Lost Muse

ELEVEN

2012-02-14T20:50:00.002-06:00

I was tagged by the lovely and inspiring Alexis at Dollyrockergirl for this post called The Game of Elevens. Here is what its all about...

Here are the rules:
1) You must re-post these rules
2) Round One: post eleven random things about yourself
3) Round Two: answer the questions the tagger posed to you in their post
4) Round Three: create eleven new questions for the people you tag to answer
5) Tag people and go to their blog and tell them that they've been tagged for the game

Round one

1. I'm from the South and while I used to hate living here, I have grown to love it and I will no doubt be homesick for the South once I leave it.

2. I am obsessed with all things England.

3. I LOVE making people laugh & acting silly

4. Half of me is low key and would love to live on farm-- tons of animals, lounging, open skies, playing guitar on the front porch, homemade meals while the other half craves the city life-- energy, crowds, studio apartments, no sleep, packed schedule, etc.

5. I was a paranormal child- I danced with the ghost of my great-grandmother! My skills have considerably decreased over the years though.

6. I'm a really honest person and honesty is one of the things I value most in a person/ relationship

7. I have snuck into the palace of Versailles

8. I am really independent and am not afraid of doing things alone! I went to a Bob Dylan concert by myself one time!

9. I am really detailed oriented and have a freakish memory that can either make me seem like a stalker or like a nut-job to some people.

10. I love collecting things but I could never be a hoarder- I actually enjoy cleaning and throwing away things too much.

11. I have opinions, but I love to talk for hours and hear other peoples opinions. I think that by discussing your opinions in an open and accepting environment is one of the best things for understanding and learning more about yourself.

Round two

1) If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and who makes it (be it your mother or your favorite little diner)? This is so hard because I am obsessed with so many different types of food! I hate to be annoying but I really can't decide. I will say that I am definitely more of a savory person than sweet person, give me cheese or vegetables over candy any day!

2) What is your favorite piece of clothing in your wardrobe? Favorite piece of jewelry?

I would say the things that mean the most are the things that have been passed down from my great-grandmother which include a beautiful kimono from the 1940s, a beaded evening bag and a cashmere and fur sweater. My favorite piece of jewelry is a ring I found in my favorite store in Venice, it is marcasite and has a orange stone in the middle and is from the Edwardian period. I like to pretend that there is a grand story behind it! It is something that I will have forever and I will never get tired of it.

3) What is your go-to karaoke song?

If I am feeling brave something Fleetwood Mac/Stevie, but I usually stick with Britney or the Spice Girls because they are crowd favorites and more likely to interest my friends.

4) What is your can't-live-without-it beauty product?

Tie between mascara and moisturizer!

5) Which foreign accent is your favorite?

English and I am very fond of Northern English accents in men.

6) What song is the soundtrack to your life?

Ah! Impossible question!! One day I will have an answer for this.

7) What's the last law that you've broken?

haha! I'm going to skip this one!!

8) What's the one piece of advice that you can't live without and where did you get it from?

To not let other people live your life/ decide your life for you. I got this from my parents and I also just think that it was born in me, I've always had a strong sense of independence.

9) What's your favorite word? Favorite curse word?

Perhaps and fuck

10) What are your thoughts on Ryan Gosling?

I think he is very attractive and probably a really cool guy but, I'm just not as obsessed as everyone else seems to be.

11) Which fellow blogger do you wish you were best friends with in real life?

I really want to be friends with most everyone that I keep in contact with on here/ have been following for a few years! I also would love to be friends with Louise Ebel from Miss Pandora, she is fascinating.

I really should be doing homework so I nominate anyone who reads my blog and would like to do this!!

1) Where do you dream of traveling? If you could live anywhere besides where you live now, where would it be?

2) What is your favorite go-to outfit?

3) Do you journal or do any form of writing?

4) What is your dream job?

5) When you are feeling down, what inspires you or cheers you up?

6) You are given the opportunity to raid someone's wardrobe, who do you choose?

7) If you could play someones life in a movie, who would it be?

8) What are your opinions about the current state of the music/film/ general entertainment business?

9) If you could change one thing about your body what would it be and why?

10) Why did you start blogging?

11) If you could bring back one person from the dead who would it be and why?

Lou

2012-01-12T14:55:00.000-06:00

Uniform

2011-12-28T22:30:00.009-06:00

This combination of items has almost become my uniform. Items needed- basic comfy white t-shirt, black skinny jeans, black leather jacket, classic black bag, chelsea boots, turquoise rings, kuchi/ berber coin necklace, oversized round sunglasses, dark red nail polish & Coco Mademoiselle.

Being a student I am always thinking of outfits that are my style yet practical for running around campus. I also like to wear this combination with a black blazer or tie my t-shirt in a knot in the middle. I'm often drawn to over the top clothes, but it is nice to have something simple to be able to throw on and go to class while still maintaining style and not having to worry if my skirt is going get caught on my backpack, if I'm going to trip or if I am going to snag an old lace dress. Been there done that!

