LOOK OF THE DAY: "HERE COMES THE SUN"

INSPIRATION: THE LAST DAYS OF SUMMER

BENEATH THE PALMS

I wish that there were more hours in the day! I haven't posted in ages, but I guess that ought to be a sign that I'm working hard. So here's a mini update. The online store is picking up, and there are tons of amazing projects and opportunities that have come my way that I can't wait to show you all! And for all of you Tumblrs, I'll be having an Urban Legends giveaway pretty soon that will be up for grabs very soon! I'm SUPER excited for all of the great things that are to come, and truly thank all of you for hangin' in there with me on this fashionable journey! :)

PURE NIRVANA

 Despite the bipolar weather, this past weekend was pretty sweet. Kevin and I headed over to Downtown L.A. to share a vending booth with some of my photography friends at the Artwalk. Aside from the fact that a pedestrian got hit by a car that had jumped the curb, it was a pretty cool day. I made a nice chunk of change at my Urban Legends Vintage booth and had tons of fun in the meantime. If I wasn't on my business woman tip, I would have taken tons of pictures of all of the swaggerific guys and gals that came by. As for all of you So Cal fashion lovers, my store will have a booth at the Inland Empire's very own Funky Fresh Flea in Riverside. I'll keep you all updated with the deets, so be on the lookout!

GRAND OPENING!!!! URBAN LEGENDS VINTAGE

After plenty of crazy nights and stress that would make most people yank their hair out, 

I am extremely proud to say that the time has finally come, ladies and gents:

Urban Legends Vintage is officially open for your shopping pleasure!

And in lieu of our grand opening, 

we're offering FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS to anyone in the U.S!

From custom-made denim cutoffs for the fashion savvy gals to rare vintage duds for the dudes,

Urban Legends is the place to make your wardrobe ultra-cool.

CLICK HERE to grab some dope threads before they're all gone!

Follow Urban Legends on Twitter and Facebook!

SUMMER SUMMER SUMMERTIME

It has been a strenuous task trying to find clothes that are cool--in a fashionable and beat the heat sense. 

I'm all for layering, but this summer heatwave that is currently scorching So Cal is trying its hardest to cramp my style. So as a tip for those of you who want to stay looking chic while not having to suffer from being drenched in sweat, I recommend pairing lightweight items with one another. This will make for awesome layering and will still leave you looking stylish. While sunscreen and plenty of water are both summer essentials, getting your hands on some colorful, airy items is a must this summer!

OUTTA HERE, OFF TO SOMEWHERE

Graduating college is quite bittersweet. While there's the burden of student loans and "real world" pressure to land a good job, there is also a heightened sense of excitement within me for what is to come. 

That dreaded mantra of a question, "What are you going to do now?", is all that I've been hearing 

these past few weeks since my tassel switched over from the right to the left. 

To be honest, I don't know what tomorrow holds.... and as stressful as this may be for some, I love it, because it leaves open the door of endless possibilities. The only blueprint of a plan that I have drafted is that I am moving to New York (pending my savings account significantly increases in the next few months). And from there, whatever happens happens. 

In the meantime, I've been chilling. lol I haven't been completely idle, considering that I've been hunting for jobs like crazy. But my day-to-day has primarily been spent trying out new foods, reading, and working on the launch of my own online vintage boutique. So as of now, I'm just living. Taking things as they come and using all of this free time on my hands to do the things that I've been dying to do is truly liberating. No more all nighter study sessions, lengthy and seemingly senseless readings, and all of the other things that college students have hovering over them. So it is farewell to the routine-ridden quarters as a student and hello to the unpredictably innovative days as a graduate. :)

SHE IS BETTER THAN HE

I love giving masculine pieces a feminine touch.

 It's always cool to flirt with the gender boundaries when it comes to fashion--sex change surgeries, mmmm not so much.

This So Cal weather is constantly fluctuating, so I decided to do it up with the layering

 and incorporate a few menswear-inspired pieces.

