Planning ahead

Since I still can't fully move around yet, and the weather outside isn't necessarily inviting to ootd, I decided to curate some look I would love to wear once I'm 100%. Need Supply sent me these Outsider Pants I've been DREAMING ABOUT. Ya know how in my last post, I was talking about a more "relaxed" look in 2014? These guys definitely scream tailored comfort, is that a real thing? Anyways...For the first look I was thinking something a little bit more sleek, like all black, even though the pants are navy. I think the boots and glasses, with the clutch say work day, but with a gallery opening in the evening, right? Look two is very BLARGH with the vintage suit jacket, shoes, and blouse. Which look do you like more?

inside the actor

on to the audition by avecbianca featuring a slouchy trousers

All month I've been recalculating my look for 2014. Don't worry I still love 70s-90s style, but each year I like to redefine and curate my look. Plus after dumping out 2/3rds of my clothes last summer I have been carefully selecting out pieces that I really want that can translate into many different looks. The look I have been really into recently is the "struggling actor" not saying that something I want to be (the struggling part) but I love the attitude that comes with an earnest young actor hungry for work. Lots of layers, simple colors that don't compete, a little bit of flair and attitude like brown lipstick, berets, and scarves. (those auditioning rooms are mighty cold) and of course character driven glasses. This also goes with the whole freelancer ideology I have slipped into, because isn't an actor nothing more than a permanent freelancer?

I also compiled the pieces that would make a great actor's look, full of yummy sweaters easy to move and dance in, relaxed but structured pants, great shoes, and accessories, to create any character you want to be.

Dracula's Cape

Some of you guys were curious about my coat in my last post! I found this guy on my trip to Michigan a few weekends ago. I absolutely adore it! It's quickly has become a favorite which is surprising to me because I used to only wear bright colorful coats. Recently I've opted for that simple clothing with fun portions (always Japanese influenced) and I cannot take this coat off. It has become one with me this fall like Linus's blanket or Dracula's cape.

But since 'tis the season for coats, I thought maybe you guys would like to find your favorite. I founds some coats I love at Oasap, that are more than just a black canvas, they have fun shapes that will make you still feel one of a kind in a sea of black this upcoming winter. Plus they're prices are nearly all under $100! So definitely won't hurt the bank either! Let me know if you find one you love!

xx let's be friends! instagram, twitter, pinterest, and tumblr xx

freelancer's uniform

Working as a freelancer, it's easy to get caught in the groove of waking up, throwing on a sweatshirt and working the day in my pjs. But having a passion for fashion and style I actually don't like not starting my day without getting dressed. That's why I'm slowly collecting a closet full of "comfort" clothes that you can wear running errands, downloading files, and still feels cute enough to meet friends for Pho when the work day is fini! Plus having comfortable glasses whilst being on the computer is a NEED BE, I find myself slapping on my bonlook guys everyday. Perfect work to play lenses! Also  my tumblr has been an endless source of creatures of comfort style! I absolutely adore this retro picture of Susan Saradon! Perfectly casual cute wouldn't you say so, and those glasses are KILLER, reminds me of these bonlook lenses in the collage for sure!  Put it together with some tomboyish flair like maybe some overalls or what I've currently been eye balling, these grey sweatpants (YES SWEAT PANTS) from shades of grey! They're like tailored jersey knit pants, and definite upgrade of my old navy guys I had since my volley ball days. Now I just need to keep freelancing so I can afford all these lovely comfort clothes! Le sigh!

RIYKA F/W 2013

All photos c/o Riyka

I was contacted by Rebecca, the designer of Riyka the other day. She wanted to tell me about her collection, Riyka. Based out of London (by way of Tel Aviv), this husband and wife duo create a collection that is graphically inclined and a little tomboy. All I can say was "wow" I really love the use of colors and lines here. Even though I live a Batman-esque life (by day I'm a graphic designer by night I'm an actor) the designer in me is always pleased by the use of bold colors and lines. (Not surprised with some of the badass Bauhaus design that comes out of Tel Aviv) I like how simple this collection is. Plus who doesn't love a bit of girl meets boy? Despite the pops of yellow and orange this Riyka F/W collection reminds me of my uniform days for back to school.

