Let Them Eat (Cup)Cake

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2012-03-17T10:35:00.000-05:00

Hope your day is filled with lots of green beer and gold glitter. Cheers!

Photo via: inslee.net

Five songs you're just silly if you don't like.

2012-03-16T09:20:00.000-05:00

It's not new, it just never gets old.

Mostly for the music video. Because it's a guaranteed trip-out.

Credit goes to the boyfran for showing me this mashup group.

DIY: Collar Necklace

2012-03-15T09:39:00.000-05:00

I've recently hopped on the collar-necklace train. They can be big and statement-making with beads and studs or more simple and understated like this DIY from Harper's Bazaar. Either way they look great when paired with a simple-silhouetted top.

Peep the DIY over on harpersbazaar.com

Get in my closet/Get in my house

2012-03-14T08:20:00.000-05:00

scalloped bikini//sequin tile staircase

I know ONE too many people who need to read this right now.

2012-03-13T09:34:00.000-05:00

I'm not naming any names but, you. And you. And you.

"You can hold tight to facts or truths that you know, despite the buzzing “what-ifs” that fly around you. In a way, you can walk forward stronger and more assured because you are putting faith in yourself being okay with any outcome. You can’t control people or what they do, and you can’t make everything happen perfectly in life. You can however, assure that you feel okay and peaceful throughout all of it.

Take comfort in the knowledge that you will be okay. No matter what. You are strong, you will take care of yourself and heal, and you will grow stronger every day." — Sarah May Bates

Photo: Nurzada Saltanova

These aren't just any balloons.

2012-03-12T09:34:00.002-05:00

These are GERONIMO balloons. No really, that's what they're called. These perfectly round, whimsical things have been on my radar for awhile now but I feel like it's time that I share them with you because we're friends and that's what we do here. I think they'd make the most perfect wedding decoration, don't you? Or just to like, have chill in your room and make you happy.

A little video about the company and the woman behind it all:

Edit: Ohmygosh. I found this equally amazing balloon company (though I think they're located in the UK) called BonBon Balloons. This is the future of BEAUTIFUL BALLOONISM, PEOPLE.

Survival Secret

2012-03-11T12:56:00.000-05:00

Spring Decorating

2012-03-10T13:25:00.000-06:00

Long have I avoided putting anything in jars as a form of decorating since it has recently become somewhat of a cliche (THE HIPSTERS ALL OVERDID THE MASON JAR ISH AND EVERYONE KNOWS IT K FINE I HAVE ONE I PUT MAKEUP BRUSHES IN WHY AM I YELLING?) but I may have to cave when decorating this spring. This simple jar filled with white flowers is just too fresh-looking to pass up.

Photo via: This is Glamorous Tumblr

A Buffet Post, If You Will

2012-03-09T14:16:00.000-06:00

Dating — 50 dating rules for smart girls who don't need dating rules.

Technology — 25 gadgets for globetrotters.

Jewelry — This designer turns the map of your neighborhood into a necklace.

Art — 12 months of neon love.

Interior Design — The sweet pad of Gap Director of Concept, Jane Herman.

Baking — Cheesecake in a jar. Yep, I said that.

Video — "Happiness Happens: Let It, Don't 'Earn' It"

Pictures — 50 really cool random images for your inspiration.

Song — Na Palm vs. Pretty Lights "Understand Me Now (Remix)"

Photo via: Glitter Guide

OHP. The next style book I'mma gonna need.

2012-03-08T10:13:00.000-06:00

I'm beginning to loathe the term "Parisian-chic" (start reading fashion magazines at a young age and it'll happen) but OH do those French ladies sure know how to dress....side note, I feel like this is a pretty consistent topic on my blog. Oh well. Deal. My blog not yours.

Inès de la Fressange, a premiere model for Chanel in the 80's, (UMM BEST TIME EVER) has recently written a style guide for all us common folk who just don't have that boatneck-striped T/black skinnies/flats-combo down to a natural science yet. According to Fressange, only eight closet items are necessary to transform you from Average American dresser to French and Fresh. That alliteration was my own. Thank you.

PS I would officially like to change my name to Liz de la Welle.

Don't you love the layout?! I like how everything seems handwritten and scrapbooky.

I can't get over how stinkin cute the pages are.

Go forth. Be fashionably French. And buy the book here.

Your Teenage Self vs Your 20-Something Self

2012-03-07T09:31:00.000-06:00

Cuz' Thought Catalog never gets old.

"Money

Teenage self: I’m rich! My parents just gave me twenty bucks to go out with my friends. That means I can afford a movie, a soft drink, and some candy! Must spend immediately. Burning a hole in my pocket. I love money!

20-something self: I hate money. Why does it cost so much money to simply exist? Why I can’t afford an iced mocha and some Sour Patch Kids? I really don’t ask for much. No one told me life was going to be this expensive. No one told me that if I get sick, I must pay insurance companies thousands of dollars. What’s more expensive? Cancer or a Birkin? WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Self-esteem

Teenage self: I love to hate myself. I wish I was born with a better body. If I had a better clavicle bone, maybe the opposite sex would notice me!

20-something self: I’m a pretty dope person. Why doesn’t anyone realize that?

Drinking

Teenage self: I get crazy wasted. Can I have another wine cooler?

20-something self: I pretend to get hungover after drinking one beer. I’m just so…old.

