Café Con Leche

Animal Photographer Sharon Montrose

2009-11-18T14:13:00.008-05:00

Sharon Montrose has, in my opinion, one of the best jobs ever. She is an animal photographer! Her photographs are stunning and will make anyone oooh and ahh.

You can buy her prints at her Esty shop.

Found by way of A Cup of JO

Back Home In Nueva Jersey

2009-11-16T16:19:00.004-05:00

After a wonderful week in Montreal I am back home in beautiful New Jersey. Back to my writing routine listening to tunes.

Currently listening to:

The Weepies

Cafe Tacuba

Cafe Tacuba - Eres

Lady Gaga Bad Romance Video

2009-11-16T14:32:00.000-05:00

Amazing...

Italian Elegance

2009-11-06T16:31:00.003-05:00

The Sartorialist posted this picture of a woman he shot in Milan. Her look is simple, barely there makeup, besides a vivid red lip color. More proof that less can work well for you, as well as natural free flowing hair.

The Sartorialist puso una foto de una Italiana de Milán en su blog. El look de esta mina es muy sencilla y elegante. Casi no tiene maquillaje, menos los labios rojos y brillantes. Aquí tienes mas pruebas que algo sencillo puede tener una impresión fuerte.

Maya Vik Curls

2009-11-03T23:55:00.006-05:00

It is no secret that I love big hair and love to add volume on my own head. There is something entirely sexy about unruly hair. When I saw these pictures of Maya Vik on Elenita's blog (who in turn found the pictures on thestreethearts.com) I was stunned. Maya Vik is the bassist of the Norwegian group Montée and she has the most striking features and wonderfully chaotic hair. It is very rare to see platinum, blond hair with such tight curls.

No es un secreto que me encanta el pelo grande y voluminoso. Hay algo realmente sexy de pelo rebelde y despeinado. Cuando vi fotos de Maya Vik en el blog de Elenita (ella les descubrió por thestreethearts.com) me enamoré de su pelo y quería comprar una peluca rubia platino. Maya Vik es la bajista del grupo Noruego Montée. Es lindísima y tiene el pelo maravillosamente cáotico. Es raro ver alguien con pelo rubio platino y rizos tan apretados. Que envidia.

Fashion Icon Debbie Harry and Mod

2009-11-02T15:47:00.008-05:00

The band Blondie was at the height of their stardom in the 70s and early 80s, a time where fashion was reinventing itself between disco, the mod revival, platforms and micro minis. The mod look, favored by beatniks, on occasion Deborah Harry, as well as fashion icon Twiggy, was also reinventing itself. It seems like the early mod crowd's penchant for berets has been an inspiration for NYC hipsters the past 10 years. It's interesting to compare the two actually, since mod sprung from London's youth as a rebellion against stuffy British customs and a new leaning towards all things 'cool, smart, and neat.' Sounds sorta familiar doesn't it? Not to mention all the Vespas you see zipping around Manhattan as of late.

Personally I am a big fan of mod, the flat shoes are a blessing, the cute scarves and berets affect my soft spot for French stereotypes. I am, however, a much bigger fan of Debbie Harry's personal style. She has a face and the cheekbones not many people are lucky enough to be born with. Her style that is simple but not boring and just a bit funky. Her signature eye makeup and red lips are something I replicate only if there is a special occasion, but really I just want to wear it everyday. Maybe I will more often.

This year for Halloween I took advantage of my new platinum blond wig and I dressed up on two occasions as pop icon Debbie Harry and later more recent pop icon Lady Gaga. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays because it allows you to be creative, but most of all, live out your fantasies of being whatever. In my case, I guess I have some latent desire to be a pop star. Well I can at least aspire to dress like one.

Homemade Halloween Costume Ideas - Charlie Chaplin

2009-10-30T11:09:00.008-04:00

Charlie Chaplin was one of the most famous silent film actors of all time. Dressing up as this icon is a fun costume idea and chances are you won't find many duplicates at your Halloween parties. It is easy to do if you have the right components. Men can use a regular black suit. Women wanting to pull off this look could use a tuxedo jacket from her wardrobe and pair it over some straight leg black pants.

What you need
Bowler Hat
Cane
Tailored jacket and trousers
White button down shirt
Black or grey vest
Neutral tie
Male dress shoes or loafers or oxford for ladies

Tie your jacket with only one button in the middle of your chest. Your white button down shirt and vest should be sticking out from underneath the button. Charlie Chaplin was a clumsy character so you need to look a little disheveled. His bowler hat is another signature part of his look. You can find a bowler at a thrift store, costume store, or any discount clothing outlet.

Makeup
Charlie Chaplin's makeup is very distinctive. All you need is some light powder to create a pale face and dark hues to create his brows, mustache, and eyes. Firstly start off with a clean face. Use a brush to apply the powder throughout. The paler the better. Next apply the gray shadow, or if you have brow makeup, to your brows to create a full eyebrow. Apply gently and working your way with more. The brows are strong and dark so if you want to be more bold use some black eyeliner. When you are finished with the brow you can move onto the mustache. Chaplin's mustache is not very wide, but it is dark. Use the gray shadow to create a base and then go over with some mascara and liner to make it fuller. The last step is your eyes. Line them heavily with a black pencil. They key is to apply liner all around the eye.

Hair
Charlie Chaplin had dark, disheveled hair hidden underneath his bowler hat. Men don't need to do much, but women bold enough to dress like a man, tie your hair into a loose ponytail and hide it under your hat. Secure loose ends with bobby pins to make sure your hair stays in place.

Homemade Halloween Costume Ideas - Wonder Woman

2009-10-29T16:21:00.013-04:00

Wonder Woman is a very popular costume on Halloween, mostly because powerful, superheroes are slim pickins for us ladies. You can find lots of pre-made costumes, however where is the fun in that??

Bodysuit
You will need blue shorts or a skirt. Be creative and use something you already have. They do not have to be as short as the real Wonder Woman costume). Boy-cut bottoms work really well, as well as anything of the daisy duke persuasion. For the white stars on her short you can cut out start from white felt or even cardboard. Use fabric or double-sided tape to stick on your stars. For the top part of the body suit you can use a red tube top or bustier. If you don't have any, a fitted sleeveless shirt will do. Tuck your red shirt into the shorts.

