La Rue Neuve

I've Moved!

2011-05-27T20:30:00.002-04:00

Well, not physically but virtually. Blogger is just too time-consuming and capricious.

Follow me at www.larueneuve.posterous.com

Gray Skies

2011-04-08T17:36:00.004-04:00

The title says it all really.
It is so much easier to blog when the weather cooperates.
Sigh.

Weekend Travels

2011-03-24T20:24:00.004-04:00

I am headed to New York tomorrow after work for a couple of days. Please forgive the short post. Between attempting to pack and trying to catch up on school work, my evening is getting away from me. I wish all of my lovely readers a wonderful weekend and a weekend full of wonder.

Jacket - Line / Shirt - Michael Stars / Skirt - Thrifted /
Shoes - Boutique 9 / Necklace - Banana Republic

Work - Play - Recess - Nap

2011-03-14T12:52:00.003-04:00

Sometimes I think that my yoga instructor can read my mind. Time and again, I show up to class on Saturday morning and during our savasana, she speaks words of truth directly relevant to what I am experiencing in that very moment. I am so grateful to her for that.

Jacket - Vintage / Cami - Ella Moss / Jeans - Banana Republican /
Necklace - Vintage / Shoes - Michael Kors

Overwhelmed is a significantly understated qualification for my state of mind for the past week or so. I just have so much on my plate right now and am honestly handling it very poorly. Unfortunately, this is fairly typical of me. Work and school are always my first priorities. I never take time to play. I refuse myself the opportunity to have recess. And I find a use for every possible waking minute, never taking a moment to actually rest until I crash every evening. Healthy, right? This past Saturday morning, as my weekend was just getting started, my yoga instructor thankfully gave me (well, I suppose it was meant for the whole class) a recipe for a productive, yet stress-free, day. I put it to work this past weekend and wouldn't you know that I actually got everything accomplished AND felt infinitely more positive about life in general!

Work - I had a ton of school work to get done this weekend and succeeded in doing all of it. I finally feel caught up. Interestingly, last week I did nothing but work and got very little done. I also was incredibly stressed out and frustrated.

Play - I played a lot this weekend. I participated in events held by both the DC Independent Film Festival and the DC Environmental Film Festival. I also went to dinner with friends a couple of times and to two yoga classes.

Recess - On Saturday, I took a break from studying and finished a completely pointless but utterly fascinating book that has been on my bedside table for a month. On Sunday, I walked over to a friend's house and enjoyed a couple of glasses of wine and good conversation in their front yard. It was such a beautiful day to be outside!

Nap - I napped. I napped a lot. And it was glorious. I took a long nap on Saturday afternoon and on Sunday morning I allowed myself to fall back asleep several times before getting out of bed.

It might seem like I was rather unproductive this weekend. To me in particular. I rarely give myself the opportunity to do anything but work and occasionally play. I certainly need more playtime in my life. But perhaps more importantly recess and naptime need to become a regular part of my day too. I'm going to work on this. If anything, this weekend proved to me that I can have a more-or-less balanced schedule and still accomplish the things that must get done for work and school. Go figure.

Be Gentle with Yourself

2011-03-03T06:43:00.004-05:00

I have learned so many unexpected life lessons from meditation as I have furthered my practice. I am still learning and am by no means an expert but every sitting teaches me something new. The chatter is surprisingly not my biggest obstacle. Of course, there's chatter - still much more than I'd like to admit - but my biggest obstacle is my reaction to the chatter. As soon as I recognize that my mind has strayed, I begin berating myself for once again not being able to completely release. Ironic, no? I am so harsh with myself and it's unfair and unproductive. It was after a group sitting that I did a couple of weeks ago that it came to me. Be gentle with yourself. The chatter is not ideal but I'm not perfect and eventually I'll be able to ignore the chatter. I will get to that point. So in the meantime be gentle.

Jacket - aryn K. / Sweater - Splendid / Tuxedo Tank - Wilt / Harem Pants - F21 / Boots - Dolce Vita

It wasn't until yesterday that I realized that I should begin applying this same attitude to other parts of my life. A friend and colleague emailed me with questions regarding my diet and ways to be healthier. I still think it's funny that people come to me with these questions considering I fail at being healthy much more than I am successful. In my response, I finished by telling her that my rules are just guidelines that have helped me be more conscious of what I'm eating. They are not meant to make you feel bad about yourself if you don't follow them. I told her to be gentle with herself.

I just finished up a class for my master's program and will begin another on Monday. I got my final grade back: 95. Good but it's not a 96 - what I would consider a high A. I was home alone that night and my stomach began knotting up as I sat on the couch with disappointment. No, I didn't get the grade I wanted. But I got a very good grade. I should have been more gentle with myself.

Growing up, I learned the power of positive and negative self-talk the hard way. I had to learn to consciously reverse negative thoughts about myself in order to calm my nerves and feelings of panic. But I still have a hard time being gentle - to my mind, body and soul. But am I not worthy of a little tenderness? Aren't we all?

Being gentle with yourself isn't the same as making excuses. Continue to work hard and continue to set goals. But when you fall short of those goals, remind yourself that it really is okay in the grand scheme of things. That you will try again next time and that next time is just as good as this time. Chatter doesn't just exist when one meditates. We are always chattering to ourselves and more often than we realize the chatter is hurting our selves. You are worthy of being good to yourself as much as you are worthy of others being good to you.

I will continue my meditation practice and will one day be able to ignore the chatter altogether. A 95 is a really good grade and a point lower than what I expected is a small price to pay for the nights I took off from studying to spend with loved ones. And it was a genuine mistake that I forgot to ask for no mayo on that vegan sandwich I tried to order a couple of days ago. There's always next time and in the meantime, I tried. And that's good enough.

Be gentle with yourself.

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2011-03-01T10:08:00.006-05:00

First of all, allow me to apologize to those of you who thought that I fell off the face of the earth and were genuinely concerned. Please do follow me on Twitter (@larueneuve) where I post daily nonsense about my very ordinary life.

Secondly, thank you to those who emailed me, commented and wrote on my Facebook wall, asking me to continue posting. Not gonna lie - it's nice to be missed. And yet, it was also nice to take a break. I didn't really have a reason for stopping; it just sort of happened. I'd plan outfits and then fail to get pictures. Or I'd go a week wearing only blanket-like, black layers. As any style blogger knows, winter is simply not conducive to style blogging. But today I woke up early and the sun chose to do the same. I also have this fabulous vintage Vivienne Westwood jacket that I have been dying to share. And let's face it, no one in my real life would appreciate it appropriately. So, here I am. Blogging again. And it feels good.

Jacket - Vintage Vivienne Westwood / Skirt - French Connection / Shoes - Steve Madden

I left off just before Thanksgiving intending to write a post about what I am grateful for. Let's just say that I have so much to be grateful for that it took me three and a half months to process it. That actually isn't far from the truth. Gratitude has been on my mind a lot lately. I read through my posts the other day and it struck me how much has changed in three short years. How many prayers have been answered. And I am so grateful to the Universe for listening.

Almost six years ago, I revealed to a counselor that I was profoundly unhappy with the person I had become. Her response was perhaps the most powerful thing anyone has ever said to me. She simply asked me who I wanted to be. Her point was that you will always be unhappy with where you are unless you have an idea of where you want to be. You must have something to work toward. Although my response that day was tainted with age-appropriate immaturity and naïveté, its core was this: I wanted to be confident and content. Who knew that six years later, my own prophecy would self-actualize.

I take credit for the things that I have achieved in my life. I am often told to thank supernatural beings - "God" - for success but let's face it, I put in the time, the effort and the tears. I can take credit for them. However, I would be lying to myself if I couldn't recognize that many prayers have been answered, that the coincidences in my life were far too coincidental to be anything other than designed. My hard work has made me confident and the Universe has graciously given me the gift of fulfillment.

Simply put, I am grateful for answered prayers and beautiful souls. Including all of you. Thanks so much for reading.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-22T18:34:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to my cousin, Lauren, for winning the fill-in-the-blank! There were a couple of people who got one or two wrong but came soooo close. Thanks to those who participated! Here are the correct answers.

1.) A trip to his hometown
2.) The Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear
3.) Computer
4.) All is well in the world.
5.) My final semester paper
6.) Lobby
7.) 10
8.) Over-the-knee socks
9.) 5 a.m.
10.) Black skinny pants

I hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving and I'll be sure to post what I'm thankful for in the next few days. Until then, happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy time spent with friends and family. And go ahead - have that second piece of pie. :) I'm so excited - it's officially the holidays!

Kimono - purchased from a boutique in Old Town Alexandria that resells items made from all over the world / Tee - Old Navy / Leggings - Hue / Boots - Kelsi Dagger / Necklace - no idea...

Fill in the Blank

2010-11-17T19:53:00.003-05:00

Hello, there!

I know, it's been a while. Truthfully, I've been blog-stalking all of my blogger friends to keep up with their fashionable lives but haven't had a chance to comment or blog myself. As a matter of fact, I only found the time to blog tonight because after three hours of reading about the effects of U.S. domestic policies and politics on international trade systems, I literally could not process another word.

However, because it has been a while and I didn't want to write another catch-everybody-up-on-my-life post, I thought I'd play a little game. I have created ten fill-in-the-blank sentences to describe the main events of the past couple of weeks. I won't post the answers until this weekend. So, leave your guesses in the comments and for the person who gets the most of them right will get a little holiday surprise in the mail from me! (Um, obviously those select few who I talk to every day and know all the gory details of my life - Caro, Mom, David, Sophie - you guys can't play.) Hint: those who follow me on Twitter probably have an advantage in this but, hey, you should be following me on Twitter too! (Also, not all of the blanks are just one word.)

Good luck!

1. Two weeks ago, I surprised my boyfriend with __________ for his birthday . We had so much fun and loved seeing everyone!
2. Three weeks ago, I went to the ______________ where I took pictures of every sign I saw!
3. Last week, my ___________ was infected, as was I. I was so sick!
4. My new favorite saying is, "All is well ____________ .
5. I had to cancel all of my weekend plans to work on ____________ .
6. On Sunday, I sort of had a very public meltdown in ________________ . It wasn't pretty but everyone gets to have their off-moments, right?
7. Starting on Friday, I have ______________ days of vacation. I am going to spent them with friends and family in a gorgeous historical mansion in West Virginia! So excited for the holidays!
8. I finally decided that ______________ only look good on model types, making them an impractical trend.
9. My new morning routine requires me to wake up at ___________ A.M. but I get a full workout in before my day even begins.
10. Last night, my boyfriend sent me on an impromptu shopping spree to buy _________ and I found a great pair.

Here's a recent look although my hair has lightened up a lot since this was taken. I'll take more look book pictures next week since there will be such scenic places to take them! Now, I'm off to catch up (and comment!) on all of your fabulous lives!

Jacket - Vintage Gerard for Renlyn / Jeans - Express / Tee - Gap / Necklace - Banana Republic / Heels - Zinc

A Roller Coaster of a Day

2010-10-25T18:10:00.005-04:00

Wow, it has been a long day and I am so glad it's over. I woke up this morning and my latest grade was posted for my class. I got a C. I know this sounds ridiculous but I don't get Cs. Even worse, this one C was going to make it impossible to make an A in the class. So, I looked over my paper and my professor's comments and realized that he made a mistake. I let him know and after hours of agonizing over my grade, he changed it to an A. I would so love to just chill tonight and soothe the strain today's stress caused to my body. Unfortunately, I have another paper to edit, laundry to do, dinner to make and research to complete. Thankfully I had a wonderful weekend! This is what I wore.

I wore this to a pumpkin patch and a winery with friends on Saturday.

Tee - Mossimo Target / Vest - F21 trench that I had tailored into a vest / Belt - Belladea in Columbia, South Carolina / Necklace - Laila Rowe / Boots - Kelsi Dagger
And I wore this to see my parents in Baltimore on Sunday.

Jacket - Vintage Rodebjer / Striped tank - Cheap Monday / White tank - Zara / Jeans - Express / Jewelry - Banana Republic, J. Crew / Shoes - Zara
How was your weekend and what did you wear?

The Old Me

2010-10-21T18:04:00.004-04:00

I just came across a few looks I hadn't shared yet. Now that my hair is so different, I thought I'd just post them all at once. I hope they provide a little inspiration before your weekend begins!

Hello, my name is Natasha.

2010-10-21T17:55:00.004-04:00

Tee - Old Navy / Skirt - Gianni Versace / Boots - Kelsi Dagger

So, what do you think? Personally, I LOVE the new hair! It's so refreshing! And makes such a statement compared to my previously very boring 'do. The general consensus (coworkers, friends and family) is that I look like a Russian spy. A few have even started calling me Natasha. But I'm owning it. After all, being a sexy Russian spy is all the rage, right? :) These are the new boots I have been obsessing over lately. I'm pretty obsessed and have worn nothing else since I purchased them last Friday. Sorry it took me a week to get you good pictures of the hair and boots but if you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you got a preview last Saturday!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend. Mine is going to include studying, picnics, a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carving and pumpkin bread, a really great chardonnay at a local winery and my new boots. I love fall!

P.S. I have a slew of really great outfits to share. I've been good about taking pictures recently but haven't had the time to upload them. Now that they're loaded, I'll start sharing them next week!

Hair Today. Gone Tomorrow.

2010-10-11T18:34:00.004-04:00

Yep, that's right, ladies (and perhaps a few gentlemen). I am getting my hair chopped off! I have been feeling icky lately and decided that I'm ready for a change. My appointment isn't until Friday night and Saturday I will be going wine tasting. So, hopefully on Sunday I'll have some good pictures of the new 'do and will be able to share it with you. I'm trying out a new stylist too - keep your fingers crossed that she does a good job! This week I'll try to put up the remaining pictures of my long hair.

Jacket - Skin Gear II (vintage/thrifted) / Pants - F21 /
Tee - Gap / Shoes - Michael Kors

“If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.” - de Lamartime

2010-09-21T14:14:00.007-04:00

Top - gift from Istanbul / Blazer - Vintage Roderger / Jeans - Express / Shoes - Boutique 9
Linda, my friend, former colleague and landlady, brought me this awesome graphic tee back from Turkey when she was there a few weeks ago. Obviously, I adore it not only because it's hot pink or because Linda gave it to me. But I vacationed in Turkey years ago and to this day, it is one of my top two favorite vacations ever. Turkey is a beautiful place with charming people and out-of-this-world food. I would give anything to go back but for now, this ridiculously cool tee will have to tide me over. Thank you, Linda!

The blazer is new-to-me from Mimi at www.BrookandLyn.com. She doesn't sell vintage clothes anymore but the vintage jewelry is amazing. Almost as amazing as the incredible pieces she has created herself. If anyone is wondering what to get me for Christmas, wonder no more. :)

All is right in the world.

2010-09-18T15:18:00.003-04:00

Jacket - thrifted / Pants - gift from my mom from Turkey / Shoes - Nine West
Taking a much needed break to just breathe. Live music playing on the television. Wrapped in a blanket with all the windows open. Sunshine and a cool breeze. Apple juice. Wedding blog research for a friend. Loving life.

Hope you are all enjoying your weekend as much as I am.

Everything will be alright in the end. If it's not alright, it's not the end.

2010-09-12T21:40:00.006-04:00

(Tunic - thrifted at Twig Thrift Shop in Old Town.
Label says Lachman. Made in Thailand.)
This is something my amazing yoga instructor told me the other day. Last week was really rough in every way imaginable. But somehow this gave me peace about everything. I hope it brings you peace too.

If you are looking for a yoga instructor in the D.C. area, Olivia Sheldon of Positive Energy Yoga works miracles on mind, body and soul. My yoga classes have become my favorite part of the week.

