D E S I R E E G A I T A N

and stars, ringed.

2012-01-28T16:53:00.000-05:00

a recent trip to killington, vermont--a MLK 2012 weekend getaway. freedom is priceless. life is beautiful.

endorsement: the artist

2012-01-10T17:04:00.004-05:00

when was the last time you went to go see a silent film? if you have never seen a silent film--do you even think you could manage the 90 minutes or so without the movie stars talking? well, about a week ago, i saw the movie 'the artist,' (directed by Michel Hazanavicius) and i thought it was quite refreshing. quite inspiring in fact. before i went into the theater, i was a little nervous because i brought along someone without them really knowing what they were in for. i was also afraid that i would quickly grow bored of the film and resent the decision i made to spend my friday night sitting through a movie with actors lips moving but no sounds coming out--no words! thankfully, this was not the case.

silent films--what a thought. it seems a thing of the past, and rightfully so, but there was something i was able to get out of this film, without having to hear the actors dialogue. Perhaps, it was using more of my imagination, more of my attention, and more of my focus that was so "refreshing" for me. I appreciated how it took me out of my comfort zone (in regards to movie watching) and placed me in a position to use my eyes to soak in the richness of the film. i paid much more attention to the soundtrack, and the details of the actual images--the faces, the costumes, the settings. it was completely old school glamour and hollywood. an era i think everyone loves to tap into, and celebrate now and then.

the artist has been playing in theaters some weeks now, but if you haven't seen it, i would recommend it. challenge: sooner or later while watching the film, you forget there are no voices, you fall into the film, and forget you even needed words, so go see it--trust me.

glory

2012-01-10T15:23:00.000-05:00

city of angels

2012-01-06T13:14:00.001-05:00

a few months ago I was driving through downtown los angeles and the architectural skyline looked very pretty, so i whipped out my camera and snapped a few shots as i cruised down one of those big highways, can't remember which one it was now--maybe the 101? it's definitely not the safest way to go about takeing pictures but i managed. i won't make a habit out of it.

remembering 2011

2011-12-31T18:32:00.002-05:00

some top memories of 2011 in pictures:

i'm a lady--got my mind made up.

2011-12-30T15:36:00.000-05:00

my recent winter holiday trip back to sunny california. a treat. some video clips accompanied by the chill tunes of santigold--i'm a lady.

all i want (for Christmas) is you!

2011-12-18T15:44:00.001-05:00

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. The merriment behind this season is a very celestial time for me.

This video is a combination of clips that I was able to gather over the past few weeks in NYC. I can't express how much I enjoy living here during this spirit filled time of the year. New Yorkers take so much pride in celebrating the holiday. Walking around you see and smell Christmas trees lined up, stacked high and ready to be taken into a warm home; bright red, green, and white lights hanging along the street posts; and every so often you see carolers gathering around in clusters, singing some of the most precious songs of the season. It blows my mind how quickly it seems to come and go!

Enjoy the video! xx

10 east, desert, mystery, beauty,

2011-12-04T14:57:00.000-05:00

i like to watch the way the wind blows in the desert. it was 3am on a saturday morning, a little over a week ago, and i was cruising the 10 east. the quietness of the desert makes for a megaphone of thoughts bouncing off the walls of my mind.

i look forward to this drive, which i take every few months (give or take). it's gorgeous and it's mysterious all together. the experience feels brand new every time. i hope one day to live a few years of my life in the desert--old, and leathery, with tons of wild horses.

poem of the moment: hope

2011-12-01T10:30:00.000-05:00

Hope

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune--without the words,

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land,

And on the strangest sea;

Yet, never, in extremity,

It asked a crumb of me.

-emily dickinson

movie:my week with marilyn

2011-11-18T15:51:00.001-05:00

looking forward to this! november 23, 2011.

heart it races.

2011-11-15T22:07:00.000-05:00

stop. turn up the volume. and push play. another music video diary. live beautifully.

#nycmarathon2011

2011-11-07T21:59:00.001-05:00

what can i say--i was inspired to train for a half a marathon. i'll let the pictures do the talking. it truly should be the 9th wonder of the world--experiencing 45, 000 people run their hearts out across the five borroughs of new york city.

turn on the bright lights.

2011-10-31T21:21:00.003-04:00

talk about the crazy times we live in...this last saturday it snowed in nyc! i'm still not over it. well, we can't always depend on the weather to cheer us up, but maybe we can cheer ourselves up with the colours we decide to wear.

i've really been into the bright side of threads lately--straying from my go-to navys, greys, and blacks. so what--as long as you're warm, bring out those neon green jeans and balance it out with a rich dark blue sweater. it might just wake up everyone around you from their dark fall slumber.

p.s. happy halloween--easily my least favorite holiday of the year. happy harvest time?

a real hero:

2011-10-25T22:54:00.002-04:00

just capturing some spirit of this fall.

some time around midnight.

2011-10-24T23:05:00.004-04:00

and another birthdaze bites the dust. i took the last week to take a few dance steps back and reflect on this past 365 days of life. what a he-llllllllll of a year. a year ago today--amidst many chaotic things going on simultaneously--I was jobless, on the verge of moving again, broke, stressed, and so uncertain of my place in nyc (and in life to be quite frank)--i managed to stay alive through it all. divine. and i am speechless--the kind of speechless that comes with thankfulness--which is the kind of thankfulness that comes from being broken, tendered, and revived in sweet healing. the lesson of humility--this is a gift, and it comes with a beautiful/painful price--but if you let yourself get wrung out a little bit (perhaps a lot) you might just get a lovely lion heart out of it. i feel i grasped a few essentials out of this last year (which im sure i'll have to revisit time and time again in the future)--a greater capacity for love, grace, forgiveness, thankfulness, and the realization of where i end.

so i celebrated--because i was thankful for being alive and for all my loved ones who surrounded me through the depths and heights of my life this year. cheers--drink deeply, flow freely.

instant: brooklyn bridge

2011-10-10T21:24:00.000-04:00

occupying wall street

2011-10-10T21:05:00.001-04:00

an interesting display of protests going on in downtown nyc recently. people of all kinds occupying the streets near the financial district. many voices shouting a chant in unision, "banks get bailed out, we get sold out." i felt the energy around me, but i wasn't sure what to think. if anything i felt overwhelmed for our country--this state of financial tension has seemed to reach a critical point. it's a chilling feeling really, because it doesn't seem, as a country, we feel so sure of anything, anymore.

simple glamour

2011-10-10T20:27:00.000-04:00

Yup, a sure way to glam up your look, especially while on the go--carry a pair of pretty studs in your bag, and when day falls to night, you can pop these on and...voila! instant fresh appeal. i'm a big advocate for the studs. some might say studs remind them of their grandma's--stifling their outfits, but i think studs are precious and quite sophisticated. above are a few pairs i zoned in on recently.