As Chicago chills out, I'm reminiscent of wearing a fresh pair of navy leggings with my sweater vest and shirt buttoned up. I was probably THE ONLY CHILD IN MY SCHOOL who loved her uniform. The uniform allowed me to be creative in other forms. Plus I always used my free time to start some business or another (I've done everything from make candy to seasoned bath salts..!) For me a classic frees the mind for other activities. Maybe that's why I basically dress the same everyday.

Everyone but me

Is it me, or has everyone jumped on a plane and flew to a more promising Bastille Day location? From work to friends, everyone is going French except for moi! Even though I have to spend Bastille Day in Chicago, doesn't mean I can't bring the comforts of France to myself. Whether is running to the local pâtisserie for a much needed baguette, or some refreshing sparkling citron pressé, there are ways to get your French fix without the airfare. Plus my friends at Garage.ca are bringing me that punky Montréal style so I can be perfectly yéyé for any local celebrations without looking like the american flag. Let's try our bleu, blanc et rouge a little differently this year, eh? How about a red nail, and blue rucksack, and a white graphic tee shirt? Throw on some vintage bell bottoms, and you'll be ready to jump around saying "vie la France!" all night long!

smarty pants

smartie pants by avecbianca featuring round sunglasses

sorry sorry sorry! for being absent! I know blogger "shouldn't apologize" but I've been raised courteous to a fault. So again, my apologize. Work + Summer + Moving (yes moving) has made my life HECTIC, but I am still taking outfit posts I just have not had time to post them DX.

Anyway I've been dreaming up the perfect outfit for summer frolicking to the movies and to concerts. Can I admit that I'm officially in love with overalls and modern vice jett boots!! I'm stoked for summer this year. Usually I dread it, but this year I'm oddly optimistic. I think I've been influenced by all the Francois Hardy that has over loaded my ipod. But this sucker is currently my JAM!



OH AND HELLO PEOPLE, google connect is committing social suicide on JULY 1ST, so PLEASE FOLLOW ME ON BLOGLOVIN!! And if you have a bunch a blogs you follow on google connect here's a great and like 5min way to transfer all your blogs IN A SNAP! CHECK IT OUT

unisexy: frapbois

In honor of mansome mondays (even though its Tuesday) I wanted to share with you guys the spring/summer lookbook of the Japanese brand Frapbois. (Not sure if thats a bad translation of Frat Boys?) Its a cut and sew relaxed fit company where boys and girls share the same clothes. I love the preppy yet folky look this lookbook gives off. Reminds of the Japanese style I feel in love with back in the 90s! Plus is way less "hypebeasty" than it used to be. Since I've been diving deeper in getting more boyish charm to my style I feel like this lookbook is right up my alley! to be honest I've never been too much of a super revealing girl when I was in my teens. When men are trying to grab your butt on hot crowded summer trains, the last thing I want to be in is booty shorts.

j'aime STRIPES

 

susan sarandon from witches of eastwick 

the sartorialistvanessa jackman droptokyo tombo from kiki's delivery service

Ever since I was a kid, I've been OBSESSED with stripes. Albeit via Punky Brewester crazy mixed pattern style, to now a more relaxed nautical feel. I gots to say, I love me some stripes. I think is such a classic staple piece that never goes out of style. I'm slowly collecting a load of stripey shirts that will hopefully last me for years to come. One thing about being a professional artisit? You learn to invest more on staple pieces, I can't be dropping dollars at forever 21 for "coachella" wear when it will be out of style tomorrow. Plus maybe I'm just getting more boring with age. (but let's just say more accepting of my French heritage, no?)

Whatever the case, I think it will always be true, I LOVE STRIPES. Thought I share some inspiring posts of future summer looks. I mean whats more gamine + grandma than a naut-y stripe shirt?

 free people blogkris atomicstylesight grand theft thriftstreet cats

note: there's was a really sweet girl who told me they liked my blog at urban today on rush st! I'm so sorry if I seemed rude I was on the phone (with my mom no less) and didn't realize what you said until I left the store. THANK YOU! I really appreciate it :D (btw your outfit was totally bangin!)

mansome mondays: being woody

being woody by avecbianca

I thought I start a new "theme" post day because I've noticed how much I am getting into men's fashion (for women) sometimes its nice to see tomboy style, or "men for women" wear. But like looking at what the boys have on. There's a sense of unknown territory when you look through the pages of a men's fashion mag, everything is tailored and finesse. With men for women style, it always changes and its also sometimes can be a little trendier (or sluttier) than I like.