(Please remember to vote for me here or here. THANK YOU!)

Rock the Vote!

2010-09-12T21:16:00.004-04:00

If you have been following La Rue Neuve, you saw this look a while ago and know about the conversation that it instigated among my co-workers. Well, thankfully my co-workers don't know much about mixing patterns because this look is one of the four finalist looks in a contest hosted by one of my favorite local boutiques. You can check out TREAT's blog and vote for me here or you can "like" my picture on Facebook to vote too. I would really appreciate it and I promise - there are new looks coming soon. I just have to find the time and energy to upload them. It won't be tonight - I just wrapped up a non-stop 12-hour study session. Yuck.

Why, yes, I am wearing faux snakeskin leggings!

2010-09-02T13:36:00.004-04:00

I totally bought these leggings at H&M on a whim but I have gotten way more wear out of them than I ever thought I would. They are actually really versatile. And I think they will fall right in line with the upcoming trends this fall and winter.

Speaking of fall trends, may I just say that I am beyond excited about this season's upcoming trends! Velvet; capes; (even velvet capes!); wide-leg pants; fur galore; shearling jackets; and big, bulky knits! In my pre-seasonal wardrobe assessment, I came to the conclusion that I own too many dresses and skirts that I don't wear. So, here is a condensed version of my shopping list:
- Pants: either skinny or wide-leg. I am SO over regular tailored pants. Ick.
- Tops: basic, basic, basic. I'm over embellishment too. I just want great layering pieces.
- Jackets: in every shape and style. And as many as I can afford!
- Shoes: only flat boots. After one winter with my black combat boots, I am obsessed.
- Jewelry: the bigger, the better. And more silver - I've been so obsessed with gold for the past 3 years, my collection is seriously lacking in silver pieces.

So, now that you know what my shopping list looks like, spill. What are you looking forward to snatching up this fall and winter?

Pretty in Pink... and Purple, and Blue

2010-08-25T14:14:00.003-04:00

I thrifted this dress for less than $3.00. With Neiman Marcus tags, probably from the 80s, originally it was about 6 inches longer. One word: unflattering. So, thanks to my mama who chopped it off and made it pretty! Don't you just love the colors and geometric shapes?!

Sixperiment: Results

2010-08-18T17:18:00.003-04:00

No, it is not September 1. And yet, I still have decided to not continue the Sixperiment. I wore nothing but six pieces of clothing for two weeks and here is what I determined:

1. It definitely cuts down on the time I spend getting dressed in the morning. Unfortunately, because my options were so limited, I used that as an excuse to sleep in longer in the mornings and was still late to work a couple of times.

2. It wears out your clothing. My new DVF harem pants no longer look new, after just two weeks due to over-washing. This experiment just wasn't worth ruining my clothes.

3. To be truly creative with this, I would need an unlimited accessories collection. At first, the pile of accessories I set aside to make these six pieces appear drastically different from day to day looked so exciting. But after going through all of it after just the first week, it didn't seem like quite so much.

4. It's terribly boring. Yes, I enjoyed trying to make the six pieces look different. But after 5 days, I think I proved to myself that I could do it. Any longer than 5 days and it just got boring. I was depriving myself of my favorite part of the day: getting dressed. Instead of feeling inspired and creating new and interesting looks, I felt trapped. I was so bored that I wasn't even motivated to get good pictures of all of the looks.

So, here are my top 5.

I will just have to stick to the one time-saver that always works: setting aside 5-7 looks every Sunday night. Especially when school starts, I will really need to make this a priority. It just makes my closet seem so much more manageable in the morning. It also allows me plenty of time to get creative with my looks - using magazine clips, notes from things I've seen that week or new pieces that I've purchased.

And as far as the attempt to be more minimalist... Let's face it: my closet is my happy place. And everyone deserves a happy place, right?

More on the "Ground Zero Mosque"

2010-08-17T10:23:00.003-04:00

Eugene Robinson may be my hero for writing this:

"While the planned building would indeed house a place of worship, it is designed to be more of a community center along the lines of a YMCA. Plans include a fitness center, swimming pool, basketball court, bookstore, performing arts center and food court. Kebabs do not threaten our way of life."

(Read the full article here.)

I would argue that kebabs actually make our way of life better. :) Happy Tuesday, my friends. I'm off to find a kebab for lunch!

Muslim Friends and Christian Enemies?

2010-08-16T15:49:00.013-04:00

In California, a Tea Party Rally in protest of an Islamic Center in Temecula encouraged protestors to bring their dogs because "Muslims hate Jews, Christians, women and dogs."

"The fact is that America was founded, in part, with the intention of seeing this false religion destroyed." - Ron Parsley

"We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity." - Ann Coulter

"I tell you right now - the largest percentage of Americans would like to see a nuclear weapon dropped on a major Arab capital. They don't even care which one... I think these people need to be forcibly converted to Christianity. It's the only thing that can probably turn them into human beings." - Michael Savage

"They're the ones who are sick... They're the ones who are perverted. They are the ones who are dangerous. They are the ones who are subhuman." - Rush Limbaugh

These are recent quotes from Republican leaders, politicans and spokespeople on Muslims and their faith. If they don't make you cringe, maybe you are "subhuman."

I understand why some are opposed to the building of an Islamic cultural center near Ground Zero. I understand that we have not healed from the pain and the hurt. I even understand the Islamophobia that is rampant in post-9/11 America because of it. I understand it but I do not accept it and there is no excuse for it.

I do not, however, understand why conservatives are politicizing Islamophobia, essentially encouraging, feeding it for the sole purpose of picking up a few votes on their way to the midterms. It makes my skin crawl that these same people are those who speak incessantly of "family values." Is tolerance not a value? Does the first amendment simply not apply to Muslims?

This past weekend I rear-ended a young Muslim woman wearing a veil. The accident was entirely my fault and yet the first thing she said to me when we got out of our cars was that she wanted to remain polite and calm because she was fasting for Ramadan. Although visibly shaken, she graciously accepted my profuse apologies with a smile as we exchanged information. There was no real damage to our cars and she decided that it was best for us to just put it behind us. She could not have been more pleasant. I wished her a blessed Ramadan and we parted ways.

I picked up my mom and we still had time to make it to our yoga class. Mom asked if she could run in to Panera and grab a bottle of water. On the verge of tears from the stress of the accident and anxious to be in time for my much-needed yoga class, I asked the customers if she could just quickly grab a bottle of water. A middle-aged, middle-class caucasian man not only refused but snapped at me in the nastiest, most unnecessary way imaginable... This, of course, caused me to let go of those tears I had been holding back so desperately.

This man had no reason in the world to react the way he did. And yet he chose to shove negativity into the Universe. My Muslim friend had every reason in the world to be angry and yet she chose to be forgiving.

After yoga, I decided to follow her example and forgive the gentleman who had apparently never heard of graciousness. However, I found myself frustrated that those I just quoted were referencing for all intents and purposes the same young woman I met earlier. Do they not understand that the Islam she practices is not the same as the disturbed and distorted philosphies "Muslim" terrorists adhere to? How can they make such unfair generalizations? How can they be so narrow-minded?

Here is food for thought. The hatred that oozes from the quoted words above is no less evil than the hatred in the hearts of the terrorists who attacked the U.S. on 9/11.

The Sixperiment

2010-08-04T12:57:00.006-04:00

I am on a closet diet... Seriously. I was getting weighed down by my closet and frustrated with my need to "consume" more. So, I'm going on the Sixperiment diet. The idea is that you select 6 items of clothing or less (not including accessories) and wear nothing but those 6 items for an entire month. Yes, you read that right. I am going to try to wear the same six pieces for 31 days.

Of course, the obvious follow-up question is, "Why?" Well, for a number of reasons. First, I was late to work three mornings in a row simply because I couldn't find anything to wear. All of my clothes were clean and put in their proper place. And yet, I still stood in my walk-in staring blankly at the overwhelming selection of colors, prints, textures and shapes. So you see: in order to keep my job, I had to do this.

Secondly, one of the things I disliked about having a personal style blog is that you constantly feel the need to show something new. But let's face it. I'm just as broke as any other recently-graduated young adult starting his/her career. Shopping is a hobby. Purchasing is a luxury.

Finally - but most importantly - I love the creativity this challenge requires! I haven't worn the same exact outfit (from head to toe) in over two years. Not because I think it's a no-no but because I love getting creative with my clothes and finding new and wonderful ways to wear them. I plan on applying the same rule to this diet. Although my actual clothing is limited, the accessories and the ways the clothes are worn are limitless!

What did I choose? A black pair of DVF harem pants, a black Gap tee, a black tank from K-Mart, a black dress from Urban Outfitters and a navy blue thrifted Jones New York blazer that I had made into a vest.

I didn't dream this diet up. I've read about a lot about it online. Famously, Today's Jean Chatzky is on the closet diet. If a television personality can do it, I know you and I can! One woman in London claims that NO ONE noticed. Even after a month! Not even her husband... who apparently does the laundry in their family.

I am four days in. Days 1 and 2 were spent in my pajamas because I was sick at home. Days 3 and 4 were not that exciting, again because I was sick but this time at work. Stay tuned though because I will be posting pictures of all of my looks here. And if you feel like joining me and losing a few sartorial pounds, let me know!

Priorities

2010-08-04T12:09:00.002-04:00

Since my decision to make La Rue Neuve private stemmed from a reorganization of priorities, I thought it would be fitting for me to start there.

It's only been over the past couple of years that I have begun to recognize that I actually can't do it all, that I need boundaries. Go figure. It was easier to manage my priorities when I first moved to D.C. and my life consisted of eating, sleeping, work (which was not incredibly demanding), my relationship and blogging. I was getting almost ten hours of sleep a night, working from 9 to 6, blogging from 9 to 6 (*wink*), and coming home to a very yummy meal prepared by my boyfriend every evening. Yes, life was good but I was a bit bored. I wanted more. I laid out plan after plan, scores of to-do lists and personal goals. Two years later, I've added to this list a much more fulfilling but much more demanding job, graduate school, spiritual health as well as physical health - both of which are very time-consuming, many good friends and lately a lot of travel.

Of course, I still only have the same twenty-four hours in a day. And I am finding myself in a constant battle to figure out what comes first. I would love to go to a meditation class several nights a week but my workouts fall at the same time. I'm not willing to give up working out five to six days a week. That's non-negotiable. If I go at another time or on my only free evening, I feel as if I never see the person I have chosen to spend my life with. That hardly seems fair for him.

The other night we both sat down and laid out a schedule that worked for both of us. We set specific date nights every week and I get all the work outs that I need. Meditation classes just didn't fit. I could get up even earlier in the morning but sleep is lacking lately as well. In order to have time to study in the afternoons for school, I changed my work schedule and go in much earlier than I used to. Unfortunately I'm not getting to bed any earlier.

Please understand that I am not complaining. I recognize how lucky I am to have such a full and exciting life. But part of growing up is to learn how to prioritize. What do you do though when you don't know what should come first?

What are the things you refuse to let slide? Your morning yoga? Girls night once a week? And if you have any grand solutions or time-savers, please feel free to share.

La Rue Neuve

2010-07-19T10:44:00.003-04:00

La rue neuve is the main shopping district in Brussels, Belgium where I grew up. It was where I spent almost a decade shopping, hanging out with friends and developing my own style. I thought the name was fitting when I started blogging for the first time. Furthermore (and more importantly), la rue neuve literally translates to the new road or the new path. I started this project shortly after having graduated from college, experiencing all of the life changes that tend to follow this particular right of passage. I was unsure of the direction my career was taking and decided to take a chance on blogging. It was to become my new road, my new path – at least for a while.

The funny thing about roads is that they are rarely, if ever, straight. David and I just spent a few days in the mountains and those roads will unapologetically take a sharp turn when you least expect it. My life sometimes seems like those roads.

Many of you already know that I am starting graduate school in the fall and that I was promoted to a new position within my company a couple of months ago. In the ever-challenging effort to find balance in my life, blogging has unfortunately fallen toward the bottom of my list of priorities. I knew the road was beginning to turn but was unwilling to give it up along with the friends I have made. As fall quickly approaches, however, it’s time for me to face what’s just around the corner.

It is not time for me to stop blogging. But it is time for me to blog differently. For a while now, I have been wanting to blog in a way that is more representative of who I am as a whole individual. After all, I lead a full life and have a wide range of interests. Having been drawn into fashion blogging almost accidentally, I never stopped to figure out what I wanted out of blogging.

I want a place to express myself in the fullest way possible only to those who genuinely care. A picture book of my wardrobe available to friends, acquaintances, fellow bloggers and internet stalkers is simply not cutting it anymore.

So, if you are interested in continuing to see the occasionally wacky looks I come up with in addition to reading my rants on politics, matters of the heart, spiritual challenges, scholastic efforts and professional triumphs and frustrations, feel free to leave me your email address in the comments. (Feel free to email me as well.) Once I make La Rue Neuve private on August 1, I will add you to my list of approved readers and hopefully we can continue to get to know each other better. I am excited about this rue neuve. And for the many sharp turns I am certain to encounter in the future.

(***Note: If you have a gmail account, please send me that address. If you don’t, you will need to sign in as a guest every two weeks. I will still be on Twitter and will let you know when a new post has been published. Thanks!)

"Ballet is a sort of mystery to me. A mystery I don't wish to unravel."

2010-07-05T11:01:00.004-04:00

Jacket - thrifted, originally made in Hong Kong / Shirt - Banana Republic /
Linen pants - Gianni Bini / Jewelry - vintage / Sandals - Nine West

A friend of mine took me to the ballet at the Kennedy Center. I absolutely love the ballet and this one was no exception. However, I dislike how casually people dress when they attend such events. I wanted to strike a cultural, elegant but not overdressed look. This thrifted jacket was the perfect solution!

Namaste

2010-06-21T07:51:00.002-04:00

Scarf - Gift from a friend / Tunic - Urban Outfitters / Pants - J Crew / Jewelry - Ann Taylor Loft & French Connection / Sandals - Aldo

Viva Italia!

2010-06-12T18:55:00.005-04:00

This past Thursday, David and I went to a fundraiser for the Speech and Hearing portion of the local Children's Hospital. It was held at the home of the Italian ambassador. The home itself was exceptionally beautiful located on an equally impressive property. And the event was so much fun! Yummy drinks, even yummier food, a swing band and lots of pretty dresses - although I did feel like I had stepped into an episode of Real Housewives of D.C. :)

Dress - Jae Basilio / Shoes - Cathy Jean / Necklace - The Shoe Hive in Old Town
David got to go to the event last year but I was unable to. Several weeks ago I asked him what the dress code was and in typical boy fashion he responded, "I don't know. There were a few guys in khakis." Great. So, I asked him to get the opinion of a female friend of ours who went last year. A few days later he came back to me saying that Amy suggested wearing a dress with lilies on it... What?!?! It didn't take me long to decode the boy language and figure out that Amy was trying to give me the example of a Lily dress, as in Lily Pulitzer. Sundress. Got it. Except that I was unhappy with everything in my closet and by then it was two days before the event.

As usual, the Old Town Boutique District came to my rescue. I was the winner of this incredible gift basket including gift certificates and gifts from all of the local stores. At the last minute, I used the gift certificate from Treat, a local sample sale boutique, to purchase the dress in the pictures above. I love the way it drapes. The necklace was also one of the many beautiful things in the gift basket! (Thank you, OTBD! You guys are the best.) All in all, it was a spectacular event that raised money for a great cause. And I felt great in a fabulous dress!

For more information on the OTBD, check out their fabulous blog: Shop Local Alexandria.

