Shopping Finds #1

While visiting my boyfriend in Orlando, his sister introduced me to a resale and vintage store called Dechoes. From the moment I walked in, I was in love. It's like a hipper Plato's Closet that holds brands like Anthropologie and J.Crew instead of Hollister and American Eagle (at around the same prices if not usually cheaper). I could've spent a whole day looking at everything, but I was a little short on time. I still managed to pick up quite a few nice pieces for myself and my sister though. $90 later, I had bought my sister a vintage leather pencil skirt, a pleated silver H&M skirt, and a speckle-patterned Express dress; for myself, I got a pink Betsey Johnson belt, a vintage plaid wool skirt, a pair of J Brand jeans, and a black and silver Michael Kors dress. Not bad. I can say, without doubt, that I will be back here next time I'm back in Orlando.

Top 5 of 2011: TV

I started out writing a Top 10 list, but it quickly turned into a “List of Shows I Had Time to Watch this Year,” so I cut it back to 5. As expressed in my Top 10 Movies list, this has been a busy year, and that doesn’t bode well for tv-watching - which is why I’ve come to favor half-hour shows over hour-long fare (they’re so much easier to watch during a quick meal between classes or meetings). Here’s what has not only managed to find time in my schedule, but kept me eagerly anticipating more:

1. Community
2. Hart of Dixie
3. Parks and Recreation
4. New Girl
5. Game of Thrones

Note: Doctor Who and maybe Supernatural would definitely/most likely be on the list if I were caught up with them.

Honorable Mention: Modern Family

Oldies but Still Goodies: The Big Bang Theory and How I Met Your Mother

Biggest Disappointment: Glee :(

What were your favorite shows this year?

Top 10 of 2011: Movies

I didn't see as many movies as usual this year. My trip to Europe during the summer and my busy spring and fall semesters didn't help. However, when I did get the chance to head out to the theater, I was usually pleasantly surprised by what I saw. There were quite a films that proved you can be loved by both audiences and critics. Now without further adieu, here are my top 10 favorite movies that were released this year. 

1. X-Men: First Class
2. Midnight in Paris
3. Jane Eyre
4. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
5. Rise of the Planet of the Apes
6. Captain America: The First Avenger
7. Crazy Stupid Love
8. The Muppets
9. Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol
10. Bridesmaids

Note: I'm pretty sure Thor would have been on this list but somehow I still haven't seen it =( Some movies that may have been contenders on the list, but I couldn't find a theater playing them were The Artist, A Dangerous Method, and Melancholia.

What were your favorite movies this year?

Happy Birthday, XOXO, Amanda!

Wow!! Has it really been a year since I've started this blog? Time sure does fly. I regret that I didn't have time to write more often, but hopefully that will change this next semester. I really do enjoy blogging - I've learned and gained a lot of experience through it - but it always seems to find itself being pushed down on my list of priorities =/ One of my New Year's Resolutions is definitely to be consistent with my posts and, of course, post as much as I can. I always have so many ideas and things I want to post, but never get around to it - not anymore. 

Thanks to all those who have ever visited my blog! It really means the world to me. Please come back (and comment! I love those ^_^). This past year was a crazy one, but I'm looking forward to see where this blog will be this time next year (especially since I'll have just graduated FSU after doing my internship in hopefully New York or London). 

Photo manip credit: HERE

My 2011 Christmas Wishlist

My dad texts me nearly every day for me to send him my Christmas List (otherwise, he has no idea what to get me). With so much going on these last weeks before winter break, it wasn't exactly a priority, but now with exams over (WOOT!), I was finally able to sit down and compile my annual list of semi-affordable sought after items. Here's what my most fashionable and practical list to date consisted of:

1. Crosley Portable USB Turntable (Urban Outfitters, $160) - saw this at Urban Thread and fell in love - with this I'll be able to finally listen to all my dad's old ABBA and Beatles vinyl records, as well as my iPod (and it's portable!). Love.
2. Wispy Pointelle Cardigan (Anthropologie, $60) - so pretty and feminine, I can see myself matching this with everything from dresses to jeans.
3. Red Rose Patch Dress (Topshop, $100)- this is one of those dresses that can easily transition from season to season - just throw on a coat and tights and you're ready for the winter!
4. Camino Metallic-Knit Sweater (Marc by Marc Jacobs, $138) - I love the neutral colors on this sweater, and I can definitely dress it up or down.
5. Naked2 Palette (Urban Decay, $50) - speaking of neutral colors...I'm jumping on the bandwagon here, but after seeing the gorgeous colors in the set my Big had, I could care less.
6. Kindle Fire (Amazon.com, $199) - my sister has an iPad and while she loves it, I'd be perfectly content with a Kindle - nothing beats a real paper bound book to me, but it sure is a lot easier to carry around.
7. Day Ladies Black Quilted Victoria Rain Boots (Kembrel, $90) - ever since I moved to Tallahassee I've been looking for the perfect rain boots for me...and I think I finally found them - love the classic black, quilting, and ribbon lacing!
8. Salmon Ballet Pumps (Topshop, $32) - it is so difficult for me to find a truly comfortable pair of flats and Topshop's are like heaven to my feet - I've just about worn out the ones I got in Dublin, so it's about time for a new pair.
9. Community Season 2 on DVD (Amazon.com, $22) - probably one of the most underrated shows on TV right now, every episode surprises me with its sheer creativity and originality. Plus, I love Joel McHale.
10. JewelMint and ShoeMint pieces ($30 and $80, respectively) - just as I got hooked on Kate Bosworth's JewelMint (looking forward to my Nordic necklace in the mail), I learned about the launch of Rachel Bilson's ShoeMint (who, as most of you guys know, I'm obsessed about). Last time I checked all the shoes were sold out, but I seriously can't wait to get my hands on a pair of Rachel-designed, Steven Madden-made shoes.

What else made the list?

1. A good trench coat - this is one thing sorely missing from my wardrobe. Since I can't exactly shell out $1,000+ for Burberry, I've been looking at alternatives. I really love Anthropologie's Elevenses Pansy Corset Trench - it's so unique and lovely with the print and lacing!
2. Jeffrey Campbell Taupe Suede Litas (Urban Outfitters, $160) - I've heard nothing good things about these shoes, and I can't wait to own a pair myself. Yeah, they're a little pricey, but they're definitely worth the investment!
3. Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception for PS3 - because this is probably my favorite PS3 game series and you can expect me to devote a good chunk of time towards playing it - and my sister is right, the guy from Psych does look like the game character.
4. Art of Catwalk 90-Day Membership (Art of the Catwalk, $180) - my old membership expired this semester (I remember when it was only $300 for a whole year) and I miss it so much. Two of my littles have recently started going and it's made me realize just how much I miss it. I only have about 3 months left here anyway and I'll have a lot more free time next semester, so why not?
5. Supernatural: The Anime Series on Blu-Ray (Amazon.com, $32) - it's Supernatural and anime - how do I not already own this?

What's on your list this year?

Gift Guide: Cat Lovers

I am a self-professed cat lover. They have been my favorite animal for as long as I can remember and, at one point, my family had 10 of them (and only 1 was an outdoor cat). I know I’m not the only one obsessed with these adorable creatures, so I’ve put together a gift guide that will make the cat lover in your life purr.

1. Angel Eye Print Dress (ASOS, $45)
2. Measuring Cups (Urban Outfitters, $24)
3. Paul & Joe Lipstick (Urban Outfitters, $25)
4. Peter Jensen Sweater (Urban Outfitters, $59)
5. Height of the Morning Mug in Cat (Modcloth, $28)
6. Cat Pillow (Urban Outfitters, $19)
7. Intarsia Sweater (ASOS, $136)
8. Cat & Mouse Scarf – (ASOS, $89)
9. Dolly Cat Sweater (ASOS, $72)
10. Beanie (ASOS, $22)
11. Soap Dispenser (Urban Outfitters, $14)
12. Cutting Board (Urban Outfitters, $16)
13. Necklace (Forever21, $8)
14. Pillow Pet (Target, $13)
15. Mini Print Scarf (ASOS, $33)

2011 Emmy Awards: Best Dressed

The Primetime Emmy Awards is one of my favorite award shows. Not because the show itself is anything special - it was actually a bit of a snoozefest this year - but because I probably know and, thus, root for the nominees more than I do for, say, the Oscars or Grammys. Plus, I love seeing all my favorite TV stars all glammed up on the red carpet. While I've been pretty underwhelmed with a lot of this year's red carpet fashion, I was happily surprised with the Emmys. The actors really stepped up their game. The color of the night was definitely red, and sparkles (via sequins and beading) were a big trend. On to my favorite looks:

#1 – Nina Dobrev – Donna Karan

Nina Dobrev tops my best dressed list yet again! She looked drop dead gorgeous in a strapless red mermaid gown by Donna Karan. I love that the gown is all at once simple yet complex. I can’t stop looking at the hem – is it ruffles? layers? pleats? - it’s just so unique. Her hair, makeup, and accessories are also flawless, as usual. With such a showstopping gown, she was smart and kept accessories at a mininum with an impressive Neil Lane necklace and a Judith Leiber clutch. Perfect waves and smokey eyes complete this Emmy-worthy look.