(clockwise)

Nº1 Hogan Round Earring, nelly.com
Nº2 Diamond Earrings tacori.com
Nº3 WGACA Vintage Chanel Black Earrings
Nº4 Jamie Wolf Pave Stud Earrings
Nº4 BonBon Boutique Earrings Twinkle in my ear zenggl.com
Nº5 Seeking Thrift Shopper Earrings modcloth.com
Nº6 Red Lips Fangs Stud Earrings betseyjohnson.com
Nº6 (middle of page) Square Vintage Post Earrings urbanoutfitters.com

sweater season

2011-10-01T16:27:00.000-04:00

i have to admit...i'm not so keen on picking out great dresses, but when it comes to a sweater--my eye ain't so bad. i cherish a fine sweater, one that hangs well, and is as versatile as your dark blue jeans. i picked a few of my fave and posted them here--some are a bit $$$ but that just means it's inspiration to go find something similar at the local thrift shop. che-che-chhhheeeeers to the crispness of october!

dreamy

2011-10-01T15:53:00.000-04:00

this whole movie made me nostalgic for the valley and hot pink.

girl inform me.

2011-09-26T11:25:00.001-04:00

the closest feeling to being a proud mother--i gazed over the bowery ballroom balcony at one of my best girls playing the beautiful guitar solo part of new slang for the shins. the spotlight painted her angelic like as the rest of the band on stage was drenched black. pretty.

it's ridiculous sometimes, how things come to be...moments brings you back to these places in your mind, almost like these divine milestones that are your post-it reminders of where you came from and where you need to be going. how funny, if someone told me back then that one day i'd get to see my friend play these songs (that i used to blast as i cruised around costa mesa, california) live---i'd have bet you an alta chai latte that you were a-lying.

autumn items ilike:

2011-09-20T17:58:00.000-04:00

inspirations for the upcoming season of bright oranges, yellows, reds, and pumpkin spice lattes! lord knows this girl loves a sunny day but there's something about the fall that makes me feel brand new, like i just erased the chalkboard and i'm starting out some new solutions to life...what? well, it's great to see the kids back in school in the morning...i like walking by junior highers and their gigantic sneakers. their funky style keeps me so young.

fashion

2011-09-17T01:30:00.002-04:00

a bit of a tongue and cheeky video diary of FNO in nyc last thursday. i've been able to attend all three FNO's since it began back in 2009, and every year it seems like the city, for a night, is on fashion steroids. i thought who better then gaga to capture it with her over-the-top lyrics. cheers to the fun of it all...we can't take it too seriously, now can we?

month of music:mes de la musica

2011-09-16T11:27:00.000-04:00

$1, $5, $ .50, $10, ....whatever you feel is right, please consider the gift of music to the children of la sagrada familia. we've got 14 days left and we're a little over 1/2 way there! cheers.

thank you,

desiree

food: california mexican

2011-09-13T23:32:00.000-04:00

Nº1 world famous

Nº2 frijoles

Nº3 kick back

Nº4 nikki's taco set

Nº5 the line outside the door

Nº6 the ladies

So famous... tito's tacos in culver city, california--the perfect food stop before hitting LAX airport for the long haul back to nyc. my first visit to tito's was when i was 18. one of my bf's in high school showed me this secret (mexican) garden and it's been a top mexican food joint in my book ever since. i always order tacos but this time i also ordered a bean, cheese, and guacamole burrito--dang, to die for. steal of a deal prices-- it's a divine eat-in-your-car date night, ha. be prepared for long lines but don't be deceived they have these insanely quick women behind the counter who are constantly weeding through the anxious crowds. i promise, they will get your orders to you quick and hhhhh-ot! (im' over selling this, ok..bye!!)

chichi \SHEE-shee\, adjective: affectedly trendy

2011-09-09T19:41:00.002-04:00

Fashion's Night Out, 09.08.11, what they were wearing...

Nº1 duet!

Nº2 glamour oxfords

Nº3 loafers

Nº4 the pocket square on patterns, patterns, patterns.

Nº5 not going to lie i wanted a shot of my new animal print loafers.

Nº6 tory burch (endorsement)

Nº6 great hair/head band

Nº7 classic oxford

Nº8 hairy chest vibe.

how to love

2011-09-06T23:13:00.001-04:00

well, the sad news is that labor day just whipped right by us, which equals the end of summer. however, i made a little video to capture the last gems of yet another magical summer season. life can get rough but it's these little moments that keep me chill.

desert sun

2011-09-06T21:40:00.003-04:00

a three hour drive through the desert this past weekend--a few miles near the arizona border. i took a trip with my mother to visit my brother somewhere in the middle of nowhere near blythe, california. we drove in the early hours of the morning, and as painful as it was to get up at 3am--it was well worth the glorious sunrise that i saw over the desert skyline. 91 degrees outside. a wild beauty. it made me appreciate my times in the desert growing up ( maybe one day i could own a little shack in palm springs--that would be ultimate). i wish i had all morning to take photos of the sight that early day. it was a perfect drive. quiet. and on our way back i saw the sunset. i soaked every last ray in before the sun disappeared into the night sky.

california sunrise Nº1

california sunrise Nº2

california sunrise Nº3

california sunset Nº4

oh, beyoncé.

