the style rules

Slouchy

2009-11-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

Lightweight cardi from Rome, White pocket tank from LA fashion district, Tart leggings, Slouchy beanie from Etsy here, Steven Madden riding boots

While our fall in Cali hasn't been too cool (hey it drizzled a few days ago, in the middle of the night...) I have succumbed to warm weather clothes. While I am not yet able to wear any coats, I'll settle for an array of cardigans and slouchy knits. I'm not too much of a "hat girl," but I am in love with my new slouchy beanie. I came upon it while searching through Etsy one day, and now I want one in every color possible. They're just perfect for those days where you don't want to do a thing to your hair, and even cuter when you add some chunky curls.

I've also become quite attached to this tissue-thin cardi my mom brought me back from a random shop in Rome. It's slouchy, thin, cozy, and goes with absolutely everything. I'm not ashamed to say I've worn it 4 days out of this week :). I was thinking about it, and I think I've come to the conclusion that my favorite thing to wear is a cozy sweater, hands down. How about you?

Chaaaaanel

2009-11-12T23:14:00.000-08:00

Chanel silver necklace, Forever 21 chunky gold necklace, Slouchy black tank from LA fashion district, Zara sweater with fur trim

Sorry for more Iphone picks, but the boy was gone for a week and that means no pretty shots. He's back now - so that of course means more outfits posts coming up! How have you all been? Is anyone excited for Thanksgiving or Christmas yet? I sure am... because Christmas means vacation! It also means lots of shopping to reward myself for this killer semester of torture.

So, here if the gift my Mama brought me from Rome - kind of hard to see but it's a silver Chanel chain necklace with C-H-A-N-E-L spelled out. It doubles as a belt and when wrapped several times around, a bracelet. Gotta love the saleslady who talked my mom into this one :) I mixed it with a chunky faux-gold necklace from Forever 21, and I actually think it looks pretty awesome. High-low at it's finest, people.

Life via... Iphone

2009-11-05T23:19:00.000-08:00

My sincerest apologies for the lack in posts. Law school is really cramping my style - both figuratively and actually. To compensate here are some pics captured via Iphone from the last few weeks. Besides studying, outlining, reading and stressing I have filled the little time I have with sleep and the occasional trip to Zara. When I'm a successful rich lawyer and this economy bounces back, I'm investing in Zara, for sure. First two shots are an outfit I wore to hang out with some friends a few weeks back - I'm really into mundane colors lately (perhaps a reflection of my mood?) Forever 21 army green jacket, Zara tee, American Apparel skirt, Zara motorcycle boots.

Shot on the left was from a recent trip to Zara in Santa Monica. Love, love, loved this vest - but couldn't justify spending $90 bucks on it considering I would probably have only worn it once. On the right, the lovely commute to school coming from the westside down La Cienega. Honestly, I believe with time, traffic can drive you clinically insane. Bottom left, Buddy sleeping on my bed since the boy is away on a duck hunting trip (don't ask, but apparently there are duck hunting clubs where girls aren't allowed, ever). Last pic on the right is a lovely gift my mommy brought me back from Rome. It's an amazing necklace which can also be made into a belt or bracelet. Can't wait to debut it on the blog soon!

Fall

2009-10-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

Forever 21 flannel, Skirt from the LA fashion district, Zara motorcycle boots

So it was close to a hundred degrees yesterday and today hasn't hit 70. Earthquake weather? I'm hoping and praying it stays cool so I can start wearing tights along with all the faux fur I've acquired in the past few months. If not, those sad pieces will just get tucked into my closet for next year because before we know it, it will be spring again. Sometimes I do wish I lived where there were real seasons.

I'm in love with this flannel I picked up at Forever 21 last week for just $20 bucks. It comes in a deep purple too and I'm thinking I might have to go and swoop it up before it disappears forever - because we all know how fast their turnover is. It's like budget Isabel Marant! Speaking of which, my mom was so kind as to call me today and let me know she was strolling around Paris. I am so jealous - I told her that she needs to go to the Isabel Marant store and pick me up something, anything. Gosh, fall in Paris must be so beautiful right about now...

Swing

2009-10-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

Zara top, tank, jeans and boots, handmade rutilated quartz necklace

I don't know what's been up with me this week but I've definitely been a bit of an airhead. Forgetting my computer, reading the wrong assignments, tearing up when I hear the randomest songs on the radio... I liken it to being on a shopping freeze, my parents leaving for Europe for two weeks (just dropped them off at LAX to head to Amsterdam) and the pressures of law school. This weekend shall be filled with a memo, outlining, and reading. But tonight - tonight I will have some fun. Going to see "New York, I love you," hopefully having a beer or two, and forgetting I'm a law student for a few hours...

