Monday, August 29, 2011

Finally! Welcome to Dallas H&M.

Well hello H&M.  We are happy to finally have you here in the lovely city of Dallas. It's been way to long but we are glad you're here.  While I haven't come to say a proper hello to you I promise I am going to soon... possibly tomorrow? I have taken a sneak peak at the website and have picked out a few must haves for my Fall wardrobe.


Anyone who knows me knows that I am blazer obsessed. It's possible I own about 25 of them.  I don't however own a solid navy one. Not to mention the fact that I want my hair to look like the above picture.


Plus I completely am in love with elbow patches so this little lady is PERFECT!!!! She is $39.95 which makes her even more amaaaazing.


I love this little guy for being SO incredibly lady like.  I want to wear her with a tie blouse and great tailored pants.   Only $49.95.


I mean... I think by now I don't have to say anything about this one.... perfectly preppy. $59.95.


AMAZING!! I need to see her in person so I can touch it.  It's obvi faux fur... the big kicker here will be what it feels like.  This would be perfect for my annual dress up as Rachel Zoe for Halloween! {yes... only girls know who I am... but it doesn't make it any less fun for me}

I can't get enough of rings either.  A simple cocktail ring is the best.


Stripes are always a good thing to get behind, especially in a jersey top with a little sheen that is only $12.95.  Perfect for under every one of those blazers up there!


I want a sweater like this to pair with a flowy maxi skirt and flats. The perfect fall look at such a wonderful price.

See you tomorrow H&M.... I have a feeling we will have a beautiful friendship strike up. I hope you are as good to me as I plan on being to you.

xoxo,
Molly


Sunday, August 28, 2011

Sparkle Moment

I'm having a sparkle moment right now. Isn't this dress amazing? I want to wear it everyday of my life but it would be perfect for a fancy Christmas party. {yep I went straight from Fall to Christmas}. Or better yet... maybe for my birthday rendezvous in New York! Sigh.... gorg.


xoxo,
Molly

Thursday, August 25, 2011

The September Issues :: Part 1

It's my favorite fashion time of year {tied with the Fall runway shows...} it's that time again when the SEPTEMBER ISSUES come out!! For those of you who don't know, this means magazines are HUGE, Vogue usually being around 800 pages for this month, it's the big Fall fashion issues {as Southern Boy learned this even means GQ! It's Christmas for Magazines}.  It's the time of year when I use a book mark for my magazines and have to set my books aside so I can read every glossy page in all of them.  Oh and I should tell you... I am obsessive about magazines.  You may have noticed in the About Me that I hoard them and stack them in book cases. {This only includes the fashion mags... Vogue, Bazaar, InStyle, Elle, Lucky, W, and Marie Claire}.  I don't plan on ever throwing them away and if anyone ever helps me move they usually get annoyed they have to lug these magazines around... whatever I don't care... they are NOT to be thrown away.  I am NOT, I repeat, NOT a hoarder in any sense of the word... Magazines are the only weird thing I can't throw away.

Anywho! Lets get back to the task at hand.  Friends, I am going to chronicle out for you the highlights of each September Issue.  What each mag thinks are the Must Have items, Must Follow Trends, and things to leave behind.  I am going to do this is a series of 3 posts. Two issues a post of the following magazines...





First up!! Here we go... get your shopping lists out ladies... it's going to be GREAT Fall season!

Bazaar

Tortoise Shell accessories such as heels, necklaces, and clutches made an appearance in Nicholas Kirkwood, Dries Van Noten, and Louboutin's collections for fall.  Lanvin got in on the action with a "camera" style bag, and Michael Kors showed Tortoise jewelry.  This is a great add on to a basic outfit to give it a little extra textured look.

Lisa Armstrong of the Daily Telegraph in the U.K. contributed by saying some of the 10 things you MUST buy this season are a statement coat {bright yellow, crisp green, magenta, cobalt}, printed day dresses {take a cue from Marni or Rodarte}, menswear influenced pieces {tailored blazers, well cut trousers, perfectly tailor button down, JCrew always does these well}, and an updated LBD {sequins, or the fuller form, cut out shoulder version Fendi showed}.  She goes on to say that her shopping list "must have" for any woman includes "at least one midi skirt, a number of blouses, skinny knits-that's the '70's covered-one pencil skirt, two or three patterned pieces, flat boots, a pair of block-heeled pumps, and an overcoat or a cocoon-shaped topper in a strong statement color."