THAT GIRL'S GOT STYLE!:: SOLANGE KNOWLES

One of my biggest style/beauty/everything else inspirations is Solange Knowles, so you can imagine how excited I was to finally see her as Who What Wear's Girl of the Month! As a WWW intern, I got an early peak into the fashion closet to see all of the amazing Solange-inspired frocks, and I must say, I am very pleased with the selections of today's GOTM story!

No matter the scene, Solange always manages to turn heads. Whether rocking ethnocentric duds from Boxing Kitten, looking incredibly chic with a funky turban wrap--which has become her style staple and has caused a trend frenzy--or piling on layers that still show simplicity, Solange has got this entire fashion flair in the bag. She's extraordinarily daring and is a usual subject of high-brow critics....But you know what they say, if they're talking about you, you must be doing something right.

While the industry can tend to turn a blind eye to the concept of diversity and shut out people of color who are overflowing with creativity, it's so awesome to see a trendsetter like Solange be able to transcend all boundaries! It is 2011, so you would think that racial ignorance would be diminished by now, but sadly, it still rears its ugly head. However, I'm so glad that Who What Wear isn't all about the color of your skin, but is more obsessed with the funky clamor of one's closet! In this industry, fashion is what we all have in common, regardless of anything else, and I'm so relieved that I work for a company who embraces that! :)

Bravo Ms. Sol-Angel! :)

THIS THING CALLED LIFE

For starters, I'd like to give a big HELLO to all of you new readers!!!!!

It wasn't until now that I actually realized I haven't posted anything in quite some time.

Online outlets like Twitter, Facebook, and even Blogger can cause us to get so caught up in the

 "who has the most followers" hype that we miss the point of it all....that is, if there is actually a point. lol

I've noticed lately that the blogosphere has gradually shifted from my outlet of expression to a burden,

where the organic drive to post whatever inspires me or comes to mind seems to suddenly be irrelevant.

Writing has never been this way for me, which is why I guess I've been on a bit of a hiatus.

I needed some time to breathe, to collect my thoughts and not get sucked into the tech-obsessed world that is such a huge part of our culture.

As crazy as it may sound, I've actually noticed a lot of personal growth that has occurred

 in this pull back from social media......and I like it. lol

I've had the opportunity to actually get things done!....even though my procrastination with homework is still a challenge I have yet to completely overcome.

I was surprised at the internal growth that resulted in me stepping away from my Macbook--and Blackberry.

The pressures surrounding the fact that I am graduating from college next month were the icing on the cake.

I've been searching like crazy to find a job, and have had no luck thus far.

But, optimism is key, which is why I've been strongly considering moving to NYC.

I'm in dyer need of a change of scenery. 

Don't get me wrong: I love California.

But I don't want to be that bitter granny who regrets never making the ballsy move to the Big Apple.

If I have kids--and even grandkids--I want to have remarkable stories about my youthful ventures,

even if they're all tales of incredible failure; at least I can say that I did it! :)

So that's where I'm at right now, getting things in order and going for the gusto.

Stay along for the ride.

W MAGAZINE: KALEIDOSCOPIC HIP POP EDITORIAL

Stylist, Lori Goldstein + W magazine = Stellarly fantabulous. {Yes, I just made that up. lol}

The crazy mix of textures and colors makes the model seem to pop right off the page. This topsy turvy editorial  is a perfect culmination of Spring fashion.

And although this spread is set to hit newsstands tomorrow, I figured I'd share my 

early scoop discovery with you!

CALL ME IRRESISTIBLE: SPRING/SUMMER BEAUTY LOOKS FOR WOMEN OF COLOR

I've been wanting to try my hand at experimenting with color combos that have been dancing around in my head all Winter, and what better time to give them a try than amidst this amazing Cali weather! I've been anticipating buying some new beauty products--lipsticks, nail polishes, and eye shadows in particular. I've never been much of a glamazon when it comes to make-up because I've always felt it should enhance your beauty rather than define it. However, I've always been a fan of the fabulousness of it all.

