tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74502845148909671212024-03-05T16:43:54.015-05:00Window Shopping Emporiumhunting for deals, drooling over designers, diy projects, and daily musingsLyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-1466244913622351282009-09-14T22:00:00.002-04:002009-09-14T22:02:06.779-04:00Anna Sui’s Target Collection Getting the Love<span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >The day every Gossip Girl Fashionista has been waiting for, <a href="http://www.target.com/gp/browse.html/?node=1294293011&ref=sc_iw_ss">Anna Sui’s Target collection</a> is finally online. Many reviews are already up, averaging around 4 stars. Many buyers were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the clothes. However, this collection is definitely on the pricier side. The dresses sell for $45 to $70, and the priciest items is a $150 leather jacket. Several people also noted that they had to go up a size, so if you are buying online, think about doing the same.<br /><br />I really think this collection is one of the most commercial/mainstream and best marketed. I could really see everyday girls wearing these clothes and easily incorporating them into their wardrobe. It also helps that the looks are based on a character. When you are looking at the slideshow of looks, I’m really seeing Serena, Blair, Jenny, and Vanessa. Du Juan (my favorite Asian model) cast as Blair made me smile. The only thing they have in common is the hair style, but somehow both exude elegance.<br /><br />The items I selected under ‘</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >My Picks</span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >’ not only look good in the pictures but scored excellent reviews. Many have interesting details but are not too bizarre that no one want to go out in public wearing it. Many collaborations sound good but they don’t always translate well commercially. I remember being so excited about Alexander McQueen’s Collection- he had an amazing Fall 2008 collection based on a story of a wood nymph- but his Target collaboration left me scratching my head. Tattoo print prom dresses, anyone?<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >My Picks</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TGtuFSpRQ0Lqdjrin2xC5Ux_C8bTnHCh_gZRjE5LPO6JdsiPyRRWyUGEFg94ANJe3iUXeTtI1sYmk4G1JquKbjhxCEomV5e65fb-n8PYLFAy5GU9aSDX1lKocUUvPRcZsvAG7EoeEQ/s1600-h/AnnaSui_Target_Seersucker.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4TGtuFSpRQ0Lqdjrin2xC5Ux_C8bTnHCh_gZRjE5LPO6JdsiPyRRWyUGEFg94ANJe3iUXeTtI1sYmk4G1JquKbjhxCEomV5e65fb-n8PYLFAy5GU9aSDX1lKocUUvPRcZsvAG7EoeEQ/s400/AnnaSui_Target_Seersucker.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381506027709483266" border="0" /></a>Satin Striped Seersucker Dress - $59.99<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsFfZaSK3tOKyvWpArjy0BFw0czmcGTGgFgMr3iMx6aIyfgUKiNCel9mmy6TFZAkmFK_XyWrZNtApYJBGQBEwHSLfl-HyYqGX_LdB5R_9o-w5PT1kw2LdqeRZvfeChDqxhT2bM9xb6fg/s1600-h/AnnaSui_Target_MetallicFeatherDress.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 362px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsFfZaSK3tOKyvWpArjy0BFw0czmcGTGgFgMr3iMx6aIyfgUKiNCel9mmy6TFZAkmFK_XyWrZNtApYJBGQBEwHSLfl-HyYqGX_LdB5R_9o-w5PT1kw2LdqeRZvfeChDqxhT2bM9xb6fg/s400/AnnaSui_Target_MetallicFeatherDress.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381506036351239522" border="0" /></a>Metallic Grey Feather Dress - $69.99<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Reminds me of <a href="http://www.style.com/slideshows/fashionshows/F2008RTW/BURBERRY/RUNWAY/00470m.jpg">Burberry Fall 2008 RTW</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirynDs1b4k2OyHRxSnbTh9Bj2DO38tV4v0oGxTBHtgoqGtHnqUlhoyM6AIjEWRRRq1PSu4AZoArGRgAaIIplbHITlWUCFUV9fajLkJ2HuZS9BKYECMJB0SuSjqTRgiGBWFh7rVvzaSckc/s1600-h/AnnaSui_Target_JacquardBlouse.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirynDs1b4k2OyHRxSnbTh9Bj2DO38tV4v0oGxTBHtgoqGtHnqUlhoyM6AIjEWRRRq1PSu4AZoArGRgAaIIplbHITlWUCFUV9fajLkJ2HuZS9BKYECMJB0SuSjqTRgiGBWFh7rVvzaSckc/s400/AnnaSui_Target_JacquardBlouse.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381506045744665586" border="0" /></a>Metallic Jacquard Ruffle Top - $39.99</span></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-50409396241608281882009-09-09T19:37:00.004-04:002009-09-09T19:42:56.673-04:00Blah and Busy<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Howdy folks, sorry about going skimpy on the blog but I’ve been feeling blah and busy. Sounds contradictory I know, but here’s why. So school started on August 25th and I decided to continue working part time for at least a little while because the pay is so great and the work is so not that bad. Of course that means I’ll be going to work before the crack of dawn and then working 7 hours before driving back and going to class. I’m out of the house for almost half the day. Of course when I’m not working/going to class, I melt into a puddle of blah. I have a friend who’s even worse. Every semester she takes 5 or 6 classes, works at least 20 hours a week and some of it’s unpaid, and is in at least 5 different organizations so she spends her evenings running around campus going to meetings or attending events. Yes the life of overachievers sucks. Yes, in fact it sucks the life out of us. Unlike her, I realize this kind of schedule is unsustainable so I’ve already told my boss that I’m leaving the company come mid-September. They’ve advertised the position and found a suitable replacement. I’m going to miss that place but quitting will definitely free up my schedule.</span> <div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><br />In the meantime, there's lots of fashion news I've been keeping an eye on. Spring 2010 NY Fashion Week is starting tomorrow!! I'm so excited even though I'm clearly no where near NYC, much less getting in to see the shows. However with my new iPhone, which is taking over my life, and Style.com's app, I can view the photos any place, any time. Which would be super for blogging if they get the pictures up promptly.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rmZT5r6Z1ME3pr2R4GoOmWmy6QnNpyjFftq06OelqYPPB4ioZY7nK7g0aSUE3A65fAh4TRoErkeQKZEV7qnfCk1ZiIL4cGw_9PvrFrZp0yNPYVoPawwU8KH2Jd-6L7qBv1SJr1Kwe0k/s1600-h/fashion-iphoneapp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rmZT5r6Z1ME3pr2R4GoOmWmy6QnNpyjFftq06OelqYPPB4ioZY7nK7g0aSUE3A65fAh4TRoErkeQKZEV7qnfCk1ZiIL4cGw_9PvrFrZp0yNPYVoPawwU8KH2Jd-6L7qBv1SJr1Kwe0k/s400/fashion-iphoneapp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379601902504335570" border="0" /></a>I'm also loving <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/under_the_influence/from_chloe_bags_to_le_cordon_b.php">this Refinery21 article on fashion and food bloggers</a> (I swear, my two favorite things). Great blogs like <a href="http://www.luxirare.com/">Luxirare</a>, <a href="http://www.maisondesreveries.com/">Maison des Reveries</a>, and <a href="http://cupcakesandcashmere.com/">Cupcakes and Cashmere</a> made the list. With a list this good, I'll definitely have to check out <a href="http://blushingambition.blogspot.com/">Blushing Ambition</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maayan_daily_photo/sets/72157594201080321/">Carb Lover Food Stylist</a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFIk5ZHD-PTJJgSyQcgMlX1S3jCL9VzrtC_f7bpdljd9e7td39uMpd1Naggmeqwmg6WQEFGLp9IP91BPaeUUp4WqAoE3FDa1-l7SlpeoW6mqGZft87SjBMTwlBBCicji3cfa7R2WZ6ZQ/s1600-h/BlushingAmbition.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 272px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFIk5ZHD-PTJJgSyQcgMlX1S3jCL9VzrtC_f7bpdljd9e7td39uMpd1Naggmeqwmg6WQEFGLp9IP91BPaeUUp4WqAoE3FDa1-l7SlpeoW6mqGZft87SjBMTwlBBCicji3cfa7R2WZ6ZQ/s400/BlushingAmbition.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379613220657650050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Blushing Ambition</span><br /></div><br />I always love high-low collaboration, if not the clothing, at least the idea. The latest one that caught my eye is the <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaticPageDisplay?catalogId=32051&storeId=13052&brdcrmb_trail=&identifier=tsus1%20christopher%20kane%20map&cmpid=ck11_51">Christopher Kane for Topshop</a> collection. The stuff looks amazing! ... And is also priced between $80-$300. Yikes, that's way out of my budget. To quote <a href="http://www.nbcnewyork.com/blogs/the-thread/Jimmy-Choo-for-HM---Leaked-Photo-56597562.html">Kelly O'Reilly from the Thread</a>: "With collaborations becoming almost generic, it would be a tragedy if their original appeal - designer designs at non-designer prices - fell by the wayside."<br /><br />If you want to be in the know about all upcoming high-low collabs, definitely follow <a href="http://www.nitrolicious.com/blog">Nitrolicious</a>. That update bunny has the best and earliest coverage.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3GpbFrhrFILB6DzRyjZ0Z_fEPDyYmPPe5e7mKvJPMXCMO7vvo5NU0xSlPFaDtJWDkj3yqazkTPoMqW0-uHLAtAqXUjhBNkmadLtn0t9OZvv9HwXnAzC-vtrezvGRkJeISLQFU_h8bOE/s1600-h/christopher_kane_topshop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 272px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3GpbFrhrFILB6DzRyjZ0Z_fEPDyYmPPe5e7mKvJPMXCMO7vvo5NU0xSlPFaDtJWDkj3yqazkTPoMqW0-uHLAtAqXUjhBNkmadLtn0t9OZvv9HwXnAzC-vtrezvGRkJeISLQFU_h8bOE/s400/christopher_kane_topshop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379609983847746354" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">As amazing as this collection is, I'm still holding out for Rodarte for Target coming this December! What designer collaborations are you excited about?</span><br /></div></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-1383842988182642792009-08-18T08:25:00.003-04:002009-08-18T08:25:00.298-04:00August Giveaways from around the Web<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk-fXafggu-vgc6CLjcOB9wpC5-6HxeZQ04Uh1Y0RP1FPsX2MG2Vd0VwjniofvYkiEm9KXL1K3fbIqmEBLG7FLFwAQqmE2WoSDjXr5kJvGsfkdILaRfoIS1ZE-1H50TMttEc5TYJTWnM/s1600-h/giveaways.