Steampunk Dolls

New Hair

2010-09-17T18:33:00.004-05:00

I've been growing out my hair for a long time, but I'm tired of it. It's in that awful shaggy, half-grown out stage. I have an appointment to get it cut tomorrow, and I still have no clue what to get, so I'm documenting for future reference. Maybe it'll just get a trim, maybe I'll go bald, we'll just have to see.

All Grown Up

2010-09-16T20:17:00.004-05:00

So, I've gotten my first pair of fake nails. Yes, I've finally become a real woman. I know, oh I know. We're all proud. Also, you can't tell in the picture but I'm wearing a black leotard, black leggings, black cardigan, and grey skirt. I'm feeling a little Greta Garbo today.

Holy Ghost People

2010-07-20T22:49:00.004-05:00

Hype me on Lookbook!

But in other news, today I played dress up with my new 1950's thrift store find. Curled hair, red lipstick, and saddle shoes complete the picture.

To Everything There is a Season

2010-07-19T21:49:00.007-05:00

It's really crazy how much you can change in one year. Even more insane is how much you can change in 5 years, in just one thing. Take, for example, my hair.

Me, sophomore year of high school. I started out with my hair long and unkempt. This wasn't so much a stylistic choice so much as I didn't bother to learn how to blow-dry hair until I was like in college. Ok, I'll be honest, I'm still not great at it...

This is me from prom my senior year. Junior year I got my haircut into a fantastic messy textured bob type thing. I got a ton of compliments, many phrased along the lines of "I never noticed you before but now I actually think you look good!" While flattered this incident made me afraid to grow my hair out for years.

Freshman year of college I decided to try something I'd been thinking about getting for years: a pixie cut. Also I decided to go ginger, another thing I'd wanted to do for forever.

And then the awkward growing out stage. I have pictures that are way worse, but you can bet your ass I'm not posting them online.

More growing out, except I really like this length. This is basically the messy bob I got so many compliments on in high school. I'm growing my hair out right now for fun, but something tells me I'll end up back at this. If something works for you go for it. Just ask Anna Wintour.

Worst haircut ever, but I basically got what I asked for. I'm always envious of other people's bangs or edgy cuts, but they always look terrible on me. I really do best with simple hair styles. And bangs are always a poor choice for me because I have so little patience for styling them. I do like the dark color against my skin, I'd be willing to go brunette again.

Aaaand this is me as of today. The dark hair lightened, the ginger faded, it's all still growing out (especially those bangs). Not sure what I'm doing next, planning on growing it out, but the wait is so long and awkward stages are so, well, awkward.

P.S. In case you didn't catch it in the previous photo, I got my nose pierced! New addition from this weekend.

It's amazing how much a different hairstyle can change your look, and it's always amusing to realize how different you or your tastes have become in even a short period of time. So now I've shared mine, I think you need to share yours. Best haircuts? Worst haircuts? I demand to see them all!

Summer Camp Destroys My Attractiveness Possibilities

2010-06-24T19:48:00.006-05:00

So I got a job at a summer camp at a nature center. Goodbye pretty clothes, goodbye fun purses, goodbye cute shoes. Hello sports t-shirts and khaki shorts everyday!Basically I'm trying to excuse why I haven't updated in forever.

Instead of necklaces and jewelry I wear a lanyard with a plastic name-tag and keys attached. Plus my dad's man watch (I actually kind of like this addition).

I also wear tie-dye now. No, I'm serious.

Aaaand I wear these combo hiking/river shoes. They're like legitimate crocs. Oh yeah, I'm serious.

And this is my new carryall.

So I'm sorry I never post anymore, you can kind of see why. I hope you guys are having an awesome summer! And I will be updating, just probably far less personal fashion shots. And I'm hoping to be going to New York in the fall, so my outfits will not go to waste! But admit it, the river shoes are kind of cool...

It's Been a While...

2010-05-24T13:27:00.002-05:00

Hey y'all. I just wanted to say sorry for the lack of new posts. Alexi is in Italy (lucky!) and I'm busy looking for a job (also after moving out of my dorm room I can't seem to find my camera...), so it might be a longer wait than usual for new content. But, hey! It's summer vacation! Why are you inside reading a blog when you could be outside in the sun?

(Because our blog is super awesome and new updates in the future will be exciting, that's why! Come back soon, as soon as I nail down employment and find my camera I've got a ton of new outfits and updates to share!)

Givenchy Goes Coed

2010-05-10T01:42:00.002-05:00

Can you spot what's new in this picture?

Givenchy designer Riccardo Tisci is "using a transsexual among the cast for the house’s fall-winter ad campaign", a Brazilian named Lea T.

This is utterly fabulous, I love it. It reminds me of an earlier post where I talked about gender and fashion. That model is beautiful and everyone knows I love gender ambiguity, I'm excited for the new ad campaign!

Remember This?

2010-05-05T22:38:00.009-05:00

Remember back in February when I was complaining about American Apparel? Well apparently somebody else hates them too. The best way to explain is to quote the site itself (I bolded the pertinent parts):

" 'American Able' intends to, through spoof, reveal the ways in which women with disabilities are invisibilized in advertising and mass media. I chose American Apparel not just for their notable style, but also for their claims that many of their models are just ‘every day’ women who are employees, friends and fans of the company. However, these women fit particular body types. Their campaigns are highly sexualized and feature women who are generally thin, and who appear to be able-bodied. Women with disabilities go unrepresented, not only in American Apparel advertising, but also in most of popular culture. Rarely, if ever, are women with disabilities portrayed in anything other than an asexual manner, for ‘disabled’ bodies are largely perceived as ‘undesirable.’ In a society where sexuality is created and performed over and over within popular culture, the invisibility of women with disabilities in many ways denies them the right to sexuality, particularly within a public context.

Too often, the pervasive influence of imagery in mass media goes unexamined, consumed en masse by the public. However, this imagery has real, oppressive effects on people who are continuously ‘othered’ by society. The model, Jes Sachse, and I intend to reveal these stories by placing her in a position where women with disabilities are typically excluded."

Personally I think this is totally awesome, although it brings up conflicted feelings. On the one hand, it is totally unrealistic and kind of sick that we only use models that look completely different than the majority of people in society, and marginalize anyone that looks different. On the other, if I were a clothing designer and I wanted to show off my new line, of course I want to do it on fit, attractive people (at which point the problem ceases to be with fashion per se, but with the warped minds of the people, which are heavily influenced my magazines, back and forth, on and on. Phew!). You're selling America a fantasy, saying "if you buy this Marc Jacobs dress you'll be 93 pounds and gorgeous too". At least most runways don't claim to host "normal" people, they admit they deal with fantasy. Which is not to say that it makes it OK for designers to do that, just that I appreciate that man of them seem to recognize that they are fostering unrealistic expectations.

I think what bothers me so much about American Apparel is exactly what she says above, their claim to normalcy. It's normal to be stick thin with a huge rack and booty, to wander around all day scantily clad and be as sexual as possible. Hey little girls, everyone is like us, we're normal.

But then again, maybe I'm just taking this all way too seriously. What do you think, of the photos, the reasoning behind them, everything?

ETA: Another "article" on the subject (I say "article" because it's on Perez Hilton)

Vintage Throwback

2010-05-01T15:23:00.006-05:00

It's ok to dress slutty if you look vintage-inspired, right?

My gentleman friend needs help moving out, so I figured I would dress impractically and watch him move instead of contribute. Yay warm weather!

urban outfitters shorts, Forever 21 shirt, Modcloth watch necklace, Target belt and headscarf

A floral touch.