2011-08-30T18:12:00.002-04:00

Love on Top
click the link
(and you have to watch until the very end to have your heart melt a bit.)

dear irene,

2011-08-28T17:52:00.002-04:00

i've never before in my life experienced first hand what it means to "prepare for a hurricane." never would i have thought that i needed to consider a hurricane while living in new york city. both of those concepts became my reality this past weekend. i awkwardly went about the grocery store yesterday morning, trying to pick dry goods--i made such odd purchases in my hurricane judgement haze. i bought cran-apple juice, "goober" peanut butter and jelly, matches, a candle, and some kettle corn chips. i think i just wanted to escape the madness of society around me, so i gave up and checked out. it was interesting watching everyone in a panic and raiding every last can of god knows what on the store shelves. somehow i needed to feel removed. i had hoped deep down that this was just a bunch of media scared neighbors. i had decided to believe it wasn't going to be that serious, and it would all be over tomorrow night.

it's sunday evening. the air is eerie but calm. the wind is strong but refreshing.we took a walk earlier today through prospect park--i had to see the aftermath from the nights heavy rain and winds. i was in awe of nature. massive trees with broken arms, leaves scattered everywhere, and the sky--rich, heavy, and grey. i'm thankful that it wasn't so severe. i am thankful for how it brought about some unexpected but quality bonding within our community. i took a few photos to document irene's mark over the city. here they are:

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Saturday evening, August 27, 2011

interview: haus of shim for ernest alexander

2011-08-26T10:18:00.001-04:00

it seemed like an oasis tucked away in the swampy, summer, urban jungle of manhattan--my friend haus of shim, a bag designer for ernest alexander, summoned me over to to check out their outstanding men's bag collection (and snag their internet to finish up my work emailing at their headquarters). i thought that was the best idea i heard ALL day. i had my eyes set on their nautical bag (and no jokes here, i've received tons of compliments on it since the purchase).

as i noticed her going about her work day--i was so impressed with her multi-tasking skills, and i'm not just talking her ability to handle phone calls, make a sale, and host me--im referring to her ability to design bags, oversee production, act as a PR agent, answer emails, handle EA accounts, and plan parties for friends on the side. i am sure i only covered half of her job duties here. all this to say--i felt led to dig a little deeper into this bright mind of hers, and here's what came out of it:

DG: haus of shim (HofS), can i ask you a few questions...you know, for the blog?

HofS: yeah, of course.

DG: how did you get started at EA?

HofS: I started as an intern during my spring break of design school at London College of Fashion Cordwainers Accessory program. then, the following summer I was brought on board as a part time freelancer, and then by the fall, full time employee!

DG: what's your favorite EA bag?

HofS: my favorite bag of the moment is the nylon adjustable brief which will be on our website in a couple weeks. It's like a regular brief case, but with handles that can be held like a regular brief, or made long, to go over the shoulder like a tote!

DG: what material do you like designing with most? why?

HofS: i love working with leather. It's what i specialized in in school, and I love all the different textures it comes in, and how it gets better and better looking with age. the way it breaks in underneath your finger tips!

DG: what does a typical work day at EA look like?

HofS: there is no typical day at EA. days could involve going straight to one of our 3 factories and working with the pattern makers and sewers on a new bag prototype, running around the garment district searching for new neckties, new buckle, lining material, etc... usually ending with sitting at my computer answering emails and helping with our PR.

DG: what inspires you for your work?

HofS: i'm inspired by the most random things. But mostly I try to think about the people who would wear Ernest Alexander. What they need in a daily bag, and how to create something that is functional but also wonderful to look at, and makes you feel good when you wear it. I guess more abstractly I get inspired by colors a lot. Different shades, and color combinations, what sets off what... makes things look warmer or cooler.

DG: thank you so much, i love you.

HofS: hope this works for you! xoxo (she didn't actually say "xoxo").

instant

2011-08-20T10:38:00.001-04:00

a few of my top picks from the instagram photo application. it's been a real hoot taking pictures and instantly picking what vibe i want to manipulate the picture into. endless choices: x-pro II, early bird, poprocket, 1977, nashville, and the list goes on...i think what i enjoy most of the app. is seeing other people's instant eye catches. we are all like little judges, casually commenting and liking on everyone elses photos--that's what i dig the most--it's strictly photos!

just a little tenderness....just a little genius.

2011-08-14T21:46:00.000-04:00

recipe:holy guacamole

2011-08-14T11:35:00.001-04:00

i think i would be going out on a limb to say that i love cooking. there are certain dishes i've perfected (in my mind) and i enjoy making them...over, and over, again. making guacamole is something i take pride in. perhaps, because, it's something i learned to make from my mom, and she makes the best guac- in town.

1 purple onion

2 green chile

2 cloves of garlic

1 lime

3 avocados

2 tomatoes

pepper

salt

*go to town on chopping everything, add the avocados, mush it all together, drench it in lime, shake a little pep and salt, smooth it out, and voila.

final touches, get the marg mix, some chipsies, and you've got yourself a pretty little partyyyyyyyyyy.

walking on a dream.

2011-08-14T10:51:00.000-04:00

i like the way he wears his collar

2011-08-08T17:14:00.000-04:00

Nº1 diversity

Nº2 stitches and buttons

Nº3 hint of the old school tanky

Nº4 denim button down with a tie, nice.

Nº5 1/2 & 1/2? (one collar curled/the other straight, sweet dude.)

nothing beats a solid oxford button up--that's what i would argue. there is something so appealing about a well tailored shirt that helps define and refine the shape of a figure. can i get an amen? i was at a recent engagement celebration and i noticed all the gentz in their go to shirts of choice. i observed the different ways they liked to wear them--with a tie, one button down, two buttons down, a little off-set, maybe not even ironed, striped, denim, and so forth. it's all good in this hood. there's no one way to wear it and that's exactly why i dig it. such a simple shirt but re-invented constantly. i don't think we'll be saying goodbye to this form of fashion anytime soon.

dames en noir

2011-08-06T11:55:00.000-04:00

hallelujah.

