nostalgic wardrobe

I’m back in Boston and catching my breath for the next couple of weeks before I’m back to school and back to fine tuning my time management skills. In the mean time I’ve been job hunting and with luck I might add. I’ve also been online adding items to my dream cart. That’s part of an inside joke, but I think you get it. So…I’ve been online and sniffing around Modcloth. Since the universe has a teasing sense of humor, of course there is a pair of gorgeous cut-out oxfords that I can’t afford–or at least the responsible me can’t afford. They’re just the right formula of rustic leather and canvas to conjure up daydreams of summertime in 1960s France, living in the countryside. I’d be laying under the summer sun. Breathing in the fresh air. Pen and journal in hand. Willing time to stand still.

Sigh.

I’d hope to pair it with as beautiful a dress as the one below, also found on Modcloth.

What would you be doing?

Seeing Red Dress-Modcloth Scholarly Method Flat-Modcloth

Filed under: random Tagged: cut out oxfords, modcloth

it’s been a long road

nostalgicwardrobe — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 17:58:22 +0000

The Amanda Shoe in tan, American Apparel

Enamored is the word most fitting to describe how I feel right now. The idealist in me has never felt so compensated for. If that makes any sense. What I’m trying to say is I have thought up an array of different things including a pair of oxford flats and never have I actually found just what I wanted before. Until today when the right oxford interpretation here by Tic-Tac-Toe sold at American Apparel happened its way upon me. I’ve been searching and waiting for the perfect pair for soo long.

Oxford Style Slide 10

The detailing here of perforated cut-outs really sealed the deal for me. Reminded me of the sweet and charming appeal in the Victoria’s Secret (if I remember correctly) eyelet peep-toe bootie from the image above (part of a slideshow found in this post here). Not to mention that über feminine almond shaped toe that helps a petite girl like me elongate her look.

It’s funny: I don’t really like to buy the same item in different colors–it’s a pet peeve of mine, but this would be the exception (if I was only willing to buy them both.) They’re just as perfect in tan as they are in cream. But each would obviously have the ability to create very distinct looks.

I can’t help but think of the many occasions I could wear these oh-so-believably comfortable oxford flats. On beautiful sunny days when the skies are clear and an ongoing breeze is whipping my hair around ever so slightly. I could be on a picnic or riding a bike. Or moseying around the neighborhood. Or helping my sister plant some flowers (and by helping I mean handing her a tool here and there and mostly serving as a conversationalist). With a smile from ear to ear I want to say thank you American Apparel you have made my year pretty much.

(Okay, so I’m prone to hyperbole….but you knew that already.)

So I’m so excited about my beautiful birthday gifts…which also includes three pairs of shoes: gray suede flats; black leather, equestrian boots; and indigo suede heels. And a pinstripe shirt dress, a sheer cotton eyelet top, and a fun floral print top with an exposed zipper in the back. Loving my gifts.

The Amanda Shoe in cream, American Apparel

Filed under: random Tagged: American Apparel, oxford flats, The Amanda Shoe

my favorites down the red carpet

nostalgicwardrobe — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:05:35 +0000

Yes, I am talking about the Oscars that apparently got 41.3 M viewers, including myself, when it aired Sunday night. I made sure to catch the beginning: when the stars and/or nominees walk the red carpet because of course I love to see what they’re wearing! Sorry, but I pretty much only have eyes for the gowns–guys just don’t get to make as much of a spectacle as the ladies do…it’s a shame, but it seems when they try they end up looking a little wacky like Robert Downey Jr. did……but it’s okay: personally, I don’t mind it.

On to the gorgeous gowns…

Vera Farmiga wearing Marchesa

My favorite has to be Vera Farmiga in that ‘scarlet’ Marchesa gown with ‘cascading, pleating ruffles’. (I think it was on E! that it was described so eloquently.) It was absolutely the most enchanting dress I’d ever seen down a red carpet. I loved the drama it held and the silhouette it created. I just LOVED it. Adored it. The whole look: her hair, make up, darling jewelry, and especially that color (which I did highlight, yes, but had to mention just one more time). It was the ruffles that did me in though–I am a sucker for anything ruffled!! Also of course the pleating was perfection: such a modern take on such a common and often underrated style.Okay, okay. I’m moving on to the other dresses that had big tulle to fill. (My attempt at a joke.)

