Spandex Pony

New Chapter....

2010-11-01T16:03:00.000-04:00

Dear Blog-Perusing Family and Friends,

You can find me at an all-new address! Better Living Through Squidulism is my new internet home. Thank you all for your readership and support!

Yours,

Elissa.

Dear Diary.

2010-07-18T03:51:00.000-04:00

I remember my very first diary. Every Christmas, my elementary school would have a gift sale set up in the gym, so students could buy their family inexpensive presents. Jewelry, wind-up toys and money clips were the usual suspects. This particular first-grade year, I spied a single pink diary sitting atop a bunch of (snore) other children's books. It bore that hallmark that all diaries deemed desirous to young girls must have-- a lock and key. The sweaty, crumpled bills I'd earned by dutifully practicing violin couldn't leave my coat pocket fast enough.

I remember that the diary smelled sweet, like new toys from Japan do; and I wrote in it feverishly with a pen that had a snowman on a spring bobbling from the top. Sometimes it was about my crush, a swarthy classmate named Evan, other times I just made up stories about dogs. Because I shared a room with my little brother, who in my mind was merely sent to destroy, it was not enough that there was a lock on my diary-- I invented a code with which to confide. Any thought of anyone reading my diary struck abject fear in my 6-year-old heart. No, my coded ruminations on swing-set glances and heroic, sea-faring German Shepherds would stay safe from prying eyes, under lock and key, inside of my pillow case.

When I was 14, I was still writing in diaries; but I had decided that the best way to go about it was without suffering the indignity of having every day's dramas and epiphanies go showboating around in Lisa Frank. I started writing on loose-leaf kept simply, bound in a blue binder, hiding in plain sight. Who cares to look through a high-schooler's binders? I cheekily Sharpied "History" on its cover. This new method also jibed with my interest in conservation; with a 2" binder, I'd never have to buy a new diary again. I could just keep filling it with more of that recycled loose-leaf that --at the time-- looked kind of dirty in keeping with its post-consumer waste origins.

I spent a couple of years with this blue binder, until I became alarmed that, all the time I was becoming a different person, and yet these markers and milestones were just buried one under the other looking crappy and unimportant. I needed a new diary. Something for this year. Something that would be big enough to write florid narratives about how Jack Kerouac was inspiring me to boddhisatva-ism and that I needed a trench coat, a cool knife and an opium-laden thinker's existence in Morocco. However, this new volume also had to have a limited number of pages, for when I decided that being a junkie was for boys and that I had re-evaluated and was now going to commit my life to following Billy Corgan around and spiritually healing the elderly through Ecstasy.

Fast forward to the present in which I understand that Billy Corgan is a douchebag and that most of my interactions with the elderly revolve around watching crime shows. In my possession, I have about ten diaries, and those are the ones that I haven't (horrors!!) lost. They go up to 2007, at which point I ditched the pen and paper and started a blog about fashion, because fashion has always been kind of a pervy little secret between me and my magazines. I could exorcise it with pictures and prose, and not only that, get feedback and be part of a community of shoe-slobbering, thrift-store trooping, obscurity-relishing, proportion-pondering, wielders of artful clash. And, I managed to-- with as little shame possible considering my religious background-- take some rather smashing photos of myself as well. Never under-estimate the power of good posture and lighting.

But, lately, things are starting to smack of my blue binder. New things are happening, and they deserve a place of their own. I feel at odds piling them one on top of each other, lost in the greater whole. But this time, it's not just a personal diary I write the last page of, and close the book. There is no lock and key, and people read. And, gauging by how I feel when I visit others' blogs, they come because they're interested, they want to know what's going on; they come to be entertained. This blog has not only served as one of the most self-relevatory and gratifying journal experiences, but, judging by Google Analytics and your comments, it has also been a source of entertainment for kind-hearted, creative and curious you. It's a wonder.

An old diary is satisfying to say good-bye to; my custom is to flip back to the first page and write the first and last dates of my entries with a flouish, and the word "to" in between. Then I put it in a drawer and cheerfully crack open the next blank notebook, smelling the newness before committing my pen to this volume's first date. But here, it's as if there are people living inside my diary, that, if I shut the book I shut it on them. Anyone starting to read this post now is convinced I spent too much time in my trench coat in Morocco. But if you've been following all along, thank you for enjoying my blog with me for the past 2.5 years. It's insane how attached I feel to it, and readers are a great, big part of that.

But for now, it's on to the next chapter. On to the new. I'm closing the binder now.

Yours,

Elissa.

Fireworks and Choppers.

2010-07-03T11:32:00.000-04:00

Jacket: thrifted. Eyelet Dress: Forever 21. Leggings: Macy's. Shoes: Nine West.

Here in my burg, the fireworks were put on tonight. My Sweetness dusted off the motorcycle, and we rode down to the river to watch, but not without some minor hemming and hawing from yours truly. You see, my dear dad has instilled in me a deep and abiding fear of these machines. He seems to know a lot of people that have died on them, and the one who didn't had facial reconstructive surgery so intense that she doesn't even look like the same person anymore.

So, I spent the first ten minutes of this ride to the fireworks silently saying good-bye to my limbs and trying to figure out if, in a collision, if I should try to land head-first since that was the only thing that was protected. Clearly, I've survived, and in fact have deemed riding a motorcycle to see some fireworks to be the very best way to see them. In fact, I'm going to get to do it this way twice--

Today, we're taking a week's vacation to the beaches of North Carolina, staying in a rented beach house with some friends. We're taking the motorcycle with us, for beach-side riding adventures (I figure the sand will make for a soft landing)... we're having a luau, getting to see fireworks again on the 4th, and I have packed only red, white and blue articles of clothing... including one tiny red polka-dot skirt that I recently created from a giant, matronly one.

Happy 4th of July to all! Eat lots of fried chicken, listen to ZZ Top and ride yer hogs!! Huzzah!

Independently Yours,

Elissa.

Lead balloons.

2010-07-02T00:08:00.000-04:00

Jacket: thrifted. Necklace: gifted. Shoes: Nine West. Dress: Grandview Weekend Outlet, purveyors of years-old Target merchandise with tags still on, altered by yours truly and a pair of Fiskars.

Thanks all for your comments on my last post, whether on the post, emailed, or in person... keep 'em coming. I'm feeling especially primed to hear others' opinions lately.

Last night was another stand-up night, and my first that didn't really go very well. It was a tough crowd, and even the most experienced comedians were having a rough go of it... that, and I was trying out all new material.. but who WOULDN'T laugh about inter-species relations, NAMBLA and one hell of a number two? Jerks, that's who.

But really, you can never blame the audience. Sure, a late-night drinking audience full of intelligent people with a depth of pop-culture knowledge is the ideal, but that's not always what you get... the hope is that you can be funny to all, or just shitty with grace. Me thinks grace is easier to cultivate than universal hilarity.

I am actually glad to have had a relatively bad night... just to prove to myself that my ability to go to my safe place is unshakeable. "I am sitting with a fawn in a sun-dappled glen.... I am sitting with a fawn in a sun-dappled glen...."

Above, the ensemble I wore to the whole affair... the dress used to be a maxi dress, but upon bringing it home, I discovered its horrific A-Line shape that made me look like any chess piece other than the knight. So, I cut it off into this asymmetrical flamenco-y hem. I wore this to work, and like a lot of things I wear to work, I only realize their indecency once I get there. One of my bosses did compliment me on it, but it was also her last day and she was drunk and full of cake and meatballs. Therefore.... this is a dress better suited to a barbecue...

Til later,

Elissa.

Bowie, Can you Rreeaaad Me?

2010-06-29T09:21:00.000-04:00

I seem to be having a bit of an image-posting problem at the moment! I tend to not want to post if I don't have pictures, but pictures be damned! Here we go.

I recently received a very nice comment from reader Alya, who suggested I write more posts like this one. I have to admit that it may be the first time any one has directly told me, "I like this, do more of it."

So I'd like to pose the question to all of you, and I would love, love, love to hear from each and every one of you so I can understand exactly why you come and read! If you've been reading a while, you'll know there are some types of posts that I've drifted away from, such as the "here is a theoretically cool outfit" post and "here are 5 dresses I like that adhere to a price-point/theme" and also "listen to this/watch this video", mostly because they didn't generate as many comments as straight outfit posts, but I'd like to know exactly what you guys come here for so that I can use your thoughts as my blogging compass.

Thank you in advance,

Elissa.

UGH! Or, the story of why I never buy anything online.

2010-06-24T00:37:00.000-04:00

Why should it be that one of my all-time favorite brands is one which I rarely ever buy anything from? Oh yes-- that's it-- because it's J.Crew and I'm a chickadee of simple means. But, I got in my email box today a notice that all sale items were an additional 30% off until midnight, so I gamely picked out a few things, then deleted almost all of them from my cart except for these lovely Tretorns...

The white rubber and gold-inflected canvas are perfect for summer anything, and at the "sale on sale" price, only $38. OK. Then, my interfering mind chimed in. It said, "Do you really need more shoes?" "Can you find something more practical to spend $38 on?" "You've never even seen these shoes before, and there are some that you have been wanting for longer. As long as you're venturing to spend $38, why not put it towards something you've actually been wanting?"

The shoes I've been wanting are another pair of Toms... During the 2008 election, I did a lot of work for the Campaign for Change, and found it meet to show my political proclivities with a pair of natural canvas Toms that said "Vote" on one shoe, and had a graphic of a donkey on the other. Now that the election is over (I think it was my shoes that swung the vote), it seems silly to wear them around now. I haven't until recently, when I found them under the couch and decided to try them on again. I took them on a walk around the neighborhood. These are damn comfortable shoes, readers, better than flip-flops. Having examined it from every angle, there really is no way to resurrect this dated style, and so a new pair of Toms is in order.

Behold, the burlap pair. I love solid colors that are highly textured, and this definitely fits the bill. But, I did read some bad reviews about the burlap coming apart, and then I decided to look into getting the natural canvas pair (none in my size) or the gray pair (is gray a falling star in the color-trends world yet?) or the blue pair (too mannish) or the red pair (not versatile enough). I returned to the Tretorns.

But wait! I thought-- I have a gift card to Urban Outfitters. Maybe they carry Toms? Or maybe they have some slip-ons that would be just as cute as the ones my friend has with whales all over them? Yes, Virginia, they do!

They're the right color, and they have this amazing deer print on them. God knows I'm a sucker for deer. Plus, I'm going on vacation soon with a few friends, one of them has a pathological fear of deer. I could wear the shoes and it would be a hilarious joke for us all to enjoy, and I could terrorize her with them all week long. And then again, my annoying inner voice said, "But aren't deer more like a Christmas thing?" "Is this too tongue-in-cheek?" "Tretorns are so classy. These.... aren't."

So I returned to the Tretorns. But they have laces, I thought... I love the appeal of just throwing ones shoes on as you skip out of your bungalow down the pier. But Tretorns are sexy. I returned to the Tretorns. I pried my credit card out of my wallet, all the time saying, "Hm... this is a week's worth of parking and two really good lunches worth of shoes." I entered my information. I entered the coupon code. And then--- what the what??? I was timed out of my session! I frantically re-did the whole process, only to find that by the time I got to the checkout, the coupon code had expired, and the shoes were no longer $38 with free shipping, but now $55. And as long as they're $55, I may as well buy a pair of Toms and use a $5 off coupon code from RetailMeNot. Or maybe I'll just use my gift card to Urban Outfitters. Or maybe I'll just see if I can be happy with what I already have....

AKKKKKKKKKKKKK

Anyone else have these problems???

Yours,

Elissa.

Little floral skirt.

2010-06-22T22:21:00.001-04:00

Shirt: TJ Maxx. Everything else: Thrifted.

Today is the first time I've tried to "work-ify" this skirt; scandalous? Maybe. The slightest updraft is dangerous, indeed, as is the slight sheerness to the skirt. Couple that with the fact that my shoes are dying a hideous, awful death and this outfit veers perilously close to FML territory. However, things remained in balance and the breezy skirt felt summery, casual and cheerful, and the flat shoes kept things from getting too slutty. Let's take a moment and honor the last wearing of these shoes...

Here are a few other ways in which I've worn this skirt:

With blacks and grays, very austere...

Hm... very similar actually! Looks like I enjoy pairing this belt with this skirt...

Mixing patterns up... I ended up giving this necklace to a friend. I hope she loves it! I'm missing it, looking at it now...

Yours,

Elissa.

What's goin' on.

2010-06-22T22:13:00.000-04:00

I feel bad. I haven't had as much time lately to devote to blogging, and I feel like I'm wasting something or letting somebody down-- but what I'm wasting and whom I'm letting down are unclear.

I'm at a strange point right now. I had an interview last week for a position that by all rights is just the thing that I have been trying to do since I graduated last year-- being a merchant. But I went in, this time, with the mentality that I was also interviewing this place of work-- I wasn't just being interviewed by them. They described a work environment that seemed stressful and overwhelming-- when I asked what a typical day's hours were, there was no definitive answer. One of the interviewers said she had even once worked a 23-hour day. Technically, they said, a work day should be 8:30-6pm, but that was more theory than practice.

This place was also a 45-minute commute from home. I didn't consider this lightly. For the first time in my life, I pre-emptively rejected the position; and not just any position, but one I've been angling for, for like, forever. I know myself, and I know that having a work life that supercedes all other aspects of one's life whittles me down fast. No matter what it is that I'm doing, I need relief from doing it; and if I'm not in control of when I come or go, I get ants in my pants. And not cute picnic ants, but red, fire-breathing, corpse-munching ants.

I wrote the interviewers an email and let them know that the position wasn't in line with my desire for balance in my life, but the chapter isn't completely closed for me. Sometimes I'm afraid that the rabid squirrel in my brain that is ADD sabotaged me. Maybe I wouldn't have such a need for "quiet time" if I were properly medicated. Maybe I would have taken the long view and said, "Screw it, I'm going in. There's health insurance and some more money and maybe some choice promotions at the end of this road." Maybe, maybe, maybe.

But, I am of the opinion that most things happen for a reason... and besides, this didn't "happen", I chose it. And I did have my reasons. I just hope that there's something out there in the fashion universe for me to do that doesn't involve working constantly around the clock (as it seems most positions do), or maybe there's something else out there for me to do that I wouldn't mind working constantly around the clock, and all other things would just naturally fall into place around it.

We'll see. For now, I'm running late to see and possibly participate in an open-mike, different venue this time.

Yours,

Elissa.

Pussy bow fever.

2010-06-17T23:58:00.000-04:00

All day long, I thought, "Somebody, please ask me what this thing on my neck is, please!!" I was so desperate to blithely inform them, "Pussy bow." "Take a look at my giant pussy bow, boys. Matter of fact, take a picture cuz the pussy bow don't hang around forever."

Shirt: thrifted. Skirt: Target. Shoes: Steve Madden. Belt: Victoria's Secret. Scarf: Found on the street! Shades: 80spurple.

This look evolved out of some laziness. I woke up, feeling like putting on clothes was the very last thing I wanted out of life. But, I decided the closest thing might be to just wear a chambray chirt and a khaki skhirt. Alone, they might give off a casual, American flair, I thought. I was wrong. I riffled through the drawers to come up with some black to add zing to an otherwise Wal-marty palette.

What can I say? I added the sunglasses, and I felt all prowly and whatnots. For having thrown together some rather disparate elements-- khaki skirt, patent belt, untucked shirt, lizard shoes, the end result felt quite alright.

Til later,

Elissa.

Shady!!

2010-06-15T23:25:00.001-04:00

Heeeerreeees Johnny!

Shirt: TJ Maxx. Tiered Skirt: TJ Maxx. Shoes: JC Penney. Sunglasses: 80spurple.

What the hell? Why yes, these are the third pair of sunglasses that I sprung for on a dark and stormy night. As some comedian other than myself once said, it's nice sometimes, to shop online on a head full of wine, because, come a few days later, your mailbox is full of mystery presents you forgot were coming to ya.

Score! I'm loving these, and I love to flip them up on people instead of guilelessly removing them from my face. You see, these sunglasses have evolved. Speaking of "score!" and "evolved", I'm happy to say that this entire look, head to toe, was $46.

I broke.