Table Dance

2011-12-11T19:22:00.002-06:00

Watch the entire film here.

This Side of Paradise

2011-11-29T17:14:00.000-06:00

The night of the pre-holiday dance he slipped away and went early to bed for the pleasure of hearing the violin music cross the grass and come surging in at his window. Many nights he lay there dreaming awake of secret cafes in Mont Martre, where ivory women delved in romantic mysteries with diplomats and soldiers of fortune, while orchestras played Hungarian waltzes and the air was thick and exotic with intrigue and moonlight and adventure. In the spring he read “L’Allegro”, by request, and was inspired to lyrical outpourings on the subject of Arcady and the pipes of Pan. He moved his bed so that the sun would wake him at dawn that he might dress and go out to the archaic swing that hung from an apple-tree near the sixth-form house. Seating himself in this he would pump higher and higher until he got the effect of swinging into the wide air, into a fairy-land of piping satyrs and nymphs with the faces of fair-haired girls he passed in the streets of Eastchester.

-F. Scott Fitzgerald, This Side of Paradise

Recently...in photos

2011-11-27T14:16:00.003-06:00

Inside of the Tabernacle before the Raconteurs

Driving down country roads

Me and my friend David at a ball

Sunset

My Louis

Blogging has felt so odd to me as of late... I'm not really sure if it is my thing but every now and then I get the urge to post. I've had trouble finding time for outfit posts, not that I don't want to do them, they just have not been my priority. I still love reading blogs and the concept of having a blog although my recent apathy. Hopefully I'll get a burst of inspiration over winter break but exams are looming and these next few weeks are going to be filled with studying. I thought I would share some photos from my phone, because my phone seems to be the only camera I have with me anymore!

I do on the other hand post pictures/videos/ quotes all of the time on my tumblr if anyone is interested

Here is the link

thelostmuse

An Ode to Jack White

2011-11-14T20:45:00.006-06:00

Last night I had the privilege of seeing the Raconteurs. I was absolutely blown away, which was expected. Jack White is like no other musician I have ever seen(I've seen the Dead Weather as well). I am convinced the man is from another planet. As I sit here trying to think of words to describe the concert all I am left with is ringing ears and feeling like I was hit with a truck, the best way to feel after a concert. The show was no bullshit, no smoke and mirrors, just 5 guys giving it their all and playing damn good music. I have such respect for Jack and all that he has done in the music world, not only with his bands and the music he has created but, the things he has done with other artists such as Loretta Lynn, etc. I can only hope that he continues to make more music and I hope that he inspires other musicians out there so they know REAL music is not dead. I would also like to note I realize the importance of all of the other members in his bands and greatly appreciate their talent and hard work as well, I just have an affinity for Jack.

The Raconteurs- Carolina Drama

A clip from It Might Get Loud (one of my favorite scenes)

Free People Behind The Scenes

2011-11-09T17:32:00.002-06:00

Behind the scenes of the Free People Holiday 2011 catalog.

The Lost Generation: Free People in the 1920s

2011-11-07T21:47:00.008-06:00

Paris in the 1920's is always a time that has fascinated me. Thinking about being surrounded by writers, artists, bohemians is always something that has intrigued me. I love the writing of F. Scott Fitzgerald and thinking about going to parties dancing to Cole Porter. I also love Free People and getting their catalog in the mail is like Christmas morning. Each catalog is always uniquely different but still Free People. I just received the Holiday 2011 catalog today and I wanted to share some of my favorite photographs from the 1920s section. The catalog is Free People through the decades, the decades being the 1920s, 1950s, 1970s and present day. My favorite part was of course, the 1920s. I have been dreaming about these clothes, the way they are styled is so gorgeous, and the dreamy like effect on the photos adds to the whole aura. I am not the most technologically savvy person so my scans are not the best quality, but I think it adds to the dreamy/hazy atmosphere. I really should be studying but I much rather be doing something inspirational...

I have found some great behind the scenes photos from this shoot so I will do a follow up post!

10 Favorite Beauty Products

2011-11-04T17:57:00.004-05:00

1. Chanel Coco Mademoiselle- Probably the closest thing that I have to a signature scent even though I am always changing up my perfume, this remains constant.

2. Nars blush in Orgasm- my favorite blush ever.

3. L'Occitane lavender soap

4. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara

5. Bare Esentuals powder in fairly light. I wear this everyday.

6. Butter London nail polish in La Moss. The description is "vampy and full of red wine, just like its inspiration". This nail polish proves that I cannot resist anything that has to do with London, Kate Moss or red wine.