Now on to the outfit. This ensemble alone proves my die-hard loyalty to Zara. Isn't it sad that the entire thing was bought there? While it lacks creativity, I must say that I adore it. Zara can do no wrong in my eyes. This bat-wing top might be my favorite purchase from the chain, since I know I will have it for years and years - it's just that pretty. I feel very Nicole Richie in it :)

P.S. Check out my feature on Lemondrop here!

Back with a Winner!

2009-10-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh! So sorry for my absence this past week...but law school is kicking this poor fashionista's butt. Back to outfit posts this week - promise! I am getting uber excited for the rain that is predicted because as I am sure you all know, I am dying to wear my fall clothes! Flannels, leggings, riding boots, chunky scarves, faux fur...it all sounds so magical, no?

Speaking of which - how cute is this ensemble that JB is rocking? I'm usually not much of a fan of this chicky's style but I love how chic she looks here with the unexpected pastel green scarf. And speaking of scarves - I used random.org to pick the winner of my Chickdowntown giveaway and the winner is Diabolina! Yay! Email me your info at thestylerules@gmail.com and we will get the scarf out to you asap. Thank you all for entering, love ya! xo

Blaze

2009-09-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Blazer and white tank from LA fashion district, Current Elliott shorts, Zara studded flats

I won't lie, it took me quite a white to come around and actually buy a blazer. I know it can be paired with just about anything from jeans to a skirt to a dress - but I had just never found the perfect one. I wanted one that was chic, but casual. I found the perfect fit in this grey blazer from Soho in the LA fashion district last weekend. Once the weather cools down I can't wait to wear it with skirts and tights - but for now, my Current Elliott shorts will have to do.

I also can't wait til I can get more use out of this amazing flats. I'm not too big of a flats girl - I prefer wedges or boots or sandals - but when I saw these at the Zara in NYC last March (50% on sale no less!) I knew I had to scoop them up. I love how fiercely dangerous the studs look, and how they add the perfect amount of edge to the girliest of outfits.

PS. Don't forget to enter my Chickdowntown giveaway! There are only 16 entries so far!

LA Fashion District Review

2009-09-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Dolman sleeve blouse, Pleated zipper skirt and braided sandals all from the LA Fashion District

The top and skirt were two of my awesome scores while shopping in the downtown this weekend - the braided sandals I bought a few months back and have lasted me through the summer. Retail value for all? $64. Can you believe it? I really don't know what I would do if I ever moved away from LA. I can't wait to pair this exact outfit with tights and suede booties once the weather finally decides to cool down!

As promised, here are some of my must-see shops in downtown LA's fashion district.

Soho and Cinema: Owned by the same woman, both these shops are phenomenal. If something is on trend, you can most definitely find it here. Slouchy tanks, boyfriend blazers, oversized sweaters, chic little party dresses - they have it all. And best of all, everything is super reasonably priced. Especially considering you could find similar pieces for hundreds, yes hundreds more in stores. Only problem is that you can't really try on at either. If you ask very sweetly, sometimes they let you change in the bathroom at Soho. I just always try to wear something like leggings and a tank so I can try on over. Soho,923 S. Santee #4, LA, CA 90015

Cinema, 220 E. 9th Street, LA, CA 90015

Roem: Bought the infamous braided sandals here for $12 dollars. Yes $12! Considering I have worn them almost everyday for the past three months, I think I got my money's worth. Love this store because like Soho and Cinema, all their shoes are super on trend. In fact, just bought two pairs of over-the-knee boots here for $30 bucks each. Couldn't find over-the-knee's anywhere else downtown. So head over there, and quick! Roem, 1149 S. Maple St, LA, CA 90015

Duet: You do have to sift through this store a bit, but once you do, you are bound to pick up a few gems. Case in point: the printed dolman sleeve from this post. Just $22. Today my friend said she thought it cost at least $100. Love when that happens don't you? I also got my tie-dye tank dress from this post here. For just $26. This store is right across the alley from Roem.