Also speaking of "evolving", the guy who runs a sketch comedy group in town has asked if I would write a skit for the show... I'm super flattered and pumped as hell--- visions of skits revolving around texting while driving, super-annoying cats and Bombshell McGee are floating through my head-- if it could be said that a skinhead chick with a neck tattoo floats through one's head.

And now, off to cogitate...

Yours,

Elissa.

Nailed.

2010-06-14T00:08:00.000-04:00

Nothing makes me feel "prepared" quite like having my nails done. I have to be prepared for this week, so I set out to the nearest nail place, armed with a bottle of orange polish.

OPI In My Back Pocket, Espadrilles: Colin Stuart.

Finding none of the usual joints open on a Sunday, I passed a Wal-Mart that happened to have a nail place in it, and decided to see if a) it was open, b) if it was cheap, and c) if it might be the place to go in the future. Well, it was open and it was cheap. As for condition C? I have never had such a painful and traumatic nail experience. I feel like a POW. I was too shocked by the situation to think about asking not to pay for it (and also I didn't want to embarrass the guy, who otherwise was friendly and nice), but damn. I need to go back there and say something, because even now it still hurts, and I can't have it interfering with my game...! I just joined an Ultimate Frisbee league and I have a game tomorrow... I need all fingers present and accounted for!

Have you ever had a bad salon experience?? What did you do about it?

Yours,

Elissa.

Jerry Orbach can wait, I have presents from the thrift store.

2010-06-10T23:44:00.000-04:00

I can't say that I "don't do pants", but for someone who lives in Columbus, OH --home to both Abercrombie jeans, Express jeans, and Midwestern people-- it could be said that I don't do pants.

Timex bag: Target via Grandview Weekend Outlet. Scarf: Thrifted. Jacket: Macy's. Tank: Urban Outfitters. Pants: Old Navy. Shoes: JC Penney.

Today, I do pants. The last time I wore black flares was in 2001, when I went on a trip to England and-- for versatility's sake and ease of packing, the only bottoms I bought were a pair of stretchy black flares (shudder) and a pair of UFO pants-- silver. The rave scene came late to my corner of the universe, and by the time I got to the U.K., I could do some glow-stick poi that could blow your mind-- if anyone there wasn't so past 1995. I'll have to dig those pictures up, if I can find any where I'm not being obscene.... Americans.

Nowadays, my black flares are crafted of the finest denim Old Navy has to offer in their clearance department, and they are perfect for days when I wake up, look at the alarm clock, and say-- how can I be washed and decently non-naked in the next 6 minutes? Time crunches, my friends.

I really have to remember not to eat seafood anymore. The last several times I have, I've become violently ill, and yet it's siren song lures me to its lurid pleasures every time I dry back out. Last night, after I performed (once again), I sought late-night refuge in some leftover soup from the Thai place... leftover seafood soup. The first half of today was wobbly to say the least.

As soon as I arrived home, I jumped in the chair and flipped on Law & Order. My sweetness pulled into the driveway and said, "Jerry Orbach can wait. I have surprises from the thrift store." Behold:

A needlepoint JFK in a scrolly frame... I can definitely picture my mom having this on her wall as a teenager! Although needlecraft is not necessarily the domain of those between the ages of 11 and 80... Who do you think had this on their wall?

The sweetest bag of all time!!! I'm only mildly into astrology as a practice, but as a decorative motif, I am bananas. If it's zodiac-related, I'm hooked. Couple that with the "Love is..." style art, collage-y look, unconventional wording and the fact that my own little sign is right on top, I am smitten...

Here's a wider shot of the bag... we've got Cancer, Virgo and Aries here... oh my sweetness and his fancy taste!!

Til next time,

Yours,

Elissa.

Shoes, pills, eagles.

2010-06-07T13:20:00.001-04:00

Vest: H&M in Amsterdam. Dress: Forever 21. Bag: Thrifted. Shoes: Nine West. Cuff: Cedar Point.

I received a nice compliment today from the Fed Ex guy, who has told me that every day-- when our paths intersect as I go across the street for a coffee-- he notices my shoes. Any trace of incredulity in my mind was assuaged as he began to rattle off my shoes: "The gold ones that lace, the ones that have lions on them, the silver sandals with seahorses..." Amazing! Or weird, depending which Flickr groups you belong to.

It's just the nature of the beast that accessories are cheaper than clothes-- well, my beast. Yours might be different. Part of my problem is I don't like to buy inexpensive clothing because it never fits (except at Forever 21... curious...), so I buy clothes almost never. Therefore, I always find that the most interesting part of my get-up is typically the accessories, but I don't really devote many photos to them-- I think it embarasses me to put my stuff "under the microscope". Ah well... voila the second of my three pairs of sunglasses.... the still catty, though less markedly so, tortoiseshell pair.

Shades: 80spurple. Ring: Target

The ring is clear acrylic (one of my favorite ring-types) filled with what looks like pills. I love the pukey pink color and the subversiveness of its contents. Not shown, due to my non-microscopic tendencies, is my cuff which I got at Cedar Point, an amusement park near here, when I was 12. It's tooled with a U.S. flag and an eagle, and looks pretty bad-ass. I'm patriotic only in the most spiritual of senses (maybe a topic for later discussion?), but I do love American symbols-- what's to hate about a good star spangling? Though wearing them is another topic entirely, and one usually met by derision-- seriously. Gauge how you feel next time you pass someone wearing a shirt with an American flag on it. But having it on my little cuff is kind of low-key and possibly subversive as well. And if anyone asks, I have a pet eagle.

Til later,

Elissa.

Case of the Confounding Dress

2010-06-03T15:19:00.000-04:00

Dress: Banana Republic. Shoes: Steve Madden. Shades: 80s Purple.

I don't know what it is with this dress. It and I have a confounding relationship. It was actually picked out for me by my Sweetness, and-- as the compliments that flow from him whenever I wear it would lead me to believe-- it's probably my best look evarrr. But the thing is like a hologram. I love the color, and in front of the mirror at home, it's a-ok. But throughout the day, I'll catch myself in reflections and the frumptastic, overly-boobish, pooch-exemplifying nature of this dress flashes maliciously back at me. In fact, as I was driving home, I thought-- that's it! This thing is going straight to Goodwill. I'll take outfit photos and entitle my blog post RIP Nightmare Dress. Then I took a couple of photos and thought-- eh, this thing isn't so bad! Maybe I judged too quickly! And that is the ordeal I go through every time I wear this dress.

Probably it's because it's out of my normal range of thing-wearing, in that it ties further up than I'm accustomed, highlighting the girls, which typically I try to keep as streamlined as possible. Also, I kind of hate jersey for its clingy properties, and typically go for wovens. So maybe, if I put Sal-like logic to the problem, it doesn't matter what I actually look like in it-- its outside of my boundaries in a way that makes me not feel my best when I wear it. So I toss it out on its ear.

Something that is going right today??

Hot shades!

These Wang-esque cat-eye shades. The other night, I was paralyzed in front of the computer with 4 pairs of sunglasses in my shopping cart, but with 2 sunglasses worth in my Paypal. None of the pairs would budge and I resigned myself to the sad thought that I may, in fact, just bite the bullet and buy 4 pairs of sunglasses. When, lo and behold, an Etsy order came in right at the moment for the exact amount of all 4 and the "buy" button was gleefully clicked-- though not without finally ruling out one pair. I don't know about you, but it's easier for me to not spend money when I actually have some. Hmph! So this is the first of three-- I can't wait to present them all to you in moving photo-essay format...

Til then,

Elissa.

Exhausted!

2010-06-02T00:06:00.000-04:00

Let's take a break and indulge in some cat porn. Why? In short, I am mega tired and have my fingers in too many pies at the moment. Writing is how I like to unwind, so it annoys me that I don't even have time to do that-- I'm looking at the clock going--- mmm okay, that's 5 hours and 34 minutes of sleep, if I don't take a shower...

So while I figure out some good ways to sleep while awake, let's meditate on my own little kitty here, so very good at what she does.

Maybe "cat porn" should be a regular feature...

I just got a box full of all the sunglasses of my fantasies, so expect to see them on me shortly, oh so shortly.

Yours,

Elissa.

Celebrate, betch!

2010-05-29T20:52:00.001-04:00

"Yeah, I made this hat" he told me.

Every now and then we like to throw a huge party... we've never had a yard before, so we're doing it up with a fire to sit around, we're smoking 30 lbs of meat (vegetarians, look away!), and we're projecting a movie on the side of our garage. I'm pretty much the definition of hot mess right now-- I ran 4 miles, weeded, cleaned the (shudder) toilet, raked grass clippings, removed grime from patio furniture and... picked a winner for the Louis Anthony Jewelers Pearl Earrings Contest!! Don't worry, the prize is being sent from the jewelers themselves, so I can't get any of my schmutz on them. I turned to the randomness professionals at Random.org to produce a winner...

.... and the lovely and talented Eyeliah of Style Symmetry has nabbed herself some pearls earrings! I'll be in contact with you shortly!

A big wet, sloppy thanks to all of you who participated, tweeted, blogged, and followed! Your participation warms a girl's heart. Hope you all enjoy your long weekend!!

Yours,

Elissa.

Don't sweat the petty things, and don't pet the sweaty things.

2010-05-27T00:32:00.000-04:00

You can't spell smuggy without muggy.

As mentioned in my last post, this walking to work thing is beneficial to my health but World War III on my "fresh feeling". Here I am, after work, about 3 minutes before everything came off and I cooled out in a t-shirt in front of the open fridge.

Scarves. Who needs them, especially on a hot day? It served me well in the air-conditioned office, but when it came time to trek home, I flopped it over one shoulder, thusly. My dad has always been a fan of unconventional stylings. In my experimental youth, I might emerge from my room with a long dress and a crazy hat on, in between outfits, and he'd say, "My, that's elegant and unusual," with wondering admiration. I felt he might also feel the same about my scarfage. Whaddya think? Sari, or baby sling?

Before I go, I would like to mention that as of.... NOW there are 12 more hours left to enter the contest! Do it, and do it well!

Yours,

Elissa.

[Blouse: Gap. Skirt: Kaspar. Shoes: Nine West. Scarf: Gift from a friend.]

Boo, quak quak, keek!

2010-05-25T22:42:00.000-04:00

Now that I'm walking the 5-mile round-trip to work and back, I look sweatier than Jason Davis when I get home. So, while outfit sharing has been foiled for today, I have in store for you a collection of my favorite things... it's like a tiny little electronic pop-culture magazine!

Page 1: Music.

This is the song that has, happily, been stuck in my head all day. There's something about summer that lights a hankering for Brazilian Girls deep within my heart. And after all, don't we all just want a giant puffy dress and to have a good time?

Just press play and enjoy the tune (though there may be an ad at the beginning... ugh...) while you read on... !

Page 2: Art

Reader Viola has turned me on to the art of Diego Gravinese. His paintings are hyper-realistic, candid snapshots, with amazing detail and bright colors, with some elements of collage. Blah, blah, blah... they're freakin' beautiful!

Page 3: Diet Tips

Ever since my ill-fated trip to the dentist, I've been doing what only the truly nebbish do: brushing my teeth after every meal. Not only am I ready to hold a conversation about anything starting with the letter "h" with anyone at any time now, but I think I've lost a couple of pounds on account that now I think twice before snacking because I'll have to brush my teeth again.

Tiffany Liu

Page 4: Fashion-- turn to the left!

I was typically a Weardrobe fan, until I took a better look at Chictopia. While their "chic-rating" system is lambasted by some, I actually like giving and getting feedback, plus their system is loads more organized and easy to use. I especially enjoy browsing looks by body type. One of my current favorite Chictopians is Franco Fernandez... I love her filmy layers, dark red crop, and intensely cool (typically gigantic) accessories.

Page 5: Contest

Have you entered the contest? No? Well there's still time-- 2 more days, in fact! Click here to enter to win a pair of 7mm freshwater pearl earrings courtesy of Louis Anthony Jewelers.

Awright awright! My Sweets is currently into making milkshakes, and there is one waiting for me right now, downstairs melting surely as I write. So, I sign off here and grab my reward!

Yours,

Elissa.

K-kinda busy...

2010-05-23T22:02:00.002-04:00

Many of our neighbors are into the drag scene. Last weekend, one neighbor had a garage sale, and we went over to formally introduce ourselves (even though we've lived here, like, 6 months. We just aren't neighbor-meeting types.)

He took us down to the basement, to the "drag lab" and it was a-freakin-mazing. Wigs of every style and color, scepters and sashes, a giant vanity with a mirror lined in bulbs. The crowning glory of the room was the giant, commercial sewing machine and serger used for creating gowns, gowns and even more sparkly, spangly, ruched, ruffled gowns.

My sweets asked if they made any men's clothes, to which they answered that it would be a welcome change! We're going to the beach in July for a week, and he's dying to get a one-piece, 1920's-style swimsuit. But, he's a man of imposing proportions, so most standard-sized clothing doesn't fit him-- and seeing as the only place to get such a swimsuit would be online (virtually guaranteeing fit problems), he'd rather it just be made. He was hoping that I would take on the task, but-- while I do own a sewing machine, garment construction is not really my forte. I'm not a stickler for details and impatient as well, and those are things you need to be to create something to be worn. He handed over a sketch he'd made to the neighbors and they said-- sure!! Grab some fabric and we'll get to work!

Round glasses are cool, but octagon-shaped ones are better.

I said, "I can't even believe that you've never been to school for any of this! I have and you trump me-- like, over and over again!"

And the neighbor said, "You went to school for fashion design?"

And I said, "Oh yeah."

The neighbor said, "Well I've seen what you wear, would you design a dress for me?"

And I said, after much spluttering, "Of course!! I would love to!" and then, "do you like Lady Gaga?" Idiot!, I thought.

"Hellooooooo!!! I love Lady Gaga! Can you design me something like that?"

This created a flood of exclamations of "Duh!" "Hot!" "Work!" "Shit!" "Sexxx!" "Fab!" like I've never uttered to another since school. It is so on.

I came away from this conversation with the bells of inspiration ringing in my head, and a burning desire to hear "Telephone". For the party I was going to that night, I picked out my most rad accessory of all time-- my giant silver "E" necklace, to plan my outfit around. And now I feel like I never want to go back into the beige carpeted room of dressing "nice".

Well, I'll probably have to for work, but in the meantime, I can litter my outfit posts with giant, brightly-colored shapes and indulge in lots of flash photography at parties...

Yours,

Elissa.

[Outfit details: Hat: Urban Outfitters. Jacket: Macy's. Dress: Mad for Mod. Shoes: JC Penney. "E" Necklace: Thrifted. Sunglasses: Vintage store in Seattle.]

City Prints

2010-05-21T19:50:00.000-04:00

I am just wild about city prints, so when Market Publique sent me notice of this little dress, I immediately fell in love with it. It doesn't get more romantic than Morocco, no? Well, unless you read Burroughs. Or maybe especially if you do.

Yours,

Elissa.

Your love can't pay my bills.

2010-05-18T22:54:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about getting paid what one is worth. While it's hardly the best time to go around demanding a raise, I think that in general, we as ladies tend to err on the side of just being thankful to have a job. I know I, myself have consciously thought to myself, "Don't rock the boat," or "Don't ask for anything, it's tacky."

Trench: thrifted. Eyelet Dress: Forever 21. Leggings: Old Navy. Shoes: JC Penney. Necklace: H&M.

For the past year -- a bit more -- since I graduated from college, I've stuck to my guns and worked my nose to the grindstone trying to land a great career in fashion. I picked up a few odd jobs here and there to pay the bills in between, but nothing I wanted to be "stuck" in-- too grueling, too underpaid, run by demeaning psychos-- but I was willing to take it while I was there because I had my eye on the prize. And while I still haven't found that perfect career, I have found something that-- when compared to the horrifying roster of positions out there in the world-- is pretty damn close.

Here, I make good on my promise to wear more watches. This one I consider to be more flattering to my short and wide arm proportions, because it's clear (I got it from Filene's in Union Square). I have a beautifully long relationship with clear accessories (just not bags... I trash the inside of them to much for that!

