22 May, 2008
Fat Fashion Thursday - The Bachelorette Party

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. After many, many requests for fat bridalish inspiration, I decided to do a small series. Shower, bachelorette, and rehearsal dinner. Here’s the bachelorette party! Personally, I am wearing PJs to mine, because we’re having a middle school-style sleepover (this Saturday! can’t wait!) at Michelle’s house. But this is what I’d wear if we were going out. Love this sexy yet not fussy top, blingy gold jewelry and how many times do I have to tell y’all Apple Bottoms are my favorite jeans? I am LOVING this big oversized clutch in the dégradé, and not patent leather, so yay for that. Comes in five colors too, I’m seriously tempted to buy one. I rarely match bag to shoes but hey, why not this time? The heels are just enough to give you some height but wide enough to not kill your feet if you end up on a dance floor. This outfit turned out way different than my original concept which was really monochromatic and very city chic. Feedback is welcome, not sure what y’all would think of this!

• Sweet Pea by Stacy Frati Ruched Mesh Top
• Apple Bottoms Big Apple Pocket Jeans
• Juicy Couture ‘Status’ Pavé Heart Locket Necklace & Buckle Bracelet
• MAXX NEW YORK ‘Thompson - Dégradé’ Pleated Clutch (LOVE!!! Especially in blue.)
• Pink Studio Orange Margaret Peep Toe Heels

15 May, 2008
Fat Fashion Thursday - The Shower

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. After many, many requests for fat bridalish inspiration, I decided to do a small series. Shower, bachelorette, and rehearsal dinner. Watch for those coming up! I will not be doing one on fat wedding dresses because I believe if you’re fat and getting married you should be getting your dress custom-made! A big post on that coming soon as well. Here’s my take on something fun to wear to your shower. I wore a strapless, tie-front, patterned print black and white jersey dress with a big mustard-colored scarf, bold jewelry and silver sandals. But here’s another option.

• Orla Tunic Dress at B & Lu
• Peacock Bangle from UO
• Carnelian Lucky Hoop Disk Earrings by Allyson Smith
• Cypress Hill Mod Bag by Matt & Nat
• Long Layered Chain Necklace by Old Navy
• Gizeh Metallic Bronze sandals by Birkenstock
• Vintage Round Frame Sunglasses in Havana by Ray-Ban

02 May, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Untitled, 2. Owl and Solomon’s Seal, 3. bittersweet, 4. more spinning, 5. Lazy day., 6. my.drawing.room, 7. My Little Troublemaker, 8. +, 9. fatty, 10. april 26, 2008, 11. California Clementines, 12. let sleeping dogs lie, 13. breakfast outside, 14. Untitled, 15. My New Addiction, 16. the view, 17. Untitled, 18. 24 april., 19. Untitled, 20. Pretty in Pink, 21. 111/366, 22. left on ocean avenue, 23. short term memory loss, 24. Lichen Cowl, 25. happy humping ollie, 26. Take a peak, 27. Untitled, 28. and you close your eyes, 29. Stories to be told…., 30. the energizer, 31. browns and blues, 32. Untitled, 33. Caramel Macchiato Cheesecake, 34. Red and Purple Anemones, 35. over the stove, 36. Untitled

18 April, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Packed weekend! My brother is helping me build a box for my garden, I’m trying to visit the Fred Heutte Center for a plant sale, my friend Sarah’s getting married AND it’s the Spring Bada Bing! Whew! What are y’all up to?

1. Ribbon and Trim, 2. Sewing thread hues, 3. carnage, 4. 17 april., 5. Cooking. 1, 6. waffles, 7. pink blossoms, 8. california poppy love, 9. tell me a secret…, 10. I hate this, 11. No Knead Bread, 12. 103/366, 13. spools, 14. cherryblossoms, 15. Baby Nectarines, 16. Tostones, 17. i heart mail, 18. toadstool, 19. 97/366, 20. darla and monty, 21. hello!, 22. Tulips, 23. this way to the orange line, 24. Chou-Fleur, 25. it really is

04 April, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. SF view, 2. tinkerbell, 3. Desire is hunger is the fire I breathe, 4. Seedlings Overnight, 5. pointing the wrong way, 6. death to the easter bunny., 7. American Gothic remixed, 8. peach tree pretty, 9. wannabe macarons, 10. like jawbreakers, 11. Wish, 12. four years, 13. one.dress.finished, 14. early.morning.sewing, 15. posies, 16. breakfast for lunch

14 March, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Another week gone! Hope to have a weekend full of yardwork, being outdoors, knitting and cuddling with dog and/or boy. How about y’all?

1. this was a cute photo, 2. Untitled, 3. golden, 4. control, 5. wavy waves, 6. hell yeah. 200:365, 7. tabletop, 8. picnic, 9. Untitled, 10. new blue, 11. Skies of blue, 12. fresh, 13. santa monica grass, 14. a start, 15. a pefect day/um dia perfeito, 16. 66/366, 17. bronte-girl, 18. A Plate of Tomato, 19. salad bowl garden, 20. Flowers, 21. an oldie, 22. cuppa, 23. Happy Friday!, 24. Miffy and Charlotte 2, 25. Violet’s hunting the elusive button on my coat.

07 March, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

I had big plans for tomorrow, starting seedlings for my vegetable garden, building the boxes that will house them, filling them up with rich earth, and now it’s supposed to be thunderstorms all day long. Foiled again! I still plan on seed starting (indoors!) and getting those boxes built, I’ll just have to do it in my mom’s garage. What do you guys have planned for the weekend?