The important part of the Wonder Woman jumpsuit top is the gold accents. This will be the most difficult to pull off. You can buy gold fabric and cut out a deep v design to place along your chest. Again you can use fabric tape. You will need a sturdy plastic like fabric which may be a bit harder to find. Of course since this is last minute you have other easier alternatives. Gold foil or lightweight poster paper can be found at a dollar or craft store. Cut out the v and make a belt that connects to your chest piece.

Accessories
You can use this paper for the Wonder Woman cuffs on each hand. The harder poster paper is the perfect material to make the crown since it is bendable but sturdy. Cut out a long rectangle that points at the top. Afterward affix a red star in the middle. The tricky part is how to keep this band on your head. If you find an elastic band, you can paste the elastic to both sides of the crown in order to make sure it stays secure on your head.

Boots
If you have a pair of red boots lying around than you are lucky indeed, but if you are like me red boots aren't really your thing. Of course this shouldn't prevent you from being Wonder Woman, you just need to think outside the box. Try using red stockings or knee high socks. Pull the socks over over ballet flats so you aren't walking around completely barefoot.
Use the extra felt you have left over from the white stars in order to make the stripes on the boot. Cut out two long white stripes with a point at the top. These will go on the front part of your boots all the way down to the toes. The pointed part of the white felt should be at the top. Next cut out two smaller pieces of white felt long enough to fit around your calf. Connect these stripes underneath the pointed white stripe at the top of your boots or stockings.

Homemade Halloween Costume Ideas - Frida Kahlo

2009-10-29T11:26:00.010-04:00

Last year while I was in Montreal taking a French course I had no Halloween costume ideas. I was actually thinking of not dressing up (blasphemy I know). But the morning before my school's Halloween costume contest I decided to go as Frida Kahlo. I had an hour to get ready. After digging though my closet, I was able to put together my costume and my impromptu ensemble ended up winning me first place (tied with a male nurse wearing a skirt).

What you will need
Colorful and flower clothing. Use the clothes you already have, anything Mexican inspired. Frida Kahlo had a very unique style and used lots of full and floral skirts and dresses. Put on a white blouse or a black cape. Put flowers in your hair and put on statement jewelry pieces. Costume jewelry is perfect. Craft stores have fake flowers connected to wire which you can easily affix in your hair.

For my costume I found a flowered Spanish style dress that I had gotten at H&M. Then I put on a pair of dangling gold earrings and a beaded red necklace. I used the fake flowers I had in my apartment and put some in my hair (not pictured below). This took me less than an hour to find and put together. If you have more time and planning you can achieve a much more fun in depth look.

Signature Brows
To create the eyebrows you will need brown eyebrow makeup (or brown eye shadow - no shimmer) and mascara. First take the brown eyebrow color and fill in your brows with a shadow brush. Apply a little at a time because you want to make it look as natural as possible. After you connect the brows take some mascara and go over the makeup with your brush, going upwards. Again less is more. You don't want it to be too overpowering.

Hair
For Frida's hair you can pull your hair up into a simple bun or create the braid around the crown of your head. If you know how to french braid hair it will be simple. Instead of doing a typical french braid you will do one along the crown.

1- Bend forwards so it falls evenly and gathers at the front of your head.
2- Section your hair from behind your left ear until the middle of your head (the center part).
3- Divide this section into 3 more sections and start doing the french braid along the crown of your head.
4- Tighten the braid and make sure it is close to your head and not loose.
5- Braid until you reach your other ear. Now you can pin your hair into place and create a bun.

Homemade Halloween Costume Ideas - Beyonce & Sasha Fierce

2009-10-29T10:25:00.015-04:00

BEYONCE SINGLE LADIES VIDEO
This video has already become one of the most iconic videos of our time. Just ask Kanye. The costume is pretty easy (especially if you have long hair). If Justin Timberlake can do it so can you.

What you need:
Black Leotard (you can cut off one sleeve if you'd like to make it more authentic to the video, but you don't have to).
Nude tights/ pantyhose/ or leggings
Heels
Black Gloves

For Beyonce's arm piece you can be creative. I went to the dollar store and found a kids toy armor that goes around your hand and up your forearm. You can take something similar and spray paint it black, apply some studs and metal accents and tah dah...you have the arm piece.

For hair and makeup check out Sasha Fierce below.

SASHA FIERCE

Beyonce's alter ego is pretty easy to do. Chances are you already have many of her fierce looks in your closet. Beyonce seems to enjoy the not wearing pants for this album, which may make some modest folk blush. You don't have to go with the leotard look, although it will make it more authentic. Use your creativity and you can play around with the look.

What you need:
Leotard or shiny leggings like these from American Apparel.
Tall boots
Any tops that are black, shiny, and form fitting
An asymmetrical black jacket or leather jacket.
Go to a dollar or craft store and find whatever studs and metal accents you can. Be creative. Affix the studs to your leotard. Create harsh angles. Use shoulder pads to create a severe shoulder.

You may remember the fringed glasses in Beyonce's Diva video. You can make these glasses yourself. At a craft store find some fringe and glue it to the top of a pair of cheap glasses (dollar store find). Afterward cut the fringe into the shape of frames.

Hair:
Beyonce's Single Ladies look has a lot of volume at the top of her head. You will need to section pieces of your hair and tease the top portion. Johnny Lavoy explains how to get the Beyonce look.

Makeup:
The defining look of Sasha Fierce makeup is essentially a really smoky eye. Johnny Lavoy explains how to get this look.

Homemade Halloween Costume Ideas - Betty Boop

2009-10-29T10:15:00.002-04:00

There are a myriad of Betty Boop costume dresses on the internet, but you don't need to buy one if you already have a black or red strapless dress. Chances are the dress you already own is not as provocative as Miss Boop's dress, however you can sew it temporarily to create a shorter hemline.

What you need
To look like Betty Boop you will need a black or red strapless dress. It has to be somewhat form fitting in order to pull it off. If it isn't short enough you can shorten the hemline temporarily by sewing it up a few inches. Sew by hand so the stitching is easy to remove later. If you are lucky enough to own a top hat, you can finish off the look with a cap and cane.

Garter
You can make the Betty Boop garter by sewing a piece of yellow fabric together and using double sided tape to make sure it sticks on your body. Felt is cheap and works well. After you make your belt, cut out a red heart and sew it to your yellow garter. Yellow lace is another option you can use for the garter. A craft store should carry both the felt and lace.