Love

Teenage self: I’ve been in love once. I don’t think they knew I existed though.

20-something self: Love’s a necessary bitch.

Parents

Teenage self: Hate.

20-something self: Love.

College

Teenage self: Can’t wait to go. It’ll change my life!

20-something self: So. Much. Money.

Excuse to stay in

Teenage self: I have to finish my reading journal for King Lear.

20-something self: I’d rather wash my hair and watch Top Chef.

Style manta

Teenage self: This bracelet would look good with this necklace. And this necklace would look good with this headband. And this headband would look good with some wacky earrings!

20-something self: Messy meets sophistication meets go fuck yourself. Looking 12 and 80 years old all at the same time.

Fights with friends

Teenage self: I hate you today because I’m bored!

20-something self: I’m beginning to realize that I don’t like who you are as a person."

Inside Lauren Conrad's Closet

2012-03-06T10:11:00.000-06:00

Why do I do this to myself? I enjoy looking into the closets that for my life can be marked as "forever unattainable". We'll call it sartorial masochism.

Hate or love LC, you can't deny the woman's got one helluva closet. The Coveteur peeped her digs and they are....beautiful.

(PICTURE MY HEART RATE.) I love maxi dresses and think they are such versatile and romantic pieces. I wore this nude, tiered chiffon dress (from my first collection for paper crown) with a sash to a ball held at the National History Museum. The silk dress on the right I wore for a photoshoot at my home in Laguna. In the center is a vintage nightgown – I love the little details and bias cut of this particular piece.

"This photo is lovely, very much represents paper crown."

"These [Chanel] shoes were my favorite this winter. I wore them all the time with tights or black skinnies."

"I love vintage jewelery, not only to wear but also to hang around the space Iʼm in. I usually have luck at flea markets or The Way We Wore. The necklace in the center is one of my favorites and often makes appearances in paper crown lookbooks. It's an old hair barrette turned into a necklace. When I am designing for LC Lauren Conrad jewelry, most of the collection is inspired by vintage pieces."

"Clearly, I have a fascination with Chanel. I began collecting old perfume bottles a few years back because I thought they were so pretty. The crown is (embarrassingly) from when I was on the homecoming court in high school."

"Phillip Lim is my favorite designer of all time. I like the shoulder detailing on this top because it reminded me of a sea anemone."

You can drool more over here.

"Sometimes all you can do it not think..."

2012-03-05T11:05:00.000-06:00

"Sometimes all you can do is not think. Not wonder. Not obsess. Not imagine. Just breathe. Breathe in, breathe out. Everything works out in the end, and the more time you spend worrying about it, the longer it takes for things to end perfectly. Just the way they should."

Photo by: Charlie Engman

DIY Antipasto Plate

2012-03-04T11:08:00.000-06:00

A party for your tastebuds; with all the right guests.

From: The Ink Remains

Casual weekend date.

2012-03-03T12:55:00.000-06:00

Dress//Shoe//Cuff//Purse//Nailpolish

I want a polka dot door

2012-03-02T09:56:00.000-06:00

Mostly because it looks just like my cell phone cover. I'm down with polka dots. But chya'll knew that.

Image via: Oh Joy!

Let's talk about the second color you need in your life.

2012-03-01T10:05:00.000-06:00

M I N T

So it's no "color of the year" like the hue we talked about last week, but mint is surely becoming my favorite color for spring and the shade I am most excited about incorporating into my wardrobe. Diane Von Furstenberg's spring runway show had it paired with tan and gray—but it works so well with pretty much all neutrals.

Get some.

Layering T//Shirt//Dress//Another dress//Belt//Jeans//Bikini

*Photos: Coco & Kelley via Vanessa Jackman, Gary Pepper Vintage, Tululu Vintage

Three songs for your Thursday

2012-02-29T08:40:00.001-06:00

AND BY THURSDAY I MEAN WEDNESDAY. Little INSIGHT to what kind of week it is for me.

10 absolutely great things to work on.

2012-02-27T10:08:00.000-06:00

Good morning. Happy Monday. Wanna work on somethings with me this week? Cool.

Count your blessings.
Never stop trying to improve.
Be your own superhero.
Aim higher.
Contribute.
Sleep in when you can.
Be compassionate.
Listen.
Give yourself time off.
Be enthusiastic.

Photo via: Crush Cul de Sac

Little Details

2012-02-26T13:18:00.000-06:00

Like the scalloped edge of a blouse sleeve. Killin it again, J.Crew.

File this in the 'Creative Dates' folder

2012-02-25T08:47:00.000-06:00

I tend to think simple dates are often the most fun (but if you wanna fly me off to Italy, Mike, that's cool too). How cute is this dock picnic? All you'd need is a blanket, a bottle of wine, and some easy munchies...

...and then push him in at the end. Just kidding. No I'm not.

For Your Inner-Perfectionist:

2012-02-24T11:09:00.001-06:00

This was an important one for me this week. I'm by no means a perfectionist, but sometimes I let things get to me that shouldn't. Every once and awhile it's best to step back, take a deep breath, and remember you're doing your best. My roommate has a quote by her door that I love: "Life became immeasurably better when I stopped taking it so seriously."....And true 'DAT.

Image via: Happily Ever After Now

Let's talk about the color you need in your life.

