FUR EXPRESSION, FUR INSPIRATION

http://www.carolinesmode.com/ - image

It could possibly be too soon to process Winter fashion fancies in our minds... but when I came across this image.. I instantly fell in love with the 'fur' appeal skirt and her street smart savvy denim vest and animal print ankle heeled boot style.

Fast forward to the Winter days and I can so see myself and all the fashion lovers warming it up in a fur like version of this oh so gorgeous skirt.  I love, love, love xoxoxox.

I hope this image has inspired the Winter wardrobe for some, it definitely has inspired me, to fur it up.. but in a safe sense xo. I  would love to see it in burgundy or mustard...  both are devine Winter palettes xo




Madam Alexandra E. (k)

Brownies and Cookies and Cupcakes...OH MY!

Come support TREND and buy a delicious baked good tomorrow on Library Walk from 11:00am-2:00pm. Everything will be sold for one dollar and everything must go! ;) See you then fashion supporters!

-the TREND Staff

Suit Yourself

THURSDAY: DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT
Recommendation: Bridgett, TREND Staff Writer
Paul Smith Spring/Summer 2011

Donner Pass

California
Travel Thursday



Have you heard about the Donner Party? It's an interesting piece of American history that I will let you read about here, rather than discuss on my blog. But my Mom lives very close to Donner Pass, and we went along the old highway when I visited last October. It was very pretty, despite it's dark past.

"Big Journeys Begin with a Small Step."

From a Chinese fortune I have sitting on my desk.

P.s. Can't wait to share some BIG news!

Why We Love Rachel!

It seems like almost all of our recent UCSD Best Dressed ladies have professed their love for the darling Rachel Bilson and her signature style. And anyone can see why. It doesn't matter if she is photographed running to grab some groceries or if she is strutting down the red carpet, Ms. Bilson knows how to dress. Her style is classic, yet eclectic, casual, but undeniably chic. So how does one get her look? It's easier than you think...

For starters, you'll need an awesome pair of Raybans. Rachel is almost never seen without them, and she changes it up between the classic Rayban style and aviators. Just find a shape that is best for your features and don't pick anything too narrow or too wide for your face. Luckily, the folks at Rayban realize that all heads are not created equal, and make their signature sunnies is different sizes now. Yippee!

A great pair of jeans or shorts is also a must. Go for a skinny or straight leg style. This pair of Hudson's will quickly become a favorite in your wardrobe because of the super-soft denim and rich color.

Next, find a flowy blouse. It doesn't matter what color you choose, but Rachel usually sticks to neutral tones like cream's and toupe's. This one from Urban Outfitters is simple enough, but them hemline gives it a touch of pizzaz. Don't pick one with too much design or embellishment, becuase the one thing Ms. Bilson knows how to do best is accessorize.

It's time for shoes! Depending on the weather, you can rock some great looking boots or booties. These slouchy ones from Steve Madden are adorable. If it's warmer outside, try some gladiator sandals or sky high platforms (only if you can walk in them). Nude peep-toes like these will look great.

Now, technically you could call your outfit quits here and look presentable. However, you would not be doing yourself or Rachel's style justice. The biggest thing that makes her style so great is her ability to accessorize. Now is your chance to have fun and make yourself stand out from the crowd. Rachel loves scaves, no matter the weather. This one from Express can be worn easily through spring and summer. If you aren't a fan of scarves, try a stranded necklace instead.

Now, the last thing you need to do is throw on a cardigan or leather jacket, tousel your hair, and you are ready to strut your stuff out the door. See? That wasn't too bad.

Pancakes on a Monday

& More
Good Eats Wednesday

Photo by Nicolette.

Taken on the canal bank of Amsterdam.

What started off as a great raw attempt, really ended up as more fresh fruits and veggies, which isn't a bad thing. But after a few days with minimal meat, things sort of went the other direction. Plus we had a couple of frustrating days with cable AND internet issues in our building. Getting a service man to come out has been a real nightmare. (If you follow me on Twitter, you may have even witnessed my little "hissytweet".) Anyway, we survived by doing normal things again like: date nights, reading books, going to the beach for ice cream, and even walking to our neighborhood Chinese restaurant for dinner. My hand regained circulation from not spending every waking hour on my computer, and even I hit the gym!

But I decided that I will remain raw-inpsired at least 3-4 days per week, because the energy from it feels great! Plus I still have not purchased anything from Starbucks in about 4 weeks. Go me! Two cups of green tea in the am, and lots of water. Oh and did I mention we are currently doing this Garden of Life Perfect Cleanse now? My first cleanse... yikes!

But I did manage to make a few items this week that were a delightful success and consumed in moderation with a healthy dose of veggies on the side ;)

Ribs
    Rubbed with Smoked BBQ Rub from The Spice & Tea Exchange, followed by a coat of Jack Daniel's BBQ Sauce.

Veal Marsala

  

Prepping...

Voila!

I finally played around with my new food processor too, which I made fresh salsa and smoothies. No photos, sorry, was having too much fun. I think I may have found my new best friend!

But Monday came around, like it does every week, doom and gloom, and though I fought the craving, I had to have blueberry pancakes for dinner for some ultimate comfort food. However, Bisquik makes a gluten-free mix that is pretty decent, and didn't give me a stomach ache afterward.

This may be a new way to cure a case of the Mondays!

What's been on your menu lately?

Red & Yellow Tulip

A Photographer's Journal

One of my favorites...

As I'm doing some spring cleaning on my computer of images that need to be transferred or deleted. It's always nice to find one that make you smile and reminds you of a fond memory. This was taken on a spring morning in the Keukenhof Gardens outside of Amsterdam. I will be doing a photo feature touring the tulip garden for the March issue of Belle Inspiration. This photo is newly listed on Etsy. It also makes a gorgeous card set!

Have a beautiful day!