7. Korres Guava Body Butter. I LOVE this stuff, I keep a travel size in my purse and it smells great.

8. Bath & Body Works eucalyptus and spearmint candle. Smells so good.

9. Agadir Argan oil.

10. Korres lip butter in plum. A great everyday lip tint and moisturizer.

Keith.

2011-11-02T22:31:00.005-05:00

I was just browsing through the Topshop website and came across this dress that reminded me of the red jacket Keith wore during the Rolling Stones 1969 tour. I hope one day to find a jacket just like Keith's but, I think this dress comes pretty close!

Jane.

2011-11-01T14:03:00.001-05:00

Your Days Are Your Sonnets

2011-10-28T14:50:00.005-05:00

How creepy is that door to nowhere ? I had to put my bookshelf in front of it because I have no clue where it goes! As you can see by the pictures I dyed my hair and I'm thinking about maybe dyeing it a darker red color...not sure yet though.I am wearing a Silence + Noise dress and blazer, JC Lita's and a Lucky Brand hat. These past few weeks have been crazy for me! I was lucky enough to be able to work at a Christian Siriano runway show, showing his spring collection and meet him as well(his show came to my hometown for a benefit). The clothes were absolutely stunning in person and he was a very nice guy. I hope everyone has a good Halloween, I still do not know what I am going to be! Ideas are welcome!

Dolce Far Niente

2011-10-19T16:48:00.004-05:00

Dolce Far Niente by John William Godward

I am so inspired by the work of John William Godward. I find his paintings to be absolutely striking. I love the colors of this painting and the way that he captured all of the fabrics so well, it is almost as if you can feel them. I can imagine wearing this dress and dreaming all day.

School has taken over my life as of late and because of that I have been lagging on posts, but hopefully I'll be back to outfit posting soon! I also wanted to say hello to my new followers!

Vanessa Paradis

2011-10-14T17:02:00.003-05:00

Vanessa Paradis, in my opinion, is one of the most amazing women ever. I admire her so much from the way she dresses, her lifestyle, her voice, her personality, etc. she is one of my role models. I was recently looking up pictures of her for inspiration for a ball I am attending in late November and for a new hair color and I found this collage of some of my favorite looks of hers. I love how she can look timeless, modern, classic and have a hint of 1920s style all mixed together.

Went To See The Gypsy

2011-10-03T14:50:00.004-05:00

A really rushed outfit post, but it is better than nothing I guess! I have been such a slacker when it comes to doing outfit posts... maybe I will get back to posting them regularly.

I'm wearing a vintage burnout velvet duster, American Gold Lolita shorts(my new favorite), JC Lita's and Lucky Brand hat.

currently listening to Went To See The Gypsy by Bob Dylan.

Black Lace

2011-09-27T21:42:00.002-05:00

Gypsy

2011-09-26T15:09:00.001-05:00

Sometimes you just need to take the day off and listen to Fleetwood Mac, stare into the sunshine, write, dream, drink coffee...

Orange County Suite

2011-09-25T16:59:00.003-05:00

Favorite Looks: Temperley London Spring 2012

2011-09-21T22:03:00.002-05:00

Wish List

2011-09-14T20:17:00.005-05:00

I was inspired by Lucia over at whothefuckismickjagger to do a wish list of things that I am currently daydreaming about. All items can be found at Planet Blue, Spanish Moss and Topshop .

I really enjoyed doing this and I'm thinking about doing a part 2!

Currently...

2011-09-08T21:08:00.003-05:00

awaiting the arrival of these items from Spanish Moss/American Gold

all images from shopspanishmoss.com

I've been thinking about buying the 'It Girl" fringe dress for months now, and after many mornings wishing it was in my closet, I finally ordered it. I couldn't resist the suede pencil skit and the Lolita shorts either. I'm already dreaming up tons of new outfits and ways to wear these pieces.

The Soul of a Rose

2011-09-06T17:28:00.002-05:00

jwwaterhouse.com

Lucille

2011-09-04T11:19:00.001-05:00

You don't write because you want to say something, you write because have something to say

2011-08-28T14:23:00.007-05:00

outside of the house

Inside

One of Zelda's cigarette holders and a hair piece that she made

Paper dolls that Zelda made for her daughter Scottie.

Yesterday I took a road trip with some friends to visit the only surviving home that F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald lived in. The house is located in the beautiful historic neighborhood of Cloverdale in Montgomery, AL where there are trees draped with spanish moss, people sitting on their front porch and beautiful homes. Only a small portion of the house is open for the tour because the upstairs has been converted into apartments, which are currently being lived in. It was inspiring just walking around the front yard, imagining Scott and Zelda living there.

Jimi

2011-08-26T14:48:00.002-05:00

Measuring a summer's day, only find it slips away to grey

2011-08-22T16:28:00.004-05:00

American Gold top, H&M skirt, All Saints lace up boots

Stevie.