Duet, 1120 S. Santee St #H, LA, CA 90015

Beauty and the City: This store tends to be a hit or miss but as of late it has been fabulous. They have faux jewelry galore as well as some non-faux that is just as gorgeous. I was tempted to pick up a chainlink necklace Saturday, but I controlled myself. They also have tons of slouchy cardigans (and you all know how much I love slouchy cardigans), plus they tend to carry great-knock off party dresses (that look almost identical to BCBG). Beauty and the City, 930 S. Santee St. #6, LA, CA 90015

When you head downtown, be sure to bring cash because oftentimes you can haggle or not pay tax if you do! (You'll also need it to pay for parking - usually from $4-$10 depending on the time and day). I would also recommend just wandering around because lots of times you'll find great things in brand new shops or shops that are around the corner from the ones I just mentioned. Last tip: Drink a giant coffee beforehand - you'll need the energy :)

Market

2009-09-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Market tee, Jones New York scarf (from Nordie's Rack), Zara acid wash jeans, Sandals from LA fashion district, Mario Hernandez bag

This past weekend was a good one. I picked up a bunch of new (and reasonably priced) goodies in the fashion district and will be doing a post on the best shops down there very soon. So excited to share that with you guys! I get lots of questions about it, so I figured that one day I would actually do a thorough post about it. Only downside was that on the way there, I got my first (yes, very first!) moving violation - read: ticket. Yah, apparently I wasn't allowed to turn right on a red light even though I came to a complete stop and was going 10 miles per hour. Ugh! It's okay, my day ended well and so did my weekend!

I love the new tee I got from Market-t's! I got a tip from Dluxelist on my twitter that the first 100 people to follow Market-t's would get a free tee. Too good to be true? Apparently not! It's super flattering, super soft, and will fit in just fine with my collection of v-necks. I'm sure I will wear it to death.

Sunday the boy and I went on a nice leisurely bike ride to our alma mater, ate at Red Robin (have you ever had their clucks and fries? Yum!), watched too much football for my liking and stopped by Petco to get Buddy some treats and almost adopted the cutest kitten I've ever seen. I don't know why I even look... it's like torture!

Pebbles

2009-09-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

The Style Rules has teamed up with Chickdowntown.com once again to offer you this stunningly beautiful Tolani scarf! I recently saw an identical scarf to this in Bazaar (or was it Vogue)? Anyways, it was upwards of $200 dollars so I knew I couldn't justify purchasing it - even though it is so Nicole Richie (and you know I love Nicole Richie's style)! So I am beyond delighted that my wonderful readers have the chance to win this baby! Won't it look just fabulous with a lots of layers and boho boots? I'm also lusting over this Rachel Leigh Gumball Ring (I would pair it with everything) and Sahara Sunset Tunic from their Vintage Collection - I didn't even know they had a vintage collection!

PS. Follow Amy of Chickdowntown on Twitter here!

Rules:

- Leave me a comment saying what you would pair the scarf with by Friday, October 2, 2009. 8PM Pacific Time. I will pick the winner at random!

- For an additional entry follow my blog (and let me know in the comments!)

- For another additional entry follow my twitter here!

- Make sure to leave a way for you to be contacted (either your blog or email)

- Sorry, but this contest is for U.S. residents only.

Philippe's

2009-09-19T18:58:00.001-07:00

The first time I had Philippe's was with my Daddy. I remember he took me there one hot summer day and ordered me the lamb French dipped sandwich with an ice cold Coca Cola. I haven't stopped raving about it since. If you're ever in LA, visiting here is a must! Be prepared to wait in line (there is always a line), but trust me - your meal will be well worth it. There is simply nothing more delicious on a hot day in downtown. Today I took the boy (for the second time) and boy did we grub. The perfect ending to a day spent shopping in the fashion district!

Today we both got the same thing: Beef dipped with American cheese. Amazing. The chili is also the best I have ever had and their cold macaroni salad isn't half bad. Their lemonade is the perfect mix of tart and sweet and their iced tea is super refreshing. Make sure you go on an empty stomach! And bring cash. Cash only! (although they do have an ATM)

Tucker blouse, Zara cropped trousers, Sandals from the LA fashion district, Mario Hernandez bag

Zaaaaaaaaaaara

2009-09-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I dragged my boy to the Zara at the Santa Monica promenade because it had been weeks since I had been there and as you all know, that is way too long for me. I found lots of amazing goodies including this amazing flannel and oversized sweater with a faux fur collar. Obviously it's not hot enough here in Cali to rock this ensemble yet, but I can't wait til fall finally decides to roll around. The boy didn't really get the pairing, but I thought it to be so Isabel Marant. What do you think? Do you love it or hate it?

Mr. Gary Graham

2009-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

I first came across Gary Graham while working at Findings Showroom last summer. While organizing piles upon piles of old look books, I came across his and was simply floored. It was like nothing I had ever seen - photographs that were super Victorian, haunting, and just breathtaking. His look book for the Spring 2010 collection is just as beautiful. And the collection itself - well, I need and want every piece. Here are a few of my favorites. They are so boho / broken down doll / effortlessly beautiful, no?

