Travel to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada Day 1 Photo Diary. (Picture heavy post.)
I tried to do One Photo Every Hour for that day, but I hate fiddling with my camera a bunch when I have to take multiple plane rides and family is involved. I don’t want them thinking I’m more vain and weirder than they already must think I am–blogging and understanding blogging involves a different sort of mentality. Esp if you’re blogging about yourself and your style. Continue reading
Two years ago, today, we said our vows in the rose garden of an old stone castle in front of 80 of our closest friends and family. Although the easiest choice, it was also the best one I’ve ever made. … Continue reading
Where have I gone?? I was in the Maritimes in Canada (Atlantic Seaboard) for 8 days last week, and it was glorious. Dramatic winding roads, golden sunsets illuminating massive ochre cliffs and emerald pine and deciduous forests, surprising rain showers that pelt down like hail, and end just as quickly as they blew in, bringing clear, bright light shining off the Atlantic straights like crystal, patchwork farms centuries old with historic and crumbling homes, with whispers of their famous and not so famous residents–just a few of the grand, awe-inspiring things I saw and experienced while in New Scotland.
Let’s not forget the amazing single malt whiskey and the Celtic music!
I’ll regale you with stories all this week and next, however, we came home to a adorable, snuggly Max-Bear suffering from conjunctivitis and another thing (it’s gross), and a dead car (mine), AFTER a 14 hour commute through Irene-infested skies. So while I try to deal with that, I’ll leave you with a couple of photos from the trip. I’ll try to have some edited and posted soon!
{ what did you do last week and this weekend? }
I honestly can’t remember how I stumbled onto the sweet Anna of In Honor of Design. This lovely first grade educator and graphic designer used to run the most awesome e-store with breath-taking jewelry (she closed up shop recently to focus on her busy and fabulous life). However, it wasn’t just her artful accessory creations that had me taken in, but it was her eye for gorgeous interiors and design. While she only recently branched into featuring OOTD posts on her site, her eye for well-laid interiors and architecture naturally translates into her own wardrobe. Ie., she dresses pretty well, despite her protests that she’s just a jean shorts and flip flops kind of girl.
She’s also incredibly humble and down-to-earth, I feel like I’ve been reading her forever.
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Excited to be here while Mae is enjoying Nova Scotia. 
Whether its a scarf, skinny belt, or a killer cocktail ring, the mid range can be a fantastic way to make a fashion statement. Which would be your style of choice?
These were a few examples that had me swooning!
Gold braided belt and statement cocktail rings
Different ways to wear a scarf
Chiffon bow shorts
Photo credits: (via Hello, Friend, Scout and Catalogue, Oui Petite)
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My personal favorite are the shorts. Very different. And very girly. Very Mae.
Thanks for the drool-worthy picks, Anna!
xx,
Mae
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Today’s post comes from Kristy of Toronto Style Blog, Monochroma~chic. You already know that she is a good friend of mine (Blogger BFF, if you will), whom I have gotten to know through sweet comments over the last two years, emails, Twitter and in person a couple times. Not only is she absolutely fabulous as a person, she also has this Olivia Palermo-esque sort of vibe that I always dig. Like our fellow Canadian Comrade, Jen of Her Waise Choice, she has this knack for a fresh take on femininity by mixing up textures and prints with panache. On top of that, her blog name TOTALLY ROCKS.
I asked her to do post about her favorite item, but then she did a whole OOTD post just for me! OMG, I love you, Kris!
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When Mae asked me to write about my favorite item(s) in my closet, I was torn. I recently acquired new things, so obviously I’m still on a honeymoon phase with them (cue in my Sam Edelman leopard shoes). But people didn’t come up with the saying “oldie but goodie” for no reason.
