like a perfect

way to end it...

Salt Works Jeans - Green tube top Ralph Lauren -
Kenneth Cole brown sandals

Colorful straw bag Sunny by Magid

Have a good weekend !

Grades

2012-01-26T10:24:00.000-05:00

I was in the process of putting together a set of

documents a few weeks back.

They were required documents for enrolling as

I'm going back to school.

Style & Co. brown jeans - Bluenotes vest - White button down Decoded - Zapatinho de Luxco beige flats -
Michael Kors black bag - Gold tone cuff Forever 21

Obviously the documents included diplomas, transcripts, grades...

My grades !!

Vintage gold tone book pendant - Vintage scarf

My grades were a total surprise to me,

I had an A average :)

I had actually forgotten how good I was!

Showing up

2012-01-25T09:54:00.001-05:00

Sometimes you show up to work,

well, just because you have to :)

Levis Jeans - Orange shirt Sawary - George turquoise velvet jacket - Anne Klein animal print flats - Michael Kors black bag

Today is one of those days.

The truth is I would rather be elsewhere.

Anonymous

2012-01-24T10:15:00.000-05:00

If you have blogged for a while you are used to

getting anonymous comments.

Insight trousers - Via Vai horse print peter pan collar top -
Kenneth Cole black wedges - Michael Kors black bag

I have gotten quite a few anonymous comments,

most are invitations to on line gambling, male enhancement pills,

guy gets girl cheating on video, replica watches and

bags being sold, printable coupons...

well you name it.

Of course, there are the angry anonymous who just want to empty

their trash in your blog, the funny anonymous, the anonymous angels...

So I wanted to share an anonymous angel message,

which are sometimes received when you are down and

going through a rough time and just make your day a little better.

Ok, this is my first EVER response to a blog and I read yours (and many others) everyday. My reason for responding (and my hands just jumped up to the keyboard, involuntarily) was to say that I think you look absolutely gorgeous in this dress. Then I read down and saw that you are not sure about it. May I say that (in my opinion) you would be crazy to part with it, it looks amazing on you.

There, I just made my first comment :-). While I'm here, I think you're gorgeous and love your honesty.

I don´t know who you are....

Thank you anonymous angel.

Red

2012-01-23T11:59:00.000-05:00

Red.

Just red.

A red sweater.

Speechless black trousers - Red Cable & Gauge sweater -
Tsubo yellow heels - Michael Kors black bag

And one tight SPANX underneath !

Feeling poetic today...

Happy Monday !

Head scarf

2012-01-22T23:11:00.002-05:00

I had seen it on Pinterest, on blogs and June´s InStyle edition:

the head scarf, the head wrap.

So I built up the courage and ...

Zenana Outfitters turquoise-green strapless dress - Exclusive! jean flats -
Jean bag Xhilaration - Vintage scarf worn as turban

today I decided to try a scarf as a turban.

It was a hot day and it kept my hair in place.

It was surprisingly comfortable and I got

a few stares... which was totally expected.

It was my first time wearing a turban...

and it won´t be the last.

Cavalli Oro

2012-01-21T11:47:00.001-05:00

This is my personal favorite from

Roberto Cavalli Fragrances: ORO.

Oro means "gold" and the

fragrance has been around for a while but

for me it has not lost its charm.

The box is like a treasure chest.

I keep it in the box because the bottle in so long and thin,

it does not seem very stable to be in my dresser.
It just looks frail and I think it would probably fall and break.

The bottle has a gold matte plastic snake at the top

which can later one be used to keep your scarf in place.

ORO is an oriental perfume that lets everyone know you have arrived.

It is strong, feminine and lasts all day.

It's a perfume I can only imagine a Goddess wearing

So, it's kind of uplifting to wear, its almost like

spraying on confidence !

Puffy shirt

2012-01-20T09:38:00.000-05:00

If you are a Seinfeld fan like me, well the name puffy
is automatically linked to "The puffy shirt", the series' 66th episode.

Divide by H&M white shirt - Salt Works jeans - Me Too Red Heeled Loafers - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction
- Purple patent belt

In this episode Jerry, totally unaware, accepts to wear a white

pirate like, ruffly, puffy shirt (designed by a friend of Kramer's) for an

appearance on the Today Show.

This shirt reminds me of that episode....

I can't wait for today to be over.

They're having Seinfeld reruns all of this month on tv....

and guess who is watching ?

Be the change you wish to see in the world

2012-01-19T13:45:00.000-05:00

I wrote this post exactly 2 years ago and

never posted it...