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk-fXafggu-vgc6CLjcOB9wpC5-6HxeZQ04Uh1Y0RP1FPsX2MG2Vd0VwjniofvYkiEm9KXL1K3fbIqmEBLG7FLFwAQqmE2WoSDjXr5kJvGsfkdILaRfoIS1ZE-1H50TMttEc5TYJTWnM/s400/giveaways.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371050837977280738" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lucky Mag Giveaways (</span><a href="http://www.luckymag.com/breaks/luckysweeps/index/index_20090702"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">August</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> and </span><a href="http://www.luckymag.com/breaks/luckysweeps"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">September</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">)<br />Only 1 entry per giveaway. If you register on Luckymag.com, you can cut down on the data entry. It may be worth it because there are 25 giveaways for September alone!!<br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.teenvogue.com/contests"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Teen Vogue Mag</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />They have a calendar of giveaways (a giveaway every day of the month). The one on August 18th is especially good.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.elle.com/Sweepstakes"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Elle</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> and </span><a href="http://ellegirl.elle.com/win"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Elle Girl</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> Mag<br />Many prizes up for grabs but keep in mind the different deadlines. It's 1 entry per day. Franky that's a little annoying for a $20 prize.</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.starmagazine.com/sweeps/1910"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lifetime Project Runway Sweepstakes</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (8/14/09 - 8/23/09)<br />Win a limited-edition Project Runway sewing machine, a Michael Kors Astor chain satchel, a gift card to Mood Designer Fabrics, and more. One entry per person.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://loft.promo.eprize.com/peoplestylewatch/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">People Watch $1500 Shopping Spree from Ann Taylor Loft and People</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (7/17/08 - 8/31/09)<br />A trip for two to NYC, a shopping spree, and personal styling session. Can enter 1 time per day.<br /></span><a href="http://www.condenastdirect.com/lucky/luckyshops_sweep09/"><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lucky Shops Giveaway</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (8/11/09 - 9/8/09)<br />Two flight tickets to NYC, $1000 shopping spree, and $500 Ed Hardy Fragrances basket. One entry total per person.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://condenast.promo.eprize.com/fashionnightout/?affiliate_id=1d"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Fashion's Night Out Shopping Spree</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (8/11/09 - 9/11/09)<br />You can enter 1 time per day and there 8 prizes, with gift cards from many different stores, each worth over $5000. Pretty awesome if you ask me.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Note</span>- If you or anyone in your immediate family works in fashion retail (</span><a href="http://condenast.promo.eprize.com/fashionnightout/display_page?page=rules"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">see complete list</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">), you are not valid for entry.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/user/registerforemail.jhtml"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Neiman Marcus $5000 Sergio Rossi Shopping Spree</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (7/15/09 - 9/15/09)<br />The usual sign up for their mailing list and you are entered to win. 1 entry total per person.</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><a href="http://scripts.newfangled.com/PLAY/">100 ml Bottle of PLAY fragrance autographed by Justin Timberlake</a></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (8/13/09 - 10/6/09)<br />You can enter once every 7 days. A winner will be selected every week, with 12 winners total.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.destinationweddingmag.com/contest.jsp?ID=1000000270"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Beauty Travel Kit Sweepstakes</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (ends 10/18/09)<br />Different sets of beauty products worth $125 - $250 are up for grabs. 20 are available but 1 entry per household.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/store/user/registerforemail.jhtml?icid=footerLinks"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Bergdorf Goodman $5000 Shopping Spree</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (7/31/09 - 10/30/09)<br />The usual sign up for their mailing list and you are entered to win. 1 entry total per person.<br /><br /></span><a href="http://luckyatyourservice.luckylookout.com/index.php/luckyays/register/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lucky At Your Service Sweepstakes</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (7/1/09 - 1/31/10)<br />There's a $2,500, $1,500, and $1000 shopping spree up for grabs. Only one entry total per person.<br /><br />If there are other great giveaways, leave me a link in the comment section and I'll add it to this list.<br /></span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-85161022109372743142009-08-17T12:05:00.000-04:002009-08-17T12:12:35.855-04:00Chanel- Behind the Scenes Footage<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">If you ask any young girl obsessed with fashion what's her favorite designer brand, you can bet 9 times out of 10, she answers Chanel. Chanel has always been synonymous with impeccable taste and class. It's no wonder when you look at some of the intricate detailing Chanel tailors put into one dress. It's a eye squinting, finger pricking, meticulous process to get from a piece of cloth to an outfit worth of the runway.<br /><br /></span><iframe src="http://videos.nymag.com/embed/player/?content=GPVWYS23VMRJ55Q1&widget_type_cid=svp&title_height=24" frameborder="0" width="416" scrolling="no" height="315"></iframe>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-69724338820998847832009-08-16T09:57:00.000-04:002009-08-16T09:57:58.469-04:00You Sure Know How to Push My Buttons Style.com<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">And not in a good way this time. Usually Style.com is one of my favorite websites because it covers all of the major fashion shows. Also I sometimes go through the Style File Blog for quick fashion news. As I was skimming through the posts on Style File today, I spotted "</span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.style.com/stylefile/2009/08/win-a-stylecom-internship/">Win A Style.com Internship</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">". Huh, sounds like a pretty interesting sweepstakes. I read a few more lines and I go from excited to down right pissed. The whole thing is an </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="https://auction01.charitybuzz.com/secure/viewItemDetail.do?auction_item_id=99154&lotsindex=0&show=10&order=default">auction</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> where you bid to work for free and they have to audacity to value the</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">'opportunity' at $2500. Sure you get college credit and the money goes to charity but that's a complete rip off. Not to mention internships should be filled by people who work for them not people who can pay for them!! Style.com/Vogue is in the business of pawning off overpriced designer goods that nobody actually needs (as much as we feel we need), but to actually pawn off work is unbelievable. Also, this is a style.com internship not even a Vogue internship. To quote, you will be "assist[ing] the editors with the fashion closet, trafficking samples, requesting product, assisting photo shoots, helping out during fashion week in New York". The only people who would be willing to pay for this must be the rich parents of NY trust fund babies. Yeah, I can totally see Jessie from </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.bravotv.com/nyc-prep/">NYC Prep</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> doing this.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">On a complete utter tangent, Bravo put up </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.bravotv.com/full-episodes">full episodes</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> of NYC Prep online so I can brain mush my weekend away.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RlNYJGb6g10LoauejPibkx7ud_dR8YvWBh9naPWTANgsEMQKUKJlaYim0C1hYSU3W5oJGxX7Hc-QeMlVwat6yVAew8ivzS-n5M7O-IG4ubcFRIBOjDda7Lli4CtNnlQkPVO0AFpyknE/s1600-h/styleinternship.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RlNYJGb6g10LoauejPibkx7ud_dR8YvWBh9naPWTANgsEMQKUKJlaYim0C1hYSU3W5oJGxX7Hc-QeMlVwat6yVAew8ivzS-n5M7O-IG4ubcFRIBOjDda7Lli4CtNnlQkPVO0AFpyknE/s400/styleinternship.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370556671715122866" border="0" /></a>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-76320460033014875652009-08-13T11:07:00.007-04:002009-08-13T11:53:20.236-04:00Beauty Samples: Grab 'em before they're gone!