I'm working for the government. I have a regular schedule, I can walk to work if I want, I get an hour's lunch, nobody breathes down my neck, everybody likes my culinary contributions to the office potluck. I get paid enough, I get Memorial Day off. I get to wear cute shoes and I have my own desk with a key. I don't lock it, but I keep some English muffins, peanut butter, hair stuff and packets of oatmeal in there. People say hi to me. I put on my crappy sneakers at lunch and go roaming to find a new Jamaican place. I come back and Facebook a little before it's time to clock back in. I leave at 5 and can meet any of my friends for dinner or drinks if I want, or go home and work out, or go home and watch TV with the cat. It is, in the parlance of 2006, bossy.

Today, I was offered a position doing something more in line with fashion, but for half of what I'm making now, and with a variable schedule. And it pained me, but for the first time in my life, I told them that I had a salary requirement, and if it couldn't be met, I couldn't work there. At a different time in my life, I would have said, "Screw it, I'm being more true to me by doing something for work that is more in line with my passion. So, I'll suffer a little."

And while working in the field you feel most passionate about is certainly the ideal, there's something to sticking with a job that is giving you what you need to carry out the rest of your life to plan-- enough money, enough time, enough respect. To that end, and for whatever it's worth (eh... $20? No, $50!) this post is dedicated to the women who are filing a class-action lawsuit against Wal-Mart for consistently paying women employees less than men. I know I'm going to be paying strict attention to how this one turns out...

Yours,

Elissa.

All this weekend's parties... Part II

2010-05-16T21:52:00.001-04:00

Party Number Two definitely turned it up a whole other notch. My plans to go as a unicorn were foiled last minute by my planned-upon dress --which I haven't tried on in six months-- being way too big. On to plan B, which involved a favorite vintage dress of mine that, due to its esoteric awesome, never gets trotted out as often as I'd like.

When I first started on as the manager of a vintage store, the owners let me pick 1 dress to have right off the bat and I immediately chose this #1 Stunna. Oh, and yep, I'm wearing a purple feather crown and geisha/clown makeup. But wait til you see my Sweets...

He decided to go as our cat, complete with cat-ears he made from a pair of bunny ears, a tail made out of a white feather boa, and 6 charming cat nipples (which were tweaked ceaselessly throughout the night).

Besides the bar (I kept it to a drink called the Dark and Stormy-- spiced rum with ginger beer), there was costume karaoke, burlesque, an amazing DJ and general, extreme buffoonery. But since most of those pictures are pretty intensely NSFW, I'll populate the rest of this post with hot outfit action.

I loved this girl's gigantic bow and Elizabethan collar that she made herself.

I didn't realize til posting this that Cherry Blossom Barbie and I had nearly the same face makeup going. These girls were the ultimate in confectionary cuteness.

And because I'm a friendist, here's another shot of D., in his party attire. I should of rolled him for that jacket!!

Here, I play games with my dress and the projector...

And my personal favorite picture of the evening... who can explain to me why flash is sometimes so bad, and at other times, so very, very good??

Well, back to reality, folks... hope you all had a fantastic weekend yourselves!

Yours,

Elissa.

All this weekend's parties... Part I

2010-05-16T21:21:00.001-04:00

This weekend marked the biggest parties of the year for the Ohio Art League, and damn. I could get used to it! Free food, free drinks, great people and best of all--- the opportunity to "see and be seen". Friday night was the first night of the two, and was a mellow introduction to Saturday night's party.

It was also the opportunity to have first dibs on the art for sale, which, while there were a couple of pieces I most desperately wanted, I blew my grandchildren's children's college money on my teeth earlier this week. So... next time. There was so much good stuff in there.

Dress: gift from a friend. Shoes: Steve Madden. And if you can see them, my Earrings are from Target and I'm also wearing my little two-finger zebra ring.

A friend of mine sent this dress my way just the day before... I have to admit that I have gotten to a place where I don't often experiment with shapes as much as I used to-- and I was pleasantly surprised that this one worked so well!

"Classy" and "Charismatic" are the words most often used to describe us.

Here, one of the photobooth pics that my Sweets and I took together, mostly to illustrate my fancy hair piece. I got it off Etsy, and unfortunately, it wasn't packed well, so some of the leaves were broken. Happily, I was able to mess around with it to make it good again-- then my cat ate a piece off of it. Luckily, her eatings enhanced the look of it... no good close-up pictures, though!

One of the artists with her cute yarn-basket things that she makes, bedecked in wires reminscent of her craft... isn't she a cutie?

The notorious photobooth... I credit my Sweets with this photo... love the leg and the creepy "watcher" in the mirror!

And last but not least, an outfit shot of my friend D.; I loved his pink-and-gray ensemble...

While this party was an intimate and classy affair, the next night's was an absurd blow-out of the Dionysian kind... stay tuned to Part II for my turn as a Psychedelic Geisha Clown.

Be warned!

Yours,

Elissa.

What's white, round, and comes from a Pittsburgh jewelry store?

2010-05-13T22:49:00.002-04:00

Clockwise from top left: Truus, Bob and Jan, Too!, AnnuskA AnnA - Theodora, Sugarbarre2, Fred_Baby.

Pearls, baby!

I've been thinking to myself lately that my readers have been especially frisky lately, and by that I mean that traffic is up on the old bloggerino, as are comments-- both number and depth of response! I do so much appreciate your reading the blog and I love reading what you all have to say. So it could not come at a better time, that Louis Anthony Jewelers, a Pittsburgh jewelry store has kindly sponsored a giveaway for all of you! I always love to host a good giveaway for my readers as a special thanks to you!

Up for grabs are these gorgeous, 7mm freshwater pearl studs, valued at roughly $100.

Each pair is unique, and may not look exactly like these, pictured.

Who are these kindly pearl-giver-awayers?? Louis Anthony Jewelers is family-owned, by Veronica and Lou Guarino and is located in the South Hills area of Pittsburgh, PA. Louis Anthony Jewelers offers carefully chosen and undeniably stunning selection of jewelry, timepieces and gifts. They provide the kind of warm, familiar service that goes beyond knowing your name to knowing what's on your personal wish list.

They offer a wide variety of jewelry brands from esteemed to emerging-- my favorites are BIBIGI and Chimento, seriously hot stuff-- makes ya think they ought to change it from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Pittsburgh Gilders... eh? eh?

Anywho, here's how to enter!

1) Pop onto the Louis Anthony Jewelers Site. Click on the Designer's link and choose your favorite line of jewelry!

2) Report back on your favorite(s) with a comment on this post.

3) For two extra entries, follow me on Twitter and give a tweet-out about the contest! Be sure to leave another comment here with a link to your tweet and your Twitter username so I can know it's you!

4) For three extra entries, post about this contest on your own blog! Be sure to leave a link in a separate comment.

5) For one extra entry, follow my blog with Bloglovin'! I love this site, I wouldn't get around to reading half as many blogs as I do without it! Be sure to leave a separate comment so I can count it correctly!

6) Don't forget to leave your email address so I can contact you if you are the big winner!

This contest starts now, and ends on Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. Good luck to you all!

Yours,

Elissa.

The stars aligned...

2010-05-12T19:27:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was pretty much a dazed trot through the land of sedatives as I resigned my teeth to the dentist.

The only moment I remember is when I had to go to the bathroom right before I went off and the hygienist accompanied me. Not wanting to be babysat, I said, "Lemmeh do it on my own," and ran into a wall. When I got to the bathroom, she said, "Do you, ah, need... assistance?" To which I turned around and said, "Yyyou know.... and I know.... we don't want that to happen." I'm assuming I succeeded at my task, however, that was the last thing I remember...

Above, a visual representation of the experience... the sneakers are the best pair I've had in a long time, thrifted of all things. The high-top shape makes them slightly cooler, and the pink color and perforations make them feminine and light. That, and they look good at the end of a dentist's chair.

Tra la la,

Elissa.

Who's cutting arts?

2010-05-10T22:31:00.002-04:00

The spirit is willing, but the body is weak. This explains why, even though biking to work is both free, and by the miracle of modern traffic patterns, actually faster than driving to work, I am unable to get up the requisite 45 minutes early in order to do so. Why 45 minutes early? Why, I require 3/4 hour of mental preparation to conquer my various biking-related fears vis a vis heavy morning traffic. It is this trepidation that encourages me to press the sleep button one, two, three more times. Oops! There isn't time enough to bike! Guess I'll drive again!

Not so today! I sprang out of bed, right sprightly and walked to work today (I could not summon the mettle to ride). Though coffee and breakfast-less, my footly commute helped breathed some life into my morning.

After, I met up with some people from the Ohio Art League, for whom I am now blogging on the side. The biggest party of their year is coming up this Saturday, and they are getting the event space ready. I came by to take inventory of all the art that is going up (for sale by silent auction) to write a little piece about it. The space itself has 4 floors with insane downtown views... and I can walk to it from my house, so I look forward to getting into howl-at-the-moon mode.

"Wonder", by Lisa McLymont

Of all the art, this one sang out to me as my tastes are pretty staunchly multimedia... the Wonderbread factory in town just closed, and a new art space called Wonderland is about to open inside. Even though we miss the fresh bread smells, people are pretty excited about Wonderland, and this painting/collage pretty accurately encapsulates all of the emotions involved in a beloved factory dying, while a glamorous, unproven venture looms.

Speaking of art, here's a close-up of my necklace, which is really what my outfit is about today. I got it at an antique store in Florida last year, and it's one of my favorite things-- I rarely trot it out due to its in-between length, but damnit if I ought to do it more often. It makes me feel like I'm projecting good will, without having to smile or give money to anyone. I'm now on the hunt for accessories that make me appear beatific but not religious, and hard-working but not employed.

Tomorrow I have to go to the dentist to repair 6 years worth of eating lots of cake and candy and shirking the chair. Luckily ( I suppose ) the last time I went they couldn't work on me because I was... well, conscious. I have extreme tooth-meddling aversion and almost threw up on the hygienist, to which the dentist prescribed me some knock out pills and rescheduled me. "Do NOT forget to take these prior to," he said, "Because I can't work like this." he gestured to my expression of abject terror and white-knuckled grip on his coat.

Ughhhh.... wish me luck!!

Yours,

Elissa.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T10:22:00.000-04:00

My mom and myself, circa 1985.

Happy Mothers day, all you muthas!! I'm going to Cincinnati to visit with mine. I credit my mom for my sense of humor and also my white, white complexion. Beaches are not our friends. To kick off the day, I bring to you one of my most favorite songs featuring mothers, sung by one of my mom's favorite Bobs (aside from my dad).

Take care, everybody!

Elissa.

Cosmic, Far-out 12-year-olds.

2010-05-06T23:42:00.001-04:00

I can't remember exactly how I first happened upon Fallie's Scrapbook, but it's fast becoming a favorite read. Her laid back, minimal blogging style allows for her caprice and creativity to shine through, and Tuuli, the 12-year-old from Estonia behind it, has it in spades. I'm addicted to her lollipop-headed fashion illustrations, portraits, and far-out outfit posts.

She's a simple kid with a flair for badassery. Care for a wolf tee of your own? There's a rather rad one in my shop right now!

Here, a look from Hermes' F/W 2010 show... I believe that her sister is some kind of fashion designer, and Tuuli does all of the illustrations for her line (from what I understand). Her ability to render each piece makes every outfit look like candy-- if she came out with a book of paper dolls, I'd definitely buy...

Here, she brings Brian Boy and Julia Frakes to life... gotta love those teal lips...

Cosmically Lacoste...

Look at how she got the texture on the tights so right in her illustration of a Topshop Unique Fall 2010 ensemble...

When I first saw this portrait she did of Tavi in her MiuMiu, I nearly crapped. It's amazing. Must... commission.... portrait.... to hang in dining room and intimidate/disgust guests!

A portrait of the artist as a young girl. You guys just need to check out her blog for the full effect. It'll make you wish for a little sister if you don't have one, and hate your own little sister for not being this cool if you do.

Speaking of coolness, for those of you that asked on my last blog post, the stand-up thing last night well--- actually, much better than I was prepared for... I set a really low bar for myself, mainly just don't throw up-- but once I got up there, my trepidation melted off and I felt really good. People even came up to me afterwards to tell me how much they liked it-- which is freaking crazy! I was prepared to come back on here and talk about how I totally choked, but... I definitely did the opposite. It is weird, but hey man, I'll take it!! What happens from here, I don't know... but I know what I'll be doing next Wednesday.

Yours,

Elissa.

To flatter, or not to flatter...

2010-05-04T22:26:00.000-04:00

Ahmigahd ahmigahd ahmigahd. Tomorrow night is the big night. I'm somewhat used to being on stage-- my parents say that as a baby, I would stand up in my high chair at the restaurant and ~~sing at the top of my lungs~~ serenade diners and staff alike. I've done plays, I've given lectures, I've sunk my teeth into all kinds of karaoke, but this stand-up foray is altogether different.

Top: thrifted. Tank: Urban Outfitters. Jeans: NY&Co. Shoes: Pink Duchess.

I won't be putting my own spin on something people are already familiar with, or working within the safety and constraint of someone else's writing and direction. I'm just making up some stupid stuff and hoping people like it-- hopefully I'm not the only one that thinks that cats with French accents and pulling grilled cheese sandwiches apart is funny. If not, I'm pretty sure I'm just going to quiver and vomit and scamper back to my hole. Ye-yipe!!!

Today's look attempts to make use of this gigantic, cropped silky top I thrifted. It's got great buttons and is actually -- dunh, dunh, dunh -- some kind of 1970's lingerie. I was primarily attracted to it because of the cool fabric, and the fact that it has roomy sleeves, something that I've begun to seek out on account that I've finally acknowledged that my "pythons" will never be garter snakes. And not that one should go around covering things... I don't necessarily believe that you should cover things you don't like looking at, because it is, you know, your god-given body, it's just that now I won't have to look at them because they are now covered. Ya dig??

Also on my arm today... a watch my little brother gave me. He is a watch fiend, and has a pretty sizeable collection. He takes them apart and puts them back together again, it's all very German of him. Well, the boy is indeed going to attend school in the Land of Clocks (and cute wooden things, and streudel) and has unloaded some watches on me to make his transcontinental move a bit lighter. This particular watch is a 1930's Gruen, which used to be manufactured in downtown Cincinnati. The best part is you don't have to wind it, because it automatically does so whenever you move your arm. I didn't even know that technology was around then!

It makes me want to revisit watches altogether; I have some pretty cool ones, actually, and I keep coming across styles that make me want to revisit watch-wearing, even though I primarily stopped on account of their arm-embiggening qualities.

Whaddya think? Is there something you can't stop wearing even though you know it's not flattering?? Should it matter?

Yours,

Elissa.

Satisfies.

2010-05-01T11:13:00.000-04:00

I have this dress.... that I have a love-hate relationship with. It's got a surplice neckline which my husband loves, but makes me feel like I'm lactating. Some days I'm good with the earth-mother mood that the top-heaviness engenders, and at other times I go to Forever 21 and buy a new outfit in the middle of the day. Voici...

Bomber: Marshall's. Top: Forever 21. Skirt: Forever 21. Tights: Gift. Shoes: Miss Bisou.

Today was a great day at work, despite! I recently bought a voice recorder last week and have been taking it with me on my breaks to record snippets of funny stories, jokes and one-liners. Today marks my 38th joke, and I figure that should be enough to harangue a crowd for the requisite 5 minutes, so... I plan to go to an open-mike night in Columbus this up-coming week and try my hand at some stand-up comedy.

Ring: Forever 21.

I have to credit my brother-in-law for instilling me with the courage to do such a thing... in fact, he's kind of started a wave amongst our friends. Speaking of wave, best to duck if I'm wearing this ring when I want to say hello to someone. I have not had great luck with two-finger rings on account of the whole not-just-fitting-one-finger-but-two-and-there's-no-interchangeableness-about-it thing, but me and this little zebra are a match made in accessory heaven. I hope nothing ever happens to him, but as it most likely will now that I've written that, I'll now a) knock on my wooden desk --knock, knock-- and b) enjoy the time that we have together, now.

Giddyap,

Elissa.

T-shirt Menagerie.

2010-04-28T00:21:00.000-04:00

Cardigan: thrifted. Skirt: thrifted. Shoes: MIA. Belt: Urban Outfitters. Tank: Insight via Cultist.

Even though I'm elated to have an 8-5, and to have the knowledge of where I'll be from day to day and be able to plan things at night, it really is astounding how much time 9 hours is to one's wakeful life. As someone who has typically done things on a variable schedule, it's definitely something to get used to, in terms of re-organizing one's schedule.