This pleated skirt is over two years old and it’s still one of my favorite skirts in the closet. Same goes for this bangle. Much older than the skirt, but it goes with everything The Michael by Michael Kors tote is also two years old. I love how it can give any outfit an elegant pop of color. Last but not least, the rope necklace is less than 6 months old, but I feel like I’ve owned it for much longer than that. Just like the bangle, this necklace goes with everything, especially anything nautical.
So I guess to answer Mae’s question “What are my favorite items in my closet?”, I would have to say anything from H&M.
Outfit details: Jacob shirt | H&M tank, skirt, necklace, bangle | Michael by Michael Kors tote | Sam Edelman shoes
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See? I wasn’t wrong. Her style is straight up LOVELY.
Thanks, Kristy!
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Today’s post is by my future fellow Hawaiian and e-bff Sharon of Maui-based style blog elisharon.
One thing that strikes me when I read Sharon’s blog posts, other than her sense of humor, her sweet smile, and her SHINY DIVA wardrobe, is how ingeniously crafty she is. So crafty, in fact, that she enrolled in fashion school with (get this) her fantastically gorgeous husband, and together, they make brilliant clothing. Talk about a match made in heaven. (Cue jealous barfing.) No, but seriously, Sharon’s skill with needle and thread doesn’t just stop at clothes. She also makes purses. She was making amazing leather clutches right when the American Apparel clutch craze began with every major star fashion blogger toting one under her arm party, or held in a bejeweled hand. Granted, she sports the occasional Jeffrey Campbell Lita, but I’m willing to overlook that (^_~) because she’s my e-bff AND because her sewing prowess will blow your mind.
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Hey guys! It’s me Sharon from elisharon. Mae asked me to guest post while she’s on vacay. What a lucky gal. I didn’t get to go anywhere this summer. Let’s hope the winter will bring me a great holiday getaway! Fingers crossed.
I’ve always been the creative type. I am definitely a girl who loves to DIY. Even with a busy schedule like mine, I always find the time to make sure I do/make something creative on a weekly (if not daily) basis. A few months back I saw this Celine clutch and instantly fell in love, except I wasn’t in love with the price tag. Sure, to some it may be inexpensive, but to me, it was out of my price range.
Then I came across this American Apparel clutch. It had a much nice price tag, and just as I was about to click purchase, I thought to myself, “Why not make my own?!” The very next day, off to the fabric store I went, gathered some faux leather (hello, economical alternative 
— [Mae: and CRUELTY FREE!]) and made me a clutch.
Since then, I’ve made several for myself. After debuting the clutch on my blog, I’ve received numerous inquires/emails asking if I were selling these handmade beauts. They’ve definitely been a huge hit. Here are a few other’s I’ve made.
And this one has got to be my favorite; classic black clutch with a brass metal zip, but a pop of neon color on the inside. I really love the reaction I get from other’s when I use this clutch, because of the “surprise” element on the inside. Plus, the neon totally makes me smile every time I see it.
I think the way I’ve customized my version of the over-sized clutch is an exact representation of my personal style. I am the girl that loves getting noticed. Blending in isn’t an option. Even with the simplest of looks, I also add an element of sass. Whether it be a pop of color, statement jewelry, a bold lip, or wild and crazy shoes, I make sure to make my outfits very ME. Speaking of shoes, I’m guilty of owning a bajillion pairs. I’m a die hard Jeffrey Campbell fan. Of course, I don’t discriminate when it comes to shoes–if it looks good and feels good (most times the aesthetic outweighs the actual comfort) I’m all for it. Crossing my fingers and toes that one day, I’ll own the coveted RED SOLE! Eep.
To keep up with my style adventures, food escapades, and DIY pursuits, visit my blog: ELISHARON
xx Love & Aloha,
Sharon
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Speechless.
Thanks, Shar!