<center><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQ94fgjd97qS7qsWdVERBjQS6ZFsMgC_GsKWqAlo6hQTwha1pXMtZd_Xs1dA1tGTNlWgClUMXL8S8PizE7riZul88LqXgSzfu6iZ8zmqlMMugVjn2J9YjMLEk88IS6IJ_3FTHSyVzDJs/s1600/Samples.JPG" /></span></center><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">A) </span><a href="http://www.startsampling.com/sm/100930"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Burt’s Bees Natural Acne Solutions</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br />B) </span><a href="http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid73684.aspx"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Bodycology Lotion</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br />C) </span><a href="http://www.johnfrieda.com/event.asp?eventcode=jf_djsample&action=entry&sod=jf"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">John Freida Brilliante Brunette Liquid Shine Illuminating Shampoo (.28 oz) and Conditioner (.28 oz)</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br />D) </span><a href="http://www.escada-fragrances.com/desireme/en/get-your-free-sample/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Escada Desire Me Perfume Sample</span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> </span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-9414456394100589332009-08-12T11:52:00.002-04:002009-08-12T12:07:32.249-04:00Trip to the County Fair<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Last weekend, a friend and I took a trip to the county fair. I had never been to a county fair so I was very excited to see the llamas and fancy chickens, buy local produce, and of course, ride the carnival rides. The fairground was about 15 minutes away in a beautiful country setting. I always like to joke that I lived ‘next to the middle of nowhere’, to which my friend replies, “No, we live on the edge of nowhere”. But it’s true- drive 10 miles in any direction and you will start seeing farms.<br /><br />As we parked the car, I noticed the car beside us was an antique and clearly someone’s baby. “Do not touch” was scribbled on a piece of paper on the windshield.<br /><br /></span><a title="Vintage Car by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3790458370/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="323" alt="Vintage Car" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3508/3790458370_32d03ea439.jpg" width="430" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br />We hurried on inside because the llama competition was starting. In the very last white tent, several llamas were being judged in a large pen. While the llamas were being led around the pen, I happily snapped up pictures.<br /><br /></span><a title="Spotted Llama by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3790399952/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="499" alt="Spotted Llama" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3583/3790399952_39527d574a_o.jpg" width="430" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> </span><br /><center><a title="Chestnut Llama 2 by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3789585849/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="500" alt="Chestnut Llama 2" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3556/3789585849_0eeb170f08_o.jpg" width="369" /></span></a></center><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I had never seen a spotted llama before so I thought it would win because of the novelty. I also loved a chestnut colored llama because of its beautiful face markings.<br /><br /></span><a title="Llama Profile by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3789585921/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="323" alt="Llama Profile" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3477/3789585921_85f06a8755_o.jpg" width="430" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><center><span style="font-size:85%;">Isn’t he photogenic?</span></center><br />To my surprise, the spotted llama came in last. It turns out that 4-H competitions are more about handling than the breeding of the animal, and that spotted llama was not well behaved at all. The judge even made a comment that the animal “just didn’t want to be here”.<br /><br />We took a look at some of the other tents. The largest animal at the fair had to be the draft horse. Its torso was as tall as my head. When I stuck my camera between the rails to take a picture, the horse nudged at me with its huge head, probably thinking I had food. It was very intimidating! Ironically, the miniature horses were in the next pen over.<br /><br /></div></span><center><a title="Draft Horse 1 by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3790400088/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="500" alt="Draft Horse 1" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3587/3790400088_4b74f362bf_o.jpg" width="375" /></span></a></center><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I also really enjoyed the fancy chickens. Unlike your normal egg-laying or at-the-crack-of-dawn-crowing fowls, these hens and roosters are more colorful, have feathery feet, or have unique hairdos.<br /><br /></span><a title="Fancy Chicken by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3789586291/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="323" alt="Fancy Chicken" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3598/3789586291_c0e967b220.jpg" width="430" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><center><span style="font-size:85%;">I called the rooster to the left Jefferson and behind him is Washington.</span></center><br />The trip was fun but exhausting. The sun beating down was making me dizzy, sweaty, and dehydrated. After purchasing some delicious blackberries, I was ready to go home. We said goodbye to the fairgrounds, but not before taking one last shot.<br /><br /></span><a title="Leaving by Lyralie, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lyralie/3789643405/"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img height="323" alt="Leaving" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/3789643405_a5c2e4dcfb.jpg" width="430" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> </span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-45774796510485599682009-08-11T11:13:00.001-04:002009-08-11T11:13:01.028-04:00The Dazzling (Nineteen) Twenties<div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ruWTnuF161q3gLdbwHIGjMeFBx7DpjMZEYzVsrQ4P2wT_XYEFguMSIBOpX4N_j8YfAnFlyyC0HEXgmD57uiFHIZPeeQ87sTchkFrxk4zMhcYmiWeGuXOKbgH18Mgn1o-HIW-7kjyeC4/s1600-h/Chicago.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 353px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ruWTnuF161q3gLdbwHIGjMeFBx7DpjMZEYzVsrQ4P2wT_XYEFguMSIBOpX4N_j8YfAnFlyyC0HEXgmD57uiFHIZPeeQ87sTchkFrxk4zMhcYmiWeGuXOKbgH18Mgn1o-HIW-7kjyeC4/s400/Chicago.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368535811817194434" border="0" /></a><a href="http://castorkr.wordpress.com/2008/03/13/chicago/"><span style="font-size:85%;">Chicago (film)<br /></span></a></div><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">If I could be alive in any era just for the fashion, it would during the 1920s in America. I love the flapper "uniform"- short hems, beads, and feathers. Girls with short bobs and no inhibition. People letting loose and dancing. The 20s exude fun and glamour- at least on the surface. Since time travel is out of the question, it's a bit of a moot point trying to imagine living in that era. However an afternoon of online window shopping yielded some surprising 1920s-inspired treasures so I'll indulge in fantasy a bit more. Because of the recycling of trends and influences in fashion, some of today's designers are interpreting the flapper with modern twist.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuVPXItPs_U2kejNgrSI0CrNfilSxH622FcR6QDLttzzVsQnJhZsMeFCquAMFsYD24kzSMuUUY6UbAe6065BI9eRAAjLnOSp6X_KJsIe6IBGPVaI8tcHfyXqejqhs_xdw0ukQzE3lh9qg/s1600-h/SantiClutch.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuVPXItPs_U2kejNgrSI0CrNfilSxH622FcR6QDLttzzVsQnJhZsMeFCquAMFsYD24kzSMuUUY6UbAe6065BI9eRAAjLnOSp6X_KJsIe6IBGPVaI8tcHfyXqejqhs_xdw0ukQzE3lh9qg/s400/SantiClutch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363427620901218642" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.gilt.com/s/personaloffers/product/13669653">Santi Beaded Clutch</a>- $84.00<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://chickdowntown.com/images/temp/e9785b31570f831fc82bcf2f01b98f33.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 600px;" src="http://chickdowntown.com/images/temp/e9785b31570f831fc82bcf2f01b98f33.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://chickdowntown.com/viewproduct.asp?ID=133274">Gryphon Feather Dress</a>-$644.00<br /><br /><br /><center><img style="width: 400px; height: 522px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJS97TLgSP9FQuujob0Y3Li4xEDci7r0SpkXuXKgIJhVbFdtlrGY4VrK0QA3WFE3WspOfxSyHUm_HFsHkHk-2ekZrmLn7E7fmRSuziUnbicc6VCyHCIIVBAyP7VQjFNLu_EBCYBDIzQ0M/s1600/verawangnecklace.jpg" /></center><br /><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod91260003">Vera Wang Beaded Necklace</a>- $850.00<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Every girl needs some razzle-dazzle. Just one of the items above would make any outfit pop, but together...<br /></div></div><br /><br /><br /><center style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi79VYomxR27U1giYaYlqBGKbSOLVvICmFDiNpnX83FtkLqCXsyjddrD1N2LvnFqiIy1NW81L7Nnfzni2ZsM9ZFCUHcpv_P8vCXNg0Hvz9PErSFK4njoD88NPfjgqrkbcghfpLyBax9ZM/s1600/gryphon_feather_dress_together.jpg" /></center><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">... I think I just about died (from sparkle overdose) and went to heaven.</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-84995862389465051342009-08-05T19:28:00.001-04:002009-08-05T20:48:22.791-04:00Shoe and Bag Eye Candy<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGRspyvgmvmDk46jmAOAKn35mQa-4SzHHB6Tk0kN94xKOQSfTBPOzdwpiA2aC1c_w-S52bUS1Bz0cM6vhQMFsVd14M4on6UKVNdypdlt1pzCd51WjqBtCRZbXjyXgbcgXYKU23N5XULA/s1600/CandyShoes&Bags.jpg" />Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-25316476586780855492009-08-05T17:55:00.001-04:002009-08-05T18:02:59.222-04:00Suffering from Food Shows Withdrawal, Saved by Hulu<a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr60mcMfVOrCOnGKdzzIK2qwVqcM88XsY1tLbIj_vxOn00ZPb0yMg1_aIAWCSj4RqX9X7d71bJBcGnNOF0Ni7Im7xW2Ht3Xqd2j_K12m9Ldf1628tPgkHOTsLkBQk6yk-0e9-_uRK8h8/s1600-h/iron_chef_mario.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 218px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr60mcMfVOrCOnGKdzzIK2qwVqcM88XsY1tLbIj_vxOn00ZPb0yMg1_aIAWCSj4RqX9X7d71bJBcGnNOF0Ni7Im7xW2Ht3Xqd2j_K12m9Ldf1628tPgkHOTsLkBQk6yk-0e9-_uRK8h8/s400/iron_chef_mario.