Pourquoi Pas... Have Some Office Fashionspiration?

Why not have some office inspiration? Correction. Fashionspiration! It is summer and its hot. This becomes a time of year that is rather hard to dress for the office because nothing comfortable inside (or professional for that matter) is comfortable outside. In fact, it all too often seems to be your demise as you sweat your way to the subway...or car.

Lucky for me, I finally work in fashion where my outfit below is totally legit and praised (ahhh finally) but I remember the conservative office I came from in Charlotte where it was hot as the dickens and they wanted you in a suit! umm no. Here is an easy office to outside wardrobe transition! A Blazer. The working girl's best friend. It is to a point of comical how almost anything, with a blazer added, can look professional.

For your conservative offices try a strapless jumpsuit or a breezy dress. Either way, with the blazer on in the office you are ready for business, but after you walk out those doors, the wayfarers can go on and the party can be started!

Fashion Feature: Papercut Magazine

I have a fashion feature in Papercut Magazine mes cheris! You may or may not have picked up on my not so minor obsession with head wear. Hats, turbans, scarves... I just love the option to play up your outfit through an accessory so seldom chosen nowadays.

Give it a read and tell me... 

What is your favorite head wear for this season?

Clothing DIY: Upcycle Your Tshirt

After waiting far too long for Spring to arrive, I had a clothing DIY weekend! Over the years I have acquired a large amount of fitted tees and rather than throw things away I was inspired to upcycle my tshirt. Fun as well as reducing my need to spend money shopping...win, win!

Here is a casual baseball long sleeve tee that was a gift of love...but it is just not my style. Here are some simple step by step rules for a clothing DIY overhaul for you:

1. Cut

Being scissor happy is Clothing DIY Guideline numero uno! Cut off the sleeves and sew the hem back (I decided to lave a trim of the navy blue along edge). From the sleeves, cut out as many ping pong ball sized circles as possible, then slit the circles all the way around. When you upcycle your tshirt you always want to try and use as much of the fabric as possible...hello? free fabric!

2. Embellish

Stack 3-4 circles at a time and hand sew them onto the shirt, place them close together so they gather. I placed mine strategically over the insignia branding the shirt, and then went from there.

Once all pieces are in place, ruffle them up by finger-combing them. Get them to stand up and look messy, this will create the wild flourish effect.

Et voila! Upcycle that tshirt into a clothing DIY dream! For either a casual look paired with these Anthropologie pants I've had waiting in my closet for Spring to arrive, or a flirty look like this Leifsdotter maxi skirt from Neiman Marcus.

Have you ever Clothing DIYed 

your wardrobe mes cheris?

Not a Fan: Not Every Trend is for Everyone

Trends come and go, some stay for a good decade, not a fan? don't worry, some only make it for 6 months before people are screaming Sianara! Adios! The big thing to remember is they are trends...not style...which means not every trend is for everyone. There are many things that grace the glossy features of InStyle that I personally would never wear, or could never wear given my size, shape, coloring...etc.

There is one fashion trend that I have been cringing at for almost a decade now...and its still the vain of my existence...OK maybe not that dramatic but I hate UGG boots! UGGs are a shapeless, unimaginative shoe design that has Smoke&Mirrored their way around real shoe designer labels for far too long. And too grab your Bedazzler gun, add some glitter and stick an extra zero on the price tag is not creating a better model...its just sad that that is what you deem as quality shoe work.

Many use the excuse that they are so comfortable. This may be extremely true...but so are bedroom slippers and pajamas and those are also things that should not leave your house. Just because something is comfortable doesn't give you reign to gallivant around all day in it, there are other clothing options that serve the same purpose while still remaining clothes. Yes I'm talking to you, people who think pajamas on a plane are cool...its a few hours, you can do it at work and school, you will survive snacking and watching a movie in one chair in a real outfit.

