Tuesday, January 25, 2011

The Closet Detox!

A few other blogs I read have brought up the subject of closets...dream closets, living up to one's closet, etc.  Lately, I've been having a strong urge to dump out my entire closet and start from scratch.  Not entirely reasonable, considering that I very recently frittered away a big ol' chunk of savings on a major vacation (worth every penny!!).  Nevertheless, I need a refresher.

For starters, I've got way too much Anthropologie going on!  I love the brand's aesthetic, but it's become too easy, too convenient.  For the past year or so the Anthro pieces have multiplied like rabbits in my closet, and if I don't cut myself off now (and get rid of some of it), it's going to look eerily similar to their Sale Room. 

Taking an Anthro break:  vintage cardi, Buffalo Exchange top & jeans, Urban Outfitters flats

Next, I've been hoarding pieces that seriously need to be retired.  Recycled plastic flats from 4 years ago?  Get ready to be re-recycled!  Michael Kors platform wedges with the nonexistent soles?  Red & black elf booties?  Sadly, your time has come.

I'm toying with the idea of selling anything that is still in good condition...haven't decided yet but I'll keep you posted!

In the next few weeks, I'll be working on clearing out the Unnecessaries, and carefully rebuilding my closet with vintage and Lisa-made pieces (and if needed, the occasional piece from a non-chain boutique).  Meaningful purchases only...can I do it?  Here goes--it's time for a closet cleanse!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Jet Lagged

I'm back...from the Philippines!  We were there for the past 10 days, visiting family in Cagayan and Bohol.  It was my husband's first time there and the first time since we lived there that my whole family (my parents, brother, & I) made the trip.



More later.  Still recovering from the jet lag, which means alternately sleeping and watching movies :P

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Capes and Kung Fu

The Sunday after Christmas, my husband & I spent some quality time lounging around, eating chocolates and watching movies!  Kung fu films have become our lazy day go-to on Netflix streaming, and we came across Red Cliff:

This is an awesome movie by the way.  I don't know if it qualifies as "kung fu" necessarily but for once, I was totally engrossed in a war movie.  At times, it seemed to fall together too easily for the good guys...but it was beautiful to watch, especially the carefully devised battles.

I was also completely smitten with all the capes!!  Here are a couple more capey shots:




Now that I think about it, cape-y pieces have been on my radar (and my To Do list) for some time.  It may have started with this Marni dress from Spring 07:

from Style.com

And then there's this look from J Crew last year--


I mean...I pretty much have to make myself a cape now.  But what direction to take it in...any suggestions?

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Pow Bang Flash

Happy New Year!

Blouse, Anthro; Belt, Urban Outfitters; vintage leather skirt courtesy of my aunt in Germany; basic nude heels, Nine West/DSW

Craig & I had a low-key NYE with friends.  As usual, I forgot to take any photos whatsoever.  Maybe that should be one of my resolutions this year :)

Usually, I make way more resolutions than are realistically achievable in one year.  However, I did manage to pull off the important ones, and I'm really proud of that!  In 2010 I managed to--
1. find a better paying job
2. spend less, and put more money in our emergency & travel funds
3. get back into sewing regularly

This year I think I will keep it simple:
1. Finish reading House of Leaves (Craig gave me a first edition for Christmas!)
2. Only buy hardback books from now on, as I mentioned previously
3. Be more social.  This year I have been a workaholic and a hermit, and I need to be better about making time for fun :)

I have other less likely plans (learn kung fu...huh?) but we'll just focus on these for now.  What are your resolutions for this year?