Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Christian Dior Spring 2011 Ads

Now that spring has sprung I'm already feeling the oppressive heat of an Ohio summer on it's heels. I refuse to run around dumpy, sweaty, and wearing Old Navy flip flops this summer. These Dior ads are just what the doctor ordered: divine inspiration to keep cool while still looking chic and fabulous. This runway collection was described as Bettie Page vacationing in the South Pacific. As the temperatures rise I will be relying on color, platform sandals, fabulous hair and a little bronzer to get me through the season.


Saturday, April 23, 2011

Weekly Expense Report


The new "Weekly Expense Report" feature will chronicle all the retrofabulous purchases I've made that week. This blog has a heavy emphasis on shopping since shopping supports a lifestyle. This feature is intended to show that I practice what I preach.
My fab find of the week, this Tarina Tarantino necklace that retails $150 popped up on Ideeli for only $32. There was not any hesitation involved. This will be my first piece of Tarina Tarantino!
I went ahead and placed my Shoedazzle order for the month. I couldn't decide between just one so I picked up both Coraline and Prance. I used my credit for Coraline and found a coupon code for 20% off Prance, and since Prance is from the casual line I got double reward points so I'm well on my way to free shoes. Order was under $70 all in. I love Shoedazzle!
A trip to Ikea to pick up some furniture for the new apartment resulted in bringing home the massive Trollsta sidebar ($349) and the more diminutive side table($25 on sale, check your local store). I'm in love with both pieces but I regret not buying another side table or two--the little guy is so handy!



Ever since I saw Doe Deere's photo shoot I've been looking for that polish. China Glaze has a great dupe called Four Leaf Clover ($4). Sally's Beauty Supply is having buy 2 get 1 free on all polish this month. Run--don't walk--to pick up this color!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Retro & Whimsical Decorating

My new apartment has me itching for some new furniture and some odds and ends. Here are some of my favorite pieces from Anthropologie.


5' Doily Rug ($298) - An unexpected shot of lace on the floor can really ground your space. Pretty but not distracting, and the dove gray color will match everything!


Cherie Dressing Table ($698) - Like something curated from a secret garden this vanity will deliver a much-needed dose of glamor into your bedroom or dressing area.


Calligraphy Bed ($2498) - This fanciful and dramatic Hollywood-esque bed would look lovely contrasted with bright walls.


Hushed Hours Bed ($2498) - A vintage clock face creates an aureole of a headboard that is both a little antique and a little art deco at the same time.


Coat of Arms Mirror ($198) - Affordable Venetian mirrors are so hard to find, this one is a great value for the price! Anchor this over a dresser or vanity and do your best Maleficent impression.


One-Lump-Or-Two Lamp ($198) - Everyday can be a tea party with this Alice-inspired lamp. Pair it with your own shade for a look that is uniquely yours.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Clinton Kelly's Must Haves Part 1: The basics

These basics in a well-defined color palette means that your wardrobe is infinitely mixable and matchable. Look for timeless cuts with tiny details so you can embrace your anachronistic style yet still possess basics with mileage.


1. Dark Wash Jeans: Get yourself a pair like from The Limited ($70), they lengthen the legs and make them look thinner. Choose a pair with a medium rise and skinny silhouette so you can tuck them into your boots in winter or flip the cuff a few times for '50's style capris!


2. A pencil skirt: So basic, so essential, but who actually owns one? This pencil skirt from White House | Black Market ($78) is perfectly stretchy and hugs all your curves so you can embrace your inner mid-century secretary. Wear this on the weekend with your ballet flats, a tee and pearls for Audrey Hepburn chic.


3. A Day Dress: You want this dress to be something you can dress up for work with accessories or throw on with your sandals for a quick weekend look. How cute is this one from The Limited ($90) with the little shoulder detail and baby blue color?


4. A Jacket/Blazer: Look for good seaming to create an hourglass figure. This one from Mod Cloth ($59) is a little goth, a little prep, and a little Victorian all at the same time. Love the shawl collar and shoulder details, wear this with the pencil skirt for work or pair it with the skinny jeans worn open for a casual shopping trip.


5. The Cardigan: Choose a basic color with not-so-basic details and a good weave suitable for your climate. The Limited's Bow Pocket cardigan ($50) comes in white and cream for cool- and warm-toned skin respectively. Imagine this with those skinny jeans and ballet flats!


6. A Colored Cocktail Dress: A lady should remember that it is better to be overdressed than underdressed so it is important to keep cocktail wear on hand for gallery-openings, anniversary dinners, evening weddings and more! The Madison Dress from Candy Violet ($165) comes in silver and gold brocade. The elbow sleeves and full skirt make a great 1950's statement!


7. Cotton blouse: Beyond basic, choose a pretty color and pretty details. A woman's blouse is all about making you feel pretty and should never be mistaken for a men's shirt on a woman's body. This one from Banana Republic ($50) promises quality construction and details that are just...well...pretty.


8. The LBD: This is the dress to end all dresses so spare no expense because you will wear it every week. This one from Kate Spade ($355) is perfect with the full skirt, sleeveless style, and waist-defining bow. So many ways to wear it but if you've fallen in love with the pink tights you can pick this up from WeLoveColors.com.


9. Walking Shorts: Summer happens so shorts are a necessary evil, the key here is to make them as lady-like and polished as possible. Choose a short that hits you right above the knee in a crisp, clean white that is easy to dress up or down. This pair from White House | Black Market ($60) will look great with a summer top and heels or a feminine tee and ballet flats.