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366589079617840562" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My new apartment has everything I need- my own room, proximity to classes, a large walk-in closet, and a parking space. However, one thing I am giving up is cable TV. I was TV-less for over a month before my mom bought me a nice flat screen for my birthday. Being rather thrifty, I really didn’t want to pay $30+ for cable or dish when I only watch three channels, Food Network, Travel Channel, and Bravo. Instead I made a one time purchase of a digital antenna. Once installed, I could watch the basic network channels (ABC, NBC, CBS) and tons of PBS. Unfortunately this wasn’t enough to satisfy my craving for food shows. I really missed competition food shows like Top Chef, educational shows like Good Eats, and shows that feature food from around the world (Anthony Bourdain and Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern). Sure PBS has numerous cooking shows that teach you how to create simple meals, but I just like to look at good food not make them!<br /><br />Then I turned to </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.hulu.com/">Hulu</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> for some more variety. Unfortunately my favorite networks had many snippets but few episodes, which makes sense because who would pay if they could watch everything online. With some browsing, I found several shows that are giving me my food show fix. One of them is called </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.hulu.com/great-cocktails">Great Cocktails</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The premise of the show is to teach viewers how to make great cocktail intertwined with a bit of history and tips from professional bartenders. It has Alton Brown’s fun facts (of Good Eats) and Iron Chef’s flair. I mean they lit alcohol on fire within the first 2 minutes of the first episode! I’m really excited about this show because I’ve always wanted to learn how to make cocktails. Now that I’m 21, I can finally make and enjoy some tasty alcoholic beverages.</span><br /><br /><object style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" width="433" height="249"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/ohBdttm5eqexKpswTmrkBg"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/ohBdttm5eqexKpswTmrkBg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="433" height="249"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">PBS has a show called </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.hulu.com/gourmets-diary-of-a-foodie">Gourmet’s Diary of a Foodie</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">. Like Anthony Bourdain and Bizarre foods, Diary of a Foodie takes a look at the foods found around the globe. People eat some marvelously strange things and I drool while watching them. I mentally tally all the things </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >I have to try</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> when I travel.</span><br /><br /><object style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" width="433" height="249"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/tIwf0XqZSHJVzf6FBQJx2w"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/tIwf0XqZSHJVzf6FBQJx2w" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="433" height="249"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Another show on my '</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">To-Watch</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">' list is </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.hulu.com/three-sheets">Three Sheets</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">. To my surprise, Hulu offers full episodes of several Mojo shows. I’ve actually watched Three Sheets before, but not regularly. My Dad remarked it was a good show but I usually stuck with my Food Network. Three Sheets follows Zane Lamprey, the human alcohol processor, around the world as he samples the local beers, wines, gins, whiskey- you name it, he’s tried it. It’s really funny to watch more than anything, and it helps that Zane is a comedian. A great show for the 20s crowd.<br /><br /></span><br /><object style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" width="433" height="249"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/GiWqnsVBQ9C_ZhSshSu6eg"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/GiWqnsVBQ9C_ZhSshSu6eg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="433" height="249"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It's really sad that I finally have a nice big TV but nothing good to watch. I'm waiting for the fall prime time to start up so I can at least watch Grey's Anatomy. In the meantime, food shows on Hulu will be how I spend my evenings. The hard part is limiting how much I watch. </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Must not watch 20 episodes in one night!</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-82519488951736865452009-08-01T14:51:00.000-04:002009-08-01T14:51:00.475-04:00Tim Gunn (my Hero)<a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/05/21/fashion/21row-500.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 330px; height: 500px;" src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/05/21/fashion/21row-500.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">It's a crazy world when my favorite </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: trebuchet ms;">reality</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> show host is turned into a 2-D action super hero. Actually, it feels like an extension of Modelinia's </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.modelinia.com/videos/spiked-heel--trailer/115">Spiked Heel</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> episodes (supermodels as superheros- starring the one and only Heidi Klum). I love you Tim Gunn, but this is getting too weird. If you're interested in what the comic is going to be about, check out the </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/fashion/21ROW.html">New York Times article</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">.</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-63849628606063321312009-07-29T12:05:00.003-04:002009-07-29T18:35:51.759-04:00Geeks Unite<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Satisfy your inner geek with these quirky, but functional items. They can be worn, make your sofa more comfortable, or even clean, not to mention add character. Your guests will surely take a second look at your Ctrl+Alt+Delete pillows. Of course if you don't want to flaunt your geekiness, you can always give them away as gifts. Who doesn't want Playstation controller soap?</span><br /><div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363916549418601122" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 370px; height: 283px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SnVwYqqd8RcQgPtduRimxMrR9S6wlnlTeDTxsAdeYwms-QI7FG1db6wLarKjHd-0uPOLUOOoJk8wlsOAOw8YLxb6wFmmIVQ74NDluQ8eac7mz3NdNEbA-uXk4fm_fxJfV-MS-bMjEZc/s400/ice-invaders-img3.jpg" border="0" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fred-and-Friends-Ice-Invaders/dp/B001TKNQME">Fred and Friends Ice Invaders</a>: $7.50<br /></div><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.68712629.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; cursor: pointer; height: 258px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.68712629.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23438495">Ctrl - Alt - Del Three Pillow Set</a>: $58.00<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://shopimages-pe.delias.com/156395_yel_w.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 300px; cursor: pointer; height: 425px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://shopimages-pe.delias.com/156395_yel_w.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://store.delias.com/item.do?itemID=51481&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-tbT6lOx61heo3fIBlaIAbg">Nerdy Giraffe Tee</a>: $24.50<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bravespacedesign.com/gallery/pics/gall_tet_flat8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; cursor: pointer; height: 301px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://www.bravespacedesign.com/gallery/pics/gall_tet_flat8.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.bravespacedesign.com/product_tetrad_flat.php">Brave Space Design Tetris Bookcase</a>- Pricing upon request<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.74303835.jpg"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363918154444163442" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQqnJtW1jCAx5odHt8gzJD8I6AJ9PThrSAm8geg0o1dKKjZOacuhFrkRx3PxFEvOnd_zHzoZKHKmaaJ6QRjynY7KCgTtqc7p0UOub7KmZJCMxUT2K2d5y8dhPUHbSr8XYBu6NXZ3IDyU/s400/il_430xN.74303835.jpg" border="0" /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26115069">Realistic Xbox Controller Replica Soap</a> : $12.00 </div></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-68740189121656076462009-07-29T11:58:00.002-04:002009-08-13T11:52:32.386-04:00Free Lacoste Perfume Samples<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMx22f7Q1TwWYD_8WVB11J7buLdmbfB1mReTTXHk_DMkftmygUsRJsoVj2AnWGU_Av9fbGEG1ZiO7sRAHQduZWvqLTfMiWCFL9-CD4A9CMJ7Lieb8AcPE-lXHGcJH23vRJJ7I0bdF5kYE/s1600-h/lacoste_touchofpink.jpg"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363911583510023778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 301px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMx22f7Q1TwWYD_8WVB11J7buLdmbfB1mReTTXHk_DMkftmygUsRJsoVj2AnWGU_Av9fbGEG1ZiO7sRAHQduZWvqLTfMiWCFL9-CD4A9CMJ7Lieb8AcPE-lXHGcJH23vRJJ7I0bdF5kYE/s400/lacoste_touchofpink.