Jewelry
You could always buy the costume jewelry for Betty Boop at any party store;

But you don't have to. All you need is some yellow earrings and a yellow bangle.
Hair
Betty Boop has a pin curl style, very prominent of the time. You don't have to buy a wig in order to get the look, but you will need the time in order to set the pin curls yourself. Check out Hair Boutique for a step by step instruction guide on how to do the curls yourself.

Jean Paul Gaultier For Target

2009-10-20T18:15:00.011-04:00

Jean Paul Gaultier is set to create a collection for Target's Designer Collaboration series. To be a part of the series he has to choose a muse. Designers before him, like Anna Sui, chose the girls of Gossip Girl, and I must admit I wasn't CRAZY about many of the character's outfits. Alexander McQueen's line was more simple and rock and roll, makes sense since his inspiration was Liela Moss of The Duke Spirit. Gaultier chose a more common muse, the American woman:

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target pays tribute to the American woman, celebrating the forces of style both past and present in American pop culture, the retailer said (the cut).

I have to admit I'm excited to see his collection, mostly because I'm curious how his vision will mesh with a tribute for the American woman. His Spring 2010 ready to wear collection was edgy and forward looking, like many of his collections are. A surprise to me was the multitude of overalls that appeared, from wideleg to skinny leg. Could there be overalls in this new collection? Probably something more wearable like a jumper.

On a different note, Gaultier wouldn't be Gaultier if he didn't use the current trend of the moment, lingerie.

With a line aptly titled, "The G Spot," it is certainly reminiscent of a style icon he has styled in the past. Who could forget those pointy bras, bustiers, and straps. Many people have been saying that Gaultier is borrowing from his famous Madonna looks he designed for her Blonde Ambition tour. I found these Jean Paul Gaultier sketches on The Ultimate Madonna.

Now it seems doubtful that he will be creating any cone bustiers for his American woman inspired Target collection, but a girl can hope. Just admit it. You've always wanted a cone bra too, especially at affordable Target prices.

Her Morning Elegance

2009-10-15T14:48:00.003-04:00

I find myself watching this video over and over again. It is beautifully shot and most probably one of my favorite music videos.

Soon she's down the stairs
Her morning elegance she wears
The sound of water makes her dream
Awoken by a cloud of steam
She pours a daydream in a cup
A spoon of sugar sweetens up

And She fights for her life
As she puts on her coat
And she fights for her life on the train
She looks at the rain
As it pours
And she fights for her life
As she goes in a store
With a thought she has caught
By a thread
She pays for the bread
And She goes...
Nobody knows

Jason Wu

2009-09-18T11:35:00.006-04:00

Jason Wu is famous for dressing our First Lady Michelle Obama, in that beautiful off the shoulder, white gown she wore for a ball on inauguration day. I was excited to see what he had to offer, and was pleasantly surprised by his array of wearable outfits, that would leave most women wanting more.

Jumpers and short skirts cinched at the waist were predominant at Wu's show. These outfits were some of my favorites, no doubt a common trend for Spring and Fall (all you need to do is add some leggings). The reason I like this look so much is that it can be flattering on most body types. Since they cinch at the waist they accentuate the feminine form.

These two looks were some of the few that did not follow the belted waist rule. The pink suit was one of Wu only tailored creations and by far one of the most interesting looks. Admittedly not everyone could pull off such an outfit, because of the loose fit around the hip line and the slight tapering at the leg, however it may provide another possible outfit for our First Lady? Perhaps?

Vivienne Tam's Bohofly

2009-09-14T22:05:00.002-04:00

Vivienne Tam's seventies inspired, butterfly prints stood out because of the flowy fabrics, beautiful colors, and obvious femininity. Lately it seems that us ladies have been opting for harsher, less inspired ensembles (I include myself in this drab category). As Marc Jacobs has said, he's tired of seeing women in black and studs. Of course I swoon at Marc's every word. Vivienne's collection is fun, and because of my penchant for all things bright and printed, Tam's is a collection I would wear, particularly the pairing a a fitted blazer or vest over the flowy fabrics.

Ohne Titel Egyptian Inspiration

2009-09-14T18:23:00.007-04:00

Alexa Adams and Flora Gill of Ohne Titel's, pulled from an ancient culture for inspiration for their Spring 2010 collection. The designing duo used the colored palette of Ancient Egyptian wall paintings, to create their asymmetrically lined pieces that included laced neck braces and shoes.

Image via: Trustees of the British Museum

After a trip to Egypt a couple years ago, I became obsessively curious about this ancient culture. My curiosity has made my excitement for this collection all the more palpable. The inspiration from Pharaohs, kings, and queens is subtle but impacting. Ancient Egyptians had a unique style and culture, as well as a keen fascination with ornamentation and dress code.

Patchwork Jeans

2009-09-14T07:41:00.002-04:00

These pictures on the Sartorialist made me smile. I let out a corroborative cry of glee for model Filippa Berg and her patchwork denim jeans, since I myself did a little patchwork on a pair of old pants this past week. My fickle economic situation has lead to crafty solutions and new takes on style, but mostly prevents me from throwing away my pants with holes in them.

Estas fotos de parte del Sartorialist me hicieron sonreír. Esta semana yo también remendé unos pantalones con un parche. Mi situación económico me ha hecho probar otros remedios estílisticos, pero más que nada me impide tirar pantalones con agujeros.

The Recovery Starts Here

2009-09-12T12:25:00.003-04:00

Image via: style.com

Grace Jones 80s Icon and Structured Shoulders

2009-09-11T16:33:00.017-04:00

People have spoken about the obvious influence from Michael Jackson on Balmain's Fall RTW 2009, and I also want to include that every time I look at the line I think Grace Jones. The severity and the clean lines make me think of no other than 80s fashion icon herself.

Mucha gente ha comentado que la pret a porter de Balmain este otoño fue muy influído por Michael Jackson. Yo también quiero incluir Grace Jones a esa lista. La severidad me hace pensar en este icono de la moda.

Balmain isn't the only one to make shoulder interesting this fall. Marc Jacobs also has numerous structured jackets and coats this fall.

Balmain no es el único que hace hombros interesantes esta temporada. También Marc Jacobs nos presenta chaquetas y blazers architectónicos.

Dolce & Gabbana also worked with a pronounced shoulder, just not as severe lines.