2011-08-01T21:19:00.001-04:00

05.15.11

06.3.11

5.31.11

07.16.11

06.18.11

07.13.11

07.22.11

07.04.11

testing

2011-07-30T10:53:00.000-04:00

just testing out my new 8mm application around the city. probably old news to most app. savvy friends but then again i've always been a late bloomer to most things. i'm sure this is more amusing to me then anyone else. oh well, working it out and thought i'd share some videos that i thought were pretty. i just think this is so incredibly fun.

dark as night

2011-07-27T10:53:00.000-04:00

the city landscape. point of view: williamsburg.

masculine/feminine

2011-07-25T17:57:00.001-04:00

the human figure is so interesting a study. depending on the generation or era--beauty takes on such different roles. what is beautiful? what is fit? what is fat? ages ago beauty was not skinny. beauty was plump. a woman with meat on her bones signified wealth, luxury, and sexiness. a voluptuous woman is beautiful, sexy, and lovely. i write all this because walking around some sculptures the other day-- i was reminded of this...beauty can't be boxed up. let's not suffocate it in our skinny box. shapes of all sizes is a freeing thought.

mellow cello

2011-07-21T22:21:00.001-04:00

a beautiful subway moment.

beach daze

2011-07-21T14:03:00.001-04:00

whip my hair

2011-07-21T13:08:00.000-04:00

it just doesn't get cuter then this.

blue bottle on the beach

2011-07-17T10:12:00.003-04:00

oh baby, there's something about getting to the edge of civilization, land, and society. where the water meets the sand. endless sea--where will it take you? that's always the beauty of it. just the illusions one can come up with. i had an interesting conversation with a friend while at the beach. i realized...i could never make it in kansas. i would feel so claustrophobic. lakes are great, but i realized that i've always lived near the coast. when i needed to escape to the edge--it was always there waiting--practically beckoning me. whether the east coast or the west coast--i have always lived at least driving distance to the ocean. i am grateful for this.

i think it takes a certain type of person to live in a landlocked area and a certain type of person who needs to live by the ocean-- which one are you?

side note: creamy and rich blue bottle coffee being sold at rockaway beach this endless summer. it was so relaxing sipping this refreshing beverage as i sat on the beach and watched the atlantic ocean waves dress the sand in foam. blue bottles up, cheers.

ready for the world

2011-07-15T18:52:00.001-04:00

play that old school jam and make it s-weet!

far rockaway, brooklyn

2011-07-10T21:31:00.001-04:00

just 2x $2.25 train rides away and you're staring at the blissful atlantic ocean. perfect day. perfect water temperature. i was impressed with the far rockaway excursion. more bang for your buck, and a popular local taco joint--2 for $6. can't beat this deal of a day trip. keeping it local.

creator of the desert boot, he lived a healthy life...

2011-07-07T17:50:00.001-04:00

The GQ Eye: Nathan Clark

Restaurant: Red Rooster

2011-06-30T19:44:00.001-04:00

too much, too much. this place is amazing and well worth the trek. this restaurant is alive and well. the music--constant R&B jams. just fine. the food feeds your soul (practically) and everyone who works there seems to be having a GREAT time.

(and it just so happens there's a secret bar that is kind of amazing in the basement. one must find their way down there, especially with that two hour wait!) I recommend making a reservation in advance.

i really enjoyed my experience there. the perfect place to take friends. two thumbs up.

Restaurant: F E D O R A

2011-06-30T19:26:00.002-04:00

undercover, smooth, sophisticated...almost criminal. this swanky joint is located in the heart of the west village. home cooking, sweet supper, wash it down with a summer cocktail, --if that's what you're craving--FEDORA is where you want to take that fine single lady.

paris

2011-06-18T18:06:00.004-04:00

need to get away to paris? nyc has it's own version--the classic Paris Theater, located in one of the most proper spots of the city. Right on 58th st. next to the luxe plaza hotel (sweet stop for afternoon tea time). this charming theater has survived over 60 years in the ever fast lane times of new york.

it's a pleasant break away from the sexy, explosive, and blow-up "michael bay-ish" world of movies (not that those are terrible, i mean who doesn't love seeing a car transform into a robot!). it's just a different world (i don't know how else to explain)...the paris theater. i feel like it brings me into a time of movie watching that was so appreciative of fine music, peacefulness, rich story telling, and engaging dialogue. i'll be honest, it's somewhat uncomfortable at first, i wasn't always interested in such movies, but I've learned to really enjoy the mission behind this theater, and for the most part, the movies it chooses to screen.

i hope it remains in the city for years to come, a true landmark of quality new york culture.

passing it on

2011-06-16T21:49:00.000-04:00

street smarts Nº1

2011-06-16T21:43:00.002-04:00

boy(s) got swagger

2011-06-10T20:18:00.002-04:00

from time to time i like to give props to men who do their individual style right. it's just cute. boys can be fashionable too!! and when they are...i can't help it, i've got to, got to post it! dressing up can be so fun, whether it's adding a little off-beat funk with the color of your socks, throwing a dapper scarf around the good ol' adam's apple, taming the locks with a vintage cap, rolling up the slacks to let the cool summer breeze in, or just carrying around a hot pink leopard print purse for kicks--it all takes a little effort (but it doesn't subtract from there masculinity ;)), and for that i give these dudes an A+++++ (if they ever asked my opinion, or for a letter grade).

¿donde esta la piscina?

2011-06-09T23:19:00.001-04:00

sometimes you have to let the pictures tell the story--it looks like summer's opened up california's sleepy eyes.

california dreaming

2011-06-07T22:26:00.003-04:00

making her new home feel like home in los angeles, california. a little beacon of brightness tucked away in the city of stars. i found my dear friend's apartment to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing (but not overwhelming) home decor's i've seen in some time.

i shot some questions her way to better understand her inspirations behind the layouts. check it below.

the interview:

D: what inspired you for your home decor?