2010-04-27T11:24:00.016-05:00

I've been looking at a lot of floral hairpieces in the past week. I haven't bought anything yet (suggestions please), but all I know is that I really want to buy one. Sometimes a floral touch is all you need to add to a simple summer outfit to make it really look good!
ModCloth:

The Mustard Seed Etsy (I discovered this one from simplyhue):

Peppermint Sage Etsy:

Love, Taza (I found this shop from rockstar diaries):

Lou and Lee Etsy:

So do you guys think you can help me at least narrow it down to a shop? Right now Im leaning towards Lour and Lee Etsy or Love, Taza... Hard choices! Last thing- Check out these AWESOME sock things! I bought the octopus ones, haha.
'
(from tattoo socks & more etsy in case you were wondering)

xo, Alexi

In my mother's shoes

2010-04-24T02:19:00.009-05:00

I had a little bit of fun playing around with the lighting from outside. Sorry, but this is as professional as my pictures get. My camera is skillfully hanging from some books on my bookshelf so that I can get it at the right height.

Necklace: Forever 21
Mesh top: Aeropostale
Tank Top: American Eagle
Skirt: Zara
Tights: H&M
Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo

As you can tell from the title, the shoes were my mom's. They're a bit small on me, which is funny because my mom's feet are bigger than mine now (*sarcastic tone* I guess mom's bodies change after pregnancy or something like that). I also have a few pants from her that are tight on me. I know I'm not the thinnest person in the world, but I was surprised at how small my mom must have been! She was a model, though, so that makes sense. Do you have anything clothes/accessories that you would like to give your children?

xo, Alexi

Target

2010-04-22T19:55:00.005-05:00

Okay everyone. This is IMPORTANT. Don't forget that this Sunday Target is selling Zac Posen clothing! I don't know about you, but I completely forgot about that coming up, so just a heads up.

Also- guess who did some modcloth shopping? MOI. Actually, both the steampunk dolls did some modcloth shopping. Genny was just telling me about a dress she just bought from there, which then inspired me to order a few things. I might've spent a hefty amount, but whatever. Two of my items were on sale! Here's what I bought.

Lastly, Selective Potential is one of my favorite blogs. She has a giveaway that's open until Sunday, so you guys should check it out. Of course, I want the beautiful necklace for myself, but I thought I'd let you guys know anyways since I love you all.

Tomorrow's Friday! Wa-HOO! I hope you've all had a great week. Any weekend plans other then Target shopping?

xo, Alexi

ITALY

2010-04-20T18:11:00.005-05:00

Guess what?!?! I'm going to ITALIA this summer!!! For all you followers out there, I did a post about my awesome marketing professor. She's teaching a fashion marketing class in Rome for two weeks and afterwards we're going to Milan for fashion shows. This is a total dream come true! I just have to get my visa together...

P.S. I've never been to Italy before. Any suggestions? Places I have to see? People I need to stalk (cough cough, Valentino....)

xo, Alexi

VERY IMPORTANT

2010-04-10T12:35:00.004-05:00

Look. Look at this dog.

This dog is a hipster talking about steampunk (totally applicable). No, I just saw the steampunk and thought, "this is a great way to include something our blog is sorely lacking, and that is puppies". This is a picture from hipster puppies, a completely awesome website FYI. Enjoy a carefree and hopefully puppy filled Saturday!

Places Worth the CTA Money: Chinatown

2010-04-08T22:48:00.008-05:00

On Monday I visited Chicago's very own Chinatown, off the red line (Cermak-Chinatown)! Good times: fun sights, interesting shops, thus totally worth a visit if you're in the area. There is not a lot of clothing shops, it is more filled with restaurants, trinket and souvenir sores, and what I like to call weird-food stores (my personal favorite). It's a beautiful section of the city to wander around in aimlessly, while dressed fabulously of course. Next up on my list of places to wander through, Bucktown/Wicker Park!

The Red Line: North and Clybourn

2010-04-07T12:53:00.014-05:00

One of my best friends works at the Old Navy at the North/Clybourn stop and after visiting her there multiple times, it has become one of my favorite places to shop. The Belmont stop and Wicker Park will always and forever be my favorite stops on the El, but the next time you want to shop down Michigan Avenue- you might want to consider North/Clybourn instead. It's much quieter, there. Also, there's an American Eagle, Victoria's Secret, Express, J.Crew, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and THE CONTAINER STORE.

<--Here's me in my constant state of shopping. This was when it was still snowing a bit, so that's why I've got my winder coat on.

J.Crew's most recent display windows. I'm in love...

Top: Flea market in the Philippines
Skirt: Forever 21
TIghts: Filene's Basement
Socks: Old Navy
Shoes: Piperlime.com

So do you guys any unusual places you like to shop? I hope your week is going well. Last thing: I was a creeper and took a picture of this older lady a few days ago. She SPIKED her grey hair!!! How awesome is that?!

xo, Alexi

Gap shopping

2010-04-02T12:15:00.017-05:00

So I found a sale, bought a lot of stuff, and spent money that I'm not supposed to spend. What else is new? Here are some of the things I bought:
1) This sweater, but in lime green $15
2) A very comfy top for $10
3) An orange pullover for $20 (sorry, I couldn't find a picture online

And of course, here's me showing off some of my new stuff!
I wore my pullover to the gym today. It's sooo comfy!

Also it was sunny, but still a little chilly today. So my new top plus a skirt and tights were perfect!

Top: Gap Skirt: Singapore Bracelet: DIY Tights: Target Shoes: Piperlime.com

I later discovered that the bathroom has much better lighting, haha.

xo, Alexi

Check Me Out: Flavor Flav Edition

2010-03-30T09:27:00.004-05:00

Check me out, with my new timepiece and snazzy shoes. Funny story, this store Alexi & I both enjoy off the Belmont stop on the red line (that's el talk for all the Chicagoans out there) called Nevermind was having some sort of sale. Despite going there separately, we each ended up with the same pair of shoes. Clearly pretty minds think alike.

dress is thrifted, shoes from Nevermind in Chicago, jacket and hair bow are Forever 21, watch necklace from ModCloth.com

Makeup Skills?

2010-03-28T21:52:00.004-05:00

First on Effy...

Now on me!

So my first attempt at a makeup tutorial. I'm going for the above look, but I did mine a lot lighter and less intense because I'm not a total BAMF like Effy. Please watch and let me know what you think!

Chained

2010-03-28T17:27:00.009-05:00

It's been getting warmer, but still not that great. This is the FIRST time I've worn shorts with tights, though! I felt sooo self-conscious, haha

All my bling...

Earrings: Martin+Osa
Necklaces: Flower= Urban Outfitters; Best Friends= Christmas gift
Vest: American Eagle
Tee: Target
Bracelets: mix of American Eagle and DIY's
Shorts: Hollister
Tights: Target
Boots: Zara

xo, Alexi

I promise I havne't left you...

2010-03-25T11:16:00.009-05:00

I HAVEN"T ABANDONED YOU! I PROMISE, I PROMISE!!!
Sorry for the lack of posts lately. Just like Genny- I've been super busy since Spring Break. I simply can't wait for the weekend. All I have to say is...
FCUK YES tomorrow's Friday.

Thursday by NEED$$forFASHION featuring Valentino skirts

Also, Spring Break was lots of fun. I got to spend the first half of the week with friends then the second half with family:

1. Road trip to U of I
2. Mustache party!!! Urban Outfitters sold mustache stickers for $1.50
3. Ohhhh my family's so silly! We did this for no reason

Have you guys had any vacation time lately? Mine was MUCH needed

xo, Alexi

SKINS

2010-03-24T00:34:00.004-05:00

I am so completely totally 100% obsessed with the UK series Skins.