As a young woman of color, it's hard to find shades that appeal to my dark skin tone. Although I like mainstream beauty editorials, I do believe that at times, they can be a bit unrealistic and unable to cross cultural boundaries. If you're just as obsessed with fashion magazines as I am, this lack of universal appeal can be depressing and irritating at the same time. lol Yet oddly enough, when I spotted this editorial from Harper's Bazaar Singapore, I felt as if the make-up artist snatched some of my ideas right out of by brain when I wasn't looking! lol Although the  model, Rudi, is much more fairer skinned, her beauty looks are phenomenal and can work for women of all shades! Deep purples, bright pinks, and shimmery corals, all paired with sultry lux shades that vamp up the eyes. AAH! I can't wait to try them!!

HIDDEN ALLEYWAYS

After a long day of interning, I drove down this random alley in an effort to dodge the street traffic 

and discovered this great spot for a quick photo op!

Although there were a few sketchy prowlers that made their way by me as my camera was snapping away, 

I still managed to nab these awesome shots.

But once I caught a glimpse of the LAPD making their way toward me, I jumped in my car! lol

Not because I was afraid of them....but because I was afraid of hefty price of getting a ticket, 

since L.A. cops are known for being sticklers about giving ridiculously priced fines for photography.

THE RIDE THAT NEVER CAME

VANITY VID: MY AWESOME SPRING/SUMMER FASHION HAUL!!!

On Monday {March 21st}, I celebrated my 22nd birthday!

I truly appreciate all of your birthday wishes :)

In lieu of that and my tax return, I did a bit of shopping......Okay...a LOT of shopping! haha

I grabbed some great things from Asos, Forever 21, H&M and Cotton On for the upcoming Spring/Summer season.

And with these new additions to my already massive wardrobe, I'm definitely set for months and months to come.

UP FOR GRABS: VINTAGE UNISEX ARTSY PRINT SHIRT

After much consideration, I decided to sell this shirt.

I've worn it a few times, and since my closet is so massive, it's gotten lost among all of the other crazy stuff that I have.

Since summer is quickly on its way, I know this would be of good use to somebody out there! lol

Although it is technically a men's shirt, it definitely has universal appeal.

Check out this funky shirt and more vintage items in the online shop!

FASHION, LIGHTS, & L.A NIGHTS: WHO WHAT WEAR / JOYRICH EVENTS

Last week, all of us Who What Wear interns got to take a load off from the hustle & bustle of the office.

We enjoyed a night out at the Los Angeles boutique, Satine, for the book signing for Who What Wear's newest book, What to Wear, Where!

The newly released publication is jam packet with TONS of fashion advice 
from Who What Wear's top ladies, Katherine Power and Hillary Kerr, about what to wear for any occasion!

From job interviews to date nights, this book is an excellent go-to guide, and a necessity for every fashionista!

photo via WhoWhatWear.com

VANITY VID: PERSONAL QUESTIONS

After gaining inspiration from other Youtubers, I decided to do a personal questions video! If you all have any other questions you'd like me to answer, feel free to send them my way! :)

NYFW FALL 2011: INTO THE WILD

NYFW takes a trip to the exotic.

Animal prints, tribal fabrics and colorful blends are my absolute favorite parts of what's in store for Fall 2011. 

Though I've always wanted to take a trip to embark upon an African safari,

I don't mind settling for these eclectic runway looks in the meantime. 

NYFW FALL 2011: GLAMOUR AMOUR

I thing the glitz and glam is one of the greatest things about being a girl.

If anybody knows how to jazz up a gown, sequins, or a fuzzy fur,

it would be a woman.

NYFW FALL 2011: DARK & DAPPER

Crazy. Sexy. Cool.

No, I'm not talking about TLC. lol

Playing around with the ideas of androgyny and sultriness, 

New York Fashion Week took a walk on the dark side.

