January 2009

+ & -

by Lara on January 19, 2009

in + & -

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  • Izze grapefruit “sparkling juice” is my new obsession.
  • 48 hours without looking at a computer was delightful!
  • Target has delivered what Vans and Converse couldn’t do for me – black hi-tops that fit properly! Oh, and they’re less than $6 on sale!

  • Receiving a gift of a pair of shoes from Report Signature was so exciting! I have coveted these shoes for almost a year but now that I have them, I have no idea how or when I’m going to wear them! They are so over-the-top! I’m going to be wearing them soon and it’s going to be hot!
  • I start my final semester at VCU tomorrow. 2 night classes, one night a week 4-9:40pm and it’s all over in May! (Then what?)
  • The Desktop Walpaper Projectupdates regulary with new designs. This is what I have on my laptop. (Go to the light little guys!) I can no longer find it on the site so I can’t tell you who the artist is. (click for larger)

  • I’m really enjoying this Italian fashion blog!
  • I can’t believe it has taken me this long to go to an Indian restaurant but I finally did and well, a Sunday brunch Indian buffet was the best way to go to try a ton of stuff – all awesome!
  • Christian Louboutin usually adds a platform to every pair he designs. It’s nice to see these classic peep toe pumps in one of my favorite color combinations. They would be a staple in my spring summer wardrobe. Sigh. I love the delicate vamp and glossiness of this shoe!

  • I adore every apartment inspiration picture on this post. This white bathroom also makes me drool.
  • Look at this sewing machine! OMG!
  • I really like this tableware designed by tattoo artist Paul Timman (for Ink Dish) featuring Japanese Irezumi tattoos. The design placement is what really makes it.

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  • I realized why Rachael Ray will always be my arch nemesis. She didn’t know what a damned sausage ball was. Seriously? (Have you seen this woman stand up from a sofa when she’s wearing a dress?)
  • Insomnia.
  • Branford Marsalis tells us that students today are full of shit. I can’t help but agree, being the oldest student in my classes for the past few years, I can attest that he’s dead on. The video clip is short and sweet, from Before the Music Dies.
  • If you’re going to sell a t-shirt with a printed design for $30, maybe you should make sure the design actually lines up with the collar on both sides so it doesn’t look like it was manufactured by the blind. Urban Outfitters needs to step it up with quality control.

UPDATE on a big god damn negative: Well, it looks like I’m a complete idiot who can’t even read a calendar because I sincerely thought I was starting Spring semester tomorrow. No. My two classes started last Wednesday. Now, this boggles my mind since I would NEVER schedule a class when LOST comes on. I have no idea how this happened. So, in a massive panic I downloaded the syllabus for each class. History of the Middle Ages is fine. The books haven’t even come in yet so I ordered them on Amazon like the teacher told us to. I haven’t missed a thing. History of Architecture was a whole different ball game. At the top of the syllabus in bold letters, it said that if you missed the first class, you would be lucky to pass the class with a D because he held a full lecture and gave a quiz which cannot be made up so, I already started with a ZERO. Oh, and the add/drop dates ended yesterday so, I will have to beg and plead to not have to pay for this class I am no longer in, and I can’t enroll in another class this semester which means I will have to take a summer class which means I won’t be graduating in May. I think I’m going to curl into a ball and cry myself to sleep after I vomit all over the place. FUCK!

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take me… away

by Lara on January 18, 2009

in art,geek

The satisfaction of blog assisted voyeurism is kinda strange. Out of the ridiculous amount of blogs I follow, a few are quite personal. They aren’t of anyone I know, aren’t particularly focused on fashion or any specific thing, and they are mainly just full of photos of these peoples’ adventures in life.

  • Cali Dewitt is an artist and runs a gallery. His girlfriend is in a band and has a brutal blog of her daily outfits that I thought were a joke at first but they’re not. I adore her. Cali ended his old blog “I Wish God Were Alive to See This” but thankfully moved it to RVCA. They are lovely people living a lovely life in L.A. full of love, friendship, beauty and simplicity.
  • I have no idea who runs the blog Vectors of the Necronomicon but it’s tons of pics of kids who ride bikes all over L.A. and have adventures.
  • “Mischeif & manic marbles of the mayhem-esque me’s” is by a girl named Sanna, living in London, who has incredible luck, takes crazy photos, burns the candle at both ends and has a penchant for shoplifting.
  • Kumi Monster, the latex fetish model I adore has a moblog of her world travels (a lot of airports).
  • Lastly, I love notes by naive. Tommy, a girl in London is also the photogrpaher for killer style blog Jak & Jil but it’s her personal blog that is most interesting to me.