"A lot of us have jobs or careers where we just don't make a difference
- impact wise in this world.

It's not like a decision you make will save the world
or a species from disappearing.

I still dream of that positive impact job -
of which I am far away from.

Early in life I wanted to be a teacher but I chose otherwise.

Lately I have been exploring the possibility of going back to school.

I called a nearby university and reviewed
their study plan for another MBA but this one is in Education.

I am checking my options money wise - meaning if I can afford it -

and also how available I will be to attend class due to my work travels.

I think that if I am able to do this, go back to school and get this degree,

I can fulfill this dream - and maybe in two years I could be teaching.

Hopefully then I can make an impact, a positive one.
While I wait to be able to make that impact,
here's what I wore today:"

Black skirt Durian- Black short sleeve jacket Rampage - Black suede shoes Moleca -
Michael Kors black bag - Gold button down shirt Odds and Evens - Vintage cameo brooch

So two years later.

I finally enrolled.

I have my first class today.

Vicky's baby shower

2012-01-18T08:55:00.002-05:00

Unlike many people out there I

actually enjoy going to baby showers.

Concepts Cape dress - Yellow clutch Suzy Lee -
Melissa red shoes- Christian Lay jewelry

You get to sit there and talk,

have good food and play games.

You laugh a lot and just have swell time.

God, I sound so lame.

Maybe I just don't go out enough...

Banana inspired

2012-01-17T12:13:00.000-05:00

It's actually a quite simple look,

inspired by a Banana Republic ad.

Just a pair of white trousers and a white jacket.

The part that called my attention was the white

flowers pinned on the blazer.

This is my version :)

White jacket ENC - Carven white trousers - Isaac Mizrahi for target top -
Zapatinho de Luxo beige flats - Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag

Happy Tuesday !

Camilla Belle inspired

2012-01-16T09:39:00.000-05:00

I was flipping through a May 2011 InStyle magazine

and saw that I had marked this page for inspiration.

It was Camilla Belle in a vivacious color block...

which in my head translated into this:

Orange trousers Sculpture - Purple top Speechless - Gold matte wrap belt H&M -
525 American Green cardigan - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction -
Innovativi wedges

If you had described this outfit to me a few years back

and told me that I would wear it, I would have laughed so hard...

yet I am wearing it today.

So much color makes me smile.

Extra large houndie

2012-01-15T20:47:00.000-05:00

Nothing like a carefree Sunday.

Forever 21 Black skirt - Houndstooth t shirt Go International for Target -
Black sandals Platanitos from Peru - Michael Kors black bag

Waking up early (against my own will),

eating home made waffles while reading the paper...

Having lunch with a friend and finally helping a few

canine friends try on sunglasses...

Meet Lana in an oversized number.

Vanilla and Jackie chose the same grey pair...carefree.

Houndie

2012-01-15T10:08:00.001-05:00

I like houndstooth so much, I might as well

give it a nickame.

Divided by H&M - Forever 21 black skirt - Franco Sarto red flats - Red bag Vic

Houndstooth is now Houndie.

Houndstooth saturday

2012-01-14T22:21:00.000-05:00

It´s not over.

Houndstooth week is still alive and kicking !

Houndstooth pin from Talbots

Black tank top - HAVE Houndstooth capris - Nine West flip flops - Michael Kors black bag

I was not really aware I had so many things with this print !

The Houndstoothians

2012-01-13T22:51:00.003-05:00

Imagine a world where everyone wears houndstooth...

Imagina un mundo en donde todos visten con el diseño de pata de gallo...

that world exists in the blogosphere !

ese mundo existe en la blogósfera !

Here are a few of its citizens: the Houndstoothians.

He aquí algunos de sus ciudadados: Los Patagalleros.

B* one of the pretty sisters behind Sisters and Dresses

B* una de las lindas hermanas detrás de Sisters y Dresses

V* the other sister behind of Sisters and Dresses also joined !

The houndstooth and stripes are spectacular.

V* la otra mitad de Sisters and Dresses también se sumó !

La pata de gallo y las rayas están espectaculares.

Another Houndstoothian is Mary from El Regreso de La Mary

Otra Patagallera es Mary de El Regreso de la Mary

Another citizen "Katha's" blog here

Otra de sus ciudadadas en Katha

And yours truly...

Y su servidora...

Thank you, your visa to Houndstoothland

has been approved !

Gracias, su visa a Patadegallolandia ha sido aprobada !

Houndstooth on houndstooth

2012-01-13T11:15:00.000-05:00

This week has been all about houndstooth.

SO why not wear houndstooth on houndstooth ?

