Pieces From Audrey

NYE

2012-01-19T11:37:00.002-07:00

Yeah, yeah - it's almost the end of January but I thought I'd share this pic from new years. Personally, I think my vintage silver accordion dress was BANGIN' & that I must share. Here's the most depressing part - it's my mum's & Judith does not like to share. So it was a one night only kinda dress & I think I really made the most of it - but you decide. (also, how amazing is that wall paper? Our friends have the coolest retro house)

Happy January!

P.S - Im really sorry for the last picture to my friend who is in it with me (not the Canadian goose I am riding) & most likely extremely embarrassed. I couldn't resist - it's the best photo EVER.

STREET PHOTOGRAPHY IS MESSING WITH ME

2011-11-06T15:08:00.001-07:00

Read this on the STOP IT RIGHT NOW blog. Jayne's funny.... it also doesn't hurt that her style is so unique & her photo shop skills are so impressive.

STREET PHOTOGRAPHY IS MESSING WITH ME

Written by Chelsea Fagan

No, but seriously, though — what the hell are they doing? What are those scraggly little hipsters with the Scott Schuman tattoos on their chests running around my city with the bowling-ball sized cameras and complete disregard for traffic patterns doing? Paris is officially 67 percent fashion photographers at this point, they are relegated to photographing cats and recycling bins for the most part. They must be staying to mess with me specifically. They have to be. Well, if not, then one of them, or perhaps one of you, needs to answer my very valid, reasonable questions:

Why won’t they admit that they clearly only photograph models? I thought the point of street fashion was to take pictures of people that don’t look exactly like everyone you see in every magazine ever — when did that turn into “Oh, this model’s late for a casting call — better get a few shots of her while she’s on her way?” If I had a dollar for every person on these sites that wasn’t 6’1”, 110 pounds, and fucking beautiful — I would have, like, three dollars max.
What the hell are these people doing? I’m sorry, but a 50-year-old Asian man wearing a Paul Smith suit, a denim jacket, a mink stole, a Louis Vuitton backpack, Air Force Ones, and shutter shades — WHERE IS HE GOING? Does he work at an accounting firm run by Kanye West and a 10-year-old girl? Is he late for an appointment with Willy Wonka at the World Bank? Seriously, this man had one thing and one thing alone on his agenda that day: Stand awkwardly on the corner of the street, smoke a cigarette, and wait for people to come take his picture.
Where do people buy these absurd, absurd clothes? I know that a lot of it is more like moving art installations than actual clothes, but you take a picture of a chick wearing a floor-length ball gown made entirely out of Nerds Ropes and you don’t offer any explanation — like, sure, we’re all just supposed to nod along with great dignity and appreciation for art as we ignore the fact that she’s walking around an actual city in modern civilization wearing a bra shaped like a dolphin. Right, okay.
What do people wear if they don’t have a billion dollars at their disposal? You cannot deny that 70 percent of street fashion photography is now just the most amazing, expensive, creme de la creme stuff available. It’s not like they ever just take a picture of some girl wearing an H&M cardigan in a smart, interesting way — street fashion photography essentially just shows you all the fabulous, absurdist ways you can carry that new Fendi clutch! With that Vera Wang wedding dress and coat made out of an animal only rich people know about — duh!
Why are there only two options — extremely put together and classy, or crust punk covered with scabs and rubber bands? Apparently the only alternative to being a rich fasionista, if you want to get on style blogs, is to just stop showering for a few months and wear the same plaid shirt every day. You’re “edgy”? And “edgy” is “fashionable”?
Where do you find these people? I walk around Paris every day — every single day — and have never once seen a woman running to catch a train while wearing an evening gown with a Hefty bag shawl and a pair of cowboy boots. I want to know where you’re finding them — is there just a farm of impeccably dressed, charming, smoking older men in semi-matching suits? Can I go to this farm?
Why do you insist on taking pictures of size-6 women and referring to them as “curvy?” Come on, bro, that shit is so patronizing. “Look, we’re including you, too, fatties!! <3″
How do you find sexy, impeccably dressed older people riding scooters? Where is that secret community? The day I see an older woman in five-inch heels and a floor-length skirt strap on a pink helmet and go putting around the Concorde, I will get “FASHION 4 LYFE” tattooed on my forehead. Stop just blatantly paying well-dressed older people to do fun-looking stuff. We know what their actual hobby here is — sitting outside at cafes and looking at passerby with the hatred of Dante’s Inferno.

via Joelle Van Dyne

I dig.

2011-10-11T20:27:00.004-06:00

Rolla Rolla Rolla Rolla.

....TIBI Show... continued

2011-10-06T12:23:00.000-06:00

So I left you with a rare thing, a verbal diarrhea of my thoughts - more words than I have ever typed on this here blog. Sorry about that. It probably wont happen again... or perhaps it will? I'm trying to find a way to like blogging- I'm playing with the idea of honesty & not being a boring "check out my outfit" kinda blogger. It wasn't really me. If you know me, you'd know taking myself seriously is not something I do very easily. Therefore, standing around looking smug in heels is a hard thing for me.

Anyway, onward. Right. Fashion Week. Well, I eventually went to 2 shows. The first being TIBI, which was a dream. It was at Lincoln Center (I'm not Americanizing, it's just how they spell it, OK?!) on a runway, a shiny shiny runway. It was legit. It was exciting. It was lucky we are friends with Natalie, the TIBI representative & she likes us enough to get us tickets. Sweet.

WHAT DID I WEAR, you ask?

dress:Vintage Altered/ shoes: Steve Madden Cork Platforms

Well, a badass crazy dress of course! I saw this guy in a great vintage shop in Phoenix last winter. When I found it was the floor length trippy fabric that called to me. It had gold woven through the pattern of turquoise, blue & yellow. It didnt just call to me, it fucking screamed at me. I tried it on & automatically knew the woman who wore it before me. If you've ever seen the movie "The Party" from the 1960's you know who I am talking about. The rich lady who host's dinner parties and wanders around looking fabulous in floor length jazzy fabric. I loved the pattern & fabric, but hated the lack of skin showing (full length sleeves & floor length?!) it was like a shroud of psychedelic polyester covering my entire short body. After 2 trips to the tailor & 1 near disastrous altering (way too short, my ass was literally hanging out) it finally went from a cool dress, to a dream dress. Hell, it was so good even a photographer took a picture of me outside of the show. As seen on Marieclaire - picture 47

I look really angry, despite how cute my dress is. I told you I have a hard time with these sort of pictures. In fact, I believe the photographer's caption was "print, with attitude". Christ. Embarrassing. Also, I'd say this is not my most flattering angle, oh well... LOOK MA, IM FAMOUS!

Shall we get to what you really care about, THE TIBI SHOW

It was styled by Kling, one of my fav. bloggers of the moment. Love her paired down style. Show was perfect - most memorable being the amazing box pleating on the palazzo pants - just wait till next Spring. It was dope. Trust.

I'll leave you with this little tid bit from "The Party" (it was a little bit racist, as were most things back in the 60's - sorry)

You're Welcome

2011-10-01T16:08:00.002-06:00

This song was introduced to me a few weeks ago from my friend Jeremy. I think I have single handedly given it 1000 hits to the view count. The video is so mesmerizing and to top it off the song itself is fantastic with some great lyrics.

Enjoy!

NYFW, ETC. (part 1)

2011-09-29T10:30:00.000-06:00

Thanks, Steve. You're a real pal

The world is now on Paris Fashion Week, so to say I'm a bit delayed on this post is truthful - but could be worse... it could be November? Ahem.

Anyway, despite this being my second Fashion week experience since I moved to New York (it's almost been a year! Gah!) I would say this one was the most LEGIT. It all began with some very grand plans for Fashion's Night Out party jumping. FNO is the kick off to Fashion Week, it's basically how the retailers have involvement; all the shops & flag ship locations host parties (think drinks, DJ's, prizes & discounts) around the city. I was already wandering the streets of SOHO at this point, so I managed to hop into a Steven Madden on my way to the subway. Aside: I have gained this new found respect for Steve Madden. Perhaps it's my poverty speaking, or just the general expense of, frankly, everything in this city, but his shoes are actually pretty fantastic. I spotted these great cork bottom brown leather chunky platform sandals in the back rack. They were cute. They weren't black *gasp*. They were TWENTY DOLLARS! Fuck yes, thank you very much Steve (we are on first name basis now) and thank you FNO.

Next stop was to be another party at Aritzia (I also consider us really good friends after my photo made it onto their blog & email. Yeah Besties!) and then off to Burberry to see my friend, Marlaice, and then end the eve at the GANT Rugger Nolita store (girlfriend points). Now, dont get too excited - I got a call when leaving "Steve's" that the house guests we had were locked out of the house & I had to head back to Brooklyn to let them in. My bubble was deflated. How depressing. I knew I would never make it back in time. All I could think of was the disappointment I was betrothing on my gal, Aritzia - she needed me! Western Canadians are few & far here in New York - we gotta stick together! By the time we made it back into the city it was sheer mayhem. I have never seen so many people on the streets. Police yelling, people in huge, uncomfortable shoes pushing each other. 1000's of people slowly shuffling down Broadway, metal gates all down the sidewalks to enforce New Yorkers favourite past time, jay walking. Turns out all these people were just the result of F.N.O ending & releasing a bijillion people onto the streets fired up from discounts & alcohol - a sort of Fashion Fuelled riot.

