roxyland

A new challenge...

2010-02-23T11:05:00.001-08:00

...is in store for me. With changes in career, education and LIFE coming up, I've decided to start transitioning this blog for dual purposes: to help me journal about parts of my life and to keep me accountable for the goals I will set for myself.I have a habit of pretty much doing whatever I want, which is great for personal freedom but terrible for getting things done, for coming to terms with

I've got a bad romance...

2009-12-26T15:53:00.000-08:00

...for Lady Gaga. Maybe it's because she reminds me of Madonna or because she's just weird and different and making a splash in pop music - I don't know, I just heart her. Since I believe I was a pop princess/Broadway star/cool rock chick in my former life, Lady Gaga possesses the trifecta that makes me envious: She writes excellent pop melodies, she wears things I could never pull off and she

This is what I feel like today...

2009-12-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

A little whiny. A little bad-hair day. A little tired. A little guilty for being inside my own head for so many hours and for (always) procrastinating. Peace out.

No sequin love...

2009-12-14T14:21:00.000-08:00

OK, I KNOW that sequins are totally "in" right now, especially for the holidays. I just want to say that I, myself, will not be participating in this awfully tricky trend. Sometimes, you just have to appreciate a trend for what it is, realize that it's not for you and then rationally decline that fashion invitation.Did I fool you??I'd like you to think that I was so reasonable about not jumping

New website/blog love...

2009-12-13T17:37:00.000-08:00

Lovelies! I found some NEW places online that I love to go to in order to waste time and daydream about fashion (as if I needed more reasons)...First up - SPOOL NO.72 Clothing Company! Not only is the name just super-cool and throwback-sounding, but the site has lovely photography and unique, cozy, beautiful pieces that could really add something special to your basics. Sweaters, unique

We dream...

2009-11-27T11:32:00.000-08:00

...of nature-inspired jewelry that's actually affordable!Check out one of my new favorite sites: WeDreamInColor.com for amazingly detailed, beautiful, feminine pieces that would work equally well for dressing up jeans or paired with a cocktail dress.I just love the vintage look of designer Jade Gedeon's hand-made pieces and how utterly wearable all of them are (AND how she models some of her own

Be like the peacock...

2009-09-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

...And put together some looks like these! My latest creation on Polyvore - don't you just love turquoise with anything? Fall Peacock... by roxy-land featuring Rebecca TaylorBTW ladies...Piperlime is having a contest that lets YOU play fashion editor for a chance to win a $250 Piperlime giftcard. Celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe picks the winners! Try it here. You know, just in case you were

Vintage and bibs...

2009-09-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

...make for excellent fall accessories!So lovelies, I'm sure you've noticed certain celebs and models sporting statement piece necklaces with their otherwise simple outfits (plain t-shirts, simple dresses, etc.), much like Molly Sims (see slide show).Imparting a cool, vintage, ladylike feel to an outfit with a lovely, bold necklace is an amazing way to stand out, be comfortable and jazz up the

Frugal + fashionista = ...

2009-09-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

...Frugalista! Most of you who are reading this, lovelies, are interested in fashion, beauty, lookin' pretty AND finding a good deal. Before now, I had never known there was a name for us - FRUGALISTAS.Used by the chicsters over at Target, the term "Frugalista" has an interesting, albeit short, linguistic history. According to the New York Times, in 2007, when a mild downturn was seen by some

OMG...

2009-08-25T07:08:00.000-07:00

Guess "Rumala" Over the Knee Boot at Nordstrom!I heart this boot. Mushroom color, soft leather, over-the-knee, 3.5" stacked heel. Under $200. Boot love. That is all I have to say.

Wrap me up...

2009-08-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

...in summer-to-fall wrap cardigans! Whether you find yourself in a seasonal fashion transition (which is starting soon, sorry dearies) or just want to be prepared for ever-present temperature changes (darn air conditioners!), a flowy, feminine wrap cardigan is the perfect piece to add to your wardrobe staples. I am a particularly big fan of the longer, slouchier, sans buttons, semi-shawl

Fall fashion predictions...