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Someone whose feminine, polished style I admire is Jen of Her Waise Choice (play on the word “Wise”). This fellow Canadienne always looks put-together, chic and polished from head to toe. Whatever she chooses, Jen always seems to evoke a graceful femininity, reminiscent of on-screen heroines of the 50s and 60s, but with a modern take. Don’t let her charm fool you, her sophisticated ensembles belie her youth! If only I were this stylish when I were 22, college and working after college might have been a whole different story!
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Hi, I’m Jen from Vancouver based personal style blog her waise choice.
Deciding to start a fashion blog has been one of the most rewarding things that I’ve ever done. One of the downsides of it though, for me at least, is the struggle with feeling like I constantly need to have something new and fresh to wear. I’ve come to realize that while shopping is fun, giving in to that feeling is not good for my wallet, my closet or my styling skills. As such, my year in blogging and dressing has become a continuous attempt in staying away from constant shopping; keeping track of how I’ve worn things differently gives me encouragement to stay on track! It’s a struggle sometimes to come up with new ways to wear something, but the results are satisfying in more ways than one.
Here are some pieces that I’ve worn in more than one way for the blog.
For more, check out my Facebook page!
P.S. Mae, I hope you’re having a great, relaxing time in Nova Scotia. If anyone deserves it, it’s you!
Aw! Thanks, Jen!
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With the fun, artful way circus and performance art has infused into mainstream and high fashion, you, too can infuse circus style into your fashion.
As if my best friend sillygrrl needs any introduction…
My bestie Sarah is an aerial ninja, AKA aerialist, and a third of a brilliant Aerial Circus Troupe, so naturally, the artsy, circus elements of performance art that go hand in hand with the indie art scene is something for which she has a knack. Let’s let her break it down.
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With my stripe obsession I end up looking a little circus-y more often than not, so I thought I’d share a few ways to add circus style to your wardrobe without looking like you stepped out of a sideshow.
Put a bow on it: Big or little, bright or covered in sparkles, a hair bow or bow tie is the perfect circus accessory.
Ruffles: Try a cute pair of bloomers under a full skirt (or wear them as shorts) or a ruffled collar.
Black & white stripes: This is my go-to style at least twice a week. I always feel ready to hop on my trapeze when I’m clad in stripes!
Fitted tops with short full skirts: Keep it around mid-thigh (throw on a pair of bike shorts if you’re worried about showing your skivvies), the fuller the better, and balance it with a fitted top or tee.
Thigh high or knee high socks: love them with striped or bows and paired with Mary Janes or tall lace-up boots.
Also try…two-tone tights, lots of curls, a trapeze dress, wide colorful stripes, a tiny top hat, feathered fascinator or a ringmaster-style blazer.
Sources: Spilt Sugar, Theatre Bizarre via SillyGrrl, One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten
See? Trying to add a little drama by wearing a bit of circus style into your closet isn’t that hard now, is it?
Visit Sarah at her blog, SillyGrrl.com to see more of her fierce aerial skills, and her punky, feisty fashion posts.
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Ever wonder what do I wear for air travel? Ever look at celebrities dressed in the most amazing, yet comfortable-looking gear and thinking, I would never pick that? Yeah, that’s basically ME. I’m ALWAYS CLUELESS what to wear to the airport. I want to be a smart traveler, but I also want to look nice, because, you know what? as I’ve gotten older I want to look like I take pride in my appearance wherever I go. For some reason, flipflops and jeans to me just screams “I don’t give a shit.” (Feet are nasty.) I can look put together AND be comfy, too.
I’m heading off to Nova Scotia as you read this, where, albeit summer, is already starting to feel autumnal and perfectly appropriate for all these crazy pre-fall fashion previews that have been released as temps were soaring to their highest heights. (What’s with that, anyway?)