Sandra Bullock wearing Marchesa

The sweetest win had to be Sandra Bullock’s for best actress. I have to admit I haven’t seen “The Blind Side” yet, but I intend to. I want to see her performance in this movie and I am always up for movies that are based on true stories. Unfortunately, I am usually more interested in those with sad endings–I am so sick and twisted…I know. Now about this gown: it’s also a Marchesa gown and it’s stunning. Again, the whole look did it for me. The simple make up with the gorgeous pop of color on her lips (the shade of which I loved and wish I could pull off–I am always so aware of how not-white my teeth are though when I wear my red lipstick .) Also her bag complemented her dress so well, as did her understated jewelry. So beautiful…!

Anna Kendrick wearing Elie Saab

Anna Kendrick definitely surprised me. I don’t think much of her role in “Twilight”, but in her defense there’s not much she can do about that. I am dying to see “Up in the Air” and am so glad to know she has such a great sense of style. I thought it was funny that she never expected she would wear pink to the award show–I’m not a fan of pink either, but this dress truly is the exception. Actually her and Demi Moore (which I talk-up later). I love ruffles, but second to them is surely draping. My favorite part of this Elie Saab dress is the off the shoulder bit. Not only is it Grecian inspired but it also had a lace trimmed thigh-high slit, with just enough skin showing without going over the top. This pale pink color is gorgeous on her with the dark hair and again subtle make up. The romantic look is taking over and I am loving it!! Yay!

Rachel McAdams wearing Elie Saab

Awe yes…Rachel McAdams in another exquisite dress by Elie Saab. The moment I saw her in this gown–my mouth dropped. I love her sense of style, but she took it to a whole new level here. This is the most beautiful she’s ever looked, in my opinion. This number fit so perfectly. Both her body type but even more so I felt like her personality was exemplified in this dress: if I only really knew what she was like, but you get the idea. It was just so right for her. The sweet heart neckline is such a romantic one–not to mention the hues of pink, blue, and green. I loved her for wearing a print to the Oscars which is hardly ever the case: bold move, well done. Also, I want to say that I am not much of a jewelry person so I appreciated her choice to be to so minimal. Loved it. I hope she just keeps impressing me…so excited for her what she’ll wear to the next award show.

I don’t want this post to get too long so those are my favorites…

but I want to mention the other dresses that definitely caught my eye, thus made quite an impression on me:

Demi Moore wearing Atelier Versace

Demi Moore’s dress was just down my alley. Again with a blush colored pink and hair (and make up) that complemented it very well. She looked wonderful.

Maggie Gyllenhaal wearing Dries Van Noten

Maggie Gyllenhaal also chose a print and my was it lovely. The print wasn’t overwhelming at all or whatever it is people are saying (well okay…I guess we’re all entitled to our opinions). I thought she pulled it off well and it suite her figure nicely. I just adored her earrings, bracelet, and pink lipstick. I’m glad she brought her unconventional sense of style to the Oscars. And just like Rachel, I am hoping to see even more of that in the future.

Elizabet Banks wearing Versace

Elizabeth Banks looked so charming in this Versace gown complete with contrasting fitted bodice and ruffled train. I thought she looked stunning. This color looked especially alluring on her. I love gray. If I had to pick a favorite color it would be all shades of gray. Adore it. So…I also thought the headpiece she wore was incredibly becoming.

Natalie Portman Oscars 2005

I think it rivals Natalie Portman’s diamond headpiece (from the 2005 Oscars), but I still prefer Natalie’s. Wanted to add that I love Elizabeth Banks even more for hosting the Sci-Tech Oscars.

Kate Winslet wearing Yves Saint Laurent

Kate Winslet never fails to impress me. She really went old Hollywood with a twist this time. Classic yet unconventional, leaving me in awe of her. Oh I almost forgot: the dress is by Yves Saint Laurent.

Cameron Diaz wearing Oscar De La Renta

Cameron Diaz wore Oscar De La Renta–pulling off the gold, embellished dress very well. I normally don’t care for her style choices, but she definitely upped it a few notches and deserves credit for such a smart move. Don’t like the hoop earrings, but that’s just me.

