Tobias was a never nude, which is exactly what it sounds like.

When it comes to buying denim shorts, the first thing that comes to mind is the most wonderful character that ever graced us with his presence on television, Tobias Funke. I own a pair of cutoffs, not only as an ode to a television favorite, but it was my first attempt at denim shorts. For some reason, and I hope it isn't just me, I have such trouble finding a good pair of denim shorts. Not only have prices skyrocketed to disgusting highs (basically they are expensive postage stamps. I tried on a pair of True Religion and not only was my tush exponentially exposed with every step I took, but the sales person attempted to convince me that this was a cute look...bahahhahah), but it's also difficult to find the right cut.

Le Cutoffs, a little awk, right? 

 Look at me! I have no emotions because I'm cooler than everyone looking at this picture!

You think, well, shorts are shorts, right? Not so much. My first attempt was made 2 summers ago at a vintage store where I procured a pair of perfectly worn-in men's Levi's cutoffs. I was definitely influenced by Alexander Wang, but because I am not Erin Wasson, I began to have major issues with the waistband. Cutoffs are cute, but men's jeans are made for men, not for women, mainly for the huge issue they cannot bear children aka do not have hips. At this point I reserve my beloved Tobias shorts for flowy tops, wearing tights underneath, and impressing people when I say I have nevernude shorts (at which point I proceed to model them and do a Mrs. Featherbottom impression).

A couple of weeks ago, I decided I would not go another summer making excuses for my Tobias pants, and proceeded to hunt down the perfect pair of cutoffs.

My criteria:
-They would be made for women
-A dark wash, but not indigo.
-No pocket peakers
-Ass must be fully veiled
-Must fall on hips, not at waist
-Minimal pocket detailing/distressing

So I was on a quest for basically mythical shorts. Well, to my surprise, good ol' Philly based pseudo-hipster retailer Urban Outfitters had my golden ticket (and a golden twinkle in my eyeee. Maddie, calm it down.). I present to you Levi's 501 Cutoff Short. It fits all my requirements and then some.

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Photo: Urban Outfitters

My favorite thing about these shorts is the length. I have the option to roll them up (while keeping my backside covered) or to bring them down to a more fixie-riding-hipster-cutoff length. The wash distressed, but definitely feels worn in while being dark.

Photo: Urban Outfitters

The back (or I prefer "donk") is not only flattering, but the pockets are simple classic Levi's with yellow stitching. No fancy shmancy in your face logos.

Overall these shorts are winners. Now, excuse me while I attempt to write 10 pages on Rothko's spacial phenomenology and gouge my eyes out.

Hoarders everywhere, do not read this, this only helps your cause.

The moment I walked in my house to commence my long awaited spring break my nose turned into a faucet. I have a terrible cold and cannot go out due to what looks like monsoon season on the Main Line. I'm pretty sure Cancun doesn't get better than this.

Being stuck inside and preparing for a move (my parents sold the house we've called home for the past 20 years) has left me digging through boxes of forgotten middle school binders and old sketchbooks.

It amazes me how relevancy changes so quickly. What I mean is, what I considered important seven years ago (ahem Valentine cards from 5th grade and Muffy dolls) has little or no place in my life right now. As I stuff them into a big trash bag without much regard, am I making a mistake?

This is even harder when it comes to making room in my closet. I probably have close to fifteen sparkly Michael Stars one-size-fits-all shirts that were a must have item in 7th grade, that may still fit me, but don't work with my current personal aesthetic. The Juicy Couture terry sweatpants that I begged my mother for in middle school now function as pajamas rather than a status symbol. The hardest to part with are designer items that no longer fit. I have this beautiful white cotton Diane von Furstenberg button-up shirt who's size zero tag stares me in the face. The size of this piece is certainly no longer relevant to me, although I teeter on the 2-4-6 scale, I have a connection with it.

Furthermore, regardless if an item is designer or not, holding on is okay. I'm happy my dad held onto his monogram sweater from his adolescence and my mom kept her cutoffs from the 70's. So, to a certain extent, I don't agree with the mantra "If you haven't worn it in the last year, toss it." If an item has sentimental value keep it, but only with thoughtful consideration.

I really need it to be spring. kthxbai

I can't handle this New England weather anymore. Yesterday it was 43 degrees out. I was so elated I wore shorts most of the day, yes I am insane. Today, what is the weather?....SNOW. This is a cruel joke. If the weather.com doesn't let me down, it should be warming up for the rest of the week, warming up meaning low 40's, but I can finally start wearing spring-ish things.

