The Bling Ring

***WARNING: THIS WILL BE A PUNNY POST***

 

 

So, this weekend I went to see 'The Bling Ring.'  While it wasn't the best film I've ever seen, I think it does look at an interesting and very real part of society under a microscope.  We are all obsessed by technology and fame (myself included).  I mean, I have a blog about how to dress and present yourself well, and while I believe that is an important part of life, it all revolves around other's perceptions of you.  I do have to put in the disclaimer that fashion can actually also boost your view of yourself (which is extremely beneficial), however most of the subjective areas of style are personal opinions.  It's a vain and tough area of this world, but it's also a huge part of life in the 21st century.  I write this blog to help people better navigate this portion of their lives.  But for a different point of view, I thought 'The Bling Ring' was a creative (and sadly true) glimpse at the ugly backlash obsessing over others can have.  Plus, it makes for a great post title about rings.  So, keeping in mind my belief that there is a balance between other's ideas and your own, let's delve into some of the rings I'm loving on Polyvore right now. 

 

XOXO,
Anonymous

P.S. Another reason to see the movie: Emma Watson is fabulous!



Trending: Sweet Leather

There's something about the juxtaposition of hard and soft that intrigues me.  Earlier this week I wore an outfit consisting of a pale pink lace skirt (vintage shop find) a plain black tank, a rough jean vest and a vintage clock necklace.  Personally, I loved the outfit, and I can't tell you how many compliments I received.  Lately, it's just those kind of hard pieces, paired over (or with) the sweetest items ever, that give an outfit quirk, intrigue, edge and, yes, style.  So, moving from denim to a more upscale way to go punk, I thought I'd share my thoughts on the mixing of leather with girly-er pieces.  The shorts above are ones I absolutely adore.  They mix classy (but tough) leather with a delicate lace pattern.  They're understated enough not to overpower an outfit, but a simple top plus mild (and perhaps vintage) accessories would compliment them perfectly (and not be an understatement in the slightest).  If you're not sure how to style this particular piece exactly right, here's a board to teach you! 

 

XOXO,
Anonymous

P.S. For more boards like this one, check out my Polyvore (@fabfashiondiaries)

 

Covet or Love It

I'm a girl who loves to find beautiful pieces for almost no money.  That's not to say I never splurge, but there is a certain thrill in finding a bargain (which I detailed in my last post).  Whenever I'm on Polyvore it strikes me how wide a price range they have.  While you can easily filter the clothing to a manageable budget using their tools, it's interesting to see the expensive beside the inexpensive (and sometimes not be able to tell the difference).  On Cupcakes and Cashmere (I know, I talk about that blog way too much) there is a type of post where she picks one piece and finds one pricey and one cheap(er) version.  While it's a great post, we all have different body types, different needs and different tastes.  So, I've decided to take it up a notch with three different pieces for several occasions, all with the same, classic pattern of black and white stripes.  Here are pieces that we can covet alongside dresses that are equally cute, but affordable, so that you can love them for a long time. 

Hope you enjoy!

XOXO,

Anonymous

Seeing Double

 

This dress is a perfect piece for switching from casual to fancy.  Just add leather accessories and you're good to walk the town, but add sparkles and heels, and suddenly you are ready for a party.  Pair it with this sequined purse I'm dying over, or this more dressed down leather one.  Either way, you'll be on the best dressed list.

Yesterday I attempted to go vintage shopping with a few of my friends.  I say attempted because the skirt I bought wasn't legit vintage, and they didn't buy anything.  Granted, we only went to one store and didn't have much time, it was still clear how much harder vintage shopping is versus looking through regular stores.  For one, thrift stores often only have the garment in one size.  Plus, it might be stained, ripped or have some other small but important detail that caused it to be deposited in the first place.  Now, we were at a more select boutique store, so there weren't many ripped cases, but a few shirts had (minor) stains that I had a hard time imagining coming out.  Another trial of vintage shopping is the sheer fact that most of the things are old, so there is a good chance they aren't in style anymore.  The trick is finding pieces that you can bring into the modern age, but obviously tacky housecoats are never going to make it to any fashionista's closet (at least not this year).  For all these reasons, vintage stores might not be as rewarding as other, more commercial shops.  But, if you dig, it's always amazing to find the perfect piece, for a fraction of the price.  For example, yesterday wasn't such a bust in the vintage jewelry department, as I found an older, but still adorable ring, for only three dollars!  Now my friends and I are planning a new vintage adventure, this time armed with our greatest tool...patience. 

Going for serious Gothic and 80's flair, these two outfits are definitely over the top and not for everyday use.  But find the right occasion, and lace drama is perfect.  As for the outfit on the right, it could work for a casual day, but I understand it's unconventional.  I mean, I put a skirt over a dress (note: this dress is sold out), which may leave some of you hopelessly confused.  But the truth is, if you have the right lengths so that it's a seamless combination, I've never understood the normal rules of layering.  Anything is possible!

