30 for 30 Picks

Finally February is upon us. And that means it's time for Winter 2011's 30 for 30! I've watched for two seasons as the world of style bloggers remixed their wardrobes. And I've thought: "That looks like fun!" So this time, I'm joining in the fun.

And here are my 30 picks.

7 Tops (from top to bottom, left to right)

Long-sleeved grey thermal: Delia*s    Short-sleeve blue ruffle blouse: Banana Republic    SS Beige woven henley: Gap    SS turquoise Tee: Alternative Apparel    3/4-sleeve blue henley: Gap Navy blue-and-red-striped pleated LS top: gift    LS purple cowl neck top: Gap

2 Cardigans

Grey 3-button: Target    Brown open-front: Gap

2 Sweaters

Olive green baggy V-neck: Gap    Black cowl neck: Gap

2 Tunics

Black plaid: Target    Denim: Gap

6 Bottoms

Black leggings: Prana    Grey cords: Gap    Red cords: Gap    Dark skinny jeans: Gap    Light skinny jeans: Target     High-waisted flares: J. Brand

2 Dresses

Burgundy striped sleeveless: Old Navy    Blue striped 3/4 sleeve: Old Navy *

1 Vest

Grey heather: Converse via Target

1 Poncho

Grey embroidered: Da-Nang **

5 Pairs of Shoes (Clockwise from top left)

Sneaks: Converse    Congnac boots: Madden    Lace-up boots: Restricted via Piperlime    Printed flats: Toms    Leopard flats: Target

2 Jackets ***

Denim: Old Navy    Olive green military: Gap

So that's it, then. Most of these pieces were chosen haphazardly out of panic that it was the 31st of January and I had yet to finish selecting my 30. But I think that's OK. It'll make it interesting, right?

* Apparently, it's the season of the stripes for me. Instead of ignore my predilection, I decided to embrace it and see how I can have fun remixing two striped dressed and one striped top with all the other pieces.

** "Did she say poncho??" Yes, I said poncho. I bought it kind of on a whim from HauteLook with a credit I had and have yet to wear it. What better time to incorporate such an interesting piece into my wardrobe than during the 30 for 30?

*** I reserve the right to add heavier jackets when necessary, purely because I ride a scooter to work most days and don't want to freeze my little tush off if these two jackets prove inadequate, k? K.

Seems Like Forever Ago

Saturday, that is. You know how you reach Monday morning and Saturday is but a lovely, distant memory? No? Well, guess I'm alone in this one.

It was a lovely day, though. I actually enjoyed the misty San Francisco weather. It's the best kind of running weather, if you ask me. Of course, I wouldn't have been as motivated to run without a big, greasy breakfast. Gotta pack the calories in before burning them off, right?

So I had a croque madame and the hubs had some banana strawberry pancakes.

I even convinced him to take my picture. How sweet! And he let me take his picture, with the understanding that I'd be specific in describing his outfit. I think I might need his help remembering, though. Something about selvegdge jeans and a vintage leather jacket.

I told you guys he was much more fashionable than I.

Top (under sweater): Gap    Sweater: Gap    Cords: Gap (see a trend here?)    Boots: Madden    Jacket: Old Navy    Hat: PacSun (ages ago)    Scarf: gift from Guam    Shades: F21

Leaving out his head at his request. Makes him more mysterious, huh?

My Color Aesthetic

Apparently I really like this color palette, as evidenced by this post.

Guess I should file that away in the things-I've-noticed-about-my-style folder.

I love love love this tunic. It was kind of an impulse buy at the Gap, but has become one of my favorite pieces this fall/winter. On this day I wanted to wear it over some colorful leggings, but the only leggings I own are black, heather grey and olive green.

But I do own these great purple tights. Layer them over some leggings and voila! Colorful, warm legwear.

So I've stopped with the rounded edges on my pictures. Mainly because it just takes an extra step before posting, and I think the most important thing is that I edit the photos for color and exposure. At least that's what my limited editing skillz tell me.

Can I just be excited for a moment? I was chosen as one of FabSugar's "Looks of the Week." Very cool! And all over an outfit I was a little unsure about. Thanks, FabSugar!