Levis Jeans - Divided H&M houndstooth top - George black cardigan - Houndstooth scarf -
Michael Kors black bag - Beige flats Zapatinho de Luxo

Esta semana fué dedicada al diseño de pata de gallo.

Así que porqué no usar pata de gallo sobre pata de gallo ?

This houndstooth week I learned....

2012-01-12T14:57:00.000-05:00

This houndstooth week I learned that

houndstooth is very, very difficult to photograph.

Specially if you pictures are taken with a cel phone

(like me!)

Houndstooth capris HAVE - Black blouse Natural Exchange -

Red lips black sandals - Michael Kors black bag

Esta semana de pata de gallo aprendí que la pata de gallo es muy,

muy díficil de fotografear.

Especialmente si tomas las fotos con la cámara del celular como yo !

Are you wearing anything houndstooth ?

Houndstooth?

2012-01-11T10:22:00.001-05:00

This week is houndstooth week !

Black Durian skirt - Black short sleeve jacket Rampage - Charlotte Russe tube top - Kenneth Cole Reaction black wedges -
Black Michael Kors bag - Byn De Luxe Vintage watch pendant/pin - H&M headband

(in case you haven't noticed)

;)

I picked this patterned tube top, thinking it was houndstooth.

I think it is, well kind of - part of it.

Can we make it count ?

When looking for a brooch this morning, I remembered

a vintage watch that I've had for a couple of months.

It was a gift from my great aunt and while I had no idea

how to wear it - I thought adding a thin black ribbon to it

and pinning it to my jacket would work ...

And it did :)

So, anyone wearing houndstooth ?

Let me know !

I'll be doing a round up and would love to share your houndstooth.

Crow's feet

2012-01-10T09:35:00.001-05:00

Crow's feet... is another name commonly used for houndstooth pattern.

Do you have any garment in houndstooth ?

Care to wear it this week ?

I'll be doing a round up with all houndstoothers out there :)

H&M Houndstooth trousers - Forever 21 blue button down shirt -
Nine West Mary black Jane shoes - Black Michael Kors bag

Pata de gallo es uno de los nombres por el cual se le llama a este diseño.

Tienes alguna pieza en tu armario con este diseño ?

Porqué no te lo pones esta semana ?

Estaré haciendo un resumen con todos aquellos que participen :)

Aquí está B* de Sisters and Dresses miren qué guapa !

H o u n d s t o o t h

2012-01-09T11:57:00.000-05:00

Houndstooth...

My very first memory of houndstooth pattern was from a set of black
and white matching bed covers.

It was early 80's in my grandmother's house, in my aunts' bedroom.

I remember the fabric being rough and the pattern being extra large.

Do you recall when you saw this pattern first ?

Volar black pants - Divided H&M houndstooth top -
Red bag V - Red flats Franco Sarto

Pata de Gallo...

Mi primer recuerdo de la pata de gallo es de un juego de sobrecamas.

Eran los 80 en casa de mi abuela, en el cuarto de mis tías.

Recuerdo que la tela era sumamente gruesa y que la pata de gallo

era extra grande.

Recuerdas la primera vez que viste este diseño?

Houndstooth - Pata de gallo

2012-01-08T20:57:00.000-05:00

Houndstooth is a duotone textile pattern characterized by broken checks or abstract four-pointed shapes, often in black and white, although other colours are used.(so says Wikipedia)

Houndstooth print is one of my favorites.

It is apparently popular again, I thought I would take my

houndstooth items out for a spin, making this my houndstooth week.

Would you like to join ?

La pata de gallo es el dibujo bicolor de ciertos tejidos, caracterizado por la repetición de pequeñas figuras abstractas de cuatro puntas que se asemejan a cuadrados partidos. Los colores tradicionales son el negro y el blanco, aunque en la actualidad otros colores sustituyen al negro.
El estampado de pata de gallo ó diente de perro como también se le conoce
es uno de mis favoritos.
Aparentemente la pata de gallo se está usando nuevamente y pensé que sería buena idea sacar a la luz aquellas piezas que tengo con este estampado y así convertir esta semana en la semana de la pata de gallo.
Les gustaría participar ?

Too early

2012-01-07T21:44:00.000-05:00

I have absolutely no idea why

I was up on a Saturday at 7.30 am.

Volar black pants - Zebra print top Nina Firenze -
purple Kenneth Cole Reaction bag - Black Max & Co. flats

I guess it's the reason I felt sooo sleepy all day.