We slowly floated through the masses to the GANT Rugger store on Prince & Mott - only to find out the party's over. Sorry, folks. A bunch of blogger girls were flaunting their shit all over the street. Flashes going off, smiles being hidden. It was like being an anthropologist in a field study. These were the serious bloggers - I read their blogs like a religion. They are my gods. Surprisingly, they didnt look any different or more stylish than any other girl I saw wandering around New York in high heels & a short dress in the past year. I think the internet does that too people. It's like a magnifying glass. It's like "Hey, I know I look good. Don't I look good?" and I'm all "Yeah. Yeah you do" and then all of a sudden they are the voice of fashion. I'm not complaining, I try to do that, I guess - but I just suck at it. I have a hard time thinking I am awesome enough to deserve anyone taking me as some sort of Fashion expert. Not to mention, I actually hate having my picture taken. I feel fucking awkward. I too don't smile, because I look like a moron when I do. HEY GUYS, IM SO HAPPY THIS PIC. IS BEING TAKEN. It's a giant lie. Im not happy, Im terrified, Im thinking about whether my chin is down & my hair isnt stuck to my lip gloss. Can you see my shoes? How about my jewelry? It's ridiculous. My look for photos is that of terror & anxiety.

Jesus, this post is loooong. I havent even gotten to the Fashion Show Part. Ok. This post will be in instalments. Sorry folks. This shit is exhausting.

NYC Summers

2011-07-18T10:22:00.000-06:00

I'm going home to Canada for a month on Wednesday. I'm super excited to see my family and escape out to the country and quiet for a few weeks. So far, when I look back at my pictures, I'd say I have had a pretty fantastic summer! So many beach days, so many free summer concerts & street festivals - so many visitors & wild nights. I'm excited for my upcoming Canadian summer adventures & insta-shots!

On The Way Out

2011-07-15T08:30:00.002-06:00

dress:FreePeople/necklace:Millicent/bag:UrsaMinor/clogs:EpauletByUggelbo/sunnies:GantRugger

Just me running out the door to meet R. in Soho (and my messy studio space -ahem)!

Wild Heart

2011-07-14T10:52:00.001-06:00

I found this a while back, and just re-watched it.
I just cant help but smile....

yay summer!

2011-07-11T08:18:00.000-06:00

Being a model is sooooo hard.

Regardless, whatever they are selling, I am buying.

Braids & Black Silk

2011-07-04T08:30:00.001-06:00

dress:aritzia/necklace:millicent/bag:ursaminor

Hey gang, it's been a while!

This is a pretty typical look for me. Black silk & my favourite necklace & the perfect little bag. I got this AMAZING silk dress at our very own and very Canadian shop, Aritzia. The new SOHO location is absolutely stunning - they really pulled out all the stops when they were designing the space. I was elated when I saw the signs of "Opening Soon" on the windows - I really must say I kept thinking to myself how I must visit the Aritzia shop when I was back in Canada, because I actually missed their clothing so much. My wish was answered and I went into the shop on the opening day & picked up this dress. Love it.

Oh, and lookie who showed up in the Aritzia email & blog?... it's me! This is how the celebrities must feel like, totally paparazzied!

Thanks to Lindsey for having that keen eye and noticing me! I actually did get this email in my inbox and scanned it quickly, not even noticing myself in it. I have always thought of myself as someone who pays attention to details, but apparently I am wrong.

IN OTHER NEWS!

I'm super excited about this, you guys.... I FINALLY OPENED MY ETSY SHOP! It's been a long time in the making, but I did it! I must say I'm quite proud of myself. I cannot explain how hard it is designing something and then putting your baby out in the public despite fears of no one liking it. I have a lot of moments of "Oh man, I am a weirdo. Is this actually nice? Will anyone get it?" and the answer might be "No", but then again, it might be "Yes" or "Maybe" so I need to just take the chance, right? RIGHT!

Anyway, here's my store! Yay! Clickity!

Hope you all had a great Canada Day or July 4th long weekend! I spent my Canada Day driving 8 hours in thick traffic to the Canadian border to apply for an extension on my visa so I could stay longer in this fine Country. After much explaining (nothing is ever easy at border control) I'm good to go for a full year! Hurrah! Really was a great weekend for me!

Newly new

2011-06-21T08:13:00.000-06:00

I posted some more pictures of the new styles I've been working on for Millicent on the jewelry blog. Check it --> CLICKITY CLICK

Instagram Shots, The Arizona Edition

2011-06-02T09:39:00.002-06:00

I was in the desert a while back hanging out with my grandpa. It was a fantastic vacation (I saw Arcade Fire & Black Keys!!), and a must needed time to soak up the rays while New York was under a raincloud (things have since changed, dramatically! It's freaking hot and humid now. AC is my new boyfriend - sorry environment)

Anyway, here's my Desert photo diary. Isn't this even more fun than me actually putting up outfit posts? heh? No? I promise, one day I will gather my wits and start up again... baby steps ok?

Im shutting up, here's some photos (or, you could just follow me on Instagram) -->

Poolside

$30 Jeffery Campbell Charlie Clogs, Nordstrom Rack (!!!)

Sunshine!

New Jewels - pyrite, black diamond rondelles & opal crystals (Millicent)

Rings! (copper heart & opal encrusted gecko that I made)

G-pa & I at the pool

I heart Target Bathingsuits

G-pa enjoys the sunset

love letters at the gym

In & Out Burger (DELICIOUS)

Desert Blooms

Stacked Hematite & Cooper Rings (Millicent)

Busy Bee, New styles I churned out (Millicent)

Orange Ombre Nails, one should never have to decide on one colour - stolen polish from Alyson

Orange Tree Offerings

Alyson pumping the gas (backwards)

My pool pal

Arcade Fire! (uhhhh-mazing!)

New Post!

2011-05-04T08:45:00.001-06:00

Jewelry has been swarming my mind for a while now, so I finally put up a new post at M I L L I C E N T to show you all what I have been up. It's just a little sneak peak until I get my ETSY store up and running.

NY Snaps

2011-03-03T09:12:00.001-07:00

Found trapped in the depths of my & R's Iphone... sorry the quality is less than.

Reminder: Need bigger bag to accommodate DSLR camera.
Reminder to Reminder: Do not need more reasons to go shopping.

Chris Benz

2011-02-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

Loving these looks from Chris Benz FW 2011. Thus far, this line is speaking the loudest to me of all the NYFW photos I have seen. The dresses! The Hats! The Pants! (I hate to say I told you so, but let's just remember one of my first Blog posts about how I was searching for Bell Bottoms?... not so hard now. SO HAPPY!)

Idol Worship

2011-02-20T20:47:00.000-07:00

A scented mist swirls around your feet, and a soft light falls on your face from a Tiffany lamp shrouded in a silk scarf. A doleful piano plays, a cockatoo flies past, and Stevie Nicks appears - a vision in velvet and cobwebbed lace, teetering atop a suede platform. She wants you to join her on her crusade against the mundane, against matte fabrics and blow-dried hair! Place a top hat upon your medieval mane and be done with it! Join her! Join US! Stand back (stand back), for Stevie will not be stopped by your minimal look and flat shoes!

—by Jack Sunnucks

Fantastic quote. Every time I feel lost I ask if Stevie would wear this, if the answer is yes, then it's a good thing.

The Favourites

2011-02-20T08:21:00.003-07:00

I don't think I have mentioned much about my love of photography. Now, I would hardly call myself an expert in the subject - but the medium really catches my eye. Growing up I used to take a lot of road trips in and around Alberta and British Colombia and I remember feeling frustrated at all the beautiful things I could see, but not capture. Every amazing mountain scape would be described through the lens in my mind. I wanted to take photos. I asked for an SLR for every birthday and christmas for about 6 years, nothing ever came. Finally, last year Ryan bought himself a Nikon and I took it over. Yes!

Recently, I started becoming more active on my Pintrest account. It's basically a digital "mood board" that anyone can look at. Things you find interesting, inspiring, and generally beautiful, you curate on different boards. I think it really is a fantastic idea, and I love looking through my friends creative crack. The other day I realized I had all these great pictures hidden in my hard drive that needed to be grouped together for some visual stimulation. Don't things look so much brighter when you take out the good ones and put them together?

These are some of my favs! Please excuse the mixed sizes, they are from different cameras - some being the crappy one in my Iphone. Oh well, you get the idea.

NEW!

2011-01-27T10:43:00.002-07:00

Here's what I have been up to lately .... jewelry!

All Day, Every Day.

Now You're In New York

2010-12-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

via: Advanced Style

See, even the ELDERLY dress better than I do.

I suppose this post is long overdue.... 3 weeks over due to be exact. This is the thing about moving to a new city, everything feels so overwhelmingly exciting and the idea of putting aside some time to blog seems like a chore. I know when things slow down and I start to feel like this is my new home and not some whirl wind adventure of exploring and discovering the next big exciting pub/shop/restaurant/band, coming back to blogging about fashion and life will feel like coming home. Until then, Im sorry I have been far from interesting.

Here's what is interesting about moving to the "Fashion Capital of North America"... everything you once deemed "stylish" and "risky" is now resembling more along the lines of "dowdy" and "boring". Riding the subway always provides these moments of clarity... when 3/4 of the women on the train are in towering high heels (they walk ALL day in those things??) and fur jackets you start to feel a little like the girl next door in your flat boots (complete with blisters from all the trekking) and wool coat. As a girl that has always taken to fashion like a scientist does to Darwin, it's a bit disturbing to realize everything you once thought was stylish, only applies to ALBERTA, but is not so cutting edge here in New York. So, there you have my issue... everyday, getting dressed feels like a test of my creative self - how far can I push the envelope? Which heels can I walk 25 city blocks in with turning my feet into beef carpaccio?