Seriously, I'm addicted, I need help.

Maybe at a later (less BUSYBUSYBUSY) date I'll go ahead and post something more in-depth about the fashion on Skins, but for now please enjoy my picturexplosion.

La La Love You

2010-03-16T09:01:00.005-05:00

So back in October of 2009 I was lucky enough to see one of my favorite bands, The Pixies, live at the Aragon Ballroom. Since the first time I moved to Chicago and saw the Aragon off the red line I've wanted to go to an event there, and when I found out a band I actually love was playing, well I got pretty excited. Crazy outfit excited. The Aragon is beautiful inside and out, so I included some pictures* of that too. Have a happy spring break time! We just got back from ours, which is sad. Let this make it better.

*Pictures taken by a friend, not me.

Vintage tux jacket, H&M Sequin minidress, Belt and Clutch from Urban Outfitters, Jessica Simpson heels

Style War 2010

2010-03-10T10:50:00.007-06:00

Soooo basically I have the most *awesomest* Marketing professor ever. Last week, I attended the Chicago Fashion Foundation's "Future of Chicago Fashion 2010 Student Design Competition" with her (Look forward for my post about that. I'm still putting it together since it was such an unbelievabe event!!) and she just sent me an e-mail about the Style Wars coming up on April 22nd. Style Wars is featured in the video.
STYLE WARS 2010 from PROJECT VYNE on Vimeo.

xo, Alexi

OSCARS

2010-03-09T12:52:00.005-06:00

Who cares who won? Let's admire the pretty!

Starting with the "ugh, what were you thinking?" category:

Blech, enough of that. I'm moving on to clothes I like, care to join me?

Waking up in Vegas

2010-03-02T13:37:00.013-06:00

Did i mention that I went to Las Vegas over winter break? I was there overnight with my mom and my sister and we bonded over a Black Eyed Peas concert and shopping ;-D

We stayed at Las Vegas' newst city center, The Aria! We felt pretty glamerous.

Earrings: Singapore
Dress: Boutique in Wicker Park ($20!)
Cuff Bracelet: A free trade booth from school
Shoes: Gap (I've had them for 4 years now)

Just a side note, the Black-eyed Peas were AMAZING! It was an incredible entertaining show.

xo, Alexi

Alice in Fashionland

2010-02-27T17:40:00.021-06:00

I'm hopping on the Alice in Wonderland craze bandwagon here. I couldn't help it though, the photographs for Alice in Wonderland-inspired editorials are just so stunning. I love not only the fashion, but the whimsical backgrounds. To start us off, here's the lovely Beyonce in a Disney ad:

-And, of course, the Annie Leibovitz pictures featured in Vogue. Here are some of my favorites. I found these first on http://chicsheek.blogspot.com/. Leibovitz is just amazing, don't you agree? I'm thinking of making a post about her soon.

-Hot Topic has some cool Alice stuff. I ordered the Chechire cat clips a few seconds ago...

-Last but not least, a few pics I found from a Spanish magazine called Ragazza. Fun, right?

Hope you enjoyed that.

xo, Alexi

Steampunk Jewelry

2010-02-24T23:28:00.003-06:00

I'm in love with the jewelry on this site. I've decided to stop shopping for a while (I'm learning to be fiscally responsible, yay?) so I can't buy anything, but man I do like looking. Especially the typewriter key items. Enjoy and Happy Thursday!

New Shoes

2010-02-23T21:02:00.002-06:00

I got these from Go Jane, they're fabulous! I feel like a badass in these.

Mail from Australia

2010-02-22T17:31:00.017-06:00

Well, Ladies and Gentlemen, it's no surprise that I have once again been online shopping. I found this clothing site through Polyvore called Monster Threads. There was this pullover sweater I really wanted and the fact that the store is based in Australia didn't stop me. So last week I received a sweater from Australia- isn't that exciting? It's also proof of my unstoppable shopping addiction. I can't wait to do an outfit post with it soon! It's so cute and comfy.

And while we're on the shopping subject, I bought a few goodies from ModCloth a while ago that I can't wait to receive. To justify these recent purchases, I must tell you that I haven't been able to go out and shop for a while, plus I've been saving my paychecks for the past month.

Earrings: Target
Top: Forever 21
Tank Top: Mango
Sweatshirt: Monster Threads

xo, Alexi

iWannit: Mesh design

2010-02-20T04:00:00.007-06:00

"Fashion is what you adopt when you don't know who you are."
-Quentin Crisp

First of all- where can I find this shirt and how do I get money to buy it??? It's beautiful AND sexy as hell- a winning combination.

Secondly- I think this quote is very true to me right now. I've always been very unsure of my life and I go through all these phases that are constantly changing. But I think that's why I have such a love for fashion. There's always something that sparks my interest in fashion, no matter what phase I'm in, you know?

xo, Alexi

Leopard socks, purple pants, silver shoes.

2010-02-16T23:58:00.008-06:00

Scarf: gift
Cardigan: Kamiseta
Shirt: Marshall's
Socks: Dehlia's
Pants: Wet Seal
Necklace: UOutfitters

I'm out of skirts and tights I could've worn with them...
Plus my socks are getting holes. Awesome.

xo,Alexi

Genny Goes Brown, and Succumbs Once Again to the Temptation That is ModCloth

2010-02-16T00:43:00.005-06:00

Went brunette this weekend. Bought new jewelry off of modcloth. Enjoy.
Links to the jewelry here:
Polynesia Dreaming Ring
Soaring Swallow Ring
My Pet Octopus Ring
Aquatic Pals Earrings

On my nails I'm wearing OPI "Lincoln Park After Dark". I hate sports so I gotta show off my Chicago pride somehow.

A Day of Hearts

2010-02-15T00:53:00.020-06:00

I had a lovely Valentines day. I slept in, got a few Valentines from friends, decorated my floor with hearts, made some cookies, spent time with the Twinkle Toes, and watched the movie Valentine's Day. Since it's a Sunday, I even fit in some homework, haha. All of my activities are pictured above. Don't the hearts hanging form the ceiling lights look cool? I got kind of artsy with the Hershey's kisses photo, too.

I normally don't wear makeup, but since today's a special day, I got to FINALLY try out my What's My Virtue lip gloss and dress up a bit:

Lip Gloss: What's Your Virtue?
Necklace: gift from sister
Dress: store in Singapore
Button Up: Target
Belt: Mango
Bag: old, old Christmas gift
Tights: Forever 21
Socks: high school uniform
Boots: adidas from DSW

LAST NOTE: You've got to check out Healthy and Homemade. This isn't just a fashion blog, it's all about good food and recipes too! I just found her blog and she's having her first giveaway!!! It's for a pair of tights from We Love Colors.

xo, Alexi

Despite the Snow

2010-02-12T12:50:00.016-06:00

I had an induction ceremony to go to last Sunday. The attire was business casual, so of course I saw this as an excuse to wear a cute dress despite the freezing cold, haha. I froze just a little bit on the way there, and I was convinced that my heels would be the death of my in that snow, but it's okay. I survived. There were these chocolate dipped strawberries that I didn't stop eating, and some mini baked potato appetizers. Don't you just love mini food? All the flavor's there in one bite!

Jacket: Felia's Basement
Necklace: a boutique in Belmont
Dress: Mango
Tights: American Eagle
Purse: grandmother's
Shoes: Zara

You can't really see my accessories well since there were taken on Photobooth, haha. I'm so professional. Here you go:

The dress is actually my sister's. See how good she looks in it?! Photo complement of my grandmother:

xo, Alexi

RIP Alexander McQueen

2010-02-11T18:30:00.002-06:00

So tragic.