3 Wise Men

2012-01-06T09:54:00.004-05:00

When I was growing up, for us the holidays officially ended

on January 6th, the day of Three Wise Men.

Levi's jeans - white t shirt with knitted embellishments by Mojca - Eileen Fisher lavender cardigan
Purple flats American Eagle for Payless - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction

The 3 wise men or the 3 kings - as they are also known- arrived

Jesus' birthplace on this day and presented him with gifts of:

myrrh, gold and incense.

So, on January 6th children also receive gifts.

I remember that the day before the wise men "arrived", sometimes we

would go out and get dry grass.

We would then place it by our bedside so when

the camels the wise men rode on came,

they could get something to eat.

(nothing for Melchor, Gaspar or Balthazar!)

To this day I can actually remember waking up to scattered grass path that

went all the way to the entrance... meaning that the wise man had come and that the camels ate the grass and left some on their way out.

The joy to be a child !

My purchases in 2011

2012-01-05T17:30:00.001-05:00

Unlike the first 6 months of year 2010, when I did a self imposed shopping ban

in 2011 I decided to set myself free and not control my purchasing habits.

No limits, no restrains.

I chose not to control and just monitor.

So, I did.

Month by month when I bought something I

took note of how much I spent and what it was.

As you may or may not have noticed I spent very little on

each item. I make an effort to buy items when they are on sale

and I do not buy expensive labels.

So taking the above into consideration I thought I would

not spend that much.

But, then I started adding what I spent each month...

well I was quite surprised.

Here is the list of what I bought during the year:

19 dresses.

7 skirts

19 trousers (pants, jeans, shorts...)

Some pants had to be hemmed.

I did not consider that cost in the final number as it would

only make it more complicated.

44 tops (blazers, cardigans, shirts, tshirts...)

7 bags

16 pairs of shoes.

My total was 1,994.16 USD, which I honestly find outrageous.

Sure, some people spend that on a bag or a pair of shoes but

I am not one of those people.

So, after seeing the amount I spent and also seeing that

I have over thirty unworn garments with their tags on, I

decided to start a shopping ban.

It's not a new year's resolution, it's just my reaction.

Maybe I'll stop the shopping ban as soon as I wear all these items.

Maybe I will hold the ban for 6 months.

Maybe I'll just replace items or do the one garment in-one garment out method.

Maybe I'll set a budget.

At this point I am just glad that I am aware.

When you are aware of something you can act upon it.

I am no longer in the dark in regards to my shopping habits.

I have seen the light :)

My 2011 closet edits

2012-01-05T16:00:00.000-05:00

I originally started my "Closet Edit" posts sometime

in mid 2010.

Unlike many people I know who sit down once a year

and just turn their closet upside down and at the end have

6 black trash bags full of goodies...

Well, I do it every month.

Just a few pieces at a time.

I continue giving clothes a chance and usually wear them one last time before letting go.
Turns out this has allowed me to experience some hideous outfits
which end up convincing me that they garment has to go.

It`s 2012 and I thought I'd look back at what left my closet in 2011:

I got rid of 25 pairs of shoes.

I gave away 25 tops

(this includes t shirts, tanks, button downs, jackets, cardigans..)

11 bottoms (shorts, bermudas, jeans, trousers)

3 Belts left my closet.

7 Bags found a new home.

4 dresses

Various accessories: pendants, necklaces, earrings

I have no regrets (so far!) of the clothes, shoes, accessories that I have let go.

I plan to continue editing.

So, tell me about your edits...

Animal zipped

2012-01-05T09:46:00.000-05:00

I had been waiting to wear this top since

I bought it a few weeks ago.

Style & Co. brown jeans - Da Moda animal print to -

Purple bag Kenneth Cole -Red Zipper heels Twenty One.

The funny thing is I have no idea what was holding me back.

Printed pants

2012-01-04T11:05:00.054-05:00

I was flipping through the May 2011 issue of

InStyle magazine and came across the answer to a
question that had me scratching my head for sometime:
How to wear printed pants.
I bought a pair of printed black and white pants
in August and even though I have worn them several times
I don´t think I have worn them totally convinced of the look.

So, I did 3 of the suggested things:

1. Wear them at ankle length
2. Wear with nude heels
3. Wear with a tshirt

Wild girl printed trousers - White t shirt Milky Way jeans - Black cardigan George -
Beige peep toe pumps Fergalicious - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction - Brass magnifying glass pendant

Honestly speaking, it did not turn out as I expected.

Hopefully I will eventually wear them in a way that I will totally love,

in the meantime I will keep on trying !

December Purchases

2012-01-03T21:00:00.000-05:00

In December we are usually busy.