Dolce & Gabbana hizo los hombros pronunciados, pero las lineas no son tan severas.

More Grace Jone's photographs.

Más fotos de Grace Jones.

Bright Lights Gambling City

2009-09-10T15:40:00.002-04:00

While many may scoff at the Sin City of the east coast, I was very excited to spend Labor Day weekend celebrating my birthday in AC. Atlantic City is synonymous with extravagance and there is nothing better than extreme, overindulgence, on occasion. This picture of Cindy Crawford really epitomizes, in my eyes, what it means to dress up and go to Atlantic City: the bling around her neck, the deep V blazer with checkered embroidery, the big sunglasses that take up half her face, and the bright pink lipstick.

I had initially wanted to don the kind of outfit people spot from a mile away, I mean you live once right. Perhaps some sparkle or an animal print like the jacket miss Moss is wearing below. Alas I put down all the sequins and faux fur I was trying on in the Century 21 dressing room and decided to go for a simple, body hugging pink dress. I did however sport the big Jersey girl hair and matte lipstick, cause you know... when in Rome.

Elena Cruz, My Namesake Jewelry Designer

2009-09-10T10:12:00.005-04:00

The handmade jewelry collection of Elena Cruz is made with lots of love. While reading Miss at la Playa I came across the designer and fell in love with her silver handmade medals. Not only do we share the same name, but we also share the same taste for simple and elegant jewellery. You can visit Elena's blog here, as well as her shop at big cartel and etsy. Currently her etsy cart is empty but she will be updating it shortly.

Las joyas de Elena Cruz son hechas a manos con mucho amor. Descubrí los diseños de Elena Cruz cuando leía el blog de Miss at la Playa. No solamente compartimos el mismo nombre, pero también un gusto simple y elegante. Me encantan estas medallas de plata! Puedes visitar el blog de Elena y también sus tiendas porbig cartel y etsy. La tienda de etsy esta vacío pero pronto lo va a reemplazar.

Back To School Wishlist

2009-09-07T22:11:00.010-04:00

September is here and soon enough the barbecues will end, kids will reluctantly return to school, employees will stop slacking off, and there will be plenty of crunchy leaves to step on. Is there a more satisfying feeling than veering off course to step on the fallen leaves? Nope I didn't think so.

There is something about September that resonates with seriousness. The astrological month of Virgo is associated with the last harvest, the image of gathering and preparing for the dreary months ahead, and in my case that will hopefully consist of a jumper like this one by Love Milly and this beautiful coat by Argentine designer Jazmin Chebar.

Even though my school girl days are long behind me, I can't help but daydream of a back to school wardrobe. As I often prefer my 'pretendland' to reality, I put together a fall wardrobe wish list for myself.

Zara puff sleeve cotton shirt, Custo Barcelona printed shirt dress, and Paola Hernandez white botton down coat.

Typically I do not enjoy multiple straps tightening around my ankles, however for these Givenchy crocodile print sandals I would gladly make the sacrifice.

Recently I have been drooling over Balmain boots and now I want these Balmain zipper suede pumps. I love love love the zipper embellishments. I've been searching the world wide web for a similar shoe with a more humble price tag, but to no avail.

Polka Dot Tights

2009-09-02T12:39:00.002-04:00

I've been seeing these tights everywhere, most recently on Garance Doré and the Stylish Wanderer. They make me excited for Fall, which by the way is creeping closer and closer. This morning I had to wear a sweater when I went for a walk with my puppy Nico.

500 Days of Summer Dance Video

2009-09-02T12:27:00.006-04:00

Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel from 500 Days of Summer dance in a bank.

via: Eric Lodwick

Big Hair

2009-09-01T08:00:00.002-04:00

After years of tugging, pulling, ironing, pressing, drying, and all but ripping out every strand of hair, in order to get the sleek look I desired so badly, I have finally embraced the mess of curls that sit atop my head. In fact, the character trait I used to disguise then, is the very thing I like to emphasize now and I like to make it big people. I may be modest about a lot of things, but when it comes to hair, I love the thick unruly chaos.

The street style blog Au Coin De Ma Rue has really cool pictures of people from all over the world with very different style. I picked out a few pictures of some fellow curly heads like myself. Embrace the curls.

There is something special about a man with tousled hair. Makes you want to run your hands through it and fuss it up!

Here is a picture of me and a friend (I'm on the right).

Malababa

2009-08-31T23:41:00.002-04:00

I found out about Malababa from Amlul and immediately fell in love with the bags. I admit that I have a penchant for Spanish designers like Malababa's Ana Carrasco who opened her first studio in Madrid, however take a look at the purses yourself. They are classic designs which makes them easy to pair with any outfit; however some designs have a touch of color and different texture that makes them more interesting.

Here are some of her bags from an older collection that I'm hoping to get my hands on.

My Obsession With Fashion Illustrators

2009-08-27T12:25:00.006-04:00

One of the reasons I am completely obsessed with fashion illustrators is because of their ability to display their creative vision on paper, not to mention my absolute jealousy of their artistic talents. I wish I could create the way some of my favorites do, such as Garance Doré and Ruben Toledo. Now fashion illustrator and painter Danny Roberts has completely won me over as well.

Una de las razones por qué estoy tan obsesionada con ilustradores es por la capacidad lo cual ellos demuestran su visión, y por ser honesta, estoy completamente celosa de sus talentos artísticos. Me gustaría crear ilustraciones como lo hacen mis favoritos como Garance Doré y Rubén Toledo. Ahora el ilustrador de moda Danny Roberts, también me ha seducido.

Danny Roberts' blog Igor + André is quickly becoming one of my favorite reads. He features and sells his artistic designs, artwork, and clothing on his blog. He collaborated with Harajuku Lovers (Miss Gwen's fashion line) to make these adorable t-shirts. I have never wanted as many t-shirts as I do right now.

El blog de Danny Roberts, Igor + André, es una de mis blog favoritas. El publica y vende sus diseños, pinturas, y ropa sobre su blog. El colaboró con la línea de Gwen Stefani, Harajuku Lovers, e hizo estas camisetas muy padres. Nunca quise tantas camisetas en mi vida.

Fashion blogger, t-shirt designs have become very popular recently, and favorites like Susie Bubble and Rumi have been selling their designs through Borders & Frontiers. Danny Roberts also collaborated with Borders & Frontiers to make his girls in glasses shirt.