2009-08-03T09:08:00.001-07:00

It's only August you say! It's still 70ish degrees outside and sunny! I've barely gotten my newly-polished toes into my sandals! I know, I know ladies, but I'd like to give you a fall fashion prediction preview so that you can keep your eye out for some lovely things whilst sipping lemonade.PLAIDYes, lumberjack-y plaid. On a classic campshirt (sized down to fit your cute, feminine frame of

D.I.Y. time again...

2009-07-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

As you know, I'm a huge fan of DIY projects, especially when it involves clothing or accessories. One of my favorite sites ever, BurdaStyle, an excellent on-line community/open source for people who sew "with style," continually posts new creation ideas and how-to's in addition to hosting a space for cool, creative people all over the world to share their own stuff.This week, BurdaStyle

In search of the perfect nude...

2009-07-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Lip, that is! I have long coveted that classic, super-smokey eye and nude/neutral lip look that always finds its way back into makeup fashion, but have never been able to find the right product to do so (a la Kim Kardashian).So, upon wandering through the makeup department at Macy's, the oh-so-helpful girl at the Lancome counter answered my prayers! Part lip pencil, part lipstick, Lancome's Le

New wardrobe essential alert...

2009-07-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

Finally, the trend of volume and draping has made its way into mainstream fashion! Not only is it more comfortable, but it is often more flattering and interesting - 3 things that are great for anything you have to wear for more than a couple of hours.Take, for example, your basic t-shirt. While that standard white, ribbed neckline and tiny pocket version may still work as a classic, why not

Oh, oh UNIQLO...

2009-07-09T11:03:00.000-07:00

It's been said that if you were to take H&M and American Apparel + add a dash of Japanese fashion flair, you'd get UNIQLO. If you love the Euro and/or Japanese feel in your fashion and have a serious addiction to solid colors and well-made, affordable, comfy basics that you can make your own, this is the place to go.The Japanese characters for UNIQLO sound like "U-NI-KU-RO" which is, to a

If there's one shoe you must buy...

2009-06-30T05:38:00.000-07:00

...let it be a nude/neutral-colored platform pump. Beginning with the current season, this shoe will be the most versatile addition to your wardrobe and the accessory you never knew you couldn't be without.Equally excellent paired with dresses or suits, a closed-toe or peep-toe version in tan, khaki, nude, even gray can turn an otherwise standard outfit into a super-chic one. There's something

Bat your eyelashes...

2009-06-21T14:46:00.000-07:00

...especially if they're falsies! I have been to 2 weddings in 2 weeks, complete with the necessary grooming and preparation that we ladies require to feel and look our best (hairstyling, makeup, cocktail dress) along with the less obvious (waxing, strapless bras, etc.). However, I propose that the next best thing to having toned arms and the perfectly coordinated clutch are definitely, without

Don't you wish you were mod?

2009-06-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

Well, stop wishing girlies! One of my bestest friends, T, offered up this amazing online store that carries excellent trendy clothes and cheeky accessories at really affordable prices - perfect for all of us frugal fashionistas.ModCloth.com carries one-of-a-kind vintage and vintage-inspired finds, and everything from indie & retro to cute & emo...tops, dresses, purses, jewelry, la la la galore.

How do you do updo?

2009-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, girls, it's wedding season again. In full force. I get so tired of wearing the same hairstyle and always want a way to look a little more dressed up than the usual weekend look. So, after surfing around a bit, I found the amazing Johnny Lavoy, a hairstylist and makeup artist with Ford Models, who has a bunch of great video tutorials for modern, sexy hair online.I love this one in

2 Legit...

2009-06-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

...yes, 2 Legit 2 Quit. I KNOW I consistently date myself with posts on this blog, but I just can't help what I find funny, can I? In the spirit of the '90's, check this totally radical video out.First, a definition for those who are unfamiliar:Definition: A flash mob is a group of strangers who organize themselves, using electronic media such as cell phones or the Internet, to gather together

I love makeup...