Busy running around and shopping for gifts.

Usually in the midst of it all, you find gifts for youself,

much like I did.

Here are my december gifts for me:

These houndstooth H&M trousers are actually from November but I had forgotten to include them, I loved the fit for 34.95 USD.

Horses, horseshoe, Peter Pan collar all in one top ?

Yes, an equestrian top from Via Vai for 21.95 USD seemed reasonable.

Yet another animal print item.

I have acquired a special love for them as they always take your

outfit to the next level.

This animal print top by Da Moda seemed perfect

for 7.99 USD, don't you think ?

I know I do not need another black top.

But this one won my heart at the sleeves and then the buttons in the back !

Black top by April Lost for 33.00 USD

Wool sweater for when I travel, on sale at Mango for 27.00 USD.

A blue "klein" dress also from the MANGO sale for 35.00 USD.

My December purchases including taxes added up to 104.74 USD.

Which is not bad - I could have done worst.

How about you ?

Did you "gift yourself" for the holidays ?

On posting

2012-01-03T13:37:00.024-05:00

On this 3rd day of the year

I am having certain issues with posting my

pictures on the blog.

Red and white Chadwicks dress - Purple Kenneth Cole Reaction bag
Tsubo yellow peep toe pumps

Would you be so kind and let me know if you can see them (just 2) ?

and while you are at it:

Would you also let me know if you'd keep this dress ?

As you know I just continue editing the closet.

How

2012-01-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

How was your first day of the year ?

Brown dress Esley- Suzy Lee yellow clutch -
Beige pumps Fergalicious

Mine was spent in my pijamas, watching tv,

eating everything and anything in my fridge...

which was not a nice sight.

So instead I give you New Year's eve pictures :)

The last day of 2011

2011-12-31T20:08:00.000-05:00

If it´s the last day of 2011 -

it can only mean we are hours away from a new year.

Volar dress - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction - Jean flats Exclusive!

We tend to make resolutions on this day,

make lists and plans for the next year.

I shy away from these things, mostly because I don´t want to be

disappointed at what I did not accomplish.

However, this last day of 2011 I'd like to forget...

There are 5 things worth forgetting for 2012:

1. Offenses

2. Lies

3. Betrayals

4. Rudeness

5. Imprudence

Remember that you will not be hurt by those who want to hurt you.
But, by those who you allow to hurt you.

May 2012 be an honest year for you and I.

Shallow busy

2011-12-30T21:26:00.003-05:00

I have been busy on my vacation days.

Levis Jeans - Tommy Hilfiger fuchsia top -
Yellow bag Arena Milano - Beige flats Zapatinho de Luxo

Shallow busy as going to two different Zaras

looking for blue suede mocassins.

(btw I didn't find them)

Isn't that what vacations are for ?

Singer

2011-12-29T18:36:00.000-05:00

Don´t worry this post does not have a link to a video

where you hear me sing.

Actually, I can´t sing.

Mossimo ripped jeans - Arena Milano yellow bag - Purple top Speechless - beige wedges

The SINGER I refer to in the post tittle is a sewing machine.

A Singer sewing machine that use to be my great grandmother´s,

then my grandfather´s and now mine.

Since I am on vacation I have been doing some stuff I had pending.

One of them was find an experienced repairman who could

take a look at my Singer model 216.

Here, anything old that does not work is considered trash and thrown away,
so finding a repair man for old sewing machines, victrolas and such is difficult.

However, to my own surprise, I did find someone to look
at my Singer 216: an 80 year old retired Singer specialist called Julian Marquez,

whom I spent half of my day with.

While he is not finished yet with my sewing machine,

I have high hopes.

Maybe after it's working, I can fix my torn jeans :)

Time

2011-12-28T14:35:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of vacation days

that need to be used up.

Talbots jeans - Carole Little white blouse - Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag -
Nine West gold flats- Hourglass pendant

When I say a lot, it`s more like almost 70 days.

So, I have some time on my hands.

Get it ? "time on my hands"....

So, I am taking a a few days off work.

It feels so good to have "nothing" to do -

well, actually I have been quite busy.

Gifts

2011-12-27T16:55:00.003-05:00

As you know this is a season of giving.

Giving gifts.

Gifts that you may like - or not.

Brown Rafaella capri trousers - Brown Coach wedges - Energie white top - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction

The question is what do you dou with those gifts you don't like ?

Choose between below options:

1. Do you run out to exchange them ?

2. Do you regift ?

3. Do you use them even if you don't like them that much ?

4. Others.

In my case, I use to be 100% number 3:

Use them even if I did not love them.