I don’t know what it is about these candid travel/adventure shots. I need to take more pictures. I need to travel more. L.A.? London? don’t get me started on everywhere I want to go…

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pull!

by Lara on January 16, 2009

in photo friday

Everyone’s seen this picture before but I think it’s adorable. They look so happy! Hope everyone has an adventurous weekend!

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unrequited

by Lara on January 15, 2009

in fashion

Behold! I found a January 2009 issue of Elle magazine and scanned the picture of the Report Signature “Baird” neoprene booties that are not going to be made. :(

They are so over the top, I suppose you would either love them or hate them. I was going to rock the hell out of these shoes this summer. What a disappointment.

(my first and second posts on these crazy wonderful shoes)

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hemming and hawing

by Lara on January 14, 2009

in crafty,fashion

I won a turquoise blue shantung silk (really polyester) pencil skirt on eBay months ago. I think, with shipping, I paid $3 for it. It’s in pristine condition, from some professional clothing line called Kasper. Whatever. It’s really decadent and reminds me of a bit of trashy Versace. I am planning on wearing it with black opaque tights, suede heeled ankle boots and a fitted black top – just a small burst of color for the heck of it.

I’m short. (5’1″ of pure terror, actually.) Typical pencil skirts for normal women are always too long for me and rarely do I get lucky and find a perfect length. Because this skirt had a muti-layered effect at the hem and a slit that I didn’t feel like messing with, I finally got the energy today to just go ahead and hack 10.5″ inches off the sucker. I tried it on and with a safety pin, marked how short I wanted it to be and then got out a trusty ruler and tailor’s chalk and marked my cutting line, about 1/2″ below where I actually want the hem to end.

Okay… this 1/2″ thing is pretty crucial. I have a serger which allows me to finish edges and only have to fold up an edge once when hemming. So, it’s up to you to assess how many times you plan on folding up your hems. The thicker the fabric, the wider the hem – is the common sewing rule. Think about these things when your measuring out your hem allowance and before you cut! You can always make things shorter but not longer after you close the scissors.

This skirt also has a lining which I kept in tact so I went ahead and cut it the same length but planned on hemming the lining about an inch and the actual skirt was hemmed about a half inch – this way there would be no accidental peeking out of the lining.

Sergers require 4 large spools of thread and I only have white and black at the moment. No one will be seeing the black serged edges, as long as I don’t slip and land with my ankles behind my head. Here are some pointless serging pictures for your viewing enjoyment.

After I did the edges, I fired up the iron and folded up the hems, pressing them in place. I cannot stress to you enough how much an iron will help you in all of your sewing projects. I prefer it to pinning if I can get away with it. (There are some things a serger can’t do and even though I could do a blind hem stitch and serge all at once, I have yet to master that technique and wasn’t in the mood for ripping out seams over and over to prove something to myself this afternoon.)  If you don’t have a serger, don’t fret! Just fold up twice, iron in place and sew once!

So here I am sewing away on a regular machine. The gauge plate on the machine is also your friend. I just lined my ironed up edge to the 4/8″ mark and really didn’t have to think anymore after that!

And here she is… all done.  Yay for color! Yay for a $3 skirt finally making it out of my to-do sewing pile!

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happy harness for cats

by Lara on January 13, 2009

in fashion

Buying lingerie is torture for me. I’m not talking about basic bras and panties. That’s no big deal. I know which basics fit at Victoria’s Secret and don’t even need to try anything on. Beautiful statement lingerie is hell. First off, I’m small but busty. I’m not going to get so personal as to reveal my bra size but lets just say I’m lucky I can even get a few bras at VS. It’s really pretty ridiculous. I’m a small down below and a large up top. This does not average out to a medium.

After Oprah did that big deal show where it was revealed that the majority of women wear the wrong sized bra, I took myself to get properly measured. There are a few different ways of measuring for a proper fit and well, I guess I had been shuffling the wrong set of numbers. I had been squeezing myself into 36Cs for years, underwire digging into my sides, and every time I leaned over, something popped out. Well, when the woman whipped her tape measure only under my armpits and told me the cold hard truth, I burst out laughing so loudly – from both disbelief and utter embarrassment. What? Are you kidding me? She handed me some to try on, betting her life she was right. I couldn’t believe it! I was forever doomed and could no longer live in denial in my ill-fitting but beautiful undies.