C: I had a couple beloved Danish modern pieces left from my divorce. I'm not such a midcentury enthusiast and I quickly realized it's quite hard to build a cohesive vibe around it. So, it's been a matter of finding things that can show a little more character than an exclusively Danish (read: lifeless, characterless ...what? You want honesty?) spread. I like cachivaches... and lots of them! So the inspiration for the home was in the spirit of starting afresh, but doing it with my personal ethics in mind: take what I had, add some color and life, and do it by using exclusively recycled or local artisan goods.

D: what are three things you can't live without in your home?

C:
1. Plants-they make it feel fresh
2. Rug-(one of the exceptions to the recycled rule, bought new, but it was cheap!) I spend a lot of time writing and for whatever reason, like to sit on the floor most of the time. A soft rug makes a world of difference and brightened up the space.
3. Currie, the magical cat-He's like furniture: a blanket, entertainment...

D: what do you like about living in los angeles?

CM: There is always good food and inspiring company to enjoy it with. And the constant 72 degrees doesn't hurt, since I love to be outside.

D: what's your favorite thing about your new home?

C: The views. Downtown LA from the front of the house; Hollywood from the back. Magic hour is extra special when the sun sets, because it reflects off the downtown skyline and glows doubly.

D: any suggestions on making your place look smart for cheaps?

C: Choose a color palette, however broad, and stick with it. And let the colors be true to your sense, not just what's in. Just let your eye carry you to those colors. It helps guide you through otherwise overwhelming thrift shops and flea markets. And be patient! It's taken me many years to learn that it's better to wait for the right things than to waste money on "this'll do for the interim" crap. But overall, second-hand is just great for the pocketbook and the earth and people.

D: thank you haute stuff.

taco truck u.s.a.

2011-06-01T22:51:00.002-04:00

hey guys,....do you want to know where the party is at?
el diablo, taco truck 484 union avenue, union pool, brooklyn, ny. have you ever been? just dial it in your yelp app. and you're sure to catch up on on quite a few decent, and trustworthy reviews. the endless summer taco truck is back in action, and you can accompany your cute little carnitas tacos with 2 for $5 budweisers. BFD!

i stopped by for the first time since last summer, and i remembered why it's so good: beautiful back patio, no crazy waitress hounding you to get up and leave, and a wonderful staff on the truck-- hustling out some of the best mexican food williamsburg has to offer (pretty saucy quesadillas too). talk about a cheap date, impress the lady with a real good meal.

i love being mexican. ha.

plato's atlantis

2011-05-31T23:18:00.000-04:00

the big chill

2011-05-28T01:24:00.001-04:00

can i consider this past friday afternoon/evening the premiere of my summer living? i don't see why not--i am in no rush. however, with 85 degree weather, the sun cuddling my shoulders, and memorial day nearer and dearer as ever...i think it's time to slip on the summer oxfords. there's nothing more validating then walking around this city throughout the evening in a tank top, and feeling refreshed by it. i felt so free.

on a related note--im thankful for my job. why? because in the summer we get half day friday's. it's nice. today i spent my first half day afternoon on the rooftop martini bar at the MET. it's a beautiful view over looking central park. it felt like the sun was never going to fade away. there's also a full service bar with all the chillest summer brews and cocktails your pretty head can imagine. you can just sit there, for as long as you want, sipping your gin and juice....laid back.

taking some snapshots with my incredible new iPhone--jeez, too bad i held out for so long.

is it on fire?

2011-05-16T23:03:00.000-04:00

shoot, light that bbq up!

all the pretty girls and boys go to the city,

2011-05-16T22:43:00.001-04:00

and a cinco de mayo party...

savage beauty

2011-05-16T22:25:00.002-04:00

the alexander mcqueen exhibit at the MET is worth it. a few weeks ago i popped in the good old MET for a viewing of the recently opened exhibit, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty. a celebration of mr. mcqueen's fascinating and extreme contributions to fashion. he has forever made his mark on the scene of style. he really was such a talented young man who knew how to tap into the most delicate and yet darkest parts of his identity--bringing the two worlds together for the most brilliant collisions ever, which played out in all of his collections. i don't know a lot about a lot, but what i have come to learn is that some people are blessed with insane talent--such a special gift they have, and it comes with such a high price.

i enjoyed the exhibit thoroughly (open through July 31 2011), and i recommend the audio tour, which is something i normally don't do, but if you have the extra $7, the extended insight is quite valuable.

walk the line

2011-05-02T12:25:00.003-04:00

i think i've realized over time that i'm very involved with the seasons of nature. i am definitely a sensitive sister, one could say, when it comes to the changing of weather (i'm sure it's obvious from past posts). i think seasons effect my mood a great deal, and i tend to be very reflective of how seasons play as milestones in life. i like it that way--reflecting on where i am now, as a comparison to where i was a year ago.

this past weekend was a mega rockstar in regards to weather. we took a stroll down the high line--one of my top five favorite things to do in nyc (i'm not exactly sure what the other four are, but i'm positive i could think of them if necessary). the temperature was almost perfect for the leisurely stroll and i took in all the cute flowers. i like flowers. robert hammond is the architect behind this wonderful gift to the city.

the high line is a 1.45-mile park built on a section of the former freight railroad called the west side line, which runs along the lower west side of manhattan. it was once abandoned but was recently turned into a gorgeous park. it runs from gansevoort street up to 20th street off of 10th avenue. it is not finished and another section will be added to the park very soon.

i love that it's free.

flat matt!