This is for all gifts received for Christmas, birthdays or any other ocassion.

I felt it was rude and non appropriate to return or pass on a gift.

I would usually wear it anyways and also would try to wear it

if you were the gifter and you were around as a way of

reinforcing that I did like it.

Antiqued Gold crackle nail polish by Sally Hansen worn over black nail polish.

And that is the story of how I ended up with ill fitting garments in my closet.

Many of which I am getting the guts to get rid off now.

These days I am more number one and two:

I exchange and regift totally guilt free.

Let me tell you, its totally liberating...

SO, tell me - how about you ?

Relaxed

2011-12-26T23:05:00.000-05:00

I met with friends today and

for a moment forgot about everything

and was totally relaxed...

I guess it shows.

Black and white Wild Girl trousers - Da Moda black tank top - Michael Kors bag -
Michael Kors zipper flats - Chair pendant Forever 21

I'm wearing the same clothes as they day before !

December Editing

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

Even though its a crazy month, there is always time for a closet edit.

If you take a quick glance at your closet you will always find something that needs to go... like these:

Calvin Klein grey, cream and black wedges: Not comfortable and they're scuffed.

Christian Siriano for Payless brown heels: the thin brown material began to peel off and then the sole came apart from the shoe. It is a true shame because these shoes are awesome.

Well, were awesome.

I also let go of my white sandals by Ettiene Aigner.

I remember when I got these about 5 years ago in Virginia.

At first I felt a little like a nurse in white shoes and then they grew on me and I got a lot of wear out of them until I decided that they were scuffed and I really don't wear them anymore.

I also let go of 2 black bags..

My Roberto Cavalli bag: it began to fall apart.

Black patent bag from Neiman Marcus: it was overworked and the bottom was scuffed.

Grey black Croquet Club capris / pedal pushers: Cut me off in the wrong place

and I have only worn them twice in almost 3 years.

Nathalie B. pink striped capri / pedal pusher blazer suit.

There are several reasons I am letting go of this suit:

1. The bottom is low cut.

2. They hit my leg in an odd place - I already had them altered and

they still didn't work.

3. The stitching on the back of the blazer stretched and then tore.

4. Only worn twice in almost 3 years.

My colorful animal print also took a hike.

Worn once in three years, makes no sense to keep this

Essentials by Milano top.

Certainly hope that someone can get a lot more wear from it !

My white button down shirt by Ketchup.

I adore this shirt, have worn in on the blog at least six times.

But keeping whites white is not simple and this white

button down is no exception.

The collar area seemed to be stained, I am guessing from perfume...

so and I am just letting go.

Also worn about 6 times on this blog, is my Luciano Dante bow top.

It's another item I also love but the fabric has thinned out and the

elastic at the waist has lost its grip - so off it goes.

So, how about you ?

Have you done any closet edits in December ?

Christmas Day

2011-12-24T22:30:00.000-05:00

Imagine going into a toy store on the morning of

December 24th...

Printed trousers Wild Girl - Black tank Da Moda -

White sandals Etienne Aigner - Michael Kors black tote

That's how late I was with my shopping however...
I made it out alive for Christmas Eve.

<><>

Forever 21 blue lace dress - blue shoes Dani Black - Yellow bag Suzie Lee

Happy Holidays !

Too much ?

2011-12-23T09:42:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I was in line at the store waiting for
the cashier to ring up a pair of shoes.

Standing in front of me was this good looking
woman talking on her cel phone.

Talbot jeans - Ketchup white button down shirt - Vest Bluenotes - Franco Sarto red studded flats -
Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag

As I patiently waited for my turn, I look at her

and all my eyes catch are brand names.

This pretty woman was like a Christmas tree

that had brands hanging on her branches !

She was standing tall in

a pair of Jimmy Choos, Tory Burch sunglasses

and carrying a Pandora paperbag.

With her arm bearing Tiffany bracelet she searched inside

her Salvatore Ferragamo bag and pulled out a Tory Burch wallet.

AND that is only what I could read that was branded.
Yes, I am nosy, get over that, but,
just how much is too much when it comes to
wearing so many branded items together ?

Christmas wish list

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

It's

once again

that time of the

year: Christmas.

Although the real meaning of

it is not the gifts - well, in our materialistic

society it's one of the first things we think of.

Gifts!

And in that train of thought here's my list of

gifts, goodies I could not live without and which

I look forward to finding under my non existent tree.

***

1. Justin Bieber toothbrush.

It SINGS.