P.S. For those of you who asked, my hair has lightened up a lot naturally. I'm loving the color and have a hair appointment next Saturday. Not sure what I'm going to do. Maybe a little more red?

Morning Glory

2010-06-02T17:43:00.003-04:00

Shirt - Mango / Skirt - French Connection / Belt - H&M / Wedges - Guess
The way the sunlight embraces me in that first picture perfectly reflects the way that I feel after a week in Miami. Glowing.

Some of you may not know that I used to live in Miami and still have family there. For the past decade or so, I have gone back at least once a year. Many times a girlfriend or two have come with me and I've been obligated to play tourist. This time I went with David and met up with his family, all of whom have been to Miami previously and weren't interested in seeing the sights. For the first time in a long time, I was able to simply enjoy the city, my way.

I feel about Miami the way many people feel about New York. I am in love. It is, in my opinion, the most beautiful city in the world and the energy literally makes me a better person. All of a sudden I become carefree and more natural - inside and out. I feel happier and more beautiful there. Even after all these years, it's still home.

I often claim to be going "home" when headed back to D.C. because I live there. I also call "home" wherever my parents happen to be living at any given time. But maybe home is more than four walls and a roof. Maybe it's even more than the people you love the most. Maybe, home is the city where you are the best version of yourself.

I am back in D.C. and back at work now. And after a 24-hour, post-vacation funk, the Miami effect still lingers. I just wonder how long it will last. Needless to say, I am already planning and scheming a way to make it back as quickly as possible.

(Some of you requested that I post pictures of my vacation but I think I prefer to keep those private. I have to set some boundaries, right?)

Back in Black

2010-05-11T14:42:00.008-04:00

Oh. Hello.

Top - Rachel Pally / Jacket, Belt and Shoes - Zara / Tights - Hue
I have been away for a while. And I am beginning to think this will become the norm. I don't think blogging will be a quotidian activity for me any longer. It is just too difficult to sustain with everything else going on. Speaking of everything else, I thought I'd give you a brief update on the ongoings of my oh-(not-)so-fascinating life. Here goes.

OUTFIT: I wore this months ago and never got around to posting it. David's sister was visiting and we went to see an accoustic guitarist perform. It was a casual venue but I still wanted to look like I was going "out." I haven't worn an asymmetrical hemline in a while but I was particularly fond of this top. I am trying to think of creative ways I can wear it in Miami in JUST TWO WEEKS!

WEEKEND: I just got back from visiting my family in South Carolina for Mothers' Day weekend. I had the most amazing time - time spent enjoying being with each other. We went boating on the lake, hiking, and ate lots of yummy food with friends. Even though I moved out of my parents' house six years ago, I really cherish the time we have together.

WORK: Work is awesome.

BOY: He picked me up at the airport Sunday night, hugged me and got in the car. The first thing out of his mouth was, "You smell different." Hmmm.

HEALTH: The whole vegan thing is going well. I have found a lot of vegan meals that I enjoy eating. Eating out is still posing problems and unfortunately I am not going to be able to avoid the doctor. Will be making an appointment to get some tests done sometime in the near future.

SCHOOL: My graduate program hasn't started yet but I am getting really excited about it. I've spent hours filling out all the necessary paperwork. Now I just have to get my deposit in. (If anyone is interested in making charitable donations, let me know. *grin*) And scholarhips. I need scholarships. But I have all summer to figure that out.

Speaking of...

SUMMER: There are so many awesome things going on. Weddings in South Carolina. Friends are coming to visit. Whitewater rafting with the parentals. Family vacay in the mountains. I'm getting super excited... If only we could make it to the beach just a few more times. I miss the beach.

STYLE: I have been embracing my inner-hippie lately. Basically I have been wearing the complete opposite of the look included in this post :) Think long skirts, faux turbans, serpent jewelry and peace signs - complete with slightly dirty hair... And sandals. Lots of flat, strappy sandals. But I think I want to glam it up for Miami... Thoughts? What would you wear in Miami?

This is why I love fashion

2010-04-28T21:53:00.006-04:00

Either you love this or you hate it. But dresses like this one are the reason I love fashion. I couldn't believe how lucky I was when I found it in a charity thrift shop in perfect condition and in my size.

Geoffrey Beene. Vintage.
Why don't we dress like this anymore?
Also, thank you SO much to each and every one of you for the tips and suggestions on eating vegan. I'm not going to lie - it hasn't been fun. I've tried making several meals that have completely bombed. And last night, David and I went for a walk and stopped in a Robeks for a smoothie - except I forgot to order one without yogurt. I realized after David paid for it and had to give it to him to drink. I am constantly craving crab rangoon. No idea why other than I can no longer have it and it's my favorite. And then I discovered that David was disappointed because he won't be able to make me any of my favorite meals - he actually was upset that he couldn't do that for me anymore! Way to make me feel bad...

But - and this is a big but - I haven't been sick once since I started and I am already starting to feel better. So, it's worth it. I will just have to stick to it until it gets easier. Anyway, I appreciate all the help. You guys are the best! Now if one of you could come visit and teach me how to cook, that would be awesome :)

Do vegetarians eat animal crackers? - Author Unknown

2010-04-26T17:02:00.004-04:00

Tunic - Kenneth Cole / Vest - Jones New York (thrifted and tailored from a jacket to a vest) -
Pants - F21 / Heels - Steve Madden
Sorry I have been MIA lately. Blogging is slowly falling on my list of priorities unfortunately. But more on that in a later blog post. Right now, I have more pressing matters to discuss. I may or may not have mentioned in a previous blog post that I went totally vegan several years ago. Have never felt better. No more mystery sicknesses. More sleep. More energy. More joie de vivre in general. But it was hard and I didn't like not being able to find anything vegan on the menu at my favorite restaurants.

Fastforward to this weekend. I spent the better part of three days getting sick after every meal. Unfortunately this is a semi-regular occurrence. Doctor's orders? No dairy. No greasy foods. No meat. "You have a delicate system." I have successfully ignored these orders for well over a year. But I can't do it anymore. I can't keep getting sick. So, I am returning to a vegan diet (plus fish).

I am putting all of this (rather embarrassing) information out there because I need to enlist your help. Do you know of any great vegan blogs? What's your favorite vegan recipe? Every vegan meal I have tried to make so far has been utterly bland and unexciting. So, any suggestions at all, please send them my way!

In other news, I have been trying to keep up with all of your blogs and tweets. How are you? Did everyone have a fabulous weekend?

Superdress

2010-04-15T10:09:00.007-04:00

May I brag a little? Just a little, I promise. Six months ago I would never have been able to fit into this dress. I have occasionally written about how hard I am working at "reshaping" my body. It wasn't a question of losing weight. (Okay, maybe a little weight...) But really I wanted to feel good, to have a strong body, and to not feel "blah" anymore.

I am about four solid months into it and - WOW - what a difference! I have managed to work out at least five days a week since I started. I have been eating healthier foods and drinking more water. Amazingly, however, I am much less obsessed about what I eat because I feel so much better. My muscles ache in the most incredible way. I have so much more energy. And for the first time in my life, my body shape is ACTUALLY changing. My hips are narrowing, my stomach doesn't pooch anymore and my shoulders and arms are stronger than they've ever been.

Dress - Noel Sophisticates New York (thrifted) / Shoes - Boutique Nine / Flowers (in hair) - H&M
Six months ago this dress would have been too big in the bust and stretched too tightly across my hips. And although I definitely have a lot more work to do, I felt amazing in it! (Especially since I thrifted it for under $10!)

I just want to say thank you to my readers and to those who have been so supportive. Thanks to my mom for always listening and sympathizing about my shin splints. And for being such a great, healthy role model! Thanks to David for letting me have the TV (and the living room) to do my aerobics routines and for paying for my zumba classes! Thanks to the ladies at work for introducing me to Zumba! Thanks to Cathy for taking me to the free yoga class in Clarendon. Thanks to Paul at our front desk for always telling me what a great job I am doing when I am on my way to the gym. Thanks to Megan for being my inspiration. (And thanks to my brother for leaving me Asian Takeout voicemails to keep me laughing and working my abs. - this was added at my brother's request.)

Four months ago, I felt disgusting. But this process is teaching me to love my body. And I am well on my way. Instead of being daunting, living a healthy lifestyle seems increasingly feasible. I never thought I would say (write) that.

Goodbye, Winter

2010-04-10T21:04:00.003-04:00

I am not mourning the loss of winter. It didn't treat me very well this year and after all, it will be back in just a few short months. I am, however, mourning the lack of necessity for my furs - real and faux. So, on what was hopefully the last "cold" day of the year, I decided to pull out my favorite fur vest. It will be missed but whether fur vests are on trend again this coming winter or not, I will pull it out and wear it proudly!

Shirt - French Connection / Jeans - Banana Republic / Vest - Rachel Roy / Jewelry - French Connection, various markets and gifts

And this is totally off topic but I felt very "Rachel Zoe" in this look. N'est-ce pas?

(Sorry for the pouty face. I wasn't feeling very photogenic while taking these.)

Suited Up

2010-04-10T20:37:00.006-04:00

We had a very important client come into work last week. When this happens, we are asked to "dress appropriately" which essentially means "wear a suit." Let it be known that I hate suits. I think it's ridiculous that the most masculine thing we could possibly wear is the only thing considered sufficiently professional in these kinds of situations. Nonetheless I am grateful for a good job and do as I am asked. So, this is what I wore. The blouse and skirt are part of a vintage suit that was my mom's in the eighties. I decided to bring it into the twenty-first century with this consigned Elie Tahari jacket.

Blouse and skirt - vintage / Jacket - Elie Tahari (consigned) /
Shoes - Nine West / Earrings - gift from my mom from a trip to Senegal

What are your feelings toward suits?

Story Telling

2010-04-10T20:19:00.006-04:00

This is how I love to dress. Which is funny because as soon as I put this look together I thought of my mom. It reminded me of something I would have seen her wear growing up. Every look she wore told a story. Every look was real. Every look was her.

Dress - Nordstrom (thrifted) / Necklaces - various markets and Laila Rowe /
Shoes - Aldo / Bracelet - Christmas gift from David
I thrifted this dress for about ten dollars. Originally from Nordstrom and still had the tags on it when I found it. It's a blank canvas. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by my clothes, they actually prohibit me from telling my story. Whatever it happens to be on any given day. But not when I wore this. This was just so effortlessly me.

Urban Hippie

2010-04-09T09:37:00.001-04:00

Dres and Jacket - Zara / Boots - Nine West

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

SUNSHINE

2010-04-07T08:24:00.001-04:00

Shirt - Urban Outfitters / Necklace - art fair in Columbia, SC / Jeans - Express / Shoes - Bakers

It is 90 degrees outside. 'Nough said.

Rejuvenation

2010-04-05T16:32:00.006-04:00

Skirt - vintage, given to me by my mom / Shirt - French Connection /
Shoes - Bandolino / Jewelry - all given to me by my awesome cousin!
I have been processing this post since Friday night and had full intentions of getting it up yesterday. Clearly, that didn't happen. I still want to share this with you because as my time becomes increasingly consumed by school and work, I will need this blog to be more personal. I need it to become a place I can be honest about who I am - which is obviously more than just "fashion." So, to those of you who are reading this and expecting it to be about clothes or style, I apologize. Catch me at a later date.

I am not a religious person to the frustration of my parents and many others. However, I am deeply spiritual. Keeping that in mind, I was trying to come up with a way to celebrate the spirit of Easter and Passover without celebrating the holiday itself. Friday night, David and I joined a bunch of friends for fish 'n' chips and egg dying. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves - it was so good to just enjoy each other's company and laughter. After dinner, our hostess asked us to partake in a tradition she has observed for several (many?) years. As we all sat around a table, we each were asked to mention something that we wanted to let go of this coming year. After that, we each blew out a candle to symbolize this release. Heather, our hostess and a good friend, described the spirit of the holiday as being one of rejuvenation - a word that has stuck with me since then.

Although I did not go into specifics that night, I decided to let go of pain that I have held onto for years. Pain that has sadly become a part of who I am, a part I am willing and ready to let go. Each and every one of us, religious or not, has something holding them back, weighing them down. Sometimes symbolizing that release by admitting to it and blowing out a candle is the first step toward letting go.

All weekend, I kept turning this idea over and over in my mind. I recalled a lesson I learned while living in Brussels. (I actually wrote a song about it.) The lesson is that sometimes to let go of something, you have to give it away. I decided on Sunday morning to sit out on my balcony and meditate on it. Every inhale, I focused on my breath. Every exhale, I simply thought, "Release." The physical act of breathing out into the Universe what has been a burden for so long was healing. I continued this practice during my yoga class later that night, literally making every part of my body participate in releasing this pain.

My point is that sometimes the first step in moving past something is to give it to the Universe, to exchange the negative energy for positive energy. In the spirit of rejuvenation, I challenge you to think about what is holding you back and then to simply release it whether you pray, meditate or simply say it aloud. Trust me, it is freeing. Obviously this isn't a miraculous exercise. The process has only just begun but I suggest that you and I both use this method anytime we find ourselves obsessing over the pain that is keeping us from growing into better, more balanced beings.

Alright, enough of my kooky banter. Thanks for humoring me. I hope all of you are enjoying your week!

Where to Shop this Weekend: Current Boutique in Old Town, Alexandria and Clarendon, VA

2010-03-31T14:23:00.015-04:00

I was unable to attend the grand opening of Current Boutique's second location in Old Town. So, I decided to head that way during my lunch break one particularly beautiful afternoon. Expecting a "copy-paste" version of the other quaint (read: small) boutiques in the area, I was pleasantly surprised when I entered and found myself in a very atypically large room with high ceilings and big storefront windows. Surprise number 2: the large room was FULL of merchandise. Current Boutique has by far the largest selection of merchandise I have come across in the area. What a great first impression!

(Pictures provided by Current Boutique.)
If you are looking for it, you will find it at Current. Ikat print is everywhere right now. Guess what? It's at Current too. And hasn't everyone dreamed of a custom-made fur coat from Hong Kong? Okay, maybe not everyone but I certainly have! That same day I was feeling a little out of sorts, however. So, my money was spent on several shapeless black dresses and a Marc Jacobs hoodie. Some people indulge in comfort food. I indulge in comfort clothes. Current Boutique obliged.

When I popped in with my best friend to get these pictures a few weeks later, she purchased this adorable plaid top and the layered silver necklace on the right. Speaking of Current's jewelry, all of it is handpicked and made by local designers. Just another great way to support your local economy!

Carmen, the owner of Current Boutique, "is very active in the DC fashion community participating in organizations and functions like DC Fashionistas and Crystal Couture. Carmen and Current Boutique have also given back to the local community by donating literally thousands of dollars worth of clothing and accessories to Goodwill, Covenant House, the Woman's Junior League and numerous local schools. Carmen and Current Boutique have also actively supported Fashion Fights Poverty and the scholarship fund of the DC Fashionistas group, a competitive award for aspiring young designers."

(The ladies of Current Boutique. Picture provided by Current Boutique.)
All in all, my experiences with Current have been nothing but positive. Consignment shopping isn't always convenient when you are shopping for a specific item. However, I would come close to guaranteeing that, considering the incredible selection and quality of the merchandise at Current, you will find what you need (or want) every single time.

If for no other reason, you should stop by to admire this Badgley Mischka stunner. And in my own humble opinion, the blue embroidered dress would be pretty perfect for wandering around the tidal basin and checking out the cherry blossoms this weekend!

Me: What are you three wardrobe must-haves?
Carmen: Accessories! A fantastic clutch, a bold cocktail ring and nude pumps!
If you or someone you know is interested in consigning with Current Boutique, there is no need to make an appointment. Simply drop by with in-season clothing only and the talented staff will be on hand to help. The seasons are as follows: Fall: August 15 – October 15; Winter: October 15 – February 15; Spring: February 15 – May 15; Summer: May 15 – August 15.