My mom gave me this MM6 Martin Margiela tank last year and I didn't ever wear it, but right now I cant wait. It is a dual function piece: it can be worn as a shirt or as a tote bag:

MM6 Tank

 

zipper detail 

It hangs well off my shoulders and is slightly cropped. The wide neck and armholes allow for a bandeau or tank to peak through without looking like a tramp. The zipper detail makes it more than just a black tank, it's a simple addition, but makes this top special.

This jacket is my newest favorite. I picked it up a couple weeks ago at a consignment shop in Providence when I was visiting the RISD museum and my friend who goes there. I wasn't in the market to buy anything, but when I saw this piece and its price tag, I couldn't resist:

Plaid Wool Coat 

 Coat Detail

I was ready to give up plaid after seeing an overloaded season of the print, but I feel like this is a trend-less piece. The shape is simple and the details don't overwhelm the print. Another plus is that it is 100% wool and lined.

I should probably get back to reading about Mark Rothko considering I have a presentation this Saturday at RISD on one of his works. So. Ready. For. Spring. Break. 

Also, rewatching the greatest show of my tweens:

 

The Tailoring Conundrum

I came home this weekend to work on applications (I just don't understand why everyone doesn't want to transfer for the pure thrill of filling out the Common App again) and, more importantly eat awesome food.

Each time I return to my room, I can't help but try on everything in my closet for hours. As a vintage lover and collector, I have accumulated a small museum, and always ask myself, "Why don't you wear this all the time?" I soon realize there are details in the pieces that deter me from wearing these pieces regularly, such as hemlines or sleeve length. Here is my issue:

Do I take these items to a tailor to edit them into pieces I would wear all the time or do I not touch them because by changing them they lose the integrity of vintage and the details that capture their time?

I find this problem in current clothing as well. For example, the dress I wore to prom last year. I found an incredible Escada gown from S/S '08, but the train was too long for the event. It pained me to chop off a good 5 inches so I could dance and not get stepped on, and when I try it on now, I feel like a part of it is missing that once complimented the draping in the back so beautifully.

Here is a really small picture of my dress, unfortunately my camera is back at school.

 

 

www.stylehive.com

Escada Draped Bodice Gown

Your thoughts?

When in the Empire State (of mind)

I really really don't want to do work...

My friend and fellow blogger, Megan, asked me to compile a list of stores for her to visit during her spring break trip to NYC. I figured that I wouldn't keep this list to myself and should share some of my favorites. I should probably preface this with the fact when I am in NYC I go for the vintage and small stores and stray from designer flagships, but there are definitely some worth visiting for design purposes. Here it goes:

So I sort of collect business cards...

For rare concert tees, suede vests, cutoffs and basically anything else you need to look like a complete rock-star head over to Star Struck. I got my favorite pair of Levi's cutoffs here, and for only $12 (I warn you that not everything is that cheap there). (Vintage)

Star Struck Vintage Clothing

47 Greenwich Ave

New York, Ny 10014

Small and fairly inexpensive, but be prepared to scour the racks. Don't overlook their $1.00 rack, I found a great blazer among the icky turtlenecks and oversized shirts. (Vintage)

Monk

175 MacDougal St.

New York, NY 10010

One of the best organized vintage stores I have been to. Fantastic assortment of Levi's in every color of the rainbow and any other item you could ever think of. My scores: 2 plaid flannels that fit like a dream. (Vintage)

Andy's Chee-Pees

16 W. 8th St (Also have a store @ 691 Broadway)

New York, NY 10010

Go here for the owner. She is wonderfully entertaining and has a huge wall of amazing shoes. (Vintage)

CobblesTones

314 East 9th Street

New York, NY

Screaming Mimi's was my introduction to the world of vintage in NYC, I got two of my favorite pieces from there in 8th grade and wear them to this day, so I might be a little biased, but definitely check it out. (Vintage)

Screaming Mimi's

382 Lafayette Street

New York, NY 10003

I warn you, the prices here are inflated, but its worth taking a peek for their line of clothes that incorporate vintage textiles. The staff has always been friendly and they generally have things on sale. (Vintage/New)