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I’m not really a perfume girl. Most of them come off too strong for me and it’s not something I would routinely use so most of the bottle would be wasted. Instead I actually prefer the scent of my shampoo (Herbal Essence has some of the best smelling shampoo and conditioner out there). However, I do like to collect little perfume samples which I can spray on when I’m in the mood or spray on cards I give to friends. If you like perfume samples too, Lacoste is giving out samples of <span style="color:#333399;"><strong>Lacoste Challenge</strong></span>, <span style="color:#cc66cc;"><strong>Lacoste Touch of Pink</strong></span>, and <span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>Lacoste Love of Pink</strong></span>. All you would need to provide is your name, email, and address.<br /><br />Lacoste Scent Samples: <a href="http://www.lacoste-parfums.com/free-sample/">http://www.lacoste-parfums.com/free-sample/</a></span></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-70780418281049426632009-07-22T19:10:00.001-04:002009-08-17T11:05:27.964-04:00What I'm into Now<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_vpX47vdvjL_3BM1nbtRSJoqp0EiJaKDr4w1xqnB1Ix3dqyLUsk3HypmtvEM5ceV4o3tx1JSJBU143qsh3odepSvphLAUU23u3a12KVleYmdNC2yk_1gin4Sfzy7KuOH1ya4JG1U6Ew/s1600-h/bunnies.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361411100612660466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_vpX47vdvjL_3BM1nbtRSJoqp0EiJaKDr4w1xqnB1Ix3dqyLUsk3HypmtvEM5ceV4o3tx1JSJBU143qsh3odepSvphLAUU23u3a12KVleYmdNC2yk_1gin4Sfzy7KuOH1ya4JG1U6Ew/s400/bunnies.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My Facebook friend is enjoying her summer in China. She post some pictures of bunny shaped mochi dim sum. I can't decide if I want to eat it or pet it- but I know I want it.</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMG-LAQCmLRq_tlZ2W26ITi6w1gSQj49m2lVDa100Mk8hEg8F7WovX3pXzclZlkxyy68cqueV44LvfJ-7C3IyoEC0wlrL6Poi0GNsc2uYkPMmJmnu4tFJXdXtJ6oWq8uarD2O5UZLmZ8/s1600-h/taghrid_ok.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361410207402420498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 264px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMG-LAQCmLRq_tlZ2W26ITi6w1gSQj49m2lVDa100Mk8hEg8F7WovX3pXzclZlkxyy68cqueV44LvfJ-7C3IyoEC0wlrL6Poi0GNsc2uYkPMmJmnu4tFJXdXtJ6oWq8uarD2O5UZLmZ8/s400/taghrid_ok.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHVAYleeb1mfndO7tF07mpbDecrTm9qKe_zCY1z9doQK6gSsuGSRUZWFTOSKl0p9gd2YGWk2si_zKZZIbhTpzgrCESK8xfvBKhpSw5SwuyUjFguM2tYZXBmEOeTYpXvC8qZYr1DHq3Wg/s1600-h/taghrid_apathy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361410208187279570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHVAYleeb1mfndO7tF07mpbDecrTm9qKe_zCY1z9doQK6gSsuGSRUZWFTOSKl0p9gd2YGWk2si_zKZZIbhTpzgrCESK8xfvBKhpSw5SwuyUjFguM2tYZXBmEOeTYpXvC8qZYr1DHq3Wg/s400/taghrid_apathy.jpg" border="0" /></a><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.taghrid.cc/2009/05/apathy.html">Taghrid</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">'s desktop background worthy photo shoot for </span><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.piknikmag.com/" target="_blank">PIKNIK Magazine</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">.</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.78352212.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 342px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.78352212.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Recently I've been obsessed with Tiffany blue. In my fantasy future house/apartment, I want to have Tiffany blue walls with white columns and crown molding. Hanging in the dining room, will be this </span><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27310621">romantic blue chandelier</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> (too bad someone bought it already).</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAT3_tnIRH_GqHFQcZD0kcNkeu1vIUbq7qjW8TBKe_8dvkUYCYbbeU4RUKlWuTxNnSZqXhlTxmCgvdCTyeUT-hGLTfvB_LAGBA1PbXz-tvb39xIrItHNghR-npW7V2SegVoEObqcpPdE/s1600-h/paper_craft_castle_9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361420155391587074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAT3_tnIRH_GqHFQcZD0kcNkeu1vIUbq7qjW8TBKe_8dvkUYCYbbeU4RUKlWuTxNnSZqXhlTxmCgvdCTyeUT-hGLTfvB_LAGBA1PbXz-tvb39xIrItHNghR-npW7V2SegVoEObqcpPdE/s400/paper_craft_castle_9.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">A castle made of paper = hundreds of hours of meticulous work. Definitely check out </span><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://tokyobling.wordpress.com/2009/07/01/a-paper-craft-castle-on-the-ocean/">Tokyobling's blog</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> for more breathtaking images.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOHfYv427tX8ENAXDQDWgzmMBLURzINUrwxND47GO99R0KB-Nwpi-3X-YqsGrPbbgxMShx-jqGFL2B7brOms9005yA7_EcFgb4YRqaaLaTSjOi2ptgQhQs-LKaA1WWj4mYpN2m_5g8Tc/s1600-h/nm_russia3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361410197214750178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 284px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOHfYv427tX8ENAXDQDWgzmMBLURzINUrwxND47GO99R0KB-Nwpi-3X-YqsGrPbbgxMShx-jqGFL2B7brOms9005yA7_EcFgb4YRqaaLaTSjOi2ptgQhQs-LKaA1WWj4mYpN2m_5g8Tc/s400/nm_russia3.jpg" border="0" /></a><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?uEm=rc5pd@virginia.edu&ncx=n&issue=416089334&ecid=NMECRetailthebookfall&o=ext">Neiman Marcus' digital catalogue</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> usually has some cute spreads. I'm loving the one for Chanel's Pre-Fall 09 collection (pg 48). The Russian themed spread includes adorable Russian nesting dolls with Chanel logos for buttons. The video will bring a smile to your face, as it did to mine.</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUaPs6KIoCoKbvSpWn2ktPJUL2HqPzEJ29swdZGxs3g74cwohsVWMigCVpS2DGY24CyKgKt1BoNWC4GqYeHDug98wxaqYr-aJAWkVWA2qq4xveP1LUBO5q9ODX-PC7wNlH61WxbjtwBg/s1600-h/bg.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361410193509913554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUaPs6KIoCoKbvSpWn2ktPJUL2HqPzEJ29swdZGxs3g74cwohsVWMigCVpS2DGY24CyKgKt1BoNWC4GqYeHDug98wxaqYr-aJAWkVWA2qq4xveP1LUBO5q9ODX-PC7wNlH61WxbjtwBg/s400/bg.jpg" border="0" /></a><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.visualeconomics.com/how-the-average-us-consumer-spends-their-paycheck/">How The Average U.S. Consumer Spends Their Paycheck</a><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm very interested in personal spending and being thrifty so I regularly check out </span><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.wisebread.com/">Wisebread</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> and </span><a style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms" href="http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/">Get Rich Slowly</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">. This was on GRS and it was amazing to see where average American families spend their money. Can you believe that we spend almost the same amount for groceries as we do for restaurant food?</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-36199996840502694812009-07-16T17:25:00.000-04:002009-07-16T17:25:00.634-04:00DIY Chain and Ribbon Woven Necklaces<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">A couple of Christmases ago, I received a chain link necklace with crown charm. The necklace really wasn’t to my tastes. It had a Juicy Couture-ish appeal and I got a thing against brands that stick their label on the hinny area of gym pants. I decided to throw away the charm but keep the perfectly good chain. It was a bit boring on its own so I wanted to find a different pendant but it needed to be hefty pendant with a large hole in order to hang in on the chain. Of course I didn’t own such a pendant. Instead, I soon forgot about it and the necklace stayed in my jewelry case gathering dust.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Inspiration</span><br /><br /></div><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUudT59TRDzGy0iY8vTbc2KUFUztML88rMnn0VU0ZjmNKbdDCh-AmIR07pgEV2_ZIBzrY5V8wxea8nY2AyDpWqxQwUzK8M0nXtSOreNCqDQjVvnX4yzOaU6sJfZYX5etxu1VjiTnzsnT4/s1600-h/wovenribbonnecklace2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUudT59TRDzGy0iY8vTbc2KUFUztML88rMnn0VU0ZjmNKbdDCh-AmIR07pgEV2_ZIBzrY5V8wxea8nY2AyDpWqxQwUzK8M0nXtSOreNCqDQjVvnX4yzOaU6sJfZYX5etxu1VjiTnzsnT4/s400/wovenribbonnecklace2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359167985241352738" border="0" /></a><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCEB5hN4BgrdqP1AyhSZ_gcjz4aI1OGiKsUyuoHFKJi4qw58jab4P86cJ1febJg-eqP3olbYMLEN_ipRFlcquR5hHqtdPujpB7InqD363KOdAsBeSGrldbAO0TVeDG9MOI87OEj9kyx4/s1600-h/wovenribbonnecklace.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCEB5hN4BgrdqP1AyhSZ_gcjz4aI1OGiKsUyuoHFKJi4qw58jab4P86cJ1febJg-eqP3olbYMLEN_ipRFlcquR5hHqtdPujpB7InqD363KOdAsBeSGrldbAO0TVeDG9MOI87OEj9kyx4/s400/wovenribbonnecklace.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359167985488981570" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">A few weeks ago, Gilt was selling woven ribbon necklaces by Lulu Frost. The chain was interwoven with brightly colored satin ribbon and tied with bows. They were adorable and inspired me to finally do something funky and chic with my chain necklace.</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Supplies</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5S8xmgSXIv5k9IgWxaRa7V0_4llZ_lCgt7VCvE2ej2Ss9AL5kNnZ_6YWxL8cbeRLnmiS6BT8Eq27XSHrXcrKB2HUyMZhBHo0srvawFCjvyOZWcHvYuXnfukFwJxXZxgsKsTEasodpts/s1600-h/IMG_1133.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5S8xmgSXIv5k9IgWxaRa7V0_4llZ_lCgt7VCvE2ej2Ss9AL5kNnZ_6YWxL8cbeRLnmiS6BT8Eq27XSHrXcrKB2HUyMZhBHo0srvawFCjvyOZWcHvYuXnfukFwJxXZxgsKsTEasodpts/s400/IMG_1133.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359167991114870962" border="0" /></a>A chain necklace<br />Colorful ribbon that is at least twice as long as the chain<br />A bit of tape<br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Instructions<br /><br /></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">1) Taper one end of the ribbon with the tape. This will make the ribbon easier to weave in between the links.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">2) Take the chain necklace and pull the ribbon through the first link. Make sure to pull enough of the ribbon through. I recommend at least the necklace and a half length of ribbon.