1. Violet’s hunting the elusive button on my coat., 2. Dining Room Hutch, 3. debutante, 4. :chilli string:, 5. my little workspace, 6. velveteen birdie, 7. like stepping stones, 8. moving this and that around, 9. daffs #1, 10. koolhaas detail, 11. GHETTO BLASTER, 12. flea market loot from today, 13. a twirl with ‘tude, 14. Necklace collection, 15. Untitled, 16. peas, 17. bunny foofoo feet, 18. nostalgia, 19. *, 20. pretty popovers, 21. Spunky Eclectic mini skeins, 22. alice in wonderland cupcakes, 23. what could be better than a box full of vintage animals?, 24. Misfit Bunny, 25. Whiskey Fiddleheads, 26. red wreath, 27. Untitled, 28. Dreadie Updo back, 29. izze, 30. First flowers of spring from the front yard, 31. Blossom, 32. simple preggy lunch, 33. Waterboy, 34. shu shu, 35. Untitled, 36. Crochet workshop

22 February, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. wicked begins again, 2. Untitled, 3. cookie suckers, 4. 50/366, 5. DSC_4034.jpg, 6. Raisin Wich, 7. Mushrooms and robots., 8. mom’s color scheme, 9. cereal makes a nice lunch sometimes, 10. rubber band ball progress, 11. Lola and the Tulips, 12. Cut ribbons, 13. 0240, 14. Untitled, 15. my new loves., 16. Organised trim.

15 February, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

I feel like Friday Flickr Favorites are all I ever post anymore! Sorry! This weekend is gonna be great, tonight I am spring cleaning, followed by more cleaning, organizing and yard work tomorrow (and starting to prep for my garden!), then Sunday is the Norfolk Craft Mafia learn-to-crochet workshop and then Monday (I’m off work!) Tasha and I are getting together for a knitting/Project Runway marathon. Woo! What are you guys up to this weekend?

01 February, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Ugh, what a week! I’ve been mad busy at work, at home, at everything! Life these days is just wedding planning, yoga, bike riding, working, hanging with Jimmy and the beast dog. I’m gonna do some wedding updates soon! We’re getting a lot of details nailed down.

1. is for etsy!, 2. palette, 3. boquet, 4. CTA kills…, 5. Paper Cloud Onionpods Pillow, 6. orange pyrex bowl in winter light, 7. you’ve got to be kidding me, 8. peg rail, 9. Chocolate Covered Strawberry Sachets, 10. lovely.finds, 11. grapefruit, 12. The day after, 13. DSC03377, 14. 239/365: The riot in my heart, 15. Lemon Rolls with Rosewater Filling, 16. Jonathan Adler Vase, 17. Angry Gull, 18. Victim., 19. pouty Boss, 20. And some of this…, 21. Little Beach, 22. A bit of this…, 23. new shoes, 24. IMG_1168, 25. my desk today

25 January, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Ode to Rice Pudding, 2. I should never have listened to her,” he confided to me one day, “One should never listen to the flowers. One should simply look at them and breathe their fragrance, 3. red hush puppies, 4. backwards, 5. Grandpa Cardboard’s Mushroom Basket, 6. i heart samples, 7. 56, 8. My Second Purse, Detail, 9. daydreaming, 10. Made With FontFont, 11. Archers Promo, 12. Coming Soon to SqueakyMonkey, 13. Sugar Sugar, 14. pacman and cherry cupcakes, 15. DSC_0004, 16. Untitled, 17. stripes, 18. hat, 19. more kitchen, 20. january 18, 2008

18 January, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Headed up to Fairfax to spend a weekend with my best girl Genevieve! I hear there’s a dusting of snow up there, yay! Going shopping, getting a facial for the first time and getting serious skincare advice from my favorite esthetician. Have a good weekend you guys!

1. george bush eats eggs, 2. Time for Pancakes!, 3. Mr. Monster Mouth, 4. Suzi, 5. Green Tea Cupcakes, 6. 11/366, 7. Christmas is over, 8. nutmeg muffins, 9. Rasberry & Wild Roses Jam Toast, 10. tea party, 11. DSC_dk0005, 12. 77:365 Two Tutu’s, 2x the fun, 13. coconut ice, 14. Caramel Lust Breakfast, 15. man chair, 16. orange, 17. blue, 18. sweet potato pumpkin sweets, 19. Dandy Lion, 20. Velocouture+Wardrobe Remix Day 103, 21. Ben’s selection, 22. blooming. 141:365, 23. 13/366, 24. claire, 25. SAGER, 26. more kitchen, 27. GRIZLEY, 28. 1.12.2008, 29. AREBA, 30. 12/366, 31. SAGER, 32. My new bike, 33. The party’s over, 34. desk organizer 03, 35. Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, 36. the items we carry.

17 January, 2008
Fat Fashion Thursday - Knocked Up Edition

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. A while back my friend Joanna asked me to do a Fat Fashion Thursday on maternity looks for the big girls (and maybe things that would also work on a post-preggo body you aren’t used to yet). I’m a little late since Milo Bear has been crawling around for a few weeks now, but better late than never?

Searching for plus size maternity clothing turned up some very scary stuff. So for those of us that don’t want to look like we kidnapped and skinned an entire cheetah, lumberjack or Hawaiian tour guide, I’ve come up with a couple looks.

These are pretty versatile and should have enough belly room to get you through the third trimester as well as covering up any new bumps or lumps you aren’t so crazy about after you pop out the kid. I’ve also included a watch and a “diaper bag” for each look. The bags are versatile enough to carry them anywhere, kid or not and the watches – well it just occurs to me that moms are busy ladies who need watches. If you’re plus sized and have gotten knocked up, congratulations and get thee to a JC Penney, who had the most non-frightening plus size maternity everything.