Anyway, I guess I'm excited for my future fashion. As of right now I will continue to ask Ryan "is this too Brooklyn for me to wear in Manhattan?" and him to roll his eyes and go back to watching NINE HOURS of football. Eff.

The Pride Of Norway

2010-12-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

The last time I wore these socks was in Edmonton while visiting my friend Monika. She commented on how her father, Nordahl, would really dig my socks due to his extreme Norwegian pride. When we were kids Monika and I would have to paint giant Norwegian flags on bristol board for her dad's "Sons Of Norway" meetings and marches. Needless to say, every time I wear these socks I think of old Nordahl and his approval of my choices. Now, while these socks are fantastically fashionable, they are, more importantly, very functional. Despite my previous inclinations that New York weather would be far superior to the snowy, frigid, snot freezing cold of my homeland.... I was sorely mistaken. Yes, there's no snow here, yeah it's only -3 today... so what! It's windy. Very, very windy - at least in Greenpoint where I am living. They say it's due to the close proximity to the Hudson River (I'm a block off the river) but holy hell that cold air really cuts like a knife! Today's outfit was purely based on the foundation of being warm while I stomped my way to the grocery store. The red lipstick (new!) was just a little icing on the cake. I think the Polish ladies that swarm this neighbourhood liked it though!

P.S: I bought homemade perogies at the grocery store today. Best. Day. Ever.

Sweater: F21, Jean Shirt: Joe Fresh, Winter Leggings: AA, Shearling Wedges: Aldo, Necklace: Millicent, Lipstick: "Lady Danger" M.A.C

Bang A Lang

2010-12-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

hat: Beacons Closet, Vintage find. cashmere sweater: Holt Renfrew, Thrifted from Trends. denim: Domino, Nokomis. belt: Thrift.

I havent forgotten about you dear Audrey readers. Finally, I am starting to feel settled in New York and have some time to get back to it- more on that subject later... must get back to the jewelry making for christmas orders!

xo
m.

What you think of the bangs? I figured I should hit the ground running... one major life change was apparently not enough for me.

This Women Is Changing My Life

2010-11-16T08:00:00.001-07:00

Holy Shit! This blog kills me!

Go! Go Now!

THE MAN REPELLER

Speculations

2010-11-10T13:07:00.001-07:00

Images: LF Winter Lookbook - via: Because Im Addicted

Im pretty sure this is going to be my new favourite New York store, LF... it's just the perfect amount of Explorer meets Bohemian Prairie Dweller to quash my homesick heart. I do fear all things Canadiana will come spill out of my pours when I get there. Maybe a few "eh"s will slip out of my mouth just for fun, just to set myself away from the pact. I think it's pretty true how Nationalism seems to really magnify when you move away from your country. Then again, Im only speculating. I won't know until Nov 24- when I land in the big apple and become a misplaced Canadian on American soil.

In Hiding

2010-11-04T13:12:00.000-06:00

Im in Edmonton for the month getting ready to jump ship to City Of Lights aka The Big Apple aka NYC. I dont have much access to a computer, or any nice clothing for that matter (packed boxes!) but I will try to keep updating this little thing I call my blog.

If any of my pals are in Edmonton and would like to see me, I will be slinging high quality Canadian goods at Nokomis for the month.

Last Day

2010-11-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

Top: Joe, Silk Pants: Forever 21, Brogues: Salvatore Ferragamo, Vintage, Leopard Headband: Vintage.

Photos from my last day at Montauk. Goodbye beautiful exposed brick and distressed hardwood... I will miss you and your perfect photographic lighting.

Also, if there is ever a day to wear glorified pyjamas to work - the last day is definitely it.

hunting and gathering

2010-10-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

Images from: If You Seek Style

14 Days of Outfit Inspiration from Zara, NastyGal and Asos.

Ab. Fab

Searching For Perfection

2010-10-27T08:00:00.002-06:00

For about 6 months now I have been bitching and complaining about how I need a new bag. Any ear that would listen would get a full spiel about how I just can't settle on any one bag - how not anything will do. This bag needs to be perfect in every possible way. It must be leather (as much as I love animals, I really hate fake leather. It looks cheap... and it's too disposable. I want to have this bag forever. I want to pass the bag down to the children that I may or may not have. I want it to be perfect) it preferably will be either black or brown or most ideally both black and brown. It will have two straps, cross body and shorter for when I want to carry it with a pathetic limp arm like Paris Hilton. It won't be overly structured, because I am not overly structured and it will be a good, medium size to fit what I need while not encouraging me to go overboard and put my shoulder out.

Anyway, the search has brought me to many but few are good enough for me to just go for it and make it mine. Nothing is speaking to me loudly enough.

Until today. Today I got an email from Anthropologie, and while I find their clothing lately to be too much on the embellishment side - too many ruffles, too much embroidery, too girly. I do, however consistently love their bags. Beautiful patterned linings, soft buttery leather, and always providing a number of good slouchy options that fit my ever growing list of needs for my perfect bag.

These are the options as of late. (in order of preference)

While I was searching, I went to Asos to try to find some other options... although it really doesn't fit my criteria, I just think this is kind of beautiful and wild.

Above and Beyond

2010-10-26T08:00:00.002-06:00

Shoes: Aldo, Pants: Domino, Nokomis, Black Merino Sweater: Club Monoco, Thrifted, Gingham Top: Dace, Nokomis

Finally treated myself to some new winter wedges. After buying these shoes a while back, I have a new found love for wedges and being tall. Fantastic. Stella seemed to like them too....

DAY FOUR

2010-10-25T08:00:00.030-06:00

Silk Button Up: Vintage, Lace Slip (underneath): Vintage, Green Moto Pants: Zara, Suede Lace Ups: Vintage, Glasses: The Observatory

Whatever I lacked in vintage from the day before, I surely made up this day. My silk top and great suede booties are from the Value Village I raided in Victoria. Whew. What a day we had there. I had to re-pack all my bags at the airport to fit all my new steals in. I can't believe someone was throwing these shoes out! Or so I thought..... but after traipsing around in them all day - I think I may understand. Off to soak my barking dogs I went, but it probably won't stop me from wearing them again. No pain no gain ladies.

Also, everytime I wear my hair like this I think to myself "I'm a Pony!" on account of a girl I went to University with would pile her hair up into a friggen fountain on the top of her head... and everytime she would jog down the halls and up the stairs we would all chant "I'm a Pony!"- I just can't move past it.

Savings

2010-10-22T18:16:00.001-06:00

Whoops! Day Four will have to be reserved for Monday - when Im back at work! The suspense is probably just killing you, isn't it?

DAY THREE

2010-10-22T08:00:00.047-06:00

Fringe Cardi: F21, Silk Top: F21 (altered by me),Shiny Leggings: F21, Boots: Frye, Gravity Pope, Red Lipstick: "Sephora Rouge", Jewelry: Vintage and Millicent Designs

Holy Moly! I clearly should be sponsored by Forever 21... ahem. It's an unsual day that I am head to toe in clothing that has no vintage representation. Oh well, I guess the giant ass ring from the Antique Mall in Edmonton must count for something, right?

Oh. Right. The Ring (& my smeared Rouge) c'est magnifique.

DAY TWO

2010-10-21T11:50:00.000-06:00

Sweater Dress: FCUK (thrifted), Leather Belt: Vintage Deborah, Tights: The Bay, Woven Boots: Corso Como, Ebay. Earrings: Millicent Designs

I brought Stella with me to work!! Just a girl in her favourite colour combination of Cognac Brown and Black, her camera and her bestfriend.

Four Days

2010-10-20T11:06:00.000-06:00

DAY ONE

Wearing: Crop Top: Artizia (thrifted), Highwaisted Trousers: Vintage, Judith. Heels: Audley Almond Toes, Gravity Pope. Jewelry: Millicent Designs and Vintage

I gave myself a challenge this week - I decided as I only have 2 weeks left in this beautiful building I work in, that I would do an outfit post every (working) day this week. I always find outift posts of people's everyday wears to be the most interesting. Nothing overly fussy here, just what I throw on before I run out the door to go to work.

HBC

2010-10-19T12:39:00.001-06:00

Since knowing I was going to move out of the country, I started to feel nostalgic of all the little things I always took for granted. Being from the prairies I'm used to the vastness of canola fields and lonesome hay bails, but recently it's been harvest season here and I don't think prior to this year I have really noticed. On my weekly pilgrimage down Highway 2 I noticed the farmers hard at work tilling the fields in the dark. A giant machine all lit up plowing through the dried up land, so much dust turning up I could barely see 3 feet in front of me on the adjacent highway. It really made me realize how crappy my own work ethic really is compared to these guys. I have some mad respect.

Anyway, on my last trip West I went to the Hudsons Bay Company in downtown Vancouver with my best friend, Amber. I remembered seeing this amazing Bay Blanket jacket as done by Canadian designer, Smythe on the cover of Fashion Magazine during the Winter Olympics last year.There is nothing more quintessentially Canadian than the striped wool blanket associated with Museum dioramas showcasing Natives trading with the British. I was really excited to see it hanging on the racks in front of me and had to try it on.... now, if only I had some extra dosh sitting to around to make it mine.