2011-04-27T21:16:00.002-04:00

good friends do things for you that aren't typically ideal or perhaps even beneficial. my young nephew--a terribly charming little boy, recently asked me to take his little friend (flat matt) around nyc for a class presentation. i felt so honored that he even considered me for the commission. i love this little nugget so much; but it bums me out completely to think that he grows up not really knowing his auntie, so i jumped at the opportunity to help this kid's life out. i also thought this would be fun, but with the complexities of a work schedule--i found myself in a bind. however, like i said, good friends come through.

check out roxy's adventures through the big apple with flat matt. i thought it was awfully cute. touched the top of my heart.

throwback: california

2011-04-23T13:22:00.004-04:00

this song gives me those sensations that bring the mind back to college. nostalgia. oh, the simplicity of living in a dorm and going to the beach before class (and then after) everyday, spring and summer--no big deal.

hmm, to everything there is a season...turn, turn, turn.

dirty gold:

explosions for your eyes

2011-04-23T13:11:00.002-04:00

it's like magic. all these old withering trees--grey and dry from the winter's stronghold. then, like the flip of a switch--cherry blossoms set off like fireworks, bursting life into these silenced branches. it takes a few seconds for my eyes to register, and it's truly remarkable how pretty they are. it's as if the trees are stretching out their newly blooming branches at us--whispering: notice me, look at me, do you like my new dress?

hanami is the centuries-old practice of picnicking under a blooming sakura or ume tree in japan. the custom is said to have began during the nara period (710-794) when it was ume blossoms that people admired in the beginning. it was, at first, a practice only acknowledged by the elite, but eventually all society took part in this refreshing ritual. under the blossomed trees, people had lunch and drank sake--cheerful until they passed out from the warm pure delight of spring.

let's find our cherry blossom trees, lay out our blankets, and raise a toast of our own sake to the season these blossoms are signaling is at hand.

for REAL.

2011-04-19T23:41:00.001-04:00

every now and then i read something that i just have to post. something that resonates so well that i can't go on without sharing. like a hidden treasure i found--i'm not satisfied until i can share the wealth. an insightful passage i read today on the subway:

"What is REAL?" asked the [Velveteen] Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"

"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real."

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "when you are Real you don't mind being hurt." Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"

It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. " You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't often happen to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand."

--from The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

born this way...

2011-04-16T22:36:00.004-04:00

ok, so not really. the theme was halloween in april, and quite a pleasant surprise--everyone ran with it! i would just like to make note that dressing up for halloween in april, not to mention in nyc (hardly anyone owns a car), takes some serious cahones. people stare, ask lame-o questions, and it can be a bit embarrassing if you're not up for the attention. it's not like you can just hop in your FIT and get from one borough to the next. for example: the giraffe girl--she had to walk around the lower east side with that huge top half of her body in tow to make it into the club--mad kudos. Cheers to the beautiful birthday girls of april...so glad you were born this way.

can you guess the celebrities?

fine cigars and celestial celebration

2011-04-16T12:29:00.001-04:00

good morning saturday. cheers to tyler and jess: an engagement we had the honor of celebrating this last friday night. a tradition of cigars and whiskey--thank you gentlemen for letting us ladies join in on the masculine ritual. although it was a chilly night for april--haus of shim hosted a merry gathering that compensated with the overflow of warm spirits and rich eats.

a moveable feast

2011-04-02T17:59:00.001-04:00

"It is necessary to handle yourself better when you have to cut down on food so you will not get too much hunger-thinking. Hunger is good discipline and you learn from it."
-Ernest Hemingway, "Hunger is Good Discipline," A Moveable Feast

i feel that much of your beginning days in nyc are days of hunger. what kind of hunger? a hunger for food, a hunger for your passion, dreams to come true, a top job to come about, an apartment to fall on your lap (that's actually in your price range), and a chance to "really make it,"--to be the best. people come in and come out of this transitional city. sometimes you meet wonderful people--they change your life, and so forth. i met a cool girl who's leaving us soon for the city of lights--paris, france. i've learned so much from the story of her life.

thank you.

endorsement: bill cunningham

2011-04-02T17:10:00.005-04:00

"he who seeks beauty, will find it." -bill cunningham

I recently went to the movies with a dear friend of mine (i actually found someone who enjoys documentaries just as much as i do! i think). it was a lovely night. a misty spring evening. the empire state building discreetly lighting our path. it's faint yellow lights watching over us through the blankets of fog dancing around it.

the film was based on the fascinating life of bill cunningham. a simple man with a passion for beauty, and an endless appreciation for the colorful style of new york city street walkers--capturing individuals from celebrities to nobodies--over all the transitioning decades. a man of humble convictions, i was taken back by how he was able to surround himself in nyc high society, but remain consistently true to his deepest and most personal standards.

I respect that.

Happy Bday Jaqs

2011-03-29T21:37:00.000-04:00

talented friends

the swan queen

2011-03-28T23:35:00.007-04:00

SWAN LAKE: we all know the timeless, romantic, russian tale of prince siegfried and odette, the swan queen. prince siegfried is running in the forest with his new crossbow (a gift from his mother on his 21st birthday). he is becoming a man, and must soon marry. however, he finds no interest in any of the anxious young ladies desperately hoping to catch his fugacious attention. he runs from his party with his new gift. getting far into the forest, he finds a special lake. this is where he finds a unique swan. as dusk falls, this magical swan turns into the most beautiful woman he as ever seen. he falls in love with her. she is odette, the swan queen.

odette explains to prince siegfried of the spell she has been put under by the evil von rothbart, who just so happens to have disguised himself as the prince's mentor. the only way the spell can be broken is by a young prince, who must be pure in heart--confessing his true love for her.

the mentor clouds the prince with more parties, and more fine young ladies, but the prince can only think of odette. he is distracted, but pretends to enjoy dancing with the other maidens. suddenly, von rothbart brings his daughter, odile (black swan), to the party. the prince is captivated by her beauty too--oh no! ...he is under a spell and thinks odile is odette--terrible. the prince is tricked, and confesses his love to the wrong girl. odette tragically watches on...is it too late?

now i think the ending of this wonderful story is up to you. over time there have come to be various versions of this grand ending. one being that odette forgives her prince for being confused, and they jump into the lake together, in love forever. a second ending--the swan queen realizes her prince has fallen in love with another. in her last moment of humanity and loneliness, she kills herself before being turned into a swan forever. a third ending--von rothbart fights over odette with the prince, and the prince looses. von rothbart takes odette triumphantly to heaven. the list of different endings goes on and so forth.

some very fine dames and i had the privilege to experience this ballet over a month ago at the lincoln center. it brought some of us to true tears. it's beauty in dance, form, sound, and story never ages. in that very moment, i wanted to be a ballerina (perhaps even a swan). the way they moved and glided across the stage, every muscle in true discipleship to the ballerina's graceful command. how can one not respect this dance as a divine art? brava!

quotes

2011-03-24T21:42:00.000-04:00

two quotes i read recently from two different dialogues between a friend in nyc and someone they know in tokyo, japan:

Buildings were swinging. Real chaos. But I'm alive. Japan is in pain.