Los diseños de camisetas hecho por bloggers está popularizando, y favoritos como Susie Bubble y Rumi están vendiendo sus diseños por Borders & Frontiers. Danny Roberts también ha colaborado con Borders & Frontiers para hacer su camiseta de mozas con gafas.

Image via: WWD.

Color Color Color

2009-08-25T13:24:00.003-04:00

I guess because summer is slowly coming to an end that I have recently become obsessed with color, (ok well more so than usual). Wearing bright colors can make a sallow complexion glow and an otherwise boring outfit interesting. If you're outfit is neutral you can spice it up with colorful accessories like these vintage glass rings from Free People.

Marais USA has tons of colorful sandals to choose from! Marais USA was started by two Parson School of Design students who strove to fill a 'terrible abyss in the market: Simple, Versatile, Essential styles that don't break the bank.'

Images via: Vogue.

Kina Fernandez

2009-08-23T11:13:00.004-04:00

Kina Fernandez is a Spanish designer from the province of Galicia. I may be a teeny bit partial to her designs since my dad's family reigns from this mountainous province in the north of Spain, but nonetheless Kina Fernandez has a style that is both classic and uniquely her own. Her pieces are chic are wearable and never over the top. This spring I really liked her fringe skirts and sailor inspired colors.

I was first drawn to Kina Fernandez honestly when I realized that she was born in Ourense, where I had spent a good part of my childhood summers. Fellow Gallegos Adolfo Dominguez and Amancio Ortega creator of Zara, are other notable Galicians who have proved to be extremely influential in the fashion industry.

For fall Kina Fernandez created a collection with many varied textures and colors however they all have a common thread throughout. The design are for the working urban girl, something I would have worn a lot when I had worked at my old office job; however her designs aren't boring, and go far beyond business casual. I really like the animal prints, black and white print skirt, as well as her textured sweater dress.

In Spain, I still remember the way my grandmother would stress the importance of dressing well. If you left the house you had to look your best because who knows who you might run into! No yoga or sweatpants for the Spanish woman.

Balmain Crystal Animal-Print Boots

2009-08-21T13:24:00.004-04:00

Balmain crystal animal-print boots, cashmere cape, Phillip Lim fur vest, Alexander McQueen skinny pants.

What do you think of these Balmain crystal animal-print boots? They are black suede and covered with Swarovski crystals. If only I could get my hands on the 3K price tag I'd be wearing these bad boys throughout all of fall. I love them!

Que te parece estas botas de Balmain? Son de ante negro y cubiertas de cristales Swarovski. Si pudiera conseguir 3 mil dolares para comprar estas botas los pondría durante todo el otoño. Los adoro!

Images via: Net-A-Porter.

Garance Doré

2009-08-20T00:18:00.021-04:00

Garance Doré is one of my favorite fashion and style bloggers. She is an illustrator who longed to have more contact with her readers, hence she started her blog Garance Doré. Her talent as an illustrator as well as her keen eye for spotting interesting style has made her blog one of the best (in my humble opinion).

Garance also contributes to Vogue Paris with her "Une fille, un style" column. Also Gap is creating a concept store that will display Garance's illustrations, and the Gap will also sell t-shirts of her illustrations. I for one cannot wait to get my hands on one!

Garance Doré es una de mis bloggers de moda y estilo favoritos. Ella es una ilustradora que quiso tener mas contacto con sus clientes entonces creyó su blog Garance Doré. Su talento de ilustración, y también su talento de encontrar estilo interesante ha hecho su blog uno de los mejores (en mi opinión).

Garance también ha contribuido a Vogue Paris con su columna "Une fille, un style." El Gap va crear una tienda donde van a exponer sus dibujos. El Gap también va vender camisas de sus ilustraciones. Tengo muchas ganas de comprarme una!

Garance takes amazing street fashion photographs that come out natural and seem effortless.

Garance toma fotos increíbles del estilo de la gente que salen muy naturales y sin esfuerzo.

Via: Vogue Paris, View On Fashion, Garace Doré.

Love Affair With Zara

2009-08-19T23:06:00.003-04:00

I fell in love with this military style Zara Coat.
Me enamoré con este abrigo militar de Zara.

Can I tell you how much I love this outfit? The boots, the jacket, the headband... Everything, everything, everything!
No te puedo decir cuanto me encanta este traje. Las botas, la chaqueta, la cinta del pelo... todo, todo, todo!

Leather biker jackets are a must have piece, especially for fall. I absolutely love the blue leather, biker jacket that I have had for ages. I especially love the styling on the shoulders of this Zara jacket.
Chaquetas biker de cuero son necesario en tu conjunta de ropa, especialmente para otoño. Me encanta mi azul chaqueta biker que he tenido por anos y anos. Lo que me gusta de esta chaqueta de Zara es el estilo de los hombros.
-----------------------------------------
More from Zara trends.
Más de las tendencias de Zara.

Images via: Zara.

Style While Riding

2009-08-17T23:19:00.006-04:00

Amsterdam may be the city for bikes, but Montreal is not far behind. Last week when I was in Montreal, I felt a small pang of nostalgia for my old bike and the days I used to ride clumsily around the city. Style is not lost among riders in Montreal. There are no bicycle shorts and spandex here. Girls ride around in skirts and dresses with ease, not to mention full length coats in the beginning winter months. It is a skill that you quickly acquire when you arrive in this city and get your first bike.

The big tan sunglasses worn by the girl in black horizontal stripes are amazing, although I don't know if I can pull off those big frames. She looks so chic with her red lipstick and classic shorts. I love the bright blue scarf the other girl tied around her neck. It really makes her outfit.

Image via: Elle Québec

Here are some pictures my friend took while we rode around Montreal.

Sur la route de Montréal je roule.
-Kain 'Jusqu'au Ciel'

Le Comptoir D'ailleurs Candle

2009-08-17T13:42:00.017-04:00

Le Comptoir D'ailleurs is a boutique in Montreal's Mile End that sells beautiful, decorative candles. The last time I went inside this unique boutique there were no lights, merely the illumination from dimly lit candles strewn throughout the store. Le Comptoir D'ailleurs carries artisan candles by Amira a brand created by two French artists who decided to live in Marrakech.