Sick...

2010-02-09T10:46:00.018-06:00

Hello Blog World! Oh how I've missed you!!!!
I'm sorry I've been gone all weekend. I unexpectedly got sick, so I'm doing something for myself this weekend and I'm taking Friday and Sunday off of work.

There's so much to do, and so much to say. First of all, two packages arrived yesterday :D Since I felt horribly sick yesterday, I decided to dress up a bit to make me feel better. What works for you when you try to brighten up your day a bit?

The big box was from Amy on The Bargain Hunter Extraordinaire!!!! It's this adorable pouch and it's the first giveaway I've won. The second package was 4 lip glosses from What's Your Virtue. Elaine from Clothed Much actually introduced the brand to me :-)

Earrings: Martin + Osa
Cardigan: Zara
Shirt: old, a boutique in New York
Skirt: H&M
Tights: layered combination of F21 and Target
Boots: Piperlime.com

P.S. I've received TWO more awards!!! I look forward to posting about it soon.

xo, Alexi

Nobody Else But You

2010-02-08T22:32:00.005-06:00

They say everyone needs a signature scent. It's that indefinably feminine thing we're all supposed to have going on. As someone who takes scent very seriously (I cannot abide bad smells at all, but then who can?) I completely see the appeal in having something that is definitively yours. A friend's sister told me she purposely used the exact same perfume, hairspray, and gum at all times to maintain her unique aroma, but that seems like an awful lot of effort. I'd settle for a signature perfume, but finding the perfect perfume is so hard. I wish I could pull a Serena Van der Woodsen and mix my own (in the books at least, I don't know about the TV show) but sadly I must rely on the kindness of designers.

Above are my three favorite scents. To the left is a fresh grassy smelling scent from Gap called "Minteva", next to that is a birthday gift from a dear friend, it's very spicy and oriental smelling. Last (and my favorite) is Marc Jacob's Daisy. I would gladly wear that everyday, but I'm afraid of running out (it's so expensive!).

I was just curious, do any of you have signature scents? I could also use some perfume recommendations. In general I like fresh scents, citrus, or spicy musky vampy scents. Not so much for the flowers. Post suggestion in the comments please, I'd love to see what you think.

P.S. If Alexi gets to put up a picture of her cat, I'm doing mine. Her name is Claidi, and she's fat, fluffy, and evil.

Our First Award!

2010-02-04T23:19:00.006-06:00

About a week ago, The Steampunk Dolls got our first award!! Thanks so sooo sooooo much to Amalia of Curly Hits You for passing on this award to us. Check out her site- she's this awesome stylish music lover and we wish our lives were as cool as hers.

So basically, we're supposed to write about 10 things that make us happy. So Genny will do five, and Alexi will do five. Sound fair?

Genny:
1) Snow faeries
2) Geeking out
3) VEGGIE POT STICKERS FROM RICE THAI CAFE (on Sheridan)
4) The scent of old books
5) CHIMPANZEE RIDING ON A SEGWAY

Alexi:
6) Cinnamon pretzels from Auntie Anne's
7) Belmont at 2am
8) How Genny types with one finger
9) Twinkle Toes (my spaz cat)
10) Avatar: The Last Airbender. I've got all the episodes.

Warner Bros

2010-02-02T20:12:00.011-06:00

I've had this pullover since forever. I don't even remember when or where I got it, but when I got to high school, I cut off the ends so it would still sort of fit me.

Dress: Marshall's
Bracelets: old stuff, mostly DIYs
Ring: sister's
Necklace: Macy's
Earrings: Macy's

I think I like it better when I smile in pictures. I don't know- it's like I'm trying to hard when I try to do that model pout and then it just looks silly.

LAST THING!! Do you guys read Clothed much? It's a great blog and you should check it out because Elaine from Clothed much is having a giveaway!!! The prize is a set of lip gloss that's really cool. I'd rave about it more, except you should check out the giveaway yourself!

xo, Alexi

Everything That Is Wrong About Us

2010-02-01T15:52:00.015-06:00

I'll admit it, I shop at American Apparel. They have great basics and the concept of plain block colored clothing is a great one. However, often when I'm forking over cash in that store I find myself cringing. Yes, they're over-priced and cheaply made, but more than that I find their oversexed marketing to be a turn off.

The two models pictured above are professional (in fact I believe one is a porn star). If you'd like to see an example of America Apparel ads that are nearly soft-core porn, there are plenty of those too (NSFW). These ads I don't like, but if some aspiring model/actress wants to get naked for a brand, it's her business. To me there's a difference between having a professional model signing a contract and American Apparel's amateur ad campaigns. A model is in the business, chooses to wear next to nothing, be plastered all over the US, and (most importantly) he or she gets paid and a clear stipulation of how the image will be used. On the other hand, American Apparel now encourages young women to submit their own mostly-nude photos on their own time for free. Maybe I sound like a prude but there's something about an underage girl buying see-through mesh booty shorts, then going home to photograph her nearly naked ass and hopefully submitting those photos to a company to put all over the Internet, for free, that seems exploitative. Not to mention all the allegations of sexual harassment going on at American Apparel head quarters (apparently the boss likes to get handsy with his employees).

The latest American Apparel gimmick is a "search for the best bottom in the world" where users (pretty much all female, as far as I can tell, no naked male butts to ogle) can submit photos of their ass in some form of American Apparel clothing and vote on which are the best butts. Most of the women are next to naked and seem pretty young. There's just something so sad about these women's eagerness to be pure sex objects and to have their looks degraded online. People vote on these photos, like an all ass version of "Hot or Not". I seriously doubt the girls who submit photos spend a lot of time considering what it will feel like to have strangers call their butts ugly. One could argue that American Apparel is doing a good and anti-elitist thing, allowing normal girls to get a chance at modeling. I did a little checking up on this and I have to say after surfing the site, I did not see a single heavy girl, or less than attractive, or even remotely normal looking person. All the amateur models are very thin, pretty, and have nice racks. No diversity here.

Obviously I have some pretty strong feelings about this latest ad campaign, but maybe I'm totally off the mark. Are these girls taking ownership of their bodies or allowing themselves to be used? Is it a sexy ad or just trashy? Would this stop you from buying American Apparel?

UPDATE:
Apparently others are pissed with American Apparel too
NYC Protest

Grammy Creativity

2010-01-31T20:48:00.033-06:00

I was very surprised with the unique outfits from this year's Grammy Awards.

So what do you guys think? Anything you liked or didn't like? I think my favorites out of these pictures are Fergie's and Carrie Underwood's.

The Grammy Awards were so entertaining! If you didn't watch it, youtube P!nk, Greenday, Beyonce, Lady Gaga and The Black Eyed Peas performances. I liked them all!

p.s. I wonder if the Jonas Brothers ever fight about who gets to wear what outfit.
I mean, I think I like the middle guy's is the best, but is he the fashionista of the group or did he just win the tug-of-war? Was he like, "But nick got to look trendy at the last public event so now it's my turn!"

xo, Alexi

Rosy skirt, poofy cheeks.