2011-08-21T10:38:00.001-05:00

"What was she like? She had a sore throat a lot and liked to melt into a corner, wrapped in a shawl, with a cup of tea, and write and draw. She was sweet and often very funny, great to be around. Did I fall for her right away? I don't know, but she immediately felt like a soulmate. There was a bond. I'm an old drama queen, and so is she. What I liked most about her is the feeling of being comfortable enough to be silly and stupid."

-Mick Fleetwood on Stevie Nicks from Fleetwood: My Life and Adventures in Fleetwood Mac

2011-08-20T15:03:00.003-05:00

The Chain

2011-08-16T13:22:00.007-05:00

Lucky brand hat, thrifted shirt, Topshop shorts, Gee'WaWa Fatale ankle boots

Welcome to my new home!

Currently listening to

Dancing Barefoot

2011-08-14T16:05:00.000-05:00

Johnny

2011-08-11T21:35:00.002-05:00

Maureen

2011-08-11T21:31:00.001-05:00

Dream.

2011-08-09T18:42:00.002-05:00

I've Been Down That Road Before

2011-08-04T21:59:00.007-05:00

One of my favorite places to go is to my family's home in the country. It is in a very small town where everybody knows each other. I love staying in the house my great-grandfather built where the inside is all wood and I get to sleep on quilts that my great-great-great aunt made. I spent last weekend there and had a chance to escape the internet and responsibility. I wandered around the house exploring the "secret" passageways that my brother and I thought were the coolest thing in the world when we were younger(they are still pretty cool). I used the rotary phone and admired all of the old photographs of my great-grandparents and grandfather scattered throughout the house. I remembered the time when I was young and danced with the ghost of my great-grandmother. We drove all around the surrounding country to see 10 ft. tall tomato plants and the remains of my great-great-grandparents house and their graves. We drove by decaying general stores and mill villages, making me envision dirt roads and carriages. I heard family stories that I had not heard before and baked my great-great-great aunts sugar cookies that are my favorite.

Perfection

2011-08-03T17:05:00.002-05:00

stone cold fox

Changes

2011-07-27T20:46:00.005-05:00

Images from tumblr, wildfox, originalseed, free people

Packing my life away & getting ready to move in a few days. Listening to the Almost Famous soundtrack. Looking forward to my new place, a 3 week break & my 22nd birthday.

Style Icon: Stevie Nicks Part 2

2011-07-24T10:33:00.003-05:00

The Pierces

2011-07-23T19:31:00.002-05:00

These girls are amazing, and they are from my hometown.

Style Icon: Stevie Nicks Part 1

2011-07-21T15:41:00.004-05:00

I think it is fairly obvious that I really admire Stevie Nicks. I don't just admire her for her style, but since I have focused a lot of my blog on style, I wanted to celebrate the wicked style of Stevie. She is such an inspiration and influence on me that I wanted to share. I think her style needs no other words, it speaks for itself.

Makeup Lessons from Stevie Nicks

2011-07-16T17:47:00.003-05:00

Scout Willis

2011-07-14T14:03:00.005-05:00

Scout Willis for StyleLikeU.com from StyleLikeU on Vimeo.

so inspiring.

all images and video from stylelikeu.com

With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?

2011-07-13T20:07:00.004-05:00

Current inspiration...more to come later...

most images from wildfox and free people

Keith

2011-07-09T16:50:00.000-05:00

Weekend in Paris 2

2011-07-07T19:03:00.004-05:00

On my mind

2011-07-04T15:07:00.005-05:00

Some of my favorites from American Gold FW11. I'm definitely ordering myself a pair of the Bandito Bells, been waiting for bells like that my whole life.

all images from shopspanishmoss.com

Weekend in Paris 1

2011-07-03T20:14:00.004-05:00

Just Kids

2011-07-01T21:30:00.002-05:00

Currently reading Just Kids by Patti Smith

London Summer Part 2

2011-06-28T22:06:00.004-05:00

Some more pictures from London...

London Summer Part 1

2011-06-27T16:29:00.004-05:00

The past 6 weeks have been some of the best in my life. I was not expecting to do the amount of things I actually did or be as busy as I was but I would not take anything back. A lot of things have changed for me personally and for the better I can say. I am more inspired and open and I have more drive to reach my goals than ever before. I've made new best friends, something that I wasn't so sure would happen. I had short romances with random boys in pubs who used pick up lines from Agatha Christie novels, drank a ton of coffee, barely slept, ran through the streets of London barefoot, laughed till I cried...

It is sad to be back home, especially since I have just started second term summer school and I have only been back for two days. I am not going to be negative about being here though, I've already cried enough. I have a huge stack of books I bought in London calling my name as well. My time in London was incredible and has inspired me to do more with my life, I have seen what all is possible. I know that things will only get better from here. I saw my favorite painting, The Lady of Shalott, saw wonderful exhibits such as the Cult of Beauty at the V&A, listened to Gershwin at the Royal Albert Hall, saw Bob Dylan in Finsbury Park, had a run in with royalty at Topshop, midnight dance parties, markets, etc. It is just too much to list now but it feels good to be back blogging and writing again. I can honestly say that I have no regrets. I hope everyone else is having an inspiring summer ! I will put up more pictures in the coming days.