2012-02-23T10:22:00.000-06:00

Pantone declared Tangerine the color of the year for 2012 because there are people in this world who have the authority to declare that sort of thing. On a barely-related tangent, I want to be the person who does this for food. And the winner would be nutella. Every year.

Anyway. Let's put some tangerine in your life.

Bag//Coat//Dress//Top//Chinos

Please note how good this color looks with animal print. And by animal print I mean leopard. Please don't print this with zebra or I will find you.

Image via: J.Crew

Become Parisian-Chic With One Dress

2012-02-22T08:56:00.000-06:00

How cute is stylish Parisian Caroline de Maigret? She owns a record label, it's fine.

While you can't own your own record label (or maybe you can, I'm not trying to know your life), you can own her dress and maybe, just maybe, be as cute as her.

A Buffet Post, If You Will

2012-02-21T10:01:00.001-06:00

With a little something for everyone...

Cool Find — Diamond lights. No, look.

I Want — This "Love You" print.

Culture Yourself — The shooting of the TIME 100 honorees.

Wedding — A hanging floral centerpiece.

Guy Fashion — How to layer your clothes in the winter.

Song — Bei Major "Bout that Life".

Beauty — Art deco inspired nails (and how to do them!)

Animal Cuteness — Toronto's Polar Bear Club ... and it's newborn.

Baking Time — Dulce de Leche Banana Bars

Turning Your Bag Into a Bracelet

2012-02-20T10:58:00.000-06:00

J.Crew. The gift that keeps on giving. Turn the handle into the newest edition of your "wrist party" with this easy DIY.

My Three Favorite Songs Today

2012-02-18T11:30:00.000-06:00

If I Could Buy Another Prom Dress

2012-02-17T08:57:00.000-06:00

Hear me out. I'm not kidding, sometimes I wish I could re-go back to prom. BUT. Only because I would pick out a super a-maze-a-balls dress that I could wear over and over and over. It's ridiculous how much girls spend on overly-impractical dresses when you can buy one for the same price that's actually WEARABLE for years to come.

Obviously my favorites still all have sequins or are rich and red. C'mon people, I am who I am.

I Think I Found Thee Best iPhone Case Website Ever.

2012-02-16T10:16:00.000-06:00

I have a new favorite iPhone case store. Maybe a TISH spendy at $35 a pop but you GUYS. There are literally 100's of GIMME-THAT-ONE-NOW's. If you're in the market for a new cover, society6 is your spot. Yuh'welcome. (Gentleman this site is awesome for you too.)

Midnight Snack Box

2012-02-15T09:29:00.000-06:00

I'll be honest, I'm a nurturer by nature. (Hahahah, get it? I didn't even try to set that up. Roll with my unintentional puns.) I get it from my mother. She's one of the most caring and thoughtful people I know. We both like doing fun little things like this for the people we care about.

Check it out.

How welcoming of a treat would this be for guests crashing at your house? They don't have to worry about being hungry post-bed time, they can dig into their midnight snack box for a treat. What a creative way to make people feel right at home.

All photos via: You Are My Fave

Love.

2012-02-14T10:45:00.001-06:00

Love: all, often, life, yourself.

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you.

Especially that one cool guy I kind of sort of LIKE like ;)

Branding 10,000 Lakes

2012-02-13T09:28:00.000-06:00

Wow. This is impressive. Graphic designer Nicole Meyer has quite the project on her hands. She plans on making one logo per day for every single lake in Minnesota. If my math is correct, this will take her approximately 27 years. How COOL is that?? Am I biased because I'm Minnesotan? You can check out her project here.

5 Things I Found Today (The February 12th Edition)

2012-02-12T09:57:00.000-06:00

How to give a manicure staying power.

Google flights search is a powerful, intuitive, lightning-fast tool for finding cheap tickets.

Download the "NevermindTheLowEndMagik" mixtape.

In The Door is the job search engine for the Facebook generation.

Every recipe on this food blog is five ingredients.

Beating The Winter Blues...

2012-02-11T10:02:00.000-06:00

I once read in a magazine (I read a lot okay and I can't remember what magazine or what issue it was so sorry I can't be all AP citation right now) that happiness effects are longer-lasting when you spend money on something beauty-related (like new makeup, or a new hair-do) rather than something material-related (like a new pair of jeans). I do not know how one measures this sort of thing, but it makes sense doesn't it? Buying clothes is more of a one-time instant gratification while new makeup, a bright red manicure, or in this case, a great blowout gives you a little bit more swagger in your step. Treating yourself to something like this is a great way to beat winter blues, which, I don't know about you guys, but that crap hits me hard sometimes.

So when I saw Joanna from A Cup of Jo post this article, I did an "Ugh!" Yes this sounds exactly like an "Ugh!" of disgust, but it's more "Ugh! Right on, sista!" JoAnna took herself on a solo date (also a big advocate of these) to Drybar, a salon that exclusively does blow-outs; aka the most genius idea ever to come into existence the end.

It's so great to get out and do something just for you every once and awhile. Plus, how hot does she look?

Before...

They bring you a fresh cup of coffee while they do your hair. ("Is this real life?!?" -- Me, if I ever go there.)

Ugh! .....There I go again.

Other ways to treat yourself:

Go to a yoga class
Buy yourself a chocolate milkshake. (The good kind. I don't care if you have to go to a restaurant and order it to go.) Then come home and turn on trashy TV.
Buy yourself a new perfume. And actually take time picking one out that you really, really like.
Buy a positive print to hang on your wall. Like this one.
Make this. Cry over how good it tastes. Have it for breakfast. 'Cause you can.