I've been waiting weeks to build up the chutzpah to iron this skirt and wear it, and happily I did and I am in lurve. The longer length feels almost subversive, and khaki is something I trot out every once in a never. No many detail photos today, as it was raining and dark and my camera dislikes both of those situations, but my needlepoint belt is a point of interest, and the very first thing I ever bought from Urban Outfitters way back in the Nineties, ya'll!

As for the top, I have a small, but growing collection of these animals-in-costume tanks from Insight. The one I have on, of course, features a little kitty in a beret with a paint brush. It was a toss-up between that, and the raccoon with the whisk in the chef hat; hopefully I can grab that one soon!

Here's the rest of them... let's all drool along, shall we? If pastel animals on tank tops fail to arouse your interest, I redirect you here...

Insight Floral Flutter Tank

Insight Fly Mel, Fly! Tank in Mint Delight

This one I love because it reminds me of the cake-toppers at our wedding...

Insight Fly Mel, Fly! Tank in Transparent Blue

Insight Cooking Class Tank in Lilac

What about you guys? What items of clothing do you collect? Are they part of a series, or are you on a "see scarves, buy them" regimen?

Yours,

Elissa.

Playing Catch-up.

2010-04-26T21:22:00.000-04:00

It's a been a busy last couple of days! Saturday, we threw a surprise party for our friend and I wore the following...

Sweater: Urban Outfitters. Leggings: Old Navy. Shoes: Grandview Weekend Outlet. Tank: Target. Necklace: Homako.

Dressing to look Sexy Pahhty is not really my strong-suit; coupled with the fact that I really like to get down, it's a downright SAT-problem of an outfit planning. Though I doubt anyone would care to emulate this particular look, I will tell you that FLATS and a sports bra are a girl's best friends if she wants to do this all night...

Oh, you heard me all right. And lest I be judged to be Liz Lemon's sartorial cousin, feast your eyes on my feet. Those sandals have lion's heads on them.

Sorry. Lions. Sorry. Lions.

I truly apologize for making you look at my feet. It's one of those things you just can't unsee... but it was worth it, right?? I mean, c'mon... lions!!! My friend Wanda Petunia took the following amazing photo of that evening with her Hipstamatic for iPhone...

...it's a little slug crawling on my arm. Seriously, this makes me wish all my photos looked like this. I'm still holding out for Verizon to offer the iPhone, but the Hipstamatic is about to send me tumbling over the edge! Imagine how much more palatable pictures of feet would be!!

Alrighty, time for me to decide whether to go get some Chinese food or workout... hmm...

Yours,

Elissa.

Does Earth Day even happen any more??

2010-04-23T00:30:00.001-04:00

Just squeezing under the wire (I think) to present you my Earth-day themed post. I don't know about you, but Earth Day is getting less and less fanfare each year, it seems. Today, I almost didn't realize it was here... we had a big party at work for Take Your Kid To Work Day (also today), for which I made Watergate salad (omnomnom), which is green, so I very possibly inadvertently celebrated Earth Day.

Tralala!!!

In line with my inadvertent celebrating of Earth Day, I wore a rather boho top, if I do say so myself. In a previous post, I mentioned that I hate all things hippie, but upon saying so, I issued a challenge to myself to find and incorporate something of that ilk into my regular rotation.

Jeans: New York & Company. I highly recommend them, especially if you are on the curvier side. Shoes: thrifted. Top: Francesca's. Hat: thrifted.

My main concern with flowy tops is I think they make me look dumpy both by virtue of shapelessness and drab, dinge-making colors. This one is slightly more fitted (hurrah!) and is a pale, metallic gold. I'll be sad --if and when-- metallic gold leaves the fashion scene... we're so tight.

Shoes: Thrifted Eddie Bauer.

What you're seeing on the ground there is one of many beer cans that get thrown into the yard. If only the neighborhood drunks knew, every time you litter, a little baby bunny gets whacked. It ain't right.

Earrings: Urban Outfitters. Ring: Macy's.

Also of mild, hippie-ishness is the fact that I'm not wearing any make-up in these photos... and these I took right as I was saying to myself-- do I have the energy to even take these clothes off before I crash out on the couch??

Is eating dandelion fluff bad for you???

Well, I never did get that nap but I did enjoy a brisk walk, some Pilates, and an episode of America's Biggest Loser. It's like a chick flick to me; I cry every episode! I seriously hope Sunshine wins, but don't tell me because I'm actually a couple of weeks behind. It takes a lot of emotional steeling of myself to bear the rollercoaster of Biggest Loser, that, and I can only watch it if I'm alone. I know.

What do you guys do for Earth Day, if anything? Was there a big deal made of it in your town? What's your TV guilty pleasure??

Yours,

Elissa.

"Eli-" peaked in the 1880s.

2010-04-21T00:03:00.001-04:00

I'm a g-man. A suit. That's right, a state-employed clerk. My new assignment leads me to a researching/red-stamping/archiving position for the Department of Health; specializing in birth records.

Sweater: Thrifted. Dress: thrifted. Belt: thrifted. Bag: Grandview Weekend Outlet. Tights: Target. Shoes: Nine West.

Despite it's seemingly dry nature, I actually have a lot of fun with this; going through birth records and thinking about people's names; noting that before they stopped recording people's occupations on birth certificates in the mid-1960's in Ohio, that most Ohioans were machinists or insurance salesmen. Another thing I really like is the ability to recognize name trends... that names that begin with "Car-" were most popular in the 1950's, names that start with "Mad-" were most popular in the 1990's. If you haven't checked out Baby Name Wizard's blog yet, they have an awesome visualization tool to show you how names rank in popularity nationwide throughout the years, starting in the 1870's or so, to present.

Pocketed, for her pleasure.

I'm still acclimating myself to dressing for this office. Today I was subjected to a series of non-smiling, head-to-toe looks from only women; which lead me to my first conclusion-- run and hide in the first sweater set and ass-obscuring khakis that you can find. But more recently, I settle on my second conclusion, which is that the outfit pushes boundaries, but the overall impression is good.

The tote bag is a special new get for me; I traipsed off to the tiny, backwoods hometown of a friend a couple of weeks ago, and they have an outlet there that only sells new Target merchandise that is super off-season, for like, $1. This golden tribute to Timex set me back 97 cents. I also came away with some sandals from the Miss Trish for Capri thing they did last year-- the golden ones with the lions on them, for $2, and a long, olive green, racer-back maxi dress-- they'll mosey on here as soon as June rolls around, I'm sure!

Til next time,

Elissa.

Wakie wakie!

2010-04-18T10:36:00.000-04:00

While you're shaking off last night and enjoying a lazy Sunday morning, I thought you might enjoy this video...

Thanks to an extra special reader for sending this to me!

Yours,

Elissa

Filmspiration

2010-04-16T19:43:00.001-04:00

Last month, I took a tasty payday for writing a few papers for a student. Moral snobs, look away. One of the papers required me to read Nathanael West's Day of the Locust and watch the film as well. If you haven't read the book, I don't recommend watching the film (even though it is a note-perfect adaptation) unless of course, you want to be dazzled by Faye Greener's fabulous 1930's Hollywood wardrobe.

High-waisted skirt, sash, a fuzzy angora sweater and beret, and a donut perfectly suit Faye's character, which is an affected, not-too-bright girl dead-set on stardom.

White is essentially Faye's hallmark color in film, and silk, her trademark fabric. I love the giant butterflies on this dress; and especially the back-view:

I'm in love with the hat, wide-leg pants (um... not captured here) and cropped blouse with the tiny little belt at the waist.

Yet another cropped top and a sarong-style skirt, I think this one also has a butterfly print...

The above ensemble haunts my dreams. Oh, to be wearing this when I traipse off to the beach this July!!

Seriously. I'm going to find out who did the wardrobe for this film and watch everything else she worked on. Who wouldn't kill for this sweater, with a longish pencil skirt and saddle shoes?

If you'd like to see more, I uploaded a whole bunch onto my Flickr as well.

And now-- off to my weekend! Hope you have a glorious one!

Yours,

Elissa.

Store Updates; A New Adventure.

2010-04-15T00:28:00.000-04:00

I'm the type that thrives on busyness. It seems the more I have scheduled, the more I get done. I listed a few new things in the store. As you'll see, my obsession with adorable, walkable shoes and tiny purses has manifested itself in my latest uploads...

Joanna Knotted Sandals (size 9!)

Rhiannon Wicker Cross-body Bag

Lisa Lace-Ups (size 8)

Dynasty Cross-Body Bag

Skipper Knotted Sandals (size 7.5)

After, I met up with some folks regarding a new venture of mine. The arts organization that I belong to threw up their hands in blogging despair, so I volunteered to take it on. Here, we make notes about what I should blog about regarding their annual huuuuge party. Details to come.

One of the gals in attendance noted that I had "changed my shoes", as somehow I have became known as the girl with bright gold shoes. "Do you change your outfits often in one day?" She asked. "Sometimes, yes..." Like my childhood heroine, Nancy Drew, I sometimes change outfits during the day, if only to put myself in a new mindset for the next "chapter" in my schedule. Maybe as my days get busier, I'll put myself through ever-more costume changes. Here's what I wore to the meeting...

Oxford: WalMart. Wrap Skirt: Mayan Connection. Shoes: Steve Madden. Bag: thrifted.

My camera has started to take quite pukey pictures lately; I don't have much in the way of explanation of these last couple of pictures. I'm annoyed because I enjoyed wearing this number. Simple, and just business-y enough with enough color and pattern to pass for art hag.

My friend E.L. is an avid wearer of blue nail-polish. I first started admiring it last summer, and no lie, since then, I have test driven about 10 different shades, all unflattering in their own special ways, before finding this one. I am thrilled with its aquamarine hue and dull sheen. I only rue that it comes in a half-sized bottle that I found in what must have been a bin of rejects at the Sally Beauty Supply in the less-traveled parts of town. For reference, it's called Bonita "Blue Savannah". Must... find... more...

The bag is a favorite new thing for me as well, it's a vintage Dooney & Bourke bag and, while I don't really get wild over labels, it is the real deal-- no glued on duck for me! Although from this photo, it could be a sperm whale for all we know.

Til the next chapter,

Yours,

Elissa.

My take on...

2010-04-12T16:44:00.000-04:00

I found this chevron-striped skirt, and visions of the 1970's take on the 1930's danced through my head. I wasn't sure what to pair with it, but as soon as I saw Eyeliah's recent post featuring her fine self in a dreamily stripe-alicious concoction, I caught the fever.

Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, and I do admire this blogger for her commitment to commenting on so many of our blogs; her social networking prowess and personal touch are definitely something I wish I had more of! So here goes, my take on Eyeliah.

Shoes: Nine West. Skirt: Thrifted. Belt: Thrifted. Blouse: The Gap. Bag: My shop! Hat: thrifted.

My camera truly hates stripes it seems, so here's a close-up so you can get a better gander at the stripes involved in this venture.

I'm also extremely flippin' fond of this hat; although hat-wearing is alien to me in seasons not ending in -inter.

Laurel Earrings: Target.

Although, the shade-providing aspects of a huge hat are attractive to me now that I take my fair skin seriously. Also, it makes me feel like Iris in Taxi Driver, but um-- older and less exploited.

My head is inside this hat. Deep inside.

The point of this picture is not only to convince you to let me sit on your Viper in my leather shorts, but also to display the charms of this lovely bag, which is currently in my store, but now that it goes so awesomely with the rest of the ensemble makes me kind of regret it!

Til next time...

Elissa.

Tip of the Iceberg

2010-04-09T14:30:00.000-04:00

I just spent the day re-organizing my shoe ~~avalanche~~ collection. Consider this post my audition for "Extreme Hoarders: Shoe Edition". Sigh!

Although, perhaps I perjure myself. What's the difference between a collector and a hoarder? I think that collectors show off their possessions with pride. Not sure if what I'm feeling right now is necessarily pride, but then again you won't find any coupons, pizza boxes or fossilized possums in here. Perhaps I'm feeling tentative relief.

Hmm... to buy: Boot forms.

Just a short post for today-- I find myself suddenly in the position of having 3 jobs, all received on the same day. Despite the overwhelmingness of it, I am quite thankful to have "too many jobs" as my most pressing problem. Seriously. Universe, I like ya, but you're crazy.

Til later,

Elissa.

En elaborate setup in which I debate how to spend parts of my tax refund.

2010-04-07T01:23:00.000-04:00

A couple of days ago, I went to see a screening of the 1977 film, Hausu. It was so crazy good, I can't get it out of my head. If you like Schiaparelli, Dali, Dada-ism, cat clocks, blood-thirsty pianos or Yellow Submarine, you'll most definitely find something to like in this surrealist horror. It's about 7 girls who visit one girl's aunt out in the country side, only to find that they've stepped into some seriously haunted territory. Here's a peek-- it'll give you some idea, but really, if it stops by your city's screens, you must check it out.

If seeing something, merely for the opportunity to see something which defies description isn't enough for you, then know that it is also a laugh-riot brimming with creative-because-we're-broke special effects. Lastly, the costumes provide plenty of inspiration, making me wish I were brusque enough to snap pictures in a movie theater, because there really are no suitable-for-the-sake-of-discussing-fashion clips online.

Submitted, for your perusal are a grouping of Oxford shoes (my current drool), 1 picked for each girl, and every one under $60 (resourceful-because-I'm-broke).

When You Wish Upon a Shoe from Modcloth, $59.99

We begin with Mac, who, despite looking to be an American size 6-8, is said to be the "fat one". She's constantly eating, tortured by her appetite. Necessarily, she dies first, pulling a watermelon out of a well. I've picked the above pictured oxfords for her, because the stud detailing is rude and childlike looking, as though someone merely pushed thumbtacks into their shoes, perfectly befitting Mac's impulsive and haphazard nature. But they are, however, still cute and trendy; Mac was last seen wearing a dolphin-shorted romper.

Aldo Lahaie $49.98

Prof makes an unassuming entrance in some baggy, pleated Bermuda shorts, of the type that every foreign exchange student in the 80's was known to wear with medical-looking knee-high socks with peregrine brand-names printed at the tops. Prof, however won me over with her supersized, perfectly round glasses frames. I bequeath unto her these Lahaies, in hopes of seeing her wear them in a reprised knee-highs with shorts combo, possibly with suspenders and a sequinned tube top. Everyone gets a tube top in this fantasy, even the dorks. I don't discriminate.

Steve Madden Luxe Jazz, $59.98

Gorgeous, of course, is the main character, the Lauren Conrad of the bunch if you will. She sports a gauzy white tunic with matching white flares for most of the film, pulling out her compact from time to time to powder her nose while her girlfriends playfully rue her. If there were any oxford that I'd like to see with a flowing white, gauzy ensemble, it would be this suede/sparkly pair. Urge to buy, rising.

Kimchi Blue Teardrop Oxford, $48

Fantasy is a daydreamer, a catastrophizer, an airhead. But, as Prof mentions early in the movie, Fantasy's capriciousness is also her greatest strength. What better shoe than one that reminds one as little as possible that one's feet are indeed, on terra firma? And while these shoes may not be useful for say, working construction, they are most certainly an asset to a wardrobe full of floaty skirts, dirndl vests and lockets.

Jal Jacko Glittered Oxfords, $20.80

These nearly came home with me on a recent trip to Forever 21, but as I stood in line, I noticed my hands becoming increasingly covered in glitter. This may not be a problem for some, but for me, if my hands are covered in glitter, there better also be a glow-in-the-dark retainer in my mouth. Unlike myself, Melody can't seem to avoid things she loves, even if they may end up killing her. Did I mention the blood-thirsty piano? As the musical one of the bunch, she entertains (herself) to death, much like the Gloved One. And while Melody is a conservative and feminine dresser, every girl needs something fab to wear to their final recital.

8020 Marlee Tea Party, $55

Sweet is the fundamental girl-stereotype of the bunch. She wears lots of florals, and her trademark characteristic is her --yes, sweetness-- but also her love of doing housework. I can hear your grumbles from here. But she does get to wear a lovely, ruffled, pinafored apron the entire time, and finally meets her fate in a nasty confrontation with a dolly. Not only is the pattern on this puppy feminine and sugary sweet, the shape and the leather laces are simple and unchallenging, like young Sweet herself. It is interesting to note that the back heel of this shoe has a logo that looks like an open, toothy mouth, sort of like the logo to the movie has.