Zumba!

2010-03-30T17:38:00.004-04:00

Pants - Express / Jacket - Vintage / Shirt - Banana Republic / Shoes - DSW (don't remember the brand)
I went to my first Zumba class last night with a few girlfriends from work. And I LOVED it! (Obviously the outfit above is not what I wore to class...) Here is the video advertisement to the class I attended. It is only $5 and free for first-timers. Definitely check it out if you are in the area. Or find one near you - they are apparently everywhere. It's a great work out but even better, it's like a huge dance party! Plus, I really like saying the word... Zumbaaaaa!

Happy Friday-eve, everyone!

Words cannot express...

2010-03-29T13:56:00.007-04:00

how much I love this jacket.

Jacket - Marc Jacobs (purchased at Diva) / Pants - Unknown (hand-me-down from my mom) /
Tee - Zara / Shoes - Nine West

Compassion and Fashion

2010-03-29T13:26:00.007-04:00

First, thank you to all of you for the super sweets comments and congratulations yesterday. A number of my readers have been surprised when they realized that my scholastic/professional interests are not in fashion. I majored in International Relations and French Literature in college. And as I mentioned yesterday, I will be getting my masters in diplomacy. My parents gave me the incredible gift of travel growing up. I really only moved to the States when I started college. Traveling has affected every part of me and reflecting that - in my studies and in my style - is so important.

Indian salwar kameez / Miscellaneous bracelets - French Connection and Forever 21 / Snake bracelet - vintage Whiting and Davis / Earrings - Charlotte Russe
I have a growing collection of traditional clothing from all around the world. This piece was purchased for me in India and I actually wore it to work the other day. I love people's reactions when they see a very "white" girl wearing a headdress, for example. But no matter how "white" I am, I care deeply for the fate of the international community.

I think it's so important for others to realize that just because someone is interested in fashion doesn't mean he/she is superficial. I was so proud of the fashion community for pulling together in support of the inhabitants of Haiti after the disaster. It's proof that finding beauty and art in fashion doesn't exclude awareness of suffering and a desire to eliminate it.

Thank You, Universe.

2010-03-28T20:11:00.004-04:00

Shirt - Laundry (purchased at Diva in Old Town, Alexandria - seen here) / Pants - Zara / Sandals - Aldo / Necklace - J Crew
If you have been following La Rue Neuve for any significant length of time, you know that my post-college life didn't exactly go as planned. I worked my butt off all four years of school and graduated with honors. I decided to postpone grad school and to move to D.C. in order to take my dream job working on Capitol Hill. Unfortunately my "dream job" ended up being my worst nightmare. After nine months, I essentially took a demotion in order to work in a much more positive environment, a company where I was valued as an employee but where the work was less than stimulating.

I was good at school. I assumed that I would be just as good at being an adult, just as successful. Two years later, however, I found myself happy but frustrated by my apparent lack of success, especially after having worked so hard. Well, my dear readers, the Universe was listening and finally my hard work has paid off.

I am a planner. And over the past two years, I have regularly tried to determine what the next steps needed to be. At one point that meant looking for a new job. When I began working for my current company, the next step was to prove to everyone that I could do more and to become an asset to the company. About a month ago, I knew it was time to reassess everything once more. I had essentially been told that I wasn't going to get the promotion I had been working toward. Coming out of the recession, they just didn't have the money to get the position approved. So, one night as I was getting ready for bed, I decided I would do whatever it took to go back to school. The next day, I found exactly what I was looking for: I was going to apply for the online Masters of Diplomacy (Conflict Resolution) program at Norwich University. I was going to do whatever it took to get in. After a lengthy conversation with an admissions counselor, I discovered I had only two weeks until the application deadline. I wrote the required essays, secured my letters of recommendation, and filled out all the paperwork.

Once the application was sent in, I waited. I needed this in the worst way. I waited until one Friday afternoon my boyfriend called me to tell me that I had received a letter from Norwich University. I had been accepted. It was as if a physical weight had been lifted from my shoulders and the permanent knot in my stomach had been untied. I finally had something to look forward to, to work toward.

However, the Universe wasn't done. That very same afternoon I was told that they were writing a job description for the exact position I had been pining for and that I could interview for it the following Monday. I spent my whole weekend excited (about grad school) and nervous (about the interviews). I was an emotional basket case. Yet, Monday morning came along and somehow I felt at peace. I already had grad school. If the job didn't work out, I was going to be okay.

But it did work out. I got the job. After two years of feeling as if I was wandering aimlessly, it all came together. Don't get me wrong. I am completely aware that this job will require a lot of hard work but I am genuinely excited about that - finally a challenge! And come September, when I start classes, I will have to become a master of time management. In all of this, I am reminded of my favorite quote (from Elle Woods in Legally Blonde): Trust me, I can handle anything.

In addition to being grateful to the Universe for bringing all of this my way, I am equally grateful to my readers. I started this blog when I was quickly losing hope, miserable in my job on the Hill. It has kept me going the past two years, giving me something to sink my creative energy into, a way to connect with like-minded and inspiring women, and something to look forward to every day. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure how I will find time for blogging in addition to school and more responsibilities at work. I will figure that out when the time comes. For now, I am simply grateful. And ridiculously excited!

...Pardon the interruption in regular programming...

2010-03-21T20:52:00.004-04:00

Life is happening. So, blogging must wait. But hopefully I will be able to
tell you all about these big mysterious decisions VERY soon!

Where to Shop this Weekend: Diva in Old Town, Alexandria

2010-03-18T09:53:00.010-04:00

If you know me, you have probably heard me occasionally refer to my happy places. My mood is very influenced by my environment. So, over the years, I have accumulated a small number of happy places: places where I feel at ease, at home, where everything around me is appealing, and where the people are friendly and welcoming. Places that just make me happy. Diva, a consignment boutique in Old Town, is one of my happy places.

As you walk in, you enter a world where you are allowed to be as girly as you want to be. The decor alone is enough to keep you coming back - I always leave with fun design ideas. But let's face it: you are really there to shop. And the award-winning Diva does not disappoint.

In the owner's own words, "Diva offers a great selection of unique pieces by designers whose fashions are found at upscale department stores—but for a lot less money! We also have a terrific stock of new, on-trend and reasonably priced jewelry.” I have to add that Diva’s selection of accessories is mind-blowing! Jewelry, shoes, vintage hats, and scarves are in abundance and always at great prices. I have my heart set on the pair of Marni flats in the picture below.

Many of my very favorite pieces have come from Diva, including my Marciano fur vest, my vintage harem pants (love!), and my cherished Marc Jacobs jacket. Most of my pieces have come from the bargain basement. If Diva is my happy place, it's bargain basement is paradise. I got my harem pants there for $12. And this St. John's jacket for just over $20. It takes a little bit more digging but the hunt is part of the fun, right? Last time I was there, I found a Versace high-waisted leather skirt. That day everything in the basement was an additional 70% off. And I scored the skirt for $36. Versace. Leather. $36. Now you know why I love this place.

Tunic - Zara / Skirt - Versace (via Diva) / Shoes - Boutique Nine / Necklace - Laila Rowe
As if this place isn't magical enough, the owner, Cindy, is one of my favorite people ever. She describes her personal style as being "classic but always with a unique twist." Diva is so clearly a reflection of her exuberant personality and getting to know her has become a highlight of shopping there. She started Diva after working "as a corporate cosmetic executive in companies such as Estee Lauder, Calvin Klein, and Elizabeth Arden... Working in the corporate world for years, I grew very tired of all of the bureaucracy, the stifling of creativity and the wheel-spinning that goes on. I feel extremely blessed to now be doing something creative, in my own way, without consulting a million layers of management."

Me: What are your three wardrobe must-haves?
Cindy: Wolford black tights, an amazing little black dress, and confidence in your own style.
I actually learned something about Diva when writing this post. Although it doesn’t surprise me in the least, I was unaware up until this point that Diva was so involved in supporting women’s issues. "We do a lot of charity and women’s awareness–based promotions—one example is our work with the City’s Office on Women during each April, which is Sexual Abuse Awareness Month. Victims of domestic abuse express themselves by creating t-shirts about their situations. It’s called the Clothesline Project, and we have been displaying the shirts in our window each year we have been in business to promote awareness. Some of the other things we have done are a charity auction for the organization Friends of Homeless Animals and a “Go Red for Women” heart disease awareness program." I hope to be able to collaborate with Cindy and Diva on these projects in the future. What a great way to combine affordable fashion and giving back to the community!

I could write for days about how much I adore Diva and why you should shop there. The weather forecast for this weekend in Old Town is so uplifting - nothing but blue skies! So, do yourself a favor. Wander around Old Town one afternoon and stop by Diva. Maybe it will become one of your happy places too.

A Generous Spirit

2010-03-17T17:26:00.008-04:00

This dress is yet another piece given to me by Elle, the fabulous blogger at Wonderfelle. So, although I have more pieces to showcase from her, I wanted to use this post as my official "thank you" for all of the clothes she generously sent my way. I haven't had an "I don't know what to wear!" moment in weeks thanks to her and her fabulous hand-me-downs.

Dress - Zara (from Elle) / Shoes - Nine West /
Thank you, lady! You are the best!
Stay tuned tomorrow for another great "Where to Shop this Weekend" post!
Trust me, you aren't going to want to miss this one!

Hitched

2010-03-16T13:56:00.005-04:00

Read on. It's not what you think.

Jacket - Zara / Tee - Urban Outfitters / Pants - Banana Republic (gift from Elle) / Shoes - Sam Edelman
Do you remember what Eva Mendes is wearing in one of the first scenes of the movie Hitch? The scene where she shows up for work and the movie establishes that she's a bit of a workaholic? You don't? Well, I do and the image of her wearing that graphic tee and perfectly tailored suit has become part of my fashion subconscious, a collection of twenty-four years worth of images from which I unknowingly (or, in this case, knowingly) draw inspiration. Every time I see that movie (and considering how many times a year it comes on TBS, that's a lot), I think, "Wow, I want to look like that." The combination of the suit with the relaxed tee is sexy yet powerful, youthful yet authoritative. Although my version here is definitely not up to par with Eva's, it's a step in that direction and I felt great in it all day!

In other news... the sun was out all day yesterday and I took a long lunch just to enjoy it a little while longer. It did me a world of good! Now if I could get about a hundred more days like it, I'll be all caught up!

And yes, I am posing with my Diet Coke. It's unfair that it plays such an important part in my life and yet is rarely featured on LRN. Most people are mostly made up of water. I am full of carbonation and aspartame. One day I will kick this habit, I swear.

"You light up my life..."

2010-03-15T17:43:00.004-04:00

I have been beyond stressed lately. Big decisions always stress me out and I have had a lot of them to make. Add to that, a super long, dreary, awful winter and you have a very frazzled Christen with a twitching eye and a need for sunshine beyond any need ever experienced before. Do I sound like a broken record? Mysterious big decisions. Need sunshine. Mysterious big decisions. Need sunshine. Mysterious big decisions. You get the point. I feel like that's all I talk about anymore. But that's what best reflects my daily reality.

This weekend, however, I was saved. I was saved from obsessing over mysterious, big decisions. And I was saved from drowning in the incessant rain over the past three days. Meet my savior:

Caroline: Dress - Karlie / Boots - Aldo
Me: Dress - Urban Outfitters / Boots - Nine West / Jacket - Zara
My best friend from college flew up for the weekend. It was EXACTLY what I needed. Plenty of girl talk, shopping, dinner parties, lots of yummy food and many hugs. I'm not a very touchy-feely person but I'm pretty certain I physically latched onto Caroline several times this weekend for fear that she would disappear.

And now, after a fabulous weekend, I am back to bitching about the cold rain and to worrying about mysterious big decisions. But life is a little brighter in general because of a friend. And for that, I am grateful.

P.S. I hate complaining on LRN because I don't want people to think I do nothing but that. I am fully aware of how awesome my life is. I am just feeling a bit overwhelmed with everything lately. I probably just need some Vitamin D.

Just another manic Monday

2010-03-15T11:15:00.006-04:00

I had a fabulous weekend and can't wait to tell you all about it. However, work is nuts this morning
and I have a lot on my plate today. It will just have to wait until tomorrow. In the meantime, here is what
I wore on Friday. Loving the acid-wash jeans, straight from the 90s!

Shirt and vest - Zara / Jeans - thrifted (originally from the mid-90s) /
Flats - Cathy Jean / Necklace - Banana Republic / Earrings - Laila Rowe

Dreaming of Sunshine

2010-03-09T17:11:00.006-05:00

Spring is teasing me. We had three glorious days in a row starting on Sunday.
And now it is raining. And gray. And generally gloomy.

Dress - LaRok (purchased at Mint Condition) / Leggings - F21 / Heels - Nine West / Fur - Marciano

I found this dress while preparing for this article at Mint Condition. I had to have it and went back a couple of days later to snatch it up and bring it home. This is how I wore it for the first time, on a very similarly gloomy day. Unfortunately all I could think about was how I wanted to wear it. I could just envision myself after a beautiful day shopping at South Beach, tanned, wavy hair, bare legs and pretty sandals - a perfect set up for this soft, metallic, slinky dress. So, whether I like this look or not is irrelevant because it's not how I am dying to wear this dress! Definitely bringing it to Miami with me in May! The dress deserves a second chance.

Sweats and Stilettos

2010-03-09T17:03:00.006-05:00

Okay. They aren't really stilettos but it just sounded better that way. Several weeks ago, the higher-ups in my company decided that to boost morale we would have a "wear sweats to work" day. This would have been a great idea... except for the fact that I don't own sweats. I own work-out clothes and I own pajama pants. I don't own or wear sweats. And let's face it, even if I did own sweats, I still probably wouldn't have worn them to work. I'm just not a sweats type of person. So, instead I decided to wear my American Apparel sweatshirt (that counts, right?) with leggings and heels.

Sweater - American Apparel / Leggings - Anthropologie / Heels - Nine West /
Scarf - Gift from my parents from Morocco (well, a gift from them to David but I steal it from time to time...)

What do you think of the result? What would you have worn in my situation?

Playin' Around

2010-03-09T08:59:00.004-05:00

This hasn't been worn anywhere... yet.
I just came across the combination while playing around in my closet one day.

Dress - Charlotte Russe / Jacket - LaRok / Hat - H&M / Shoes - Nine West

Where would you wear this?

Just Me

2010-03-06T20:59:00.004-05:00

This is going to be a very exciting week for me. Again, all of it might fall through so I am keeping the details to myself. But some confidence and good luck vibes from you all would be really appreciated!

My weekend went pretty well. David had dental surgery on Saturday morning so I spent most of it taking care of him. The rest included:
- blog stuff
- working toward my goals (so mysterious, I know!)
- sushi (yum-O!)
- a great book (The Sparrow, definitely recommend it)
- bikram yoga, regular yoga and lots of gym time (I had to make up for a week of being very bad)

Top - purchased in Bali / Jeans - Expressed / Scarf - gift (unknown) / Necklace - Eastern Market in D.C. / Bracelets - gifts and French Connection / Shoes - Steve Madden / Earrings - purchased at art fair in Columbia, SC

This is what I wore on Friday. This look is so "me." A little glam, a little ethnic, a little urban. I had this kebaya made in Bali my senior year of high school. Traditionally, it should be worn with a batik. Mine is gorgeous and I definitely wear the two together. But for casual Friday at work, I really loved it with the jeans. I love how unique it is. It frustrates me to no end when I see hundreds of girls dressed exactly alike. I don't run the risk of being one of them in this!