How To: Layer Jewelry

2012-02-10T09:09:00.000-06:00

A few pieces to get you started...

1 /2/3/4/5/6/7/8

"Live Your Way Into The Answer."

2012-02-09T07:48:00.000-06:00

“I beg you to have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer.” — Rainer Maria Rilke

Photo via: Sullen & Sullied

Valentine's Day Dresses for Under $100

2012-02-08T11:14:00.004-06:00

"Oh, Liz, really cool, assuming I have a boyfriend and/or date for Valentine's Day."

Okay, BOO YOU. WAHH WAHHH WAHHH. If you haven't yet learned that Valentine's Day does NOT need to be a day of wallowing in self-pity then I'm here to whip you into shape before I take you on a visual shopping spree. These dresses can be worn yes, on a date with a boy. OR on a date with your best girlfriends out for drinks. OR, cripes, I HOPE you wear something this sexy to stay at home and cook yourself dinner and then eat a whole bag of Dove chocolates by yourself. Because if there's one thing you need to take away from this blog post it's that there's no shame in that. My homegirl Carrie Bradshaw said it best:

"The most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself."

Are you all better yet? K good, you had me worried for a sec. If this is your first time on one of my "Hi look at all the pretty things I picked out for you" blog posts, click pictures for links to these fabfabfab frocks. And yes, all dresses are under $100 because I'm in college. Get on my level.

I kind of want this so bad that I didn't want to share it with you. Look at the CUFFS. But we're better friends than that.

You don't even need jewelry!

The color says 'neon red', and I like that. I like that a lot.

I love the subtle scandy-ness.

I love this dress so much I can't even.

Pretty backs are my thing.

Chevron is like, totes my favorite pattern.

Pair with a leather jacket. Trust me.

Because I know this dress has epic twirl potential. *Edit*: pair with a metallic belt like they did. This dress will look gorgeous with bronze, silver, or gold. Bonus points if it's glitter-encrusted. J.Crew usually has you covered for one of those babies.

Frick, Urban Outfitters I just want everything you produce.

Like wearing a strapless dress...without wearing a strapless dress.

Somebody buy this. Do it for ME.

My two favorite songs today...

2012-02-07T10:11:00.000-06:00

Monday Morning House Envy

2012-02-06T09:32:00.000-06:00

I would love to post up in this modern Swedish townhouse, wouldn't you? So crisp!

Images via: Elding Oscarson

Splitscreen: A Love Story

2012-02-04T10:29:00.000-06:00

This video made its rounds on the internet last summer, but you should watch it if you haven't. Or watch it again, like me. This video by JW Griffiths was the winner of the Nokia Shorts Competition 2011 and was shot entirely on an N8 mobile phone. Prepare to have your heart strings tugged.

Live The Language: Vancouver and Sydney

2012-02-03T13:07:00.000-06:00

You guuuuuyyyyzzzz, these videos are like my favorite things everrrrrrrr (super annoying whiney girly voice).

Seriously though, no videos have ever made me want to travel this badly.

Ten Little Pieces of Advice

2012-02-02T10:17:00.000-06:00

Tell people how much you like them.

Give unexpected gifts.

Talk to strangers.

Do favors.

Let go.

Be generous.

Eat whatever you want.

Make your own rules.

Write your own guidebook.

Don’t think about other people’s definitions of success, beauty, or happiness.

Two Tunes

2012-02-01T09:15:00.000-06:00

The Spring Line I'm Craving Mid-Winter

2012-01-31T09:40:00.000-06:00

I'm seriously practicing trying to be more "in the now", but as a Minnesotan it gets FREAKING HARD to do so for six gloomy months straight. So, confession: I may or may not be already dreaming of spring shopping, ESPECIALLY Madewell's bright and cheery designs. I want a polka-dot skirt and bright yellow flats and an outfit that's bright on top and bottom (eyein' the CRAP out of that cherry red and fuchsia combo.) How many days until spring break again?

P.S., did you know I'm on Pinterest? Cuzzzzz I am. And here's my page.

Knowledge Worth Knowing

2012-01-30T11:09:00.000-06:00

The perfect breakfast potatoes.

Perfect.

2012-01-29T10:34:00.001-06:00

I can't be the only one who needs this print as motivation...

So how convenient that you can buy the print over at society6 for $18-$40.

Tiffany + The Sartorialist + Garance Doré = THEE. BEST. CAMPAIGN. EVER.

2012-01-28T10:34:00.000-06:00

This is. the most heart-warming, brilliant, makes-my-heart-skip-a-thousand-beats-per-minute, campaign. EVER. EVER EVER. Tiffany (everyone's favorite robin's egg blue jeweler) teamed up with street style photographer Scott Schuman—of The Sartorialist fame—and his equally talented blogger girlfriend, Garance Doré, to create What Makes Love True, the most (impressively uncheesy) collaboration to celebrate all that is love.

Tiffany represents everything that is tangible about love; engagement rings, jewelry, things you buy to "show someone you love them." Revealing a deeper side of the brand, they teamed up with Scott, Garance and their customers to launch "a unique guide to matters of the heart." Users can upload photos (the website even has a special filter app for the photos making them romantically hazy like the ones below), videos, stories, and songs. Creativity at its finest.