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">3) Begin weaving the ribbon into a pattern. To do this I straightened out the chain so the first link lies flat, the second link is on its side, and the rest of the links alternate in that pattern. I threaded the ribbon from bottom to up for the 1st, 3rd, 5th, etc links and the right to left for the 2nd, 4th, 6th, etc links. Of course you can also choose to weave randomly but I liked the braid-like weave my pattern created.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizu0CypNhCbLDxkDeO77eRLJUxKmd9rBWCM3EfhBBGoQD3M-k1QI_2Cx6_uYAPlSZlb1HzTBpMFzduJ2cBeYwLYnz3VeiurfnxJmVD7JkCrvSn6rVes9MVaYTNhGzgVLpVshyphenhyphenFstPsxf4/s1600-h/IMG_1137.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizu0CypNhCbLDxkDeO77eRLJUxKmd9rBWCM3EfhBBGoQD3M-k1QI_2Cx6_uYAPlSZlb1HzTBpMFzduJ2cBeYwLYnz3VeiurfnxJmVD7JkCrvSn6rVes9MVaYTNhGzgVLpVshyphenhyphenFstPsxf4/s400/IMG_1137.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359167988233105954" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">4) Threading the ribbon is a bit tedious so I actually stopped about 1/3 the way through. I tied the ends of the ribbon into a bow and closed the necklace clasp so it created a double chained necklace. If you do this too, make sure to leave the ribbon long enough so the necklace can go over your head. You wouldn’t want to tie and untie the necklace every time you wear it!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">5) Or you can also weave the ribbon through the entire length of the necklace to get something more like Lula Frost.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">6) I kept mine simple, but you can add brooches, charms, feathers, and gems to it as well. </span><br /><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmPkZGEJps7upp-Vcq-bl0Gxvn5fQM46KrAeILcx-z8v0CNEatheftGCT-_K5OWjHonscrb6Is92FdoEca7_ApBJifl952TmPXxYgDOJ5n3E48q2F6b32OWCihGOTspXjbj_5-vTQ7vQ/s1600-h/IMG_1143.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmPkZGEJps7upp-Vcq-bl0Gxvn5fQM46KrAeILcx-z8v0CNEatheftGCT-_K5OWjHonscrb6Is92FdoEca7_ApBJifl952TmPXxYgDOJ5n3E48q2F6b32OWCihGOTspXjbj_5-vTQ7vQ/s400/IMG_1143.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359167994529608034" border="0" /></a>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-22798558434909634602009-07-09T21:38:00.002-04:002009-07-29T18:35:12.663-04:00Happy 21st<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ga6Ha9TYbAgtvQszcHbaco-2n-xhJa2YbqGSl8fcvSHmSUJyOtWYP9o2bXM-GQK05oD-vZSUcugN3DGhrrb0X1S6TemKgHY8Oa6w2tgOGNv2u2HcuX8Ab37thvYRb9W1s7ZmdyywZ3s/s1600/birthday.jpg" /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >Yes, today is my 21st birthday. Therefore I'm posting appropriately celebratory fashion photos.</span><br /></div></div><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" ><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oLZPYAlF0elHo7YWwDupsrkmyAoFu_OJ8_ni4fRHy3YQ5ppyqg1N44XCo3nTRk2TIUQFlHjmjhuYTtuJCO_kvgvWL5te3I9YNRqz330spknZe716xEKIqlrSQEotEYvvaqYI-I_fTNQ/s1600/Lonely+Birthday5.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhAVTJsg-r4L0f_XX4Bh5_A-MjsXdOWMJUJRj-0cm-BiIwj1VZuFNpXbyaZOv-kYrKBUGv8Srv91mOiuccbRGnVVV7FR4YmKJEYMF6EFJyrDd0fLULkJOb_3kxKag4CuXQIZ1ttLjlKI/s1600/addictedtolovemarieclarfi0.jpg" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHFzYH-htVZV1dpCFfpHAsv7PDViV_XM3KNa9jAvZFistl-f40b6eYa39oF5DQ4rkE6dePRzvxxfcxgIkHmrjijno5pMNOxMX7vIecvySU-CQo-JRSNeXuPDMuHkt9DtDq-1dXZYV5_k/s1600/Fun.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBWr42SI5xKkLXVakr8-KjWid3qPc4tj47WGspe3t4AS-Tdv-N1DEDXjV_-Pj1WWgp-5AK1oy1wSiEsK2tbyx-8PR0VOS12wY38ePhAWvf_XDvgRsz27BrTL12a25EZ19cFE1VyfjTQk/s1600/kylie_minogue+birthday+shoot.jpg" /><br /><br />Not doing much today (ie. no drinking because I have work tomorrow), but I will be treated to both lunch and dinner tomorrow. In fact I will most likely be eating way too much, way too good, food all this weekend. Okay, jogging... next week.<br /><br />Oh, and I went on a mini shopping spree today at noon. Three words- Gilt Final Sale!!<br /></span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-81900904383188421832009-07-09T20:16:00.004-04:002009-07-09T20:37:56.639-04:00Finally!! Leanne's Collection on Bluefly<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Since season 4 of Project Runway, all winning designers get to create a collection to sell on </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.bluefly.com/custom/custom.jsp?promoId=m1290094">Bluefly</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">. I'm actually really enthusiastic this time because I adore Leanne and her 'pleating' skills. The long awaited collection was finally revealed yesterday. I must say, I think it will actually sell!! I remember some of Christian Siriano's stuff heavily discounted during final sales, like 70%+, which is highly unusual for Bluefly so I suspect it didn't sell very well. Leanne's collection is more wearable and generally well priced. The price point is actually lower than the apparel on her website. The only thing that bothers me is that Bluefly states the retail price at $210.00 and then discounts it 20% to $168.00, when really the retail price is $168.00 and there was no discount. I hate when businesses initially mark up an item only to pretend discount it immediately. Anyway, annoyance at Bluefly aside, I think this is a great start for Leanne. Go Leanimal!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCLUCzrblsArnFgM4mwpJo6vFza-B_omVN6lygXwu2d1UiDjb30Ghi-UsXDP3Yq6yq8nm0Ulu6_qPfQ18N7P3vpqNXADxEAKv3XWw8zSfoEQIvZ5aULNfhba_iF606CJ8tApOihSurag/s1600/leannebluefly.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_AH9B9jNU4hlZ4hz1SJXkxTjtUhejRMf8ppSggRasi83ANWABSrNrtXtQHX6lK-XhEY_oo8asH3jLzmMkwp3enanTAKaX9dZEKRynb-eMA6O0GO8fGZKux-FtXYHBvcgnvbbuNF8y98/s1600/leannebluefly2.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhg1aqvTEGaXeeQFbaTiUUm1FSF0AAvQMgOHbV29xM8l2aD7I4NE4XLPYWzQBlSEu0TgUz7_RQAaT6hjRJ3ntEajSq5x3En8s9c6t_skBN5XiWHsohgRdBsBQELjTKnJ7GKrICLff7Hc/s1600/leannebluefly3.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjbB-mQd3ASESAipM8Y3mE6xps8QAnSDKDSnO43pZs3PVQGPBGLvoWdp1_rLOz34oSTeFREM6BVKYEeP7Ib3FrHtgFVJWWMv1K34wvD1G5nu9K7cwLC4B0ak3P4dUUtq1XVovvWe90To/s1600/leannebluefly4.jpg" /><br /></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-80058853056937860002009-07-09T19:54:00.000-04:002009-07-09T19:54:56.209-04:00A First Look at Fall 09 Couture<span style="font-size:100%;"><img style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHrfUWYjESzxBkD2P_TKfPbOCo0SrWkrxlEe4LHvkl3vV2kN8dMVUl6QakjfALlRElYVpr0sESjATVUUwYzkaavRPcNdhyHCxqwNy8mQjpz0Zf01lX67SsB3Ye8S3-T3wh-HogQVsBYY/s1600/details.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The fashion shows I like to cover the most are the couture shows. They are only a few of them each season (so I can look at them all) and are known for their amazing quality and vision. The first two up on Style.com are the Dior and Alexis Mabille collections. Surprisingly, both showcased some innerwear as outerwear. Does that mean the rich and famous will be wearing scandalous lingerie under sheer full skirts for fall?</span><br /><br /><b style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Dior</b><br /><br /><img style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijad-a8WxC1kpv723-EXhjBOcvyVb9gca4Tk9baGU7vQbm9ynGfP-FaDSUDsydK9UydZ54tBfdCbILMi7QPEoYoYaW1CoVLvev6ouVCLJLrKShyVVmiSeF8CKq8Q_k-mT8DCmiys4d5jY/s1600/DiorFall09Couture2.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I can trust John Galliano to put on an elaborately overdone show with elaborately overdone clothes. His looks always border on the absurd but that’s what makes his show the most fun to watch. This year was no exception.<br /><br /></span><img style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73uTEadq-eRktoTq1Lz8o5c9zqHZ5CQV0o3AhKZruqgtpbu0PLfJHHcJI7YtDpkjmMaAnELQA4u9vs-oXjWOuekeC8Rp0Eg_uuBJAVZZ4AAOntEsAIDjU4eSCAN7jOB5p1kjBNFywAmQ/s1600/DiorFall09Couture1.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">50’s Satin Jackets with sheer skirts over girdles. What can I say- at least he didn’t give us bulbous alien dresses. The jackets actually stay true to vintage Dior suits and will probably sell well. The sheer petticoats, girdles, and such, seem to be incongruent with the polished suit jackets, but Galliano explains that he was inspired by half dressed mannequins. Oookaay… as long as he doesn’t expect people to go around half dressed. All in all, the collection was very lady like, from the jackets, to the handbag, to the leather gloves. More evidence of the Michelle Obama effect!</span><br /><br /></span><center style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.style.com/slideshows/fashionshows/F2009CTR/CDIOR/DETAILS/00180m.jpg" /></span></center><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm crazy in love with these mulberry leather gloves. For me, the items that shone the most were the gorgeous, gorgeous, corset dresses.</span><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1NhemCS_Iz781q2fXbmaS8-rizXJPR4Z5OmW_JOh3gDGB4G2r16veZENZrpLTCcQ7nk4DN1IwBKJOn5TO6zASM_jhnGq8KQ5LymoenpqfeqDsWhcFj84XcBpNO92RAH6CKsfb5oe6_I8/s1600/DiorFall09Couture3.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">WTF-ness: 6 (mostly from the girdles)</span><br /><br /><br /><b style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Alexis Mabille</b><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Mabille said he was inspired by a young woman just getting out off bed. When I see his collection, I can believe it, but isn’t it just an excuse to drape window treatment on models?</span><br /><br /><img style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfYtbXBJwEARqI0KBV1vgZm874Lt9KOaNmpGWWCTwNUk1vXLjFwib9RpmWZxwDCzc3qO-kuSMxcE27NiuwUJ12aJeefQihGhCq-3MC3ekAyBTzc1Bf9eElAhMKr3j5tE2AfaGMt4bSo8/s1600/MabilleFall09Couture1.