Read Between the Lines

 I've been in university residence for two months now, and if you can believe things are just starting to slow down as of November. Hence sorry, for the minimal posting and stay tuned for updates. I'm actually proud because I recently accomplished a fashion challenge that I've been trying to do for a long time, mixing stripes with stripes. When mixing stripes make sure you pair one bold stripe with a lighter less vibrant stripe. If you're trying your hand at this for the first time I recommend choosing similar stripes in neutral shades. Here are a couple of examples that I thought were equally as inspiring. Have fun with your adventures in fashion.

PItch Perfect

From www.welovemoviesmorethanyou.com

Pitch Perfect gives a noteworthy performance with limited cliches about an unsuspecting girl, a group of misfits and an a capella singing competition. Beca is your typical mysterious outsider with a unique talent, she mixes her own kick ass beats. When she joins college she struggles to fit in, but reluctantly joins "The Bellas," an a cappella group headed up by the overly dominant Aubrey. Only then does Beca discover the impressive genre of a cappella, and vows to beat her group's main rivals the overly popular Treblemakers. Anna Kendrick gives a convincing performance as Beca, the unsuspecting rising star; and Brittany Snow brings her talent and well-known musical abilities to the role of Chloe, co-leader of "The Bellas." Other notable performances were funny girl Rebel Wilson's portrayal of Fat Amy and Anna Camp's version of the dominant Aubrey. Altogether this comedy was "Pitch Perfect."

7/10 
Screen it :) 

Update

Happy Thanksgiving fellow Canadians! The first few weeks of school have been roller coaster along with coordinating event after event so my posts haven't been updated as quickly. Here are some updated pictures I hope you enjoy. Live, Love, Laugh, Dance, and Own Your Style.

She's a Lady

One of my favorite things is to contrast high fashion trends with  casual pieces, which is what I like about this outfit. Combining lady like bows with  trending, free spirited zebra pants actually results in a trendy put together look that reinvents both pieces in the outfit. Definitely one of my favorites.

Swinging in Style

Hey! I'm back after a whole weekend of packing up and moving to university I'm finally back. This was my first day of school outfit. I really love how these are loose, no fuss pieces that still hold their own as statement makers. The shirt is kind of like a loose take on a pajama shirt, which is reminiscent of the "wearing pajama like things during daytime" trend that didn't really take off. I noticed that Marc Jacobs incorporated a lot of soft, flowy lingerie/pajama like pieces in his 2013 Paris Fashion Week show this year. Evidently, it actually can be a good idea. I've been dipping my toes into more bohemian flowy styles lately, and I'm actually enjoying it. Also this is a great outfit for thrifters-- something I plan to do more of now that I'm back in Toronto--you can find a loose pajama like shirt in thrift stores or Value Village and pair it with rainbow jeans that you already own. You never know when you can start a trend, so trend on!

Alice in Wonderland

From www.collider.com 

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland features Alice as a grown up teenager faced with difficult questions in Victorian England. Once again she ends up down the rabbit hole facing Wonderland and all it has to offer. This rendition of Alice in Wonderland is a feast for the eyes and features all the main characters from the original story, the Mad Hatter, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, the Door Mouse, the Red Queen and our favorites Tweedledum and Tweedledee. However, director Tim Burton and writer Linda Wolverton merely retold the story of Alice in Wonderland in visual form rather than creatively reinventing it.

6.7/10
Skip it :(

California Girls

This is one of the few moments I had to do a blog picture in California. This is a simpler outfit, but simple can be good. I realize a lot of people don't want to have to put too much thought into their vacation wear, but still want to look cute. In L.A. you're probably going to rock your short shorts, so a great fashionable alternative is a patterned shorts. Be weary if you're super curvy or pear shaped. If you feel apprehensive about wearing prints choose small, detailed prints or a simple prints such as polka dots or very small dots or intricate details. This is pretty much the last official week of summer, so if you have shorts wear em' and if you have patterns rock them.

Center Stage

From tenyearsago.wordpress.com 

Center Stage focuses on the inside world of dance, as it follows the stories of five dancers who are vying to make it into the American Ballet Company. This fictional drama displays the disciplines and hardships of ballet while maintaining a retro, collegy feel. Zoe Saldana shines in her breakout role, while the other dancers/actors do a sufficient yet not brilliant portrayal of their simplistic characters. Overall Centre Stage posesses an uncreative plot, but will be well enjoyed by anyone who has ever appreciated the art of dance.

6.9/10
Skip it :(

Aren't You a Doll?

I think one of my favorite elements of my style is the whimisical side. I've featured polka dots and I think everyone knows how much I love them. So here are a few facts about the best most whimiscal pattern in the world.