Who knew anything as simple as initialed mugs could be so adorable?

Karlie Kloss for Free People is Exponentially Amazing

2012-01-27T11:59:00.000-06:00

At nineteen years old, Karlie Kloss is pretty much the model of the moment (she just snagged Oscar de la Renta's Spring/Summer 2012 campaign, you can see her lookin' gorg in that here.) This LA-girl editorial is for Free People's spring catalog. I give every single one of these outfits a standing ovation.

I normally don't pay too much attention to models but this girl just seems so cool, I just wanna hang with her, ya know? Apparently Ms. Kloss also just started her own tumblr, where she gives an inside look to her modeling world.

P.S. I don't know why the photos are all mismatched sizes and fuzzy, don't yell at me.

Photos: Elle.com via Free People

5 Perfect Winter Outfits

2012-01-26T07:42:00.000-06:00

Cozy. Comfy. STYLISH.

Presented by: Style Me Grasie

My Favorite Kind of Wedding Pictures ...

2012-01-25T09:18:00.000-06:00

... are the moments no one really sees.

Images: Apartment 34 via erin hearts court

Do You Have a Pair of These? Because You Should.

2012-01-24T10:26:00.000-06:00

These Jordi Ballet Flats look heckishly more expensive than $60. I'm demanding that you buy and add them to your wardrobe. K I'm not but, it would be foolish not to do so. The leopard looks non-cheapy (which is SOOO HARD TO FIND) and the black patent toe is the perfect accent. I'm picturing them paired with other classics like black matchstick ankle-skimming jeans and a navy-and-white-striped nautical shirt. Go on, you know you wanna.

5 Things I Found Today (The January 23rd Edition)

2012-01-23T09:11:00.001-06:00

Craft and DIY PORN. I'm sorry, there's just no other way to describe it.

This is the world's biggest treehouse. And it's in America. And I'm going.

Pictogram movie posters. Can you guess what films they are without looking?

"Skillshare's mission is to flip the notion of traditional education on its head and democratize learning. They believe that anyone can be a teacher, and everyone has valuable knowledge and skills to share." (Swissmiss)

The 10 funniest commercials of all time.

10 Commandments For a Good Life

2012-01-22T09:47:00.001-06:00

(From Marc & Angel Hack Life)

I. I am not perfect and I will not try to be.

Think of how many things don’t get done in this world simply because people are waiting for the perfect time, place and circumstance. The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists. It rewards people who get things done. And the only way to get things done is to be imperfect 99% of the time.

ll. I cannot, and will not try, to please everyone.

No matter what you do or how you do it, there will always be people that disagree with what you’re doing. That’s life. So don’t try please everyone. Simply do what you know is right. And remember, it doesn’t matter how many people don’t get it, it matters how many people do.

III. I will take part in something I believe in.

IV. I will prioritize my obligations and do important things first.

It’s the only way to turn a dream into a reality.

V. I will choose my friends wisely.

Your friends are family you choose. So make sure you choose friends who are worthy of your time and attention. Surround yourself with people who reflect the person you want to be. Choose friends who you are proud to know, people you admire, who love and respect you – people who make your day a little brighter simply by being in it.

VI. I will help others when I am able.

In life, you get what you put in. When you make a positive impact in someone else’s life, you also make a positive impact in your own life. The more you help others, the more they will want to help you.

VII. I will focus on the positive.

Positive thinking is at the forefront of every great success story. The mind must believe it can do something before it is capable of actually doing it. The way to overcome negative thoughts and destructive emotions is to develop opposing, positive emotions that are stronger and more powerful. Regardless of how a situation seems, focus on the next positive step forward.

VIII. I can only be me.

Judy Garland once said, “Always be a first rate version of yourself instead of a second rate version of somebody else.” Live by this statement.

There is no such thing as living in someone else’s shoes. The only shoes you can occupy are your own. If you aren’t being yourself, you aren’t truly living – you’re merely existing. And ask yourself this: If you don’t like who you really are, why should I like you?

Trying to be somebody you’re not is not sexy. Be you. That’s when you’re beautiful.

IX. I will be here now.

Life is happening right now. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, practice being and living in the present moment. Remember, right now is the only moment guaranteed to you. Right now is life. Don’t miss it.

X. Life never gets any better, only my perception of it does.

The world around you changes when you change. If you awake every morning with the thought that something wonderful will happen in your life today, and you pay close attention, you’ll often find that you’re right. The opposite is also true. The choice is yours to make.

Photo via: Alice & Olivia

It's Always The Simple Things

2012-01-21T12:44:00.000-06:00

“It is always the simple things that change our lives. And these things never happen when you are looking for them to happen. Life will reveal answers at the pace life wishes to do so. You feel like running, life is on a stroll.”

-donald miller

Oh 'fer YUM.

2012-01-20T09:37:00.000-06:00

Hommade Hostess Cupcakes. A WDITOT moment. This stands for "Why Didn't I Think Of That". I abbreviated it for my own purposes because it happens, frequently. Somebody patent my acronym.

Tell me if I'm wrong. Everybody loves Hostess, and Twinkies, and DumDum Ho-Hos ..... or .... whatever the other ones are called .... but noooooobody wants to admit it because they are made out of nothing even close to real food and it's cool to be like, "I like things that are five ingredients or less" and I AM OUTING MYSELF. I LOVE ARTIFICIAL DESSERTS. Do you feel closer to me?