Ideally, if traveling during my preferred times of the year (September-May), I’d wear this:
How to dress for Air Travel: LAYERS
Air travel demands smart layering skills. I’m skinny. I’m little. I get cold easily and could never wear a dress and heels on a plane. I dress like I’m going to Iceland (I would die to go to Iceland at any time of the year, honestly), because that recycled air in the plane blasts down on poor, hapless passengers like a gale-force ice wind. It bites down to my bones. So a funky T, leggings as pants, drape-y cardigan, beanie, and fun accessories (that you don after security) complete the outfit. Funky boots you can slip on and off add to the edge of the ensemble. The scarf is not only for smart accessorizing, but also to provide further warmth in the arctic fuselage. If you get too warm, you can use it as a pillow.
No outfit would be complete without tech, though, being the techno-junkie I am. This will be my first trip without my trusty computer. It bugs me. But I’ll have an iPad and my iPhone which I’ll be playing endless amounts of Final Fantasy III (not the US III version).
Here are some examples of outfits I’ve worn while traveling.
As I said, the smartest thing to do when trying to decide what to wear for air travel is just to think about layering strategically. Especially on planes. Or in Iceland, and England. Once we move to Hawaii in December, though, dressing for eternal summer will be a whole other monster I’m not prepared to face.
What do you wear when you travel?
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This is a remix slash take two on my How to Wear Red, White and Blue outfit. That day I wore the non-American-Flag outfit, I ended up coming right home and having to go to dinner, so I threw on a headband to hold back my fro, put on some leggings and my Sam Edelman Zoe boots sans harnesses (those things are a bitch to put on).
{ Architecture of an Outfit }
Leggings as pants: Well hello, Camel Toe.
I’m not very good at remixing… but whatever.
Would you wear leggings as pants? If so, how would you wear them? Tell me.
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I have nothing to say. It’s been an extremely trying and stressful week. How do you get by? You smile and fake it until you get home so you can have a good, cathartic Stress Cry.
I’m guilty of lying.
Have you ever done that, lie to get by?
Ever wonder how to wear red, white and blue without looking like a walking embodiment of an American Flag? I have! How in the world can you spin wearing red, white and blue without looking like an advertisement for the Tea Party? The answer is to take it to the next level with color blocking and adding gorgeous and fun, mixed prints. Again, my go to is stripes on stripes (one of things at which I’m awesome).
This vintage silk skirt is a color blocked pencil skirt with red and navy. But the red is sparing and kind of expertly placed. The result isn’t American-Flaggy.
Instead of stark white, wear creme/ivory/off-white and wear prints on top. It’ll give visual interest and detract from the patriotic color scheme. This red and white cardigan with vertical stripes has a slimming effect, while the horizontal creme stripes of the tank in a different toned red plays up the print opposition and downplays the blue. Instead of a blatant red, white and blue scheme, it’s more of a dark skirt with a playful red mix on top.
Because everything’s so busy, don’t bother with a belt or fussy shoes. Stick with nude shoes or something plain like creme pumps or navy pumps. Don’t go too crazy with shoes. I’m wearing my go-to nude strappy Dolce Vita Jade wedge heels, because well, it’s better to be subtle to counter-balance the mixed prints on top.
The last thing to add to this is to have good posture and a smile. Nothing makes an outfit worse than bad posture and a sulky expression.
Stripes on stripes mixed prints and color blocking: THAT, is how to wear red, white and blue!
Any questions?
{Outfit architecture}
Creme and red peppermint drape cardigan, Spotted Moth
Vintage navy and red color block silk skirt (similar options)
Red and creme cotton sateen tank, Forever 21 (similar options)
Lace nude tank, Express
Nude strap suede wedge heels, Dolce Vita Jade
Earring: Rockit Boutique
Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs heart locket watch
PS. On a personal note, I’ve been having a lot of stress in my personal life. If I’ve been a bit more volatile (Twitter) or missing in action lately, it’s due to stress. I’m sure things will clear up soon. Thanks for all your well-wishing.
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Another item in my How to Mix Prints series.