Hope you all have a fabulous Monday!

Where to Shop this Weekend: Shop It To Me

2010-03-05T09:39:00.001-05:00

I am often asked how I score such good deals. And my answer is always the same: shop smart and shop often. A good shopper knows how much clothes are actually worth, how much she wants to spend and always knows what is on sale in her favorite shops. This can be very time-consuming and takes a lot of dedication. Shopping online has made this both easier and more difficult. You now don't have to go anywhere at all to shop. But the vast number of shopping websites available to us can be really overwhelming. How in the world are you supposed to keep up with it all? Don't you wish there was someone to do it for you?

You're in luck - there is. Shop It To Me is a genius service - all you do is sign up. List the brands and stores you love, your sizes and how often you would like to hear from them. (You can always edit this later.) Then you will habitually receive an email tailored to your exact specifications including all of the sale items in your size from the designers you handpicked.

Every morning I sit down with my Diet Coke and open up my inbox. There are always a few blog comments to validate. I delete the Facebook notifications and quickly read the emails from my friends to which I will respond later. Then comes one of my very favorite moments of day: the email I have been anticipating since I woke up this morning. Shop It To Me has good news - more clothes are on sale! Most days I find about a dozen pieces I would love to own. I admire them (and their price), dream about how I would style them up and where I would wear them. I finally click out of the email and feel a little better prepared for the day ahead. But every now and then I come across a spectacular piece (like this Ella Moss top) at a price I just can't ignore, a sale I would certainly not have stumbled across any other way. That's the beauty of Shop It To Me.

Even better? You can follow SITM's blog which often features even more deals, other bloggers, and includes great shopping advice and style tips. For endless inspiration, check out all of SITM's trendsetters here. I was just honored by becoming one of them! Interested in becoming a trendsetter yourself? Don't hesitate to get in touch with their incredibly helpful and responsive staff.

I have never had a bad experience with SITM - as a customer or as one of their trendsetters. I really believe that a good service is useless if it is not accompanied by great customer service. SITM has established both. So, Happy Shopping!

Numb

2010-03-04T07:58:00.003-05:00

A close friend of the family passed away last night.
Honestly? I am not okay. I will be but I'm not right now.

Update: I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who expressed
your condolences. It means the world to me.

Ramblings of a Wednesday Morning

2010-03-03T10:44:00.008-05:00

- I didn't have the time to put together a post for today. So, you are left with the randomness that are my thoughts.

- David's sister has been here since Saturday. We had a blast. A friend's departure always leaves me with mixed feelings. Sadness that they are no longer here and relief that I can return to my normal routine. I need a routine. I don't do well with even the smallest changes in my day. Weird. I know.

- I'm wearing head-to-toe gray today and I love it. Pictures will be up next week.

- A florist just walked into our office and gave me a rose in a pretty vase. It was purely for promotional purposes but I still think it was sweet.

- I've been meaning to thank my readers who commented for the first time last Thursday (on the mixed prints look). I really love getting to know my readers. So, if you have a blog or are on Twitter, please let me know. Or just shoot me an email!

- Pizza Party at work today. In 67 minutes. Yes.

- I've been really bad at commenting on other blogs this week. Will catch up this weekend, I promise.

- Went to see Andy McKee live last night. Seriously life-changing. Check him out here.

- I have a goal I am working toward. I have only told a very small handful of people about it. I'm worried it will fall through and that I'll have to answer a bazillion question about it. Do you ever withhold information from your friends and acquaintances because you don't know how it will all turn out?

- Confession: I got the idea for this post from Kyla of Blue Collar Catwalk.

Simplicity

2010-03-02T09:03:00.005-05:00

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. - DaVinci

Tunic - Kenneth Cole / Boots - Nine West

Good to be a Girl

2010-03-01T09:59:00.003-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Elle from Wonderfelle let me pick through the pile of clothes she was getting ready to send to Goodwill after her move. We are similar in size and she has amazing style, so needless to say, I was beyond excited. What's great about sharing clothes with your friends - something I have always tried to do - is that you acquire pieces that you may not have originally purchased for yourself. This dress is a perfect example.

Dress - F21 / Bracelet - J Crew / Boots - Nine West
I wouldn't necessarily describe my style as girlie. Urban, yes. Trendy, definitely. Even ethnic-inspired at times. But I rarely gravitate toward really girlie items. But as soon as I saw this dress on a hanger in Elle's living room, I fell in love with the ruffles, the polka-dots, the constant movement of the dress. When I wore it to work the first time, I felt so pretty all day. Unabashedly feminine. I might have to find a way to work more ruffles and polka-dots into my wardrobe now! So, thank you, Elle for this piece and all the other fabulous pieces you passed down to me! You're the best!

Where to Shop this Weekend: Mint Condition in Old Town, Alexandria

2010-02-26T06:42:00.003-05:00

Welcome, readers, to a new feature on La Rue Neuve. Every Friday I will write about a physical or virtual store. The idea stemmed from a desire to both support all of the local boutiques I shop at regularly and to divulge my online shopping secrets. After receiving a number of emails from local readers inquiring about where I shop in Old Town, I decided that would be a great place to start.

Mint Condition is a fairly new addition to my Old Town faves but it has quickly jumped to the top of the list. Upon entering you will be greeted warmly by the owner, Toni Henderson, who describes her own personal style as being "a mix of trendy and classic (juxtaposed), feminine, and fun," or one of her equally cheerful and stylish employees. They are always willing to help you find exactly what you're looking for and answer any of your questions.

Mint Condition is located in a charming historic building, an ideal backdrop for an impressive selection of designer and mall-brand clothing at insanely low prices. The perfectly spaced hangers displaying garments grouped first by type, then by size, then by color are both functional and appealing to the eye. Jeffrey Campbell ankle boots at half price? A perfectly worn-in Chloe bag? A comfy chic H&M black sweater dress? Yep, you can find them all at Mint Condition. And if you're willing to take a risk, wait a few more weeks and if it's still there the price will drop another 50%.

The motivation behind Mint Condition stems from Toni's understanding that many stylish young women are on a budget. "We are all money conscious these days, and shopping here allows you to stretch your dollars and look like a million bucks." Need another reason to shop here? "Consignment is also a very green concept. Recycling clothing is a great way to make some extra cash and wardrobe other smart and stylish recessionistas in the process. At Mint you will find the best selection of current brands and styles (DVF, Milly, J. Crew, Trina Turk, 7 F.A.M.K, so many more) all in great (mint!) condition. Mint’s mission is to provide an affordable and enjoyable shopping experience where you know you will find top brand, top quality items in a charming boutique atmosphere. Green, affordable, friendly and on-trend - It’s the best of all shopping worlds!"

The best of all shopping worlds, indeed. I have purchased a number of designer pieces (see below) at Mint Condition that I would never have been able to even consider owning at the original price.

The dress (Urban Outfitters) and fur (vintage)both came from Mint Condition.

The sequined Alice + Olivia top was a favorite among readers - I got it for a steal!
And this Elie Tahari jacket has been a wardrobe staple for me!
As I mentioned previously, one of my goals is to encourage my readers to shop locally. When you get to know the people who work and live in your area, you begin to appreciate what they do and the hard work they put into providing their customers with quality merchandise. Toni is just such a person. As if being so successful at such a young age weren't enough, she proved everyone wrong by taking a leap of faith at a time when doing so wasn't recommended:

"I like to think I have been a pretty stylish bargain shopper all my life. My dad says I have been in the business since I was in diapers because I grew up helping out at my mom's consignment store, Nu Look, in Minneapolis, MN. She has been in the business for almost 30 years. I acquired unimaginable amounts of knowledge through working at her store and simply just by being her daughter (before and after I decided to take this on). When I moved to Washington, DC after college in Charleston, SC, I worked at a great law firm in the marketing department for almost three years. It was a wonderful first job and I learned so much. Even though I loved my job and the people I worked with, somewhere I decided the corporate world was not for me. I had been playing with the idea of one day owning my own designer boutique for a while in my head. In the fall/winter of 2008 my mom and I were talking about how I could do it (mind you this is in the throws of the economic collapse). I had done research and loans were about as hard to get as a job. It seems strange to think that I had never thought of it before... why not open a trendy, high-end label CONSIGNMENT boutique? The overhead for inventory is non-existent, start up would be significantly cheaper and I have the #1 expert as my own mother. After tons more research, saving and some serious personal dedication and drive, it all kind of fell into place from there."

All kind of fell into place? Only thanks to her undeniable talent and lots of hard work. I have only the highest praise for Mint Condition: the merchandise is never lacking in quantity or quality, the service is exceptional and my wardrobe has benefited greatly from living and working just down the street! If you're in the area and need to get out of the house this weekend, put on your snowboots and head over to Mint Condition. If you aren't local, take some time to research the consignment shops in your area. Your wallet and wardrobe will be grateful!

Me: What are your three wardrobe must-haves?
Toni: A form fitting (and figure flattering) LBD, flat boots, and a million sundresses.
For more information on Mint Condition, check out these links:
Daily Candy: Spear a Mint
Deal World: A Slew of New Vintage Stores Make Fashion Frugal
Best Consignment Store: Mint Condition

Cause for Debate

2010-02-24T20:27:00.001-05:00

Those of you who follow my tweets heard about an outfit I wore last week that caused a lot of debate and upset at work. I was told on several occasions that I just didn't match. And then found out that the entire Accounting department had been discussing my outfit all day. All because I decided to pair a plaid with a floral. I even stuck with the same color palette!

Shirt - some random European brand that I had never heard of before / Skirt - Lorick / Pumps - Luichiny
After seeing these pictures though, I stand firmly behind this look. I love the mixed prints and think the silhouette really flatters me. I was sort of upset that people at work seemed to care that much. But as David put it, I put myself out there on my blog and ask for reactions. Why would I not expect the same thing at work? Somehow though in my mind the two worlds were completely separate. I want my blogger friends to care and my colleagues to care much less :)

And you are definitely going to want to check back in tomorrow to see the first post of a brand new feature on La Rue Neuve! Happy almost-Friday!

If I were a shoe...

2010-02-22T20:16:00.002-05:00

To find out what kind of shoe I would be, check this out! Enjoy!

In denial, utter denial

2010-02-21T14:14:00.005-05:00

I refuse to believe that there are still feet and feet of piled up black ice and snow outside. I need spring. I need sunshine. Hell, I need summer. So, the other day, with a frightful, icy wind forcing everyone else to wear coats, hats and gloves, I walked out of my house looking exactly like this. Stupid? Probably. But I am so over winter clothes.

Shirt - David's (I think it's from Benetton) / Leggings - Anthropologie / Flats - Cathy Jean
This is actually David's shirt. I was feeling utterly uninspired by my own wardrobe and this looked like the perfect solution. I love how bulky it is on me - maybe not the most stylish thing I've ever worn but I loved how it made me think of David all day! And boy, was I comfortable! Plus, I feel like this look has an element of Audrey Hepburn chic. Or am I just fishing for excuses? :)

My denial of winter is only one of many symptoms of either a very important Vitamin D deficiency or of full on SADD. I am craving sun and heat - literally. And after spending four glorious, sunny years in beautiful South Carolina, it's making me very homesick. I was telling this to my best friend from college yesterday and that night she called to tell me she was booking a flight to come see me in two weeks! How amazing is that?! I already feel much better. More snow is apparently on the way but at least Caroline will be here in just a couple of short weeks!

Seeing as I am writing this at work, wearing a sleeveless dress, I felt the poem from this month's Vogue was pertinent:

Passion for Fashion
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the dizzy platform height
My Miu Mius lift me when my Monsieur Right
Asks me to dance at Le Baron (tout le craze).
I love thee hot as scarlet sequins' blaze
While, over Krug, they reflect candlelight.
I love thee fierce as black jumpsuits at night;
I love thee pure as white sweater days.
I love thee as much as my Ricci trench
And leopard-spot silk fresh from the printer
And saddle-leather bags labeled in French.
To Barneys I dash like Bolt the sprinter,
Imagining a lace-clad Valentine's clench:
I'll wear Dior shorts (and it's still winter).

With or without?

2010-02-21T14:10:00.005-05:00

I wore this on a casual day when David and I weren't doing too much. But I just couldn't decide if I liked this better with or without the necklaces. Thoughts? Which do you prefer? Or is there another style of necklaces that would be preferable?

Tee - Mango / Jeans - Express / Jacket - Zara / Necklaces - Wet Seal / Ankle boots - Baker's
Can you tell I'm obsessed with these jeans? Such a refreshing change from skinnies.

And this past weekend, this jacket ripped. I cried. It's hands down my favorite piece in my whole closet. I don't think it can be fixed but I'm going to see what I can find out. Enough talking about it - I'm tearing up already.

Thank you to the happy people :)

2010-02-21T13:37:00.005-05:00

The other day one of my favorite colleagues just stopped by my desk to chat for a few minutes. She had been out for a few days and wanted to catch up. She was genuinely interested in how I was doing, wanted to see how the blog was going and to tell me how much she liked my outfit. My daily phone call with my mom is generally the highlight of my day. Later that day, another colleague saved me from a few minutes of work by keeping me laughing hysterically. Throughout the day I got several emails that were from friends "just saying hi." On my way home I let a pedestrian cross in front of me and she actually turned toward me and said, "Thank you." A call from my incredibly sweet grandmother made my day and David greeted me at home with a huge hug and dinner on the table. I checked up on a few of my very favorite bloggers later that night, the ones who have become friends and whose blogs always make me smile. At the gym, the guy whose work out schedule coincides with mine showed up - he always finds the perfect balance between "smile and say hello" and "give her her privacy while she's trying to run." A nice change from the ones who see me every day and still ignore me and those who think that while I'm trying to burn calories is the appropriate time to hit on me.

Dress - Banana Republic / Belt - unknown (purchased at Belladea, store in Columbia, SC) /
Necklace - art fair in D.C. / Boots - Nine West
(P.S. Not really sure why the lighting sucked so bad in these pictures but this was best I could make them look. Oh well.)
I realized as I was falling asleep that night that my day hadn't been necessarily exceptional but had been consistently brightened by the positive people in my life - those I know well, those I know a little and those I don't know at all. So, to all of you - you know who you are, thank you. Thank you for taking the edge off of a long day at work, thank you for making me feel special, thank you for respecting me, thank you for the smiles. Who brightens your day?

You know what?

2010-02-17T21:45:00.005-05:00

Life isn't perfect. But it's pretty damn good.

Jacket - vintage (my grandmother's in the 60s and 70s) / Tee - Urban Outfitters / Jeans - Express / Necklace - Anthropologie (gift from David's mom) / Shoes - Talbots (thrifted for $3) / Bracelet - French Connection /
Scarf - made by my fabulous Mama!

Help. Please.

2010-02-16T21:35:00.004-05:00

Ladies, I need your help. I have been so good lately at working out regularly and eating right all day. Then about an hour after I have dinner, I get the munchies. I am a night eater and I neeeeeed sweets. I don't know how to curb these cravings. Any ideas? Any snacks that would be healthy but curb my sweet cravings? I've already tried fruit and brushing my teeth - it doesn't work. What do I do?

So, about the outfit: I was given this poncho a couple of months ago. Would I have purchased a poncho with my own money? Probably not. But it was so sweet of her to think of me. I was trying to figure out an interesting way to wear it. I thought this looked sort of cool for a night out. What do you think? How would you wear it?