The boutique is suited for the Mile End, one of the trendiest and up and coming neighborhoods of Montreal. The boho appeal of decorative candles give a truly warm feel to your home. Photographer Pierre Choiniere created a catalog for Amira that is more similar to a photography book than a typical catalog.

Le Comptoir D'ailleurs
4817 boulevard St. Laurent
Montreal, Qc H2T 1R6

The design blog Design*Sponge had a post how to make travel candles. Check it here.

Images via: Comptoir D'ailleurs

Lemonade The Movie

2009-08-13T10:35:00.005-04:00

The recession has affected us all somehow. We all know someone who has lost his or her job or maybe it has affected us personally. No one wants to get that doomed phone call into their bosses office, where they will be asked to close the door behind them and sit down.
The movie Lemonade strives to prove that perhaps something great can come out of one of the worst days of your life. Maybe now you are free to do what you've always dreamed of whether it be an artist, a yoga instructor, or even a female? Take a peek at the video below to see a preview of the documentary.

(Thank you Swiss-Miss)

Fifty People One Question

2009-08-12T10:32:00.001-04:00

Where would you wish to wake up tomorrow?

While rummaging through more boutique websites here in Montreal I came across Unicorn. Unicorn is a boutique that I visited today on Saint Laurent, and so far has been one of my favorites. On their blog they posted a very interesting video project by Crush + Lovely and Deltree. Fifty People One Question is a short video montage where the creators stopped people in Brooklyn and London and asked them the simple question: Where would you wish to wake up tomorrow?

It is very interesting to see how people react to the camera and the question. Many people choose to wake up in their own bed. Others do not care where they wake up as long as it is with someone else. One of the participants said that she would love to wake up in a world where your closet open up to someone else's closet and each morning you get to share breakfast with someone new.

The magic closet idea is very appealing, since my answer varies from day to day. Some days I wish I would wake up in Galicia Spain at the house of my grandparents where I spent so many summers as a child. Others times I'd like to wake up somewhere new and unexplored, and more often than not I would like to wake up in New Jersey in my little town with my family and my dog Nico. That's what makes me happy.

So where would you wake up tomorrow?

Fifty People, One Question: Brooklyn from Fifty People, One Question on Vimeo.

Fifty People, One Question: London from Fifty People, One Question on Vimeo.

Angry Little Girls

2009-08-10T15:09:00.013-04:00

To continue on with the snarky products theme, I decided to cover the Angry Little Girl brand that I saw at Boutique Onze on St Laurent in Montreal. This particular boutique sells Angry Little Girl bags, but there are plenty of Angry Little Girl products to choose from. The creator of Angry Little Girls, Lela Lee, describes her project as a comic strip about girls who are disenchanted, crazy, fresh, gloomy, and all around angry. They are honest to say the least. The most intriguing part of the line is that the creator Lela Lee seems not at all like her angry Asian character. She herself states the surprise most people experience when they meet her and she isn't spouting profanities or angry comments.
Neverless, Kim, the original Angry Little Girl, is one hot tempered gal. She tells it like it is and if you can't do it yourself maybe one of her bags and accessories might help you out.

Wow! Cute bag!
Get your own bag bitch!

Hi!
Don't bother trying. I'm way out of your league.

What are you doing?
I'm keeping track of how many times you annoy me.

Hey! That's my boyfriend!
It's okay. I'm recycling!

Wow, you speak English so well.
I was born here you dumbass.

Courtesy Cards That Are Maybe a Bit Too Honest

2009-08-05T14:35:00.016-04:00

We have all bit our tongues at one point or another whether it be each time your obnoxious neighbor seems to sneak a peek into your blouse, or when your old classmate feels the need to boast his high salary once again, or perhaps when your chatty co-worker who never let's you finish your work comes over to tell you about her weekend. Wouldn't it be easier if you could just slip them a card with your sentiments and just sneak away?

The other day I stumbled upon these brilliant cards on Etsy. Finally, courtesy cards that say exactly what you mean! The cards from Gramkin Paper Studio, are the perfect solution to seemingly disruptive situations, if only it were socially acceptable to say what you feel no matter what. Personally my favorite is the bite me card that has a cookie at the bottom that has been bitten into. Brilliant really. The next time that guy on the bus starts yelling into his cellphone while everyone is trying to sleep, quietly and politely give him the please lower your voice card. He of all people needs one of these cards.

500 Days of Summer

2009-08-03T15:19:00.009-04:00

This weekend I saw the movie 500 Days of Summer, and just like a cool summer day, it revitalized me and made me nostalgic, all the while keeping my feet firmly planted on the ground. The movie is realistic in such a way that most romantic comedies could never be. The obvious way that character Tom Hansen idealizes his past hits so close to home because like so many of us, he colors his memories with his illusions. After all isn't that how most people remember past loves, with a completely unfair favoring of all the good times; the way the other person made us feel, the way we always seemed so happy, except for when, well we weren't happy.

Este fin de semana vi la película 500 Days of Summer y como un día de verano refrescante, la película me reanimo y me hizo nostálgica, sin embargo con mis pies firmemente plantados en el piso. La película explicaba situaciones muy realistas, más que la mayoría de otras comedias románticas. La manera como el personaje Tom Hansen idealiza su pasado es tan parecido a muchos de nosotros que pintamos nuestros recuerdos con nuestras ilusiones falsas. Es injusto que la mayoría de nosotros acordamos nuestros amores del pasado a favor de todos los buenos tiempos. Acordamos como la otra persona nos hizo sentir, la manera que siempre estábamos tan contentos, a menos cuando estábamos infeliz.

As the tagline says: Boy meets girl. Boy falls in love. Girl doesn't. Not your typical romantic comedy, but it is so refreshingly honest. The above fan artwork is from the blog The Future Embrace, another fan of 500 Days of Summer.

Las noticias dicen: Hombre conoce mujer. El hombre se enamora. La Mujer no. No es la típica comedia romántica, pero es sorprendentemente sincero. Encontré esta ilustración hecho por un fan en el blog The Future Embrace, otro fan de 500 Days of Summer.

Summer's aloof demeanor is a mystery to Tom. She is carefree and independent, qualities that frustrate him and attract him at the same time. I love the style and fashion choices made for the movie. Summer is effortlessly feminine and quirky, wearing full skirts, cardigans, flats, vests and an endless selection of the color blue, invoking the 1940s, a time when most women tended to concentrate on falling in love, getting married, and raising kids. Summer states from the very beginning that she does not want these options for herself, for the moment anyhow. I won't lie, after watching the film I am a little inspired to take out a full skirt out of my closet and pair it with a white cotton blouse, and maybe find a park where I can gallivant around.