Polka Dots

• Polka dots were first popular in the UK around the 19th century
• They were traditionally worn by flamenco dancers
• There used to be polka hats and polka jackets
• In 2006 there was another polka dot fad
• Also made famous by the "Itsy Weenie Yellow Tenny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" song 

Fashion Direction

From eonline.com 

From eonline.com 

We've probably all been exposed to some One Direction fever these past few months, but regardless of whether you're fans are not there is something you can garner from the boys, their keen fashion sense. It took me a long time to pinpoint where the inspiration for this outfit might've come from in my subconscious, and after watching "One Thing" on repeat several times I've come to admire Louis' signature colored jeans and suspenders. So this look is my version of it. I don't have suspenders, but the vest does have thick suspender like straps. In this modern day, some fashion, especially hipster fashion borders on unisex so don't be afriad to take a little inspiration from the guys. And just like Louis don't be afraid to rock a signature look if you know it works for you, because "That's What Makes You Beautiful." 

Things I Love These Days

High heeled Mary Janes from flairvoyant.com 

Yes, here are my new cute obssessions, the ones that actually host some sort of style. High heeled Mary Janes obssession is due to Mary Jane withdrawal since outgrowing my last pair a few years ago. Imagine Dragons is an indie rock band I started listening to, yes I heard their song in a movie trailer, but I still discovered them didn't I? Lena Dunham creator and star of HBO's new hit show Girls. I'll admit I haven't starting watching the show yet, but I've heard great things and I will be watching every old episode once fall starts. Also I'd just like to point out that a creative writing major can make some money. Muha! The bottom three girls are ones that I think are utterly cool for multiple reasons, but mostly for having style, attitude and a whole lot of spunk. 

   

Demons by Imagine Dragons http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSoIWEGL1YM

Elle Fanning from luvimages.com 

Ramona Flower from Scott Pilgrim vs. the World from onlyhdwallpapers.com  

Lena Dunham creator & star of HBO's Girls  from blogs.psychcentral.com 



Member of the Ting Tings from hiddentracks.blogspot.com 



Knight and Day

From alloutabubblegum.com 

Cruise's action/adventure/comedy Knight and Day offers some decent action within a terribly organized script. The movie stars Cameron Diaz as June Havens, a young, everyday bubbly blonde who's making her way back home for her sister's wedding. She unintentionally boards the same plane as rogue government agent, Roy Miller (Tom Cruise). Bullets start flying, action ensues and before you know it this naive little blonde has no idea what she's gotten into. She becomes a pawn in Miller's plan, and a bit of an agent herself, always falling into unfortunate situations with Roy Miller where she is drugged and then expected to perform. This does add a bit of comedy.

However, Roy Miller's charming, charismatic criminal style allows Tom Cruise to rely on his stereotypical charm instead of his well-known talent. His character is reminiscent of criminal cowboy J.D. in Thelma and Louise; and many of the romantic scenes between him and Diaz come off as cheesy Harlequin manuevers. Diaz, however makes a good run of her performance and comes off as very believable and likable. However, Knight and Day fails to be a good action/comedy, simply juxtaposing action sequences with comedy sequences. Although it encompasses some entertaining action  it lacks a proper sequence with no climax.

6.7/10
Skip it :(

The Lily Girl

I love photo shoots with a very romantic, enchanted feel and a picturesque background. So this was mostly inspired by Ralph Lauren's Romance perfume ad, and Miss Dior's new playful campaign. (I know so serious right?) These pictures were taken at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton in case your curious. Previously, I had never thought of pairing this top with this skirt even though it's quite simple.

The top isn't exactly tight fitting and the skirt is A-line with pleats so I was worried about proportions. You don't want to pair a big flowy top with a big flowy skirt. First of all it sounds wrong, and secondly it will make you look infinitely bigger than a circus tent. This top works because it is slender, although not tight fitting, and the frills create a vertical illusion drawing the eye downwards. So watch your proportions; it's simple, just remember don't wear a flowy top and a flowy skirt or a tight top and tight pants. One of each only, moderation is key.

Ralph Lauren Ad from fashionfoiegras.com 

A Spot in the Rain

I really like the bold colors in this outfit, bright colors are popular on the runways as we discussed in our color crash course.  I know I am thoroughly obssessed with my red pants, but what I really like about these pants is their versatility. They're just like your average jeans, -- I actually find them a bit heartier-- and they go well with my skin color. Depending on what you pair them with, you can emphasize the rustic or cherry red undertones.

So if you are considering buying a pair of colored jeans for back to school, consider what colors would actually work well with your skin tone. If you're fair with fair colored hair or light brown hair consider mint, a popular color this season. If you're a redhead, red pants would be a great option or a bold blue. Dark haired girls can try a fun color like pink. And as we're cheering on our Olympians, don't forget to flaunt your colors. Although I realize that these are not my nation's colors, and I assure you Canadians that will be returning to red and white in the short term.  

Tee Off

Today's demonstration is how to wear a baby tee to the office, which I am very proud that I was able to pull off by the way. If you do have an internship in an office environment you're probably thinking you can't wear your school tees to work, luckily you can. It's simple just pair with a cardigan and a pencil skirt or sleek pants. Add variety to your office dressing by emphasizing the patterns on your tees. This is also a great look for school if you have a presentation day, or just want to wear something other than sweats. So refine your girl-next-door t-shirts and wear them every day of the week. 