2009-06-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

...and I especially love makeup/beauty blogs! Thanks to the wonders of the internet, there are countless blogs online that give great makeup reviews and, my favorite, beauty how-to's and tutorials. These are especially helpful whether you're wondering about a new beauty product or considering (finally) learning how to do that smokey eye thing.One of my go-to beauty blogs is by the fabulous

I'm dreaming of vintage...

2009-06-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

...in the form of a leather mini or pencil skirt, high-waisted or not, black, brown or bright, 70's or 80's, depending on the look you're going for. Picture it in all its tight, sexy gloriousness with a blousy, ruffly top or a tissue-thin, voluminous, v-neck t-shirt topped off with, of course, some bad-ass heels. The key here is to counteract its original era with a modern top and shoes as well

What happened to Blossom?

2009-05-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

If you are around my age, you watched the plethora of 1990's sitcoms that overtook the only networks that were on television at the time. Undoubtedly, you watched Mayim Bialik as Blossom, the quirky, independent, funny girl that dealt with the pre-teen angst we all felt growing up, complete with all the worst parts of '90's accessories. And remember her friend Six? Ridiculous...So, to my

Speaking of "The Fashion Show..."

2009-05-28T10:37:00.001-07:00

...alas, 'tis a poor substitute for "Project Runway." Although I respect Isaac Mizrahi as a designer, he is no match for the hilarious and constructive Tim Gunn and, let's face it - Kelly Rowland vs. Heidi Klum? Not happening, lovelies. Heidi definitely wins in that smackdown, don't you think?That does NOT, however, keep me from watching a reality/competition show about fashion my dearies!

Do you Lulu?

2009-05-25T16:25:00.001-07:00

Oh, lovelies, I have been away so long and for that, I deeply apologize. I went on a week-long vacation where there was no cell phone reception or internet connection so that I could take a much-needed rest. But no worries, I am back!I would love to tell you about the latest O.M.G. website I have found, just in time for all those summer nights out. Those of you who are particularly low on cash

On friends, chickens and otherwise (Entry #2)...

2009-05-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

Every girl has a girlfriend. Or in my case, 4 or 5. I'm not talking about co-workers, associates, surface friends, "going-out" friends, "be-seen-with" friends, your significant other's friends, Facebook friends...I mean those girlfriends with whom you have a true bond, with whom you have signed a golden, silent pact, with whom your spirit and secrets are safe. They come along only a few times

Turning around in circles...

2009-04-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

...with American Apparel's Unisex Circle Scarf!I'm sure you remember my last post about scarves and how I love them so much because of their unique ability to transform or tweak an outfit and because they're so darn affordable (See Sun 03/01 "Stick Your Neck Out")...Well, I particularly LOVE this scarf from one of my go-to-for-basics stores. It comes in three versions: Regular Solid, Super Sheer

Right Said Red...

2009-04-23T19:18:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness I heart this dress. I am so hoping that it looks as good on as it does online, because I am in dire need of a red dress, now that summer may actually be around the corner. This one is Forever 21's Flutter Chiffon Dress, for...yes, I'll say it...$22.80!However, girls, there is a very, very, fine fashion line between "beauty" and "booty" when it comes to pulling off lipstick red!

It's Definitely Tea Time...

2009-04-21T19:59:00.001-07:00

...when you shop at Sarah Seven!An independent designer out of Portland, OR, Sarah makes fabulously feminine, one-of-a-kind clothing that is seriously TO DIE FOR. An inspiration to my own fledgling seamstress efforts, her work has a floaty, ethereal feel to it yet manages to have wonderful fit and structure. I myself ordered the Tea Top (a beautiful pink silk chiffon corset top that makes me

To jumpsuit or not to jumpsuit...