Tunic: Gap    Cami (beneath tunic): Target    Leggings (beneath tights): Target    Tights: too old to remember    Boots: Restricted via Piperlime    Necklace: via Erskine College

P.S. I'll be choosing my 30 for 30 pieces today. I'm nervous. And excited. And pretty certain of at least half of the pieces.

The Sun is on the Porch!

Yep. I found it. The sun, that is. And it made for some pretty pictures, so hip hip hooray!

I'm not in love with this top. It works under a cardigan or jacket, but then I take that layer off and it's like, "Oh, those sleeves are weird. Kind of like wings for your shoulders, huh?"

And then I get ashamed and put my cardigan back on and hang my head.

OK, not really. But I do seriously consider getting rid of the top. I just haven't fully committed to that consideration yet.

Hey! The top of my head's cut off!

Top: Gap    Sweater Jacket: Gap    Jeans: Target    Belt: husband's (don't tell)    Scarf: Old Navy    Shoes: Converse

See what I mean? Weird sleeves.

I've caught on to the fact that everyone looks better while inexplicably
touching their neck/head/hair. Thanks, style bloggers!

Have a lovely Sunday!

Finding the Right Angle

It took me a while to find the right shot when I was taking these photos. In the end, this first one was my favorite. Welcome to where I park my scooter while I'm at work! 

In fact, she's got a brief cameo in this first shot. And yes, I do ride the scooter with my super wide-leg jeans on. Sometimes it proves challenging and I have to swing my leg out wide before putting it on the little scooter platform, to avoid snagging the cuff on any scooter parts. 

But that was more than you needed to know. I'm going to shut up now and just let you see what I wore this day.

Striped top: Gap    Cardigan: Banana Republic    Blazer: Mango (from my semester in Spain)    Jeans: J. Brand    Boots: Madden    Scarf: gift (Thanks, Syd!)    Tiny flower pin: from a boutique in Savannah, GA with crafts from SCAD students

This blazer is possibly the best article of clothing I own. I bought it way back in Spring of 2004 while I was studying in Madrid, Spain. I bought it at the Mango outlet (YES those exist over there) for something like 10 Euros. And it's been with me all these years. I think it'll make an appearance in the 30 for 30...

Friend Friday: Blogger Mechanics

Friday brings another FBFF, via ModlyChic. Thanks, chica!


1. What technology do you use in blogging? Photo-wise, I use a Canon PowerShot SD1100. I bought the camera during the Summer of 2008, right before I got married. I think I'm about due for a new one, don't you?  I usually blog on my HP Pavilion laptop. It's also a few years old, but it's going strong. One day soon I hope to get a netbook. I have no phancy phone that allows me to check my emails and other blogs on the go, but I'm currently in the process of picking out a new plan and phone. I'm soooo looking forward to it.

2. What computer and online technology do you use? I use Picasa (both on my computer and online) for photo storage and easy viewing and some basic editing. I use Picnik.com to give my photos their pretty little rounded edges and create simple collages. I started the blog using the OnSugar network, but quickly switched to Blogger (which I've used for many years).

3. What is your process for taking pictures? I either snap shots in my apartment or somewhere outside around my work. I set up the camera in the manual setting to shoot in cloudy, sunny, fluorescent, etc settings and change the aperture as needed. Then I balance the camera on its side (thank goodness for the "straighten" feature in photo editors) and set the 10-second timer and pose away. I try to get it done quickly and my photogenic nature typically doesn't let me down.

Then, I upload the photos to Picasa, edit them there or upload to an online album and edit them in Picnik through my Picasa album. I don't know much about photo editing, so I usually just click the "auto fix" button. Seems to work pretty well so far.

4. When it comes to backdrops for your photos what do you consider? Do you scout locations or shoot the same spot daily? Well, ideally I shoot outside. But I haven't quite gotten up the courage to shoot around my apartment. I live in downtown San Francisco, for crying out loud. Give me some time. One of these days I'll drag my husband out with me and make him embarrass himself simultaneously. I've found several spots around my work that get good lighting (including inside the kitchen). My newest favorite spot is on the upstairs back porch just outside the kitchen at work. It overlooks rooftops and a very industrial side of the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco.

5. If you could splurge and get one new piece of equipment what would you be buying? Oooo, tough call. I'd say camera, but I think what I'd really like is a phone. A phone with data capabilities and apps and really cool things that most people consider normal these days. I like being connected, and style blogging should be about staying connected to a community of bloggers. Well, it'd be a splurge for me, anyway!