Just because you’re pregnant and the vultures are eyeballing your office like crazy doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be on point with your outfits at work. This will be way comfortable but still have you looking snazzy. Old Navy’s maternity line goes up to XXL, which fits hips up to 51 inches. I started fitting into their XXL clothes when I got down to a size 20, so that’s an option for some smaller plus chicas. These Maternity low-rise stretch twill pants ($33) are really versatile and look downright comfy. Top that with the Dinah Top ($41) which has an elastic empire waist, which works on most bodies before during and after pregnancy. On the feets? Lela Rose for Payless Cavalry Flats ($30 on sale $20) are super cute in a gold brocade fabric. Accessorize with these dazzling Chandelier Earrings ($13) and elegant yet cheeky Michael Kors Charm Bracelet Watch ($225). This Padded Laptop Tote ($69) comes in a ton of different fabrics and is handmade and SUPER high quality. I own one of these and I highly recommend it, whether you are toting books, a laptop or stuff for the kiddo.

You know you’re gonna be forced to attend a baby shower or two now that you’ve made all your friends come to yours. Dress to kill! How about these Bisou Bisou® Maternity Dark Denim Pants ($44), you’ve got the comfort of jeans but the lines of something more sophisticated. Top that with a duo Maternity Short Sleeve Tie-back Top ($40) which will be perfect whether you’re with child or not since it’s adjustable. Throw this a.n.a. maternity sateen jacket ($64) over that and it really polishes the look. Pear-shaped girls, keep this jacket around after the kid arrives, they are a super flattering shape on us. This is so clever, a Marc Jacobs Red Cherries Necklace Watch ($150) which takes care of two accessories in one. Repeat that patent red shine in these Jill Kitten Heels ($20) which are super comfortable (I own a pair) and are available in wide widths too. Carry this Large Messenger Undiaper Bag ($75) and you’ll be set for pretty much any situation. It’s also custom made to order and there are tons of fabrics to choose from!

Okay so just because you have “that glow” doesn’t mean people are going to fall all over themselves to run errands for you (unfortunately) so here’s an outfit for running about town. These jeans seem pretty cool: duo Maternity Fold-Over Panel Jeans ($48 on sale $35). It has a fold-over panel which allows you to decide your fit: over-the-belly, fold once for mid-rise comfort or fold twice for low-rise. Sweet! This non-maternity-but-with-plenty-o-room Necessary Objects banded-bottom top ($40) in a subtle metallic gold will nicely showcase the Vintage Typewriter Key Pendant ($14) on a long chain. I just got a pair of these Champion Revolution Sneakers ($28 on sale $17) and they are super comfortable and cute. I also think this MARC BY MARC JACOBS Big Resin Cuff Watch ($150) is so fun and such an eye-grabber. The real star of this outfit though is the somewhat stupidly-named Diaper Dude ($55) (supposedly named because your man won’t be embarrassed to carry it) but you don’t want some pastel, quilted thing either so sling this across your chest and get going.

11 January, 2008
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Happy Friday everyone!

1. Beach Jumper, 2. Graffiti by King of Kowloon, 3. Vegetable Gyoza, 4. fancy fryes, 5. Untitled, 6. New Handmade Apron, 7. that’s better., 8. Westport Bike, 9. Jukebox, 10. Sixth and last session!, 11. Sparkle, 12. grouch, 13. All that no-one sees……, 14. Canoes in lotus yoga, 15. How fast you want to go?, 16. Under the Covers, 17. clementines, 18. Juicer, 19. Christmas Rice Pudding, 20. Muglicious, 21. Collective Effervescence, 22. Eames Rocker for the baby’s room, 23. 7/366, 24. Bookshelf, 25. 39, 26. DSC03355, 27. ripple swatch, 28. Delish Pear Jam Breakfast, , 30. squeaks, 31. Living Room Rug, 32. some things on the kitchen shelves, 33. Pecan Sandies, 34. we made bagels., 35. 1.2.2008, 36. a redhead’s tan = darker freckles

10 January, 2008
Fat Fashion Thursday - We’re back!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. Back by popular demand! Got inspired by some new stuff on the Nordstrom site and went from there. Hope you enjoy!

Who said bling can’t be chic? Super stylish with black and gray, and bold pops of color to set you apart. Top Svoboda Five Pocket Stretch Jeans ($128) with a Pleated Babydoll ($32) in a super-gorgeous kelly green and finish it off with the Svoboda ‘Natasha’ Knit Jacket ($158). Slide on some Groove Tender shoes ($32 on sale $15) and jazz up the whole look with metallics: Lily Earrings ($12) and a bejeweled Steve Madden Adora clutch ($58).

It’s been unseasonably warm here, which is making me yearn for knit dresses without tights. Spring is on the way (hurry up)! I just love the pattern and color in this Rachel Pally White Label Shirred Waist Tank Dress ($228). The shirred Empire waist is super flattering and gives you that structure up top while the skirt below is draped and easy to cover anything you feel iffy about. Throw a Freestyle Revolution Elvis Wash Denim Jean Jacket ($64 on sale $48) over it to keep away any chill and slide the super-comfortable Nine West Denham flats ($73) on your feet. I can totally see myself at the farmers market in this outfit, so why not carry a Marc by Marc Jacobs Standard Supply big tote ($148), big enough for whatever goodies you come across. With all the bold color everywhere else, I think clear accessories are the order here. How about a Clear bead & link bracelet ($9) and a Clear chunky bead necklace ($12) to finish it all up.