All Around the World

2011-06-09T08:13:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful time in Paris and I am still having the absolute best time in London. Once I get back home to the States and life slows down I will be in blog mode again but for now just a simple outfit post.

I'm wearing a leather jacket from the markets in Florence, vintage jewelry, Topshop shirt and skirt and Marc Fisher boots.

London

2011-05-21T19:31:00.003-05:00

Just a quick outfit post to let you know that I am still alive. My camera battery seems to be broken so I cannot upload any of my pictures but I stole this one from a friend. As soon as I have some free time I hope to get back to regular blogging but for the next couple of weeks I'm going to be spending as much time off the computer enjoying England (and Paris) as I can. :)

I'm wearing a Lucky Brand hat, 80s Purple sunglasses, Topshop shirt & Forever 21 lace maxi skirt.

I don't care what you say

2011-05-13T23:41:00.003-05:00

Life has once gotten in the way of blogging. I'm leaving for London tomorrow night, there are no words to describe how excited I am to get there.

These are some inspiring pictures that I've recently found that I thought I would share. I hope they can inspire someone else.

Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray

2011-05-06T23:16:00.004-05:00

The semester is over for now. I'll soon be back at school but in a new city and a new country. Drinking bloody marys at night. Packing my life in a suitcase. Listening to Patsy Cline on a May night in the South. Fresh starts. New surroundings. Things seem to be getting better.

I saw you and I thought that you saw me

2011-05-04T21:36:00.004-05:00

Something is off today.

Night Time Is the Right Time

2011-04-29T17:40:00.004-05:00

I liked the night. Things grow at night. My imagination is available to me at night. All my preconceptions of things go away. Sometimes you could be looking for heaven in the wrong place. Sometimes it could be under your feet. Or in your bed. -Bob Dylan, Chronicles Volume 1

Where broken dreams and memories meet

2011-04-27T13:46:00.004-05:00

My hat is Lucky Brand, shirt is thrifted, vintage mini skirt, Chinese Laundry knee high boots.

These photos were taken a few days back when it was not so hot outside, now it feels like summer. I probably won't be wearing this outfit again anytime soon. The skirt is one of my most favorite things that I own, for summer all I need to do it wear it with a lighter colored shirt and some wedges.

Sorry for the slow down in posts, I've been so busy with school projects, but today was my last day. Next week are finals and then I have a week off and then London!

Velvet

2011-04-22T18:48:00.005-05:00

My hat is Forever 21, lace nightie thing is from a flea market, velvet skirt is Forever 21, ankle boots are Mia, horseshoe necklace is Fables by Marti Heil.

Versatile Blogger / Creative Blogger Awards

2011-04-20T14:52:00.004-05:00

I was recently nominated for the Versatile blogger award (thanks Tonya!) & for the Creative blogger award (thanks Jess!). The Versatile blogger says to list 7 things about yourself and the Creative blogger says to list 10 things about yourself, so I'm going to compromise and list 10.

1. I love cooking. One day I want to have a fully stocked kitchen with all of the appliances/utensils/spices one would need.

2. I'm a single mother of one 6 pound ball of fluff. He is a pomeranian named King Louis XIV. I usually just call him Louis.

3. I love traveling anywhere and everywhere.

4. I feel lucky to have seen many of my favorite musical artists including: Jeff Buckley, Bob Dylan & Robert Plant, to name a few.

5. My grandfather turned down Debbie Reynolds.

6. I love genealogy, autobiographies, history, hearing stories...

7. Antique dealing/collecting/loving runs in my family so it is no surprise I love it as well. I can spend hours antiquing. I love the story behind things, the quality, the craftsmanship.

8. I would love to be a perfumer.

9. I love dancing and I am still mad at myself for quitting ballet, pointe, and tap.

10. I love making people laugh and people who make me laugh.

I nominate anyone who would like to do this!

Highway 61

2011-04-19T11:26:00.004-05:00

Free people hat & vintage dress.

I love wearing this dress but sometimes it can be very unflattering! It is also a wrap dress so I have to be careful when I sit or when the wind blows.

Dreams

2011-04-16T18:52:00.004-05:00

My hat is Forever 21, shirt is from NastyGal, lace bells are With Hearts in My Eyes from Bona Drag, velvet jacket is vintage, shoes are Pierre Hardy for Gap.

I've had these lace bell bottoms for almost 3 years and they are still one of my most favorite pair of pants I have ever owned. They remind me of Sapphire from Almost Famous.

