The Resale Debate

Last week I got together with my cousin Kristy (and one of my very first readers :) for a delicious lunch at Louise's Trattoria and some resale shopping on Melrose. After devouring the best salad ever - hello Sonoma Salad (highly recommend) we headed over to some of my personal favs: Wasteland and Crossroads Trading Co. I was able to score this uber-boho multi-colored belt for just $10 bucks (saw a similar one in last month's Lucky for over $100!) and this turquoise BCBG dress for just $16 bucks. I think I've become somewhat of a resale pro - whodathunkit?

But while I have grown accustomed to the patience and thought resale shopping requires, this was Kristy's first time. I could tell it was a bit overwhelming for her - so much to go through just to find a few treasures. She also didn't like the feeling of wearing someone's used clothing. Totally get that. This totally used to be my opinion - that is, until my shopping budget got smaller and smaller! Then one day I made a decision and visited a Crossroads all by my lonesome and decided that I was going to find something that I really loved - even if it took me a few hours. And I did. Remember this post? And the solution to "wearing someone else's clothes" ? A quick trip to the dry cleaner (I also factor in the price of this to the item I buy to see how much it's really going to cost me). At the end of the day, Kristy ended up buying a bunch of super cute things that still had their tags on, so it's a step in the right direction. Can't wait til she's picking through the $1 pile at Jet Rag with me!

What's your opinion? Do you love resale as much as me, or does the thought of wearing someone else's old clothes freak you out?

Pack Rat

Zara top, Seven for all Mankind Jeans, Handmade Amethyst Necklace, Braided Sandals bought in LA Fashion District

There's just something I love about a lightweight, oversized top. I know it may not be the most flattering of all pieces, but it makes me feel comfy and chic and that's all that matters right? I've been on an endless search for the perfect pair of braided sandals, and low and behold I finally found them while walking through the fashion district last week on my lunch. And for a measly $14 dollars - gotta love living in a major metropolitan city where you can buy things on the cheap. I was debating putting this necklace up in my Etsy shop, but decided this little beauty was going to make its permanent home with me. Amethyst is my birthstone, after all. I just couldn't let her go. If you didn't realize by now, I get attached to things every once and awhile - which results in the pack-rat nature of my room. Update: WOW! Totally just found my necklaces twin on Daily Candy - this line is sweet.

What pieces or things can you just not let go of?

Faux

Faux Chanel burnout tee (bought at Fairfax Flea Market), American Apparel bandage skirt, Yves St Laurent Platforms

There isn't much I love more than Chanel (have you SEEN the fall collection? I live for those Russian Matryoshka dolls). Dying for one of those necklaces to add to my wardrobe. But alas, there is no money money at the moment for such beautiful things - so this faux Chanel will have to do for now. I love it a little more everytime I wear it. I also added a few necklaces to my Etsy shop, check it out here. Would love to know your thoughts!

Oh and don't you think the BF's photography skills are vastly improving? Love the haziness of these shots he took.

Beachy Time

Zara romper, Henri Bendel bangle, Seychelles Sandals via Solestruck

This weekend the sun finally came out and it was warm enough to wear this romper I have been holding hostage in my closet since I returned from Colombia in May. When this whole romper trend started, I wasn't sure I was too into it - until I saw this one in Bogota at their humongous (and amazingly packed) Zara. I love the simple shape of it, the neutral color and the fact that it feels like air on the body. The bangle I picked up while I was in New York a few months back at Henri Bendel. Not sure if you noticed, but I'm a big bangle girl! Check out Henri Bendel's jewelry here - some of the pieces are super cute, very unexpected. Oh, and I forgot to tell you all thank you for the super sweet comments on my necklaces - made my day! I will be putting a few up on etsy in a few days, I just need to decide which ones I can part with. :)

PS. It was very windy up above the ocean if you couldn't tell. :)

Love you, Daddy

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! You are the best man I know. I love you.

Pour Some Sherbet On Me

Aqua dress, Forever 21 bracelets, Bandolino Sandals from DSW and Handmade Druzy Agate Neckace

It's simply amazing what wearing a bright colored summer frock can do to perk up your mood. If you didn't get the pun, the title was supposed to be a take on "Pour Some Sugar On Me" :) I picked up this lovely little Aqua eyelet dress at the Bloomie's private sale a few days ago, after holding off on buying it for months. I knew this baby would go on sale eventually, and even Fabsugar knows what an ah-mazing dress this is - I had to have it. I loved it so much I scooped it up in yellow, too! Can you believe these lucite bracelets are from Forever 21? I bought one similar to this from Guess years ago, and I still wear it to this day - but it cost me $40 dollars more than these did. Thank goodness lucite lasts forever.