Meeting the parents for the first time? Got a lunch meeting with that new executive? Just feeling extra-sassy? This outfit can’t help but be taken seriously. The star piece is this Robbie Bee Circles Charmeuse Shirtdress ($88) which is perfectly cinched at the waist with adorable sleeve detail. Grab this awesome Queen handbag ($135 on sale $81) by Matt & Nat and throw on a pair of bold Kailey Patent Pumps ($20) for some serious appeal. For accessories it’s all about simple, gorgeous luxury. Green jewelry like this David Yurman Olive Quartz Cushion cocktail ring ($2100) and these Ippolita Green-Gold Topaz drop earrings ($890) are sure to make everyone you come across green with envy.

14 December, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

This weekend will be :: grocery shopping :: cookie baking :: present wrapping :: dog snuggling :: more Christmas present crafting :: post office trip :: fancy cocktail party for work :: possibly fancy restaurant after!

1. Untitled, 2. christmas/natal, 3. Christmas Gifts 2006, 4. Untitled, 5. Untitled, 6. Untitled, 7. peppermint brownies, 8. Holiday Card 2007, 9. pink, 10. kermit and pink cupcake, 11. Christmas ball., 12. 13, 13. 006_6, 14. 010_10, 15. 007_7, 16. one hundred and sixty eight, 17. The Whole Litter, 18. shelves and stuff, 19. Go team, 20. you’re the cream in my coffee, 21. ginger tea bread in progress, 22. IMG_5568, 23. christmas cookies 268, 24. 9, 25. Adam, 26. Linen Yarn Porn, 27. left as it fell, 28. cleaning up, 29. stacking, 30. The Tree’s Up

07 December, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Really looking forward to this weekend! Working on Christmas gifts for family and friends, getting my (wedding) save the date cards ready to send out, cooking dinner for friends who are helping get said cards ready on Saturday night, maybe seeing some Christmas lights with Jimmy, hanging with my family on Sunday and the Craft Mafia Holiday Party too! Should be awesome!

1. A cup of bokeh, 2. christmas cookies 018, 3. Gingerbread Snowflakes, 4. christmas cookies 041, 5. getting crafty, 6. Holiday ornament - sent; group 10, 7. snow, 8. puffy owl, 9. Williamsburg Pottery, 10. Yankee Candle, 11. One Pillow, 12. Untitled, 13. Festivity, 14. Untitled, 15. Lone Petal, 16. Jerry’s, 17. 4, 18. maine morning mitts, 19. Pomegranate Aftermath, 20. To Thine Own Self Be True, 21. scenes from a Sunday breakfast, 22. Elf Maggie, Santa’s Little Helper, 23. sunday moorning/domingo de manhã, 24. loquats, persimmon, pear, 25. hibiscus acclimating

30 November, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Black Bunny Cardigans at SqueakyMonkey, 2. Yvestown Christmas Giveaway!, 3. Red Velveteen Capelet with Houndstooth Blouse, 4. lingonberry & ricotta crepe, 5. 28 november., 6. Orange Cranberry Bread, 7. Christmas Flying, 8. Studio Organization, 9. birthday flowers on my desk, 10. trees and birds, 11. the things I find in my husband’s trench coat pockets…, 12. Winter’s offering, 13. Smack, 14. Time To Decorate, 15. Gingerbread House, 16. Allsorts Elf Clogs, 17. candy card, 18. pinned, 19. Forearm : Octopus, Completed, 20. gigantor orla kiely bag, 21. island of misfit toys, 22. Stuff in my new kitchen shelf aka kitchen kitsch, 23. look at it wiggle, 24. baby lambs!, 25. Olivia’s new jeans

16 November, 2007
So glad it’s Friday (Flickr Favorites)!

1. Cupcake Love, 2. Day 292/365…….me and Springer, 3. Standing Under the Flame Tree Looking Up, 4. Cupcake for One (That Would Be Me!), 5. super mario cupcakes 0862, 6. cherry blossom cupcakes 048 _2, 7. peppermint colors, 8. Spiekermann House Numbers, 9. Yummy Decole, 10. Vintage Royal Typewriter Ad, 11. 005_5, 12. 004_4, 13. 011_11, 14. for felt club, 15. pressed argentine flowers, 16. Strawberries and Cream blouse, 17. The heart dies a slow death, shedding each hope like leaves. Until one day there are none, 18. 006_6, 19. mushroom forest, 20. felt necklace 1c

15 November, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday - Igigi Dress Review!

Well, I’m bummed! Let me elaborate. My friend Nicole (who is also shooting our wedding) took some photos of me in my kitchen for a fashion assignment, sort of a retro meets edgy thing, and I was all set to give you a real life “I bought these clothes and here’s what I think” review. But now! The dress is no longer being sold on Igigi’s site! What a bummer! It was on there mere weeks ago!

So, I’ll still review the dress, but it’s really cruel of me to do so. Because it’s fabulous and also you can’t buy it anymore. What can I say? C’est la vie. (Also these photos are terrific, Nicole is an amazing photographer. You really need to see them big to do them justice, so click on them to view full size in flickr.)

So, the dress. I paid $106 for the dress. The sizing on their site runs true to size, from my experience. This dress (and shrug) are made of a gorgeous red/polka dot matte jersey. It feels so luxurious and is SO comfortable at the same time, best of all it never wrinkles. It’s also fully lined.