One trend that is in every magazine under the sun right now is polka-dots! Yep... polka-dots.  They show up in dresses {Lanvin}, blouses {Stella McCartney}, bags {Chanel}, and everything else you can think of! An easy way to jump on this trend is by adding a scarf to your outfit.  If you want to go a little bolder go with one of the sheer tops so many labels will be showing, or an all over dress.

Elle

No more bandage dresses ala Housewife of Where ever or Kardashian sister.  Dressing is finally universally about the woman and not dressing for the man {HALLELUJAH!}.  It's the new New Look which originated around 1947, postwar.  Dior {basically unknown at the time} came out with corseted tops paired with decadently full skirts topped with padded hips.  Despite protests over skirts made with nearly 27 yards of fabric at a time when war rationing was not yet a distant memory, it was soon an adopted style of the rich and fashionable Europeans.  In the U.S. it was quickly the favorite of fashion editors and was duplicated for the masses {less fabrication used of course...}.  The point being this trend is taking over for Fall.  Boxy cape's, flouncy skirts, longer lengths, and almost nothing being overtly "sexy" {there's that gag word again...}.  This is the main theme of the whole issue {read the article page 228 Some Like it Haute by Nick Axelrod.}.

So let's break this down into the Elle inspired shopping list.  Well of course you need a polka dot blouse... STAT. Or the Marc Jacobs clutch or headband also featured in the {OF COURSE} section about spots. The most popular item {EVERYWHERE} being the Stella McCartney lazer cut out dress below. If you can rock/own that dress you will rock/own the whole season.  Hopefully when the brand new Stella McCartney store opens in Highland Park Village I can get my hands on it {and by get my hands on it I mean try it on.... stare at myself for 30 minutes... not eat for a day... dream about it.... and then forget about it}. Oh by the way... only a dress of this sort can be against the "man-repeller" theme of the season. Another repeat offender is tortoise, same as above, any accessory you can find it in.


Next is lace... seen in shoes {Dior}, dresses {Bottega Veneta, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, etc etc}, and even in jewelry with a lace form.  The easier way to do this trend is a lace top paired over a cami, maybe even in a bright color.  Or a lace skirt paired with black tights and a simple silk top and blazer for work.  They also boast lot's of really graphic prints {hounds tooth, floral, animal, graphic colors} and baroque for a renaissance feel such as a metal necklace by Proenza Schouler or a woven silver clutch such as the one by Bottega Veneta. They show animal in tops {such as Equipments}, dresses {Calvin Klein and Club Monaco both make affordable ones}, and faux fur jackets {Banana Republic and Michael by Michael Kors}.

Pick up an issue of Elle to find lot's of options for shopping, for every price range.  For example, the best heels have sparkle {example, the Miu Miu's shown earlier}, are a Loafer heel {where have you seen those before?}, also kitten heels, and color blocking.

I could go on and on and on with both of these issues, but I will stop there. Stay tuned for the rest of the fall issues.  Also, stay tuned for a few "How to Wear it" posts.  I will find the best {affordable} pieces for each major trend of the season, for any age {your welcome Mom!!}.

Have a wonderful rest of your Thursday my wonderful fashion followers!!

xoxo,
Molly

P.S. Don't forget to vote for me on Most Valuable Blogger! Link on the top right side of page!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Bag Obsession...

I am completely obsessing over my dream Chanel bag lately after trying it on my arm {bad idea... I can't sleep or eat without thinking about how much better all of that would be with it...}. I have tried to find something comparable.  Instead... I found this gorgeous beauty.


I couldn't even decide which hypothetical color I wanted.  So why not all three! This pretty little lady is by Lanvin and is actually called the Happy Shoulder Bag... I mean stop! You can't just name a bag the Happy Shoulder Bag and not want people to be happier then anything with it! It's so perfect with the cute little bow and the bamboo turn lock. The issue is this doesn't really help the Chanel bag lust... although it knocks a couple grand off it's still not in the right ball park... {sigh}.