Check out Buddy enjoying the afternoon breeze. He loves to sit on the balcony while the wind swishes his ears -with his eyes closed, no less. Wonder what he's thinking?

Ms. Selena

I first heard about Selena Gomez while doing research for a Mighty Fine / Cartoon Network collaboration back during my days at the PR Firm. I thought she was the most gorgeous little girl I had ever seen. Now, just a year later, she has become a big star. Kinda cool to think I got to meet her, her super sweet mom, and BFF Demi Lovato before she hit the big time. I remember walking her around our showroom, gifting her, and being super nervous as she was one of my first celebrity clients that I brought to our showroom all on my own. Now, not only is she Disney's new It girl, but one with super chic style (especially for her age). And I am loving her new cropped hairdo - so grown up and classic. Do you love Selena Gomez as much as me?

Boyfriend Tee For You, and Me

So while I love a bold print, often times I love nothing more than throwing on a comfy tee. I'm not talking about your dad's old smelly gym tee, but one that is chic, simple and classic. Funnily enough I found my favorite tees at Nordstrom's Brass Plum months ago and scooped up as many as I could find in my size in a multitude of colors - just in case I wasn't able to find them again. I loved how they draped that much. But browsing Nordie's site this morning I came upon this genius Boyfriend tee in a host of new summer colors including limeade (above), ultraviolet and vibe. Get them here for just $20 bucks.

Model Mommy Style

Alessandra Ambrosio is without a doubt, stunning. She has always been one of my favorite models (even back in the day when no one knew who she was, she was plastered on my walls). And while I hear she's a bit looney, she does make a gorgeous mommy. I love everything about this outfit - from the simple sandals to the denim cutoffs to the 70's hippy top. This is exactly the look I want to have going when I'm a mommy one day!

Pirate Pants

American Apparel tri-blend tank, Theory Filisa pant, Handmade necklaces

So after obsessing over jewelry by Melissa Joy Manning and Devon Leigh for months, I decided to just go ahead and make my own. This recession really does result in oodles of creativity. The impending thought of my first year of law school probably has something to do with it, too. The right side of my brain is trying to put itself to good use before the left side of my brain takes over for three whole years!

I just got these Theory pants at the Bloomie's Private Sale, so I got them for a lot less than they are on Shopbop at the moment. Love me a good sale! And I love how these pants make me feel like a pirate. As you can tell, shoes weren't necessary. :)

Dancing in the Street

Vintage dress, Jelly Gladiators bought in the LA fashion district, Michele watch

I picked up this vintage dress at the Fairfax Flea Market that I posted about a few weeks back and it has quickly become my new love. It's still all shiny and new (well not quite) so we are definitely head over heels in love at the moment. Don't tell anyone, but I've worn this beauty 4 times in the last 2 weeks. I bought it for $17 bucks, so that makes cost per wear almost nothing! And trust me, this baby will be making many appearances throughout the summer. Completing the look are $10 dollar jelly gladiators bought in downtown last summer (much more affordable than say, the Givenchy ones). I had them in black too, but they tore after many a trek through the fashion district when I worked at Findings last summer. I wore those babies out!

I love that my amazing photographer / boyfriend made a cameo in this shot. See him at the bottom? Love you Giles!

Sunshine on a Sunday

Tucker by Gaby Basora blouse, Current Elliott denim shorts, DIY agate necklace, Michele watch

The sunshine finally decided to peek out its little head today, so I thought I'd give my new Current Elliott shorts a whirl. I'm normally not a fan of shorts (what girl is, really?), but these are just amazing and so comfy. They feel like I've had them since I was 12 or something - they are that worn in and loved. And what's better? They cost me a mere $35 bucks!

I also worked on this lovely necklace this weekend - its a huge purple agate similar to the one Drew Barrymore wore here. I wanted it so much I decided to make my own. I'm still deciding what length I want it to be, but it's my new favorite necklace for now.

Current Elliott / Joie Sample Sale

Happy Friday! I stopped by the Current Elliot / Joie sample sale today after work, and boy oh boy was it overwhelming. Thankfully I got there before the crowds (it was about 3:30), so I was able to try on lots of denim. I actually went assuming I'd be spending tons on Joie but while their selection was vast, I didn't see one piece from any current collections. The shoes were descent if you're looking for boots, but other than that, nothing to write home about. The Current Elliott selection on the other hand was ah-mazing. Racks and racks of everything from skinny to boyfriend to shorts and there was a ton of stuff left in a lot of sizes. If you have time this weekend I would definitely say head over. Denim is $50 (and they retail for around $250!), Shorts are $35 and dresses are $40. They also had denim jackets and non-denim button-ups. The building is a bit hard to find, but if you catch the sample sale sign just follow it and there is tons of parking. Plan on spending a good hour to hour and a half there -I did, and there weren't any crowds!