The shape of this dress is what drew me in. If you are pear shaped, I can’t recommend this type of structure highly enough. You want something fitted through the chest (and it never hurts to show off your very hot décolletage), with the garment being most closely fitted just under the bustline, then flowing out over your waist and hips. This emphasizes the narrowest part of you and creates an hourglass shape with the waist definition ending up just north of your natural waist.

This is a great trick for ALL body types but especially for us bigger girls, it’s structure structure STRUCTURE that we need! The same effect can be achieved with a blazer that’s nipped in at the waist or a button-down blouse with strategically placed darts. Beware of those loosey goosey babydoll type shirts. You need actual structure and fitted-ness around your ribcage. If the fabric starts flowing all over the place right under your boobs, it can make you appear pregnant.

Sorry I don’t have a photo of the dress without the shrug, but the straps are substantial enough that you can wear a good, supportive bra with it. The shrug is nice because it stays put, it’s plain and it covers you up in case of a chill or any arm weirdness you might not feel the greatest about.

I’d highly advise buying this dress if you can find it, especially my pear shaped sisters. If not, might I recommend some others from Igigi with a similar shape? (Also, I realize Igigi can be pricey but their quality is impeccable. I expect the dresses I’ve bought from there to last many years.)

• Wear the Siren Dress in Red ($160) to your office holiday party and you won’t soon be forgotten. I love the velvet waistband. Comes in other colors too.
• The Lace short Dress with Shrug ($175 on sale $140) has a gorgeous lace overlay and comes with a lacy shrug that I’m sure would be really versatile.
• I’ve written about the Sarafan with Ties in Magenta ($105 on sale $42!!) before, and I’ll point to it again. Great color payoff.
• Finally, this Exquisite Evening Gown in Blue/Magenta ($189) is sure to turn heads. Seems very Grecian to me. Nice wide, bra-friendly straps, too. I could totally see Queen Latifah rocking this on the red carpet.

So there’s my real life recommendation for some fabulous clothes. Sorry you can’t actually buy them! Oh, and for those of you who keep bugging me to post pictures of my tattoo, well, there’s most of it. (PS the shoes are Steve Madden)

*edited to add* Look! I’m a wardrobe_remixer of the week! So cool!

09 November, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Leaves, 2. Reddy Ice, 3. My yellow Unazukin, 4. Peanut Butter Granola Bars, 5. My Hometown: The Donut Shop - Natchez, MS, 6. official halloween 2k7 pic!!!, 7. purple potatoes, 8. +2, 9. (Real) Maple Yum Breakfast, 10. run run as fast as you can, 11. Ornament: Merry (front), 12. the button, 13. Day 284/365…….just me and my happy juice, 14. stone fruit still life, 15. big leaf, little paw, 16. ATELIER XT 2008 christmas tree/árvore de natal do ATELIER XT para 2008

02 November, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Untitled, 2. fairytale world, 3. pumpkins earings, 4. Apple-Pumpkin Spice Oat Pancakes, 5. Sewing Spot, 6. my magnet collection, 7. Mantle Asylum (1), 8. Day 3 of Dia de los Muertos Baking, 9. Orange waffles with orange sauce, 10. Joni’s Fluffy Omelet, 11. Day 3 of Dia de los Muertos Baking, 12. Blueberry Waffles with Lemon Icing, 13. Yellow, 14. chanel cupcake, 15. Pig&monkey bento box, 16. R.I.P, 17. beet ravioli, 18. frosty, 19. detail, 20. the day after, 21. gray pumps, 22. Last of the pimping, 23. Pumpkin Lantern, 24. Chocolate cupcake filled with Peanut Butter Caramel & topped with Chocolate Ganache!, 25. Pumpkin Cakes

01 November, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday - Ride it!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. Sort of.

This post was inevitable, though perhaps less fashiony than the usual (not so frequent lately, sorry) Fat Fashion Thursday posts. I figured since I’m commuting by bike now I’d share what’s been working for me clothing-wise.

Donning lycra and a helmet and gallavanting around town might sound like just about the most uncool thing since stirrup pants and a side-ponytail, but trust me, if you’re riding 18 miles per day it’s a hell of a lot better than the fierce chafing you’d receive in street clothes. Two outfits today. One is my pretty much daily riding outfit. The top changes depending on the weather (it’s getting colder) but I actually own all this gear so I can give it an honest evaluation. The other is for the less than stellar days when stuff decides to fall from the sky. Shall we?

Oh, one more thing before the clothes: Support your local bike shops! Before you order something online, why not give them a call and see if they can order it for you? Locally, I highly recommend BikeBeat (ask for David), Conte’s or East Coast Bicycles.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Active, hot, curvy women the world over would do well buying a pair of Women’s Workout Capris by Moving Comfort ($42). I love these. They’re sleek, supportive and are the perfect thing for riding in the fall. If only they made these padded around the girly bits, they would be perfect. I usually throw on some sort of technical fabric t-shirt like the Moving Comfort Ventus Tee ($38 on sale $33) which keeps you cool (or warm) by wicking away sweat. It’s darn comfy too.

On the feet goes some variation of running socks plus these Shimano SH-MT31 shoes ($65). Why special bike riding shoes? The bottom is inflexible and really makes a difference on how your feet feel (comfort vs. pain after a few miles of hard pumping). Walking feels a little funny at first though. On the hands go some Trek WSD Club Gloves ($15) which are padded on the palms to make you impervious to all the vibration your poor hands will be subjected to. I hate riding without gloves unless it’s less than a mile. Mine are chartreuse green to match my Giro Indicator Helmet ($35). Yes, helmets are about the dorkiest-looking thing out and they make your head sweat, but I figure it’s a lot better to look dorky while riding than look brain-damaged or dead when you fall off. Please wear a helmet, kids.