But the Japanese are used to this. Earthquake is Japan's destiny. We have small shakes at least every other month.

though these statements seem so simple, I thought they were the most telling. the most compelling. it brought out the humanity of it all to me. i find it so difficult at times to watch or read the news and at the end of it still be able to wrap my heart around it.

beauty: a tribute to a burning star

2011-03-24T21:18:00.000-04:00

liz taylor

pictures courtesy of wwd.com

a recent stroll through the flat iron district

2011-03-22T23:42:00.000-04:00

in her closet

2011-03-18T19:58:00.001-04:00

are you ready?...G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S. meet roxy's closet. when you open the door, the light automatically turns on. like, "oh, hello there!"--will it pick out your daily outfit too? maybe it gives out hugs? humble roxy just shrugs off such comments. i sort of bullied her into letting me take some snapshots of her ever so fun room of shiny and glittery threads. it was really fun, she pulled out some faves, had some cute stories behind certain precious pieces; and she gave me a little run-down on how she likes to shop for things.

one of the reasons i wanted to shoot some snaps of roxy's closet is due to her very explicit and unique style--even for new york city living. i appreciate and admire this greatly about her--especially during an age of fashion where mass production makes it so quick and easy to look like everyone else. i'm just saying, it's becoming quite difficult to stay distinct... kudos to those who manage well! (yup,"kudos"bah hah haaaaa?).

Nº1 roxy
Nº2 vintage from tokyo, japan
Nº3 purses galore
Nº4 3.1 phillip lim
Nº5 studded loafers matiko
Nº6 leopard coat nantte lepore
Nº7 libros
Nº8 kimono, vintage, japan
Nº9 her baby jacket, guess
Nº10 more fun shoes (wedges jeffery campbell, and you know the others)

commercial by sofia coppola

2011-03-14T22:26:00.002-04:00

naturally,

2011-03-12T17:09:00.001-05:00

Visvim Draws Celebs to L.A. Trunk Show - Fashion Markets News - WWD.com

Visvim dying his apparel the natural way, using the resources of the earth he perfects quality colors for his fine designs. read on in WWD by clicking the link in pink.

there but for the grace of God, go i.

2011-03-09T23:54:00.001-05:00

ash wednesday: 2011

giving up alcohol: lent, 40 days

i am interested to hear what others give up and how it comes along

a dear wedding in long beach, california

2011-03-09T23:44:00.002-05:00

--so much so that he cannot call it happiness or pleasure, which are too dependent on circumstances or the five senses; he must call it "joy."

--the call

ARIZONA

2011-03-01T23:31:00.000-05:00

the girls are all right

2011-02-10T00:47:00.003-05:00

it is the inevitable...VALENTINE'S DAY is approaching (quite swiftly at that)--what is one to do about it? well, i'm not sure--but no reason to panic. i had a few dames over for dinner recently, and i proposed the question: what's an ideal gift (to you) for valentine's day? i was hoping they'd be true and free to themselves enough to conjure up what they (personally) thought was fitting...here we go!

ellen patton
coordinator
open society institute

"well...i would vote easily, a home cooked meal."

roxy fata
fashion designer

"something thoughtful and well planned. show me that you listen--quality time, thoughtfulness, etc."

rachel graves
bank secretary
aka mad men

"i'm going with cheese...i mean cheezy. the best gift is to be in a place to recognize the one you love and be lucky enough to spend some time with them. even better admit your love for them. thank them for loving you, and celebrate the joys of love. it's amore!"

tiffany patton
freelance make-up artist

"something that shows he thought about you. once i got a vhs set of the 'back to the future' movies series.' it's about something that shows he's considered what i like, and what we could enjoy together-- that looks like a whole host of things.

bonnie k. mancini
personal assistant/freelance curator

"something not too planned out but thoughtful--leading me through the evening, so i don't have to plan or think about anything--but him and us.

a salt and battery

2011-02-06T00:23:00.001-05:00

will NOT even begin to attempt a front that i know what the best fish and chips should taste like. i live in america, and i've had the opportunity to visit london town a few trips in this life time. each time i visited i did what any embracing tourist would do-- i ordered (at a pub of course) fish and chips. bland, filling, and greased to the "T." standard every time, right?

well in the good old west village, nyc you'll find a little strip of charming shops dedicated to the british way. one being--a salt and battery. quick stop for a decent pile of thick, tasteless, fat chips, and a nice haddock (batter fried to a crisp) slapped on top. good times. i even tried out the bitter/tangy (im actually not sure what vibe i was getting from it) vinegar to absorb the chunky last bits of potatoes. just please do NOT call the chips french fries, my poor friend (who will remain nameless) committed the unforgettable crime; she was harassed about the matter by the jolly cooks for the remainder of our dinner.

ugh, the british, so charming--who doesn't like to be greeted at the door with a "ello love," "thank you love,"??? love, love, love. this place, i think it's safe to claim: the closest you'll get in this city to feeling like you're in the UK for a decent basket of fish and chips.

"a woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life."

2011-02-01T19:46:00.002-05:00

lurve this quote. i remember over a year ago watching coco avant chanel (surprise, surprise?) and the hair on my neck rising to the voice of these words as they sounded over the theatre speakers. I recently cut off just about 10 inches of my hair (i have a great hairstylist/friend btw). however, i was beside myself as i saw my reaction--such sentiment. i did not know how reflective i would become over this decision i had promised to make over two years ago. i knew all along i would donate my hair to locks of love when the time was right; now my hair (chin length) is bringing a whole new vibe to life. i know it sounds a bit over-the-top, but a new hair cut can really bring out a color of your personality that might be unexpected--hey gabba gabba!

quite freeing really-- i believe hair holds stories to it. perhaps symbolic and what not; sometimes one just need to cut it all loose. sort of hilarious, it took four separate pony-tail sections to chop it off all around--hair like a horse, my brother says.