 #2 – Julia Stiles – Georges Hobeika

Julia Stiles has been making some great fashion choices and the Emmys was no different. I adored her lavender lace George Hobeika gown. The pretty color perfectly complements her fair skin tone. I also love the juxtaposition of the edgy black nails and metallic Kotur clutch with the soft and very feminine gown and loose waves. Her makeup is spot-on with dark smokey eyes and light pink lips.

#3 – Jennifer Carpenter – Tony Ward Couture

Glitzy beading was a big trend at the Emmys and no one did it better than Jennifer Carpenter who stunned in a blush beaded gown by Tony Ward Couture accompanied by Martin Katz jewelry. With a thigh high slit and plunging neckline, it was definitely one of the most provocative gowns on the red carpet, but she manages to pull it off and still look classy. I also love her loose, ombre' waves and makeup. 

#4 – Sofia Vergara – Vera Wang

The beautiful Sofia Vergara showed off her curves in a coral one-shouldered gown by Vera Wang. The color is very flattering, and I like the ruching of the chiffon. She said the most exciting part of her outfit were her “Columbia emeralds” and I have to agree – they’re fabulous! Her hair was done is long waves and her makeup consisted of dramatic eyes and bright red lips.

#5 – Cat Deeley – Monique Lhuillier

You can tell Cat loves to have fun with fashion, whether on her show or at a fashion event. At the Emmys, she wore a beautiful gold-flecked beaded and tulle strapless gown by Monique Lhulier. I love how the beading starts dense at the top and spreads out as it goes down, creating a somewhat ombre' effect. She completes her look with beachy waves, fresh makeup, and Bulgari diamonds.

 #6 – Claire Danes – Oscar de la Renta

Claire Danes wore a blue and black sequinned Oscar de la Renta column gown. I love the colors and patterns and how it pops against her skin and blonde hair. Speaking of which, her hair looks amazing, but I think her makeup is a little too much. The dark eyes and red lips together is a bit harsh for her and makes her look older. This is the only negative in an otherwise great look.

 #7 – Kerry Washington – Zuhair Murad

Kerry Washington looked fierce and glamourous in a strapless Zuhair Murad gown with matching scarlet Jimmy Choo shoes and clutch. I love the shape of the neckline, the beaded bodice, and the shirred bottom. Her hair is retro chic and her makeup is sheer perfection with big lashes and bold red lips -  and can I just point out how flawless her complexion is?

 #8 - Elisabeth Moss - Marchesa

Elisabeth Moss looked lovely in a fabulous gold and nude Marchesa gown. I especially love how the embroidery gives the illusion of sleeves and the pattern as it goes down the gown is beautiful. I'm a fan of her fresh and light makeup, but not so much her matronly hair.

#9 – Evan Rachel Wood – Elie Saab

Evan Rachel Wood channeled Old Hollywood with a black bead-encrusted Elie Saab gown, Fred Leighton jewels, and a Judith Leiber bag. I'm not a huge fan of cap sleeves, but I like the exposed back. Her glowing porcelain skin, retro hair, and red lips finished off the look.

#10 - Julie Bowen - Oscar de la Renta

Emmy winner Julie Bowen shined in a silver embellished column gown by Oscar de la Renta. It showed off her perfectly toned body and she quite literally looks like she's glowing. Her silver smokey makeup and sleek ponytail are the perfect touches to the outfit.

Honorable Mentions - Aubrey Plaza & Jane Lynch

Along with my Top 10 choices, I wanted to include Aubrey Plaza and Jane Lynch. Aubrey Plaza looks divine in an all white Juan Carlos Obando gown. The halter neckline shows off her great shoulders, and her hair and makeup add a touch of sultriness to this sweet ensemble. Jane looked better than ever in a deep purple David Meister gown that was simple, elegant and oh so flattering. Her hair and makeup are stellar and the Lorraine Schwartz jewels are just the right accessories to finish the look. Bravo, ladies!

Did I leave anybody out? What were your favorite outfits?