 

This board, which I made with my bestie, is one of my favorites.  She has a very laid back sense of style, and I think it comes through in this collab.  Aviators are her go-to sunglasses, so they were a must, and her uniform shoe (sandals) added to the beach-y vibe.  The denim vest is me (of course), as are the prim earrings (note: these earrings are sold out, but there are similar ones) and spiked white heels (only $79.99).  Overall, this board is truly a blend of both of us. 

 

Oh yes, I'm bringing you sparkle shorts.  Because why not?  Well, apart from the fact that you probably can't sit in these.  But that is a small problem.  Can't you see the big picture?  These are ADORABLE.  And I love an outfit where you can punch it out with bright accessories (purse, earrings) and it works perfectly.  Plus, bright teal makeup (nail polish, eyeliner) won't push this over the top, which is crazy, because it's sparkles and teal.  And it's not too much.  So yes, I'm in love.  We've made sparkles a neutral (including this top).  Also, those polka-dot sunglasses just gave me a shot of happiness.

 

 Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties, I can't upload the last board, so you'll just have to wait for the next Seeing Double.  I know you're sad. 

Kisses,
Anonymous

Seeing Double

Yes, it's yet another new type of post for the blog! My Polyvore has been doing really well in the short time since I started it, so I think I'll bring my most common type of post on there, here to the blog.  The basic idea is taking one key piece and dressing it up or down.  I've featured a few of these boards in various posts, but now I'm making a specific post series for the pictures.  So, without further ado, here is "Seeing Double"

This first set contains the same pair of adorable leggings from Rare London (rarelondon.com, $16, Rare London Printed Atzec Leggings, found through Polyvore).  On the left is a much more dressed up version, with the blazer and higher end jewelry.  While these particular pants may never fly in some office settings, this look could be perfect for more casual places of business.  On the right, a much more punk look awaits.  For those of us who shy away from black and spikes (ME!) just get rid of the hat and bag and replace them with a more classic look.  You'll still look put together and casual, but this is proof little changes can change so much. 

 

When browsing various street-fashion sites, I am always seeing this Celine shirt pop up ($10, c2coffer.com).  On the left, you see it paired with upscale pieces, including this coral bag that's just to die for (even if it is a bit of a splurge).  To the right, the shirt is dressed down with ripped jeans and one of the cutest polka dot clutches ever (again, pricey)! As in the last set, switch out the necklace and the wash of the jeans for a totally different vibe. 

Holy lord, this sunflower crop top is one of my favorites I've found, mostly because of the price.  The left side look features my ideas on how to style it beauty wise (most of the stuff is from Neiman Marcus, but you can obviously find similar colors for cheaper).  The casual look features leggings, a trend I was hesitant to jump on to (Lulu's are cute, but underwear lines are tacky). However, with the right undergarments (please be careful, ladies, no one wants to see that), I think that leggings are an easy, comfortable style for a day off. 

And finally, two takes on this vintage poodle dress (price unknown).  Along with some beauty tips, both sides showcase quirky glam pieces, including this sarcasm bracelet and these adorable (and cheap) bow heels.  The spiky purse is an adorable way to punk-up an outfit too!
So, there you are, four pieces for the upscale environment or the casual day.  I hope you've enjoyed, and go check out my Polyvore profile (information on About This Blog).

Kisses,

Anonymous

 

P.S.  Check out this amazing link! Seriously genius ideas to DIY Anthropology style.

Holiday Gift Guide Edition Two: $35-$200

Recently I did some sprucing up around the blog (new background, new icon) and I really like how it turned out.  Do I look professional? ;)

Anyway, here is the next installment of the Holiday Gift Guide Edition Two, this one broken down with gifts for everyone who's important to you, with prices reasonable but still enough to get that something special for those special someones. 

Boyfriend/Husband/Fiance/Male Counterpart:

These amazing noise-cancelling Bose headphones are only $162 and will have any music lover loving you!


Mom and Dad:

This delectable Holiday Tower of Treats form the ever amazing Harry and David is the perfect way to remind mom and dad just how sweet you think they are (did you catch the pun?).  $59.95 at Harry and David


Best Friends:

Every bestie deserves something special at holiday time and this dress from Polyvore will take her through the New Year and the parties that come with it in style.  Plus, at only $130, you can buy her these heel too...

...AND LOOK, THEY MATCH! (Also from Polyvore, $40)

Girlfriends:
And for any guys reading this, I have you covered too...

This silver and black diamond pendant from JCP has the perfect amount of romance and beauty.  Plus, it's only $100!


I hope this has help you with the tricky task of gift buying!

Kisses,
Anonymous