Send Me Your Pillow

2011-04-14T14:43:00.005-05:00

Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others is one of those songs that transports me, a song that I am addicted to, that I can listen to on repeat and never get sick of. I can't think of anyone who plays guitar like Johnny Marr. I think that the guitar is a voice and that all truly great guitarists use their guitar as a voice and you can hear it. Some say the lyrics are silly & that Morrissey ruined this beautiful song. I don't think that it is ruined, although my favorite part of the song is the last bit once the vocals are over.

Simple

2011-04-12T16:10:00.003-05:00

I'm wearing a Lucky Brand hat, Olive Olivia dress, Valea wedges and a scarf from World Market

Only Want To Love

2011-04-11T20:02:00.003-05:00

Waking up early and enjoying the quiet and stillness. Apricot jam. Old movies and tea. Antique hunting on a peaceful Saturday. Fresh picked strawberries. Fred Astaire & Ginger Roger's movies. Old books. A refreshing cold shower. The anticipation of packages arriving in the mail. Remembering special moments. Lavender incense.

What is and What Should Never Be

2011-04-08T21:29:00.005-05:00

My dress is vintage from Feather's in Austin, all jewelry is vintage or antique, boots are Marc Fisher

All of my outfits seem to be looking very similar lately, I guess I am stuck in a rut of turquoise and black. For one reason or another I've been short on time for blogging and I apologize. I'm spending the night drinking tea, eating strawberries and doing creative things that I have not been able to do in what feels like ages.

Been listening to this, craving the open road, Almost Famous, the smell of an arena during a concert, dancing all night, endless conversations, sunset

Current Inspiration

2011-04-05T13:55:00.004-05:00

I've been spending the past few days reading Walt Whitman in the sunshine, writing by candle light, eating wonderful homemade meals, drinking wine, and enjoying this wonderful spring weather. I have also been busy with school, but that is of no interest. Last night was a fantastic storm with non-stop lightning that lit up the whole sky and more rain than I have seen in a long time. It left me without power but that was fun, only being able to see by candle light.

I wanted to say hello to the new followers & also a thanks for all of the comments, they really make my day. :)

I'm about to head to my university's art museum to get some inspiration.

Here Comes The Sun

2011-04-02T09:36:00.004-05:00

Top hat is from the markets of Florence, scarf is vintage, jewelry is vintage, velvet burnout jacket is vintage, dress is from H&M, boots are Chinese Laundry.

It seems as if every piece of beautiful land here is privately owned, but there are a few gems left that do not have NO TRESPASSING signs posted everywhere you look. I found this field while driving down long country roads listening to Exile on Main St. yesterday. It was kind of hidden away but I noticed the bright green peeking out from behind all of the trees. I just love wearing this top hat if you haven't noticed! This velvet burnout jacket is one of my favorite things I own that I found in a vintage shop in my hometown when I was in High School.

Do you ever feel like you are somewhere physically but in spirit and in your mind you are somewhere else? I usually feel pretty out of touch with my surroundings here at college but these past few weeks have been especially hard. It sometimes starts to wear me out physically, and I feel like I am just drifting by. I feel like I have closed the chapter to a part of my life before it has been closed itself, if that makes any sense. I'm just ready for some change & a decent conversation.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond

2011-03-28T17:49:00.007-05:00

I've always had this obsession/fascination with top hats and I finally got myself one from a street vendor in Florence. The scarf on the hat is vintage. All of my jewelry is vintage, mostly from India(but purchased here in the States and in Venice) and my dress is from American Apparel. I'm obsessed with this vintage velvet jacket that I got in Arizona, it was love at first sight. The satin lining of the jacket is tearing apart, which most people would fix but I like the way that it looks. I will not be able to wear it for a while since it is getting hotter so I wanted to bring it out for one last time.

I think it is obvious from this post that I really want to be Stevie Nicks.

Can't stop listening to Pink Floyd, this song especially.

I Just Wanna Be Back Where I Belong

2011-03-27T17:12:00.008-05:00

I apologize for the lack of outfit posts as of late. There has been no lack of inspiration, just a lack of time to do them. The past few days I have been keeping my sanity by listening(and adding) to my vinyl collection. Listening to my favorite music on vinyl is something so simple but so special to me. Music sounds so much better on vinyl. Every day I wonder why I am a part of this generation, a generation that I really have no connection to anymore. I know it is not a phase and I am not referring to wanting to just live in the 60s and 70s. I crave a time before social-working, where people knew how to do things, when people read real books instead of electronic books, before auto-tune, when people used maps instead of GPS, when people talked on the phone, when there was excitement about actually buying a record, etc. I think I am going to go watch Almost Famous and day-dream about traveling around the country in a tour bus and try to forget about what the world is becoming.

title from World Turning by Fleetwood Mac

Making the shape of his questions to Heaven.