Last but not least I love my Sigg Water Bottle ($19). Besides being environmentally friendly and reusable, it doesn’t make your water taste like plastic and it’s sturdy as can be. I dropped mine this morning going about 23mph coming off the Granby St. bridge and just about ran over it. Just a few scratches. I know the plastic bottles I used to use would have cracked right open. Check these bottles out, they have tons of awesome designs, you’re sure to find one you’ll like.

If it’s raining out and your commute is more than a few minutes you pretty much have three choices. 1) Wear breathable, water-resistant clothes and get wet from the rain. 2) Wear waterproof clothes and get wet from your sweat. 3) Drive.

I choose number one. If it’s warm out, I don’t really bother with rain stuff. If it’s cold, then I’m putting on my Sugoi Zap Bike Jacket ($90). I love this jacket because it’s windproof and does a heck of a job resisting a lot of water. It also looks snappy and has a ton of reflective strips on it for maximum visibility. Comes in pretty colors too. Pair this with some Coolweather Tights ($90) which aren’t water resistant at all but have lots of other great qualities like keeping your girly bits happy with a nice padded area and keeping you really warm by wicking water & sweat away. You also wanna wear something under the jacket and while it’s been too warm to do a serious base layer yet, I think the Sugoi Midzero Zip base layer ($75) would be great when it gets below 40ish. You’re also gonna want a pair of SealSkinz Waterproof Gloves ($33) and SealSkinz WaterBlocker socks ($40) to keep you dry as possible. If you’re lucky like me, you have a shower at work and a shower after riding in the rain is just about the best feeling ever. If not, well, get under that hand-dryer and get to work, missy.

26 October, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Portia’s Gift, 2. Little Feet, 3. shoe want, 4. Rainbows, 5. raw autumn roll, 6. Peanut Butter Cup Innards, 7. _ANM0067-3, 8. _ANM0098, 9. downtown, 10. leaves, 11. mango feathered facinator, 12. Vegan Meringue: Success, 13. mini pumpkins, 14. hot & cold drinks, 15. loose ends, 16. Untitled, 17. gypsy rose, 18. ornament, 19. roots, 20. cranes by computer light, 21. there’s no “i” in Artesia, 22. markers and a moleskine, 23. Never Ever Skip Dessert!, 24. It’s finally your birthday!, 25. Blue on my desk

05 October, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. “With Quiet Words I’ll Lead You In”, 2. Thrifted shelf with vintage thread and buttons, 3. Untitled, 4. pezi, 5. Let Them Eat Cake., 6. s o f t . t r e e, 7. rewind-button, 8. Fantom Bohus Yoke, 9. pencils as color wheel, 10. pink and brown, 11. Dots Of Flowers, 12. Vanity = Peacock, 13. Flicker falls down, 14. Saartje’s Bootees, 15. kippy, 16. Plush You, 17. 365 day 124: NEVER miss dessert ;), 18. Pez!, 19. RATHER BE DEAD, 20. Baked Apples, 21. garland, 22. Balloon signage, 23. Amber & Amanda, 24. Party Time, 25. Untitled, 26. O.M.G - I am even brighter than the fire hydrant!, 27. Feet in the Village, 28. crochet baby 3, 29. EggplantRollatini, 30. Muffalatta, 31. PastaCalifornia, 32. Smlove, 33. cholent2, 34. PotatoKaleEnchiladas, 35. Waffles, 36. ArtichokePestoLinguine

04 October, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday - To the Opera!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. Only one look this week, but one is better than none! I’m going to see one of my favorite authors, David Sedaris (holy cow, why don’t you have a website, must get on this) on Sunday, and it’s being held at Chrysler Hall, home of fancy concerts and operas. I asked Cassie if that meant we had to get all gussied up opera-style, and while she said she doubted it very much, I started to wonder what my opera outfit would look like. Well here we go!

The foundation for this look is the JS Boutique Beaded Mesh Dress ($158). This color is such a statement, yet it’s muted enough to look great on a variety of skintones, plus you get to show off your terrific décolletage. A winner. On your feet are gray satin (two trends I back) Ashley Pumps ($36) with a stacked heel that won’t make these babies impossible to walk in. How about some handmade accessories with this look? I hit up Etsy for a Black and White Clutch ($45) with a gorgeous brocade fabric and an unforgettable pair of Lady Madonna earrings ($75). Top that off with a sassy Betsey Johnson Sequined Bangle ($35) and this smart little Jewel Cluster cocktail ring ($10) and you are so ready for a night on the town.

01 October, 2007
Friday (Monday?) Flickr Favorites

I hope y’all will cut me some slack and just look at these pretty pictures while I recover from yesterday. Don’t get me wrong, Crafty Bastards itself was a wonderful show, and we had a great day, but other than that the day was a disaster. I was an hour and a half late waking up in the morning, and the drive home from DC took over SEVEN HOURS. I never want to drive again.