The first, baby step of wearing clashing or mixed prints is usually to wear two prints with a unifying theme or element, such as color, stripes, similar-but-different-prints. Say, if you’re wearing a navy blue and creme polka dot blouse, you can wear a navy and creme striped skirt, if you make sure the prints on each balance each other out and aren’t too loud. But once you’re comfortable wearing mixed prints that obviously have a recurring element, why not try to get into more iffy, edgy, daring waters by straight up CLASHING PRINTS? How to wear clashing prints?
I’ve done it before:
How to Mix Prints in a Stylish, Daring Way: STRIPES and LEOPARD!
(Sorry for the Instagram photos of my outfit, I was too busy to actually take proper outfit shots, so the best I could do was Insta.)
Outfit Architecture: J. Crew raw chiffon flower, nude leather skinny belt (both sold out, similar belts from ShopStyle); Forever 21 leopard maxi skirt (sold out, similar skirts via ShopStyle); H&M nautical stripe tank (sold out, similar choices via ShopStyle); Dolce Vita Jade nude wedge heels (not pictured).
It’s a lot more daring than most people are comfortable with. There is no unifying print or element in them. The trick is to wear something bold with something less bold. It would’ve been smarter to wear a large stripe tank here, but I don’t have one. However, I saw almost this exact same outfit recently in a J. Crew display. I’ve been doing leopard on stripes and leopard + other mix prints for months and even years now, so when the stylists at J. Crew do it in their Pre-Fall campaign, I know I’ve been doing something right all along! (Their stylists are A+ brill.) If you’ve reached a comfortable level with wearing mixed prints, try totally clashing. Just keep your proportions balanced. I wore the nude belt and paired it with nude heels to keep everything else non fussy.
Why mix and match when you can clash?
Do you find this series helpful? What else do you want to see? What combo of mixed prints would you recommend for me to try wearing/styling?
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Thanks to Instagram, Picture Show and Camera Samp apps on my beloved white iPhone 4, I was able to document my weekend pretty well compared to most weekends. I spent time lounging about the house, watching movies, eating a LOT of fresh, healthy food, watching Kdramas, cooking, running errands and hanging out at the coffee shop while working on website stuff. Pretty awesome weekend. Still not enough sleep or coffee to tackle what I face today in the office, though.
No proper time to document an outfit, or post a regular outfit pic, so I’ll just leave you with Instagram.
And on a sidenote, though I didn’t take a picture of him, it was nice to meet Jon of Getting Beat Like You Stole Something at RustBelt Market (I brought him an iced coffee to beat the heat in the artisans/flea market), and we chatted as if we’re old friends. (Kind of are, considering we’ve been blogger friends for like, 2-3 years now? If you’re reading this, hey, Jon! We need to meet up again soon! Yeay!
What did you do this weekend?
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One day early last week, I looked like the Asian version of Jennifer Grey in Dirty Dancing. My big 80s AZN Fro, flowers up in my hair, nude heels, nude tank and a full skirt, I heard the iconic opening riffs of “I’ve Had the Time of My Life” playing over and over in my head whenever I’d get up to pick a document out of the printer across the building. The tight nude tank and full skirt were definitely oddly reminiscent of dirty dancing clothes. With my pouffy hair, I totally felt like Jennifer Grey…
{ Architecture of an Outfit }
Gettin’ “nude” with Jennifer Grey, Dirty Dancing Style
Dirty Dancing, like Jennifer Grey?
{ Outfit Architecture }
Chloe Loves Charlie linen cropped jacket with asymmetrical zip lapels
H&M nude tank
J. Crew (2009) full cotton skirt in rust (sold out, similar)
J. Crew (2009) Flower sash belt worn as head piece (sold out, similar pieces)
J. Crew nude leather skinny belt (sold out, similar belts)
J. Crew pearl collar necklace (sold out, similar necklaces)
Dolce Vita nude wedge heel (Jade)
House of Harlow 1969 gold key ring
J. Crew Acrylic jewel ring, Marc Jacobs locket watch
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