2011-03-25T17:53:00.003-05:00

This song has been in my head all week. It sounds like a song made by ancient aliens to me.

Firenze

2011-03-22T15:05:00.009-05:00

Traveling is good for my soul. I like to be put in a completely different place than what I am used to, strange for someone who can be such a homebody. Every time I go to Europe I remember why I love it so much. To be able to walk outside your door and see all of this history around you is something that I wish I could do where I live. I love the way that Italians spend hours at dinner, talking over endless bottles of wine, not worried about anything else, just in the moment. I miss the food, the wine, the warmth of the people. I noticed that I have a problem with not taking enough pictures when I am actually doing something, I tend to get wrapped up in the moment which is good, but I also wish I had some of the special memories in pictures.

Running down the streets of Florence holding hands(imagine the Louvre scene in The Dreamers) is something that I will remember forever. Drinking too much wine and wandering around the medieval buildings and cobble stone streets, thinking of all of the different people who have also walked the same streets. Wandering around the streets of Venice and stumbling upon my favorite antique jewelry store that I thought would be impossible to find, but that was closed. Beautiful Italian men. Seeing some of my most favorite art in person is almost unreal. Simple pleasures. Train rides. Sitting on a tiny porch of a bar right in front of The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Meeting Florentine's and communicating via minimal English and minimal Italian, but that didn't matter. People singing and dancing in the street.

I'm going to enjoy the small things, take my time, appreciate craftsmanship, don't take the easy way out, cook better meals, shop at the markets, take walks...etc.

Back Home

2011-03-21T09:46:00.002-05:00

My photo.

I've made it back to America with a little confusion, lots of inspiration and a new outlook on some things. I haven't had time to stop and gather my thoughts since I have returned and I've been immediately thrown back into school. I'm hoping to have some time tomorrow to relax and collect my thoughts, so until then...xx

Florence

2011-03-10T15:46:00.005-06:00

Sorry for the lack of posting, life has been a rollercoaster this week. Seriously high high's and very low low's, but now all is sorted out and I can focus on the coming week, spring break, when I will be in Florence, Italy(with a possible day trip to one of my favorite places, Venice). I'm leaving Saturday for 8 days and I'm going to return with lots of pictures and stories.

I want to leave you with this incredibly beautiful and inspiring Kate Moss for Longchamp video (thanks, Nina!)

I could literally watch this on repeat !

Lazy Sunday

2011-03-06T21:59:00.002-06:00

via ilovewildfox.com

Let it Bleed

2011-03-03T15:41:00.006-06:00

I'm wearing a Lucky Brand hat with a random feather found in my room, Olive Olivia fringe dress/shirt, American Gold Let it Bleed Bells, Jeffrey Campbell shoes and all vintage jewelry.

If you drive a few miles in any direction here you can stumble upon miles and miles of farm land and deserted buildings. I found this little place on the side of the road, it clearly looks like some people have used it as a place to party (there were beer cans and pizza boxes everywhere). I found it a little creepy, but I like creepy. I also saw a plantation home up in flames with horses roaming in front, it looked just like a scene from Gone With the Wind. I didn't want to be rude and take a picture though. I have no idea why my text is underlined, I can't seem to get it off and I don't want to have to re-upload all of my pictures!

I think I would wear this outfit everyday if I could. All of the items seem to fit so well together. I literally had dreams about these pants before I got them, I'm obsessed!

Heart Of Stone

2011-03-01T14:26:00.010-06:00

Lucky Brand hat, Olive Olivia top, Topshop maxi skirt, Madden Girl wedges, dragon orb necklace is Fables by Marti Heil, all other jewelry is vintage.

About to go enjoy some free time by reading The Dharma Bums & drinking earl grey.

On the road again

2011-02-26T23:24:00.003-06:00

A few roadtrip essentials. Litas, moleskine, blackberry, favorite leather jacket, ipod, lennon shades, peach tea, rosebud salve, vial of Tunisian jasmine oil, Rimbaud's complete works, The Dharma Bums by Jack Kerouac.

I love being on the open road, or being in any moving object really. The hum of the tires, the sounds of passing cars, the way the sun shines on the windshield, looking at the stars while driving 70+, etc. There is something inspiring about being in a moving vehicle.

Field Day

2011-02-25T16:49:00.008-06:00

I'm wearing a Free People slip dress & hat, vintage jewelry & Lennon shades from Nasty Gal.

I feel so lucky to live in such a beautiful place, surrounded by fields, farms and lots of horses. I'm going on a mini road trip tomorrow and I'm hoping to stop at some roadside flea markets and antique malls and maybe pick up some unique things. I usually go to these fields to read but I think they are going to become where I take most of my outfit picture posts!