2010-01-29T12:13:00.005-06:00

Top: Christmas gift

Shirt: sister's, Forever 21
Shoes: sister's, Blowfish
Necklace: Forever 21

Ignore the mess, I was packing...
Anyways! It's Friday, yayyyy!!!! Hope you all have a great weekend. As for me, I've got work tonight and then hopefully a girl's night on Saturday :D

p.s. Ballerina's closet is having her FIRST GIVEAWAY! She's giving people an opportunity to win this absolutely beautiful ring!

xo,Alexi

"Hole-y" Shirt

2010-01-26T14:12:00.008-06:00

Top: Really old (I got it when I was 12), Target

Tank Top: Mom's
Skirt: Wet Seat
Shoes: My sister's from Aldo
Earrings: Gift
Rings: came in a set, Target

My sister hates this top and thinks it's ugly. But I don't know, I kind of like it...

xo, Alexi

I Want

2010-01-25T03:52:00.006-06:00

I was shopping mod cloth and once again found a bunch of things to lust after I'm way too poor for. Mostly I love the names they give their clothing:

Sci Fi Heroine Dress (I wanna be a sci-fi heroine soooo bad!)

Windy City Dress (I live in Chicago, I am powerless to resist)

Lucky Star Dress in Dance (not an exciting name, it is a pretty dress though)

And lastly, the Fiona Short (named for Fiona Apple)

I absolutely love the snow (I made up a whole religion centering around my love for snow) but I do miss strolling around downtown in floaty sundresses (don't tell the snow faeries).

Our Dear 30 Followers

2010-01-24T23:50:00.009-06:00

We just want to say to the 30 people officially following us,

THANK YOU!!!!!!!

We can't believe that that many people read our little blog regularly and we're so glad you do! Without readers our blog is just two lonely girls writing in a public diary. With readers we get to pretend to be cool. Thanks again- we like- totally love you guys.

And here are some steampunk fashion pictures to spice up this post:

Weren't those awesome?

San Carlos

2010-01-23T17:19:00.022-06:00

My grandparents have a house in San Carlos that's absolutely beautiful.

earrings: tj maxx
coat: sister's
jeans: h&m
boots: american eagle

Just to switch things up, I took some photos of my photographer that day, my sister Audrey. Of course, she felt uncomfortable with me doing that, haha.

hat:target
shirt: gift
button up: pacsun
jeans: not sure
shoes: blowfish

xo, Alexi

Thinking Up Titles Is Such a Pain In The Ass

2010-01-23T14:34:00.004-06:00

So I've been looking for a good pair of boot cut boyfriend jeans for forever and been failing miserably. All the girl's pants are way too tight in the ass and super low-cut. Then I discovered the boy section. With beautiful long jeans that fit around the waist but not too tight in the butt, and big pockets too! Don't even get me started on how warm and comfy that sweater is.

I said in a previous post I wanted to try something different style-wise, so I tried this. I absolutely love people with a super casual laid-back style, not the ones who wear sweatpants to class, but the vaguely hippie chillout style. I'm also a big fan of grunge. I love being girly, but I have to say it's nice being warm and comfortable all day. I think I'll have to invest more time in finding nice looking casual clothes.

Jeans, sweater and shirt from Urban. Orange shoe is mine, blue shoe belongs to my friend Sally.

Musings on Gender in Fashion Pt. 1

2010-01-21T23:14:00.011-06:00

I've been thinking lately about androgyny and gender bending. Well, I've always been interested in the topic, but it came more to the forefront of my mind over break, when armed with a gift card from Urban I ended up spending it all in the menswear department. It's funny how in those stores there is a clear women section and a men section, and most of us keep to those sections. What makes an item of clothing male vs. female (I mean besides the obvious tailoring and cut differences)?

I think it's interesting that menswear is really trendy right now on women, but yet women's clothing is still extremely taboo on men. A prime of example of someone who says "fuck that" to those taboos is a friend named Khonsu (pictured below), who demonstrates that men look damn fantastic in women's wear. Khonsu and I attended high school together and I always thought his personal sense of style was daring, innovative, and completely original (everything I said fashion ought to be in my previous post, you'll notice).

So, why is it OK for a girl to wear her boyfriend's jeans, but not OK for him to slip on her dress? I think it's all on how we define femininity and masculinity. For a long time in history female roles and male roles in a community were different, but considered of equal value. Then a time went on things changed and women were seen as vastly inferior to men. It's only very recently that equality in gender roles has been advocated for. My suspicion is that when women act "masculine"* it's like dressing "up", dressing above one's station. When men act "feminine"* it's moving down in life, degrading. This is just my personal theory, made up on the fly. I'm interested to know what you guys think about this as well. I personally find androgyny to be sexy and incredibly interesting as a fashion choice, on both women and men. Are you a fan? Do you think the rules for men in women's clothing will change anytime soon? Do you wear anything that is ambiguously gendered? Gender identity really fascinates me, so I'm begging you for comments.

*I don't even want to begin to deconstruct what masculine and feminine really mean, gender roles, transgender, etc, so I put quotes to avoid all that, seeing as this post is epically long already.

Top Shopping

2010-01-21T10:11:00.012-06:00

Every once in a while I allow myself to browse through the Top Shop store online and weep a little bit because I don't have money or a store close by. Here's some of the stuff I'd like to snag:

Eyelet Clutch Bag $65

Trim Tea Dress $90

Joseph Shoe Boots $135

Strawberry Studs $12

Leather Frill Clutch Bag $80

Would anyone be interested in weeping with me?

Also, there's this giveaway on http://thebargainhunterextraordinaire.blogspot.com. You should check it out! There's this adorable pouch up for grabs!

xo, Alexi

Different Clothes, Same Outfit

2010-01-20T17:06:00.006-06:00

So I intended to do another post on my apres-Christmas bounty, but taking these I realized it's pretty much the same outfit as before. Tights? Check. High-waisted skirt? Check. Funky shoes? Check. I wear a high-waisted skirt with tights and a cardigan almost everyday (unless I'm wearing a dress with tights and a cardigan). On the one hand, it's always a good idea to have a simple go-to style for when you need to look stylish without putting a lot of thought in (ex. first week back at school). On the other hand, true style is all about innovation and originality, so clearly I need to shake things up. I'm planning a different kind of outfit for tomorrow, so we'll just have to see what you think.

Do you have a style or outfit that you use as your go-to? Any suggestions for what I should do to break up my routine? Are you a fan of classic style or do you tend towards the more shocking or contemporary? Let me know!

Also, a couple people commented in my last post about my collage. So here is Genny's 8 Step Guide to A Dorm of Style and Cheap Class
Step 1: Wait until the night before an exam or paper. Procrastination ADD energy is crucial.
Step 2: Purchase a magazine you read regularly.
Step 3: Make green tea. I recommend Tazo tea in Zen flavor
Step 4: Read magazine and drink green tea. Feel happy.
Step 5: Rip out cool looking ads, photo shoots, whatever
Step 6: Tape them to your walls. I prefer OCD straight lines (what is it with me and mental disorders, huh? Hint, I'm crazy), but you can also cut out images and make some real art, if you're so inclined
Step 7: Admire.
Step 8: You might want to consider starting that paper now. Or decorate another wall, it's your choice.

Urban shoes, tights, shirt, and skirt. Anthropologie sweater.

Genny, Looking Less Fly Than Alexi And Also Tired, But Still Pretty Good Looking, Or So She Likes To Think.

2010-01-20T01:07:00.004-06:00

So I gots new clothes for the holidays, and lucky you, y'all get to be updated. I apologize for the weird poses and poor quality, I live in a closet sized room not at all set up for photoshoots. Target shirt, Urban outfitters skirt and tights, steve madden boots. Thanks to my mere for the skirt and boots!

Alexi Lookin' Fly

2010-01-19T20:28:00.003-06:00

These are some super old pictures of Alexi (you can tell by the bare legs and lack of snowdrifts). She is clearly adorable and obviously the real talent behind this blog. Thus with this post I suggest we all reflect on why we all love Alexi. <3

P.S. I've totally forgotten what brands Alexi was wearing, maybe she can say in the comments.