Watts Towers

2009-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend me and the boy were feeling a little stir-crazy so we decided to make a trip over to the Watts Towers since we had never been. I first heard about this crazy piece of art in my contemporary art class senior year and knew I had to eventually see it in person. The towers are located in Watts, CA, which is decidedly not the best neighborhood in Los Angeles, but when you come upon them it's breathtaking. They are a breath of fresh air in contrast with their surroundings. Created over 33 years (from 1921-1951) by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia, the towers are one of Los Angeles' historic cultural monuments. Regarding his inspiration he said: "I had in mind to do something big and I did it" Love that.

Look at how tiny I look next to these massive towers!

All the towers are covered in "found objects" - things like 7up bottles, sea shells, milk of magnesia bottles and scraps of tiles.

Simon himself. Amazing how a little old man like that could spend years creating something magnificent, all by himself.

Quick snap of the boy and I in the window of the tiny museum located next to the towers. It was so cool to go inside and see local work created and inspired by the towers.

Florence Stripe

2009-09-13T00:03:00.000-07:00

Vince sweater, Tucker tank, True Religion shorts, Jessica Elliot skull necklace,

Zara booties

It's finally starting to get (a little) cool here in LA - at least by the beach where

the boy lives and so I was finally able to throw on my new Vince sweater. It's so

cozy that everytime I put it on I'm inclined to take a long nap. I paired it with yet

another Tucker tank - this time in the Florence Stripe print which I happen to think

is much more Costa Rican / Guatamalan / Mexican then Italian, but I guess Gaby Basora

must have been inspired by something beautiful she saw in Florence. I spent this

Saturday watching football (which was the very last thing I wanted to do) but I got

a nice sushi dinner and a date to The September Issue out of it so I'm not complaining.

Loved the movie - it reminded me of why I have loved Vogue since I was little. Grace

Coddington is a genius - no ifs, ands or buts about it.

Hi, Neon

2009-09-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

Open Knit Cardigan, Limeade Boyfriend Tee (both from Nordstrom),H&M Skinny Jeans

I'm not afraid of a bright print, clearly. But neons - neons are something that intimidate me. I guess I just don't like the idea of looking like a highlighter (and having everyone else think so too). But this past weekend I decided to give them a try when I was at Nordie's and fell in love with this color. Now, I have this tee in white, black and grey - but never had the guts to get it in Limeade. Well, I'm glad I did. I paired it with this navy slub cardigan (also from Nordies) because I wanted to even out the bright color for classes today. I think I'll wear it with some denim cutoffs and some chunky gold jewelry this weekend, sans cardigan.

Oh, and I just wanted to talk about an anonymous comment I got this week - saying that "they get that I'm in law school" and basically I should stop talking about it. Well, I'm sorry if I tend to chat about it but this blog does delve into my life and the truth is that my life 5 days a week has to do with law now - so all I can say I guess is if you don't like it, then you don't have to read my blog. :) Thanks to everyone else that has been so supportive and sweet and such amazing readers!

Floral Burst

2009-09-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

Tucker tank, True Religion shorts, Mario Hernandez bag, Handmade necklace

Sorry to bombard you with outfit posts full of Tucker, but I think I've developed a minor obsession with the brand. It started off with curiousity, then like, then love, and now it's plain old obsession. And with the weather the way it has been, it's difficult to throw on anything but a lightweight silk cami. I picked up this ginormous hobo bag while in Colombia this past May. I was lucky enough to get to tour the Mario Hernandez factory and eat lunch with the designer. This bag fits in perfectly with my law-student-lifestyle now because it can hold 2 casebooks (books that weigh about 10 pounds each). This baby is sturdy. And I love the bright yellow color - I'm trying to get as much use out of it as I can before fall. PS. Not a fan of True Religion for the most part, but these shorts are just perfect. Not too short, not too tight.

What're your plans for the Labor Day weekend? As for me, I'm planning on relaxing and doing as little as possible. Law school will do that to a person. But really, I'm just relieved to have an extra day off this week! Yay!

Carrie's Back!

2009-09-01T21:08:00.000-07:00

So the first pics from the new SATC movie are out. Is everyone as excited as me? I think so. How flawless is this outfit? While a bit simple for Carrie's style, I think this is such an amazing next phase. And those Louboutin's are pretty much the most stunning pair I've seen yet. A shimmery neutral that will last in your closet forever? Yes, please!