The Resistance

2010-10-18T13:07:00.000-06:00

It seems every year I forget how much I love autumn. I will venture to say it wont be around much longer here in Alberta, but I am excited at the prospect of it potentially still happening in New York when I get there. The reason for my love of this season is my uncanny ability to dress like a 1940's french spy. Growing up, my grandfather only allowed me to watch British Television programmes in the evening... mostly because it was the only TV he could relate to at the time (I should state that now, at age 84, he loves shows like Desperate Housewives - or "the desperate women" as he calls it). To this day a show called, Allo!, Allo! still flashes into my mind. Whenever I put on a beret and some leather gloves, I feel like I channel Michelle "The Resistance" Dubois and try to fake my best french accent. Something about fall makes it feel perfectly acceptable to wander around looking mysterious and like you're up to something - perhaps it's all the layers and high collars leaving everything under exposed?

All I Can Do

2010-10-13T14:17:00.000-06:00

images via Livet Hemma

It`s officially official... R and I are moving to the Big Apple!

To try to offset the panic attacks I get thinking about packing my life up in boxes and scrubbing baseboards until my hands start to bleed, my current focus has temporarily shifted from the Fashion Blogs to the Design ones. My inspiration and excitement to re do a (small) space and start from scratch (we are selling all our belongings) keeps me balanced and away from sitting in a pile of old, unopened bills and sobbing (what the hell do you do with old bills? Can I really not just recycle them? Should I really be terrified of identity theft?)

Anyway, enter this blog I found called LIVET HEMMA which is basically a (very beautiful) promotional blog for Ikea - albeit in Swedish, so I have no idea of what they are saying. Now, I'm generally not a big proprietor of `temporary` furniture made of particle board that doesn't last the test of time and is far from environmental - but there is something to be said towards the convenience of being to able to start from scratch in one store and not go poor doing so (also, they deliver! No boxes on the subway!) and knowing I can find some great, creative ideas for storage is a relief. Having said all that, I do still feel the pang of nostalgia attached to vintage pieces and their ability to make everything else just shine, and hell, they are made from wood so my fleeting heart can just paint that shit when I get bored! In my mind, it`s just like fashion - the use of old and new, highs and lows and creating a diverse, eclectic look is really important and makes for visual interest. However, my irrational fears of bed bugs riding into my home in the cushion of a chair will make this look difficult, but I'm definitely up for the challenge.

Here are some other note-worthy design blogs worth a gander:

Adore
Coco & Kelley
This Is Glamorous
Apartment Therapy
Design Sponge
Loony

Thanks

2010-10-08T11:43:00.001-06:00

Im heading off to my cottage this weekend for Canadian Thanksgiving. There is nothing more special to me than the feeling I get when Im laying out on my pier with the extreme silence covering over me like a blanket, so Im super excited to get out there! Thanksgiving always marks the last weekend we spend out at the cabin, so it is mostly filled with days of raking leaves, bringing in the water line, and other general manual labour - so I anticipate my laying around time will be very limited. We also have to rush back to Edmonton for my friends wedding on Sunday (10.10.10 wedding date! ohhh sneaky!), so it will be a busy weekend! This summer was marked with a number of Ryan's friends getting hitched and me trying to not get embarrassingly drunk in front of strangers, so Im really looking forward to letting loose in front of my friends and just celebrating.

Happy Thanksgiving, fellow Canadians!

Head Banging

2010-10-06T12:19:00.003-06:00

image via Natalie Off Duty

Recently I have been obsessing about getting bangs. I guess this should not surprise anyone as I have mentioned on here a few times about my attraction to hair. Anyway, perhaps I just need a change but I can't stop thinking about hacking my hair off and embracing a thick fringe. It seems every photo I look at all I see is hair... Im like a 30 something with uterus pains everytime they see a baby in a stroller. I look back at photos from 3 years ago when I had slight bang and I dont feel particularly fond of the overall look... back in the day my bangs were on the thinner, less dramatic side. Having said that, I now crave something to set me apart from the masses, something a bit more "editorial". The only thing holding me back from marching into a salon and telling my girl to go crazy, is the fact I have curly hair and Im lazy. It's a rare day that I blow dry, straighten or even brush my hair so this hippie middle part with curls works really well for get up and go lifestyle. What do you guys think? Bangs on a girl with curly hair? How much work is this going to be, really?

Flying In Style

2010-10-05T11:00:00.003-06:00

Leather Jacket: Vancouver Find/Beaver Collar: Vintage Store, Phoenix/Blingy Belt: Consignment,Vespucci/ Jeans: Domino, Nokomis/ Clutch: Vintage, Value Village.

I love the trend of the Aviator jacket that is going on this season. I have always had an odd attraction to the look of furry collars and cracking leather. I love the way the look screams old time adventure...I guess the idea of flying an old rickety plane with a long scarf on seems rather exciting to me.

I have had pretty great success at finding a great aviator jacket that is about 10 sizes too big for me on the racks at Value Village. Until the day I find another jacket that actually fits me my leather jacket with a sheared beaver collar buttoned on will have to do.

Oldie but Goldie

2010-10-04T12:42:00.005-06:00

Photographer: Laura Margaret Ramsey
Assistant: Dusty Miller
Stylist: Miranda Watson

MUA: Olga Onulov
Hair: Pure Form Salon
Models: Veronica Ostermann & April Kargard of Mode Models

The first Parlour Magazine shoot Laura Margaret Ramsey and I did last year... it was the start of a really great love affair!

want, need, now.

2010-10-01T13:39:00.004-06:00

photo: Ursa Minor Blog

This is my friend Elizabeth who I worked with at Nokomis - she was the designer behind the coveted Nokomis house line. Tragically, Nokomis has since stopped the house line to focus more on the retail side of their business. (I do believe one could hear the collective cry from the masses when production halted). However, do not fret dear friends, she has since moved to Montreal and started up her own private label called, Ursa Minor! Her blog is always interesting and great for keeping up to date on her projects. Currently on the list of must have pieces are these fantastic leather leggings she is wearing (styled to perfection, may I add). She says they are heading to Nokomis soon and I just hope and pray I am in town when they arrive, because I am positive there will be a full out war between girls to score a pair!

An Apple A Day

2010-09-30T10:40:00.003-06:00

Blazer: Ralf Lauren, Vintage. Linen White Tee: Zara. Jeans: Domino, Nokomis. Woven Bag: Vintage, Victoria V.V. Wedges: Nine West, Thrifted. Sunnies: Purr Kens. Lipstick: Revlon Wine Not Matte.

Im really into large mens jewelry lately... I cleaned out an old suitcase of my boyfriends the other day and found this huge gangster chain in it. I wish it werent true that my boyfriend wore this thing in all seriousness, his defense was this; "Miranda, do you realize I went to school on the East Coast and everyone thought they were the reincarnation of TuPac." Oh, well his once gangster styling is now my gain! (although, Im so happy we met after this stage in his life, because let me tell you, I would of not been interested in anything but glaring at him and planning his demise). The chain is heavy, the perfect length and silver. I actually really like the way it looks with a simple outfit, gives me a bit of badass metal styling, I guess. Thanks honey. Im never giving it back... let's be honest though - on him it's shameful but on me, it's glorious!

P.S: Ryan said these shoes make me look like an Asian cleaning lady... so I have decided to consign them. I just can't get past the image when I look down. Also, I need to start reminding myself that just because something is "trendy" or "happening" does not mean I buy the first thing that looks somewhat similar to it... because I end up with semi ok stuff that I am not in LOVE with. Spend a little more money and get things you love... lesson learned!

Stolen

2010-09-28T23:55:00.004-06:00

thieved photo from Lori's Flickr account

Lori, the 10 Cent Designer's photo of the necklace I made her. Cute, Cute, double cute - would not of styled it any better myself. I love me some work socks!

But Really, Wine Not?

2010-09-28T23:34:00.004-06:00

images: Google and Lulu Letty

My new favourite fall shade : Revlon - Wine Not

Perfect for those Friday nights when I consume too many glasses and get wine rimmed lips and purple teeth. Dont you just love how dark lipstick makes the ol' teeth look so much whiter? Problem solved! Also, matte lipstick? Yes Yes Yes.

Autumn Colours

2010-09-27T09:55:00.007-06:00

Smoking Jacket: Vintage. Scarf: Vintage. Semi Sheer Tee: Joe. Jeans: Domino, Nokomis. Boots: Frye, Gravity Pope

It's kinda crazy leaving a city and coming home to discover a whole new season is in full swing. The leaves have completely changed over from the blazing greens to the bright yellows and reds. They flutter down to meet my feet... and it all happen in a week! I must not complain, because autumn lasts about 3 minutes in Alberta and it really is the prettiest time of the year.

I got this great vintage smoking jacket on a trip to Duncan last week sometime. It's made of this fabulous heavy quilted silk and in really great condition. Now, a vintage robe is something I covet in my home, with my hair wrapped up in a towel (Queen Sheba, my grandfather would call me), but a vintage smoking jacket is the perfect lazy fall jacket! I also scored this crazy leopard and floral print silk scarf from the same shop in Duncan. I picture some eccentric artist lady wandering the aisles of the market in this scarf's previous life. The trendy animal print is happening, and although I saw some pretty wild leopard bags in my travels, this scarf was a little more my speed.

wisdom and walking away

2010-09-23T12:03:00.004-06:00

I met this owl yesterday. I was walking from the river behind the house and his giant wing span went swooping down in front of my face. I'm proud to say I didn't scream, but I was definitely shocked. My jaw dropped and a "holy shit!" came out of my mouth. He landed in the tree above me and continued to stare down at me. Toti had told me the following day that one day an owl had dive bombed her and bopped her on the top of the head. She felt like it was trying to tell her something, or was maybe just mad at her for walking on it's turf.... who knows. Needless to say all I could think about was how I hoped this particular owl wouldn't start dive bombing my head as I was standing under his tree staring at him. I was just very happy I didn't have any feather earrings on that day!