To Hipster, or Not to Hipster?

2010-01-19T20:10:00.005-06:00

OK, first off I'm sorry I've been MIA on this blog for so long, break lacked the fashion inspiration needed to properly post. Secondly, I have a profound and deeply ethical quandary I need our followers (27! Holy merde!) to weigh in on.

So this year I've gone around mocking anyone and everyone wearing fake glasses, that is until a friend of mine whose opinion I hold in the utmost respect proudly wore a pair, and looked adorable. Not only that, but she made me try them on, then flattered my ego to the point I purchased a pair and have tentatively worn them around town a few times. So here's my question: Are fake glasses just another charming accessory for the non-visually challenged, or are they fit only for pretentious wannabe hipsters?

I'm begging you, let me know, is my face more pleasing to the eye with glasses, or are they too magniloquent to bear?

Golden Globe Awards 2010

2010-01-18T16:33:00.018-06:00

There were some gowns that I was very impressed and disappointed with last night. I tried to narrow this list down, so here we go! (just click the picture for larger images)
The ones that I didn't like so much were:

I was shocked by this Alexander McQueen gown. I'm a huge fan of Cameron Diaz and I was expecting something more flattering on her amazing body.

I like that Fergie chose an Elie Saab in this color, but this one sort of reminded me of junior prom...

I'm not gonna lie- this vintage YSL is lovely, but for the Golden Globes? I was expecting more from the woman who sat next to Paul McCartney.

I appreciate that Kate was going for a different with this Marchesa instead of sticking with something safe, but in the end, this dress was a bomb.

In my humble opinion- Chloe Sevigny's Valentino dress was the worst one there. Sorry.

The ones I loved:

I'm a big fan of Emily Blunt's Dolce and Gabana.

I'm not a big Maggie Gyllenhaal, but I have to admit that I was thoroughly impressed with her light coral Roland Mouret.

I've heard a lot of bad stuff about Sandra's Bogetta Vantena, but I was actually in love with its purple-ness! Maybe I'm just biased, because I love Sandra Bullock.

What can I say? Garner's Versace dress is just as classic as she is.

Felicity Huffman wore a beautiful nude outfit that she looked stunning in.

Hands down- my favorite of the night. I've never watched Glee, but I think Dianna Agron looked absolutely stunning. Perhaps it's a little boring compared to the other gowns of the night, but it's something I'd wear in a heartbeat.
xo, Alexi

Once Upon a Summer

2010-01-16T12:22:00.006-06:00

Sorry we haven't been around much these past few days! Anyways, these pictures are old, but I found them while trying to make some space in my picture folders (my start-up disc is almost full!!!)

Dress: Top Shop
Earrings: Singapore

Have a great weekend, lovelies!
xo, Alexi

The Procrastinator's Guide to Packing.

2010-01-13T01:59:00.008-06:00

1) What are you waiting for?! Pack now!!!

2) Seriously though, tell yourself that you're leaving THREE days before your actual departure date. That way you leave yourself one day of last minute packing, another for cleaning the mess and last minute visit from friends, and another day for packing in all the extra stuff you found while you were cleaning.

3) Step three would say to make a checklist, but who are we kidding?

4) At least make sure the stuff you packed matches.

5) Don't forget about shoes. Your new years resolution for working out isn't exactly going to work out if you're only bringing heels. And your cute outfit you planned for the theater isn't going to work with sneakers (unless that's the look you're going for). Trust me. I've fallen into both traps.

6) Always have a pen handy in your carry-on.

7) LEAVE ROOM IN YOUR SUITCASE, FOR GOD'S SAKE. No need to over stuff things. Always have extra space in case you go shopping and don't go over the weight limit.

8) Do yourself a favor and have a carry on that wheels around. Even if you don't want to be one of those people. They make good foot rests anyways.

9) Double check for all your paperwork: ID, passport (if necessary), ticket, flight information, etc.

10) Don't forget to put your liquids in a sandwich bag. Security will bite your head off.

World Traveler by NEED$$forFASHION featuring Juicy Couture bags

I'm packing for Chicago. Once again, I will be pulling an all-nighter to get all this packing done. And even after making this list, my lesson isn't learned. After all, I'm blogging when I should be getting my ass in gear.

LAST NOTE: THANKS SO SO SOOOOOO MUCH TO ALL OF YOU GUYS WHO STOP BY AND READ STEAMPUNK DOLLS!!! We've got 20 followers now :D
xo, Alexi

Concert shirts & lovely giveaways

2010-01-11T18:54:00.006-06:00

First of all, this is the Bon Bon Girl's first blog birthday!!! They have been blogging for a year now, so stop by their site to say happy birthday, check out their awesome posts, and see what they're giving away! They're having a FULL WEEK OF GIVEAWAYS starting today, which is amazing.

Next on the list- They're overpriced, often tacky, and they hardly ever fit, but I fall for it EVERY TIME. (drum roll....) They're concert shirts! The only time I haven't bought a concert shirt was at the Flo Rida concert, and that's only because there weren't any. It's sad but true... Starting from top left to bottom right: Black Eyed Peas, Gabe Bondoc, Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds, Cartel, Fall Out Boy, Backstreet Boys, Rihanna, Destiny's Child, Katy Perry, Lifehouse, Taylor Swift, Spice Girls, Plain White T's
There's a wide variety of music represented there, and this isn't all of it. I was just excited to be reunited with my collection since I keep most of them at home.

I LOVE wearing them with patterned skirts. I didn't happen to have any clean ones today, but I'll make a post soon.... ish.

Now I've gotta clean all the concert shirts on my floor. Uh oh.

xo, Alexi

Summer '06- Featuring the Bon Bon Rose Girls!

2010-01-08T12:16:00.013-06:00

Bon Bon Rose Girls is one of the coolest blogs out there. The authors are two friends who write have fun, original posts. Check out their site: http://bonbonrose9.blogspot.com/

Bon Bon Rose has also single-handedly inspired this post. Feathers are now in fashion, and I had this wonderful pair of feather earrings from 4 summers ago (I was so little and 16!!!). Here are some of my more fashionable pictures from that summer:

1) Feather Earrings. I got these babies from Spain. Sorry the pictures aren't that great, but you get the general idea.

2) Jean Vest. Mine's pimped out just a little bit. I got it from a local department store in the Philippines

3) Bold colors. This number was made by the very talented Rajo, the guy in the first picture. The second picture is just a different view of the outfit. Isn't it great?! It's actually a tank top with a jumper bubble skirt.

4) Wing Earrings. I bought these earrings from Target and fell in love with them. When I came back after summer, everyone was wearing them.

xo, Alexi

Jimmy Choo Clutches

2010-01-07T18:19:00.015-06:00

I'm in love with this season's clutches from Jimmy Choo. The lightning bolt one, especially. Look at all the fun colors! Which one do you like best?
xo, Alexi

Salute

2010-01-05T19:31:00.002-06:00

This is my new hat!!
hat: diesel
earrings: spain
top: grandmother's

A New Balance

2010-01-03T04:15:00.010-06:00

For those of you who aren't so familiar with the shoe brand New Balance, they make sneakers that are designed for comfort. Actually, the sneakers originally became successful because they marketed to the elderly, providing shoes that catered to the wide feet.

Interesting, right? Well now New Balance has found that it doesn't hurt to make their sneakers fashionable as well.