Zachary's Smile

9 Greenwich Avenue

New York, NY

For a small store with a concise selection of independent labels head to Duo. They also have some vintage, but I liked their modern clothes more. (Vintage/New)

Duo

337 East 9th Street

New York, NY 10003

Amazing selection of designer clothes on the cheap(er). Tokio 7 has a ton of last seasons must haves, I remember seeing a Proenza vest from S/S 08 I coveted, unfortunately I didn't have the funds.(Designer Consignment)

Tokio 7

64 East 7th Street

New York, NY 10003

Smaller than Tokio 7, but another fantastic designer consignment shop. Last time I was there I was thisclose to buying a shearling Miu Miu bomber jacket because the price was so damn good, but realized it had no place in my closet. (Designer Consignment)

INA

101 Thompson St

New York, NY

If you want cute and comfortable shoes at fairly affordable prices, it's worth the trip to the UWS to Tani. My friend Gabby introduced me, and I am forever in debt to her. I always find it hard to find sandals that wont make my arches fall yet don't look like orthopedic sneakers, but with brands like Corso Como, Jeffery Campbell, and F Troupe I always find myself drooling and without foot pain. (Shoes)

Tani

131 W. 73 Street or 2020 Broadway

New York, NY

When in NYC I want to shop at places where I can't get the clothes anywhere else, but I make an exception with A.P.C. I love the simplicity of these clothes and the layout of the store, the prices...not so much.(Designer)


A.P.C.

131 Mercer Street

New York, NY 10012

Go to Miu Miu. Shoes. Pink. Sequins. Pink. Dresses. Pink. Bags. I don't think I can really say much more. Its for the girly girl you might have forgotten. (Designer)

Miu Miu

100 Prince Street

New York, NY 10012

  
Don't bother looking for the prices, the clothes don't have tags, but to relive the SATC episode where Carrie buys Burger the shirt go here, oh and its architecturally amazing. (Designer)


Prada
575 Broadway
New York, NY

When you need to wind down and eat something, get a really good lunch at Westville. I love their mac & cheese. They also make a mean turkey burger. (Food)

Westville 

210 West 10th Street
New York, NY 10014

Awesome omlettes. (Food)

Elephant & Castle

68 Greenwich Avenue
New York, NY 10011

So New York is the land of cupcakes, but until this January I felt like Goldilocks. No matter where I went I couldn't find the perfect cupcake, but then there was Sweet Revenge. Perfect. Vanilla. Cupcake. (Food)

Sweet Revenge

62 Carmine Street
NYC, NY 10014

I love carbs. So usually after I've stuffed my face at Sweet Revenge, I head over to Amy's Breads for the best scones and muffins, or just get an entire loaf for myself. (Food)

Amy's Breads

250 Bleecker Street OR 75 9th Avenue
New York, NY





 

You've been invited to a Sugarhi!

It's a double post sort of day!

Today I woke up bright and early to go to the SugarHabit sale. Two of my favorite stores, Third Street Habit and Sugarcube, paired up for a mega sale. Everything was 50-90% off. I went with my brother's girlfriend who is a New York bred sample sale savvy shopper. The sale started at 10, but when we got there (around 9:45am) there was already a line. Every woman seemed to be on a mission and within moments the once organized warehouse was a zoo. I should have brought my camera, but considering the dressing room was literally a large room with about 5 mirrors where hoards of women were stripping and ferociously trying on their finds, it would have been violating to say the least. There were racks and racks of my favorite contemporary brands ranging from Current/Elliot, APC, Isabel Marant, Rory Beca, and more. Plus there were three racks devoted to vintage...and it was all $10. Despite the discounts, most items were still $100+, which doesn't fit into my college budget.  I tried a ton of stuff on and left happily with two items.

I bought a vintage blue and white striped silk button-up and...harem pants. I know, I know...me...harem pants? They were very well priced and since they are made from cotton jersey, they drape quite well. Recently my purchases have been about challenging myself and diversifying my wardrobe. Here is a little outfit I put together with my new digs (Unfortunately because I do not own a tripod or have a personal photographer on call, my mirror will have to do):

 I think my Topshop heels work with this outfit and the hardware contrasts nicely with the softness of the shirt and pants. Can spring come now?