Today I leave the island and fly back to my landlocked home in Calgary. Arrrrg. I guess I will have to stop dressing like an explorer on a daily basis and dust off those high heels for work on Friday. Booooo

take it all in

2010-09-22T22:00:00.003-06:00

Some great fall looks from NET-A-PORTER via MCM

The Island

2010-09-21T18:23:00.004-06:00

A few photo's I took today of a walk around Vancouver Island. Im staying just outside of Duncan and my grandmother's friend, Toti's, home. To say the area is inspiring is obviously an understatement- every where I look is another photo I HAVE to take. Im here until Thursday and it seems like it's almost not enough time to take it all in...

Van City

2010-09-17T11:26:00.004-06:00

Photos I took yesterday when I got off the plane and into my west coast state of mind

Hey, Im in Vancouver visiting some friends this weekend! Off to the island Sunday to hang out with my mum and grandfather. I may be MIA from the blogsphere for a little while, but know I am having oodles of fun - perhaps laying on a beach somewhere or eating really cheap delicious sushi!

It's so right meow.

2010-09-15T11:55:00.004-06:00

Let this photo be a reminder that I need to pluck my eyebrows. Yikes. Sorry folks.

My obsession du jour... the cat eye. It should not surprise you that I am so on board for this make up trend (along with the wine stained lips) if you have ever seen any photos of me in my jr. high days. I would proudly sport my crazy wing tip eyeliner (sometimes it even would swirl on my temples into little filigree patterns) with brown/red lipstick & hair (frizzy, brushed out curls) parted down the middle. Of course, then I would wear too big men's suit trousers (termed: Old Man Pants) tightly cinched at the waist and plaid button ups that were easily 4 sizes too big with beer tees underneath. I think my mother was terrified of what I may turn into and put me in an all girls school with uniforms, assumably to stifle my fashion creativity on a Monday-Friday basis. Eventually, at school they forbid us to wear crazy eye make up and told us to stop rolling our kilts up so high. We were all obsessed with The Craft and felt a deep connection with chunky heeled black boots and hap-hazzardly buttoned up white shirts that the girls would sport. I would love to say we didnt try to make eachother levitate and we didnt play Oujia at house parties, but of course that would be a blatant lie.

You know you're old when you can reminisce about the things you wore as a kid and now they are all coming back into style and that just seems crazy to you... not that I'm complaining- I'm pretty sure I have a few pairs of "old man" pants stashed away at my mum's house!

Down By The Lake

2010-09-14T12:41:00.004-06:00

Photographer: Laura Margaret
Ramsey

Stylist: Miranda Watson

Make Up Artist: Olga Onulov

Hair: Pure Form Salon

Models: Caitlin Thomas & Jenna Jackson from Mode Models

I finally got the photos from the photoshoot I styled for photographer, Laura Ramsey for the last issue of Parlour Magasine. Most of the jewelry is Millicent Designs and the clothing is well, from everywhere... ha (feel free to message me if you have questions, or go to the Parlour Website and you can see the issue online). We shot on location at Glenmore Reservoir on a boiling hot summer morning. Looking back on these photos makes me miss the days of flowing dresses and bare skin. What I would give to be floating on a cloud above a cool lake on a hot summer day... did I mention SNOW is in the near forecast for Calgary? Arrrrg.

5" and Up

2010-09-13T13:09:00.004-06:00

I haven't showcased a blogger that inspires me for a while... I thought today I would tell you about one of the blogs I look forward to reading everyday... 5 inch and Up ! I suppose it shouldn't surprise me an expat from Finland living in London who loves towering heels speaks to me. Her minimalistic style mixed with a little bohemian spice gets my gears turning for fall. Not to mention Calgary is looking eerily similar to London in it's gloomy grey nature and never ending cold rainy days.... now if only there were a Camden Market that I could raid on the weekends too...

next summer

2010-09-10T11:56:00.005-06:00

Jen Kao 2011 via Knight Cat

As if I needed any reason to long for summer days again... and then I see these friggen UNREAL crochet leg/foot things.... I am going to find a way to make these for next summer. I have, what 9 months + to practise my technique. The high ones are glorious!

Ticks

2010-09-10T11:21:00.004-06:00

Wearing: Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Tick Wedges. Jeans: Domino, Nokomis. Top: Tulula Crop Crew Neck, Trends Consignment. Leather Jacket: Some Random Store in Vancouver (it was on sale for $100!). Chain Scarf: Holt Renfrew. Necklace: Millicent. Bag: Zara.

I finally got to bust out my new Jeffrey Campbell's while out for wine with Tara last weekend. The verdict is they are a little.... er... flashy.. so perhaps will not be a daily wear. However, I must say being this tall is mind blowingly awesome! Who knew?! (other than people who arent 5'3 like myself, I guess) I definatly need more wedges in my life... you tall people are so lucky - even the air is sweeter from up here.

Leathaaaa

2010-09-09T10:29:00.007-06:00

I got this great skirt from VV the other day. It was cute, but too long and Business Nasty looking- so I hacked it! The following is my super duper easy DIY;

Value Village BCBG Leather Skirt - $14.99 (see what Im saying? Inflation!)

Turn inside out, yank the liner to the side. Grab something long and straight (I used a picture frame) and draw a straight line and cut away! Do the same for the liner.

Hem up the cut liner about 1 inch and iron to make it easier to sew. Sew! (check out my fancy new sewing machine that I got for xmas from my aunt and cousins! Thanks guys!!)

Now, toss it on with a over sized sweater and go play in the fake garden in your apartment building!

R and I went for Wings and Beers with some boys, so after I tried on my new skirt with some cute heels R said "Miranda, this is a Hill Billy Bar, not New York" I changed into my grunge get up and hit the road running!

However, between you and me I did wear my Vintage Salvatore Ferragamo's to keep it a little classy! Shhh!

And so concludes my extremely easy DIY. I should mention, this skirt had no hem on it when I bought it, the leather is extremely soft and smooth with not much suede backing so I was able to just cut it and not sew it up. Im not sure if this is possible with all leathers, but give it a whirl... worse case scenario is you have to buy a leather needle and sew that sucker up (or get a tailor to do it)

Ta Da! Now go play in plastic trees.

Wearing: Grey Cashmere Sweater: Holt Refrew, Vintage Vivy Haythornthwaite (Great Gran). Leather Skirt: DIY Value Village. Army Jacket: Army Surplus Store. Tights: The Bay. Shoes: Thrifted from Vespucci Calgary.

Charles Jourdan

2010-09-08T12:27:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was my day off from work and I decided to treat myself to a "quick" trip to Value Village. I told myself I would only spend 1/2 hour there to ensure I would get other things done during the day.

Well, I guess I should know myself better than making these time lines as I ended up spending 2 HOURS in that damn store! Everywhere I turned there was more to root through, more treasures to potentially find. My extreme, bordering on obsessive, diligence was not completely in vain as I managed to waltz out of there with a giant bag of goodies. As an aside, is it just me or did VV get EXPONENTIALLY more expensive? $8 for a leather belt?! Are you kidding me, I used to spend 89 cents on a belt there...OK, I'm aging myself. Anyway, I came across these bizarre black and red suede heels that left me both intrigued and disgusted. The intrigued side of me won and I ended up taking the suckers home for 10 bucks.

These crazy shoes looked expensive so I decided to google them when I got home. As it turns out they are actually Charles Jourdan shoes from either the late 70's or 80's. Charles Jourdan, according to google were the "Louboutins of our mother's generation". His shoes were hot and racy and his advertising matched this image and helped sky rocket him into a coveted shoe brand of the time. I found this awesome advert from the 80's that was taken by photographer Guy Bourdin for the Jourdan campaign - I love it! Soon I will post some pictures of the shoes I found, but in the meantime you feast your eyes on this great ad!

Jewelry Addiction

2010-09-07T17:09:00.003-06:00

My Name Is Miranda and I have a problem.....

Poor R. has to deal with this monstrosity in our bathroom.... I actually hide his stuff in boxes under sink to make room for my million accessories. Sorry my dear!

I should state that the Panther Ring is from my friend, Alyson, who mailed it and the "J'adore" and two finger leaf (which I think is the Elizabeth & James for F21 collaboration) rings to me from Phoenix. I saw the sparkly ruby eyed Panther at an antique store in Glenmore (if you ever go to Phnx, please believe you will think you have DIED and gone to heaven in Glenmore) and I deliberated purchasing the crazy thing for over an hour and opted to save the money for other adventures. I was filled with regret and Alyson being the gal she is went back and bought it for me. Best day ever? When I received the package in the mail!

Stating where everything else is from would be too time consuming, so I will leave it at that and invite comments if you're really curious - although, I should also warn you I have a real issue with vintage shopping and most of my non Millicent pieces are one of a kind wonders.