To the credit of the UGG company, I will make this note: They have done a worthy job diversifying outside of their original product. Beyond the Bedazzler they have chic sandals that I wouldn't mind strutting down Central Park West in, and they have expanded their fine sheepskin into some fabulous home and clothing options! Go UGG! {photos from UGG Website}

     

Pourquoi Pas?

Why not have a Blog Feature mes cheries? Well here you go! I was so honored to be asked by the people of 24Blogazine on What to Wear for Spring...so hop on over and get your wardrobe Spring Fashion Ready!

The Embellished Life Feature

Photographer: Truc Nguyen

What will you be wearing this Spring?


Rather Interesting Event Experience
On a side note my darlings...not every event I go to is glamorous and amiable...this past weekend I attended a Trunk Show that I received an invitation to for Chloe & Reese.

Now let me sidebar to tell you I am a FIRM believer in never being "too big for your britches" for those of you not from the South, that means you should never act bigger than you are. I don't believe anyone, no matter how famous or what high end industry you work in, is EVER above being a decent human being. The unfortunate thing in NYC is it tends to attract many 'nobodies' that think they're 'somebodies' and feel the need to exert that on everyone else. You are NEVER above decent manners, people are people, and you should always treat them with your respect and attention. Case in point: Charlie Sheen and John Galliano... you are not above human decency no matter who you are.

So I arrive at the Chloe & Reese event expecting to learn about the line, mingle with the attendees and snap some photos for you. Boy was I wrong. I felt like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman when the Sales Lady on Rodeo Drive would not help her. These women running the event were like and who are you? And I happily told them I'm a blogger, and I received the invitation and was excited to learn more about the line. And the conversation proceeded to go like this...

Snooty Staff Girl: Oh no no no this is not a press event, this is a closed private event.
Me: Oh I'm sorry, I'm just always asked to cover events, so when I received the invitation I assumed it was OK.
Snooty Staff Girl: Hmm well this is a private "undergound" event and the people here know the designer personally, I'm not really sure how you got the invitation but this is not an event we are publicizing.
Me: um...OK well I just thought I would do a feature on the line, the invitation never mentioned any restrictions.

...and after browsing around the room at the pieces for a few minutes and generally being ignored, I grabbed my coat and left...awkward.

My fabulous blogger friend Nubia of Nubia's Nonsense had an even worse experience than me with this group of women be sure to check out her story HERE. I was appalled that they would allow such an image to extend from this brand, I am a marketing professional in my career and this behavior is NOT acceptable for brand management.
So just an FYI to all of you about the line Chloe & Reese. Beware.

Violence Against Women: Fashion Organization challenging Sex Trafficking

Violence against women has long been a problem that has been fought hard in developed countries. And as much as I love fashion, and blogging to you everyday about the various ways it can inspire you, none will every touch me more deeply than living for a cause. In many underdeveloped countries sex trafficking is a heavy threat to women, and today I wanted to share with you an organization that is changing lives. I recently met Supei Liu and discovered her organization that I was quickly enamored with, as it helps rescue hurting women through fashion.

The Nomi Network was co-founded by Supei. After many years of working in fashion retail in New York City, Supei told me she visited various manufacturing plants in Cambodia for fashion buying, and was touched by the sex trafficking problem that was brought to her attention, and from there her direction changed.

Nomi Network is a non-profit organization that aims to leverage the marketplace, film, and fashion to eradicate human trafficking. We aim to increase the financial independence of women who are vulnerable to or survivors of sex trafficking.

Buy Her Bag Not her Body is created by Nomi Network. 

We've created a partnership between the fashion industry and cause-driven, well-designed merchandise made by at-risk women and survivors of sexual exploitation, providing them with fair, sustainable employment opportunities. Supported by people like you, our stylish, high quality products don't just look good, they do good. 100% of the profit is reinvested into training and career development programs for women. For more information about our work, please visit our website at www.nominetwork.org.