I'm Not Coco Rocha

Now why do I even bother mentioning that I am not the fantastic international supermodel that Coco Rocha is? It gives me the excuse to name drop her. Yes. I saw Coco on Thursday in NYC at Topshop. I was with a group of my friends in the city for the day and while in Topshop I saw a too-tall-to-not-be-a-model woman, only to immediately realize that it was Coco fucking Rocha. My other fashion-mag obsessed friend turned a shade of red that I'm pretty sure that only appears when she sees either A) a supermodel or B) Harry Potter cast members or C) Seth Meyers.

On the note of modeling, I am finally posting the pictures from the photo shoot my friend Mike and I did. We had a lot of fun with this and probably stayed up until 2am taking pictures and eating. After digging around my house for pieces I wanted to use, I realized the abundance of awesome coats in my house that either belong to me, my mother, grandfather, grandmother, or father. Jackets and coats are probably the most versatile items in your closet. They have the power to completely transform any outfit. I wanted to showcase the variety of materials and cuts of said jackets while complimenting the other pieces in the ensemble.

Mike in my mothers vintage Orange Wool and Fox trimmed Isaac Mizrahi coat. My guess it's from the early 90's.

My Vintage Faux Fur trimmed jacket worn with a thrifted T, J. Crew cropped cords, and Natural Comfort Platforms

 

 

Vintage Army Jacket worn with a vintage football jersey, J. Crew cords, Natural Comfort platforms, and ring by Michael Henrich

 

 

 

Hinge Leather Jacket worn with Vintage Mariann Boston dress, Marc Jacobs Heels, Moschino Belt,Vintage Necklace, and H&M earrings.

 

Before The New Year

So it's New Years Eve?? Jiggawhatttt?? I could go on about how this has been such a yadda yadda year but I'm not. This pretty much is all I need to say about New Years.



No, my New Years will (hopefully) not consist of a psychopath-hotel-heir trying to get with me or my sudden realization that I'm a huge skank and need Seth Cohen, but I had to post that. No one does it like the O.C. ANYWAY...

I'm going to put it out there...I have been pretty terrible in keeping up with posting. These past two weeks have been a little more hectic than I expected, no doubt I love it, but I haven't had nearly as much time I thought I would. Unfortunately the blog has been put on the back burner and instead I have been focusing on New Years event planning, listening to the Pixies excessively, rummaging through my mom's closet, and applying to college...again. I don't like making resolutions, let's be honest nobody can keep up with a grapefruit diet, daily 5k runs, or reading every New York Times bestseller. I prefer to make edits. How can I keep things pretty much the same but achieve some goals? Those goals being:

Blog more frequently!--Not only do I love writing about things I'm passionate about, but it's a fantastic way for me to write for pleasure and practice developing my style.

Cook more--Since I've been home I have been able to cook much more, and so far I've made some pretty fantastic meals with my mom. I have always loved cooking, it was definitely one of my phases (that joins the ranks of fashion design, tennis, and piano)...I had a cooking themed Bat Mitzvah party (yeahh....) and went to cooking camp for 2 summers, but I still enjoy it and would love to improve.

Be a more involved and thoughtful shopper-- Trust me I'm pretty stingy when it comes to shopping, although it may not seem like it. I've never done the Forever 21 thing (quality is incredibly important to me), but once in a while I find myself at Zara buying a pair of twill shorts that shrink after the first wash (clearly I'm bitter). I'm at a point in my life where I pay for things now, so I'm more picky than ever. I want to really save up for great pieces that are timeless, even if that means buying one or two items a season.

I think I will leave it at that. I don't want to overwhelm myself-- keep it simple. I apologize for the lack of photos or exciting content. I PROMISE I will do my vintage post next, but I just realized the whole reason I started this blog was to post my Sartorialist drawings...so that might come next. We'll see.

Here's a taste of what's to come...

Ps. I love dressing up for New Years, I was thinking I would go all out with sequins aka wear my recently aquired bedazzled sweater, but I'm going to keep it a little toned down..well sort of. I am going to wear the following:

I picked up this Rodarte for Target black camisole with lace detail the other day. For one thing, it's far more flattering than this photograph makes it appear and the material is much nicer than I thought it would be. There were only a couple pieces left from the collection when I got to the store. I tried on the leopard dress with the bows, although cute..it was a little much, so I settled with this.

Here is the outfit in its entirety:

Rodarte for Target camisole, Vintage Perry Ellis boys blazer, Vintage tiger-print skirt, All Saints necklace.

And the shoes...

Nine West Heels

Happy New Year!!!!