But these are different. They are homemade. And that makes me feel safe to know that they can be produced in your kitchen and you don't have to buy them from somewhere that also sells spark plugs and icees. No hate on icees though. Plus they are in the form of a cupcake. And we all know how I feel about that. Carrying on.

Recipe over at 52 kitchen adventures.

Where You Live, Influences How You Live

2012-01-19T10:15:00.000-06:00

Or so goes my own theory. I feel like my creativeness would be bursting at the seams living in a borderline-magical designer workspace like this one.

Images via: Design Love Fest

Flawlessly Fashionable at Any Age

2012-01-18T10:14:00.000-06:00

One can only hope this is what my future holds... one can only hope.

Coco is Boss

2012-01-17T10:14:00.000-06:00

"I don't care what you think about me. I don't think about you at all." — Coco Chanel

Music Monday

2012-01-16T13:34:00.000-06:00

For all the frat boy's out there ...

Religious Views Aside, This is Pretty Clever

2012-01-15T09:30:00.000-06:00

50 Things to Give Up Today

2012-01-14T10:18:00.000-06:00

Give up trying to be perfect. – The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists, it rewards people who get things done.
Give up comparing yourself to others. – The only person you are competing against is yourself.
Give up dwelling on the past or worrying too much about the future. – Right now is the only moment guaranteed to you. Right now is life. Don’t miss it.
Give up complaining. – Do something about it.
Give up holding grudges. – Grudges are a waste of perfect happiness.
Give up waiting. – What we don’t start today won’t be finished by tomorrow. Knowledge and intelligence are both useless without action.
Give up lying. – In the long-run the truth always reveals itself. Either you own up to your actions or your actions will ultimately own you.
Give up trying to avoid mistakes. – The only mistake that can truly hurt you is choosing to do nothing simply because you’re too scared to make a mistake.
Give up saying, “I can’t.” – As Henry Ford put it, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you are right.”
Give up trying to be everything to everyone. – Making one person smile can change the world. Maybe not the whole world, but their world. Start small. Start now.
Give up thinking you’re not ready. – Nobody ever feels 100% ready when an opportunity arises. Because most great opportunities in life force us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means we won’t feel totally comfortable at first.
Give up setting small goals for yourself. – Many people set small goals because they’re afraid to fail. Ironically, setting these small goals is what makes them fail.
Give up trying to do everything by yourself. – You are the sum of the people you spend the most time with. If you work together, you will be far more capable and powerful than you ever could have been alone.
Give up buying things you don’t need. – Manage your money wisely so your money does not manage you. Do not spend to impress others. Do not live life trying to fool yourself into thinking wealth is measured in material objects.
Give up blaming others for your troubles. – The extent to which you can live your dream life depends on the extent to which you take responsibility for your life. When you blame others for what you’re going through, you deny responsibility – you give others power over that part of your life.
Give up making mountains out of molehills. – One way to check if something is worth mulling over is to ask yourself this question: “Will this matter in one year’s time? Three years? Five years? If not, then it’s not worth worrying about.
Give up trying to live up to the expectations of others. – Work on it for real and exceed your own expectations. Everything else will fall into place.
Give up the ‘easy street’ mentality. – There is too much emphasis on finding a ‘quick fix’ in today’s society. For example taking diet pills to lose weight instead of exercising and eating well. No amount of magic fairy dust replaces diligent, focused, hard work.
Give up making promises you can’t keep. – Don’t over-promise. Over-deliver on everything you do.
Give up letting your thoughts and feelings bottle up inside. – People are not mind readers. They will never know how you feel unless you tell them.
Give up beating around the bush. – Say what you mean and mean what you say. Communicate effectively.
Give up avoiding change. – However good or bad a situation is now, it will change. That’s the one thing you can count on. So embrace change and realize that change happens for a reason. It won’t always be easy or obvious at first, but in the end it will be worth it.
Give up your sense of entitlement. – Nobody is entitled to anything in this world. We are all equal. We breathe the same air. We get what we give. We get what we earn.
Give up waiting until the last minute. – Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.
Give up being dramatic. – Stay out of other people’s drama and don’t needlessly create your own.

Read 26-50 here.

"I'm Not the Silly Romantic You Think..."

2012-01-13T09:13:00.000-06:00

"I'm not the silly romantic you think. I don't want the heavens or the shooting stars. I don't want gemstones or gold. I have those things already. I want...a steady hand. A kind soul. I want to fall asleep, and wake, knowing my heart is safe. I want to love, and be loved." — Shana Abe

Photos by: Shannen Norman

5 Things I Found Today (The January 12th Edition)

2012-01-12T08:21:00.000-06:00

This is pretty cool (for the Disney princess obsessed). Illustrator Claire Hummel drew all of the lovely Disney ladies in historically accurate costumes. Some Disney did pretty well, others are completely different!

Ahem, guys: 25 pieces of sartorial knowledge so you don't look dumb. Hopefully we all have #21 down by now.

The best time to buy....everything. Click the infographic once to magnify.

Cutest engagement proposal ever. While this much effort is probably not expected by a lot of girls, big ups to you, dude.

Desk-it is a great organizer to always have by your computer if you're like me and always have random ideas coming to you.