Channeling the Ocean

Ha! Do you see what I did there? Classic.

You know, some days I'm thinking so much about being stylish in a impress-other-style-bloggers sort of way (I know, I know), that I forget how simple it is to get dressed. Does that make sense?

Like this outfit, for example. Pick a color scheme. (Mine? The ocean.) Throw on a tank, cardigan, skinny jeans, flats and a scarf, and you have an outfit. Easy peasy. And stylish to boot.

Tank: Cotton Basics (SF)    Cardigan: BDG via Urban Outfitters    Jeans: Gap    Flats: don't recall the brand, but I got 'em at Burlington Coat Factory    Scarf: Gap

The following is what happens when your self-timed shot is not so well-planned.

Happy weekend everyone! This weekend I'm looking forward to deciding on a wireless carrier to start a real live data plan (welcome to the 21st century, Bethy!), eating tapas with friends, singing in church and (maybe) enjoying some delicious dungeness crab for the first time.

A Modcloth Wedding

I decided that my first Modcloth purchase should be a dress for my lovely and dear friend Cheryl's wedding in March. She has the sweetest spirit and I'm so excited to be able to fly East for this wedding. I wouldn't miss it!

Of course, I find myself uncertain of which Modcloth frock I like best. Below are some of my favorites, but I could definitely use some suggestions.

The wedding is in South Carolina in mid-March. Indoors.

The Aftershock Dress: So cute, so chic, so wearable-after-the-wedding.

The Faerie-st of Them All Dress: Adorable. I love the single-shoulder strap and the delicate petals.

The Bow Flurries Dress: I like the cheeky-ness of this dress.
Looks like it would be easy to dress down for a weekend.

The Share a Starter Dress: Ok, I kind of just threw this one in for fun.
But it's still a consideration. Probably too formal, but very classy.

The Budding Ambition Dress: So cute. And wedding appropriate, with the flowers.
I'd be worried about the ruffles, but I'm still willing to give it a shot.

The Kendi Everyday Dress: Looks like the kind of dress I'd wear again and again.
Maybe too wintery. But technically the wedding's in winter.

All photos: Modcloth

Fashion Risk #4: Winterized Shorts

Combat boots: day two.

I'm getting used to them. I still look down and see big feet, but I also feel kind of cool wearing them. Like I could stomp out a fire.

I threw on these shorts this morning to see how I'd feel about the shorts/leggings/boots combo. I think the cowl neck sweater makes this outfit.

Sweater: Gap    Vest: gift    Shorts: Delias (old)    Leggings: Target    Boots: Restricted via Piperlime

Sweaty Wednesday: Getting it Back

My Sweaty Wednesday goal was to train for and run my third marathon and to try new things when it comes to fitness. But first, I've gotta get moving again. I've run maybe four times since the beginning of the year. Lame, I know, but I'm proud to say I'm finally moving.

January's been a slow month for me. I've felt sluggish, worn out and emptied of energy. My body tells me, "Ugh, I'm tired!" And my mind tells me, "Get off the couch, lazy bones, and get moving! That's how you'll get more energy!"

And so it begins.

Top: Asics    Capris: Nike    Shoes: Brooks    Socks: Asics

I still have yet to decide on my marathon for 2011, but I'm leaning towards ING New York. Yeah! Go big or go home!

Also, I'm planning on starting something called the elimination diet on February 1. More to come.

Style is a Battlefield

Remember I told you about the combat boots I was expecting? Well, they arrived. They finally arrived. And as I'm seeking my own personal style aesthetic, I'm struggling with whether or not these boots actually fit into my life.

I told my ever-so-fashionable husband that I was unsure, and he insisted that I keep trying them. I just keep looking down and seeing huge combat boots. But, I guess that's part of what I have to get used to, huh?

On the other hand, they are really comfortable (once they finally started breaking in), and they're great scooter-riding boots. I'll definitely keep them. And I'll keep trying them.

I think they'll go into my 30 for 30 rotation. That way, I gotta wear 'em!

Speaking of 30 for 30, there are a couple of things I'd like to purchase before it commences. Like a maxi dress and some Sperry Topsider Lace Up Boots.

Then I can remix the snot out of 'em.