2. The Carolina Herrera pacifier and pacifier leather case.

Yes, I am one classy baby.

Image from K magazine

3. A good cookie recipe BUT most important a Fetus Cookie Cutter.

I don't think I could eat them but I could bake away... forever !

Product Via

4. An elegant perfume - the smell of "class" in a bottle.

Look no further: Snooki and JWOWW, my dream come true.

Snooki perfume image via

5. The Ugly Christmas sweater.
No Christmas would be the same without it.

Image via

6. MANFRIEND via Etsy

For those lonely moments when I need a manfriend to talk to.

Funny thing, his name is Ray.

Now, seriously....

I'd like to know what is on your wish list this year ?

Crackled

2011-12-22T15:22:00.000-05:00

Nails have become a form of expression

that cannot be ignored.

I love having nails that stand out.

So when I came across Sally Hansen's Crackle overcoat in

Antiqued Gold for about 8.00 USD at CVS,

well I knew I had to buy it -and I did.

Happens I had seen the crackled polishes in many blogs and

magazines including InSTYLE and I had to try it.

I was going to go black - but then the cheery red of the

season came over me and I ended up with Golden Santa nails.

Plus, its so simple: a coat or two of your favorite polish. Let dry for about 2 minutes and just add one thick coat of Crackle overcoat. That's it !

I love the fact that this Crackle Overcoat dries fast.

You can have salon looking nails with very little effort and combinations

are endless !

So, have you crackled ?

Screw

2011-12-22T09:58:00.003-05:00

What screws us up most in life is the picture in our head
of how it's supposed to be.

Colorful animal print top Essentials by Milano - Style & Co. brown jeans -
Christian Siriano for Payless brown heels - Purple Kenneth Cole Reaction bag

Then comes another question:

How is it supposed to be ?

According to who ?

High waters

2011-12-21T11:40:00.001-05:00

"High waters, pedal pushers, capris"

I have been trying to wear them these

last couple of days and trying to

make them look good.

It´s been difficult. Really.

Nathalie B. pink striped capri suit - NY Collection beige button down shirt -
Zapatinho de luxo beige flats - Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag

Sometime ago I read that they were not flattering on us little people.

I have received comments on this blog about how I should maybe consider

not wearing them and just yesterday my dearest Drollgirl pointed out that Tim Gunn had made a stand against them a while back.

So I pulled this suit this morning, worn last over a year ago ...

Only to convince myself that Tim Gunn was right.

Six keys

2011-12-20T14:25:00.000-05:00

When I saw this picture all I could think of
(besides being really early and only wearing lipstick)
was the fact that I was holding a bunch of keys.
A messy bunch of keys.

Be-Bop black and white dress - Kenneth Cole Reaction black wedges - Michael Kors black tote

So I counted: 6 keys.

Red cardigan by 52 weekends

These six keys belong to:

1. My car

2. My office

3. Apartment building main entrance

4. My apartment

5. My grandmother's apartment

6. I have no idea....

I have absolutely no idea what the 6th key is for....

How about you ?

How many keys are you carrying around ?

Any "mystery keys" ?

Capris or Pedal Pushers ?

2011-12-19T10:02:00.000-05:00

What's a capri ?

According to the Free Dictionary:

Tight-fitting, calf-length women's pants, often having a slit on the outside of the leg bottoms.

I thought these were capris, but I guess they are not.

They are not totally tight fitting and the don't have a slit on the outside of the leg bottoms.

So, maybe they are actually pedal pushers, which according to the Free Dictionary are:

pedal pushers

Calf-length slacks worn by women and girls.

[From their originally being worn by bicyclists.]

Black - grey capris Croquet Club -

Luciano Dante Bow top - White Da Moda white button down shirt - Black sweater Rafaella - Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag - Red flats - Black wedges Kenneth Cole Reaction

So, I think they are pedal pushers....

What do you call them ?

Last weekend

2011-12-17T08:48:00.001-05:00

It´s THAT last weekend before Christmas.

Everyone is out shopping...

Brown carpri My Michelle - Bronze sequined top Forever 21- Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction - Nine West flip flops

Traffic is crazy, people are impatient and I just want it to be over.

Have you done all your Christmas shopping ?

Not me. Certainly does not look like me.

Sneakers

2011-12-16T09:36:00.000-05:00

I am not a sneakers person.

I don't like tennis shoes.

Talbots jeans - Tommy Hilfiger striped sweater - SOHO Lab by Skechers -
Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag

I think they are meant for exercise not for everyday wear.

Not even commutes. There are comfortable shoes out

there that don't make you look like an astronaut.