La comportamiento de Summer es muy distante y un misterio para Tom. Ella es muy despreocupada y independiente, calidades que frustran y atraen a Tom a la misma vez. Me encanta el estilo que eligieron para la película. Summer es muy femenina y un poco rara. Se viste con faldas globo, sacos clásicos, zapatos bajos, chalecos, y mucho azul, ropa que invoca la época de los 40, cuando la mayoría de mujeres se preocupaban de enamorarse, casarse, y criar sus hijos. Desde el principio Summer dice que ella no quiere estas cosas, por ahora por lo menos. No puedo mentir, después de ver esta película me da ganas de sacar una falda globo de mi armario con una blusa blanca, y quizá caminar por un parque aquí cerca de mi casa.

Fashion Under $50

2009-07-28T13:53:00.007-04:00

Recently a very good friend of mine started a fashion blog where she uncovers fashion finds at low prices. Fashion Under $50, if you will. She tells you exactly where to buy the products and she provides links to make online purchases. I was really looking forward to her blog since she truly has a great sense of style and love of fashion. Make sure to check out her blog!

Recientemente una buena amiga mía empezó un blog de fashion donde puedas encontrar la mejor ropa por precios bajos. Fashion Under $50, es el blog. Ella te dice que tiendas tienen los productos y también te da los enlaces para poder hacer las compras por Internet. Era inevitable que empezara el blog porque ella tiene mucho estilo y ama la moda. Visita su blog aquí!

Feeling Classic

2009-07-27T21:22:00.006-04:00

With all these Coco Chanel biopics coming out, I've been feeling a bit classic lately.

Con todas estas peliculas sobre Coco Chanel, mi estilo ha sido un poco mas clásica.

Etsy Find: Santokivintage

2009-07-23T09:53:00.001-04:00

I love the idea of Etsy.com, the website that 'enables people to make a living making things, and to reconnect makers with buyers.' The idea that people can make a living off of handmade clothing is somewhat unfeasible, especially considering the mass market society we live in, but it seems to work for Etsy. That being said there are also many people who sell vintage on the site.

Santokivintage is a seller on Etsy that has many amazing dresses and shoes available, most under $100. I noticed this vintage Mexican mini dress because it is a dress that is made by artisans in Puebla Mexico. They are most often used as blouses. The teal dress and florals make an interesting contrast. The dress is pretty cheap for only $33. If you were to find this in a Mexican market it would most likely cost less than $10.

Amo el concepto de Etsy.com, la página web que permite que gente gane la vida haciendo cosas hecho a mano y logra reunir los fabricantes con los compradores. Como vivimos en una sociedad consumista, este idea es un poco increíble, igual la pagina es muy própero. También hay gente que vende vintage, no solo cosas que ellos han hecho ellos mismos.

Santokivintage es un vendedor por Etsy, que vende vestidos y zapatos, muchos por menos de $100. Noté este vestido vintage Mexicano porque es un vestido hecho por los artesanos de Puebla México. Más de nada usan este estilo como blusas. El color cerceta y el estampado de flores hace un contraste interesante. El vestido es barato por solo $33. Si encuentras este clase de vestido en México sería menos de $10.

I would wear the dress paired with leggings and the black woven ankle boots (also sold by Santokivintage).

Pondria este vestido con leggings y estos botas al tobillo (también vendido por Santokivintage).

Ritu Kumar

2009-07-21T21:05:00.016-04:00

Inspired by the Indian wedding I went to this weekend, I began to peruse through a few Indian fashion magazines, most notably Vogue India. Ritu Kumar stood out because of the way she incorporates traditional Indian clothing and designs with Western, Japanese, and Islamic influences. She has boutiques all over India and, funny enough, a boutique in Edison, New Jersey. One of these days I am going to check it out and see what it is like. I'll update when I do.

Estaba inspirada por la boda que asistí este fin de semana, entonces empecé a leer revistas de la moda de la India, particularmente Vogue India. Los diseños de Ritu Kumar salen de lo común porque combina los tradiciones de su país natal con influencias del Oeste, Japoneses, y Islamicas. Kumar tiene tiendas por todo la India, y también en Edison, New Jersey. Pronto iré a la tienda a ver como es. Escribiré cuando voy.

Image via: Vogue India.

Desi Wedding Inspiration

2009-07-20T21:50:00.007-04:00

This past week I attended the wedding of a close friend of mine. It was the first Hindu wedding I have ever attended and I had the most amazing time. For anyone with a love of fashion and color, it would have been paradise. Naturally I was in heaven (if you can't tell by now, I adore lots of color).

Indian weddings traditionally last for a couple days (hence for my lack of posts last week). The celebrations which lead up to the main ceremony create a dramatic atmosphere. People change their clothes for each ceremony, multiple times throughout the day, especially the bride. The bride's outfits were unbelievable and extremely lavish and ornate, as they should be. All the fabrics were rich and the designs interesting. Unlike other weddings, where participants are not supposed to outshine the bride, there are no rules and everyone dresses brightly in striking colors and designs.

Esta semana fui a la boda de una amiga mía. Fue la primera boda Hindú que he asistido y lo pasé genial. Si te encanta la moda y colores intensas, la ceremonia sería un paraíso. Naturalmente estuve por las nubes (si no adivinas, amo a los colores brillantes).

Tradicionalmente las ceremonias duran muchos días (por eso no pude escribir la semana pasada). Las ceremonias antes de la boda crean mucha emoción. Los invitados cambian de ropa durante el día, especialmente la novia. Los vestidos de la novia son espectaculares y ornamentados. Las telas son suntuosas y los diseños son interesantes. No hay reglas, como en otras culturas donde los invitados no pueden robar la atención de la novia. Todos visten de vestidos ornamentados de colores fuertes.

Josep Font Haute Couture Influences

2009-07-12T18:00:00.024-04:00

Catalan designer Josep Font is known for his avant garde creations, which he says he designs for confident women. Confident you'd have to be in order to sport one of his attention getting designs, that's certain. This past week he showed his collection at the Haute Couture shows in Paris, the only Spanish designer to participate. He made his presence known with pieces that look more like works of art, rather than actual wearable clothes.