More From Miuccia Prada - Fashion and Design News and Trends - WWD.com

2011-01-31T22:45:00.005-05:00

the italians have a name for their rapturous approach to life: fuoco nelle vene, fire in the veins. yesterday i was at this italian deli, 43rd and 6th ave--a little gem (hole in the wall) you just miss it if you're not obsessively spying for it. it's all ran by a generous little italian man, who thought for a hot second that i was one of those firey haute southern europeans, with passion in their sweat glands. nope, i quickly and bashfully shut that idea down.

all that to say, on my way back to work (super duper italian sandwich in tote) i skimmed through this wwd article--a miuccia prada interview caught my interest. She had a very legitimate and spirituel perspective on fashion shows; the direction in general that high fashion has taken more recently. a quote that i thought was pretty noteworthy:

"Also with clothes that cost little, you need to ask why they cost so little. Because no one ever asks themselves that."

i like this quote because it asks the reader to contemplate what your actions are paying for. can we protest with our dollar bills y'all? can i decide to have quality over quantity? how about those lovely recycled retail stores (just discovered a beacon's closet on my street, holler)? this is something i've wrestled with for years now, and i find myself steadily trying to stir the shopping ship away from the quick fix-- more towards the tailored, quality threads that speak up more for the behind the scenes--not just trying to sport the immediate scene. check out the hot pink link above to read more of the interview.

ouccccchhhhH.

2011-01-26T14:46:00.000-05:00

good reads

2011-01-25T22:13:00.002-05:00

Amy Astley: Editor-In-Chief of teen Vogue

click: A Great Article

Recommended by my dear friend becky

eccentric sOul

2011-01-18T19:20:00.001-05:00

too much ambition

2011-01-16T23:33:00.002-05:00

can anyone stop them?

unintentionally i simultaneously picked up two biographies on two very influential and powerful new yorkers of our day: ms. anna wintour (the editor-in-chief of vogue, usa) and mr. shawn carter (aka jay-z). both have been great reads. i'm always intrigued to understand what lies beneath such focused talent. despite their extremely contrasting backgrounds, there are a few significant factors that are quite similar between them. they are two people who kept their eyes on the prize, relentless in their pursuits, not wavering for anything. for ms. anna it was fashion all the way from day one, and for mr. carter it was telling the story--telling the poetic truth of hustling the unforgiving streets of poverty stricken brooklyn, ny via hip-hop and rap. he wanted to be a voice for those who wouldn't ever be able to speak for themselves regarding a world that most people have no idea exists within america.

i finished "front row" and i've been on to "decoded," i recommend both to anyone wanting to understand two very important players in the ever evolving subject we know as popular culture today.

see this with me?

2011-01-10T21:39:00.001-05:00

i love this record baby, but i can't see straight anymore.

2011-01-10T21:25:00.001-05:00

cheap thrills, lower east side, pianos

funny face

2011-01-08T13:33:00.000-05:00

white as snow

2011-01-08T13:05:00.005-05:00

a place of refuge, a place i call sanctuary, 42nd st. bryant park--the peace zone of mid-town. i work near there and from time-to-time i've found myself there thinking through some of my most major life decisions while feeding the pigeons. i've also found myself there just going blank. During the spring and summer seasons, this is the haven where every career person working near comes to soak in the precious rays of the sun while enjoying there lunches on the warm lawn or pretty picnic chairs.

yesterday was a different story, i walked around this sacred park to find no one on the benches, no conversations in the background, hardly a pigeon in sight. just an abandoned, desolate park with it's massive trees as my company and the ice skaters in the middle rounding the ring (making the most of the last days of their holiday vacation). it was a beautiful winter day, january 7, 2011.

radegast, radical?

2011-01-04T23:14:00.000-05:00

nothing like topping off the first workday of the year with a bratwurst and bier at the radegast biergarten

williamsburg, nyc. the perfect combination to blanket your belly with warm goodness. it was so toasty and comforting inside. the glorious christmas tree lightened my bitterly-frosty mood, ugh...i believe christmas trees should stick around all winter long, i mean sincerely-- we hardly get the chance to enjoy them fully just for the month of december.

cheers loves... to the new year--i'm definitely looking forward to this new chapter of 2011 in my life. no resolutions, no goals, just hope in all the truths promised.

when you are in the club, you dance on the flooR.

2011-01-04T23:01:00.000-05:00

step,step to it-- to the beat

2010-12-16T20:18:00.001-05:00

we are all aware of the wise old saying--"never judge a book by it's cover." Yet i have to confess--i have drawn conclusions about a person's personality type by the shoes they strap on.

sometimes when i am out and about-- i take pictures and realize i have a theme flowing. So a few days ago I was attending a well done christmas party. a-mazing--brandy alexander's lined up--mixed and ready for all the dazzled-up guests to wrap their frosty fingers around. I was scoping out the shoes. not sure why, but i caught a few boots of lovely leather-- i thought i would share with you all's. oh yes, and then there's good old elizabeth--gnarly blue eye shadow.

TESTOSTERONE

2010-12-13T21:55:00.000-05:00

very interesting, very eye opening--it's worth it to listen.

Happy Holidays Loved Ones...

2010-12-13T20:35:00.001-05:00

courtesy of the talented and beautiful @roxyfata

M O M A

2010-12-13T00:14:00.000-05:00

im not sure if i am inspired more by the people and space at museums or the
actual art itself--i am leaning more towards the people--watching their faces--
trying to make out what they're thinking by reading their postures, decoding
their facial expressions. i am sure those museum walls have had millions of
interesting thoughts bounce back and forth from room to room--over the many
years.