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Okay that was a little mean, but this collection felt too casual and summery to be appropriate for Fall/Winter couture. I understand designers want to break the boundaries that define couture, but it really didn’t showcase his skill- so why would anyone buy it? Not to say I disliked the collection, but there are very few value pieces that I feel people would be willing to fork over their money for (those few pieces being the snazzy white suit and sheer dress).</span><br /><br /><img style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqnWXKjZcvMmMiY5Yewlu57uqRHVYjBxlfuif44iwW7PHDN3cDFQfJZ1DvqlXBlaeKuz6j1AfgCFv7p0Fnpx8OzzP3hjfbv-BcAfUmWVp3whnhKEqPndNM5WWgH7dnH8FfYkd_khGYQo/s1600/Alexis.jpg" /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:85%;">Collection favorites</span></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Still it’s not a bad concept, especially if done for a spring couture show. It’s light and romantic and reminds me of a music video I really enjoyed called 'Her Morning Elegance' by Oren Lavie. I highly recommend you watch it below. The song is charming but the film's concept and direction are what made the video memorable.</span><br /><br /><object style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2_HXUhShhmY&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2_HXUhShhmY&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">The film sums up what I thought Mabille was missing in his showing on Monday. Like the song, the look he created was sweet and charming, but forgettable. However, the video applied a cool stop action technique that really wowed me. Mabille should have done the same for his clothes, use technique and details to blow fashion critics away.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Reaction: meh!<br /><br />Source: Style.com, NyMag.com<br />Definitely skim those sites for better images- the blogger window is way too tiny!<br /></span></span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-73654822585848709502009-07-07T19:23:00.005-04:002009-07-29T12:03:39.891-04:00The 'Anna' Documentary<object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Tq4wo4JYy2s&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Tq4wo4JYy2s&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="430" height="264"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">First Valentino and now Anna Wintour! Looks like all the big names in fashion are getting a feature film documentary these days. I guess people can't get enough of Vogue. To be honest, I think U.S. Vogue has been getting worse and worse- haphazard or boring fashion spreads and articles that read like lists of socialite and designer names. Hardly anything catches my interest. I usually flip to the back first and browse the three pages of guest editor selected 'must haves' (you know, the ones that look like scrapbook pages). Then I check out the photo shoots and luxury brand ads. I get a 1/2 inch thick mag every month and there's nothing in there worth reading, skimming maybe but not reading- boo-hiss! I am definitely not renewing this year. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Despite my complaints with Us Vogue, it's a given I'm going to watch 'The September Issue'. I may not like Wintour's selection on recent issues, but I (and probably every fashion blogger out there) dream of being the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue. Attending fashion shows and everyone asking your opinion on what's fashionable and what not, having the power to promote young designers, putting together fashion spreads and reviewing fashion articles, what's not to like about that job? I definitely want to check out the amazing things you get to see and do as the Editor-in-Chief of one the best known fashion magazines in the world.</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-29974481762056066282009-06-16T21:16:00.006-04:002009-07-07T19:18:34.692-04:00Getting Back Into the Flow of Things<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPY1h4NzoCxUA_gEmTRZBC8eJirjL9t5mJc2dNVWTqdxjE-rk4um_dmWG-VZCLANFZDVjEXNMcT9AHdDBycKF9QC2w4rl4v-yriRVm_QI22-0gtP7AAIelQQh10XKvZ465awv065-zpw/s1600-h/workinggirl.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPY1h4NzoCxUA_gEmTRZBC8eJirjL9t5mJc2dNVWTqdxjE-rk4um_dmWG-VZCLANFZDVjEXNMcT9AHdDBycKF9QC2w4rl4v-yriRVm_QI22-0gtP7AAIelQQh10XKvZ465awv065-zpw/s400/workinggirl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355861522041215602" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It’s been a month since I gave a little insight on how turbulent my life was at the moment. Since then I’ve found a job near my university which is a 2 hours drive from my parents’ house. I drove to my university campus four times the week I got the job; once for the interview, then for the paperwork and drug screening, again to look at housing, and finally when I started my first day at work. It was unbelievably hectic and draining.<br /><br />I originally planned on finding a summer sublet but found a year lease that was just perfect- very close to my classes and well maintained. The advantage of a year lease is that I can move in during the summer and not have to move again when Fall Semester starts. The only problem was I needed housing asap, but the previous renters weren’t moving out for another two weeks. So I spent two week like a homeless person, moving around from place to place with everything I needed in a suitcase. Thankfully my friends were very nice about letting me stay with them for a few days.<br /><br />I finally moved into my very first apartment a week ago (it feels longer). It’s still a little sparse with no furniture in the living room, but I managed to clutter it up with my junk and cardboard boxes. Still, it’s a step toward normalcy. Between working 8 hours a day, studying for the CFA exam on the weekends, and meeting up with friends occasionally, the days seem to go by so quickly yet feel so long. So quickly because I have so little spare time and the day is over before I know it; so long because what was only a week ago feels like it happened a month ago.<br /><br />The past month was full of firsts. First time working in an office, first time being paid a decent wage, first time signing a lease (school dorm leases don’t count) and paying rent. I feel very accomplished right now. I just hope I don’t screw things up.<br /><br />Image source: the movie Working Girl<br /></span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-44406671885693952052009-05-28T02:24:00.005-04:002009-07-29T12:07:44.737-04:00New Banner Picture Credits<div style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3Lv9Z7aMDW-0P4INfaQQNIhNjW_kxiVCiBb80HQUQ3QioWWShLH24GllhfSECT-CprYKVbC8-GBBvnMzktnmU3NmVQRCgFlXdFzPBzB3wA0pAWOWImzf-OJ-T6CL1MsibtYFg3W4wlc/s1600-h/screenshot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340756966081848930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 270px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3Lv9Z7aMDW-0P4INfaQQNIhNjW_kxiVCiBb80HQUQ3QioWWShLH24GllhfSECT-CprYKVbC8-GBBvnMzktnmU3NmVQRCgFlXdFzPBzB3wA0pAWOWImzf-OJ-T6CL1MsibtYFg3W4wlc/s400/screenshot.jpg" border="0" /></a>From Left to Right:<br /><a href="http://www.balenciaga.com/us/en/balenciaga/Women/Handbags/TopHandles/P-Giant-Work-Lambskin-Palladium-plated.aspx#product-details">Balenciaga Bag</a><br /><a href="http://www.vivre.com/control/product/~category_id=40038/~product_id=39556;jsessionid=7580773C378C1C3457CEBF85D5FB7A20.vvprod2">Subversive Necklace</a><br /><a href="http://www.wwd.com/footwear-news/spring-sketch-preview-2144340?module=featured_2144340#/slideshow/article/2144340/2144451">Tania Spinelli Spring 09 Sketch</a><br /></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-73415851579680427202009-05-28T00:54:00.003-04:002009-05-28T02:22:06.864-04:00CFDA Fashion Fund Popular Vote<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Don't forget to vote for your favorite designer for 2009 so they can get some moo-lah without you actually purchasing their clothes (not that I wouldn't want to own a piece and support designers that way, but a dress is probably more than my rent). The only problem now is who to choose- I have too many favorites!!</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.wwd.com/popular-vote">Vote CFDA Fund</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">You can vote once a day and you are entered for a giveaway of 2 tickets to a Spring Summer 2010 Fashion show. Doesn't say which one or cover transportation costs, but you do get a nice swag bag including a Linea Pelle handbag.</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-88192496493956095602009-05-20T11:45:00.006-04:002009-05-20T12:43:57.366-04:00The Safety Pin Takes Center Stage<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Safety pins have been relegated to the backstage in fashion. When there's a gaping hole between two buttons because your button-up shirt is just a little too tight around the chest area, you use a safety pin. When your bra strap keeps showing, you safety pin it to the shirt. The safety pin is meant to temporarily fix but not meant to be seen. Lately, I have found safety pins to be more than utilitarian, but actually stylish. The unsung hero of fashion is finally getting it's turn in the lime light.</span><br /><br /><center style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVIFB3-81guQ4d1Seqfak3I3B7B7ATnuEvnlANNp24fw_0tNMivfat-Ztd_sk_wy03I4Is7y2rHS0x3xfqzGyZny2ML-vbecU2MUdsEw9jRwBojD3t_c2VqAgGBpqsbJoJfny7PX4IOPw/s1600/SafetyPinFashion.jpg" /></center><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Top to bottom:</span><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >1) </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.stolengirlfriendsclub.com/">Stolen Girlfriends Club white minidress</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >- image source </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.fashiontoast.com/2009/04/keep-it-together.html">Fashion Toast<br /></a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >2) </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.ongwat.com/jewelry.html">Ongwat Jewelry Pin Me Necklace</a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >3) Image source- </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/2008/08/on-streetgustav-sodermalm.html">Sartorialist</a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >4) </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.soubrettejewellery.blogspot.com/">Sou Brette Jewelry Hexagon Pendant</a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >5) </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://bodhibags.net/">Bodhi Safety Clutch</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >- image source </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://cdn2.gilt.com/images/share/uploads/0000/0000/1309/13096833/orig.jpg?26_1242334483">Gilt</a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >6) </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="https://www.thedocent.com/">The Docent Safety Bracelet</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">It's interesting how different people have used the same objects. Some looks were rock and roll, others were gothic, and others exuded glamour and elegance. One thing is consistent; they all made a statement- 'don't overlook the the safety pin.'