Aldo Rask, $39.98

What's this you say? Not an oxford? Well this shoe I've saved for my favorite character, Kung Fu, and she, like this shoe, is another breed. She opens unyielding jars, she runs up walls, and she kicks evil cats in their faces. That, and she spends the last half of the movie in a pair of blue poka-dot, side-tie bikini bottoms and a boy tank (she lost her skirt in a fight with a demonic axe) and doesn't miss a beat. For her, she gets the only flat, closed-toe footwear appropriate for such unyielding badassery. I only pray that she pair them with some cropped, skinny trousers and a tie-front, sleeveless gingham blouse. Or possibly a gigantic blazer and a sequinned tube top-- like I told ya. Not discriminating.

Til next time,

Yours,

Elissa.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T22:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter, everyone! I'm debuting my shorter locks as promised, in a flapper-ish ensemble-- how apropos! One of the best pieces of advice I've ever read is, if you're planning on switching up your hairstyle, or you really want the stylist to "get" what you're going for, the best course of action is to come to the appointment dressed in the mode of the style you're going for.

Sweater: thrifted. Polka-dot Tights: Target. Shoes: MIA. Beyond wrinkled Dress/Slip: F21. Bow: Me-made.

I hate doing this extreme and corny a close-up of myself but I really am loving my little bow necklace that I made out of the discarded hem of a dress that I tore into strips and braided.

What's next? I point into the horizon, or check the time with an exaggerated sweep of my watch-wearing arm?

And here, a peep at these cloisonne key earrings that I actually wear quite a lot, but now they will actually get a chance of being seen now that my hair's a little shorter.

Speaking of peeps, Easter really snuck up on me this year. It may be the first time that I haven't done anything with my family, or my Sweets'. I slept with the window open last night, too, and I think I made myself sick that way so even if there were jelly beans or Peeps to be had, they wouldn't likely stay down, anyway. I'm reminded of the following song by one of my favorite but oft-overlooked Nineties bands--

I'll have to rectify this missing-of-Easter business soon...

Yours,

Elissa.

Fffriiiiidayyyyy.

2010-04-02T17:23:00.047-04:00

Blazer: Banana Republic. Skirt: NY&Co. Shoes: JC Penney. Shirt: Vintage. Shades: Vintage. Attitude: Due to hair cut, and shades.

I certainly am enjoying my Friday... I met with the owner of a local stylist and wardrobe consultant in my efforts to explore what lies out there for me in the realm of gainful fashion-y employment without moving from my 'burg. It was a fun and energizing chat-- she even invited me along to help her shop for a client in a couple of weeks! A very cool invitation that I most definitely took her up on.

Later, I had an interview with a guy who said he loved my accessories.... thoughtful accessorizing never hurts one's chances, in fact I think it helped mine so I'm very optimistic...

Stella's tail... Shoes: JC Penney. Shades: Flower Child. Earrings: Made by a Friend.

...in fact these accessories are a few of my faves. The sunglasses I refer to as my "Warhol Shades". Each lens is recessed so they're like wearing a couple of petrie dishes. Moody, black petrie dishes. I got them from a local vintage boutique with the 1960's-era tags still on them. The shoes I got on clearance at JC Penney for $6, if you'd believe it. Seriously. Penney's gets cooler every season and their sales are just embarrassing. And finally, the earrings were made for me by my dear friend Gina the Jazz Singer, my former NYC roommate, for my wedding. The blue is so intense, it's incredible.

Afterwards, we stopped by The Premiere Deli in the neighborhood and feasted on free samples of esoteric breads and cheeses, meatly concoctions and pickles. Oh lord, the pickles...

After which, my travels swung me over near the gigantic, historic cemetery I live near. They've got a pretty amazing tour that I've been on once before, and as we left that day, our guide implored us to take photos there because there "aren't enough" and they keep recycling the same old ones to use for their booster calendar. Booster calendar. Yes, I know. Well, I for one am dying to get in it (ha... ha... ughhh) but as someone who likes to combine as many tasks into one swoop as possible, I've often wondered if it were possible to make an outfit photo, a booster calendar-worthy photo. And then I wonder if I'll be haunted for being so flip and vain. Well if they won't take the photo above, then I'll submit the one below, as well:

But something tells me this one isn't going into the calendar, either...

Yours,

Elissa.

Pole-jumping.

2010-03-31T22:35:00.002-04:00

I believe this will probably be the longest you'll ever see my hair.

Jacket: thrifted. Scarf: thrifted. Mr. Sparkle Simpsons shirt: thrifted. Jeans: NY&Co. Shoes: Pink Duchess.

A friend of mine is a newly-certified life coach and I am lucky enough to be one of his first ~~guinea pigs~~ clients. I told him the story of how my Sweets and I were waiting around at the airport when we spied a couple of poles about crotch-high. "Bet you could jump over that," he challenged.

Ring: 3 Monkeys, Portland. I'm not really a flower-loving type, but could not resist this giant acrylic bloom with its rhinestone center.

I usually take challenges quite gamely, so I proceeded to try and jump over the pole by vaulting off the top of it with my hands and swinging my legs around it. At every attempt, though, I caught myself in mid-air with my feet glued to the sides of the pole, looking very frog-legged. "C'mon, you can jump over it, just do it," he encouraged, so I kept trying to do it, and each time catching myself before I actually cleared it. I had visions of splitting my chin on the concrete or giving myself a new asshole that even Goatse would envy.

Boys love this shirt. One swooped down on me to let me know that the Japanese on it is actually slightly incorrect. I told him his approach was incorrect.

Finally, on my last try, I swung my leg around and smashed it into the pole, giving myself a soft-ball sized bruise. I marched off to the benches and sat down in a huff, knowing that I would look at that bruise for the next couple of weeks and regard it as proof that I suck at life. Yes, I know, these are the things that go through my mind at 2 a.m., fresh off a flight, on a head full of Tylenol P.M.

But Still.

I relayed this story to this certain life coach, and we decided that I should forever renounce trying to meet goals that aren't important to me. I didn't really care about clearing the pole, I just wanted to live up to my Sweets' challenge. And so, as my first act, I think I'm going to cut my hair. I've only been growing it out because the media (and my mother) insist that you really aren't going full-bore female without having super-long hair.

But the fact of the matter is, long hair makes me feel like I'm hiding. It feels heavy, humid, boring and spaniel-ish. It hangs and does nothing (or everything) if one doesn't employ a variety of creams, balms and devices. And anyone that has ever cut my hair knows how I hate devices. Messing with your hair's natural texture makes baby Jesus sad.

So, like I said, this may be the last time you see me with hair this long.

This may also be the first and last time you see my new keychain aka "The Bling Duck" as advertised in the gas station-- but only because I don't make a habit of photographing my keys.

But don't you just love him??

Yours,

Elissa.

To Phoenix and Back...

2010-03-29T16:48:00.001-04:00

I'm back! This past weekend was one of the most fun conventions I've ever attended.

Sweater: Victoria's Secret. Jeans: NY&Co. Shoes: Simple. Tank: Urban Outfitters. Bag, Shades, Neckace: Thrifted.

Our hotel was in a casino (I limited myself to $30 and lost it all in about 15 minutes on video poker.... dummbbbb...) We were surrounded with great people. I took them to the pool after "work" with me each evening. Amazing food was served, each new meal signalled by an employee playing a xylophone in a church-clock style chime.

Bangle: Forever21. Rings: Target.

On the last evening, they bussed us out to a mock ghost-town for a steak dinner under the stars featuring the best mashed potatoes I've every had (really-- cheese, poblano peppers-- mmm) and unlimited tequila sunrises.

Dress: Forever 21. Tights: Target. Shoes: Steve Madden. Blazer: Kaspar. Belt: thrifted.

The hotel featured this horse statue in the lobby. I was impressed to learn that the neck is made of the "skeleton" and roots of a whole cactus. Apparently the green, squishy, water-filled parts of the cactus are merely a skin over the woody parts... who knew?

And now that we're back, I cannot extricate myself from the poor cat's attention-starved, furry little grasp...

Yours,

Elissa.

It's baaaaack! And better than ever!

2010-03-25T10:20:00.002-04:00

By the time you read this, I'll be on a plane for Phoenix. I'm attending a convention and industry awards show... a workish thing that promises to be fun, fun, fun-- after all, we are being put up in a hotel/casino!! I've been fantasizing about cowboy boots and how the Southwestern locale virtually requires me to turn up in some hot boots. I have the pair below, which would pretty much be my ideal desert-walking boot. Pity they don't actually fit me!

Tejano Boot

BUT, they may actually fit you! That's why, after a longish hiatus, my Etsy shop is now back up and running! Those of you who follow me on Twitter may have noticed me Tweeting ever so softly about new things I've been listing. Here are just a couple of things you'll find at the Spandexpony Vintage Menagerie!

Gloria Babydoll Frock

Dear John T-Shirt

Elvis Oxford Lace-Ups

If you decide that one of these lovelies must join the rest of your closet friends, just mention my blog in the Message To Seller for a 20% Discount! Things are still in the pupa stage but getting better day by day. Expect many more great things to come!

Yours,

Elissa.

Bi-Couturious

2010-03-24T21:58:00.000-04:00

You may recall that last summer I spent many a lazy hour playing with Looklet. Now, Couturious is giving Looklet a run for their money, benefitting from its association with Weardrobe and Facebook. I've already taken a shine to it, as you can see...

Now I know this one isn't as eclectic as I might hope for, but the model's Angelina-like looks beg for simple sophistication and black, black, black. Nude accessories are perennial favorites of mine for keeping otherwise dark outfits from feeling funeral.

I dub this one Zooey Deschanel x Bethenny Frankel. I'm kinda lovin' this gold-digging hipster look. Cheetah shoes will always win with me, and the top-over-a-top thing is one of those glorious devices that are the sole provenance of the small-breasted woman. Oh, to layer my own tops with such aplomb!

This one is my absolute favorite. Ever since I saw The Day of the Locust, I've had wide-legs and bandeau tops on the brain (movie-inspired post to come). I imagine this look to be right at home in Nantucket, yachting, champagning and what have you. I put her in the subway, though, because this look reminds me of my "coming home from Coney Island" looks I would sport in my NYC days. Must... rededicate...self...to...abs!!

Crunch! Crunch!,

Elissa.

Extra, extra!

2010-03-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

The kind folks at T-post contacted me recently and asked if I'd like to check out their wares, to which I answered, "Like, DUH!!"

Now, you may say to yourself-- who cares? There are a bunch of t-shirts out there, each better designed than the last. But T-post has its own cool little thing going-- it's actually "wearable news". Each t-shirt constitutes an issue, and features a news story printed on the inside back. The graphic on the front of the t-shirt is the artist's rendition of the story. When you subscribe, you get a new t-shirt -- with news story -- every month.

Here I am, contemplating the news while wearing said t-shirt.

Sweater: Anthropologie. Leggings: Old Navy. Shoes: Vintage, thrifted. Tee-Shirt: T-post.

I am pleased to report that the shirt fits the girls fine, and unlike many other women's cut tees, has enough room in the armholes. Hollah!! And last but not least, it's nice to receive something in the mail postmarked from Sweden. Ya know??

Til next time,

Elissa.

A short tale about blue hats.

2010-03-23T15:47:00.000-04:00

As I was planning out our wedding last year, one of my most burning issues involved what to put on my head. My fiance had said that in no uncertain terms, face-covering veils were both "gross" and "scary". I had never been to interested in them, myself, seeing as they held no special or religious meaning for me. And also, hello, I spent like x number of dollars getting my makeup done, people will see it! Although I ultimately went for a tulle headband type of thing, my less demure side ached for a fabulous blue something on top.

Liaison

For the Ceremony: It really kills me how beautiful this thing is. So much so, that I'd happily have it instead of hair. It's like a curtain for the proscenium that is your face. The only reason it hasn't sold in the 5 months or so it's been on my favorites list is most likely because it's $900.

Hats By Cressida

For the Reception: Some people would tell you that if you truly want to be the most awesomely appointed bride on Earth that you should probably change into a different outfit for your reception. Others might agree that they'd like to burn the image of themselves in a wedding gown into their guests brains so that its memory can live on forever. In such a case, perhaps just a quick hat change would be in order. This hat, for example, let's guests know that while, yes, you're still in a gown-- it's time to get down.

MellaVintage

Getting Away: I always pictured being sent off onto a honeymoon in a skirt-suit waving good-bye to everyone on the pier as a bottle of champagne was smashed against the side of the ship. I believe I had this hat on. In reality, I think we clambered to the airport in sweats with some vestigial toothpaste at the corner of my mouth, my eyes locked on the Starbucks on the other side of security.

Speaking of which, I could stand to wake up right now-- the dreariness lately makes the day feel like a better-lit extension of night.

Groan,

Yours,

Elissa.

Personality crisis...

2010-03-22T13:43:00.002-04:00

Bare-legged weather is upon us...

Frustration heartache's what I got. I can't take a good photo lately... blog inspirations run the gamut from "Hmph" to "Seriously girl, no", mostly because I crave to craft a post around outward inspirations and not my inner turmoil. I try to keep that definitively OUT, for many reasons but not least of which and maybe misguidedly so, my blog address is listed on my resume.

For that reason, vagueness/tasteful restraint ensues here. I'm a voraciously career-minded person with a very singular goal that I'm not eager to give up because when I think about it, I envision myself at 37, wielding a rolling pin and spitting fire at a horde of brats and remembering only vaguely my love of writing about glittery nail polish.

Dusty sang it best...

Yours,

Elissa.

Shoes have I loved

2010-03-18T01:49:00.000-04:00

My paper-writing lark is proving to be both intense, and profitable-- so I apologize for the brief interruption in juicy blog-post morsels. Today I spent the entire day reading The Haunting of Hill House, and then watching the corresponding film; I need tonight to let it form into a nebula of a clue on how to write a paper on themes of "perversions of motherhood". Ick. Yes.

I spent a time today, chasing down shoes of an altogether spectacular nature, to cleanse my palette of perverts and ghosts. Here, a selection of shoes, simultaneously icky and yet mystifyingly desirable. Now if only the perverted ghost of my finances would return...

Nike Gladiateur

If ever there were a shoe for a modern-day Athena, these might be it. At first, I was shocked by their revolting, Teva-like tendencies, but later resolved to love them and treat them as a breezy high-top. Now I'm determined that the right pair of slouchy, cropped slacks; a loose-fitting, graphic-printed racer-back tank, a short sequinned vest and a jaunty chapeau are just the things to take these from crunchy to crunk.

Pour La Victoire Sonya

I'll admit it. I kinda hate the huge, platform heels that proliferate the hooves of every large-glasses wearing celebrity. They seem like the giant, buoyant false breasts of the shoe world. These, however, are ahhht dahling, of the highest kind. These I prescribe a white, pin-up style bikini and a dressing kimono of the old Hollywood kind.

Camilla Skovgaard S10002.1

If one could meld the shoe lusts of Rumi and Sal, out would pop these delectables. Architectural, towering, aggressive, sexy, these are the kind of shoes whose sole purpose is for stamping out your cigarette butt before you calmly and confidently walk away from a building that is about to explode. Or they could definitely be used to add increasing pressure to the accelerator of an Aston Martin as you launch it from one end of a rising drawbridge to the other... to get to the library before they close because they're the only branch in town with a copy of The Haunting of Hill House on the shelves...

Back to work,

Yours,

Elissa.

Rain... blurgh...

2010-03-13T16:05:00.001-05:00

What better to do on a rainy day then pull your sewing machine out of storage and get to work?? I've had my sewing machine packed away for well over a year, now, and after a very interesting and inspiring conversation with a girl I met recently about how she wants to start a wedding gown business-- she wants to create gowns especially for creatively hiding tattoos-- I got the old bastard out and hemmed up a formerly dowdy frock into something incredibly cute... I'm thinking over a swimsuit, on the beach... to be seen shortly.