4599 District Blvd.

Vernon, CA

Saturday 6/13 8am-5pm

Cash /CC Only

June Gloom Calls for 90's Grunge

Flannel bought in the LA fashion district, Tart leggings, Jessica Simpson booties.

While LA is known for being sunny, we've been experiencing June Gloom like no other. Rain, dark clouds - the works. So depressing when you can just feel how close the sunshine is. Can't wait for the overwhelming heat that July will bring. I bought this grungy flannel in downtown months and months ago, but I'm just now getting around to wearing it. I love it's puffy bat wings - makes me feel like I'm walking around in PJ's. I guess this weather just brings about a Nirvana-esq mood circa 1996.

PS. I got my hair done! It's lighter, did you notice? My BF barely did - but he doesn't notice much when it comes to my hair :)

New Hair, Please

So I finally made an appointment to get my hair *trimmed* on Thursday, and I've decided I want to add some color to my lackluster hair. As of right now, it hasn't been dyed in close to a year and has reds, browns, and even some blonds...sounds nice but does not look so nice. What I am really dying for is model Lily Aldridge's hippy style hair in the left pic. I love how there are literal chunks of blond in her hair - my hair girl is going to be mighty mad that I will be requesting highlights :) I know they are a pain, but for the summertime there really is no other option, is there? PS. I am so putting together an outfit that looks just like LL's on the right, my new YSL platforms will suffice as the shoe substitute, no?

What are your fabulous summer hair plans?

Time for the Fedora

The BF took this outfit post a couple weeks back, but I'm just getting around to posting them. The Southern California heat sometimes calls for a laid-back weekend outfit - complete with LA hipster fedora. This is one of my favorite tees from Velvet - they were doing burnout tees way before they were popular, people. Love them. The bag was an impulse purchase the last day I was in Colombia because whilst I dream of owning a Bird Handbag, my pockets do not run that deep. This beautiful (and oversized) bag will have to suffice for now. Velvet by Graham & Spencer tee, American Apparel Bandeau (underneath), AG Ex-boyfriend jeans, Chanel Mary-Janes, Bamboo bracelets and Handknit leather bag from Colombia, Fedora from the L.A. Fashion District)

LA Clouds

Only in Los Angeles can you use the heater on the way to work, and your air-conditioning on the way home. This morning it was raining cats and dogs, but by the time I left work at 4:00 the sun was-a-shining. How gorgeous LA can look, no?

P.S.: Check out some little features The Style Rules had this week here on Smitten, Nicole Richie News and Blog Goggles! Thanks Ladies :)

Tucker's Domination Continues

I guess Tucker blouses are the thing to wear to Lakers Games! Lauren Conrad was spotted at yesterday's game in LA wearing a top from the Resort 08 collection of Tucker, sold out everywhere. Remember Drew's adorable purple Tucker by Gaby Basora blouse a few weeks back? Gorgeous. I passed this particular top up at the sample sale back in March and now I'm regretting it. It hurts how much I want new Tucker tops!

Beach Time, E&J Style

So, I've always loved sequins. I mean, I get that you can only ever really wear them if it's your birthday or new years eve, but coming across this Beach Shrug by Elizabeth & James, I am convinced this sequin creation can be worn all day, every day. I desperately want one for the summer time. Please go on sale! I wonder if I would be able to concoct something similar to this using by DIY skills?

Mistakes, Mistakes

So I bought this dress awhile back when I saw it on Vanessa Hudgens, and I loved it. Then, it sat in my closet for months on end and lost it's appeal. I never wore it, so I just returned it at Bloomies last weekend. And now, Ashley Tisdale was spotted wearing it and I am having second thoughts. Ugh, I want my dress back! Problem is, I got in on sale with my discount, and now it's pretty much sold out everywhere. Has this ever happened to you? Ugggh I hate the loss of control!