1. birds, 2. holiday card, 3. squash me, 4. Shoot ‘Em Up, 5. lacey and mauvey, 6. little bird: quality control inspector, 7. Batina in Blanki Blue, 8. STEEL, 9. APEX, 10. bartlett, 11. cupcake, 12. wounded, out of the hospital and standing upright, 13. Untitled, 14. Peças únicas! 3, 15. Cones, 16. Bun Out of the Oven, 17. tea, 18. 44320004.jpg, 19. 44330022.jpg, 20. Lotus at the Pond., 21. Sweet Sixteen party, 22. sparkler, 23. Cupcake, 24. Lurkers, 25. pigeon, 26. toadstool tops, 27. A quilt for Henry, 28. Cupcakes, 29. Small bunny bowl, 30. DSC_0258, 31. Chili Lime Tempeh, Roasted Potatoes, Pistachio Mole, 32. bird, 33. mesh sculptures, 34. dolmas and mini-peppers, 35. Emily the Hobo, 36. pumpkin head

27 September, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. Here’s a few more looks for fall!

I’d love to wear something like this to class. Casual, fun and a great mix of color, texture and quirky details. Start off with the Lions are smarter than I am Tshirt ($15) from Threadless on top with a pair of Renee Straight Leg Jeans ($118) on your butt. This Double-Breasted Twill Coat from Alloy is 20% off and goes up to a 3x! Can’t go wrong with gray this fall. For your feet, try this Shiloh Cuff Low Boot ($35 on sale $25) from Payless, which is seriously comfortable and buttery soft. I’m so glad I got a pair (they are also available in wide widths! Throw in a mix of textures accessory-wise with a smart, shiny Patent Grommet Shopper in red ($48 on sale $30) and an adorable Love ring ($16). Polish off the look with some Twisted Balloon Hoops ($18) and you’re all set!

This look is a little punk rock, a little sophistication to me. I love this Lurex Mix Jumper (£28) for a great blank canvas that you can jazz up with some serious accessorizing. How about a Zebra Gem Ring ($24) and Layered Heart Necklace ($28) with some big ol’ 3.5” gold hoops ($5). I just love tights. They’re the only thing that make me wear above-the-knee skirts, and I think they can jazz up an otherwise boring outfit. Here’s some solid color tights in royal blue ($9) from We Love Colors, who offers a ton of sassy plus-sized hosiery. I also like DKNY colored tights, which go up to a generous size large. Finish this look off with two trends I’m seeing all over the place, patent and quilting. Serious luxury in these Stella McCartney crackle patent wedges ($745) and totally awesome No. 252 Diamond Quilted Tote ($38) in patent berry.

Go ‘head Apple Bottoms, this dress is straight up sassy! ($88 on sale $66) I love houndstooth and I’m seeing it everywhere for fall. This oversized print is perfect, and in a wrap dress too! This outfit would bring some serious glamour to work. After trying about 20 different combinations, I decided I love a matching bag and shoes for this look. How about a red patent Croc Minaudiere clutch ($69) and Nine West Faythe shoes ($79 on sale $70). Accessorize with two great pieces from Juicy Couture’s “Dirty Glam” collection (love them, love that name!): “Dirty Glam” Bracelet ($128) and Earrings ($68) and this Dominique Cohen Chain Necklace with Bow Pendant ($35) to finish things off.

14 September, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites

Hey sorry about yesterday’s lack of fashiony goodness, I was/am kind of in a funk over the fact that I’m having to stop running again because I’ve developed full-on plantar fasciitis in my foot and running is really aggravating an injury to the knee in the same leg, and I’m tired of hobbling around everywhere. It doesn’t hurt while I run, mind you, only all the OTHER hours of the day.

Anyhow, it’s just making me angry. DO WHAT I WANT YOU TO DO, BODY. Ugh. Anyhow here are some pretty pictures to look at! (PS anyone know why the flickr toys thing doesn’t pick up some of the favorites - it left out two this time?)

1. dolmas and mini-peppers, 2. Emily the Hobo, 3. pumpkin head, 4. Christopher Elbow chocolates, 5. Girl Dog, 6. Clownfish at Koh Bon Island, 7. indigo owl, 8. Three Apples, 9. pointy toed sneakers, 10. +, 11. overflow, 12. plush Xylophone, 13. bountiful, 14. Picture 059, 15. SHIRO, 16. seventy five, 17. orla shopping bag, 18. Treehouses - Letterpress card, 19. SHIRO MERES SEREL, 20. loitering, 21. carmel apples, 22. kindergarten tomorrow, 23. Untitled, 24. Monkey faces Bento, 25. last-minute patchwork + quilted gifts, 26. Present Cupcakes, 27. more cupcakes.., 28. Vintage House Illustration & Doll Clothespins, 29. Amigurumi Owl, 30. Kara’s Cupcakes, 31. horsefly, 32. Masferrer_perro2, 33. The Final Circle, 34. Life Imitating Art, 35. heavenly bandit, 36. Angler fish

07 September, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites

1. heavenly bandit, 2. Angler fish, 3. Explode of rainbow wold.(This is my wold), 4. Mushroom / Fungi # 1 / Flammulina Populicola, 5. Crayons Taste Yummy…..And Are Good For You, Too!, 6. low below a cow, 7. Sliding down, 8. Llantos de pretensión, 9. In motion!, 10. trio, 11. Faked Geisha, 12. Red umbrella, 13. Troubled Teen, 14. grilled eggplant napoleon, 15. ah shucks!, 16. raw corn cake stack and heirloom tomatoes with basil and pine nut mayonnaise, 17. Untitled, 18. a fabric tower, 19. Untitled, 20. Untitled, 21. getting organized, 22. Wiggins Longstocking, 23. Untitled, 24. sabine, 25. papa tomato, 26. nomiconcoveroutline, 27. Exotic Flower 1, 28. summer dinner, 29. Day 327, 30. SqueakyMonkey in Haute Doll PDF, 31. ピカチュウ Pikachu bento 8-30-07, 32. thai patchwork bag, 33. Choccy Cake I, 34. Side Pocket Tote Bags, 35. patchwork birds, 36. hello in there