Speaking of things one never uses, I have a whole bunch of really lovely silk scarves that I mostly just like to look at and feel but never wear. My little bomber ensemble made me turn a new leaf today, and I felt like a little bow around the neck was just the fitting accessoire; kind of half Earhart, half Collins. Collins is probably where it's at because the drag queens who live across the street felt moved to yell at me as I walked by, "Work that scarf, honey!!" I could ask for nothing more.

Working my scarf,

Elissa.

Origami.

2010-03-12T16:22:00.000-05:00

Kuru Maru Felt Ball Necklace, $35

Just popping in for a quick post to say that I just bought this from Homako's Etsy shop and I'm thrilled to pieces. I'm feeling really inspired by origami-like pieces, from jewelry to shoes and this little lady makes things that fit the bill quite nicely.

Origami Necklace, $38

Origami Kurukuru Necklace, $35

Bodou Necklace, $43

Bubble Polka Dots Necklace, $40

Oh, the little balls might be my favorite!

I'm having a really lovely, eventful and accomplishment-ridden day, I'm hoping the same for you!

Yours,

Elissa.

Indulge me, dear.

2010-03-10T00:59:00.000-05:00

Today was an awesome day. We got to 60 degrees here, and everyone was out saying "hello" to each-other again. I celebrated by taking a couple of new things out for a spin...

Jacket: American Rag. Tshirt: F21. Jeans: NY&Co. Shoes: JCPenney. Earrings: Aldo.

One of my new things includes a pyramid-studded t-shirt found in the "Gaga" section of Forever 21. I don't normally go for things that are punky-- I spent so much time in them as a teenager that it's like going back to wearing diapers. But this t-shirt is heathered and the studs are bronze, so it has a femininity and quietness to it that can't be found in black leather and silver hardware.

On the opposite end of the quitness spectrum, I dove back into the sparkly nail-polish pond. I think my first bottles of nail polish were opaque white and silver glitter, and try as I might to kick this childish habit, I think I'll always be a sucker for glitter. I applied it as I got my hair did today--

The girl that did it said that she thought my earrings looked like little golden records-- I dig the comparison. She also told me that she was pregnant, and I said, "Congratulations! Are you excited?" and she said, "Not really, it isn't mine," she paused, "I'm a surrogate." I really wanted to learn more about it, but I didn't want to pry, either. What a thing to do! I can't say that I can wrap my mind around it but I'm glad the option is out there for people. Who knows, maybe I'll give her a call sometime for services other than a cut and color...

Yours,

Elissa.

Arnie and Sly.

2010-03-08T13:22:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I traipsed off to the mall endeavoring to spend up my Anthropologie gift card. However, I didn't buy anything because they didn't have these spectacdicluous shoes in the store.

Everything thrifted except jeans: NY&Co. and Tank underneath: Urban Outfitters. See my keeton?

Resignedly, I poked through some other stores. Now, as you may or may not know, I live in Columbus, Ohio. This weekend was the weekend we all wait on with baited breath; The Arnold Classic. For a week, our bars, hotels and streets are flooded with guys and gals who could crush our heads--but won't-- wearing TapouT t-shirts and Diesel jeans, inspiring reactions from subtle amusement to outright awe. Arnold Schwartzenegger presides over this motley crew and he comes to our burg to judge the competitions.

Well, as I was considering big earrings vs. gargantuan earrings at Aldo, the girl behind the register says to the girl on the floor-- "Ohmigod, what? What? I have to see this!" The girl on the floor says, "He's out in the hall! He's coming!" I say, "What-- who?" The girl behind the register says to the long line of customers, "I'm sorry. I have to do this." She runs out of the store and I soon see why-- here comes Arnold Schwartzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, ringed by cops, enjoying ice cream cones. It might be worth it to note here that both men eat ice cream using their lower lips as scoops. The girl who ran out screams, "Arnold! Arnold I love you!!!" He looks over, smiles, waves and she dissolves into consonants and syllables, nothing more. "Guh-guh-bu-spluh." A huge wave of people followed them obediently, as if they expected them to turn those ice creams into wine. I couldn't help but feel some glee, myself, but I forgot my phone, and you know if you don't Tweet it, it doesn't count. Ah well.

One thing I am making count is these tasty Eddie Bauer oxfords I thrifted the other day. The only other things in the mall that people were a bigger fan of were Arnie and Sly. These shoes are one of those magical things, besides pizza and money that appeals to all ages, races and creeds. I was stopped by a Forever 21-shopping cougar, a black teenaged boy, the Pakistani guy who runs the news-stand, and a girl that looked like the heir to the Urban Outfitters fortune to ask me about them. So I'll tell you. $1.99.

Guh-guh-bu-spluh,

Elissa.

Sketchy

2010-03-04T19:56:00.002-05:00

I felt moved, on my way back from work, to scribble up a "Love x Machine Guns" tee-shirt. Click to enlarge.

I learned a lesson today-- I have two overhead projectors in the back of my car. My Sweets and I won them at an auction for $4 apiece, and we have a plan to use them to project a sweet stencil onto the wall to trace. Well, today, I parked my car in a nice, sunny lot and went to the bank. I came back to my car and threw the literature they'd given me in the back seat, on top of one of the projectors. Then I pounced off to the grocery to pick up some lint rollers, because I'm wearing a lot of black lately, and my cat is white... and sheds like she's got a deadline.

I came back to my car, and saw a guy with a puppy. I thought, "Man-- I can't wait til it's summer. --sniff, sniff-- wow, somebody's roasting marshmallows or something, it smells delicious out here! --in here!!!" I suddenly became aware that my car was completely filled with smoke. I took a panicked inventory and saw a tasty little fire brewing in my backseat. My first thought was that someone had broken into my car and started a fire in there, but no, my own laziness, an overhead projector and some solar serendipity worked together to create a little ambience in the back of my ride.

I grabbed the papers and threw them outside into a puddle, but geez-- if I'd spent more time in the magazine section contemplating Mariska Hargitay's supposed bikini fails then I might be looking up bus routes now.

Projectors. Who knew?

Yours a la flambe,

Elissa.

Love Times Machine Guns.

2010-03-03T15:00:00.001-05:00

Yep, nearly the same outfit as yesterday, but I'm running a semi-reality racket here, folks. And besides, I've improved. Everything thrifted, but the shoes are Miz Mooz.

This week is smacking me up with its busy-ness. Not least of which, I've contracted to write 4 papers for someone on varied classic movies and it's not as much of a cake walk as I imagined. Because I'm a flippant child of the present day, I find watching the classics to be arduous work. I'll never get my eyeful of great old, Hollywood costumes; nor will I ever tire of repeating lines back to the screen in a transcontinental accent. But the conversations themselves are pretty much un-followable. So... winding, and... innuendo-ed. My understanding of most scenes is pretty much suspended until someone gets slapped or chloroformed. He bad. She good. Me like hat.

So it came as a pleasure to me to overhear the following short conversation today between two, energetic young men:

Fred: I still haven't seen Where The Wild Things Are.

Harry: Eh, it's alright.

Fred: Do you think I would like it?

Harry: I dunno, are you a hipster?

Fred: Well, sure, I guess.

Harry: Then you would probably love it "times machine guns".

I nearly convulsed with laughter. It's so... ironic, expressive, timely! Love times machine guns. Well, classic movies may not be exactly my thing, but as long as I'm invested as I am in finishing this project of mine, I might just learn to like them...times tommy guns.

Yours,

Elissa.

Urge to thaw rising... risingggg!!!

2010-03-03T00:53:00.000-05:00

Ahh.... It's a beautiful sight to see, isn't it? Thaw... spring's baby bump. Ha! Today I did some very revelatory thinking early in the morning, so it set me up right for the rest of the day.

I'm 100% Thrifted today, baby. Except for the tights. I don't do the thrifted tights. I did once thrift an unopened package of 80's L'eggs and they literally disintegrated as I wore them, that and the waistband was so aged that it felt like I was wearing the ring from a jug of milk.

I was able for the first time to whip out the trench coat I thrifted in San Francisco--- I gotta imagine that would be the best place to go for cast-off trenches, right? Speaking of cast-offs, I descended on one of my local thrifts today and it was definitely the right decision. Nautical cardigans, a khaki bell skirt a la this J. Crew one that I've been lusting after, a pair of suede Hush Puppies and a hilarious Simpsons tee-shirt featuring Mr. Sparkle!

And oh yes! The clogs! I thrifted these last summer, prescient thing that I am, and much as I love clogs, I'm finding these rather difficult to style but I think it has to do with my distinct lack of leg. It doesn't matter. They're silver, and rhinestone-encrusted, and Michael Kors, betch, so I'll keep practicing til something fashionylicious develops.

Til later,

Elissa.

The new bohemians.

2010-03-01T15:35:00.001-05:00

Bohemian, yes. Boho, eff to the no. If it features embroidery, gauze, tie-dye, gigantic sunglasses or even the faintest whiff of California, I'm out. But if you can manage to project a loose cool despite, I am absolutely in. Here, a round-up of a few things that make me want to take smoking up again.

First up: Blankets. Warm on the bed. Cool on the streets. I'm sorry I just made a hot/cold reference. Such is the cliched world of fashion prose.

via Stockholm Streetstyle

Although the execution is a bit severe for my tastes (my how fickle I am!), it definitely makes me hanker for a blanket from Pendleton Woolen Mills all the more. Why not just use an attractive blanket as a poncho/cape/wrap? I'm starting to rethink the fashion value of Bed, Bath and Beyond.

via 5 Inch and Up

This is just too perfect for words, and makes me abrade myself for being such a slave to actual garments. This is Highland Biker at its pinnacle of chic.

Next up: Layering in the louchest of ways. A sub-category of this one, might just be my fanship of Sandra, writer of 5 Inch and Up. It's a relatively new blog, but she is pretty much a genius with blankets and layers and super beautiful to boot.

via 5 Inch and Up

Speaking of "boots", my other recent blog find is India Rose Knows, and this girl can layer like a mo' and the fact that she is merely 17 makes me want to start looking into retirement communities.

via India Rose Knows

Thirdly: Few can attempt to say her name, but nemrešpobjećodnedjelje's outfits have always been completely original but lately they are knocking my wintry, woolly socks off. Bonus, her great taste permeates her etsy store as well. Get some.

This "insolent gypsy" ensemble smacks of Nicole Richie, but to my mind-- a bit better, sans iniquity. I like the glamourously wrapped, unglamourous scarf and gigantic boots. Legit.

Just woah. The intersection of severe and organic are too good here. And the tie-dyed dress tied with what looks to be a piece of cord? Could it get any better?

The entanglement of scarf and belt are what are doing it for me, here.

Blankets, tie-dye and sequins, oh my!,

Elissa.

Honey : delish :: honey-inspired jewelry : megawant

2010-03-01T01:09:00.002-05:00

I used to hate honey. After I learned in school that it was essentially, bee vomit, I refused to eat it. Since I'm now avoiding sugars and sweeteners, I figure that nature couldn't possibly be wrong and so I've dipped my toe back in the honey-pond, so to say. Now, I can't get enough. I put it on yogurt, toast, berries, in tea, and hopefully, soon... around my neck.

Roosevelt Necklace by Stone and Honey

I love this series of necklaces; each one is organically put together, with each hexagon slightly misshapen. I'm diggin' the "drippy" look of it.

Newport News "Cluster" Necklace

For those who prefer a less dainty approach to jewelry, this bad boy is a delightful metal mix-- always a plus in my book-- and also looks like something you could put together if you went bananas with some hex nuts from Home Depot.

The Harbinger Company Horizontal Honeycomb Necklace via Moxsie

Back to little things, The Harbinger Company actually makes versions of this necklace from tiny-tines here, to full-on bib. I appreciate the regular, digital rhythm to this piece... the stark geometry of it all takes on a lightness with the abundance of negative space.

Dixon Necklace by Stone and Honey

Swoon, die. I'm in love. Put this in my mailbox and I'll be your paparazzi.

Alanna Bess Raw Amethyst Slice Necklace via Gilt Fuse

This one actually has nothing to do with honeycombs, but after I found the last piece, I got into the agate-zone and couldn't get back out. But seriously. Look at this thing. It's like an agate... dipped in honey. Mwah.

Til next time,

Elissa.

PS-- you can now Follow my blog with bloglovin !!

Badum-ching!

2010-02-28T02:13:00.000-05:00

Outfit loosely inspired by The Waves. Blouse: Thrifted. Jeans: NY&Co. Boots: Jeffrey Campbell.

Today was spent at an all-day comedy workshop and festival. Even though my not-too-terribly secret ambition is to one day to stand-up, improv, or hell-- maybe both, I was feeling neither here nor there about going to the thing. Spontaneity is not my forte when it comes to going places.

But my brother-in-law drug me from my cave and we commenced to workshopping. First we did two hours worth of improvisational exercises, which are a ton of fun if you don't mind making an ass of yourself. I totally don't mind. Then we did an hour of learning about stand-up comedy, then practiced writing jokes around prompts. My prompt started, "I used to date a guy that worked at White Castle..."

Meow... I iz expanding my repertoire of pozez...

"...He was cute, you know, he was nice. Nice guy... but the smell he'd come home with-- steamed onions, hanging in the air, on his clothes, on his... fingers... wet meat, homelessness. It was an olfactory mess, and you know, you can only be so nice, I mean at the end, it was just not what I crave."

Eh? Eh?

The rest of the evening was devoted to watching some of the local comedians and improv troupes do their thing and it was good-- actually great, I wasn't aware there was such comedic talent in my little burg! And good people, too. To be continued...?

Yours,

Elissa

What steel wool and roman candles have in common...

2010-02-25T15:48:00.001-05:00

I am certainly not a stranger to the art of light-writing, but Dana of Twin Cities Brightest has taken it to a whole, other level.

Singing in the rain-- of showering sparks... most of his images are created with sparklers, roman candles, and ignited steel wool swung at the end of a string.

There is an awesome DIY tutorial here. I have a hankering to do an outfit photo like this, but methinks my array of non-flammable clothing is sorely lacking...

Feeling sparkly,

Elissa.

Something is better than nothing.

2010-02-23T17:36:00.000-05:00

In a year in which success is measured by how much liquid hand soap you've saved by diluting it with water, and making 2 meals out of a #4 at Wendy's; dressing well, if you can manage, seems to make all the difference. For instance, upon learning today that most of my assets are tied up in a gift card to Anthropologie, I was met with a ~~minor~~ frantic moment of despair.

Two is better than one. Blouse: thrifted. Skirt: NY&Co. Tights: Gift. Shoes: MIA. Coat: Dollhouse. Scarf: Anthropologie. Jewelry: thrifted.

Suddenly, I was distracted by something pink-- as you may or most likely may not recall, my artistic venture of the year is a taking a picture every day; each month is assigned a color theme. February's is pink.

I pulled over to get a picture of the patio furniture my favorite restaurant put out-- unused, still, and will be for awhile-- but our recent rainy days have washed out most of the snow and people are starting to feel optimistic. As I snapped away, I thought to myself; I've got my little crocheted tights on and my pink shoes and my swingy red coat, and still taking the time out to do something non-essential that I enjoy. I felt Grey Gardens poor, not 8-Mile poor. And besides. I see that I have some assets that need liquidating, in the form of this, this, or this.

Mmmm.... ruffles, toile, and pastels, oh my!,

Elissa.

Z, Z, X, Z... damn!!

2010-02-21T19:41:00.001-05:00

www.johnvidas.com

I think that reaching the last level of Castle of Illusion signaled the end of my video game playing days. Since, I've dabbled in Loderunner and The Incredible Machine, but I really don't get wrapped up in it. I find that the advent of a third dimension in video game play is a little too demanding of my willingness for involvement-- sort of like dating a guy without a car. You're always going to end up putting more into that situation than you'd like.

However, a friend of mine has turned me on to the magic of Adult Swim's Robot Unicorn Attack-- starring a close cousin of what I imagine to be a Spandex Pony. With a happy soundtrack, and comfortingly nostalgic side scrolling action, this is a game I could easily play for 5 minutes or 30, and not risk exacerbating my acne or smelling my room up with stale socks.

And the soundtrack? Why, it's Erasure's "Always". I thought you might also enjoy the horrifically awesome video; so timely in it's transitional setting of winter to spring...

Trying to beat my high score of 23340,

Elissa.

