Sole Mates: Custom Ballet Flats

{images via here}

This Spring I'm on the hunt for the perfect ballet flat in a myriad of colors.  Sadly, my last pair, which was the perfect shell pink, only made it a few months since I wore them into the ground.  Of course, I've been researching my options and have become enamored with Repetto.  They offer custom made flats that allow you to not only choose the color of the slipper, but the contrasting grosgrain ribbon and laces.  Once you've constructed your personalized shoe they're shipped off to Repetto's workshop in Saint-Médard-d'Excideui (that would be France) and 3 weeks later you're presented with the finest ballet flat.  Now, the caveat is that this service is only offered in their Rue de la Paix store in Paris and starts around 280 euros.  So to convert it to USD if I carry the 1 that would mean it's....expensive.  Customization aside, these ballet flats might still have to be a Spring purchase.

Spring Scallops

{images via here, here, here....and here}

I've always had a weakness for scallops since they instantly add a feminine aspect to any ensemble and serve as my springtime staple.  With this season's onslaught of pastels I'm leaning towards the softer looks above, but designers such as my favorite surly-faced Brit (aka Victoria Beckham) are offering bolder versions.

Aztec Inspiration x Gold Hardware

{images via here}

 Lately I've been on an Aussie label hunt and stumbled across this amazing printed, racer back dress by Talulah.  Naturally, these photos also put me in a frenzy to find double gold cuffs and an accompanying metal belt.  However, the caveat is that these purchases need to be made on a shoestring budget so that I don't have any guilt once I discard them like last season's poncho reincarnation.  Always up for the online shopping challenge I scoured websites for baubles that would help re-create this look without appearing like a Kardashian doppelganger.  OK, who am I kidding I love those Kardashians

{1. double gold cuffs, 2. metal belt}

NYFW: Street Style

{images via Elle, Vogue}

Possibly more exciting than the shows themselves is the style seen pounding the pavement in Miu Miu booties (a la TheManRepeller) during NYFW.  Of course, in order to get snapped by the photogs you have to dress the part.  In comes pops of color, excessive amounts of bling and statement making bags to catch the eye of the cameras.  Below, are some noteworthy bits and baubles that demand attention. 

 

{1. statement necklace, 2. clutch, 3. leather pumps, 4. spiked bracelets}

Valentine's Day Playlist

So based upon the source that I got this adorable DIY you might just end up with the same Valentine as several other kindergartners.  However, this involves minimal time and effort and since I'm not crafty in the slightest this is right up my alley.  All you have to do is wrap a box of candy hearts in construction paper, print out a playlist from here to glue to the front, then add 2 hersey kisses with string as the ear buds (I'm assuming this involves copious amounts of glue and/or tape).  Now, the fun part is personalizing your playlist.  Of course you can always go with the pre-made option, but what's the fun in that?  All you need is a little Adele, a little Whitney (as more of a tribute) and you're all set to either hand off to your BF or to Tommy Cuteboy who sits in the cubicle next to you.

Mint Condition

I usually shy away from the cooler end of the color spectrum, but with mint and seafoam greens turning up for Spring I can't seem to resist.  I love the idea of these pops of color (that would be P.O.C to all you Brad Goreski fans) paired off of neutrals.

{images via Pink Wallpaper, crepe wool dress, cable-knit sweater, maxi skirt, studded loafers, mint denim shorts}

 

Wu-ed by Target

    It was a chilly Sunday morning in February.  I awoke unusually early giddy with anticipation.  Throwing on Lululemon capris, a down puffer and running shoes (comfortable clothing and footwear would be of the up-most importance) I headed to Target for the premier of Jason Wu for Target.  I had been prepping for this moment for weeks - lifting weights in case it came down to hand-to-hand combat over a pleated chiffon skirt, and chugging Gatorade and downing protein bars for endurance.  Actually, no I had decided the night before that I would give it a go because usually I'm the schmuck who ends up horribly overpaying on ebay for designer collaborations from H&M and Target (i.e. conscious collection and Cynthia Vincent).
    Sick and tired of being sick and tired I headed to the store about 15 min prior to opening and I have to say I had really underestimated my fellow Mid-westerners and was not expecting a line that long (and yes, we were all clad in our capris and running shoes.)  Now anxiety-ridden due to the large crowd I filed in (OK, sprinted - I got caught up in the moment) once the doors opened,  I have to say that I was fairly impressed with the collection and felt a sense of satisfaction leaving the store this morning with my spoils in hand knowing that I wouldn't have to troll ebay and pay twice the price for my $34 stripe tee.  All in all it was worth it.