Carey Mulligan wearing Prada

Likewise, Carey Mulligan did a little embellishment on this black also strapless Prada gown. I usually don’t look too closely at the heels worn at these award shows and when I do I am often disappointed (except for Natalie Portman and Rachel Bilson–they always have the perfect pair on) but this time Carey’s choice in footwear was just gorgeous.

Nicole Richie wearing Reem Acra

Nicole Richie wore a sequined gown by Reem Acra that was certainly inspired by the 70′s and I loved it. That is: the sleeves, the color, as well as the low back. She really enjoys fashion and isn’t afraid to wear something completely unexpected. Looooved this one.

Kristen Stewart wearing Monique Lhuillier

She’s so perfectly awkward. Still, Kirsten Stewart wore a really beautiful gown by Monique Lhuillier. I actually like what Kristen wears most of the time, but this dress really did it for a lot of people, including me. I appreciate that she kept with her usual carefree-ness about herself by keeping her hair messy and hardly any jewelry at all. Right on!

Miley Cyrus wearing Jenny Packcham

I have to admit it: I liked what Miley Cyrus wore to the Oscars. Joan Rivers hit on the one thing I would change about it: it’s a little too tight on the top. Other than that, it’s really very pretty. It complements her age as well, which is nice. I guess I shouldn’t be so surprised..because come to think of it I really loved that red Valentino dress (and the earrings!) she wore to the Oscars in 2008.

Miley Cyrus wearing Valentino

I hope I didn’t skip anyone, but I’m going to wrap this up now. I think I went on for much longer than I should have, but there it is, my favorites down the red carpet.

Photos, unless otherwise noted, came from this blog site.

Filed under: celebrity inspiration Tagged: Anna Kendrick, Cameron Diaz, Carey Mulligan, Demi Moore, Dries Van Noten, Elie Saab, Elizabeth Banks, Jenny Pakcham, Kate Winslet, Kristen Stewart, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Marchesa, Miley Cyrus, Monique Lhuiller, Nicole Richie, Oscar De La Renta, Oscars 2010, Prada, Rachel McAdams, red carpet, Reem Acra, Sandra Bullock, Valentino, Vera Farmiga, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent

putting models in outfits

nostalgicwardrobe — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:31:21 +0000

…I know I said I would post my finds from my second trip to ReTails, but I just haven’t worn and so had the chance to take pictures of the skirts yet. I will get to it–I promise…

I just now put together a little something from this new site: Couturious and despite what I thought was a very limited collection of clothes, I really like what I have. Oh and I have to say it’s pretty awesome that users get to choose a model, a background, and mention the occasion for the outfit (‘where is she going?’) Pretty neat. Here’s what I pulled together and this time I have what the pieces are and their monetary value are listed below my creation. In case your wondering: I decided that my model is going to visit a museum. (Something I love to do and definitely love to dress well when I’m out doing it). Yes…I questioned whether she should be wearing heels or not, but she’ll be able to rest her feet when she grabs lunch. Okay I think I got way too into this.

What do you think of her outfit and the site?

My Couturious Ensemble

Herringbone Blazer: Silence & Noise, $39.99 at Urban Outfitters

Plaid Wool Vest: Fei, $118 at Anthropologie

Leather Tulip Wrap Skirt: See by Chloe, $540 at Intermixonline.com

Buttoned Leather Boot: Frye, $205 at Zappos.com

Raphael bag: Tory Burch, $325 at Tory Burch

Whitney Necklace: Vintage City Classics, $95 at Vintage City Classics (necklace no longer available)

Leaf Bracelet Cuff: Kinetic Soul, $38 at Kinetic Soul

Filed under: random

Rachel Bilson designs for charity

nostalgicwardrobe — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:01:34 +0000

I’m so sad that I didn’t come across this sooner, but I here it is regardless: People Online had a small article on Rachel Bilson’s charitable work sponsored by InStyle magazine which you can read in full here and InStyle’s here. The photo below is of the bracelet that allowed for this actress and fashion designer to add jewelry designer to her resume as well.