Elissa and her Sweets' Pastel Pastiche

2010-02-20T14:55:00.000-05:00

A month or so ago, I mentioned that my friend had taken pictures of our house as part of an Apartment Therapy reporter-audition. Well.... the post is finally up there so I'm free to put it on here... welcome, all-- you can check out the Apartment Therapy post here, as well!

"White house, red door". Could be a shop at the mall. To the right, a little 1960's serving cart on wheels that our mail normally ends up on in the winter; in summer, I intend to put a pitcher of cucumber water on it. Up above the cart is a large chalkboard on which we normally write "Welcome" and then if we expect anyone, their name underneath-- "Welcome Jenny" for example. Usually when these folks leave they end up drawing boobs and things on it. I'm sure the neighbors (old folks, a pack of drag queens, homeless people pushing shopping carts) love us.

Herrrrre's the living room! The couch we got on Ebay, and I have to admit that I hated it when I first saw it-- being much more a Hollywood Regency kind of gal, I recoiled at its rectangularity, it's lack of... velvet upholstery. But in the context of all the other colors of the room I've grown to love it. Whenever it needs reupholstered, I'd like to keep the color, but maybe do it in suede. Almost everything else was gotten at a thrift or antique store, except for the rug (Ikea) and the Frank Lloyd Wright-style lamps at either end of the picture (Home Depot).

The main difficulty with the living room is that because of this fireplace (semi-nonworking), it's hard to find a good place for the TV. Putting a TV on a mantle almost seems like sacrilege, but there it stays, and, like Republicans to the plight of the poor, I have turned a blind eye. We temper its harsh newness with the cat's chair, which is ONLY the cat's chair. It was picked up off the street and reupholstered with faux fur.

She LOVES this chair.

One of my favorite things about the house is looking from the living room into the dining room. I just love, love, love these colors (which are Dutch Boy's "Green River" and Valspar's "Rainwater").

My Sweets formerly had a pretty good-sized collection of these types of buffets, or record players that looked like buffets. This is the one that remains, and it mostly holds records, DVDs and mail we'd rather ignore. The chairs and dinette I picked up off the street and reupholstered.

From the dining room to the kitchen, here we have a rotating display of our favorite glassware, which would be our biggest indulgence, if you could call spending $7 on a set at the thrift an indulgence. But nevertheless, we have a hulking collection of glassware. These are our current faves, resting on a cutting board we got from Canoe in Portland.

A cooking book with rad illustrations, skewers we use for parties or to grab a bit of what we're cooking out of the pan to taste it. The vase comes courtesy of housewarming gift we got from a friend, originally filled with daisies.

We have two sinks in our kitchen. This is the original one; a newer one is on the opposite side of the kitchen.

I love the built in wooden cabinets... don't love the holes in the floor from where the previous owners removed a swinging door. I didn't choose the valance, it came with the place, but with the blue, I don't mind it. I fantasize about replacing it with a white one that has lemons on it, or better yet, bananas.

A view of the pantry... above which my sweets hung a couple of love birds he found at the thrift...

Here's where the cat takes prandial refuge, in front of a portrait he did of her. Perhaps we're projecting our desires onto the cat, but who wouldn't like a large portrait of themselves in the dining room?

And continuing our journey, up the stairs which are currently decorated with a Tord Boontje garland...

This stained glass window was a gift from my parents for our wedding... it regally presides over the top of the stairs.

Now, I'll be the first to admit that all of the upstairs rooms need help. We worked on the downstairs first, because when people come over, it's usually all that they see. So much has happened since we moved in 3 months ago, that proper attention has not been (able to be) paid to all of the rest of the rooms, but a couple of things, nonetheless, are going right. In the bathroom you see above, the magazine rack and a picture of an ice cream cone hanging out on the door of the non-functioning laundry chute. The ice cream cone belonged to the same swinging-door removing folks who have a top-notch ice cream joint in town. The infamous window is where Stella the Cat spends most of her days, and our most recent addition, a mobile of little ships that we got in San Francisco.

Here, a little detail shot of the top of my dresser in the bedroom..

And here, a closeup of one of a pair of mid-century bedside tables which are both generously huge, being nearly 2.5 feet on each side, and insanely cheap for $30 apiece at my favorite antique mall. We seriously need to get to work on getting the bedroom just right. Til then, just know that it is incredibly white.

And, last but not least, the office, in its undone state. I plan on painting it in the next couple of weeks, and maybe finding a red (or cheetah!) slipcover for the pull-out couch where guests spend the night. The table is huge, but amazing-- we got it for $25 and repainted it.

As you can see, the surface of the table is amazing, and what originally drew us to it. Since the office is mostly "my room" (his is in the basement) this is where I keep my girly accoutrements, like a bowl-full of nail polishes as a centerpiece on the table. I painted my nails today with the L'Oreal one to the far right. Fleur de Lis, is what it's called.

Well, nuff of that-- now I feel naked, but I really loved the photos my friend took for us and wanted to share them... they'll definitely go in a memory book for sure.

Even if you know where you are is not where you are going to be, it's worth the time to make the present digs livable and lovable. What do you love about where you live?

Yours,

Elissa.

After much gnashing of teeth and pulling of hair...

2010-02-18T22:49:00.000-05:00

Still Life With Smirkiness.

Do not adjust your RSS feeds... I'm slinking back into the blogging mode. After taking a sabbatical that resulted in me taking more photos and getting intensely into Twitter, I feel like I'm ready to hop back on. Coming back to this, my original blog, was not really my intention... in fact, I started Tumblr and Wordpress blogs in the meantime, because I was starting to get that crusty feeling from Blogger.

If this, my first post back, can help you with anything, it's this: If you're thinking of starting a blog or switching platforms, here's a short, non-expert's guide on Blogger, Tumblr and Wordpress:

Blogger:

1) Best for journal-style blogs.

2) Incredibly easy to use, publish, upload photos, monetize, and add widgets.

3) Extremely limited number of themes.

4) Not so much of a blogger community.

Tumblr:

1) Extremely fun, community-based blogging. The dashboard rules. A jillion, great themes.

2) Best for "scrapbook" style blogs, sort of a more image-oriented Twitter.

3) I love the "share on Tumblr" button you can get for your tool bar, blog pretty much anything instantly.

4) A good dose of code-knowledge is necessary in order to do things that are pretty basic on Blogger, like create a blog roll. Also, uploading pictures from your drive was a pain in the ass.

5) Difficult to monetize.

Wordpress:

1) Considered the best option if you eventually are aiming for your blog to become superbigtime.

2) Fairly straight-forward posting, great community

3) Adding widgets a bit trickier than Blogger.

4) I felt like the Dashboard was dull and didn't get me interested in writing.

In fact, I weighed whether to come back as "Spandexpony". It didn't feel like "me" any more, and what's more, it doesn't "mean" anything. Also, I had quit.

That all changed today when, I was watching a live feed of the Isaac Mizrahi show thanks to Mary Rambin of More Than Mary... I was tweeting little things about it all throughout, when, at the end, she thanked her Twitter friends on camera for their support and I was in there! Yes, I'm an extremely huge dweeb, but hearing "Spandexpony" mentioned in a room where I know Russell Simmons and Isaac Mizrahi both are was kind of a thrill.

So, I decided, what I've got is good, and I'm going back. With an improved attitude. I can't be what I was, but I am what I am. If you liked me before, you'll probably like me now, unless you're pretty stalwart.

I look forward to again being able to express myself in the best way I know how-- writing, and also the second-best way I know how-- visually. Also, I can't wait to get back in touch with you all, and meet quite a few more of you along the way.

Yours,

Elissa.

Yours, Elissa.

2010-01-24T13:39:00.002-05:00

This morning I was rolling my eyes along to a radio talk show where they featured a social media expert. "All that means," said my Sweet, "is that they have a Twitter account." I snorted to myself, "I could be a social media expert."

But I would never try to pawn myself off as an expert, even though I frequently fantasize about Catch Me If You Can-type things like passing myself off as a heart surgeon for one malpractice-mired day... I'm involved in social media, but I definitely don't use it to its greatest extent. As we drove along to the strains of the Wu Tang Clan, I became increasingly agitated.

"I feel bad," I said.

"What's the deal, baby seal?" replied he.

"Ech, I dunno. It's stupid," I paused, "The social media expert set me off. I'm annoyed with my blog."

"Hm..."

"It's just, I have this blog, I have this Twitter account and Flickr and all of these other things with my name on it, and I don't know what I'm saying to anybody anymore. It doesn't really mean anything. But then again, I don't want to quit because, what a thing to waste!"

"You gotta not have this hoarder's mentality about your social media," Sweets concluded, and funnily, his diagnosis ended my months of inner turmoil (really) about whether to continue on with SpandexPony.

My raison d'etre is no longer there. I've come to a point in my life where what I am and what I'm doing right now don't vibe with the spirit of this blog any more. I need time off, to figure out what I'm doing next. I've very much enjoyed writing and photographing and sharing it with all of you, reading your comments and visiting your blogs, as well. I'll still keep up with my photos on Flickr, and probably occasionally Tweet things in lieu of bookmarking them-- you know, cool shops, great ideas I've found... you can find the links to those accounts in the sidebar.

If and when I return to blogging, I'll be sure to post something on here and/or Tweet it as well. In the meantime, I'll be reading and commenting on yours. Thanks, dear readers, for contributing a bit of glamour into an ordinary girl's life. I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed the past two years.

Take care,

Elissa.

Cool you off.

2010-01-22T10:08:00.006-05:00

Just sayin... that I had to pull down my previous post temporarily because the time was not "ripe", so to say... it'll be back!

But in the meantime, I'd like to invite you to my other blog-- Elegant Balloons. If you get the reference you are OBSCURE sir! And if you don't, I invite you to check out the stand-up stylings of Paul F Thompkins (Thank you Sara Louise!).

My photo-a-day project is coming along nicely-- and by nicely, I mean, I'm adhering to doing it, not necessarily that I'm going to start doing art for greeting cards. BUT, if you'd like to see my photo of the day (this month is white-- think I'm going pink for February), check out Elegant Balloons.

Til Later....

Elissa.

Whee.

2010-01-18T00:13:00.003-05:00

Today was a very low-key birthday... me and my Sweets first went to a dog adoption event. We've really been jonesing for a dog for the past year or so, but finding a good match may take much longer than we anticipated. I want small(ish), he wants big; I like scruffy, he likes smooth. I want chill, he wants playful--- somewhere there's a medium-sized dog with a short, wiry coat and adaptable nature just waiting for us. To be continued...

I look so creeper don't I? Anyway, I've got on a Sweater: TJ Maxx, Blouse: thrifted. Jeans: NY&Co. Shoes: MIA. Broach: thrifted. I'm starting to really like wearing broaches as an alternative to earrings or necklaces. They're out of the way, and not so much a pain in the gadinga as --ahem-- cheap earrings that my ears are finally rejecting after many years of abuse.

Later, we caught "Sherlock Holmes"-- ruled! I happen to love well-choreographed fight scenes in movies, and if you do, too-- or just enjoy watching Robert Downey, Jr. as I do, then you'll love this flick. Extra bonus? The art during the ending credits. Later, it was a sushi fiesta, and let's just say that I'm still recovering. Gawd.

A friend of mine is auditioning to be an apartment scout for Apartment Therapy... I was honored that she sent in snaps of our house as her submission. My office, as you can see, is still in disarray, to say the least, but she definitely has an eye for staging her photographs well. When they pop up on the site I'll give you all a look-see!

Yours,

Elissa.

Pieced together.

2010-01-15T15:00:00.002-05:00

Michelle Repici will make you love winter, crave pattern, and develop a crush on chinoiserie. Her art is a happy combination of all that I love-- collage, texture, and photography.

A Hazy Shade of Winter, 2009

A Moment Suspended in Time, 2008

Check out the rest of her work here.

I'm off to Cincinnati today to visit with my parents and do an early birthday dinner for myself, and a late birthday dinner for my brother.

Til Later,

Elissa.

Find of the moment.

2010-01-13T18:17:00.002-05:00

If you've been reading for awhile, you know that I have periodic flare-ups of Doc Martens lust. Then I buy a pair and am crushed upon rediscovering that heavy, mannish boots do nothing to make me look like Bridget Fonda in Singles. In fact, they are so unflattering as to make me look like I have an agenda.

Doc Martens Darcie

These, on the other hand, do-able, and surprisingly, most doable in the cherry-red color-- which in a pair of Docs brings skinheads vividly to mind, but in a heel, the freewheeling 70's. I'd like to pair them with cabled tights and a dress, or boyfriend jeans and a midriff top and truly get my Ciara on.

Yours,

Elissa.

Try not to be mesmerised.

2010-01-12T19:17:00.001-05:00

There is no way that you will not want a slinky, a cigarette, or both after watching this mesmerizing test footage from Henri-Georges Clouzot's unfinished film "L'enfer".

Rummaging through my drawers to find my glitter,

Elissa.

Wedding!

2010-01-10T23:13:00.011-05:00

I'll have to apologize for the delay in posting... there are just so many photos (thankfully) that I felt harried just looking at all of the CDs and jump drives people had given us. Yikes! But I did want to share with you all, so here goes!

These are our invitations. My Sweets designed them himself. See our cat on them? We were going for an Art Deco-y theme, and the Conservatory where the event was held served as inspiration for the invites as well.

Here's a bit of how the Conservatory looked on the inside. We did an evening wedding in their greenhouse. At the time of the wedding, they were having a Dale Chihuly exibit, so in addition to all of the beautiful plants throughout the building, there were these huge, festive, Medusa-like glass sculptures hanging from the cieling, sprouting from the koi pond, or interspersed among the flora.

Photo: Kevin James.

Here's the dress! It was beaded, ivory lace on top of champagne silk. I loved, loved, loved the low back! My father and brother played guitar and violin while people got seated; then our friends Angie and Jenny sang and played piano during the ceremony. The songs? "In My Life", by the Beatles; "At Last", by Etta James, and "This Will Be Our Year", by the Zombies.

As mentioned before, we had a Dudeist wedding, as Russell and I were initially joined by a common love of The Big Lebowski. The officiant became ordained a priest in the Dudeist faith, and wrote the most hilarious, Lebowski-referencing service ever. Russell's and my vows were also reference heavy. And yes, he is a good man, and thorough.

Photo: Kevin James.

Here, a pic of my Sweets and his Dude of Honor, his brother.

Hair thing by Hems and Bustles. Flowers by Flowers on Orchard Lane. Photo: Kevin James.

And me, and my own little Bunny Lebowski. The flowers I was pretty particular about, and they turned out wonderful. There's foxtail fern, delphinium, hypericum berries, and ostrich feathers in them thar flowers.

I've even got blue tights and peach-colored shoes! Tights: We Love Colors. Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Michelle.

Our colors were peach, silver and navy blue. We did huge, ostrich feather centerpieces and the table numbers were all actually guestbooks that we made, each bound with silver ribbon. We made feather pens and put them in bud vases filled with rice on each table so folks could sign them. It looked awesome.

The favors we gave out were little sachets we made with pillow mints inside of them, along with ye standarde tube of bubbles from The Knot, housed in these funny "Pick Your Nose" cups from Perpetual Kid. As you can see, people had a lot of fun with them, and they were really inexpensive-- we got 110 favors for around $100.

Photo: Kevin James.

One of my very favorite parts of the wedding was our tango! We took about 8 lessons to get it right. Russell really was not into taking lessons at first, but soon he really started enjoying himself and then became quite the perfectionist! In fact, he suggested that every Halloween (which will be our anniversary), we learn a new dance and perform it in costume at whichever party we happen to haunt. My father and brother played the music for our dance, which made it that much more special.

After the dance came cake-- lemon raspberry! I ordered it from my very favorite bakery in my hometown of Cincinnati, Bonbonerie. They are awesome, and totally accommodating. I designed this cake myself, using Photoshop and our invitations as a guide. I even bought the silver ribbon and had it mailed to them! The cake toppers are salt and pepper shakers that I found at an antique store a couple of weeks before the wedding; and they've since been re-purposed as commemorative Christmas ornaments.

How do you reconcile Halloween dress with wedding attire? Why, simply mandate "flamboyant formal" as the dress code on your invitations. I loved seeing what people came up with; if I had to do it again, I'd do a full-on, costumed blow-out. My friend Jenny (center photo, with me) made these amazing, crazy animal heads out of bedsheets, amongst other things. They were a huge hit.