Looks like I will need to do find a completely different bag to cover my lust for now....

xoxo,
Molly

Friday, August 19, 2011

Cheap Little Bottle of Heaven

So I ventured to Target today for detergent so I could finally do some laundry.  While there I decided to peruse through the make-up section.  I came upon the section with E.L.F. {if you're not familiar it's a somehow super cheap make-up line.} I have bought E.L.F. products before, never been blown away but at least felt like I got my $1 worth {which is the price of almost everything... now it's either $1, $3, or $5}.  I needed a new foundation brush but I found this Brush Shampoo.  I have used the Clinique spray brush cleaner before but didn't think it did a stellar job so I was sceptical.  I brought it home with me being only $3 and I had to share it with you... it was a MIRACLE WORKER.  It worked much better than the $15 spray from Clinique.  I was in shock over my sink and ended up cleaning all my brushes instead of just the one!! I highly recommend everyone has this little bottle of cheap heaven in their bathroom cabinet!



Thursday, August 18, 2011

Website Obsession... Society Social

So I have seen a couple of people post about this new site Society Social so I finally clicked through... OMG!  I am offically in love. She makes a impecciable hostess gown, bar tables, chairs, tables, sofas, everything you need to build your perfect party! 



I have to own one of these caftans.  Once I own a party worthy house this is exactly what I am going to be wearing when I host.



Look at this table!! It's perfect for a small apartment or a breakfast nook like they use! I love the way it looks, and it comes in tons of great bright colors perfect for anyone!






The couch comes in like 20 different combo's! Isn't it great website for decorating or throwing a great party! {FYI - I am working on a big September Issue post so until then posts will be less writing... more pictures... right to the point... but no less meaninful :) }

xoxo,
Molly

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Fall Inspiration ... Rachel Zoe Collection

Ever since the Fall 2011 RTW Runway's I have been lusting over Rachel Zoe's collection.  The first time I looked at it I expected it to be fine... maybe a little too dramatic and probably not very wearable. Ohhhhh was I wrong!! I feel in love and have been clicking through the pictures waiting to copy every outfit she made.  I'm in love with it! Here are some of my favorites... even if you won't ever own one of the pieces it's easy to get fall inspiration from the genius herself...




The wide leg trousers, tie blouses, 70's smoking blazers, winter white, and even the shoes and bags are right on trend. It's easy to see Zoe in all of these looks as well.  She admitted for her first collection she stayed right in her comfort zone... which for me was fine because I'm in LOVE.  She recently debuted her second collection for Resort 2012 which has way more color, beautiful caftans, and even simple print sundresses.  My favorites from that below...





I am obsessively obsessed with the teal gown.  I wish I had a place to wear it.  I love the gorgeous chiffon gowns, the fun prints, and especially the great transition places!  I am officially a fan Rachel Zoe {well I already was... I am Rachel Zoe for Halloween every year... hey don't judge, boys might not know who I am but it's easy and fun for me.} but I am a Rachel Zoe Collection fan!

xoxo,
Molly

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

WOOHOO!!

My super sweet friend Ashley nominated me {without my knowing!} for the CBS Local {DFW} Most Valuable Blog Award! I somehow became a finalist so I added the little gadget right there on the right side of the page for you to click and vote for me!!!!! You can vote once a day and voting ends September 9th. Thanks again Ashley! I am SO excited!!!

{P.S. I do get this picture does not go along with the post... but I found it while looking for one... and couldn't find one that made sense. And isn't this the cutest picture????! So whatever...}

Update: Current/Elliot for Kate Spade!

So if you remember I posted about Emily Current and Merrit Elliot designing the "Westward" Collection for Kate Spade here.  This is mostly groundbreaking because Kate Spade has NEVER done a collaboration before.... also groundbreaking because the 2 companies are SO different from each other.  Here's an update to the FABULOUS bags they came up with.






Aren't they amazing?! I can't handle the sequin duffle bag... I have to own that!! {although it runs a steep $1,295 ... so I won't...}.  It's made with Italian tan vegetable leather and burnished metallic sequins. Gorgeous!! The lining is black and white stripe which makes it oh so Kate Spade. Aren't they all pretty great though? I am still mystified that these 2 completely different brands came together and did a great collection that personifies them both! Now lets see if it sells or if I can own one of these at 75% off....