Barbrix Silverlake

Last week I was finally able to rally up some old friends and head over to Barbrix in Silverlake. I was so happy to see some of my old girls from the PR firm which included one who now works at Buffalo Exchange corporate, a gal that is in the processing of starting her own handbag / dress line, and one spunky girl who currently works for a company that distributes burn out tees and has what can only be described as an intense and interesting job. :) Sometimes I get so wrapped up in my own crazy world that I forget I have these amazing friends, living the twenty-something life, just trying to make it in this crazy world we live in. Truly, no one ever told me your twenties are mucho confusing /consuming. It was nice to catch up with them and realize I'm not alone on this (sometimes very stressful) path to greatness. And trust me, we will all be great. :)

Now on to the restaurant review. Barbrix just opened up about two weeks ago in a converted old house in the heart of Silverlake. If you are not from LA, Silverlake is the hipster / up-and-coming section of the city. I personally love it to pieces. I loved the feel of this place, even though it was uber-packed. The food was terrific (except for the small portions - but it was enough for me, not so much if you are dining with a boy). I had the Sicilian Veal Meatballs, Spring Farro Salad (I accidentally ate my friends, sorry again KM!) - but it was delicious, and finally the Crispy Grilled Polenta. 100% recommend all of them. Barbrix also has a huge beer / wine selection from all around the world. It really doesn't get much better. Oh ya it does, try their shortcake for dessert. Heaven! Another huge plus: our waitress. I forget her name, but she was amazing. The service at this restaurant really is above the fray. I hate when I go to any restaurant in LA and the service is dreadful - total turnoff, especially when you are paying a pretty penny. Barbrix gets an A+ for their staff.

Barbrix:

2442 Hyperion Blvd (at Tracy)

LA, CA 90027

So I finally decided to try the old side braid in your messy hair thing. It's actually relatively simple, but to me it's a big deal - because I rarely, if ever, do anything new to my hair. Ha! I'm boring. But I think it turned out cute, maybe I'll make it a once a week thing! In case you are wondering this is what I wore to go to Barbrix: Nation LTD Boyfriend tee, AG Ex-Boyfriend jeans, YSL Black platforms. Guess I was missing my BF, huh?

Fairfax Flea Market 5/31

This picture pretty much sums up our day at the flea market - me amongst racks of clothes and my wonderful and amazingly patient boyfriend following me around with a camera. I love you baby!

Last time I came to the Fairfax Flea Market I didn't see this stall of amazing dresses (not sure how I missed it), but this line is called Hippy Girl by Lenila - my favorite were the tube dresses. All the same simple shape, but with a ton of gorgeous patterns to pick from. I ended up getting an

orange, white, green floral one for just $25 bucks. I'll be sure to post a pic of it soon - so pretty!

OMG so indescribably excited when I spotted these faux Chanel burnout tees. These tees came with a bunch of different token Chanel images on v-necks, crew-necks and racerback tanks. I'm surprised I didn't buy all of them. I did exercise some self control people.

I ended up buying two grey burnout v-necks with the double C's. This one here with the neon C's and another with gold C's. We're in our major honeymoon stage at the moment.

I came veeeery close to buying this vintage Aztec print tube dress, but by the time I spotted it I had spent my alotted cash for the day. Hopefully some other lucky fashionista took it home, it was definitely one of those treasure finds.

The purse! That jacket! I totally wanted both - but then realized that the purse I was wearing at the moment was suspiciously similar to the one I was looking at. So I used my will power. Damn that will power. And so much as I love the look of fur and this short-sleeved jacket was so

brilliantly cut - I just can't bring myself to wear fur. No offense to anyone that does though - I can bear to rock a snakeskin bag, but for some reason I just can't do fur. To each his own in the fashion world :)

This dog and little boy were too cute. They kept running back and forth down the aisle together, and my boyfriend was finally able to grab the

doggy's attention. Doesn't he look kinda like a cartoon character?

The minute I move into my own place, I am lining my walls with vintage Vogue covers, just like these. Do you have a favorite flea market in your hometown?

My Favorite Theory

This past Sunday the BF and I spent a day at the Fairfax flea market, went by the Bloomies in the Bev Center, stopped by a newsstand to pic up the June issue of British Vogue (anyone seen the insane editorial with Daria Werbowy shot by Patrick Demarchelier in it?) and ended the day with some scrumptious Chipotle.

This is by far my favorite Theory piece, especially because I got it 40% off a year ago at the Saks sale. It's so basic, and I love that it's a bubble dress (so I can eat a lot and you won't see my tummy)! It's the perfect dress for a lazy Sunday. I know it's tough to see but my necklace is basically a bunch of tiny leaves strewn across a simple gold chain - it's by a line called Vale and I picked it up two summers ago in Soho at an open market. Soho has the best jewelry - I have so many pieces I bought there that I wear over and over. And can you believe I got this fab suede Lucky bag for just $30 at the Crossroads on Melrose? I know.

Theory dress, Seychelles sandals via Solestruck, Vale necklace, Lucky Handbag bought resale at Crossroads.