Photo: Kevin James.

And that's about it! The rest is history-- let me refer you here for honeymoon stories and pictures! If I had to do it over again, I'd a) keep it a little simpler. I didn't count on the people attending making most of the wonderful memories for me; I thought I'd have to manufacture them myself. But it just goes to show, that unless you're in an extreme case, people are coming because they like you and want to have a good time. B) I'd ask for more help. I was fiercely independent in the planning of this wedding, though I definitely have quite a few people to thank (literally, I still haven't sent thank-yous. Eeek!). But it definitely did get overwhelming at times, and it wasn't until I started talking to people that I learned that a friend of mine used to be a florist and has connections to wholesale flowers (after I already signed a contract with my florist).

Thanks a ton to all of you, dear readers, for offering me support and encouragement before, during and after! If you'd like to see more photos, feel free to peruse my Flickr set here. If you'd like any advice, or to know where to look for anything, I am more than happy to help! And yes, I have a heaping stack of Elegant Bride and Martha Stewart Weddings if you want those, too.

Yours,

Elissa.

Mmm.... usic.

2010-01-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

I can't get this damn song out of my head! So good.

And in an age where many attempt to be adorably terrible, this video truly succeeds.

Yours,

Elissa.

Redirection.

2010-01-09T23:26:00.002-05:00

In my formative years, I was a violinist in the orchestra. For concerts, we would wear white oxford shirts with black slacks or skirts. I always chose the skirts. For some reason (probably my faulty laundering or explosive growth rate) my skirts were always super short. My sense of propriety remained unperturbed, however, until I became known as Short Skirt Girl. I worried a bit about being "Short Skirt Girl" today, but I figured a sizeable chapeau would excuse my skirtly transgressions.

Hat: H&M. Sweater: Victoria's Secret. Skirt: Thrifted. Thermal: Target. Tights: Gift from my moms. Scarf: Anthropologie. Shoes: Wanted.

I love writing and taking photos, cool-hunting on the Internets, having rapport with all of you good bloggy people and of course, catching up with my old friends, fashion and design. But sometimes I lose sight of what exactly I'm doing on here, and then I need to reassess.

Therefore, I'm switching my focus a bit away from personal style, because I don't really think that's the most interesting thing about me. In fact, it's getting to be less and less interesting, because a) I have no money and b) I have seriously recommitted myself to getting into shape. I've been saying it for like a year, but you have to get your mind right first, and it wasn't. Now it is. But still, although I will continue to enjoy taking and sharing some photos for ya'll of yours truly, I gotta move away from the every day self-photo taking activities, because I can't handle the self-scrutinizing.

I mean, seriously, when you get to trying to figure out how to Photoshop your legs longer, it's time to stop taking photos of yourself. It's not my job, and no one requires it of me, and it may possibly be one of the least interesting things I could offer to all of you. And I mean that to myself as a compliment.

The first one to tell me what I've Photoshopped in the above photos gets a free mystery prize! Please leave an email address with your comment. Good luck!!

Yours,

Elissa.

Blizzard, if you will.

2010-01-08T19:23:00.003-05:00

For the last week or so, it's been snowing non-stop. I love it when the snow is too deep to navigate successfully in my tiny car --and bald tires. The layers, puffer jacket, glittens and industrial-strength socks and boots come out and I march off around the neighborhood to complete my errands, or, as I pretend to myself-- grab the essential medicines and supplies or else everyone will freeze and starve to death.

...or get eaten by giant spiders.

Check out these marvelously magical/creepy/beautiful/haunting snow globes by artists Walter Martin and Paloma Munoz. All of you in more southerly climes will be clamoring for a little bit snow-- real or in a globe-- yourselves...

Going outside,

Elissa.

Birthday wishin's.

2010-01-07T23:57:00.005-05:00

My little ol' birthday is coming down the turnpike (yes, that very same birthday and turnpike shared with Sal, my birthday twin). Last year's was so very good that I could easily pass this one without notice -- I think. In case I change my mind, here's what you can bring to my birthday party at the roller rink.

Siamese Hunting Man Pendant

Deer? Done 'em. Still like 'em though. Antlered Siamese twins? This, I gotta wear.

Brooklyn Bridge Ring

I'm really hitting the jewelry sites hard these days. I read somewhere that double rings were now a bloggy cliche, and it is true that J.Lo wore this in one of her more recent videos, but damn if I don't get a thrill from this piece! Me want.

Buffalo London Studded Heels

I spent most of my teen years in a punky state of mind; I wore a studded dog collar to a job interview, if I remember correctly; and spent my days in JNCO's and bondage pants. Now that studs have come around again, it's sort of like passing Chipotle after college. You just don't want it anymore. Disturbingly, however, I find myself strongly attracted to these heels. Maybe it's the Roxie Hart shape. Maybe it's the Nancy Reagan shade.

Einshop Houses Bag

I love LeSportSac, but the "cartooniest" my tastes veer might be Marimekko (although I am quite partial to Tokidoki and Insight's animal series tanks). This one looks like the two brands met up and had a baby and called it Handbag. The house print? Impeccable.

Jagger Trilogy Ring

I think it was DeBeers who first came out with ads for "right-hand rings". Perhaps because fewer people are getting married, or getting married later. If you want that bling, better get it for yourselves ladies! But do make sure to put it on your right hand. Whatta bunch of hooey. Although, this ring from Macha has me thinking, you know, I really should just go out there and reward myself.

Yours,

Elissa.

Your Daily White

2010-01-04T00:12:00.003-05:00

And speaking of white... cue Billy Idol... I have a confession to make. While I was planning my wedding this past year, I had visions of ultra-impressive photos-to-prove-it gracing my blog. I (and several of my near and dears) put a lot of heart and soul into planning the thing, and I convinced myself that this was my one opportunity to prove that I was the goddess of putting together attractive, formal events. Well. Ladies, I offer you my one Over-Arching Piece of Advice. As long as you are going to the trouble, spend good money on a photographer whose style you absolutely love.

After all of the arrangements, and because we were inviting so many people, we didn't have much left over for a photographer. We scoured local art schools to find one that would fit the bill-- literally-- and found a couple of students that we really liked. A friend of a friend heard of our search and said he would do it. And I'd seen his photos-- they were really dramatic, fashion-editorial type photos, so I jumped at the opportunity. Yes, we'd love to have you!

As I later found out, a wedding is not a fashion photo shoot and my family and I are not models. Many, many of the photos that I got back were unflattering to all involved, and missed important details that I'd put a lot of time into-- the tables, the programs, the flowers. I expected to gaze on my photos like the ones I'd gazed upon in magazines, but lo-- too many chins here, too sweaty there. Gawd. I was crushed! And it isn't the photog's fault-- a wedding involves too many conflicting factors for the inexperienced, coupled with the fact that despite what you see here on this blog, I don't love posing for photos; I freeze up and get weird. The factors, oh!-- the factors!

Now that I've had two months to cool down about it (and the same amount of time to track down photos that friends and family took), I'm now able to look at my amassed collection as a whole. When I look at them-- some, yes-- sweaty, awkward, blurry, underexposed; regardess, I see my closest friends, family, my husband and myself having a wonderful, colorful time.

I'll be telling my story for you (in both words and pictures) in the next couple of days. I'm excited now to share with you the fun that we had, and not just plastically try to impress you with my hawt dress and ohmigod the centerpieces.

Damn, kids! Humble pie. It tastes good.

Yours,

Elissa.

Making Good.

2010-01-02T13:21:00.003-05:00

January. New. White. It just made sense. I'm starting off on the good foot with my 365 Days in Color project. This month's color is White.

January 1st -- The Lights on Our Mantle.

January 2nd -- Stella in the Window.

I love this one. She begs and begs for us to open this window for her so she can guard the backyard from the sill or by prowling the roof.

Tonight, we're going to a local mountain -- if you can call it that, this is Ohio after all -- to go night-tubing, BYO Flask. That should present plenty of opportunities for white-finding!

Yours,

Elissa.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T14:45:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year 1955!, originally uploaded by RickRaven.

Everyone seems to be echoing the same sentiment-- 2010 will be an auspicious year...

Funny, because I felt giddy at the beginning of 2009, and a bit deflated at the dawn of this new decade. The prospect of creating self-flagellating "won't do's" known as resolutions doesn't wag my tail either, so I'm devoting this profoundly sleepy work-day to compiling a list of things I'd actually like to be doing in 2010.

1. Go skiing. I love it. I never do it.

2. Go ice-skating. Ditto.

3. I'm going to follow CassiaB's lead-- (her blog is fantastic, by the way) and work on photographic project similar to her 365 Days in Colour one she did for this past year.

4. I'd like to create at least one garment per month. I newly received a dress form, now's the time to put it to work.

5. Get an outfit like Miss 1955's up there to ring in 2011.

What about you? What would you like to accomplish during this next year?

Yours,

Elissa.

Not a test.

2009-12-21T23:34:00.003-05:00

Hey everybody, just needed to pop in and let you all know that I've been working 10-12 hour days every day these last few weeks, and so finding zero time to get anything done, much less blogging or being able to fly around on the Internet seeking new and exciting things.

And so-- I might not get any good, bloggy respite until well after the holidays, but that means-!! Dunh dunh dunh... missing my blog's 2 year anniversary at the end of this month. 2 years ago, I got a Mac from my Sweets, and decided that its superior computing abilities leant itself well to creating a little digital soapbox for myself.

I love reading your comments and visiting your blogs, but it's going to have to be on the back burner, at least for a little while. Take care, everyone, and enjoy the holidays!

PS-- It's the Solstice today, so it's only going to get lighter from here.

Yours,

Elissa.

Playing dress-up.

2009-12-11T01:47:00.002-05:00

So, a decline in my personal health led to my week-long blogging respite, but now I'm back. I felt a bit like this flaccid woman, below.

Apparently, you can't just stop taking your thyroid supplements because you have decided that you're cured.

This picture comes as part of a perverse little series by fashion-photographer Giorgio Z Gatti. I found it on a site called "You Might Like This" and frankly I'd be scared to know anyone who "might like" this editorial consisting of a child dressing a woman, in one scene pulling up her underwear. Like, GROSS!

Seriously, I hate it when people twist kids' heads around like this just to make some kind of artistic impression. You can't tell me that the climate of this shoot was totally sanitary and they all had snacks and listened to Raffi.

Reminds me of this scene in Bruno where he interviews kids' parents to see what they're willing to do with their children to get them into movies.

GAH!

Til Later,

Elissa.

Sleep-blogging.

2009-12-03T01:57:00.002-05:00

There comes a time, when a girl has freshly painted the dining room, and she's too exhausted to blog much, but she still wants to put something out there. That time is now.

Oh. Meow. Shirt: Thrifted. Pencil Skirt: NY&Co. Tights: We Love Colors. Shoes: Thrifted.

We've painted our dining room before, a light gray color, but it just wasn't too impressive. It was an antiques store in San Fran that spurred us onto this color (Valspar's "Rainwater", if ya'd like to know)-- a wall was painted a similar color as a backdrop to all kinds of gold, silver and crystal things. Yum.

Blue isn't usually among my favorite colors, but I'm certainly having a period of it. After seeing this picture on Lucky's site, I immediately decided that my office/crafts room had to have the exact color scheme above. And as for style? I've always loved bright colors and Rococo-fussy findings and furnishings, so I've been hitting up both books and Internet to fully hone my Hollywood Regency leanings...

[images via dearada.typepad.com]

And now, I retire. I swear. Painting. This, and my epic bathroom-cleaning episode. I'm out!

Zzzzz,

Elissa.

Fox me, Fox you!

2009-11-30T10:38:00.004-05:00

There was a moment in between seeing this Wardrobe Remix image of tinytoadstool from dadaya....

The whole thing is wholesome and delicious, but are you seeing that scarf??

...and seeing this Rose Print by Marisol Spoon...

Red cape hearkening back to Little Red Riding hood, check; Painting of Blythe-like girl hearkening back to those weird little Seventies paintings of girls you see in cheesy vintage stores, check; fennec fox as hat??? Checkmate!!

...a desire to adorn myself in all things foxy has burgeoned.

Fake Won't Kill Tee by DesignersPlayground

I admire cause clothing. My favorite tee was one by Kenneth Cole that came out a few years ago that said, "In war, it's not who's right but who's left." I really wanted to buy it, but the truth of the matter is I hate having words on my clothing. They're out of my control. People don't have to interact with me in order to "communicate" with me (or rather, for me to force a one-way, reciprocation-undesired-and-unwelcome message) and it's just not my cuppa. I'm sure that my sticklerism for wordless tees have robbed some of my favorite causes of well over $6 in the past few years.

This tee, however, is many things, not least of which a message. To the casual observer, it just looks cool, to a less-casual observer, a vintage throw-back, to an arty observer it's a bit of trompe l'oeil and to the conscientious observer, the shirt demonstrates that you don't have to kill a fox to borrow it's foxy good looks, and that a hipster with a little cash can manage to look as good, if not better (by way of earning humanity points) than the biddy with her actual fox carcass accessory. All that for $14. I call a winner.

Cross Stitch Fox Badge by TreeFox

Though tiny, still covetable. I definitely don't go for the crafty aesthetic, but this is neat and well-made enough to earn a little nesting place on my cardigan for sure.

Silver Fox Stole Necklace by bbel

Gorgeous! Not sure how you'd wear it-- as in, if it has a closure, but if it truly is a "stole" necklace then maybe not. I love how tiny and detailed the cutouts are. So clever... clever like a fox!

Ginger Foks Short by Celapiu

This being the scarf showcased in the first photo, I can't get enough of it. It comes in a zillion colors and lengths (I'm stymied until I decide between short and long) and even a tiny child-sized version. In my parlance, "Adorbs!!"

Well, time to get ready and get outta here... stay foxy, ya'lls!

Yours,

Elissa.

Battle of the Long Sweaters

2009-11-29T05:33:00.003-05:00

Sometimes, even to those of us who are vehemently non-duplicatory, we find an outfit that feels so right that it bears repeating. These occasions happen most frequently when we stay out late the night before and then get up really early the next morning. In my case, I truly get a crusty feeling if I wear the exact same thing as the day before-- as if I haven't let the previous day slip into the past-- and so, I switch it up ever so incrementally. Behold-- Fancy Dinner Outfit vs. Work Outfit.

Dress: Twelve By Twelve. Tights: Target. Tree that is the epitomization of all of my Christmas Fantasies: Target.

Same dress, same tights, same pose. Oh, you original thing! Fancy Dinner Outfit features one of my favorite Portland souvenirs, this ultra-warm and soft sweater coat with a ruffled edge from 3 Monkeys. Work Outfit features a wrap cardigan from Victoria's Secret that truly is the bomb. Soft, relatively machine-washable and oh so many iterations, this one got a work out last winter and will probably meet it's death by the end of this winter. Today, it's belted. Belt? Where are you from? I think this black, patent number may have come with a shirt I bought.

Necklace (left): H&M. Necklace (right): Gumball Machine.

Fancy Dinner outfit includes big, chunky wooden beads interspersed with little rhinestone charms. A souvenir from San Francisco's H&M, which, in the hour I had between Alcatraz and poisonous (although delicious) oysters, I descended on in a panic when my suitcase yielded entirely unsuitable jewelry. Work Outfit called for the more demure, golden ice-cream cone. Twenty-five cents very well spent, and I think it has a bit more mileage than both the fetid jawbreaker and deformed, gelatinous hand that were also available.

Fancy Dinner Shoes: Pink Duchess. Work Outfit Shoes: Etienne Aigner.

Well, Cat certainly has picked a winner here... she's a shoe-hoverer, for sure. These gray-and-black ballet flats are in very regular rotation, and, like many of my shoes are possibly a half-size too big. I chalk this up to the fact that I normally shop mid-day, when feet are known to swell. It's a cousin of the "wear your big pants to Thanksgiving" rationale.

Til next time,

Yours,

Elissa.

Gobblegobble!

2009-11-26T13:46:00.004-05:00

Whether you'll be with the family today eating turkey, or merely riding one frantically through a cornfield, I wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!

Now, shut up and try my pie!

(That's what she said.)

Thankfully yours,

Elissa.

[photos via terr-bo and synthetic_tom, respectfully.]