NYFW FALL 2011: ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES

With us nearing the 20th anniversary of Marc Jacobs' infamous grunge collection--the one that got him fired from Perry Ellis and yet launched him into being one of the greatest designers of all time--Joesph Altuzarra couldn't have picked a better time to debut his take on teen spirit.

Rich burnt oranges and dark olives, silky satin dresses with shredded hems, and fur-frilled parkas are all diverse elements that seem to work so perfectly together.

NYFW FALL 2011: IN LIVING COLOR

Although we're still in the dreary midst of winter,  the bright future of fashion for the year's end has made its way down the runways of New York City. Fall 2011 takes on a colorful twist, giving the finger to the blah mood that sunshine-less weather brings while not turning a blind eye to the furs, heavy layers, and woolen fabrics that keep us toasty.

HELLO LOVER

Christian Siriano, Fall 2011 RTW

Doesn't this just scream Carrie Bradshaw?!!!?!?!

This entire look has SJP written all over it.

If it weren't for the bipolar weather and the meager limits of my bank account,

I'd wear this everyday! lol

photo via style.com

HE'S A KEEPER

I don't know how I failed to mention how my Valentine's Day went,

but nonetheless, it was amazing...

considering the fact that I got these puppies as a gift from Kevin!

My first pair of Jeffrey Campbell kicks!

Aren't they amazing?

I still can't believe they're mine! ALL MINE! ha ha haaa {evil laugh} lol

This year, V-Day was all about simplicity.

Nothing too fancy, just a yummy dinner and some QT.

This gift was the icing on the lovey dovey cake,

and I can't wait to get my hands on another pair.

GARAGE BY MIDNIGHT

ONE STOP SHOP

So as promised,

I've added even more amazing vintage finds to the shop!

Here are a few of my faves! :)

Get 'em while you can!

Vintage Velvet Grunge Rose Printed Blouse

Vintage Sheer Garden Floral Maxi Dress 

 Vintage Tropical Multi-Color Floral Print Skirt

 Vintage Nerdy Multi-Color Plaid Knit Sweater/Mini Dress

ORANGE GROVE

Sadly enough, I'm just now realizing the beauty of the UC Riverside campus. 

I guess since I've been so focused on leaving ever since I arrived,

I haven't paid the scenery much attention. lol
....College does that to you....

Being that my school is big on research, we have tons of oranges....

e v e r y w h e r e .

I'm often tempted to snatch one up for a quick snack when I come across a random orange grove,

but then the huge warning signs that caution against the fruits' pesticides

remind me that the forbidden fruits are not stomach friendly.

Brown faux fur shawl:: H&M, Vintage men's plaid collar shirt:: Thrifted, LUX maroon racerback vest:: Urban Outfitters, Army green linen shorts:: Forever 21, Cream knee-highs:: Forever 21, Brown combat boots:: Forever 21

GOOD NEWS IS THE BEST NEWS

This last week has been BANANAS!

But I'm so happy to share with you all the results!

Drumroll please........lol

The Vanity Girl Vintage shop is up and running!!!!!!!

There's tons of fab vintage finds up for grabs, waiting for you to give them a new home.

Though most of the merchandise is primarily for all of you fellow fashionistas,

there are plenty of things for guys to choose from as well.

I'll be updating the site at least once a week and will post new items as they come!

Be sure to click on the SHOP button in the nav bar at the top of the page to visit the site!!

And SPREAD THE WORD! 

Here's what's ready for your purchasing pleasure! ;)

VINTAGE Black Silver Sheer Python Blouse

VINTAGE Unisex Multicolor Plaid Collar Shirt

 

VINTAGE Unisex Lumberjack Plaid Wool Vest

VINTAGE Unisex Multicolor Artsy Print Collar Shirt

VINTAGE Unisex Multicolor Chunky Knit Sweater

VINTAGE Bone Black Tribal Print Blouse

VINTAGE Unisex Plaid Wool Collar Shirt

VINTAGE Unisex Plaid Golf Pullover

VINTAGE Unisex Multicolor Plaid Collar Shirt

On top of this good news is another update about my fashion endeavors.