Given their track record, I was surprised to see some of these new kicks:

Apparently New Balance is now collaborating with Nine West for a more stylish look. I'm not much of a sneaker person myself, but I was impressed with the turnaround.
xo, Alexi

Deborah Lippmann: nail lacquer

2009-12-28T14:34:00.018-06:00

For those of you who are not familiar with Deborah Lippmann, she is an expert fashion manicurist who has her own nail polish line. What's so cool is that her nail polish isn't simply nail polish. I mean she gets to work with celebrities for new colors, and comes out with some really cool collections. And of course, as true with most nail polishes, the colors have very clever names. Here are a few of my favorite shades:

from left to right: just walk away renee (by renee zellwager), happy birthday! (one of their newest shades), don't call me baby (operah's pick for the summer), tiny dancer

You can buy these shades online, but most of it's sold out.
xo, Alexi

A Season for Ms.Matching

2009-12-23T11:53:00.007-06:00

I love how in the attempt to stay warm at any cost, people wear some pretty ridiculous stuff. When you live somewhere cold, it doesn't matter if you look kinda weird, as long as you are warm. Well this is me in the lounge, staying warm and displaying the latest it's-so-unbelievably-cold-outside fashion.
xo, Alexi

Shirt from Delia's, shorts and socks from American Eagle, thermal pants from good ol' trusty Target

Agyness and I say bye to Chicago

2009-12-15T13:03:00.002-06:00

Well, finals week is over and I'm going to head back home on Thursday. I've done lots of packing and last-minute shopping. Goodbye, Chicago! I'll miss your snow and ever-windy sidewalks.
xo, Alexi

P.S. How amazing is Agyness in this photo shoot?

Shoe Lust

2009-12-09T11:03:00.003-06:00

I want these. So fucking badly. The $3480 price tag is pretty off-putting though.
Site you can buy them at
The amazing Luxirare post I found them in.

Male Modeling

2009-12-06T11:05:00.005-06:00

My dear brother is stuck in a house full of girls. There's four of us against one of him, the poor thing. This is what we have done to him.

xo, Alexi

Shadow play

2009-11-30T15:18:00.007-06:00

These are from an older post (titled My Fall Break). I was just testing my Photoshop skills or lack thereof... Hope you enjoy them anyways!
xo, Alexi

Charity Case?

2009-11-28T17:43:00.003-06:00

Who wants to help me raise £500.00 so I can have this girdle dress? Any takers? No? Fine, be that way...

(P.S. I first saw this from Style Bubble, because Susie Bubble is the shit)

Thanksgiving dinner= Thanksgiving outfit

2009-11-26T17:40:00.008-06:00

Out to my Thanksgiving dinner! It's pretty chilly outside, so I thought it wouldn't hurt to layer up. Also, my boots are still in storage boxes, so it's just my frumpy ones for tonight. Oh well- I'm off to get fat and happy.
Skirt from H&M, Sweater from H&M (bought it four years ago), Coat from Papaya, Boots were a gift from my mama
xo, Alexi

Safari in the City

2009-11-25T20:39:00.003-06:00

Wore this on an incredibly cold day at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-25T19:51:00.002-06:00

This Thanksgiving I am thankful for...
Audrey Kawasaki.

....& my sister, Audrey.
xo, Alexi

Elitism

2009-11-24T22:14:00.005-06:00

"People of Walmart" is a website I think pretty much everyone has seen, and let's be honest, it's really funny. Mostly it has people at Walmart, either dressed trashy or looking completely insane. The things people are wearing go beyond the territory of faux-pas, and straight into ridiculous mockability. However, when surfing the site I can't help but notice that the majority of those presented do not look well off. In fact many of them appear dirty, unkempt, or to be wearing extremely old garments. Which begs the question, is it OK to mock the poor for bad clothing? I would hope the answer is no, but that brings us back to the website, which apparently says it is.

This in turn got me thinking about the problem that many people have with the fashion industry, which is that it is an elitist institution. Not only are the clothes expensive, but they change every season, meaning one has to toss out the old and buy buy buy the new. Not only does that make the lower class (and even the middle) exempt from current style, it's also completely unsustainable. One can always shop vintage or try one of these eco-friendly fashion groups, but the point still stands. I like to argue that fashion is an art form, and art has always been superfluous and ridiculous. However, I'm not sure if that still applies. Is fashion an art and thus exempt from our usual judgements? Is it an elitist intuition? And, is people of Walmart a hilarious blog or a cruel way to mock the less fortunate?

Yea or Nay?

2009-11-24T11:41:00.002-06:00

This dress has been sitting in my Mod shopping cart for a while now and I think it's time to make a decision. It's $44.99 which isn't too expensive. I really like it and I could use more winter dresses. I haven't shopped in a while and maybe it could be a Thanksgiving gift to myself (a bit of a stretch, I know, but it's so cute!). The down side is that Christmas is coming up so maybe I should save... PLUS I've never bought anything from Mod Cloth before and I'm scared of it not fitting correctly or something. What do you think?
xo, Alexi

Guessing Game!

2009-11-21T02:47:00.004-06:00

Guess where these are from... by NEED$$forFASHION featuring American Eagle Outfitters jewelry

Soooooo really. Can you guess where these are from?

Readyyyyyyyyyyyy? American Eagle! Isn't that crazy? I spent so much money when I was there the other day. I have always liked their stuff a lot, but these new items seem so AE-ish! Haha. I didn't really expect to find these there.
xo, Alexi

Independent Spirits Think Alike

2009-11-16T23:14:00.007-06:00

Basically everyone with a high-speed Internet connection has seen Lady GaGa's new music video/single, "Bad Romance", and it's totally awesome. My favorite part though, is Lady GaGa rocking Alexander McQueen's unique stilettos. If you look at this video, they first appear at 3:27. What I love about these shoes is that they're ugly. There is no getting around the fact that they strongly resemble lobster claws. However, this is all irrelevant. The shoes are concept pieces, they aren't meant to be dainty & pretty, they are meant to push the bounds of fashion & design. And that's a message Lady GaGa can clearly appreciate, as it seem she made a special part of her music video dedicated to the shoes.

Although a lot of GaGa fans may not realize this, but "Bad Romance" was officially premiered not this past week, but during Fashion Week. Alexander McQueen used it as the musical backdrop to his collection (check the video- more shoes!). So in this case, did fashion inspire the music video or was Lady GaGa merely saying thank you? Either way, I love that these two independent spirits are collaborating.

Beauty in Strange Places

2009-11-16T23:04:00.004-06:00

So, this is definitely very bizarre, but I think these tooth- filled jewelry pieces are completely awesome (original source here). There is something oddly beautiful about wearing part of the human body as jewelry (not in the creepy Ed Gein way). I think what I like about it is it's sort of a natural, tribal concept made into a post-modern, weirdo piece of jewelry. Also I have to wonder where the teeth came from...

40 years old

2009-11-10T23:09:00.012-06:00

So if you guys use Google, you'll know exactly what inspired this post. Sesame Street premiered on November 10th, 1969 and is celebrating its 40th anniversary! We still have old sesame street tapes at my house and they bring back so many memories... My dad told me that when I was little, I was a total bully with the TV and I'd make him change the channel from his basketball games to Sesame Street and since I'm the oldest kid, my parents weren't used to that. I also remember having Sesame Street nicknames for all of my dad's friends. He was still in the beginning of medical school when I was born and he was the only one out of all of friends with a kid, they used to play with me a lot during study groups. It's kind of embarrassing because whenever my dad has reunions, I can never remember their real names.
Well anyways, in case you can't recognize the designers, here they are in order:
1) Diane von Furstenberg with Big Bird
2) Derek Lam & Thakoon Panichgul with Bert & Ernie
3) Vera Wang with Abby Cadabby
4) Oscar de la Renta with Oscar the Grouch
5) Francisco Costo with Grover
6) Carolina Herrera with Elmo
7) Kate and Laura Mulleavy with Cookie Monster
These pictures are from: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-articles/sesame-street-fashion-0909 There's a really cool article!
xo, Alexi

Anti Smoking Ads

2009-11-07T21:22:00.006-06:00

First of all, I want to clarify that I'm actually not anti-smoking. I just found these ads so interesting! I hope you do, too.
Secondly, Eryk Fitkau is absolutely amazing! Check out his other creative fashion ad campaigns at http://www.eryk.com.au/
xo, Alexi

and there goes my morning.