New Boots

2010-09-06T18:02:00.003-06:00

Swing Sweater: Joe (3 years ago). Grey Drop Hem Sweater: F21. Scarf: Vintage Judith (are you guys so sick of seeing this thing?!) Black Tube dress: AA. Knee High Socks: The Bay. Boots: Hand Picked Nokomis Vintage. Skull & Peace Sign Necklace: Millicent Designs Bag: Zara

Last time I was in Edmonton I made my trip to Nokomis to say Hi to the girls and feel at home for a little bit (I worked there for 3 years, and it still owns a huge part of my heart) and I spotted these boots when I walked in the door. The colour is so very perfect and I thought for sure they were Frye's. They arent. But, they are no name beauties with a tag stating they are made in Uruguay. Now, I never knew Uruguay was a big producer of beautiful leather boots... not that I care, they are so sweet! They are also a full size too big for me, but Jill had an easy time convincing me an insole would fix that issue in a jiffy. I can already see these being my new staple winter boot! What a glorious find Jessica, thanks!

(also, the story behind this awesome necklace can be found here - if you're really interested)

black on black and never going back

2010-09-02T11:21:00.004-06:00

tank: eve gravel, nokomis. maxi skirt: piece from audrey. denim jacket: vintage judith (thnx mum!) bracelet: west edmonton mall kiosk. rings: various vintage and new. earrings: millicent designs. sandals: joe fresh from 3 years ago.

Here I am doing my best Olsen twin minimalistic black maxi length dress impression. R and I went out for a casual dinner last weekend with some friends that have just moved into the city - I thought I would bust out the maxi skirt I found at the grandparents house a while ago. I should mention this skirt is a size 14 and still had it's tags on it from when my gran bought it sometime in the 90's from Jacob. Ha! It required a lot of magical synching to make fit around my waist line.... but I dont think anyone noticed. The other good thing about fall is I can start comfortably wearing my monochromatic black wardrobe and not boil to death. Fantastic.

also.... see what I mean? Albeit, they do it much more glamourously than I do, but then again I am not a multi millionaire.... not yet at least! muhahaha!

image from Olsens Anonymous

2 times!

2010-09-01T10:45:00.003-06:00

Black Wool Blazer: Ralph Lauren, Value Village (10 yrs ago!) Grey Deep V: A.A Scarf: Vintage Judith (thnx mum!) Black "Jeggings": F21 in Phnx. Combat Boots: YMC, Gravity Pope. Native Beaded Earrings: Dream, Vancouver. Necklace: Millicent

Im starting to get a good surplus of photos these days... much to R's dismay (he hates taking photos) so you all can be blessed with 2 entries today, also I am going away this weekend - so the likely of a Friday post is slim. Anyway, this is everyday Miranda at work. Nothing too exciting - I would of loved to wear a skirt or dress with some tights but I ride my bike to work and I was about 3 minutes from being late this day so it was a toss on (not to mention, biking in a skirt is very difficult)

Finally!

2010-09-01T10:30:00.003-06:00

They came! They came!

My Jeffrey Campbell Studded Tick wedges finally came in the mail yesterday! Im so excited to bust these out. I love the idea of a wedge to give me a little height without giving me extreme pain... and who doesnt love some metal to rock out in?

Thank you Ebay for saving me over 100 bones!

yessss!

Make Love, Not War.

2010-08-30T10:30:00.005-06:00

Bell bottoms: Citizens of Humanity, Trends Consignment. Tank: F21. Jacket: Army Surplus, West Edmonton Mall. Belt: Nokomis. Scarf: Piece From Audrey. Shoes: Vialis, Gravity Pope. Copper Necklace: Millicent. Rings: Various Vintage and New. Metal Cuff: Holistic Store, Kensington.

Went to a bbq at a friends house this weekend. I think I started channeling some army protesting hippie while I was getting ready. I found these amazing high waisted bells a while ago, but the weather had been too hot to wear them. As everyone in Alberta can atest, this is no longer the case. It's cold! Really cold! Seeing my breath cold! Im not happy about it, but at least that means I can start making room in my closet for all my fall layers.

Also, had some weird impulse to dye my hair. Went to the Safeway and picked up some Semi Perm in Hazelnut and tada my Gemini heart is ful filled! I have 28 washes until my next impulse hits. Sweet.

Coco, Off The Market!

2010-08-27T15:35:00.004-06:00

This is apparently what it looks like to be a super model turned bride.... just a lil' wedding.... in a castle.... in France... to a famous British Interior Designer. No biggie. Yeah, a Zac Posen Mermaid Wedding Dress... whatever...

Also, could this "movie" make a wedding anymore epic? The music?! I guess when you're used a camera in your face daily it's NBD to have one on you your whole wedding. Whoa.

p.s - favorite moments.... Mum in a mini top hat! ... and swirling Coco in a stairwell!

The disfunctional relationship of love/hate

2010-08-26T13:47:00.005-06:00

"I’ve been thinking a lot lately about fashion blogger cliches–namely because when a lot of people meet me in real life they are 1. underwhelmed by what I’m wearing 2. shocked I can’t name drop ‘cool’ designers 3. more shocked that I don’t care. I like fashion. I like it a lot. I think it’s an incredible creative outlet and admire those people who can effortlessly do it season after season. That being said, I’ve never had this crazy desire (that I do for science or people) to learn about it. I think paying excessive sums of money for clothes is crazy (i was ogling things on net-a-porter the other day: $2000 dollars for dress pants?!?). I think being a snob about clothing is even more crazy. I think this is why I have a love-hate relationship with fashion. I LOVE beautiful clothes and shoes, but I hate this exclusive culture that surrounds fashion. Like really? Over something so frivolous?"

As quoted by fellow Canadian, Vanessa of The Haute Pursuit . Get out of my head, and into my car gurrrrl!

I warned you

2010-08-26T10:35:00.004-06:00

Danger! Danger! Im going to jump start the economy!

CLICK!

My Arsenal

2010-08-25T18:21:00.003-06:00

Left to right: China Glaze: Recycle, OPI : You Dont Know Jacques!, OPI: Barefoot In Barcelona, OPI: Manicurist Of

Seville, OPI: Hey Vito, Is My Car Red-y?

Last year when I was in Arizona visiting my grandparents, I made my annual pilgrimage to downtown Phoenix to visit my fabulous friend, Alyson. Whenever we are together we have the greatest time and I wonder how we are ever able to survive a full year without each other. This past winter when I came by for my visit I quickly realized the wonder that is OPI nail polish, specifically, "Over The Taupe". I saw Alyson a number of times over my visit and every time I made her tote her Nail polish with her for constant touch ups. I was in love.

Since getting home from that trip I have scoured beauty shops top to bottom for my shade of choice... all to no avail. I was able to find one similar, "You Dont Know Jacques!" that is now a staple in my world. I suppose everyone has a beauty secret to feeling like a million bucks, mine just happens to be the wonder of OPI nail polish!

Thanks so much to my lovely Alyson for introducing me to these loyal friends. Never before have I thought much about putting any time into my rather menial beauty routine, but let me tell you there is nothing like a good painted nail to make you feel put together! Hey, just dont forget your top coat!

Elvis' Bench

2010-08-24T12:14:00.006-06:00

Crop Top: Dace, Nokomis. Jeans: Domino, Nokomis. Platforms: Michael Kors, Thrift. Belt: Vintage. Jewelry: Assorted Vintage and new. Beaded Cuff: Kiosk, West Edmonton Mall. Sunnies: Oscar DeLaRenta, TJ Maxx, Phoenix.

These were taken yesterday out at the park across from our house when I got home from work. This bench had some good light on it, so it seemed like a good place to sit. Later, I realized it had a plaque on it dedicating the bench to a man named Elvis, which obviously made it way cooler. Just me and Elvis sitting in a park together.

some things

2010-08-23T11:21:00.006-06:00

The new fur.

I'm not sure if this is a real tattoo, but either way I approve.

dark and smokey

A real piece from Audrey. My favorite painting Audrey made, which is now hanging in my living room. Nothing makes me feel more at home than this.
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Sorry pals! I just got home from 4 days in Edmonton, where I hung out with my grandparents for the weekend. On Friday we went to the new(ish) Alberta Art Gallery and cultured ourselves. My grandfather had a hard time grasping the Contemporary Art galleries that were being shown this month. There was a lot of "what the hell is that?" and "is this just trash someone left here, or is this actually art?" and don't even get me started on the installation pieces.... needless to say I had to do a lot of shushing and muted giggling. Don't you just love grandparents?!

Anyway, besides the gallery I finally got to go to my favorite bead store and stocked up on a huge bag of new supplies. I am excited for the creating that I plan on doing this week. I love new things, but then again who doesnt. Millicent fall/winter 2010, big things are happening! Excited!

Speaking of art, inspiring things and creating...I thought today's post would be a few images that are inspiring me these days. I have a flooding over inspiration folder on my computer, but these are my fav photo's I've procured lately.

Also, sorry I dont remember where all the images came from - it's been a while since I acquired a few of them - but they still resonate so well.

The Perfect Fall

2010-08-18T10:48:00.004-06:00

This, to me, is the perfect fall inspiration.

That collar makes me feel warm and cozy, which helps me (temporarily) forget how cold and miserable I will actually be.

Sunny Days

2010-08-17T12:13:00.003-06:00

Black tube dress: American Apparel. Crochet Vest: Vintage Audrey. Gold Snake Belt: Vintage Thrift. Sunnies: Purr Kensington, Bag: Vintage Thrift. Shoes: Gravity Pope. Ring: Vintage Edmonton Antique Mall. Bracelets: Various Vintage and Millicent. Necklace: Millicent

They seem to happen a lot less these days. I can't help but get all nostalgic for the days of my childhood when every summer day seemed hotter than the last. I would spend my days lounging around my cottage in a bathing suit running laps from the neighbors cottage, into the lake to cool off and back to my cabin for food.

