Marni Mondays: Oh My!

Look 12

Look 27

Look 34

Here are my selects from Moda Operandi's trunk show by Marni. There is a lot going on with each of these looks, but I just can't seem to be all that negative about them. In looking at the colors, prints and structures alone, the collection is gorgeous. That is one of the many reasons I've such a fan. Great attention to detail is always seen in each and every collection.  Personally, these looks are a bit much for me, somewhat overwhelming with the various lengths. The print on look 27 is stunning and would have loved to seen the dress a tiny bit shorter and a little more fitting to the body. That is based on my personal size and age. Curious to see what is pre-ordered from this sale which ends tomorrow. Happy Monday. 

Powerful Style

Photography by: Ben Hassett  

Styled by: Kathryn Neale

Should I be so lucky to look like the stunning Jennifer Connelly at 43-years old. She is at the top of my list of favorite actors/actresses. The first movie I saw starring Connelly was Career Opportunities and after that was Seven Minutes in Heaven. From that moment on she would be on my radar forever. In all her interviews she comes across as being down to earth, genuine and incredibly poised. I could honestly go on and on about her (not in a scary way). Go check out her interview in the Spring 2014  issue of DUJOUR and on Net-A-Porter

Los Angeles Metro Rail

Crenshaw Transit Corridor 

Crenshaw Transit Corridor 

Metro Rapid 

Metro Rapid 

Regional Connector Transit Corridor 

Regional Connector Transit Corridor 

While working on a freelance gig I came across these studies of the Los Angeles Metro Rail. The project has been somewhat of a giant review of the city I have spent most of my life in. With life being so busy you tend to forget about what makes your city attractive. Since I spend most of my time in the car commuting to and from work and or social events these studies are rather romantic. I often daydream what the city would be like with a great public transportation system similar to NYC, Chicago or D.C. Or would it even make my life that much easier. Every day I think to myself, 'where are all these people going?' It never makes sense to me, nor will it ever. How many hours do you spend in your vehicle? 

On another note please go to Graham and Brown's website to check out my first post as a guest blogger. Very exciting and more to come. TGIF. Have a great weekend. 

Printed Packs

The other night while at dinner, my good friend announced he was driving up to Big Sur for a camping trip with his girlfriend. It got me really thinking about why I have never been one for camping. Mainly it boils down to the fact that I am scaredy cat about animals (bears, tigers, etc.) and of course insects. Some may find it hard to believe, but it has nothing to do with dirt or not being able to have access to a proper bathroom. Well actual that is a lie, not being able to shower for a couple of days would drive me nuts. People are always going and seeming as though they have a blast. Couples go for a romantic get-away and families go as a way to spend time with one another. All of that sounds so nice and happy, but it just doesn't get me packing up the tent or sleeping bag. With that being said glamping just seems silly, like why even go at all. I understand the concept of glamping it just seems to defeat the purpose. Maybe one day I will hop the fence and try a camping adventure. Now if you give me one of these printed packs, I may move a lot faster. Happy hump day! 

Campgrounds I may explore in the far future: 

Butano State Park 

Parson's Landing

Lassen Volcanic National Park 

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur

Anini Beach Park

Brushstrokes

You may or may not know that I am a huge Zara fan. The company is an international success for obvious reasons. Although, some argue that the quality does not match the price tag. Sure, one could say that, but it's not H&M nor is it a top designer. Some of my best and timeless pieces are from Zara. These brushstroke like prints caught my attention when viewing the new collection. The collars and wide sleeves also make each piece. The shirt which can be see here has a beautiful opening in the back. Purchasing a piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down is a bonus. I often think about a couple different options of ways to wear an item before purchasing it. This dress would be one of those. For me pairing it with my black sequin high top Converse would be more for a causal, edgy look. Of course ballet flats, a Levi's jean jacket, chunky knitwear or booties would also work. In fall I may even pair it with a pair of skinny denims and belt it. Pumps or ankle booties would help glam it up with some accessories. Zara has great items this season and worth checking them out or even going to try on some pieces. Which brings me to my last thought, sometimes you may not be in the market for purchasing, but having fun and trying clothing on can also be inspirational. I've been a victim to this many of times and go home and realize there are combinations similar to what's in the stores that can be created. 

Love Yourself

Images courtesy of Pinterest and Tumblr

I must be honest Valentine's Day has never really been my cup of tea. Yes, I am one of those who believe that you should love and shower your loved one with gifts all year long. The day always seems to make those single people feel "left out" and those in a relationship honored to have someone to spend the day with. For those without a valentine, enjoy your day, do something for yourself. Rent a movie and drink champagne, go for a hike, read that book that has been on your nightstand for months, go dancing with friends. For those of you with a valentine, enjoy your day together and remember all the other days you spend and will spend together. Today is dedicated to loving yourself. "Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world." - Lucille Ball