Sweater: Gap    Leggings: Prana via See Jane Run    Boots: Restricted via Piperlime    Jacket: ON    Scarf: Prana via See Jane Run

Sweaty Monday: Run Club

OK, these were actually taken last Tuesday. I lead a run club from one of our stores and Tuesday was my day. That meant I got to dress lazily. (Honestly, I could wear this to work every day, but I just like to step it up.) Every now and then it's nice to have a break.

So I layered some of my most comfortable pieces and hid my running apparel underneath. Perfection!

Tank (under Tee): Nike    Tee: from the San Francisco Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon    Hoodie: from the Nike Women's Marathon    Vest: Wet Seal (old)    Tights: Asics    Boots: Keen    Scarf: Prana via See Jane Run

Can I just say I love my run club? It was started a little over a year ago, and I've been leading most of that year. I never thought I'd become a run club leader; it's been a huge boost of confidence for me when it comes to my fitness level. Plus, the ladies in the run club are always a ton of fun.

P.S. Here's a photo of our run club's one-year celebration

Little Blouse on the Prairie

Top: Old Navy    Cardigan: Gap    Jeans: Target    Belt: F21    Mocs: Minnetonka    Necklace: Nike Women's Marathon

Friend Friday: Authenticity

Check out my authentic Guatemalan tamale.

Joining ModlyChic's "Friend Friday" posts this week.


1. Most readers and fellow fashion bloggers value authenticity in the blogs they read. How would you describe blog/blogger authenticity? I think blogger authenticity has a lot to do with the voice the he or she creates. Blogging should come naturally, conversationally. After following a blog for a while, a reader should really catch on to the blogger's voice and have an expectation of that voice.

2. When it comes to your blog how do you infuse it with that true/authentic feeling? Well, I've just begun in the fashion blogging world, but I've been blogging otherwise for years. I try to keep it casual and fun, but not too wordy or serious (speaking specifically about fashion blogging here). I'm still finding my voice as a fashion blogger, but isn't that part of the fun?

3. Have you stopped following a blog in the last three months? What made you lose interest? Yes. It mainly has to do with what I'm looking for in a fashion blog (and the community of fashion bloggers). I don't continue following blogs that just focus on "what's hot now" by posting pictures (not their own) and links to designers and shops. I want to see and hear from real women struggling to define their style just like me. Maybe a blogger can take inspiration from the runway, but it's not likely that I'll continue reading a photo- and trend-heavy blog.

4. We can't communicate effectively on our blogs, something we don't live in real life... what are some ways you try to live an authentic life? I try to be true to myself, I suppose, as cliche as that sounds. Like, I do what I'm interested in and gravitate toward others who are interested in similar things. (Guess that means it's nearly time to start meeting some local style bloggers!) And I talk to people. I firmly believe we are meant to live in community, which means we talk to one another and share our hopes, fears, dreams, etc. Life's so much more interesting when spent with others.

5. Give a shout-out... Which bloggers do you think are truly genuine and why? Kendi Everyday (she just seems so real and likeable), Blue Collar Catwalk (she lets us see her in her workout gear, for crying out loud!),What Would a Nerd Wear (her photos don't seem super doctored, like some blogs out there, and she just seems like someone I'd like to meet), Work With What You've Got (not ashamed to share an embarrassing story or two).

Happy Friday, all! I'm heading to a beach house for the weekend for my bud's 30th birthday. So excited!

Act Your Age

I've always had a hard time with the fact that I don't look my age. I know, I know. That's a good thing. Or will be when I actually want to look younger than I am.

But now it's butting up against this search for my style aesthetic. Some of the trends I just can't even try because they make me look silly. Ah, well, that's the thrill of the hunt, right?

Speaking of the hunt, I was in H&M yesterday and I tried on some of those new trends. The results were entertaining at best. And yes, I took pictures in the dressing room. So you'll get to see a couple of the looks I just don't think will be a part of my style aesthetic. Unless someone tells me how to "make it work" (said a la Tim Gunn.)

Top: F21 (old)    Cardi: Urban (older)    Skirt: Target (also old)     Boots: Madden    Necklace: from my Guatemala trip

(Check me out! Remixing old pieces all over the place! Also, this skirt is longer. And lower in the waist. I have zero sewing skills, so I pinned it. With a safety pin. Because skirts that hit below my knees just don't work for me.)