The Awakening

2011-02-19T17:15:00.005-06:00

I am wearing a vintage kimono that my great-grandmother got in Japan during the 1940s. This kimono has to be the most beautiful thing that I own, I feel so lucky to have it. It also makes me wish that I could have known my great-grandmother because she sounds like a fascinating woman. As you can see I'm quite obsessed with my vintage velvet love seat, so sorry for the overload, it just makes for nice pictures(in my opinion). I'm going to try and get more creative with my environment.

This weekend has been fantastic. Last night was spent on the front porch, talking endlessly, meeting neighbors and relaxing. I cannot believe the weather here, it has been getting up into the 70s and sunny. During the day I've been on the porch reading The Awakening, drinking cherry lime-ades and earl grey, wishing I was in New Orleans.

Not only have I been inspired by the book The Awakening, for this post I was also inspired by "The Awakening" kimono by American Gold. Check it out here.

The ghost who walks

2011-02-17T11:31:00.007-06:00

Vintage Victorian inspired top, vintage Levi cut-off shorts, Lucky Brand hat, Lennon shades are vintage from Nasty Gal, shoes Jeffrey Campbell, Jewelry is vintage.

Close Up: Marianne Faithfull

2011-02-16T16:20:00.003-06:00

I'm sure a lot of you have already seen this documentary, Close Up: Marianne Faithfull, but for some strange reason I had not seen it until last night. Here I was thinking that I had seen all things Marianne, but no, I have not. I loved every minute of this almost hour long documentary. It has sort-of recent interviews(made in 1999) with Marianne, Anita, Keith, David Dalton, Pamela Mayall, etc & also interview clips of Marianne from the '60s & '70s. I highly recommend watching all 5 parts!

Why you wanna make me blue

2011-02-15T15:07:00.005-06:00

I had the day off so I decided to eat breakfast in bed, listen to the Temptations on vinyl (my latest obsession), and play dress up in this great H&M dress that has just been hanging out in my closet. My hat is Free People, shoes are Jeffrey Campbell, all jewelry is vintage except for my necklace which is a piece of raw amethyst and the "dragon orb" from Fables by Marti Heil.

A picture is a poem without words

2011-02-14T18:09:00.008-06:00

One of my other life obsessions is art. When I was a child I would stare at various paintings and visualize myself in them. I would dance and lounge around with the ladies of Toulouse de Lautrec's paintings, relax on a Sunday afternoon on the l'Île de la Grande Jatte and I was convinced that I was the girl in an empire waist dress holding a bucket bag in a random painting on the wall at my grandmother's house. That was part of the magic of being a child, I really thought that I could get inside the paintings. I would crawl in, exploring the whole scene, see things that the adults didn't know were even there!

One of my favorite artists is John William Waterhouse. I wanted to share some of my favorite of his works. I sometimes wish that I could look like I stepped out of a Waterhouse painting and I often look to them for style inspiration. I love all things Pre-Raphaelite and I love literature, Waterhouse combines the two. Most of his subjects come from classical literature such as The Lady of Shalott(Tennyson) and Ophelia(Shakespeare).

La Fileuse

Consulting the Oracle

Saint Cecilia

Ophelia

The Lady of Shalott

Undine

I am half-sick of shadows- said the Lady of Shalott

Magic Circle

The Crystal Ball

Circe Offering the Cup to Odysseus

The Lady of Shalott Looking at Lancelot

Ophelia

Circe Invidiosa

Favorite Things: White Maxi Dresses

2011-02-13T12:07:00.007-06:00

The painting that started it all. The Lady of Shalott by John William Waterhouse.

I know this isn't a maxi dress but it was too pretty not to include

I have an obsession with white maxi dresses and if they are made with crochet or lace, I can't help but be drawn in. Victorian wedding dresses, '60s and '70s bohemian garb, '40s gowns, I love them all. I dream about finding treasures like the perfect white maxi dress and I am always a little heartbroken when I wake up to find that my purchase was not real. I am on the hunt to find the perfect dress. It has to fit perfectly, be the right color, have the right amount of lace or crochet, and look like it has a story to tell.

images come from sistersoftheblackmoon, everythingstyle.com, misspandora.fr, polyvore.com, ebay & netaporter.com

Style Icon: Auntie Mame

2011-02-12T14:49:00.006-06:00

Mame Dennis aka Auntie Mame from the film Auntie Mame.

all images are my screencaps.

Favorite things: Edie's empty pool turned bedroom

2011-02-07T21:08:00.003-06:00

I'm obsessed with Edie's, or should I say, Susan Superstar's empty pool turned super-chic bedroom. I love the bed on the ground, the art everywhere you look and my favorite part, the tent like ceiling, which fulfills all of my childhood fantasies. I used to be an expert tent maker, my bedroom or playroom suddenly would turn into a magical cave, filled with whatever I wanted. I've recently considered turning my bedroom now into a giant tent and I am definitely drawing on Ciao! Manhattan as inspiration.

image source