Summer Days...

In celebration of the last 5 weeks of summer-- (I know no one wants to think of that yet)-- I thought I'd do a preppy look to anticipate back to school looks and the arrival of fall collections in stores. This is a great summery version of a preppy outfit. The first week of September (unless we're condemned) usually contains summerlike weather; so a summery skirt paired with preppy, put together separates is a winning combo. You look ready to work, while still maintaining that summer vibe. So enjoy the last of your summer. ;)

The Dark Knight Rises

from caldev.wordpress.com 

The film commences eight years after the death of D.A. Harvey Dent and Bruce Wayne's role as the city's hero has been revoked. However, this changes once Bane, a new threat enters Gotham along with a mysterious Catwoman. Christopher Nolan creatively reinvents Gotham City to suit the times; that paired with modern themes of capitalism vs. communism, portrayed through the dichotomy of the haves and the havenots and the stock exchange shootout makes this film relevant and relatable. Anne Hathaway brings a defined elegance and stealth action moves to the role of Catwoman. While Joseph Gordon-Levitt also gives a noteworthy performance--as always-- as Blake, a cop who is Batman's ally. Marion Cotillard plays a pivotal role with ease, while Christian Bale's talent withstands the test of time in the third installment of this trilogy. Altogether Nolan completes an epic that not only entertains us, but speaks to us.

8.9/10
See it! :)

Color me Scarlet

From instyle.com 

From instyle.com 

From popsugar.com 

From instyle.com 

From instyle.com 

From instyle.com 

From instyle.com 

So are you a thrillseeker? Are you the gal who loves the highest rollercoaster, going to new places, getting lost in new places, and living like it's your last? Well how about your clothes?  For all my thrillseekers this one's for you. Bright fuschia, neons and head to toe color was a big one on the runways this year; and Blake Lively's red Michael Kors suit (second row left) will definitely be on the fashion recap this year. Summer is a great time to be wearing all out color. If you're worried about looking like a Fruit Loop just start by matching your shirt to your pants, and build on that look. So have fun thrillseekers, don't forget to show your true colors.

Forrest Gump

Filmespolc.hu 

Forrest Gump tells the story of a slow-witted, honest man whose life plays out against the backdrop  of America's most influential decades. This classic tale of a mediocre youngster from Alabama  who becomes an unlikely success is played with an honest simplicity. Academy Award winner Tom Hanks plays Forrest Gump whose adventures range from growing up in 1950s rural Alabama, to fighting in the Vietnam War, living in New York, running across the country and getting into the shrimp business while being ever presently in love with his childhood sweetheart Jenny. Jenny often leads a tumultuous life while trying to deal with emotional struggles resonating from her early childhood. Both of these scenarios require the audience to bring historical & social knowledge to the film as it recaptures pivotal moments in American history.This epic drama/comedy gives an honest, untarnished depiction of American life.



8.5/10
Screen it :) **Forrest Gump won 6 Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Visual Effects, Best Film Editing

Things I'm Into These Days

I think this goes down in history as one of my favorite photo shoot looks. It's hard to capture the beauty of this photograph in words, but I guess that's my job eh? I think the combination of romanticism, the bohemian nature and Swift's classic country twang enhance the elegance of this look.The sunflowers embroidered into the chiffon give off a pastoral feel. While the white boots designed by Jil Sander  portray a modern take on go go boots from the 60s which adds to the bohemian inspirations in this piece topped off by Swift strumming a banjo. The artistic elements and Rodarte's impeccable design are what create the beauty of this piece. Elle Fanning also gets a shout out for wearing this amazing piece, and below is the continuing list of other things I'm into these days.

Taylor Swift featured in Vogue wearing Rodarte silk chiffon and tulle gown

Foster the People http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDTZ7iX4vTQ

Floral Dress from H&M (I <3 bold floral right now!)

Straw Hats, Long Days, Summer Nights

 Usually I find summer trends too relaxed, very "let's throw on a tank top and look good" kind of thing. So I'm pleased to actually find some creativity in the season such as my floral shorts and mad prints that have been filtered down from spring runways.  So send me a picture of what inspires you, because life is what you make of it.

Enchantment

I really love the feminine elements of this outfit. The brown lace over the flowy pink sundress, adorned with pearls really give it a nice feel. I bought the lace sweater from LaSenza Girl way back when there actually was a Lazena Girl. (This is just another example of how when you invest in a classic piece, or a real style winner it can be worn for years, literally. ) Up close the lace sweater has flower patterns sewn into the lace  mesh, and brocade that adorns the bow. I really love and appreciate outfits with feminine details. I also decided to share some pictures of my Dreamboard, which is just a collage of photos that I like, things that I think are beautiful, and photographs & quotes that inspire me.