2009-04-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

I say it's a YES. Whether it's halter or strapless, pants or shorts, I think it's a lovely, sexy, feminine look with a retro, 70's-ish feel. Instead of screaming, it just whispers summer and calls for flowy, tousled hair and a laid-back vibe...The challenge, however, is finding one that fits just right. For those with long torsos, this will be a bit of a problem, but never fear dearies, I will

It IS easy being green...

2009-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

...and fashionable at the same time. For the stylish and eco-conscious, there are several accessories possibilities for re-using, recycling and the like.Is your water healthy? My very environmentally-conscious Canadian bro-in-law told me months ago about the Canadian ban of Polycarbonate #7 bottles. Problems are especially linked to "throw-away" bottled water bottles AND hard, plastic "keeper"

Faux-ever and ever...

2009-04-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

...RoxyGirl will love new hairstyles, especially semi-non-committal ones! For those of you who want a flirty, fun look that's perfect for parties, going out or the endless nuptials that seem to come our way, I suggest the crazy adorable FAUX-BOB, a la Lauren Conrad and Rosario Dawson. It's the perfect way to change up your hair with just a bit of effort and a lot of sass. Bonus? Gets your

When you have a bad cold...

2009-04-11T05:34:00.000-07:00

...all you can really think about is wrapping yourself up and going to sleep. Alas, I CANNOT do that due to such obligations as work, family events, school, more work and general life. However, I CAN talk about what I've been secretely coveting for the past several months and especially this week as the faucet that is my nose runs uncontrollably.Yes, it is the Snuggie. After several viewings

I'm back lovelies!

2009-04-08T20:39:00.001-07:00

Oh my goodness, it has been several weeks since my last post! Due to so much studying, working, etc. I have had to (temporarily) abandon my daily blogging. However, that period is over and it is time to resume our daily chats - hooray!To ease back into things, let's start with something we all love to dish and dream about...SHOES of course! Partly because I am forced to be very frugal as of

Let's talk hair...

2009-03-11T19:20:00.000-07:00

...well, hair PRODUCTS, to be particular. Well, ONE hair product, to be exact. While I have been known to use up to 5 products at one time on my hair (yes, after shampoo and conditioner), there is one that I pretty much can't live without. Unless I want to look like a yeti that just woke up from hibernation.Bumble & Bumble's Styling Lotion is absolutely my hair's wonder-drug. Spritz liberally

Corsets...for your ankles!

2009-03-06T05:12:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've been AWOL lately lovelies...much to do with school and work and more school. I promise I will be more timely with my posts a month from now when the craziness slows down a bit. For now, I'll leave you with this whimsical, kinda crazy-sexy-cool yet somehow still girly accessory...Check out the EcoCorset Ankle Cuffs in brown suede by the etsy shop greenbelts!The designer, Shannon

Stick your neck out...

2009-03-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

For a gorgeous scarf. Next in my "efforts to look effortlessly cool" series is a fashion recommendation to all ladies - you must have at least a couple of beautiful scarves in your accessories arsenal. The history of the scarf dates back at least as far as ancient Rome, when a linen kerchief known as a sudarium (Latin for “sweat cloth”) was used by the Romans to wipe their necks and faces. The

Tiers...not just for cakes anymore!

2009-02-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

I've been noticing a trend in dresses lately that I wanted to get your opinion on, dear readers. Several designers and copycats have been turning out dresses with layers upon layers of fabric, all the way down the body. Now, not having yet tried on one of these designs, part of me thinks them quite girly and stylish but part of me thinks they might just add extra poundage to all but the tiniest

In the spirit of Marilyn...

2009-02-26T04:00:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine has quite the affinity for Marilyn Monroe memorabilia. And for good reason! Something about Marilyn just exudes sexiness, femininity, strength, allure and of course, old Hollywood glamour.In the spirit of Marilyn and in riding the wave of the pin-up revival that has been going strong in many cities, I've recently become very interested in this retro, rockabilly, super-glam

Raccoons are pretty...