Photo via: Glitter Guide

Weddin' Hair

2012-01-11T09:02:00.000-06:00

Big fan of the loose, undone yet absolutely beautiful styles.

Side braid with a perfectly placed sequin headband? Absolutely.

A black headband intertwined with a braid is so simple yet such a statement making 'do.

Photos via: M Loves M, A Beautiful Mess, The Beauty Department

Try NOT to Fall in Love With This Guy

2012-01-10T09:07:00.000-06:00

Hi, this is my ~~future husband~~ newfound music love, Steve Ertl. He does some dang good acoustic covers, and oh, I guess I guess he's PERRRTYYY CUUUUTE.

I don't know about that newsboy cap there though, pal. Check out his youtube page here.

Chocolate-Stuffed Raspberries

2012-01-09T09:32:00.000-06:00

It's as easy as it looks, just stuff with whatever kind of chocolate chip you're partial to.

Via: Saucy Sprinkles

Red Lips Tutorial

2012-01-08T07:20:00.000-06:00

If there's anyone I trust giving me a red lips tutorial, it's The Girls With Glasses. I think they came out of the womb with red lipstick on.

The Outfit That Changed My Opinion on Turtlenecks

2012-01-07T12:13:00.000-06:00

Why didn't I ever think of an outfit so cute and clever? Probably because the turtleneck has a bad rep goin' for itself ever since we came into the 21st century. I, and I'm sure I'm not alone, have this problem where I think a certain clothing piece is mom-ish, so I feel like it can only be styled mom-ish (no hard feelings to all the mamas out there, LUH you.)

When paired with a navajo-inspired cardigan, gold-sequined skirt, neutral black tights and booties, things turn out quite nicely for the turtleneck. It's like the clothing-version of the movie plot where the pretty, popular girls give the ugly duckling a makeover and now she's all hip.

...or something.

Try for yourself:

gray turtlneck//sequin skirt//geo-print cardigan//gray booties

Photo via: M Loves M

In Order to Lead a Fascinating Life...

2012-01-06T09:58:00.000-06:00

Art/Music/Intrigue/Romance

Photo via: Kate Spade

Winter Shoe-Care Tips From Tory Burch

2012-01-05T09:40:00.000-06:00

7 Rules For Making More Happiness

2012-01-04T09:10:00.001-06:00

And if you don't want that then, well, you are either the happiest person alive, or should be voted off the planet. But even if you are one of those two things, you should still watch, because Ted videos rock.

DIY: Paper Flower Key Holder

2012-01-03T09:58:00.000-06:00

Never lose your keys again. And be cute about it. Directions here.

The History of "Dying"

2012-01-02T10:22:00.000-06:00

Did you know?

Photo via: Fallonelizabeth

Goal For 2012:

2012-01-01T12:17:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T10:57:00.001-06:00

Hope you have a fun night planned with lots of champagne, confetti, and pretty dresses :)

A quote for the new year:

“If you’re feeling frightened about what comes next, don’t be. Embrace the uncertainty. Allow it to lead you places. Be brave as it challenges you to exercise both your heart and your mind as you create your own path towards happiness, don’t waste time with regret. Spin wildly into your next action. Enjoy the present, each moment, as it comes; because you’ll never get another one quite like it. And if you should ever look up and find yourself lost, simply take a breath and start over. Retrace your steps and go back to the purest place in your heart… where your hope lives. You’ll find your way again.”

Photos via: Glitter Guide

Two Tunes For Your Day

2011-12-30T09:56:00.000-06:00

Six Reasons I Love Being a Girl

2011-12-29T11:05:00.000-06:00

You sense the self-explanatory vibe I'm throwing.

All images via: Sterling Style

Crewcuts is so Baller.

2011-12-28T08:56:00.001-06:00

Crewcuts is J.Crew's little-tyke line, if you're unfamiliar. If I'm being honest with ya'll ('cause that's what I do here, I unveil truths), I would shamelessly buy an XL in any of their clothing items...

...iiiinCLUding the boys stuff. (Hint to all the ladies: the boys section is actually a GREAT place to buy blazers, military-style jackets, flannel shirts, etc. They fit great and are always WAY cheaper.)

How do these kids look so "No I actually AM this awesome, thanks though,"? Example: last photo. Homegirl is WERKIN that sequin-cardigan-dress-striped-socks-moccasin combo. Good for her. I'm not even mad that if I stepped out in said ensemble my eye sight or drug use would be severely questioned. Possibly both.

2011-12-27T09:07:00.000-06:00

"Life is simple in the moonlight."

5 Things I Love Today -- The December 26th Edition

2011-12-26T12:24:00.001-06:00

How to be the new guy or gal at work. Everyone might wanna tab that one.

'Where to get it' is for anyone who has ever looked at a street style photograph and thought, "Where did they GET that?"

How to make the perfect Egg McMuffins.

How to stay in an airplane should a hole open up in a fuselage, get a job bartending with no experience, and catch a cheater in baseball. "Yeah thanks for nothing." - every girl who just read this.

For font nerds like myself: WhatFont launched this little gem that lets you find out what font a website is using when you hover over the text. '

photo via: glitter guide

Holiday Nails

2011-12-25T11:24:00.000-06:00

Dark green + gold = pretty. Perfect Christmas day nails. Have a great day everybody, enjoy your loved ones :)

From Cheetah is the New Black Instagram

Singleton Holiday Card

2011-12-24T11:14:00.000-06:00

Via: Whiskey Soaked

A Yummy Last Minute Gift Idea (It's DIY!)