Even though I dislike them, I have a pair or actually two.

AND I wore them today...

what are your thoughts on sneakers ?

Color !

2011-12-15T10:09:00.000-05:00

Color and I did not become friends until recently.

Structure blue trousers - Vintage rainbow top Nancy Brunetz - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction
H&M Belt - American Eagle Payless purple shoes

I shied away from it because when you wear color people usually look twice and for most of my life I have wanted to go by unnoticed.

But, not today.

Today I want to wear color.

Today I want to shine.

Brown

2011-12-14T14:11:00.000-05:00

Just brown with a hint of purple.

Nothing else.

Style & Co. brown jeans - Brown sequined t shirt Forever 21 -
Kenneth Cole brown sandals - Kenneth Cole Reaction purple bag

When I have too much on my plate it´s kind of difficult

to think straight.

It's like my thoughts are unorganized and are just everywhere.

Purple hearts set

They are all scattered and I don´t know where to begin.

It´s one of those days.

Basic

2011-12-13T11:21:00.000-05:00

Today I went with my very basics.

Things that everyone has in their closet:

A pair of jeans, a white button down and a beige cardigan.

Levis Jeans - White button down shirt Angel - Forever 21 beige cardigan -
American Eagle for Payless purple flats - Purple bag Kenneth Cole Reaction

The funny thing is these are the items I'd like to stay

away from - as they could easily become uniforms.

I dread uniforms. I dread running into someone who

is wearing the same thing I am.

Turquoise vintage pendant

But today it was more about getting out of the house fast

and being on time.

I guess we have to make some sacrifices now and then -

if all were only this simple.

Graphic stripes

2011-12-12T11:51:00.000-05:00

I love getting quirky things done to my nails.

My manicurist is already use to it.

So, it was no surprise to her when I showed up with May 2011's In Style magazine and a white

nail art pen and told her I

wanted blue, black and white nails.

While the white line is not so perfect, I absolutely love the effect !

3 cups

2011-12-12T10:24:00.000-05:00

That's how many cups I needed today
to get my engine started ....
3 cups of coffee !

Black sweater Joseph A. - Forever 21 trousers - Calvin Klein wedges - Roberto Cavalli black tote bag

And it´s only Monday.

Toucan and squirrel !

2011-12-11T08:38:00.000-05:00

I live in a city.

A city that loses a couple of trees each day

and where none are replanted.

You can imagine my surprise

when I was about to take my picture, I look

up and see a toucan.

A toucan in the city !

Tommy Hilfiger jean shorts - Hang Ten white t shirt -
Forever 21 beige cardigan - Wedges Payless - Roberto Cavalli black tote

Yep, that's my "I am amazed look" -

so, as I am trying to get a picture of the toucan I see

a squirrel !

A squirrel in my city ?!

While the toucan did get away...

at least I got a bad picture

of Mr. Squirrel.

After this, all I can say is Happy Sunday !

Sheila's tube top

2011-12-10T08:23:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I got a few
things in the mail - they were from Sheila of Ephemera
and today I took one of them for a ride !

Levis Jeans - Green Ralph Lauren tube top - Nine West flip flops - Roberto Cavalli black tote -

The best part of it is that I can wear it all year long,

because here it's summer all year long...

Thank you Sheila !

Reading

2011-12-09T18:12:00.000-05:00

I use to read a lot.

Well, at least a lot more than I do now.

Red jeans Old Navy Sweetheart - Striped sweater Tommy Hilfiger -
Black flats Michael Kors -Black tote Roberto Cavalli

Anyways, a few days ago I was trying to clean out my email inbox

and came across an email that had a book in a pdf file.

The book:"The Women Men Adore and Never Want to Leave" by Bob Grant.

So, 38 pages into it I read something that makes me stop.

Makes me think.

This is what made me stop. And think.

"Impulses feel just like feelings, but there is one major

difference. Impulses spike very high and give you the impres-

sion that you have to obey them. They feel overpowering and

seem convincing and true. Feelings generally build gradually.

What separates the two is that impulses will die down within a

few hours or days. Feelings remain, until we do something

about them.

Yum. Food for the brain.

Compliments

2011-12-08T09:33:00.001-05:00

"Compliments are God's reminder

of what he thinks of you ..."

Red jeans Old Navy Sweetheart - Black tank - H&M Black Kimono - Black belt H&M -
Michael Kors black flats - Roberto Cavalli black tote

Did you know that for every compliment you

actually receive, there are several people that actually think

the same ?

Give a compliment today :)