Repurposed from Vietnam Rice Bags these totes, cosmetic bags, laptop cases, etc. exemplify how fashion can have a heart. I personally love the top bag with the Nomi slogan because I believe it is very catching and concise as well as well designed!  But you may be in the market for a new makeup bag or gym bag....

The products are actually extremely well designed and well priced and 100% of the proceeds go to rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating girls and women that are victims of the sex trafficking trade. The best part is, the women benefitting from this foundation...are making the bags you are buying! You are actually directly impacting their life! I personally can't imagine a better organization to support!

BUY HER BAG NOT HER BODY... TODAY.

Don't Forget to Vote!

Dear Lovelies,

The Lovelies Awards are getting closer to a close and I could really use some help s'il vous plait!
Bloggers are nothing without their community, in fact its the thing that keeps us going, and you Embellishers are fantastic! So please click me a favor that will take 2 seconds :) I appreciate it more than I can say!

Go HERE to The Lovelies: Fashion Blog Category

and Vote for The Embellished Life!

Enjoy the dreamy inspiration via Flikr!

Working Fashionista Girl

I'm not sure if I will ever get used to the constant spinning of New York. Every night, even in the dead of Winter, you have the potential to stumble into something exciting! Well rather than stumble, I have an event for you to purposefully march your proud Choos into; ready to mingle.

Kicking off New York Fashion Week Wednesday Night is Fashion, Fun, and Focus on Business! With keynote speaker and entrepreneurial extraordinaire Carol Roth, author of The Entrepreneur Equation, this event will get you off on the right foot for Lincoln Center!

Date: Wednesday Feb 9th, 2011
Time: 5:00pm - 9:30pm
Location: District 36 Nightclub
West 36th st between 5th & 6th ave
Price: $35

What's There?
- Fabulous networking with over 400 of New York's finest entrepreneurs and small business owners.
- Gourmet Buffet Dinner
- Interactive Fashion Show
- Support Dress for Success to help disadvantaged women
- Swag bag worth over $100
- Mailed copy of The Entrepreneur Equation
- Entrance into door raffle

Hold up. Did that say Fashion Show? That's right! Tuc+Wes, a super hip line of convertible clothing will be interacting with the guests throughout the night in a unique fashion show!

{photos from their respective linked sites}

So take a break from hibernating for one week. Enjoy fashion week, kicked off in a whirlwind of networking and opportunity, and strut confidently to 66th Street knowing you are rocking Lincoln Center!

I will be there...who's joining me?!

Au Revoir 2010

This year has seemed to have flown by! From staying alone in Warsaw last year, unable to be close to any friends and family...to this year living my dream and snagging a party to watch the ball drop live in NYC... I must say words cannot properly express my elation over the past few months.

I think we're raised to be synical...dream big, but don't get your hopes up because all too often things are not what they seem. Normally this tactic works, as it shelters us from a whole array of disappointing outcomes, but every once and a while you will find yourself pleasantly surprised with sheer happiness. New York has been my surprise, since the days of dress up in my mother's high heels I have dreamed of being a New Yorker. I couldn't wait to prance across town hailing cabs and climbing career ladders... all in the highest of styles of course ;)

This city certainly hazes anyone who dares try to live here, but once you make it in, its absolutely fabulous. So this New Year's I have a bounty of greatness to celebrate. Dreams come true, home sweet home established, and new adventures to embark upon. My favorite thing about New Year's is the look back of the last year, and how many incredible changes can happen in just 365 days. I am sure 2011 will bring about some changes of its own and personally cannot wait set out on the next 365 adventure!

Here is my recap of 2010... what is yours darlings?

{merci weheartit for the photo love}

 Rang in the New Year in a new country!

 Traveled to 4 new countries!

Fell in love in a romantic city!

Life long goal realized!

Not bad. No pressure 2011...

Cyber Monday DEAL!

Did you have a fabulous Thanksgiving break darlings? I hope you got to eat a great meal and then shop to your little heart's content. I certainly enjoyed my break and am energized to be back to work and routine!