Yesterday provided a scorcher here in Calgary. I, of course, wore nothing but black and was becoming delirious with the heat. R and I headed down to the river after work to have a little "man float". By the time we got down there, bathing suits in tow, it was 8 pm and I was quickly turned into a buffet for a hoard of mosquito's. Needless to say only R ended up floating on his back in the river while I watched and took photos of him screaming as the water was so cold. No regrets on my end, that's for sure.

Too bad today is 14 and feels like fall is quickly approaching. Let's hope for a hot September.

Lovin' Loony

2010-08-16T10:42:00.007-06:00

I dont spend much time focusing on any of my other, non-fashion related loves on this blog. Mostly because, let's be honest, you come here to read about fashion and trends and whatever else you find interesting about my seemingly not interesting life. Anyway, I digress. Today, I focus on my other love, home design. I find the two worlds to be incredibly complimentary as interior design really mimics trends in colours, textures and patterns in fashion. The melding of the worlds is not a new thing, but seems to be catching on as the internet continues to penetrate all facets of our everyday lives. I have seen many fashion bloggers asked to reveal photos of their home fashion as well as their personal one. Now, dont get excited - Im not going to start snapping pictures of my 600 square foot hellish rental apartment for the sake of contributing, but I will point you to a great magasine that focuses on my two loves in a very direct way - Im talking Loony Magasine and I am talking may-ja inspiration for both my outfits and pattern matching (slash tasteful clashing) and how-to guides to achieve the feeling of runway Fall collections in your home. How can you not loves it?

Copper Black and Green

2010-08-13T12:58:00.001-06:00

Black Tank: Eve Gravel, Nokomis. Long Blazer: DKNY, Value Village. Moto Pants: Zara, Heels: Steve Madden, DSW Phoenix. Jewelry: Assorted vintage and crystal necklace from Nokomis

Just taking a walk around Mission before we headed to a movie. Im wearing my new Zara pants that were a total steal at $ 9.99 (!!) Im thinking they are to become my new obsession... Im wearing them again right now, in fact! Please excuse the crazy make up in this post - Laura and I were brainstorming photoshoot ideas earlier in the day and there was much discussion on the colour Copper and super pigmented make up. I had to go home and try it out for myself to get a good visual of the palates I want to work with for the shoot. It's a little crazy for the day, but it was actually really fun to do, especially for a girl like me who wears nothing more than some eyeliner, mascara and blush on a daily basis.

Deviation

2010-08-12T16:19:00.002-06:00

Let's just deviate from all things folky and earthy and take a moment to feast our eyes on this perfection... am I right, or am I right?

Dear Photo Diary

2010-08-11T10:50:00.003-06:00

I have been on hiatus, trying to regain some sleep from a weekend of hot sun, loud music and er... a lot of beer gardens.

Take a look through my lens.

Little cousin, Samantha & her bestie, Alaina

Samantha's friends "Put this on your blog!"

Oh, no! Ill post more tomorrow!

Happy Weekend, Im Out!

2010-08-06T13:45:00.003-06:00

Images via Edmonton Folk Fest Website

Im off to get my gypsy on! See you on Monday!

It Was A Good Day

2010-08-06T10:29:00.004-06:00

Exciting things are happening in my world.
These are some photos, Lori, from The 10 Cent Designer took of me yesterday at work. We have some really fun things planned - Im super excited! (make sure to check out her Flickr account - it's so inspiring)

If Indiana Jones wore silk pants

2010-08-05T12:46:00.003-06:00

Silk Harem Pants: Forever 21, Striped Tank : Thrift, "Gucci" Heels: DSW, Phoenix, Indiana Hat: Vintage Audrey, Bag: Zara, Jewelry: Millicent Designs & Various Vintage

Laura Marling - Rambling Man

2010-08-04T15:44:00.001-06:00

Can't stop listening....

hair you doin?

2010-08-04T11:37:00.003-06:00

Photos: Kim Noorda by Jamie Isaia via Cartoon Style

via Because Im Addicted

How easy and cute is that? I have been dabbling in the braids tied up on my head thing a little this summer... you know do two Pocahontas style braids and then pin then onto the top of your head like a headband.... but this! This is a great idea! A little less Star Wars (R. always call me Princess Leah when I do the braid up style) and a little more Princess Bride. I foresee this as a possibility for my Edmonton Folk Fest hippie styling this up coming weekend...

Turqouise and Olive

2010-08-03T12:26:00.006-06:00

Silk Top: Vintage, Olive Bandage Skirt: Wilfred, Thrifted, Necklace: Millicent

I decided I needed another bandage skirt in my wardrobe, the other was getting a little ratty from all the wear. I found this olive one at a great consignment store in Kensington, called Trends. Marlis and I went for a little gander on a very hot day and popped in there for a little AC and retail therapy. The skirt is actually longer and super stretchy that I could even wear it as a (short) little strapless dress with some leggings in the fall (you give me any thing dual purpose and I am completely sold). Also, I have to tell you I was so excited when I found this top at a thrift store in Edmonton, it's the perfect colour and is a really beautiful silk. I had in bawled it up in a bag to go to the dry cleaner for about a month and then decided on a whim that I would try to find a way to clean it myself for FREE. After some research online I found a really helpful lady that told me this;
Hand wash garment in luke warm water with a little detergent
Rinse with warm water
Draw another warm bath of water and add white vinegar (this will regain the sheen to the fabric)
Rinse again and roll up in a towel to ring out water
Finish off with laying flat to dry on a towel

Genius! Not only did it come out clean, but so much shiner and posh looking. Vinegar. That is the trick, who knew?! Go forth and never dry clean again.

Happy Long Weekend!!

2010-07-30T11:48:00.003-06:00

It's a long weekend! It's a long weekend! Did I mention, it's the long weekend?! Im so excited for this particular long weekend as it is the annual Seba Beach Regatta out at my cabin. There is a dance, sailboat races, beach volleyball (that we are always too far gone to participate in) and a lot of general debauchery.

Im really looking forward to tanning and painting my nails out on the pier! See you all Tuesday, enjoy your weekend!

Noot Seear
Hobo Magazine F/W 09 via Studded Hearts

Hair! Glorious Hair!

2010-07-29T13:49:00.005-06:00

Whoa! 2 times in one day? What is going on here?! Well, I found this photo on my blog reading today and just love it. I noticed I am drawn to photos with a lot of hair lately.... Im not sure what this means... time for a hair cut maybe? Time for a change maybe? Time for more head banging maybe? But seriously, I had my hair trimmed the other day (first time in 2 years - other than the thinning and trimming Trina and I were doing in her bathroom) and now all I can think about is how much a need a change. Im thinking thick bangs and long long scraggly locks (which I already have, albeit, not that long YET) Am I crazy? Once you have bangs, it's hard to go back, but Im so bored of this mop.

Anyway. Right. The photo.... it's from On The Racks blog.

And this one of Ashley Olsen is from Studded Hearts and is just Q-UTE! .... I know neither of them have thick bangs, so maybe Im just projecting.

Don't Deny Me.

2010-07-29T13:05:00.006-06:00

What innocently began as a quest for the perfect bag has sprung into a full wardrobe re-haul. As some of you may know, ASOS is a epic online store from England. I clearly maintain even the cheapy, trashy (read:Le Chateau) versions of shops around the UK far surpass the quality and style of similar stores found here in Canada. Anyway, a friend told me about this online wonder and I would be lying if I didnt tell you I spend about 4 hours a week on that stupid thing dreaming away. Best part? Shipping is $6 to Canada... FLAT RATE. Yip! Yip!

So, they were having a sale... and I decided since in about 4 weeks summer will be over and I will be cold and wishing for some dry heat, that I should at least look good while feeling miserable. Here you have my SALE (because, this girl loves a good bargain) wish list of some great transitional pieces. What started as a dream purse (!!), quickly was paired with the ultimate in fall/winter booties (will be mine), worn with all black (nothing looks better than saddle brown and black) tight jeans (check out the pin tuck detailing down the knees!) and a great, simple, yet interesting top (drop hem *swoon*) and a few great accessories (that I would make, obvs) and now I have a reason to be excited for the impending doom of winter. A girl's gotta dream.

The other day

2010-07-28T10:33:00.004-06:00

A few outfit pictures from yesterday while I was "working".

I will call this my "model pose", which I think looks hilarious... what the hell am I doing?

I just had these shoes fixed at the cobbler. It had been 2 summer since I broke the strap, and putting them on this morning was like Christmas all over again. <3 size="2">Silk Tank: Forever 21, Linen Trousers: Thrift Phoenix, Scarf: Vintage Judith or Audrey (?) Necklaces: Millicent , T-Strap Flats: Fluevog, Gravity Pope

Calgary Folk

2010-07-27T11:44:00.001-06:00

Nothing marks summer quite like outdoor music festivals. Like clockwork discussions of Folk Fest start circling among our friends in about April and then start becoming a central part of most conversations and summer plans. Never do we book a vacation on that weekend, and people travel home from around Canada just to par take in that one quintessential summer experience. I have been going to Edmonton Folk Fest since I was old enough to walk and subsequently dance, and I dont think I have missed a summer since that first year. Much of my growing up happen on that hill; developing my music tastes, drinking tastes, dancing skills and, of course, my crafting in the Imagination Market tent - elbow deep in colourful crafting supplies.