06 September, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories!

I can’t help myself. I just love this look and it picks up a few of the fall trends too. Start off with this Naomi Olive Embroidered Tunic Top (£40.00) in 100% modal with adorable bib detailing. Pair it with a classic – Svoboda Simone Straight Leg Jeans ($118) to show off your figure in the best way possible. On your feet, these Corbusier Grey Sandals (£70.00) paired with a smart Black Soiree Drawstring bag ($198) by Crystalyn Kae, whose glaze-coated fabric technique produces something that looks amazingly like leather, and it’s big enough to hold whatever you’re toting around these days. For jewelry, I simply love the new Dominique Cohen for Target collection. Try this 3-Strand Pearl Tie Necklace ($60) and Multi-Ring Faux Pearl Drop Earrings ($18) to complete the look.

This look is a little quirky with a lot of personality. I’d love to go to school in something like this. The Around The World Dress ($44) in a gorgeous and flattering aqua shade is the base for the look, paired up with a Michael Kors Swing Cardigan in grey ($99) to ward off fall winds. This Green Charleston Large Hobo ($135) is big enough to throw your school books in and these Madden Girl G-Zarah Brown Vegan Boots ($70) will have your feet happy on the way to class. Let’s go bold for jewelry with a Multi-Strand Long Pendant Necklace ($18) and Liberal Arts Blue Hinged Bangle Bracelet ($15) to finish it off.

Party invite! Yay! You will be simply stunning in this Adrianna Papell Tulle Overlay Halter Dress ($158) of lustrous charmeuse overlaid with black tulle. The dress is the center of attention in this look, so simple jewelry like the Dominique Cohen Knotted Pearl Bracelet ($20) and Pearl Duster Earrings ($20) will be perfect. Carry this precious fabric clutch with bow detail ($39) and pop some Frenda Bronze Court Shoes (£40.00) on your feet for a simply unforgettable look.

31 August, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

1. Swap with Kristina Karkovski!!!!!, 2. Side Pocket Tote Bags, 3. patchwork birds, 4. hello in there, 5. Kittee Curry, 6. peeps, 7. wallet n.6 / carteira n. 6, 8. “Lunchtime Love Story” blank greeting card, 9. Day 320, 10. Birthday bun, 11. Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes, 12. Summer finds, 13. My sewing & crafting studio, 14. mapo_tofu, 15. bittersweet skies, 16. plumage, 17. Homegrown cherry tomatoes, 18. Motel-view 2, 19. dessert sushi, 20. fly to that far side, 21. Happy Girls Under a Rainbow, 22. Kite Boarding II, 23. Two Reds and a yellow with a….bug!, 24. chartreuse wings, 25. Red Like Your Mother’s Eyes, 26. Chartreuse image du jour 4-4-06, 27. australia day, 28. Shades of Chartreuse in the green forest, 29. 21 Berries to the basket, 30. chew, 31. summer fruit, 32. humis-&-tomoatos, 33. flowers, day two, 34. Embroidered by Hand, 35. ummm…it’s time to go home, Max., 36. Farm Share Week #11

30 August, 2007
Fat Fashion Thursday – Coats!

Fat Fashion Thursday is back for another dose of hot fashion and animal-friendly accessories. This week – coats! I had a special request from the hot_fatshion livejournal community to scout some warm and gorgeous wool-free coats, so here we go!

One trend this fall that I’m really liking is shine for day. I love all things patent and this Michael Kors Patent Trench Coat ($209) is a gorgeous update to the classic belted trench. This will spice up even the most basic black slacks without any effort at all. The fluted sleeves and large buttons on this Bernardo Metallic Empire Coat ($148) are surprising details on an extremely flattering silhouette.

Another fall trend that our pear-shaped big girls can rock really well – the swing coat. Here are two colorful choices to spice up your fall wardrobe. First, this
Brown Plaid 3-button Jacket ($58) from Torrid is easy on the wallet as well as packed full of cute detailing between the large buttons, ruching and lively pattern. And for a real pop of vibrant color, how about this Michael Kors Cotton Twill Swing Jacket ($159) in an orange that’s the perfect complement with the tans, browns and olive fall neutrals. I could see this on top of corduroy or velvet pants for a nice texture contrast as well.

And finally, some neutrals that will carry you through fall all the way to the coldest winter months. Start out with this Torrid Khaki Belted Trench Coat ($68) that will flatter the figure and has a cute lining as well! (I also bought a really great A-line trench coat from Old Navy that I caught on sale for $35 – I’m looking for a belt to spice it up!) To keep completely toasty, this Jones New York Woman Faux-Shearling Coat ($234) won’t let you down. The look and feel of suede and shearling is simply luxurious and I love that it has a hood as well! Happy coat shopping, you know you better get on it before they’re all gone!

24 August, 2007
Friday Flickr Favorites!

Some of my recent Flickr favorites: enjoy!

1. P1010119, 2. sweater, 3. "Glo-Bug" Etsy custom order, 4. hanami full length, 5. red flower facinator, 6. tomato red and fuchsia/sequin striped cowl, 7. august 6, 2007, 8. 9 august 2007, 9. last day of summer school, 10. Grey dress, 11. P4286647, 12. scene from my new studio, 13. four rows of the strip quilt, 14. yum, 15. Greetings!, 16. chocolate_cupcake with mocha_buttercream_frosting, 17. #2 with #1, 18.