To kick off mansome mondays, I wanted to share some inspiration from the great Woody Allen. I love how his style never really changes. No matter the decade, it's always pleated pants, button down, oxford. With a blazer or pullover to complete. I realized how much I love his style when I was drooling of Anjelica Huston & Diane Keaton in Manhattan Murder Mystery. He was getting as equal pause time as the ladies, plus he has to have some influence on all the great female style throughout his films. Plus you can always add a feminine touch with tailoring and fit, a scarf or a hint of sparkle like diamond stud earrings. I really adore how Allen's style has become classic versus dated, I really hope to achieve that as I grow older.

watermelon

I'm not the only one obsessing over this Dusen Dusen sweater right? And with Chicago weather up in the 80s, I'm ready to get all Eartha Kitty and bike around town to get some watermelon flavored Italian ice! Hey, I said I was a Chicago girl! (Italian ice yay, ice cream boo!) Luckily Emerging Thoughts extended their 20% off sale so this cutie can be all mine! Use to code word INDEPENDENT to get 20%, they need your support to stay independent and free! Plus I know the gals at Emerging Thoughts personally, they are super cool kids, that want to bring you the best in Indie fashion designers. So give it a lucky loo, you might find something as yummy as this sweater!

need a day off

With spring weather in the air, I'm getting some strong cabin fever vibes. And with all this work laid out before myself, I'm in definite need of a day off with my girls! Is anyone is excited as I am that its finally warm enough to sit al fresco? I really love eating outside!

 (Milk & Honey via Yelp, Designer Women's clothing via Max Studio)

I was reminiscing with some of my girls about getting brunch again at Milk & Honey, this really neat and hip (& vegetarian friendly) brunch place in Wicker Park. They make amazingly delicious dishes from Huevos Rancheros, to overly indulgent french toast. Its fun to plan what you would wear to brunch at a place like this, and since I know its on a division, a great little shopping area in Wicker Park, this geometric designer evening dress from my friends at Max Studio are perfect! Plus did I mention that they are jersey? Even better if you were out late the night before and want something comfy yet cute to throw on when you roll out of bed. I just can't decide which one I love more! (dress 1 and dress 2!) I'd say, pair these guys up with these wooden heels and round shades, and you'll feel completely psychedelic and fabulous. Plus might I add the messier the hair the better? Totally channeling my inner Solange with this retro inspired look.


(Cafe photos via  Bourgeois Pig and Max Studio)

But then I'm also torn, do I want to be gamine? Run over to the Bourgeois Pig in Lincoln park? Which is this old Victorian house that has been turned into a Parisian cafe. Tons of yummy book inspired lunch options like The Great Gatsby or the Hobbit, and the tea selection will make any tea connoisseur fall head over heels. At this spot I would totally sport a stripey jersey dress, this double breasted jacket that adds to the nautical feel, and these cute espadrilles that every French girl owns at least one pair. Plus don't forget the shades! Also this place is right next to Lincoln Hall, this great concert hall that has some of the best indie bands like Twin Shadow or Tanlines come out a few times a year. Or with being in Lincoln Park, you're so close to the lake why not take the girls and run out to the beach for a while?

Ugh I can't decide what I want to do because it all sounds magical. All I know is I need the day off. Plus with my friends at Max Studio with their collection of designer women's clothing will help make any date whether is (play or pleasure) feel & look perfect!

they don't love you like I love you

Maps...what's not to love. Old ones, innovative ones (have you seen the scratch off ones?), I really love the wanderlust feeling maps produce.

When you were a child did you ever play the game where you spun the globe and placed you finger aimlessly? Where ever the globe would stop that's where you would move when "you grew up" (which what is considered "grown up" 60? I hope its not 25...) I think I'll always love maps, and dreaming of travel. That why I kind of love this map Dusen Dusen dress. It's from their fall collection, but I kind of think it's perfect for spring. Plus on Emerging Thoughts its more than half off market price! So I think this cute lil one piece will be perfect in any gal's suitcase for a much needed spring break vacay. I went to polyvore to imagine how I would accessorize it on a weekend trip to an unexplored land. Gave it a sort of a tomboy feel, since the dress is already so sweet. 

wanderlust by avecbianca featuring a double breasted military jacket

Ps why not we rock out to this classic hit while we dream about our weekend trips?