This year marked my first Calgary Folk Fest experience, despite it not being the Folk Fest I know and love, I had such a great time. The music was amazing, many bands that are on constant rotation on my i pod were jamming in workshops together(Timber Timbre! Ohbijou). The Beer gardens overlooked stages so you could drink a beer and not miss out on all the action. After much toe tapping in the 30 above heat, a quick dip into the adjacent Bow River provided the perfect relief. I saw many a new band and quickly fell in love (Laura Marling!). Sure, I had my heart broken a few times when I would miss a show, but it was worth it for such a great weekend.

A few photographic memories to fill the self induced black holes in my brain;

Marlis and I were really thinking when we bought this boxed wine to sneak in the bladder of red. It's very hard being this sneaky/classy/economic, but I think we succeeded.

Danielle has her first Folking experience ever... she forgets to wear sunscreen.

We test out a theory of how I would look blonde. They really do just have more fun.

We pack lunches to be healthy, but then end up buying 2 giant bags of chips and finish them between 3 of us.

We hang out in Beer gardens in the evening, I almost fall into the Porta Potty while trying to put on pants when the sun goes down. Thankfully, the damage is only towards my ego and alcohol intolerance.

The best part being, the Edmonton Folk Fest isn't for another 2 weeks, which is ample time to recover from this one and get my hippie sway ready for another epic weekend!

Fall Colours

2010-07-21T10:21:00.000-06:00

top: Sunja Link, Nokomis Jeans: Domino, Nokomis, Belt: Vintage, Shoes: Vintage Earrings: Millicent Designs

It seems a bit early to be doing the whole burnt mustard, navy and brown leather combo often associated with Autumn leaves crunching on the ground. Believe me, the last thing I want EVER is to not have my leaves nice and green and alive, symbolizing summer. However, it was a cooler day in Calgary and denim was a bit of a necessity. Nothing helps me feel a little more put together than high waisted denim and a good top to tuck into them. The crazy Mexican belt is the just the cherry on top!

Hearts in my eyes

2010-07-19T14:56:00.000-06:00

I found the most perfect blog I wanted to share with you. Every morning I look forward to hoping on the old Google Reader and quickly scrolling down for her posts.

Behold the wonder!

FADE TO BLACK

This girl completely restores my faith that dressing like a crazy hippie (please note the BELL BOTTOMS!!) is acceptable even when one is in their mid Twenties (thank god, I was getting worried that as I get older, I must become boring. Whew!) Love Love Love her style!

Damn You Parisian Chicks

2010-07-14T15:58:00.001-06:00

What is it about Parisian girls that makes them so awesome? Is there something in the water over there that causes them to grow up classy and effortlessly stylish... oh and friggen beautiful? I want whatever the French put as growth hormone in their beef....

I stole these images from Pandora's Blog, what a beaut... also, doesnt hurt the post was titled "Gold Dust Woman" - and you know how much I love Stevie!

So Sorry

2010-07-13T16:16:00.000-06:00

first 2 images, Marie Claire Aug 2010 via Studded Hearts , last image google search

"How's it in the horse killing capital of Canada? Seeing a lot of horse meat on the menus this time of summer?"

This was the phone call I had with my (picture a tall Irish farmer) grandfather yesterday. Never the type of man to let something slide, especially when it comes to the Calgary-Edmonton rivalry. All the news coverage on the Calgary Stampede and the 4 horses that died in the past few days have really lit a fire under his ass. I have lived in this city 2.5 years and I have always refused to go to any of the Stampede "activities" for this exact reason. I love being from the Prairies and the vastness and beauty associated with it, but I can not stay quiet about the mistreatment of animals for our entertainment due to the belief that it's our "culture" therefore anything goes.

For this reason I dedicate this post to the beauty that is the horse - not just an animal for racing, bucking, and pulling.

You're kidding me, right?

2010-07-13T16:07:00.000-06:00

on a totally unrelated side note.....

"the coolest you'll look pooping your pants"

CLICK HERE

LOLZZZZ

Saturday Night Is Alright

2010-07-12T10:53:00.001-06:00

Tank : Thrift, Wilfred Dress: Thrift, Espadrilles Wedges: Value Village, Purse: Zara, Necklace : Millicent, Bracelet: Piece From Audrey

We went to a friends place Saturday night for some drinks and general debauchery. Lately I have been feeling lazy in my sense of style. People in Alberta are very comfortable in their jeans and t-shirts (plaid button ups), easy style, I suppose. I find myself having to really think about how to make myself look presentable without looking over done, over styled in this city. I figure any day is a good excuse to start wearing wedges and a dress.

Oh Right

2010-07-11T15:07:00.001-06:00

It's Stampede in Calgary, and as much as I hate this time of summer (douche bags in huge "Stetsons" and white leather belts screaming down the streets at all hours, girls in pink straw hats and very mini skirts falling over their huge heeled boots (I'd like to see you rope a calf in that outfit, lady) hay bales thrown into the middle of the street on 17th causing traffic jams for miles, huge line ups everywhere brimming with the apparently excusable activity of being obnoxious because, "relax man, it's Stampede!") despite all this snobby disgust for this time of year... I do really love this photo of Jessica Stam for W magasine. I just wish everyone could make cowgirl look classy and pretty rather than another excuse to be slutty.

Southern Comfort

2010-07-11T13:11:00.002-06:00

google image

When I was freshly 18 (the legal drinking age here in Alberta) I went through the usual poor drinking choices. Started off with Tequila shots with lemons and salt licks, moved on to Sour Puss and 7 up (yikes) and of course horrible, watered down draft beer (Cowboys 75 cent Thursdays, anyone?) Around my early 20's I started experimenting with Southern Comfort. The SoCo and ginger was a staple in my weekly drinking habits. Being in my early 20's and feeling mighty proud of myself I was out for dinner with my mum and I ordered her a SoCo and Ginger at the bar and brought it back to her, grin on my face. She promptly informed me in a hushed whisper associated with WASPy ladies, that only "questionably promiscuous women" (read:whores) drink Southern Comfort - and so my Southern Comfort drinking ways were sent into a quick halt. (I moved onto, and still am on, the Vodka Soda Lime train. Albeit much less frequently than those glory days)

Anyway, not too long ago I came across this photo of the lovely and ever talented Miss Janis Joplin. I recognize daily that I was born in the wrong era, and feel a real connection and desire to be a 70's flower child - so this photo spoke to me about general awesomeness... and then! And then I notice she's drinking SoCo (straight, from the bottle may I add) So there you go, mum, only whores and Janis Joplin drink SoCo so that makes it infinitely cooler and badass. SoCo Ginger & Limes for the rest of my summer!

exit mag

2010-07-10T20:51:00.000-06:00

out takes I found on Because Im Addicted, which is another great daily read may I add.

Anyway, these are my favourite shots that Mark "The Cobrasnake" did. Who knew the guy could actually take real photo's of people... when sober (assumably) and not just partying and acting like general pretentious assholes. Huh.

weekends

2010-07-09T10:54:00.000-06:00

Weekends in Calgary mean something really great...

The Calgary Farmers Market! Not only does it have some delicious Albertan (and not so Albertan) grown produce it also has Phil & Sebastian magical lattes! I like to drag R out to the market with the promise of sitting in a huge outdoor patio at the Wild Rose Brewery and drink fruity beers (his) and dark creamy stouts (mine) for an hour in the blazing sun. Oh, did I mention my absolute favourite part of the Farmers Market? Real french Macaroons! Nothing else needs to be said.

YAY FRIDAY!

Finally

2010-07-08T22:32:00.000-06:00

If you're in Alberta, then you understand.... it's finally bloody summer and I couldn't be happier.

I want.....

2010-07-08T22:18:00.000-06:00

fadetoblack image

CLOGS!

like real bad.

Crazy Town

2010-07-06T16:57:00.001-06:00

I found these photo's today on the MCM blog from a photo shoot called "Models Go To Rehab". This is just the tip of the iceberg into the very odd photo shoot concept.... I won't lie, I laughed a lot. It just seems to ridiculous. Click HERE & scroll to see the rest of the....er... craziness.

A little kid in grown up clothing

2010-07-06T16:22:00.000-06:00

I received an email from some new website, LOOKVILLE last week stating they "loved my blog" and wanted me to be a member of this new beta site where you put up photo's of yourself and what you're wearing along with some ambiguous question about said outfit. It all felt a little funny but I already had these photo's so I gave it a whirl. After sitting there trying to think of a question, I settled on "Does this crochet crop top squish my boobs too much?" (every time I wear it, I'm continually pulling it down & over my dress underneath) . This was my favorite answer; "It makes you look like a little kid trying to dress like an adult" from a 50-60 year old lady dressed head to toe in American flag patterned clothing. Now, I must state I enjoy a little criticism, but when it comes to clothing, I rarely ask for an opinion. If I wanted to look like everyone else, or a Bruce Springsteen album cover, I would dress at the Gap - so thanks but no thanks old lady.

The whole concept of Lookville seems a little desperate and devoid of any self confidence. Although, I should be happy that a little check & balance does exist out there when someone puts on a belly top, mini skirt and 5" stilettos - however, I feel like the question should be "do I look like a prostitute in this?" and not "would hot pink heels be better?" but that's just my opinion.