When you know the truth and finally feel true comfort for the first time since you hit puberty, you never look back at those too small torture devices. I spent a fortune on a whole new wardrobe of comfy well-fitted bras but was saddened to give away my huge collection of (gorgeous) but painful harnesses.

Well, when your size is on the edge of obnoxious, you walk a fine line when it comes to affordable but attractive bras. Things begin to get foggy in the bra design world and you have to dig through wide straps, 4-hook granny bras, and strange paneled contraptions that look like quilts on your tatas. Department store bras are out of the question and you’re stuck with VS and and over-priced specialty boutiques.

God help you if you ever want to wear a one-piece negligee. The top fits and the bottom is huge, or the bottom fits and you’re popping out the top in a very unattractive way.  While these articles of clothing aren’t suposed to stay on for very long, you would like to at least make a roaring first impression. Rarely will I ever find a one-piece with the proper cup size that doesn’t have an enormous ass attached. Matching novelty sets are always a problem too as they rarely let you mix and match sizes. (Don’t get me started on swimsuits and adjustable ties, or even dresses for that matter.) Anything pretty, seasonal, cottony, lacey or fun is rarely ever in my size and when I finally do find the rare thing that works, I’m on it with a quickness… a fierceness!

How I would love to wear something reminiscent of La Perla or Kiki de Montparnasse… or even Puimond or Atsuko Kudo… oh… so… very… shiny!  growl!

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working modern

by Lara on January 12, 2009

in decor

I’ve always enjoyed industrial/commercial design elements much more than those of residential. Industrial strength doors and flooring and the stronger small fixtures just made more sense to me than wimpy door hinges and flimsy wood railings. Things that need repeated maintenance like painting, and cleaning that involves waxes and special products just irks me to no end. Metal and glass make sense in my mind and I think I would’ve been happy to live in the icy stoic Fortress of Solitude. When I was little, a new office park  (The Boulders) was being built off a local highway and I was in awe over the course of that year watching the steel skeletons transform into mirror covered, sharply angled modern structures. My mother eventually had to do a lot of business in this area and it was always fun for me to be able to go with her. (A glass encased home would tickle my fancy to no end.)

Here’s a collection of modern commercial design that I have been stashing away for quite some time, throughout my perusings of the interwebs. The clean lines, sharp angles, large open spaces, natural light, abundance of glass and minimalistic approach makes a certain part of my brain feel safe and at ease.

This is the NRGi headquarters in Denmark, designed by SHL architects. I actually love the bamboo flooring since it’s virtually indestructible (and responsible) and being juxtaposed against oddly angled concrete just feels right. (via Arch Daily)

This is Chebanca!, a bank in Milan, Italy.  The fact that it’s nestled into a traditional and probably historic building is wonderful to me. I also like the warm glowing yellow accents. More pictures via Trend Insights.

The vaulted angled ceilings and wide open expanse of space of the Grenada Science park in Spain looks like heaven. Architects Carlos Ferrater and Jiminez Brasa Arquitectos utilized a $50 million budget for this enormous project. More amazing pictures via Arch Daily.

This is also in Spain – the Bakio Sports Center. There’s nothing exceptional about this building. It’s unassuming (purposefully so as not to overwhelm the scenery) but will be relevant for ages, designed by ACXT architects.

The translucent cellular polycarbonate, in the public perimeter areas, resolves the thermal insulation and together with the birches, the protection from the western sun. At night it turns into a lighthouse which crowns the valley. (via Arch Daily)

This is a concept by Gianni Botsford Architects for Kolkatta, India. There are 18 more pictures you can view there. Wow.

…the intent of this project is to create an environment that captures the cultural and intellectual intensity of Kolkatta. An organic street, naturally ventilated and self shaded, is populated with open cafes, flower shops, fruit sellers, kiosks, chaat vaalas, and  musicians leading to the retail, hotel, library, art gallery and auditorium that make up the programme for this hillside site. In the client’s words this is an intellectual destination. The process of evolving the architecture from the various forces prevalent on the site results in a humanist solution- the nature of the space forces the inhabitants to think, explore and discover.