After a lonnnnnng hunt,

I landed an internship at Who What Wear!

U n b e l i e v a b l e .

I'm here as I blog. lol....and it's still all very surreal to be part of such an amazing company.

Everyone is super nice, and I'm looking forward to all of the hard work that is to come. :)

NO FURNITURE SO CHARMING AS BOOKS

I used to love to read.

I'm not sure exactly when it was that I fell out of love with it,

but I know it definitely had to do with me being in college.

Being a Creative Writing major,

both reading and writing are inevitable and inescapable....

and the fact that I want to write for a living as a fashion journalist someday allows me to predict that much of my future will be mostly spent with my head buried within a book or magazine.

Since I've been in school, reading has became such a drag.

There are sooooo many amazing stories out there,

yet due to having professors who are obsessed with the world's most uninteresting authors, lol 

I've been in a reading rut...

stuck with the boring, the abstract, the overly theoretical, and the non-captivating.

My delay in posting lately has largely stemmed from the fact that I have craploads of reading to tackle.

Thank God the materials spark some part of my interest, 

or else my money spent on Amazon to buy the books would be a total waste.

I don't think I'll actually be able to indulge in something of my choice until I graduate...

since most of my free time is spent dissecting class materials.

But until then,

I'll just have to deal.

FANCY SCHMANCY

A few weeks ago, Natashia from She'sFancy.com approached me to be part of an mini editorial feature!

Despite her cold and the even colder weather, we duked it out and had an amazing shoot!

Be sure to peep the article! :)

NO PARKING

Wearing Denim Levi's jacket, DIY vintage floral top, Black & white striped tank:: H&M, 

Maroon cargo pants:: Forever 21, Brown combat boots:: Forever 21

Things are looking quite promising for my online store! :)

After much consideration, I decided I'm probably going to go with Ebay as the selling platform...

but depending on my progress, I might switch to BigCartel.

We'll see...

This week is already ridiculous,

and it's only MONDAY!

As far as school goes, I have tons of reading to do...

a lot of which I'm already behind and it's only the second week of school.

For one of my classes on Ethnic Politics, my professor wants us to read one 

of the three books he's assigned for us by this Thursday.

I wouldn't have much of a problem with this if I didn't have four other classes to keep up with...

plus the fact that I have A LIFE! lol

But hey, I guess that's the beauty of a multi-tasker:

making it work.

Since we're on the subject of my college life,

I found it disgustingly hilarious that in my Religious Studies class today,

my professor farted.....

TWICE!

mid lecture. lmbo!

I tried soooooo hard not to laugh, 

and yet the majority of my other classmates continued to pay attention

nonchalantly, as if the woman didn't just let one loose!

The only person whose face seemed to share my disbelief 

was one of the students who had just added the class.

He happened to be sitting right next to my professor,

and contained himself while putting his head down. lol

I waited for her to at least say "Excuse me,"

or even lie and say it was her shoe or the whiteboard marker....

but she just continued rambling on like her gassy mishap was non-existent.

What a way to start off the week. lol

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH

While I'm sure most people spent New Years Day sleeping in 

or recovering from the previous night's hangover, I was at Disneyland! lol

It's been about a year since I've last made my way to Mickey and Minnie's humble abode....

and before that, not since my high school grad night back in '07.

My sisters and I had park hopper passes, courtesy of my grandma's generous Christmas spirit.

And after tackling Disney's California Adventure {referenced as DCA by some visitors we ran into},

we spent the remainder of the day at Disneyland.

We rode as many rides as possible, watched the Christmas parade, 

& seen Captain EO {which I hadn't seen since I was a kid!} 

I did grow to become annoyed by all of the untamed kids 

that were running all over the place like headless chickens,

and have a newfound appreciation for kiddie leashes. lol

Though I'm confident I won't have to use them for my {future} kids, 

I think they are an excellent tool for everyone else's. hahah

But aside from the menacing tiny tots,

we had a blast. :)