2011 MET Gala: Worst Dressed

And with every Best Dressed list comes a Worst Dressed... Here's who needs to fire their stylist.

#10 - Freida Pinto - Chanel 

#9 - Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen - Vintage and Christian Dior

#8 - Fergie - Marchesa

#7 - Rihanna - Stella McCartney

#6 - Rashida Jones - Stella McCartney

#5 - Chloe Sevigny - Alexander McQueen

#4 - Naomi Campbell - Alexander McQueen

#3 - Solange Knowles - Dries Van Noten

#2 - Christina Ricci - Zac Posen

#1 - Kristen Stewart - Proenza Schouler

Let me know if you agree or disagree! Also, you might have noticed - I posted twice in one day!! Shocking!  Well, I wanted to make sure I squeezed in this last red carpet event before I leave tomorrow for a 5 week backpacking trip with two friends in Europe. Don't expect any posts for at least a month since I won't be taking my laptop with me. No worries though, I'm sure I'll have tons to write about once I get back! Just don't forget about me! Now, off to continue packing!

2011 Oscars: Best Dressed

So with a hectic week of exams and a busy Spring Break schedule (Miami and Orlando!), I fell a little behind with my blogging. This post is over a week late, but I still wanted to share my thoughts on the fashion at the Academy Awards since it is THE red carpet event of the season. 

#1 - Natalie Portman - Rodarte

The soon-to-be mother and well-deserved Best Actress winner looked radiant in this gorgeous, deep purple gown which perfectly complimented her skin tone.

#2 - Anne Hathaway - Atelier Versace

This gown with its fitted and embroidered bodice was my favorite of Anne's many wardrobe changes. I also loved the red strapless Valentino gown she wore on the red carpet. Kudos to her stylist Rachel Zoe.

#3 - Mila Kunis - Elie Saab Haute Couture

Some critics thought the color washed her out, but I disagree. I think the color and gown look lovely on her. 

#4 - Mandy Moore - Monique Lhuiller

Mandy was the epitome of elegance and sophistication in this sparkling nude gown.

#5 - Gwyneth Paltrow - Calvin Klein

Gwyneth looked stunning in this chic metallic gown, complete with effortlessly slick-straight hair.

#5 - Hilary Swank - Gucci Premiere

The two-time Oscar winner exuded glamour in this silver embellished gown. Usually, I'm not a fan of anything with feathers but here it works.

#6 - Hailee Steinfeld - Marchesa

I love it when young stars dress their age, and Hailee's fashion choices have really been a breath of fresh air. She looked incredibly youthful and still ladylike in this custom-made tea-length dress.

#8 - Helen Mirren - Vivienne Westwood

Speaking of dressing well for their age, nobody does it better than Helen Mirren. She always gets its right. Simply classy.

#9 - Jennifer Hudson - Versace

Jennifer wowed everyone in this stunning orange halter gown which showed off her new toned figure.

#10 - Reese Witherspoon - Giorgio Armani Prive

Although not the most innovative design, the simple and classic black and white gown nonetheless looked stunning on the former Oscar winner.  

2011 BAFTAs: Fashion Highlights

The King's Speech dominated at the BAFTAs, picking up pretty much every imaginable award (although The Social Network and Inception put up a good fight). But while the awards were all about the King, let's see who was the Queen of the red carpet. Here are some highlights:

 Jessica Alba - Versace (My favorite of the night!)

 Rosamund Pike - Alexander McQueen

Amy Adams - Elie Saab

 Emma Watson - Valentino

 Noomi Rapace - Givenchy

 Rachel Stevens - Isabel Morant

Emma Stone - Lanvin

2011 Fall Fashion Week: Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier, a designer known for her classy, femininelooks opened her 2011 fall show with a leopard print dress. The surprisingopening was followed by a parade of blacks, golds, and splashes of red in lace,sequins, and chiffon. The collection had a very sultry and mature feel to it, although theblack velvet bows around the waist of many of the looks (and in the hair of allthe models) gave the designs a girly touch.

We’re also seeing more of the purple eyeshadow, berry lips,and cat-eye liner makeup trend that we saw at the Grammys.

I wonder which celebs will wear these red-carpet ready looks? Perhaps Julia Stiles and Brittany Snow who were seated front row at the show?

My favorite look off the runway? The flowing red chiffongown (pictured first). How stunning would this look on the red carpet? Here are just a few other highlights (obviously I’m a gown girl).