In Austria, one can do their grocery shopping at the super styley Mpreis! (via Serious Eats)

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cheap date

by Lara on January 12, 2009

in fashion

Sometimes I get really lucky with crazy cheap shoes. I have plenty of pairs I’ve scored for $10 or less and most have actually held up and are exceptionally comfortable (never settle for an uncomfortable shoe). I don’t wear each pair very often and take very good care of them so, they don’t fall apart with excessive wear. There’s something deeply satisfying about getting something that completely transforms an outfit for less than a lunch out. Of course, the inherent quality is low and they are never made from leather. Most are also very bad knockoffs and considering I can’t keep up with everything, I have unwittingly bought some copies. Back to comfort, el cheapos are notoriously stiff and if something is digging into your foot the first time you try them on, this isn’t a matter of leather stretching out. They will always be painful. Always. Be prepared to send something back if you order online.

Well today I needed some cheap shoe therapy so I checked out my four favorite sites for the lowest of the low (Go Jane, Cutesy Girl, Amiclubwear, and Shiekh). I found about 10 pairs of shoes for ultra cheap and when I went to add them to my cart, none of them were in stock, or they were in someone else’s shopping bag. Infuriating. These are some of what I wanted from Amiclubwear… no dice. So disappointing because I love a step-in wedge without stupid little ankle straps. The step-in style is very Bottega Veneta and much more adult and sexy, and a bit difficult to find. We won’t talk about the flat ankle wrap sandals… they were $5. Yeah. For a trend that’s going to be over within a year… I am shameless.

cheap shoe bonanza
cheap shoe bonanza by mymilkglassheart

I was also really disappointed to see these HORRIBLE knockoffs of the Pour La Victoire “Sacha” on Go Jane. I wrote about these insane shoes a while back. They are works of art and I wouldn’t wear these terrible cheap versions if they were given to me! I don’t even want to add a picture of the knock off so, just click the link to be appalled.

the originals!

Good luck hunting but beware of buying something just because it’s super cheap. Get what you LOVE! (I know I would’ve regretted those gladiator stillettos on the bottom right.)

UPDATE 01.13.09: I checked for the ankle wrap flats one more time this morning and they were back in stock! I ordered them in black and taupe! Yay!

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crushing

by Lara on January 11, 2009

in fashion

They’re the “Luella” style by Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent at Revolve clothing. Okay. Never heard of his brand before. Whatever. These wedges are so badass. I love zippers and other easy on/off fasteners. Other than with ultra skinny jeans, these would look so great with black shorts in the summer. Giant wedge sandals are my favorite shoes in the whole world and I’m now on the hunt in anticipation of warm weather!

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+ & -

by Lara on January 10, 2009

in + & -

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  • Another embroidery genius at work – Kate O’Connor knocks my socks off.

  • I have listened to this song about 15 times a day since I discovered it on Gnarlitude. It haunts me. I love new music and I love that blog and I think I now may love The Kills. (This one too.)
  • Thanks for the link Bobby! True love can last a lifetime! :) I already knew this was possible but whatevs.
  • I love love love this stainless steel necklace by Anna Corpron of Brevity. Damn you lasers!

  • A friend of mine has been as equally enamored as I am with old items spray painted in a single color and made brand new. This foam coated furniture  by Sixinch, designed by Pieter Jamart, is for you Marisa! Apparently the finish is incredibly soft yet durable and the pieces can be used outside as well. (via Freshome)

  • This handy guide to converting to the metric system is pretty cute, from one of my favorite geeky webcomics, xkcd.com.
  • I really like this diy project from Kingdom of Style to make a one shoulder top out of a wide neck tee you already have laying around… do I have any wide neck tees already laying around? hmmm…
  • Thank effin god the holiday season is over!
  • A sweet list of 46 awesome freeware applications to geek out with, from unplggd.
  • This painting by Eric Fortune called “A Want to Believe” is something I could stare at for hours. (click to enlarge)

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  • Other than a tragic case of insomnia, I can’t think of too many things to put on my negative list this time around. It just doesn’t work to take my meds at 3am and that’s when I seem to be crawling into bed and staying awake until 5 and 6am. Holler at a bitch on Twitter if you’re up! That’s usually my blogging time.
  • There’s been a rash of aggressive LOL cats lately, so many that I actually took note. What does all this feline violence mean? Should we be scared?    1 . 2 . 3 . 4
  • Walking away from my computer for a day and having almost 1000 blog posts build up in my Google reader is the suck. Seriously? I don’t have time for this and gave quite a few subscriptions the axe today.
  • Is this good or bad? I laughed my ass off so hard just looking at this doll’s face, I had to wipe tears from my eyes. (Thank you Craftastrophe, you made my craptastic day!)

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