[clearance rack find (for a fraction of their original price): the 'Sardinia' t-strap platform pump, Carlos by Carlos Santana - $99, available here]
[colorful postcards from my traveling sibling]
[currently craving/obsessing over 'chuao' chocolate and their incredibly unique flavors]
[an amazing new night cream c/o iFabbo]
[beautiful blooms in a city park]
Every now and then situations arise where it becomes difficult to put emotions into words. And then, sometimes, other people seem to almost magically do it for you. I'm not a regular reader of the satirical news site The Onion, but if and when I do stumble across links to its articles they often make me laugh. I wasn't laughing at this one, but it manages to capture my–and no doubt many other people's–sentiments during this difficult week. I'm currently looking for small, colorful things to cheer me up–like new shoes, sweet treats, and sunny flowers–and, of course, still praying for the people of Boston.
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I'm a (reasonably) organized person, so when I sat down ages ago to design this site I knew I wanted my posts to be divided neatly into categories. I haven't added a new one in ages, but the concept of a "things I shopped" section has been with me from the beginning. Like any good fashion lover, I like to shop. A lot. And since I use my blog to share what I like, there's no reason why that shouldn't include my shopping. I can't ask for a better subject for a first shopping haul post than a Target collaboration. Although I shopped Prabal Gurung for Target a few weeks ago, after much debate–and many trips to more than one store–I've just now finally decided on which pieces I'm keeping. Since there's a story behind each one, I'll give each an individual explanation:
1. Sleeveless Blouse in First Date Print, Prabal Gurung For Target [$27, available here]: When I first saw the look-book for the collection, this was the one statement piece I had my eye on. I loved the print, the black detailing made it seem easy to style, and because it was a shirt I knew it would be super wearable. I was up past midnight on the collection's launch date, saw Target Style's cryptic tweets, and quickly placed an order. Though the fit's a bit loose, the tank is exactly the iconic but versatile piece I expected.
2. Ankle-Strap Pump in 'Sulfur Spring,' Prabal Gurung for Target [$40, available here]: Though I didn't associate Prabal Gurung with shoes, I fell hard for these sandals because both my sister and I had been looking for the perfect thin-strap heels for ages. I ordered a pair in black along with the blouse, albeit a bit hesitantly because they were a bit pricey for synthetic material. Once they arrived I wasn't too thrilled and decided I'd rather hold out for a higher-heeled pair in genuine leather. Of course when I spotted them in store in my size in this neon color, I immediately changed my mind. Not only do they pair well with rolled denim (one of my favorite looks), they're unique and suit the collection.
3. Short-Sleeve Dress in First Date Print, Prabal Gurung For Target [$40, available here]: On what was supposed to be a trip to return the aforementioned black shoes, I made the dangerous decision to check out the clothing section of the store. There were two of these dresses left, and one seemed to be in my size. A trip to the dressing room later and I knew I'd be walking out with it. Not only did it fit perfectly–though like most reviews say, it pulls a bit over the arms–and was super flattering. I was tempted to return it–as a dress, I think it's a lot less versatile than the shirt–but everyone who's seen me in it (boyfriend included) raved too much over it for me to let it go. Plus, one of the first times I really admired Gurung's work was after Kate Middleton made an appearance in a gorgeous purple printed dress, so this version seems like another worth-while piece to own.
So there you have it–my first shopping post! Sorry it's so long-winded, but there's always a story behind all of my best purchases. I hope you've enjoyed it–let me know what you think, especially if you'd like to see more like it in the future!
[Photos from Barneys New York - $695, available here]
In the summer less is more–but only when it comes to shoes. I normally don't like to show a lot of skin, which means I get a lot of use out of my spring/fall clothes during the hotter months (plus air conditioning often demands that this be the case). I am however all about the sandals as soon as I know I can expose my toes without getting frostbite. Oh how I'd love to have these shoes by the phenomenal Giuseppe Zanotti in my closet. Thin ankle straps? Skinny heel? Edgy metal detailing? Perfect nude leather? All of the above please–and happy summer.


[Photos from De Siena - $595, available here]
I've worn stilettos for as long as I can remember so to be honest their height never frightens me. Crazy as it may sound, I find heels under 4 inches tall harder to walk in than those over 5. I swear by three tricks: platforms, straps, and practice. This pair by the luxe brand De Siena–which is so fabulously made in Italy–has got both a hidden platform and an ankle strap making that +5 inch heel a whole lot less intimidating. I love its combination of textures and colors: satin, leather, and patent all interact to form one stunning shoe. The only thing I can't attest to is the practice–I've yet to test walking in these beauties but I'm sure it's a challenge I could handle.
What do you think? What's the highest heel you feel comfortable wearing?
[Shop the entire De Siena collection here]
[Photo from Kirna Zabete - $1240, available here]
What does a $1000+ shoe from a relatively unknown designer look like? Apparently exactly like this– and I'm liking what I see. Bold, geometric shapes make these shoes pop even though they're beige and black and I love the texture of the stingray and snakeskin on the frontispiece and heel. Chrissie Morris's designs have been called "miniature sculptures" and I'd have to agree.