2009-02-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

If they own their own etsy shop and make cool, one-of-a-kind clothing!PrettyRaccoon Clothing is an online shop based out of Toronto, Canada and featured on etsy.com whose designer makes and prints quirky, casual clothing that just has a lovely sense of fun about it. Lots of tee shirts, tube tops, scarves and hand screen printing - we love it! I especially love the Chandelier Print Gathered Tube

Crazy shoe obsession of the day...

2009-02-24T14:09:00.000-08:00

I KNOW you don't really need shoes. I KNOW you don't really need GREEN shoes. I KNOW you don't really need GOLD PLATFORM GREEN SATIN GLADIATOR-ISH shoes. But if you DID need them, these would be the ones!Fashion always skews this way and that into the realms of whimsy and crazy, because how can one be creative without at least considering the ridiculous? I believe these shoes are a testament

Gotta give it to my girl Angie...

2009-02-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

Part (okay MOST) of the fun of watching the Oscar Awards is dishing about the fashion. While some were yawn-worthy, others made up for it. And finally, Angelina Jolie dressed up again! Classic black, classic shape (love the sweetheart neckline) and classic jewelry in a very fresh color (green emeralds!) made her look like the modern movie star she is. I just love that she can dress so simply

Indie retail rocks my world...

2009-02-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

Tired of the mall? Looking for something different? Need some extra flash from your little wad of cash? Look no further, dear local readers, the boutiques are de-stashing & it's time to pump up your shopping cred...This Saturday, 02/21 from 9AM-4PM at Shorewood High School is the first-ever BOUTIQUE BLOWOUT! Several of the best, independent fashion boutiques around are banding together to

Million dollar butt...

2009-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Let's continue our denim discussion, shall we? Everyone has her own preferences in clothes, but ESPECIALLY JEANS. However, because I love them so much, I had to share my own favorites with you, my dear readers.The Keaton Boot Cut Jean by Earnest Sewn are the best jeans I've bought so far in my fashion life. Mid-rise (no muffin-top, ever!), dark-washed with minimal whiskering (or glitter,

American frock...

2009-02-17T18:36:00.000-08:00

In earlier posts, I lauded the great things about American Apparel, particularly how basic, versatile and easily personalized their pieces are. Plus, each one comes in such fun colors!AA's Baby Rib Pocket Frock is no exception. Available in 6 great colors (I'm partial to the royal blue m'self), this super-fun yet basic dress has 3/4 sleeves, a flattering boatneck and pockets (pockets on dresses

Skirt obsession of the day...

2009-02-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

So, today Urban Outfitters revealed what's new in their stores and online for spring - yay! The first thing that caught my eye I had to share with you, dear readers. Take a gander at the BDG Printed Pocket Knit Skirt, an super-soft circle skirt devoid of any extras like buttons or zippers without sacrificing prettiness.Love love love the nautical feel of the navy and white stripes - a perfect,

White eyelet & warm weather thoughts...

2009-02-14T16:38:00.000-08:00

Girly white eyelet - by roxy-land on Polyvore.comCrisp, white, feminine and a bit peek-a-boo sexy, anything made with eyelet fabric kind of makes you want to sit up straighter and do a little twirl. Lots of this is coming out for spring and summer which is so great, mostly because it can be an excellent, textured, neutral piece to go with most anything already in your closet. I particularly

My boyfriend's back...

2009-02-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

So let's talk "Boyfriend Jeans." This denim trend started showing up during Fall 2008 in Hollywood and, naturally, is hitting the regular RTW market en force now. Most denim lines have a version but the blogosphere is still debating whether or not this is a look we should even attempt, for fear of becoming fashion victims. Some noteable starlets who are responsible for beginning the obsession

Today's shoe obsession...

2009-02-11T09:52:00.001-08:00

In our ongoing efforts to look effortlessly cool (see effortlessly cool girl above), sometimes one must turn to the classics.Frye Boots have been around for ages (literally, 1863!), specialists in high quality work boots that have become, somewhere along the way, pretty darn fashionable.Because they already look broken in and scuffed, they can add that certain je ne sais quois to most anything

51st Grammy Awards...only the GOOD parts...