Romance, Schmomance

2010-02-16T09:51:00.004-05:00

I am quite possibly the least romantic girl you will ever know. I don't do mushy-gushy, overly sweet declarations of love. I don't do sappy cards. And I definitely don't do Valentine's Day. I don't understand getting flowers - if you want to buy me something, spend your money on something that will last more than a few days. And instead of a box of chocolates, I prefer it when David indulges my midnight Snickers cravings and goes down to the vending machines to get me one (or several). Don't get me wrong, I am as high maintenance as they come. I require a lot of attention, doting and affirmation. I just don't do romance - nothing wrong with it, it's just not me. So, when I tell you that I had the best possible Valentine's Day ever, it might not have been what you would expect.

Jacket - vintage (it was my grandmother's in the 60s and 70s) / Blouse - French Connection / Shorts - vintage (they were my mom's in the 80s and 90s) / Belt - Urban Outfitters / Shoes - Bettye Muller
We had gone out dancing with friends the night before and David let me sleep until noon. We ate Chinese takeout leftovers for lunch on the couch in our pajamas. We spent several hours working on various creative projects - I sketched and he worked on the table he is building - while we listened to endless acoustic guitar music, the sun filling our tiny apartment with the softest glow. After a quick trip to Whole Foods, he proceeded to make me sole amandine, roasted green beans with fresh parmesan reggiano and lemon mashed potatoes for dinner which we ate while watching a movie. That was it. Nothing out of the ordinary. But I think the best moment was when we weren't saying anything, just listening to the music and enjoying being with each other. That means more to me than any box of chocolates or flowers ever could.

Guest Post: Nookie from Fashion in My Eyes

2010-02-15T09:56:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone,I'm nookie@fashioninmyeyes.com.

Get the look it's a fairly new "column" on fashion in my eyes,but my readers like it,and because I know Christen is a fan of Rachel Bilson
I wanted to recreate one of her looks.I've studied a couple of her outfits,Rachel has a smart casual style,she likes masculine blazers and wears jeans a lot.
I'm sure everyone has at least one stripped top,all you need is Marc Jacobs Petal to the Metal look-a-like bag,in this case Lucky brand bag.Add a grey blazer(Topshop), faux fur booties and there you go.

Rachel by nookie featuring Dorothy Perkins tops

Ups and Downs

2010-02-11T19:27:00.007-05:00

1. Up - I had a blast yesterday styling up new looks even though I was stuck inside all day. This was the first one, inspired by the Marc Jacobs ads in January's glossies. My mom designed the pants when we were living in Senegal and had them made in the nineties. I love how dramatic they look!

Shirt - Urban Outfitters / Jacket - Zara / Pants - custom made in Senegal / Shoes - Steve Madden
2. Down - I know all of you are already aware that Alexander McQueen passed away yesterday. I am devastated. He was a true genius. Such a loss.

3. Up - I get to go back to work today. Well, for a half-day at least. But it at least gives me a reason to get my butt out of bed and take a shower at a decent hour!

4. Down - Have you seen the Mara Hoffman for Victoria's Secret tribal cover-up in the latest VS catalog? On page 5? I am obsessed with it and was just waiting to have the dough to purchase it for my vaca in Miami in May. I went to purchase it online last night and I can't find it on their website anywhere! I will call them tomorrow (I'm desperate) but if you know something I don't, please spill! I was already imagining myself wearing it straight from the beach to one of my favorite Cuban restaurants right on the water followed by drinks at a glitzy place on the bay.

5. Up - The Old Town Boutique District's annual warehouse sale was rescheduled (due to the blizzard) for tomorrow morning. This was one of my absolute favorite fashion events of the year in 2009 and I am so freaking excited about it this year. You'll definitely want to get there early to get in on the deals as soon as the door opens!

#Snowverit

2010-02-11T09:43:00.004-05:00

Day seven of being snowed in. My meeting was canceled last night because my friend's flight was canceled. I was about to go stir crazy so for a couple of rather dangerous hours, David drove me around in the mess to see the snow and just to get me out of the house. And this...

... is what I wore. After sleeping all day out of boredom, I couldn't bring myself to change out of my pajamas. D.C. was a ghost town, thankfully. No one but David saw me. But still, I'm a bit ashamed that after only a week, I've lost all sense of wardrobe sanity. So, today, I am getting out of my pajamas. I am going to style new looks all day - hair, makeup and all! I have to do something and the blogging+workingout+nap+television combination isn't really cutting it anymore. So, pardon the many fashion faux-pas I committed yesterday and hopefully the result of today will be many great new looks to post next week!

Snowmageddon, Snowverkill, Snowpocalypse

2010-02-09T22:33:00.007-05:00

Another snow day :) But at least tonight, I have a dinner meeting that is just around the corner from my apartment building. That not only gets me out of the house but for the first time in six days I will actually put on makeup and make myself pretty! Yay!

Dress - Ann Taylor / Jacket - Zara / Boots - Nine West / Necklace - Banana Republic / Gloves - vintage (gift from my mom)
Also, I wanted to thank Marta from I love my wardrobe for this awesome award:

I would like to give this award to Une etincelle de mode (France)
and FashionJazz (South Africa).

And Lisa from Knit Teach Ride for this one:

This one definitely should go to Fashion Therapist because she looks amazing, even in a cast and on crutches
and to Pretty Little Steps for encouraging me to exercise and eat healthy on a daily basis!

Thank you, ladies! You guys are the sweetest :)

Cabin Fever

2010-02-09T09:27:00.006-05:00

Oh dear, ladies, I am a mess. Fifth day in a row that I have been snowed in. I don't know what to do with myself. My shin splints finally healed enough that I could at least start working out again. But I literally ate 30 of the three dozen cookies I made for the office party that was canceled last week because of the snow out of pure boredom. I am a true homebody... until it's forced upon me. And now all I want to do is to get outside and do something.

Dress - consigned (originally Urban Outfitters) / Belt - Zara / Boots - Nine West /
Necklace - Laila Rowe / Hat - vintage (gift from my mom)
Yesterday, for at least a couple of hours I was able to drive around. Unfortunately the circumstances were as stressful as driving on icy streets. Let's just say bank errors and an emergency deposit made it imperative that I find an open bank. Which, of course, due to the snow, was nearly impossible. Thankfully, David came to my rescue (talk about knight in shining armor). We did get it worked out. And my day got better from there. Because we were out anyway, we decided to go to the grocery store and get healthy food (yay!). And a great work out that afternoon made me feel justified in fully indulging in David's chicken parm and a great bottle of wine last night.

Anyway, all of that to say, "Snow, I appreciate the many days off of work. I really do. And maybe even one more snow day tomorrow would be appreciated. But after that, if you could find some way to send me on a ten day-long tropical vacation so that I can thaw out, that would be awesome. Thanks."

P.S. Please go vote for me on Chicisimo! Thank you, Maria, for featuring me!

let's just call this 'the week of boring titles'

2010-02-05T06:36:00.005-05:00

My gift to myself yesterday was to go back to choir. We took a short break over the holidays but it was so much fun to get together again! I always leave my friend's house after choir full of endorphins, a smile on my face and unable to stop singing! I mean, who wouldn't want to sing Broadway and Disney songs for two hours with good friends after a really fabulous homemade meal? Yeah. I love choir nights.

Top - Express / Cami - Gap / Necklace - Laila Rowe /
Pants - The Limited (from when I was 14, I think. Scary.) / Boots - Seychelles / Socks - Target

(I don't know if you can see them in the second picture, but I stuck a couple of black silk flowers in my hair.)
This afternoon the snow is to commence. And we could get up to two feet. Another weekend spent stuck inside. I think it's safe to say there won't be any weekend outfit pictures because I won't get out of my pajamas! Oh well, I'm off to work - at least until the snow starts. I hope you all have a fabulous weekend, darlings!

*** Update: I just got a call and I don't have to go in to work at all today! I might like this whole snow thing after all... :)

I'm really bad at this whole title thing...

2010-02-03T20:28:00.006-05:00

Jacket - made by my very talented mother! / Skirt - vintage Ralph Lauren (also from my mom) / Gloves - vintage (gift from my mom - my wardrobe would be lame without her!) / Scarf - market in Charleston, SC /
Turtleneck - H&M / Boots - Nine West
I sort of forgot to do something good for myself yesterday. It makes for a pretty uninteresting post but at least it's honest. By the way, we're expecting another major snow storm here this weekend. Fourth weekend in two months we've been snowed in - I'm really getting tired of it.

untitled because it's too early in the morning to think

2010-02-02T21:54:00.006-05:00

This is the coat I wore with yesterday's look. I got this coat on my birthday shopping spree for 70% off! I was beyond excited and it was one of my favorite purchases of the day.

Coat - BCBG / Shoes - Nine West
I was going to tell you that the thing I did for myself yesterday was to exercise and eat well. Well, neither happened. I wasn't able to exercise because my shin splints are still killing me and I really need to let them heal. And I ate REALLY well ALL day until 9:22 PM when I got a chocolate craving... and gave in. So, instead, what I did for myself yesterday is to not beat myself up for having a couple of minor setbacks. Sometimes, just cutting yourself some slack is the best thing you can do!

I Got It From My Mama

2010-02-01T20:52:00.009-05:00

When I was at my parents' house over my birthday weekend, my mother literally gave me a suitcase full of clothes. This shirt and these shorts are two of those pieces. I have a horrible time finding button-down shirts that fit me properly because I'm so narrow around my ribcage. This Zara shirt fits exactly like it should though and I love the color. The shorts are from the late 80s / early 90s. I actually tried to convince my mom for many years to get rid of them because they weren't in style anymore. But Mama knows best. And here I am twenty years later wearing the same exact shorts.

Shirt - Zara / Necklace - Vintage / Shorts - Spiegel (80s/90s) / Tights - Express / Shoes - Nine West
So, I have to share a little bit of information that really helped me yesterday. I always go home for lunch. Generally it's a very rushed hour that includes eating, picture taking, cleaning and calling my mom. But since work has been really stressful lately, I decided to use that hour for a less productive but just as beneficial activity - meditation. Now, I'm no meditation expert. Really my form of meditation is as simple as it gets. It involves sitting cross-legged, eyes closed, facing my floor-to-ceiling window (with the view I showed yesterday). I find about ten minutes worth of meditation music on Youtube and just focus on breathing. Anytime my mind starts wandering, I bring it back to my breathing.

Yesterday, after I had eaten, I just sat. And breathed. For ten minutes. It wasn't much but you know what? It was just enough to give me a fresh start. I let go of the stress, anxiety and annoyances from that morning and started that afternoon with a clear mind. I fully intend on making this a daily activity at lunch - in addition to the ten minutes I do in the morning and evening. Sometimes all we really need is to just stop and breathe.

This is the first step in the Radical Self-Love month. I read about it for the first time on Knit, Teach, Ride. The point is to do something great for yourself every day. Taking a break to meditate was my gift to myself yesterday. What will you give yourself?

P.S. My hair isn't red. It's just the way I edited the pictures. Although it has lightened up a good bit... again.

Guest Post on Fashion in my Eyes

2010-01-31T19:07:00.004-05:00

Hello, lovely readers! Nookie from Fashion in my Eyes requested that I write up a guest post for her blog today. So, head on over there and see what I had to say. We will be back to regular posting tomorrow morning. I was, however, tagged by Nika of Irie Chic to show everyone the view outside my window. This is what it looked like this weekend and because of it, I really wasn't able to do much. But I could think of worse ways to spend a weekend than cozying up on the couch in my jammies with the boy, a cup of tea and a movie.

And I tag everybody! Because I think this is such a fun way to find out a little bit more about each other. Can't wait to see your views!

Mos-key-no

2010-01-28T21:39:00.007-05:00

It's Friday. Did you sense the sigh of relief with which I wrote that? Let's just say, it's been a long week. Anyway, I thought I'd share this article that I found yesterday: The Official Guide to Hard-to-Pronounce Designer Names. It was fun to work my way through them and see which ones I totally effed up. My French definitely helped! The only one I had no idea I was mispronouncing was Moschino. Did you know it's pronounced Mos-key-no? Okay, maybe it was just me... :)

Jacket - LaRok / Top - Express / Pants - Mexx / Shoes - Nine West / Bracelet - J Crew
This outfit was worn to work yesterday. We had a very important client come in the office so we all had to dress appropriately. I am obsessed with this jacket and don't wear it often enough. And my mom just gave me these black pants when I was home a couple of weeks ago. I am completely in love with how flared they are. (Sorry for the retarded poses and blank stares. I wasn't having a camera-friendly day for some reason.)

By the way, thank you all for your super supportive, kind and generous posts yesterday.
You all make my day, every day. Happy Weekend!

Pay It Forward Winner

2010-01-28T06:21:00.003-05:00

The first three comments were left by Milly, Fashion is a Playground and Elle from Wonderfelle! Sorry to those of you who thought you were third - I wasn't able to access my account yesterday morning to approve all of the comments that had been sent in. The two random winners are #22 (Kiki from What I Wear in a Little Town) and #16 (Rebekah from Shell). Would all of the winners kindly send me their addresses at christen.green@gmail.com so that I know where to send the gift? Thanks to everyone who commented and loved yesterday's post. You guys are the best!

You-nique

2010-01-27T16:32:00.005-05:00

I have self esteem issues. Duh. Doesn't everyone? Yes, I am a confident person and take pride in my accomplishments and capabilities. But when it comes to my body, I, like every other woman on earth, am insecure. My butt's too big and my boobs are too small. I have cellulite - disgusting. I have a turkey neck (MAJOR obsession) and one eye is smaller than the other. My weight fluctuates entirely too much and I'm short - really short. And even at age 24, without makeup I look like I'm 12.

Shirt - French Connection / Jeans - Express / Cardigan - Zara / Shoes - Boutique 9 / Socks - Target / Necklace - Banana Republic / Bracelet - French Connection / Belt - I genuinely have no idea / Jewelry - gift from my mom from Senegal
But over the past couple of years (especially since I started blogging) I have become increasingly forgiving of my physical flaws. It's not that I've forgotten them, but for some reason they just don't matter as much. Part of this is due to the fact that I have been eating healthier and working out - my body has literally changed. Part of it is that I'm simply growing up. Also, I have a boyfriend who genuinely thinks I'm beautiful. But after reading this article and thinking about it for the past two days, I realize that fashion has played a huge part in teaching me that my flaws are just not that important.

I know this sounds completely unreasonable considering the insane amount of photoshopping magazines indulge in and the negative size models that walk the runways. Let it be known: I am NOT endorsing the "I look like I haven't eaten in days" trend. But think about it. Like the article says, "One of the truly commendable things about fashion is how little interest it has in appealing to straight men, or making women look attractive to them." As I become increasingly passionate about fashion, I have slowly grown to accept myself as I am. Why? Because I no longer dress myself for others. Instead, getting dressed every morning has become a creative process, a form of self expression. Fashion encourages me to dress for me. It encourages me to wear what I find beautiful. Fashion has taught me to be unique.

I probably should not have needed fashion (or clothes) to get to this point. But I'm working on that. One step at a time.

P.S. I'm not saying any of this is right or wrong - I realize this topic is a sensitive one for many people. I just wanted to share a part of my journey.

Pay It Forward

2010-01-26T15:57:00.007-05:00

So, the completely gorgeous, talented, stylish and super sweet Shannon of **Happiness is...** introduced me to Pay It Forward. Essentially, the way it works is that the first three people to comment on this blog will receive a handmade gift from me within the next year. Exciting, right? Well, because I love my readers so much, I've decided to include the first three readers who comment plus two additional commenters selected at random! I encourage all of you to participate in Pay It Forward. I think it's such a wonderful way to connect with other bloggers and your readers!