You can get all these bags at Kate Spade.  they run from $545 for the clutch to $1,295 for the duffle like I said... not cheap but if you can afford it they look like they might be worth it!

xoxo,
Molly 

Monday, August 15, 2011

Fall Must Have.... Statement Necklaces

Sorry for the delay in posts lately... I've been a busy lady and this weekend was Southern Boy's birthday! {Happy Birthday to yooouuu one last time!} I am back and promise to stop neglecting you fabulous people!  As is maybe obvious, I love jewelry, however I'm not a big earring person... not sure why.  But I LOVE LOVE lovelovelovelove big statement necklaces!  They are my favorite way to jazz {yep, I said jazz} up ANY outfit.  Here are some of my favorites I am drooling over....


Top Left: Robert Rodriguez Multi Strand Coin Necklace $285
Top Right: Theodora & Callum Cleopatra Necklace $365
Bottom Right: Nest Clustered Howlite Necklace $350

 Above are all from Neiman Marcus Direct.  Gold is the best, easiest way to incorporate a big necklace like this into your wardrobe.  I have lots of strands of gold chains I wear together, sometimes I add my favorite vintage owl necklace into the gold chain mix to add a little extra!


Top Left: Kate Spade Spotlight Bib $248 $124 Top Middle: Kate Spade Gold Rush Collar $248
Top Right: Kate Spade Cut to the Chase Bib $148.
Bottom Left: Hazel Symth Labrodorite Long Deco Diamond and Stone $320 Bottom Middle & Right:  Deco Bubbles on Chain $330
These are my drool worthy necklaces for Fall. Perfect with tailored wide leg trousers, silk top, and blazer.  Or a perfectly cut striped shift dress.

Hope everyone had as wonderful weekend a weekend as I did!

xoxo,
Molly

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Obsession... Miu Miu Glitter Bootie

As Rachel Zoe would say... "I die" over these booties.  I have seriously been having dreams about them and what outfits I would put with them.  They are my recent obsession of life!  I want the pink and silver ones but I would probably take any of them if someone wanted to pass them over.... anyone? I would wear them all the time... even if it was inappropriate to wear them {although.. I can't imagine what situation that would be?}.  Don't you LOVE?!





xoxo,
Molly

Saturday, August 6, 2011

:: Love ::


 Being home and rummaging through old family pictures! These 2 are some of my favorites! I mean.... my mom dressed us impeccably in matching nautical sailor outfits....  I don't think my mom and I have anything in common... ;)

Going on an early morning run in 77degree weather. {I have a feeling this will not happen in Dallas for quite some time...}



Spending a weekend in Kansas City catching up with great friends!


Lounging by the pool catching up on magazines and my current book "The White Queen" by Phillippa Gregory. No care in the world.... {Or until Monday at least...}

xoxo,
Molly



Friday, August 5, 2011

Vintage Jewelry

So, you know I'm in Wichita but I don't know if I ever said why.  I am in town for a family reunion on my dad's side.  It starts tomorrow but my immediate family is trickling in today... {2 sisters, 1 brother, 1 brother-in-law, 2 nieces, 1 nephew}.  Last night my mom and I went through old boxes of my dad's parents things that we had acquired.  I hit the jackpot in box 2 when I found lots of vintage jewelry my Grandma used to wear!  There was also an old saddle bag I plan on adding to my bag collection....




Unfortunately we decided that as siblings we would go through a line and pick what we want one by one.  There is a lot more jewelry than this, however my heart kind of dropped.  These were my favorite pieces, I especially want the long white drop necklace {I am fairly certain I would wear this almost everyday}, the pearl necklace and earring set, the necklace with the caged tourmaline stone, and the pocket watch {which I would put on a long gold chain}.... oops... I bet that's not going to happen.  I can't wait to hear the stories behind each piece when my Aunt is here tomorrow!

I also acquired some of my mom's mom {my Granny's} pieces of vintage clothing while here.  I am postive if I took pictures and posted people would make fun of me so I am going to put together "What I Wore" posts for Fall so you can see my vision :)

I will keep you posted on what I get in the pickings!

xoxo,
Molly