Here are some of my favorites from Embellished. I hope they start your Cyber Monday off right!

Something for the Fashionista...

For the Anthropologie Fanatic...

For the Rockstar at heart...

Mention this post and get 10% off your purchase!

Revamping in High Gear

I would like to personally thank you all for hangin' in there as I have needed so much time for transition. I am literally giddy every time I think about all the places I want to take The Embellished Life and cannot wait to set foot on this next leg of the adventure.

Blogging is very fulfilling to me. It allows me an opportunity to interact with wonderful writers, artisans, and fashionistas from all over the world and at the same time it gives me an outlet for my many passions. The fact that I get to write (which I love) about fashion and travel (which I'm obsessed with) and share beautiful things with you everyday warms my heart!

I have high hopes for The Embellished Life and cannot wait to see how the next year blossoms. But I know what I want...what I want to know is what you want to see from me?! How else do you want to be inspired to embellish your life? Here is your time to have your voice heard!

Please send me great vibes at ideas!

Pitch me your art, your shop, your fashionable ways!

Do you have a Travel Confession? Fashionspiration?

Life is beautiful when we are all in it together.

I look forward to hearing from you!

embrace being unique.

Jessica

Guest Blogger Challenge

I beg your pardon for my absent lately mes cheries. I am in the middle of relocating to the whirlwind city of Manhattan and it is proving to be have quite a lot of bumps along the way. Is moving ever easy? I don't think so, but it seems that Manhattan is quite a closed door city!

So while I wind through my hectic yellow brick road to Gotham, I am calling all you Embellishers to a challenge! I would like to give the reigns over to you guys to be guest bloggers while I am in the middle of moving!

{thanks weheartit for all the photo love}

HOW TO BE A GUEST BLOGGER?

Send me your Guest Blog Post on the topic of your choice via email.

WHAT TO WRITE ABOUT?

Pick from an array of things related to Fashion, Music, Pop Culture, Travel, Inspiration, Art, Love, Life, etc. Keep it upbeat and motivational of course and if you don't have the right photos I can help you out there :)

You can even write a post for one of your Embellished Life favorites if you wish: Pourquoi Pas, Travel Confession, Fashion 101, Fashionspiration! Have fun, get creative, and share your flair for what makes you, YOU!

WHEN TO SEND?

NOW! You can begin sending them in right away, and keep them coming, this will be a fantastic way to see how you all Embellish your lives every day!

I cannot wait to see what you dazzle me with darlings!

So get typing!

All Roads Lead to Rome

The craziest thing is to visit a place where you stop to rest, look down, and realize you are sitting on a piece of an ancient column that could possibly date back to 300 BC or later! This is Rome darlings, once the greatest empire in the world. Starting with just one city, the Roman Empire eventually spread across the whole of Northern Africa, and all the way up to England and everything in between. We can thank Rome for concrete, domes, arches, glass blowing and even wine and oil presses!

Many ruins throughout the city left you wondering what great things they had seen.

What untold stories could they tell of love, country, war, and lessons learned?

The Pantheon as well as the many sculptures around town

made your whole experience a dream.

I loved that this was just a foot, I wonder what the original sculpture was? Either way good feet were much needed to mount all the stairs at the Spanish Steps. Not to mention dance on them, another thing to check off my Bucket List. Its funny how most of my list involves travel...?

The Trevi Fountain was my favorite. You throw in 1 coin for A Return Trip to Rome, 2 coins for a Great Romance, and 3 coins for a Great Romance...and I must attest that it totally worked! The last 2 at least!

The Colosseum was my surreal moment of the trip where I thought, OMG I'm in Rome!

It was sobering to think of how many people were killed on the ground I stood.

Thank you for joining me in Roma darlings! I hope you enjoyed your stay and get to go for real, real soon. Italy is a magical place that will sweep you away with beauty, embrace you with family, and fill you with incredible food and wine.

Salute darlings!