2011-12-23T10:10:00.002-06:00

Popcorn and I have a long-term love affair. It surely ranks in my top three favorite snacks of all time, if people had official rankings for things like that. They usually just reside in the head, don't they?

If you know someone with the same affinity for this salty (or sweet, I don't discriminate) snack, why not gift them a flavored popcorn kit for Christmas? It's a win-win. Their taste buds party and you look all Martha Stewarty.

Head over to A Beautiful Mess for complete instructions.

For Me, There's Ryan Gosling, And Then There's . . .

2011-12-22T10:06:00.000-06:00

Joseph Gordon Levitt. He was cute but easily overlooked in 10 Things I Hate About You next to Heath Ledger, but then came 500 Days of Summer and Inception and Boom. Hi. I'm Joseph. I'm sexy.

Am I right? You agree? Cool, good talk.

P.S. Did you know he sings? Here he is doing a cover of "Remix to Ignition". Apparently God saw fit to bless him with every talent in the books, which is fine with me.

Photos: Katie Armour via Esquire

Two Tunes

2011-12-21T11:24:00.000-06:00

How to Restore Your Faith in Humanity

2011-12-20T10:51:00.001-06:00

"Take a stroll around a park on the weekend. You’ll see families picnicking, children playing, dogs barking, squirrels nutting and smiles smiling. Parks are such a feel-good place. Go with friends, family or go alone. Either way, be observant and open to the happiness that’s around you.

Watch a really great movie. I mean, a really great movie. Like Saving Private Ryan or Schindler’s List or Young Frankenstein. Movies about the good in people during the worst of times. Or how even the scariest of monsters can have a heart. Also, come on, Gene Wilder? How can he not cheer you up?

Watch Military Homecomings. You can find them online or with Billy Ray Cyrus on TLC. I decided to look some up to make it easy and I’m just bawling like a baby now. 1, 2, 3 (seriously, you guys better love me, I’m dripping tears all over my computer), 4, 5. And now you all need to pitch in to help me buy a new computer and more tissues.

Listen to sad music. Yes, sad music. Research shows that when we listen to sad music, chemicals in the brain are released that are similar to the chemicals released when we cry. These chemicals act as a tranquilizer and calm us down. Enjoy The Smiths and The Perishers. You’ll mope and wallow in the melancholy of it all and then you’ll slowly start to feel better. Once you do, put on something upbeat and joyful like Duran Duran or Noah and the Whale or Kate Nash. And then just dance your ass off.

Go volunteer. A little more effort than the last few ideas? Perhaps. But if you’re not a typical volunteer type (which is okay, not everyone is!), start small. Clean out your closet and donate clothes to your local shelter or Goodwill. Empty your pantry of some canned goods and take them to a food bank. Or get down and dirty and join an organization to plant trees, clean up trash, read to underprivileged children, anything! There’s tons of ways you can help out, even if you just want to donate some money online.

Save virtual clippings. Create a bookmark folder called “Faith In Us” or “People Dun Good” or “I LOVE WORLD!” and fill it with news articles, blog entries and other items you find around the internet that restore your faith in humanity. Share stories of good deeds in the comments and then bookmark this page so that when you’re feeling down, you can come back and remember that people do good things all the time.

Never forget that those who cheat, steal, lie, hurt, destroy and kill are the minority. There are more people interesting in helping than there are interested in hurting. More people came out to clean up than came out to destroy. "

-- from Made of Air

DIY: Disco Vase

2011-12-19T11:00:00.001-06:00

Any DIY involving sequins I'm all, "Chyeup!"

I like the pink rose, it looks romantical and all, but I think I'd substitute it for a peony. Or two. 'Tis my favorite flower. *Cough* hint *Cough*

Find the pretty-dang-simple instructions over at Sania Pell's blog. Check out the rest of her site too. Woman knows what's up in the craft world.

Brownie Popsicles

2011-12-18T11:03:00.000-06:00

Oh. You heard me right.

Read me right. Whatever.

I'm rebellious in that popsicles don't have a season cut-off for me.

Look at this. It's like an, "Oh my God. No. You didn't. You didn't. But I'm so glad you did," kind of thing.

Recipe here.

Say Something Nice

2011-12-17T10:25:00.000-06:00

I love being reminded that there are some really great people out there. Plus this whole idea is fantastic.

Mapping Stereotypes

2011-12-16T11:50:00.000-06:00

From Alpha Designer's "Mapping Stereotypes Project". Hilarious.

Europe according to Americans:

Europe according to gay men:

The world according to America:

Europe according to Greeks:

This Apartment is 300 Square Feet & It is Amazing.

2011-12-15T11:30:00.000-06:00

The Evenings Are Black

2011-12-14T09:37:00.000-06:00

Photo via: Magnificent Ruin

Everything About This Lookbook is Perfect

2011-12-13T09:51:00.000-06:00

Free People's winter lookbook has allllll sorts of boho glam perfection goin' on. Want all. Everything. Right down to that perfectly tousled hair.

Little Things

2011-12-12T11:04:00.000-06:00

Sunday Soundtrack

2011-12-11T16:31:00.000-06:00