2009-02-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

So, for those of you who don't watch the Grammy Awards (and there are many!), take a minute to check out Radiohead's sublimely cool performance at the 51st Awards of "15 Steps" with the USC marching band bringing up the rear. They have always been original and didn't disappoint with this awesome live show. And who looks cooler than Thom Yorke in leather and high-tops?A close second place (

And she was called yellow...

2009-02-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

And she was called yellow... - by roxy-land on Polyvore.comThere is something about the color yellow that just exudes a kind of happy, carefree spirit, which is why I am ultra-excited about all of the new spring/summer styles that are coming out drenched in all of its sunniness.Want some ideas on how to wear it in order to look effortlessly fun instead of like a confused bumblebee? See my latest

Dress obsession of the day...

2009-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

When surfing around the "mall store" websites today, I happened along something so lovely and so inexpensive and that looked so comfy that I had to share it with you, dear readers. By now, you will have realized that I adore unique, versatile, feminine pieces. It's only a bonus if they don't cause pain :) THIS dress, however, is all of the above. The Express Flutter-Sleeve Dress is girly,

Basically, this is just PRETTY...

2009-02-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

1/50 - Oh won't you please forgive me... - by Alex Poesy on Polyvore.comI wanted to post this because it's just a beautiful ensemble I found on Polyvore. Don't you just love the combination she has put together? Instead of waxing witty on this, let us just admire and be inspired...BTW - Click on the pic to find out where to buy the pieces (should you want to know).

Flowers on her toes...

2009-02-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

So, I have a friend we call MaliBu, mostly because it suits her. She is funny, bubbly, laid-back, girly and the queen of all things pop culture. She also has this amazing set of gams that lend themselves well to shoes - particularly high, colorful, platform ones. That's why when I saw that flower-printed, platform, high-heeled shoes are everywhere for spring and summer, I pictured her doing

Rock the Kazbar...

2009-02-05T06:00:00.001-08:00

To help continue my obsession with one-shoulder, off-shoulder, strapless things, please take a moment to look at this GORGeous top by French Connection. The Kazbar Silk Satin One Shoulder Top can be all things...dressy, casual, worn with jeans, skirt, heels, flats, myriad of possibilities! Plus, the super-luxe fabric, inset waist and unusual print are just so glam. Am I right or am I right?

Let's talk face...

2009-02-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

Meaning MAKEUP, that is. What good are clothes and hair if your face is a mess? I mean, there's a reason why the term "Butterface" was invented, right? And I will NOT allow that name to be used to describe you if I can help it, dearest readers...First, the keys are knowing your own skin (dry, oily, combination?), how much time you have to get ready in the A.M. and (very important) your budget

The perfect fancy clutch...

2009-02-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

While it may not be perfect for EVERY one of your outfits, the Alexis Clutch by AO3 Designs is bound to be so for most of them. I'm picturing it with a little black dress or with a tank top, dark jeans and heels... Don't you just love how accessories are multi-purpose?In a black and white vine trellis pattern and your choice of either apple green, light blue or hot pink liner and ribbon, it

Seize the day (and a cute necklace)!

2009-02-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's hard to find the right gift for a girlfriend. Or a mom. Or a sister. Or any woman that might be in your life. Finally, a store that sells cute and quirky quality jewelry that is both simple and inspirational.Dogeared.com is a wonderful online shop that has a myriad of great, little accessories that say just the right thing. The Carpe Diem necklace pictured above has tiny heart

Dress obsession of the day...

2009-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, dear readers, is it possible to live without a nude jersey dress like this for spring and summer? At $645, the Tomas Maier Cross Strap Dress version is a little out of us workin' gals' reach, but it shall serve as inspiration for all of us, ok? Things to love (and to look for when you buy yours): the so gorgeous blush/nude color, the drapey fabric and the feminine details that will look

Lofts, teachers and a fab dress...

2009-01-31T10:18:00.001-08:00