2009-11-07T10:46:00.003-06:00

News: Girl Does Polyvore All Morning. by NEED$$forFASHION featuring Humanoid

I've been on Polyvore since the moment I woke up. Addicted much?
xo, Alexi

Judith Leiber

2009-11-02T22:50:00.010-06:00

They're tiny, they're cute. They're Judith Leiber clutches!

Leiber is a handbag master. She has permanent displays in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), Smithsonian Institution (Washington, D.C.), and the Victoria and Albert Museum (London) in addition to countless exhibitions and awards.

These are some of her novelty handbags that I love.
xo, Alexi

Ripped Jeans & Tutus

2009-11-02T22:30:00.013-06:00

Are you a wild thing?

2009-11-01T18:45:00.009-06:00

Here are some of my Where The Wild Things Are Polyvre sets. They were actually inspired by a contest challenge.
Enjoy!
xo, Alexi

Dressing Like Carol by NEED$$forFASHION featuring Miu Miu shoes

You're the owner of this world. by NEED$$forFASHION featuring GAP

Wild Rumpus Time! by NEED$$forFASHION featuring Opening Ceremony

Lookbook!

2009-11-01T15:59:00.007-06:00

THEY SENT ME AN INVITE CODE! I AM ON LOOKBOOK! I FEEL LIKE A FULLY VALIDATED PERSON NOW!!!

Hype please!

It's Spooky Season

2009-11-01T00:42:00.007-05:00

Since it's Halloween, nothing seems more appropriate than English designer, Gareth Pugh. Check out his wonderful works. Amazing or what?!

Hope you enjoyed!
xo, Alexi

East Meets West

2009-10-31T20:53:00.012-05:00

This is a beyond amazing shirt my good friend Sally Johnson made in weaving class in high school. The assignment was East meets West, so she made a kimono style top out of denim with beautiful rainbow silk. I modeled it for her so she could submit it to a contest. I still think this is one of the most innovative yet wearable designs I've ever seen.

In addition to the Sally Johnson original top I am wearing Urban Outfitter's jeans and vintage cowboy boots. Photography done by Sally Johnson, make-up and hair done by Allie Moore (2007).

If I Were A Rich Girl

2009-10-29T02:21:00.007-05:00

So this is a gazillion dollars, but I love (Product)RED items!
xo, Alexi

Taylor Momsen

2009-10-28T17:58:00.005-05:00

Little J is for Jealous. I wish I looked as friggin cute as her.

Fun fact: I used to be completely anti-gossip girl. Oh, how things have changed!

xo, Alexi

Lookbook!

2009-10-26T22:24:00.001-05:00

I finally did it, I applied to lookbook! I got an automatic response along the lines of "we're not taking anyone new now but we'll let you know when we send out more invites" which probably means "absolutely not" but I'm excited anyways.

Genny Finally Speaks

2009-10-26T20:09:00.014-05:00

Alexi is putting me to shame with her plethora of posting, so I finally decided to write something. This weekend I got some decent shopping in and bought these two skirts from Urban, which I'm way excited about. I love studded things, especially studded shoes (of which I own none) and studs were big at fashion week this year.

I haven't worn the tulle skirt yet, but this is how I wore the studded one today.

The sweater is from Target, the skirt, tank, and tights are from Urban.

Highly Skilled in Retail Therapy

2009-10-26T14:41:00.006-05:00

I just bought this hat after having a long and tiring day of classes.

C+ in saving money

(which I should be doing)

A in retail therapy

(which I should not be doing)

I'd say I'm satisfied with an overall B+

xo, Alexi

I NEED these...

2009-10-21T23:45:00.007-05:00

I want these shoes I have never wanted shoes before. I'm thinking that maaaaaybe since it's getting late that I'm not thinking correctly. They're $80, which is a lot for me. Especially considering that they're boots and I already have 4 pairs. But the internet is just too enabling, and these shoes are just too damn cute. Maybe I'll just sleep on it.

...Or maybe I'll buy this as soon as this posts.
xo, Alexi

Fall Break

2009-10-21T18:37:00.026-05:00

These are pictures from my Fall Break.

(1) My room is extremely messy. For some reason, people generally don't believe me when I say that it's a pig sty. Well, here's proof.
(2) I don't actually own that door, but it's way cool.
(3) Happily holding a bag of comics.
xo, Alexi

Dress from H&M; Cardigan from Target (Mossimo); Shoes from DSW (BC); Belt from Mango; Scarf from Mom's closet (literally); Earrings and necklace from Singapore

The Magnificent Mile

2009-10-21T14:49:00.018-05:00

This is the reason why I love having class in downtown Chicago: the ads that fill Magnificent Mile. Commuting can be a pain, but I especially love passing by this Carmen Kass picture (Michael Kors) and the Plaza Escada. I think the photo in the Escada display window is always beautiful, and it's a great way to start my mornings. Holly Golightly had Tiffany's? Well I have the Plaza Escada.
xo, Alexi

white shirt + jeans

2009-10-16T16:53:00.034-05:00

It's nice to know that the white t-shirt and jeans look will never get old. You can dress it up, dress it down, girly, punk, comfy, sweet, sexy, young, old, risque... This is me running into people who also love the look in one day:

Shirt from Zara (on sale, baby), Belt from Mango, Purse from H&M, Shoes from some local Filipino shoe store that starts with a "J". Helpful, I know.
xo, Alexi

Two Dolls in the City

2009-10-16T15:14:00.014-05:00

Photoshoot in the city!

Genny is wearing a dress found at Ella's Vintage Clothing (Traverse City, MI), Steve Madden boots, H&M socks, and a Salvation Army purse. Alexi is wearing a skirt and t-shirt from a flea market in SIngapore and boots from Zara.

10 Things I Don't Hate About You (Genny)

2009-09-10T01:49:00.000-05:00

1) Genny does not have love handles. Correction: one love handle.
2) She's always got amazing facebook profile pictures.
3) I randomly find her jogging outside, in the gym, or up and down the hallway.
4) She has cool boarding school friends... aka her friends are better than yours. Be jealous.
5) Genny listens to cool music.
6) This woman has started her own religion. Tell me, do you believe in The Holy Power of Snow Faries? Because I do.
7) She was totally my resident last year.
8) She was one of the few that actually came to programs. Thanks, Genny.
9) Her bedsheets are Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
10) Her shoes take up half of the closet. Once again, be jealous.

10 Things About Alexi

2009-09-10T01:41:00.001-05:00

1) Makes the best rice dish, ever.
2) Has an adorable kitten face*
3) All of her cool clothes are from the Phillipines
4) She's a model! (once in the Phillipines)
5) Has a job making fantastic smoothies.
6) Her room is always a disaster zone. Always.
7) She was totally my RA last year
8) She likes Twilight (I judge. Only a little).
9) She never sleeps
10) And she's the shit. Hella!

*phenomenon wherein she gets electrified by the very sight of a kitten. She's a big fan of kittens.