(By the way, I have no idea what I'm going to make yet. But don't expect straight up couture or anything *smile*)

Skirt - Oscar by Oscar de la Renta (thrifted for $3) / Shirt - Banana Republic / Necklace - Brook&Lyn /
Tights - Express / Shoes - Nine West / Earrings - vintage / Trench - Zara
Nothing special about this look. I wasn't terribly happy with the way I pulled it together. But at least it gives you a chance to see my beloved red trench coat! It honestly couldn't be more perfect and I got it for a mere 20 euros (back when the dollar was better off) at Zara. I have worn it for a solid five years and it's still in perfect condition! And in response to your question: yes, I am popping my collar. Why? Because I can.

Now hurry up and comment!

Three strikes, I'm out.

2010-01-25T21:22:00.008-05:00

Sorry I didn't get around to blogging yesterday. I was going to get everything ready this weekend - then I had a very eventful couple of days. I was going to get it done this morning before work - but I overslept after not sleeping from 3 to 5 AM because of a storm. I was going to do it on my laptop at work over lunch - but the internet connection wasn't working. Three strikes, I'm out.

Jacket - H&M (gift from Sophie for Christmas!) / Tubetop - Victoria's Secret /
Harem Pants - Vintage Neiman's / Tights - Hue / Ankle boots - Baker's
I had a weekend full of emotional highs and lows. I thoroughly enjoyed lunch with Elle (seriously, she's amazing!) and yoga/Starbucks with Cathy. David and I laughed hysterically after going to two different art exhibits, both being total busts (we're talking dead men made of wax hanging from the ceiling kind of busts).

But in the midst of everything, I had a really major decision to make. I can't give you details but the best way to describe the way I felt is the way a good friend of mine put it: "I can see everything but can't make any sense of it." Ever feel that way?

Anyway, after a roller coaster of a weekend emotions-wise, and a rather rough start to my Monday morning, here's to hoping the rest of the week can only go up from here!

P.S. I'm now on Weardrobe, Chictopia and Stylecaster. Links are on the left sidebar. I'm feeling sort of overwhelmed by adding everyone. So, if you're on any of them, please friend me! Also, I'm really lost with Stylecaster. What exactly is the "closet" for and can you add text to your pictures? Thanks, lovelies!

A Week of Combat Boots: Day Five (And Giveaway Winner!)

2010-01-22T06:21:00.006-05:00

I think one of my favorite parts of blogging is randomly selecting a giveaway winner! And isn't karma a great thing? The lovely girls at BonBon Rose generously set up a week of giveaways for their readers and the winner of this giveaway, lucky number 38 (via www.random.org), is none other than Kristin from BonBon Rose! What you put out into the universe comes back around! If you aren't familiar with their blog, you are missing out on a great thing. Congratulations, Kristin. Just email me your address and I'll make sure the right person gets it! Yay!

Sorry for the crappy picture. I took it this morning with my phone while laying in bed. Then I proceeded to upload it onto Facebook, download it to my computer, upload it again to Flickr and paste the html over here. It's had a long journey already and it's only 6:30 in the morning!
Now, as promised, this was my second traveling outfit - what I wore in the train from South Carolina to D.C. It was just as comfortable as yesterday's look and yet made a completely different statement. It was only this morning that I realized I only paired these combat boots with pants... Not very creative of me. Maybe in a couple of weeks, I will have to do another week of combat boots - skirts and dresses edition! Thoughts?! :)

Sweater - American Apparel / Riding pants - Anthropologie / Boots - Nine West /
Hat - it was my mom's when we lived in Senegal, recently given to me!
Having woken up at 5:15 that morning in order to catch my train, I was not about to put on makeup and do my hair. This hat offered the perfect solution. And while it is practical and stylish, it actually means a lot to me. I spent my childhood in Senegal (West Africa) and I grew up seeing my mom wear this hat all the time. This style - the patched and mismatched fabric - is called mbaye fall. Apparently one of the people's ancestors was a very wealthy Muslim prophet who had a real heart for the poor. So, when his clothing began to rip, instead of wasting money and purchasing new clothes, he just patched it up. He continued this process until his clothing was covered in patches - serving as a reminder to himself and to others that there were other, needier people out there and that our priority should be to care for them.

On that note, I hope you all have a fabulous weekend. I'm meeting up with Elle from A Wonderfelle World for lunch tomorrow and then plan to follow that with some art exhibits with David. And Sunday includes lots of blogging homework, football and yoga/Starbucks with Cathy of Cathy Philips Fashion! Happy Friday, blogger darlings!

A Week of Combat Boots: Day Four

2010-01-21T06:56:00.008-05:00

This is what I wore on the train headed to South Carolina. The boots were the perfect shoes for a trip like that: they kept me warm, were easy to take on and off (thanks to the zipper) and looked stylish while being very comfortable. And even though this outfit is uber simple, it was so practical: the coat served as a blanket and the scarf as a pillow. And this is my favorite style of top on me. The way it hangs makes me look bustier than I am and sort of balances my top half with my bottom half. Anyway, if you are ever planning on taking the train, I highly recommend a look similar to this one.

Sweater - gift from my boss from her trip to Italy (she's the best!) / Jeans - Express / Coat - Zara /
Scarf - Anthropologie (gift from David's mom) / COMBAT BOOTS - Nine West
Check back tomorrow for my second, much more adventurous, traveling look.

This is the last day to enter my giveaway! So, if you haven't already, please please please remember to enter! Think of it as my belated birthday gift from you :)

P.S. Sorry about the awful glare in my sunglasses. I tried everything I knew to do to get rid of it and it just made it worse. Maybe I need to get Photoshop. Or maybe I should just stop wearing my sunglasses in my pictures... Oh, and obviously these were taken before I darkened my hair again. I really do like it better now. Okay. Enough rambling. Happy almost-Friday everybody!

A Week of Combat Boots: Day Three

2010-01-19T21:26:00.004-05:00

Happy Wednesday, everyone! I have literally been living in these combat boots. So, picking five looks this week was pretty easy. But this one is definitely one of my favorites.

Jacket - Vintage / Harem pants - Zara / COMBAT BOOTS - Nine West
While I was at home this past weekend, my mom cleaned out her closet and gave me loads of her vintage clothes from the eighties and nineties. She has crazy amazing style and I can't wait to show you guys everything! This jacket was part of a three-piece suit. It's the softest suede and the attention to detail is amazing. Wearing the whole suit together looks a bit dated but wearing the pieces as separates makes them more modern.

I have been reading Elizabeth Gilbert's (author of Eat, Pray, Love - my favorite book) newest read, Committed: A Skeptic Makes Peace with Marriage. It's almost as if she wrote the book for me - I resonate with everything. But I found this passage particularly interesting. Let me know what you think.

"In a world of such abundant possibility, many of us simply go limp from indecision. Or we derail our life's journey again and again, backing up to try the doors we neglected on the first round, desperate to get it right this time. Or we become compulsive comparers - always measuring our lives against some other person's life, secretly wondering if we should have taken her path instead. ... All these choices and all this longing can create a weird kind of haunting in our lives - as though the ghosts of all our other, unchosen, possibilities linger forever in a shadow world around us, continuously asking, 'Are you certain this is what you really wanted?'"

Just some food for thought.

P.S. Yes, I did redo my dark hair color because it had faded so much already. I'm really loving it.

A Week of Combat Boots: Day Two

2010-01-19T07:07:00.005-05:00

Back to work today. Back to reality. I spent ALL of my daylight hours in the train yesterday - not so much fun. But I'm here and happy to be back with David and to have slept in my own bed last night.

Sweater - BCBG (gift from David's sister / Jeans - Cache / Jacket - Zara / COMBAT BOOTS - Nine West
Thank you to all of those who entered my giveaway over the weekend. Don't forget there are several ways to get a few extra chances to win! And if you haven't entered it yet, there are still three more days to enter!

A Week of Combat Boots: Day One

2010-01-17T20:41:00.005-05:00

Got up really early this morning to catch the train back to D.C. I have had such a wonderful birthday weekend. Lots of family time, good food and good friends, presents and lots of great shopping! My parents are moving to Montreal this summer (*sad face*) and my brother will still be in South Carolina finishing up school. So, this was the last time in many months that my whole family will have been together. Thank you, Mama and Papa, B, Pop Pop and Caroline, for making my 24th very special!

Blazer - BCBG / Tank - Banana Republic / Scarf - Anthrolopogie (gift from David's mom) / Harem pants - Forever 21 / COMBAT BOOTS - Nine West / Necklace - Eastern Market in DC / Bracelet...
This bracelet was my Christmas present from David. The first piece of jewelry he has ever given me. (It only took him four and a half years! lol) Didn't he do well though? According to him, he saw the biggest one in his granddad's store and knew it was for me! Lol I have been wearing it with everything and couldn't be happier with it!

Thank you to all of those who entered my giveaway over the weekend. Don't forget there are several ways to get a few extra chances to win! And if you haven't entered it yet, there are still four more days to enter! Plus, it gives me a chance to "meet" all of my readers who don't normally comment. Speaking of, I have already "met" a few of my followers on Twitter thanks to the giveaway. If you follow me on Twitter (@LaRueNeuve) and I don't follow you yet, please let me know. I would love to get to know all of you!

P.S. Any ideas on how to upload a new font to my blog? I found and downloaded several but now I can't seem to figure out how to get them up here. I'm so bad at this.

Birthday Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-01-14T20:06:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday to me!!! Yes, I am turning 24 today and in celebration of that I am having a very special giveaway thanks to Wine Racks. There is nothing better than coming home after a long day at work and enjoying a great glass of wine, right? Nothing better except maybe having a stylish place to store that bottle! I love this unique wine holder and since I would have wanted it for my birthday, I thought it was a great gift to give away.

Here are the rules. One chance to win by commenting with your favorite kind of wine. Second chance to win by tweeting about this contest. Third chance to win by blogging about this contest. Leave me an extra comment each time you do one of these. And next Friday (January 22) I will choose a winner. (Only the US and Canada, I'm afraid.) I hope you guys are as excited about this as I am. Thank you to Tyler from www.JustWineRacks.com for giving me this opportunity! And Happy Birthday to me! Yay! :)

Home Sweet Home

2010-01-14T08:17:00.004-05:00

At home and loving it. My granddad is giving me family history lessons. My mom is cooking up a storm. And I'm getting plenty of my dad's awesome hugs! Breakfast is almost ready so I need to go. Check back tomorrow for my birthday giveaway! It's a good one :)

Pants - JCrew / Shirt - Rebecca Beeson / Vest - Zara / Infinity Scarf - gift (from David's aunt) / Ankle boots - Nine West

I'm Off !

2010-01-13T08:07:00.002-05:00

Short and sweet today, lovelies. There was a minor (read: major) change of events yesterday and one of our cars broke down. In short, David needs a car to get to and from work while I'm gone and therefore, taking the only working car to South Carolina was no longer an option. Last-minute flights were exorbitantly priced as was renting a car (who knew?). So, in a couple of hours I will be boarding a train to South Carolina. No, it's not the easy six-hour drive by myself that I was looking forward to but I have loaded up on books, magazines and movies and fully intend on enjoying the experience. This will be my first time on an American train! My dad is pretty great though - he upgraded me to business class which makes the whole experience much more enjoyable! Thanks, Papa! (I'll have to make sure he reads this post because I don't think he normally does...)

Anyway, I have to finish packing and cleaning before my cab gets here. Here is a brief outfit post. Nothing special really but I thought it turned out decent. Don't forget to enter BonBon Rose's week full of giveaways (see post below) and to vote for me on Chicisimo (see post below). Oh, and I know I have been slacking on commenting on your blogs this week but I promise to catch up once I get home tonight. Can't wait to see what all of you have been up to and wearing! Alright, I'm off. Toodles!

Dress - Express / Belt - Zara / Necklace - Ann Taylor / Patterned tights - Target / Shoes - Steve Madden
P.S. I will be on Twitter and G-chat all day so feel free to keep me entertained! :)

Blogger Giveaway and Chicisimo

2010-01-12T11:51:00.002-05:00

Just a couple things:

1. Please go vote for me at Chicisimo.com whenever you get a chance.

2. You absolutely MUST go check out BonBon Rose's anniversary week of giveaways! They have some amazing goods up for grabs - you won't be disappointed! And congrats to the two lovely ladies behind BBR on a great year!

Birthday Countdown: Four

2010-01-11T19:06:00.009-05:00

Today is my Friday as I am headed to South Carolina early tomorrow morning to spend my birthday with my family and friends. Yay!

Tubetop - Victoria's Secret / Skirt - Ali Ro / Belt - Belladea (boutique in Columbia, SC) / Fur - vintage (no label) / Socks - Target / Oxfords - Steve Madden

I bought this stole on a whim at a consignment shop, unsure even of how I was going to wear it. But it was so soft and for the price, I was practically stealing it! Short and sweet tonight. As I'm writing this (on Monday night), I am watching Julie & Julia for the first time and I'm loving it. So tata for now, darlings!

***Update: I just finished watching Julie and Julia. And, wow. I loved it. And not because Meryl Streep is a genius (which she is, by the way) but because of how much of myself I saw in Amy Adams' character, Julie. No, I don't cook and I don't intend on starting a blog about cooking. And until two hours and thirty-seven minutes ago, I knew next to nothing about Julia Childs. But I am a blogger.

Weird. Never would I have thought that, at the age of (almost) twenty-four, blogging would have become such an important part of my life. Never would I have thought that I would have become a ... blogger. In the movie, Julie begins to blog at a time in her life which has left her feeling lost and confused. She had her life planned and knew where she was headed. And somehow, none of it worked out. Sound familiar? Painfully so. So she began to blog and in doing so, she found fulfillment. She found passion. She found joy.

It struck me when, in the movie, Julie tries to make her husband understand that blogging is all she has left. Scary - I said that exact same thing to David. Both of us were obviously exaggerating but sometimes it feels that way.

I was a planner. I had always planned every step of my career, of my life. And in the past year and a half, the Universe decided to turn everything upside down. Now don't get me wrong, life isn't bad. I actually love my life - I have an amazing boyfriend, an equally amazing family, a cozy apartment to come home to every night and enough in my bank account to allow me to shop a little every month. But for the very first time in my life, I am without direction. Without ambition. And that terrifies me. But "blogging is saving me," to quote Julie. It gives me purpose. I still don't know where any of this will go or even if it ever will. But until I get it all figured out, I can blog. And that brings me fulfillment, passion and joy.

(Sorry for the extremely cheesy writing. And no hard feelings if you preferred to skip this rather lengthy essay. But hey, it's my blog, and I felt like sharing. *wink*)

Birthday Countdown: Five

2010-01-10T13:59:00.011-05:00

Not a great weekend unfortunately. I have bronchitis which pretty much got in the way of me doing anything fun this weekend. I am feeling a little better now so that hopefully by my birthday on Friday I will be fully recovered. A lot of my blogger friends are sick right now. So, to all of you, I hope you were able to rest and recover this weekend and are now in great health! As I coughed, sneezed and slept this weekend, I thought of and sympathized with all of you!

Dress -Urban Outfitters / Fur vest - Marciano / Leggings - H&M / Various necklaces and bracelets / Serpent bracelet - vintage Whiting & Davis / Ankle boots - Baker's / Scarf - Urban Outfitters
I wore this outfit when I was healthier, right after going brunette. I must say having darker hair has been a great change for me. I think it looks a lot better on me but more than that, it is so freeing. Weird, I know. But I was SO attached to my blonde hair and the necessary stereotypes. Change is good.

One of my top three favorite pieces of jewelry! Given to me by a close friend last year. I am mildly obsessed with serpent jewelry - there is something so empowering about them. As opposed to what many may think, in many ancient cultures serpents represented renewal, regeneration and rebirth and were associated with the feminine divine. To me, they serve as a reminder that women are not the weak, deceitful creatures that many religions and cultures make them out to be. But we are the source of life, symbols of strength, protection and wisdom. Pretty cool, right? So that's why I collect serpent jewelry. Sorry if that was TMI. :)

By the way, on the 15th (Friday), to celebrate my birthday, I will be having La Rue Neuve's second giveaway! Can't wait!