</span>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-16049584947835352612009-05-19T23:48:00.005-04:002009-05-20T01:03:39.285-04:00Life Intervenes<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Hey Readers,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">So the last post was about a month ago. Since then, I have been finishing up my classes, preparing for finals, moving out of the dorms, and trying to figure out what to do with my life. I haven't been able to really focus on posting anything of late- more like my energy has been sapped from trying to do and worrying about everything else. I still take the time to read my favorite blogs but the time that goes into writing and photoshopping my own posts is more than I'm willing to give it at this point. I am planning to continue the blog on a 'when I can' basis because it's something I truly enjoy. Once my life starts to stabilized, I will post on regular basis. In the mean time I have stumbled upon some great fashion blogs that really motivates me to make my blog more visually appealling.</span> <a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.parkandcube.com/"><br /></a><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.parkandcube.com/">Park and Cube</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">- Great photography and style. I wish I could take pics of my daily outfits as well as Shini, P&Q's blog writer. Also her DIY projects are creative and look amazing.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.notcouture.com/">NotCouture</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">- The site is like a polaroid portal into fashion blogs. Great images and a little text to tease you into clicking away. I also love </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.notcot.com/">NotCot</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">, an aethetically pleasing blog on graphics, design, and all things aethetically pleasing.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.streetpeeper.com/">Street Peeper</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">- Another street fashion photography website like Sartorialist, Jak and Jil, and Garence, except international with photos from NY to Tokyo to Melbourne to Jakarta (?).<br /><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zxD-HSALsxDtCSc938Jbsk3UyczOMM9UjTZ-tlHiVubayLNyjfll9GTRPnw7pW3DcRVZcHjAsnBmLOkGU-8B0jYYuMhz2splKwvG2cF-RNm-vz8aFFvazJtrP4ofg-dDbANQ358tHS8/s1600-h/cupcake.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zxD-HSALsxDtCSc938Jbsk3UyczOMM9UjTZ-tlHiVubayLNyjfll9GTRPnw7pW3DcRVZcHjAsnBmLOkGU-8B0jYYuMhz2splKwvG2cF-RNm-vz8aFFvazJtrP4ofg-dDbANQ358tHS8/s400/cupcake.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337766826860959042" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;">My yummy chocolate cupcake with raspberrry frosting<br />that I bought to celebrate the end of classes. </span></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7450284514890967121.post-17346739108251706282009-04-20T20:41:00.003-04:002009-07-12T22:11:57.288-04:00W.I.N. (Want it Now!) - Embroidered Heels<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Lately I've been falling in love with embroidered heels. They are ornate and decadent. They go perfectly with a simple cocktail dress or they can be the hidden gem under long dark-denim jeans and a casual top. I love how detailed embroidered shoes are but because of the details, they tend to be very pricey. If I were to ever own one, the pair would be the star of my shoe collection.</span><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWsLRfHFdQDKs7KeGHhXM5td5u-1ayRo7QgDtBLW1-ya7mLq_SssY6L1T5yPnrPSdaCwNLt9HxqVZLoXSr6aKcjDsxZ749xkkvlX0JfVMiLHQCKvPhBMfa_Y9FzuEZBbu8lWoR4m6c0Pk/s1600/MaryNorton.jpg" /></center><a href="http://www.marynorton.com/store/sale/DESIRE019002.html">Mary Norton Desire</a> : $148.50<br />Gold on black is so classic. This pair is GORGEOUS!<br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNG2grjU80uUUTj4PcfIQLBjer1kFeYADyB2lEx7PofaLGkcz3UE-IV1J9IK8EU4b5j1U7wMDb5xqOCdggEqfjI3Tb4trdZm6tkKeePCMXHRdtbGavaWfHCYVc1hD-M8v_BMpGXZ5jDyk/s1600/Dior.jpg" /><br /><a href="http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml;jsessionid=FAKHKNPSHNCMWCQAAKNRPVQ?itemId=prod38620007&ecid=BGALRFeedJ84DHJLQkR4&ci_src=14110925&ci_sku=X0AFF">Dior Paraiso Embroidered Slingback</a> $750.00<br />Raffia is an unusual embroidery choice, but this sandal is anything but ordinary.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.keds.com/images/us/local/products/altview/detail/167180_1_alv.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 340px;" src="http://www.keds.com/images/us/local/products/altview/detail/167180_1_alv.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.keds.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=1554&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=289&iSubCat=303&iProductID=1554">Plenty by Tracy Reese for Keds</a> : $80.00<br />Tracy Reese brings sophistication to the sneaker brand Keds with a stunning embroidered wedge. If only they got rid of the Keds label on the side.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i3.farfetch.com/10/01/04/78/10010478_28648_800.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://i3.farfetch.com/10/01/04/78/10010478_28648_800.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/sandals/size-6/item10010478.aspx?cur=USD">Alexander McQueen Embroidered Ankle Strap Shoes</a> : $420.00<br />I bet these would go amazing with a <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3416/3224445217_826b91ebcc_b.jpg">Balmain blazer</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNaN0YRztGSM9RToQge28o1DqM6bUfmtGpPSrOhrUqOVs3iHeWBrZ-gw5RvCid6LnvQvryZCaiGXl3rXBuwB9ySGBKKfLNCdlojLrH4BD6sSyRUsCkFf-2TtxRRzKo0Yeoyd38YCsLc8/s1600-h/sergio_rossi_emboidered_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNaN0YRztGSM9RToQge28o1DqM6bUfmtGpPSrOhrUqOVs3iHeWBrZ-gw5RvCid6LnvQvryZCaiGXl3rXBuwB9ySGBKKfLNCdlojLrH4BD6sSyRUsCkFf-2TtxRRzKo0Yeoyd38YCsLc8/s400/sergio_rossi_emboidered_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357761526468982178" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.6pm.com/n/p/p/7225888/c/4709.html">Sergio Rossi</a> : $385.25<br />If shoes could kill, I would be knocked dead with one of these. Champagne colored leather, elaborate floral embroidery, and a sprinkling of crystal equal one luxurious shoe.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWcBxl0VBbA9kb6DLRoOX7KYleCfFxVr-TmiyoOcSn-y2E0paIjRSRD3tGYKoPS0W2xTusFDt2KKX7xgboTyJKsysEZZAjouuu6w5xRYtoOeJLNd_dLfLEYopEnPyLYAkzrKYfjrvTnE/s1600-h/sergio_rossi_emboidered_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWcBxl0VBbA9kb6DLRoOX7KYleCfFxVr-TmiyoOcSn-y2E0paIjRSRD3tGYKoPS0W2xTusFDt2KKX7xgboTyJKsysEZZAjouuu6w5xRYtoOeJLNd_dLfLEYopEnPyLYAkzrKYfjrvTnE/s400/sergio_rossi_emboidered_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357761526661790546" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.6pm.com/images/731/7315915/4998-413533-p.jpg"> </a><a href="http://www.6pm.com/n/p/p/7315915/c/632.html">Sergio Rossi</a> : $280.00<br />I saw these on Gilt Final Sale for $78.00 and wanted one badly, but they were in someone's cart for the longest time until it finally sold out. The design reminds me of organic art nouveau prints, but these much better because I can wear them on my feet.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrOHsURpZ6ZC3yMmzKE1xQUSJ6dpNURFsTrPiO6OaV02-f0yrQYArP4Q0zFEMbHOvrRMc36bPD-8tSKeQlrM34qn1SEO9CE9IHGVBHgNUzg6mYKOmuJkUcS0hN_XYFjQlO-YSgx5GZZM/s1600-h/Jessica+Bennett.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 335px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrOHsURpZ6ZC3yMmzKE1xQUSJ6dpNURFsTrPiO6OaV02-f0yrQYArP4Q0zFEMbHOvrRMc36bPD-8tSKeQlrM34qn1SEO9CE9IHGVBHgNUzg6mYKOmuJkUcS0hN_XYFjQlO-YSgx5GZZM/s400/Jessica+Bennett.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326905634287441442" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dsw.com/dsw_shoes/catalog/product.jsp?brand=100014&category=cat10006&index=10&prodId=186389">Jessica Bennett Havana Embroidered Pump</a> : $49.94<br />A.k.a. - Sergio Rossi Knockoffs<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://adn.is.bluefly.com/mgen/Bluefly/eqzoom85.ms?img=213756700.pct&outputx=738&outputy=700&level=1"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 430px; height: 407px;" src="http://adn.is.bluefly.com/mgen/Bluefly/eqzoom85.ms?img=213756700.pct&outputx=738&outputy=700&level=1" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.bluefly.com/Christian-Louboutin-pink-beaded-satin-Lets-Go-dorsay-pumps/sale-cat60002/213756700/detail.fly?referer=cjunction_1609763_10436858_glc_-_1_1_090420_cb3a7821576f19831330ac77103d5add">Christian Louboutin Pink 'Let's Go' D'orsay Pumps</a> : $1,223.99<br />These are one pair of Louboutins that won't go unnoticed. Girly and decadent, these are definitely in my top 10 <a href="http://windowshoppingemporium.blogspot.com/2008/01/new-banner-hooray.html">Louboutin list</a>.<br /></div>Lyraliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952783722016468009noreply@blogger.com1