El diseñador Catalán Josep Font es conocido por sus creaciones avant garde, que el dice que el diseña para mujeres seguras de si mismas. Y como no? Tendrías que ser muy segura para poner uno de sus diseños que agarran tanta atención. Esta semana el presentó su colección en las pasarelas de alta costura en Paris, el único Español que participó. El llamó la atención con piezas que parecen más como obras de arte en vez de ropa práctica.

Font cited American artist Frank Stella among the influences for his collection. Frank Stella is known for using three dimensionality in his work, where he includes waves, curves, and architecture into his paintings. The dresses Font created also incorporate this technique, seen in his use of curves, ruffles and structured shoulders that rise at the tip.

Font dijo que el artista Estadounidense Frank Stella era unos de los influencias para la colección. Frank Stella es conocido por su uso de tri-dimensionalidad en sus obras, donde el incluye ondas, curvas, y arquitectura. Los vestidos de Font también incluyen esa técnica de curvas, arrugas, y la línea de los hombros que sube en un punto.

Frank Stella's "Severinda" (1995)
Frank Stella played around with the concept of painting, where instead of focusing on a picture as a representation of something else, he created pictures that were merely objects, representative of nothing more. This particular dress looks like the stylish sister of the Queen of Heart's from Alice in Wonderland.

Frank Stella experimentó con el concepto de la pintura, y en vez de enfocar en una foto como representación de algo, el hizo pinturas que son objetos, no la representación de otra cosa. Este vestido particular parece como la hermana stylish de la reina de corazones de Las Aventuras de Alicia en el País de maravillas.

Marbella Style, a great blog if you are looking for information on Spanish fashion, provides more pictures from the runway show. Mexico's Day of the Dead was also an influence in Font's collection, evident in his use of bright colors such as lemon yellow, topaz blue, fuchsia, deep red and green.

Marbella Style, un blog sobre la moda Española, muestra más fotos de la pasarela. El Día de los Muertos también influyó la colección de Font, evidente con el uso de colores brillantes como amarillo, azul de topacio, fucsia, rojo, y verde.

The Day of the Dead is a holiday where celebrants honor the memory of people who have since died. Here are pictures that I took while in Mexico during the Day of the Dead. You can see where Font may have gotten his inspiration for his bright color choices.

El Día de los Muertos es un festivo que honra las memorias de los muertos. Aquí hay fotos que saqué cuando estuve en México durante el festivo. Puedes ver como Font podría haber sido influido con toda la variedad de colores en los conmemorativos.

Images via: nytimes, marbellastyle.

Lazy Beach Days

2009-07-11T13:04:00.009-04:00

Laying on the beach always puts me in the best of moods. There is something about kicking off your shoes just as you hit the sand. I love wearing a long dress while walking down the boardwalk before stopping for some fresh homemade ice cream. When the sun begins to set, I pull on an over sized sweater to deflect the evening breeze.

Tomando sol en la playa siempre me pone de buen humor. No hay nada como la sensación de quitarse las sandalias justo a pisar la arena. Me encanta poner un vestido largo y caminar sobre el paseo marítimo antes de parar por unos helados artesanales. Cuándo el sol empieza a bajar me encanta poner un suéter grande para evitar la brisa de la noche.

Polyvore

The beach inspires bright colors and light fabrics and Diane von Furstenberg's spring collection gets it just right.

La playa inspira colores brillantes y telas lijeras, algo que la colleccion de Diana von Furstenberg logra.

Below are some sandals that are perfect for gallivanting around this summer. The Guiseppe Zanotti suede leather sandals are a more feminine version of the gladiator sandal. The Musa Grecian sandals are simple and casual for the beach.

Más abajo hay unas sandalias que sean perfectas para pasear este verano. Los Guiseppe Zanotti sandalias de piel de gamuza son un version mas femenina de los gladiadores que hemos visto. Las sandalias Musa, de estilo Griego, son simple y casual para poner en la playa.

Giuseppe Zanotti

Musa

Image via: style.com, Net - A - Porter.

Superhero Flip Flops

2009-07-11T10:11:00.012-04:00

While getting ready for the beach yesterday, I noticed that my flip flops had seen better days. I browsed the web for a new pair and I found these Wonder Woman Havaianas. Aren't they great? I mean who wouldn't want a superhero icon on the bottoms of their soles?

Ayer estaba preparando para ir a la playa y noté que mis chancletas han visto mejores días. Busqué por el internet por otro par y encontré estos Havaianas de Wonder Woman. A que son geniales? Quién no quisiera tener una super heroína por debajo de sus suelas?

A movie poster of Wonder Woman courtesy of movieposter.com.
Un postér de Wonder Woman por atención de movieposter.com.

Image via: Piperlime.

Custo Barcelona

2009-07-09T19:35:00.007-04:00

There are many reasons why I love Custo Barcelona. The colors, the design, and the prints are all very attention getting. The Dalmau brother are extremely imaginative and created a brand that was very unique to Spanish design at the time, such as designing t-shirts. Although these t-shirts are not like any old white t you may have in your closet.

Hay muchas razones lo cual me gusta tanto Custo Barcelona. Los colores, el diseño, y el estampado agarran atención. Los hermanos Dalmau son muy imaginativos y crearon una marca que era único en España en esa época, por ejemplo el diseño de t-shirts. Pero estas camisas no son como cualquiera en tu armario.

Image via: Custo Barcelona, Vogue.es.

Alejandra Quesada

2009-07-09T15:36:00.009-04:00

Alejandra Quesada is a Mexican designer based out of Mexico City. Lately I've been really loving her work. She uses lots of color in her designs and is influenced by Mexico's rich culture and handicrafts. For that reason, with each trip I make to Mexico I am truly inspired. The only regret I have is not having visited Alejandra Quesada's store this past December when I was there. Visit her website here.

Alejandra Quesada es una diseñadora Mexicana basada en la Ciudad de México. Últimamente me encanta su trabajo. Ella usa muchos colores en sus diseños y es muy influída por la cultura Mexicana y la artesanía. Por tal razón, cada viaje que hago a Mexico estoy más inspirada. El único arrepentimiento que tengo es no haber ido a la tienda de Alejandra Quesada cuando estuve allí. Visita su site web aquí.

Image via: Alejandra Quesada