Everlon Bracelet photo courtesy of InStyle

Personally I think this is a beautiful piece, but more than admiring her for producing an inspired accessory, I admire her for participating in something so fruitful and benefiting of others, in this case students in Johannesburg, South Africa and Bostwana for CIDA (Community and Individual Development Association) Foundation’ s CIDA City Campus.

As late as I am on this scoop, you can still purchase this bracelet through this link right here. Here’s an excerpt from InStyle’s piece on Rachel Bilson that gives you a pretty thorough understanding of the project she’s supporting.

Last December, Bilson traveled to Botswana and South Africa to report on the improvements diamond mining has made in the lives of the people there. Wanting to do what she could to help, Bilson created this bracelet, sold exclusively through InStyle.com. It retails for $100, with $20 from each sale going to the non-profit Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF). Money raised will help purchase additional student housing for the CIDA City Campus in Johannesburg, Africa’s first practically free university.

photo collage courtesy of InStyle

Also here’s a link to see a short video narrated by Rachel talking about her part and experience being involved in such a wonderful cause. Enjoy!

Bilson created this bracelet, sold exclusively through InStyle.com. It retails for $100, with $20 from each sale going to the non-profit Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF). Money raised will help purchase additional student housing for the CIDA City Campus in Johannesburg, Africa’s first practically free university.

Filed under: celebrity inspiration, fashion for charity Tagged: CIDA, Everlon bracelet, fashion for charity, Rachel Bilson

a lovely gift: convenient cross-body and shoulder purse

nostalgicwardrobe — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 22:01:07 +0000

A few weeks ago, my sister came home from work with a thirft store find just for me. It seems she was able to make some time to have a look around a local Raleigh thift store: ReTails Thrift Shop. So I’ve finally taken some pictures of it and here they are. I am absolutely loving it by the way. It’s so practical and cross-body purses are so convenient. I guess that’s why I’ve been kind of obsessed with it (that and I don’t really have any of my purses here with me now and my outfits have felt so incomplete without them). This super inexpensive gift (its tag read: $4) is something I’m really enjoying–probably a little too much. I’ve been wearing it almost everyday since I got it. It’ll probably start to get worn out if I don’t put it aside for a little while so I’ll just have to find something else in my sister’s closet to replace it.

As mentioned above it was found at ReTails Thrift Shop in Raleigh, NC… of which their cause I want you all to know a little bit about:

ReTails is the the only nonprofit thrift shop in the Triangle that gives 100% of net profits to help the animals.
100% of the profits from ReTails Thrift Shop support THE $20 FIX, our targeted spay/neuter assistance program that enables low-income pet owners to spay/neuter their pets for $20. ReTails is owned and operated by AnimalKind, a nonprofit organization established in 1998…When we have surplus, we either donate it to local charities or sell it for export to countries with short supply, with the income from those sales going to THE $20 FIX program. We always try to ensure that usable surplus merchandise goes to people who need it (or in the case of blankets and towels to animals that need it!).

I’ll be posting next about a couple of skirts I also found on a second trip to ReTails. Gotta take some pictures of them first though.

Filed under: fashion for charity Tagged: cross-body, purse, ReTails Thrift Shop

inside my favorite magazine

nostalgicwardrobe — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:34:26 +0000

Oh, Lucky Magazine….you never disappoint.

So I finally got on top of my t0-do list and have put up my favorite finds from Lucky Magazine–my favorite fashion magazine of all time. I adore just about everything that Lucky’s pages have to offer.

First up is an adoreable dress by H&M that made my day because it is so undeniably affordable. Okay, okay…so $50 might be a little more than hard to swallow, but I think it’s fair–though that might just be because I am in love with this dress. Honestly though, if you take extra care with your clothes you’ll find they can last you a long time. With my clumsy tendencies, perhaps I shouldn’t be the person dishing this kind of advice, but oh well. Slowly but surely I will learn that for me: hot cocoa and a [new] lace top is not the best idea.

Speaking of lace and tops…

A 'delicate and feminine' Lacy Top by Tracy Reese

The second piece I found oh-so-irresistable is a sleeveless number by Tracy Reese (as well as the perfectly styled outfit) found among the many beautiful items spread throughout Lucky. I think you will too.

Filed under: magazine favs Tagged: H&M, lacy top, Lucky Magazine, Tracy Reese, viscose dress