It's as Cold as Ice!

2010-01-07T18:55:00.005-05:00

It's soooooo cold here and I've been pretty miserably sick this week. I made it through Wednesday at work but since I was coughing up a storm yesterday, I stayed home. Back at work today but at least it's Friday.

Dress - Label unknown (consigned) / Tights - Hue / Flats - Seychelles
I wore this simple velvet dress ($15) to work on Wednesday when I was feeling rough. I felt pretty much the way I look in this picture. Would you believe that this is the only semi-decent picture that came out of the 30 that I took?! I didn't even have the energy to put on makeup or do my hair that morning. Not good conditions for picture-taking.

With that said, I actually do really like this dress. I found this gem at the new consignment shop in Old Town, Current Boutique. You should seriously check it out if you're in the area. I love it. Also, I could use some help figuring out how else to wear this dress. As much as I love it, I just am not inspired by it for some reason. Maybe once I feel better, I'll be able to think more clearly.

I am feeling a little better already and hope to be able to enjoy my weekend. Tomorrow David and I are making a deal. I am going to a woodworking show with him and he is going to go to the Value Village in Silver Spring with me. I can't wait - I have high expectations. Sunday, the Textile Museum is hosting a Harajuku Japanese Street Fashion Demonstration. (Here are the details.) If anyone feels like going with me, let me know! I promise I won't be contagious by then and I have a feeling after an afternoon at Value Village, David won't be too keen on a Harajuku fashion show... Anyway, Happy Weekend, everybody!

Washington Life Magazine - November Issue

2010-01-05T15:33:00.004-05:00

Remember when I told you I helped a well-known DC fashion consultant pull clothes for a photo shoot for Washington Life Magazine? Well, not only did I forget to purchase the magazine for myself but more importantly I forgot to show you guys the finished product! I wasn't able to attend the photo shoot itself because I have a day job... Yes, that vibe you're getting is frustration. And yes, I agree, I should be able to get off work to go to a photo shoot. But alas, such was not the case. Anyway, I'm really impressed with Cathy's work as a consultant and stylist! She did a great job!

The pictures were shot at the Shakespeare Theater in DC and Cathy ran with the theme of a stylish couple going to the theater. Let me know what you think!

P.S. I pulled these pictures from Cathy's original blog post and the last one from Washington Life Magazine website.
P.P.S. I know this is a long shot but if anyone happens to own a copy of this issue, I am willing to purchase it from you. Just email me!

Yummy in My Tummy!

2010-01-05T14:56:00.009-05:00

As I have previously mentioned on several occasions, I am quite possibly the worst chef ever. No, seriously. The worst. Within two weeks of moving into my first college apartment, I was known as "The Girl Who Keeps Setting Off The Smoke Detectors." I have screwed up Easy Mac many times, have ruined a professional chef's prize bundle of asparagus (don't ask), and have burned water. It takes talent, folks. So, the fact that I am actually passing on a recipe today, a recipe which I tried and succeeded in following, is nothing short of a miracle.

A couple of years ago, I desperately needed to lose the twenty pounds I had gained during the semester I interned on Capitol Hill. I got back to school in South Carolina and decided that the best way to do it was to eat vegan. And I stuck to it for four months and lost more than the twenty pounds I had gained. I slept better, pooped better (seriously, this stuff is important), felt better and looked better than I ever had before. Unfortunately, being the semi-social person that I am, I found it really difficult to eat vegan anytime I wasn't at home alone - which rarely happened. So, I gave up and have regretted it ever since. This time, I've decided to start slowly introducing more and more vegan meals into my diet in the hopes that one day it becomes second nature. This recipe is a step in that direction.

It's easy, super yummy and I can eat it all week without getting bored of it! I found it in the September 2009 issue of InStyle magazine. So, for those of you who are interested, here it is:

Pappa al Pomodoro Soup
You will need:
3 tbsp olive oil
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
2 tsp chopped fresh sage
5 medium ripe, peeled, seeded tomatoes, chopped
3 slices day-old white peasant bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
3 cups water

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, basil and sage, and cook for 2 minutes or until garlic begins to brown. 2. Stir in tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir, breaking up bread with back of a wooden spoon. 3. Let soup simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
(The picture can be found here.)

Here are a few changes that I made:
1. Peeling and seeding the tomatoes was too difficult for me. I just cut up whole tomatoes, mashed them in the pot really well and added 1/2 cup less of water.
2. I added WAY more sage and basil than this recipe calls for.
3. I used whole wheat bread to make it healthier.
4. And come to think of it, a little bit of red wine vinegar would be a nice addition.

No pictures of the food. I am neither a photographer (my pictures aren't great) nor am I a chef (my food presentation is horrifying). So, here is the outfit I wore the day that I made the soup for the first time:

Dress - Zara / Belt - Zara / Boots - Nine West / Tights - Hue / Clutch - Banana Republic
I love that blogging has made me so much more creative with my outfits. Two years ago it would have never crossed my mind to wear a studded belt with a floral dress. But I loved the result! Happy Wednesday, everyone. Hang in there - only half of the work week left!

Style Sample Magazine

2010-01-04T21:52:00.007-05:00

I am sure all of you know and love Style Sample Magazine - the magazine by fashion bloggers, about fashion bloggers, and for fashion bloggers. Well, thanks to guest editor Liz Goff of Lizzie Jeanne, I had the opportunity to contribute to one of the articles this month!

I personally adore Style Sample and love how it is all about real young women and their real style choices. I know my contribution is pretty insignificant in the grand scheme of things but I'm really proud to be a small part of something so successful and so meaningful! Thank you to the ladies of Style Sample Magazine for giving me this opportunity!
To read the full issue, you can check it out here.

I actually did end up buying flat, lace-up boots a few days ago. Actually, David bought them for me for my birthday (which is January 15). They aren't as amazing as the Joie boots in the article, but they are still pretty sweet! I'll be posting pictures of them within the next few days.

Thank you all for your sweet comments about my dark hair yesterday. More pictures of it to come soon! And for those of you have asked, tomorrow I'm going to give you guys a super yummy recipe for a tomato stew that I made this weekend. It's 100% vegan and incredibly tasty - a rare combination!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-03T20:27:00.010-05:00

Finally, a real blog post! I can't believe it - it's been so long :)

I hope everyone had a fabulous New Year's Eve celebration. I'm not a huge fan of this particular holiday (the expectations are just too high) but I had a really good time nonetheless. Sushi, movies, fireworks, and champagne in my cozy apartment with my favorite person ever. Great way to start the new year!

Fur vest - Rachel Roy / Dress - Fashionista / Tights - Hue / Ankle boots - Bakers
I can't believe that it's already 2010. Ten years ago I was celebrating the new year with my best friend and her family in France. They had a huge party and I wore a dark blue velvet dress with platform pumps. In ten years, I started and finished high school, started and finished college and began my life as a bill-paying, job-holding, salaried adult. Craziness.

I've really enjoyed reading everyone's resolutions. Making resolutions is actually the one thing I do enjoy about the new year. I think having goals is a good thing. Striving for something is healthy. The most important thing about setting goals and making resolutions is to realize that as times and situations change, it's okay for your goals and resolutions to evolve as well. Thankfully, everyone gets a chance to reevaluate everything and make new goals in 365 days. So, with that said, here are my 2010 resolutions:

1. Eat healthier. Learn to cook. Continue working out like I have been. Stop drinking Diet Cokes. Start introducing more vegan meals into my diet. (All of this counts as one.)
2. Continue working really hard at work so that hopefully this year some sort of promotion will be merited.
3. Start volunteering. Maybe by joining the Junior League. I was involved with loads of charity projects in college and have missed it a lot since graduation. And I need to be reminded that the world does not, in fact, revolve around me.
4. Stop focusing on what frustrates and angers me (organized religion) but rather dedicate time to discovering what I believe in (spirituality).
5. Blog - not because I feel like I have to, not because I am putting unnecessary pressure on myself to do so, but because it is the one thing that keeps me sane and happy.
6. Focus on purchasing quality items. Build a wardrobe full of special pieces. And master the bewildering world of makeup.
7. Stop letting insignificant things (and people) get to me.
8. Be more selfless.
9. Read more.
9. Pay off the little bit of credit card debt I have and keep it paid off.
10. Learn to be content with who I am and where I am in life. Take things one step at a time. Never think, "I can't."

Some are tangible; others are life goals. But hopefully by the end of 2010 I will feel like I am a little bit closer to achieving all of these. Thank you to all of you for supporting me this past year. Although I started this blog in 2008, I really only started blogging regularly this past summer. And in just a few short months, I have discovered more about myself and my style than I ever thought I would. I have made incredible friends who I would do anything for. And I have found something that I am passionate about. Yes, 2009 was an awesome year. But I have a feeling that 2010 is going to be even better!

One last thing, I had it out with Google Reader yesterday and spent hours trying to set it up in the most efficient way possible. I think, in doing so, it made me "unfollow" everyone. If you noticed that I am no longer following your blog, I still am. I just have subscribed to you via Google Reader instead of using the Followers method. It was just getting too tedious and unmanageable. I hope no one is offended. I still love you :)

Alright, I have to go get ready for work. Back to real life. Happy Monday, everyone!

I unearthed more pictures!

2009-12-30T14:46:00.004-05:00

Hiya strangers! Sorry to have disappeared like that but I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday! I definitely did :)
In addition to Christmas and holiday travels, I was overwhelmed with a project for work. You know when your superiors give you something to do with a deadline but have no idea how time-consuming that task actually is? Yeah. It was a nightmare. But I finished late last night and I don't go back to work until Monday. It sort of consumed my life for three weeks but it feels great to know that I'm done and can take advantage of my time off now.
I am still getting a bunch of pictures taken and edited so this will probably be my last post of 2009. I was reorganizing some things on my computer and found pictures from this summer and fall that I hadn't shared yet! So, here you go. Happy New Year and I'll be back for good in a few days!

Dress - F21 / Belt - fabric from Senegal / Necklace and bracelets - gifts from my cousin / Hat - F21 / Sandals - Goodwill (originally from Target)

Top - Viera (boutique on U Street, Washington, DC) / Skirt and socks - Target / Shoes - Off Broadway (can't remember the brand but it wasn't anything fancy) / Ring - art fair in DC

Harem pants - Zara / Tubetop - Victoria's Secret / Blazer - Anne Klein (love the lining!) / Necklace - kiosk in Miami / Shoes - NewportNews.com

Pants - JCrew / Shoes - Bandolino / Vest and top - Zara / Necklace - Laila Rowe / Bracelets - gifts from my cousin

Dress (worn as top) - gift (originally F21) / Skirt - Target / Belt - Belladea (boutique in Columbia, SC) / Boots - Nine West / Blazer - Anne Klein / Flowers - H&M / Necklace - kiosk in Miami

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That (oh, and Merry Christmas)

2009-12-13T21:41:00.010-05:00

I'm trying to clear out my "Unpublished Pictures" folder on my computer. Here are a bunch of outfits I wore before Sophie came, about two months ago. Some were obviously worn when it was warmer outside. Warning: There are a lot of pictures. So, if you're not interested, you won't hurt my feelings if you scroll down to the bottom of the post to read my Christmas greeting.

Top - Alice + Olivia (consigned) / Jeans - Express / Boots - Nine West / Jacket - Zara
Worn to work

Camisole - Banana Republic / Sweater - Banana Republic / Jeans - Express / Scarf - Urban Outfitters / Bag - Coach (consigned) / Boots - Steve Madden
Day at Great Falls National Park

Jeans - Gap (DIY) / Tights - Hue (DIY) / Ankle Boots - Chinese Laundry / Shirt - F21 / Necklace - Ann Taylor / Jacket - Zara
Day spent sightseeing in D.C.

Dress - Zara / Fur vest - Rachel Roy / Cowgirl boots - Cathy Jean / Necklace - purchased at Eastern Market / Bracelet - French Connection
Day spent shopping, duh

Skirt - Lorick / Blouse - Zara / Sweater - Banana Republic / Boots - Nine West / Earrings - Vintage
Worn at work

Jacket - LaRok / Shirt - Express / Jeans - Express / Boots - Nine West / Headband - Club Monaco
Worn at work

Sorry for the picture overload. I hope you enjoyed these outfits even though they are somewhat less exciting than what I normally blog about. I will be taking next week off to focus on the Christmas season. Life has been a little overwhelming lately. I am under a good bit of pressure at work. I got really behind on blogging and picture taking when Sophie was here and that has become stressful. Money is always stressful around the holidays due to all the purchasing of presents and traveling. And watching a loved one hurt is making all of the above seem pointless. Although I have listened to my fair share of Christmas carols already this year and have decorated the tree, it still doesn't feel like Christmas somehow.

So, I am putting aside anything and everything that is stressing me out at the moment (well, except for work, because of that damn money issue I mentioned) and I am going to enjoy myself through the holidays. I am going to take time to be still and reflect on the things that are important to me and my hopes for the new year. I am going to spend time with those I love.

I truly wish every single one of you a happy holiday - no matter which celebration you partake in.

I wish you peace and stillness amidst the cacophony of life. I wish you many smiles and many shoes. But most importantly, I wish you love. Merry Christmas, everyone.

La Rue Neuve

I've Moved!

Gray Skies

Weekend Travels

Work - Play - Recess - Nap

Be Gentle with Yourself

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

Happy Thanksgiving!

Fill in the Blank

A Roller Coaster of a Day

The Old Me

Hello, my name is Natasha.

Hair Today. Gone Tomorrow.

“If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.” - de Lamartime

All is right in the world.

Everything will be alright in the end. If it's not alright, it's not the end.

Rock the Vote!

Why, yes, I am wearing faux snakeskin leggings!

Pretty in Pink... and Purple, and Blue

Sixperiment: Results

More on the "Ground Zero Mosque"

Muslim Friends and Christian Enemies?

The Sixperiment

Priorities

La Rue Neuve

"Ballet is a sort of mystery to me. A mystery I don't wish to unravel."

Namaste

Viva Italia!

Morning Glory

Back in Black

This is why I love fashion

Do vegetarians eat animal crackers? - Author Unknown

Superdress

Goodbye, Winter

Suited Up

Story Telling

Urban Hippie

***SUNSHINE***

Rejuvenation

Where to Shop this Weekend: Current Boutique in Old Town, Alexandria and Clarendon, VA

Zumba!

Words cannot express...

Compassion and Fashion

Thank You, Universe.

...Pardon the interruption in regular programming...

Where to Shop this Weekend: Diva in Old Town, Alexandria

A Generous Spirit

Hitched

"You light up my life..."

Just another manic Monday

Dreaming of Sunshine

Sweats and Stilettos

Playin' Around

Just Me

Where to Shop this Weekend: Shop It To Me

Numb

Ramblings of a Wednesday Morning

Simplicity

Good to be a Girl

Where to Shop this Weekend: Mint Condition in Old Town, Alexandria

Cause for Debate

If I were a shoe...

In denial, utter denial

With or without?

Thank you to the happy people :)

You know what?

Help. Please.

Romance, Schmomance

Guest Post: Nookie from Fashion in My Eyes

Ups and Downs

#Snowverit

Snowmageddon, Snowverkill, Snowpocalypse

Cabin Fever

let's just call this 'the week of boring titles'

I'm really bad at this whole title thing...

untitled because it's too early in the morning to think

**I Got It From My Mama**

Guest Post on Fashion in my Eyes

Mos-key-no

Pay It Forward Winner

SUNSHINE

I Got It From My Mama