Fridays, I'm in Love

2009-08-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

Tucker tank, H&M skinny jeans, Sandals bought in LA fashion district

I couldn't resist buying this tank off of Tucker's website last week as it was uber on sale. It's my very first Tucker tank. I'm not too sure how I feel about the shape yet since with a bit of wind it goes from being a slouchy cami to a parachute. However, I know it will work fabulously under cardigans and blazers when this heat wave decides to vacate the city. Boo to 100 degree weather and the wildfires it causes. By the way, law school brings a whole new appreciation for Fridays. I only have one class Friday's and if I'm a good little girl and get my reading done by then, I get to spend the afternoon like I did today - with my boy in Manhattan Beach eating scrumptious food and spotting random Lakers. I was tempted to tell Luke Walton just how much I think he stinks. But, I have manners :)

Bat Wing

2009-08-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Zara batwing cardigan, Tie-dye dress and sandals bought in L.A. fashion district

I'm not gonna lie. Law school is intense. It's hard, a lot of work, and I'm left exhausted everyday. I'm so glad I have this blog, you guys and clothing in general to keep me going :) Oh and my boy and dog too. Couldn't do it without their support.

This cardigan is going to be the cardigan for fall. It's also the perfect transition piece. Picked it up at Zara this weekend for a mere $40. I've already found 6 dresses / rompers to pair it with. Now that's what I call a wise investment! It went just perfect with this tie-dye dress I picked up in the fashion district a few weeks ago, since apparently, the weather has decided to soar back into the 90's. And I thought fall was just around the corner...

Buddy's not the world's best model, but his personality more then makes up for it.

Last Summer Days

2009-08-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Aqua Dress, Vintage belt from Guatemala, Enigma wedges.

So even though school has started and I've been up to my ears in casebooks, I've made a conscious decision to enjoy my last days of summer. It's hard to believe fall is just around the corner! But I must admit - I can't wait to wear oversized cardigans, stretchy leggings, and my entourage of riding boots.

However, this weekend it was unusually hot and sticky, making this Aqua dress just perfect. Remember I have this exact dress in a pretty coral? Love this dress. And don't get me started on these wedges. My brother's fiancee bought them in Melrose a few months back but unfortunately for me, they were nowhere to be found when I went in search of them. Until I randomly decided to google them on the internets and there they were! 60% off no less.

How are you all spending your last days of summer? I spent the weekend strolling through Santa Monica (doing some damage at the Zara there - whee!), eating scrumptious beef sashimi, watching Inglorious Basterds and hanging with the boy (and our lovely puggle). Can't ask for much more.

Law Student

2009-08-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

Tucker romper, H&M wrap sweater, AE belt, Zara boots

Sorry to have been a bit MIA these past few weeks, but as you all probably know, I finally started law school! While the past week and half has been filled with orientation activites and a legal writing seminar, today was my first official day of class. When I went to pick an outfit, I knew I had to wear something from my ultimate fav - Tucker. I recently scored this adorable Tucker romper on Ebay for about $80, but a version of it is still available here on shopbop for $280 (Gotta love Ebay!). I wanted to be fun, but not too fun - so I balanced it out with this old wrap sweater from H&M, my trusty leather belt from AE, and the ever-present Zara boots. I know you guys are probably sick of seeing them, but they go with everything and they are painless. I'm so in love.

PS. Sorry the last pic is blurry but we snapped these pics with minutes til the sun went down. Unfortunately I was at the library til 7:00. But it's okay, cause one day I'll have all the Tucker blouses my heart desires :) Oh! And Tucker is having a fab sale on their webshop right now, with pieces up to 60% off, check it out here.

Jealous!

2009-08-14T00:30:00.000-07:00

Lust vs Love

2009-08-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

Ever since spying this gorgeously boho Chanel bracelet I haven't been able to stop obsessing over it. Something about the combination of flowery cotton with lust-inducing gold double C's makes it fantastic. And while I can't afford it's steep price tag at the moment, there are plenty of options on Etsy that convey the exact same effortless boho-lux feel. Case in point: this fabulous bib necklace by etsy seller Florabond. Get it here for $69.00. Be sure to check out the rest of her shop too - I want everything!

Paint it Black

2009-07-31T17:52:00.000-07:00

Nation LTD tee, Zara trousers, Zara suede boots, American Eagle belt, Handmade playing card necklace

Ten days and counting until law school begins. Eeps. Til then, I plan on catching up with friends, relaxing, doing some shopping and taking as many outfit posts as possible. For this weekend though I'm off to watch The Ugly Truth (heard it's ha-larious), attending a friend's wedding and saying goodbye to my old roomie who's headed out to study in London for a year (so jealous!) What're your plans for the weekend?