Friend Friday: Fitness and Fashion

Dog-walkin' style.

1. Do you keep some kind of fitness routine? Why?
No routine other than walking my dog when it's nice outside.  Why/why not?  Because I'm lazy and semi-asthmatic.  (I've never been tested for asthma, but I'm sure I have it.)  I like doing activities (walking, biking, golfing, skiing, tennis, rock-climbing, hiking, etc.), but have no desire to lift weights, take spin class, or run laps.  Even less desire to pay to do those things.

2. Has working out, maybe training for a marathon or something of that nature, helped with your own perception of body image?
There is definitely a high that comes with an increased heart rate.  But I haven't necessarily connected my own body image with activity level.  Something to ponder, perhaps...

3. When you are hitting the gym or just going out for a long walk what do you wear? Is it about functionality or fashion?
It depends on the activity, weather conditions, etc.  And I don't think functionality has to exclude fashion or vice verse. 

4. Do you feel there is a cultural perception of what you ‘should’ be doing for your own physical fitness?Seems like everybody I know goes to the gym or has some lofty fitness aspirations, so it sort of seems like I 'should' have that too.  But it just doesn't sound like fun to me at all.  It sounds...smelly.  And wheezy.  I tend to rebel against perceptions.  So yes.  But no.

5. Dream big… what would be your ultimate fitness goal.
Ya know...I really like my size.  I would just get toned up. Improve my posture.  Attain some definition in my arms.  Firm up all the loose stuff.  Shrink my boobs...wait, is that a fitness goal?

See how other FBFFer's responded to these questions on Modly Chic.

Hat:  J.Crew.com
Scarf:  St. Paul Boutique (name?)
Trench:  Tulle via TJMaxx
Jeans:  Lux, thrifted via Valu Thrift
Boots:  J.Crew.com

Doggy Bloggy Soul Mates

My heart skipped several beats when I found this blog:  Miles to Style

Unreal.

Geek Out

To the tune of 'Le Freak' by Chic.  
 Teeheehee*SnortSnort*.

A khaki trench was #1 on my spring 'must haves' list.  This one was on the clearance rack at TJMaxx for $30.  Price was right, but the buttons were falling off and I just wasn't in love with it.  I thought I'd replace the buttons entirely, but when I tried to pick them out at JoAnn's, I couldn't make a decision.  

Went home empty handed and finally decided that I could flip the buttons over so the metallic cap (what's it called?) would show.  It was just the thing to bring a little more dimension to the entire jacket.  I loved the result and have worn it nearly every day since.  Amazing the effect buttons have on a garment.

You'll see me wearing it in tomorrow's post.

before

after

Specs:  c/o GlassesUSA.com

Shirt:  Target

Scarf:  Urban Outfitters
Vest:  J. Crew, via consignment shop in White Bear Lake (need a name!)
Jeans:  Target
Shoes:  Shelly's of London via Endless.com

Trench:  Tulle via TJMaxx

Copycat: Not Exactly

http://www.jcrew.com/

Yeah...this is definitely less 'copycat' and more 'inspiration'.  A lot of the spring looks I'm loving are still (STILL!) too warm-weather for my neck of the woods.  I did, however, shave my legs (thoroughly) and paint my toenails this week.  Baby steppin' to spring, y'all!

I really like how messy this outfit from J.Crew is.  My version doesn't capture that so much at all.  This girl looks like she just rolled out of bed, put her hair in a messy bun, wiped some lipstick on and grabbed the easiest items from her closet.  Yet...it works.  She's adorable.  Too bad that method of dressing doesn't usually ever work for me.  But hey!  I did pick up some Aveda rehydrating lip glaze in pink lotus while at my hair appointment yesterday.  Tinted gloss...I'm a big girl now.

Sweater:  Old Navy
V-Neck:  Target
Skirt:  Target
Tights:  Target
Shoes:  DSW
Necklace:  Express? (via church rummage sale?)
Bag:  Elaina Designs

Peek!

Justin Bieber ain't got nothin' on this.

I'm super excited about styling outfits for this new hair [see:  retro + geek + prep].

In the meantime, outfit pics with formerly less-fabulous hair continues...

Hair

I did it.  And I feel very Twiggy.  Which is awesome.

photo

Too bad I'm super behind on outfit pictures so it'll be a few days before my new 'do officially debuts on the blog.  But I'll give you a sneak peek a little later. 

It may be good time to try false eyelashes, yes?



Hennepin Ave.

I hate driving in Minneapolis.  Folks say "it's easy", "the streets are numbered" and "it's a grid."  No.  No it isn't.  But all my struggles are worth it just to bask in the Minneapolis culture and atmosphere.  I pulled up behind this car on Hennepin Ave.  Observing the miscellaneous junk stuck to it (inside and outside) made my day.  Creativity (or insanity) at it's very best.

For the Locals: A Mighty Swell Weekend Ahead!

What: A blink-and-you-miss it vintage shopping extravaganza, showcasing an edited collection of clothing, accessories, home décor, furniture and gifts.

Why? Because affordable vintage is Mighty Swell.

Where: 3109 East 42nd Street, Minneapolis (formerly Umber Studios).

When: Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1, from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

About: Mighty Swell is a semi-regular shopping event, created and executed by local bloggers and vintage-lovers Meghan McAndrews and Rae Danneman. “We’ve been squirreling away fabulous vintage for spring and summer all winter long,” says McAndrews. “We can’t wait to share our one-of-a-kind finds with our customers in the brand-new storefront space!”

http://www.kngsommers.com/

Featured vendors include…

Bourbon & Lace: Thrifty vintage from every era–from darling ’50s day dresses to sophisticated ’60s & ’70s separates to rad ’80s party wear. In addition to clothes for both guys and gals, sized tiny to curvy, there’ll be heaps of purses, bags, shoes and outerwear looking for good homes.

High Plains Thrifter: Ladylike garments from the 1940s on, with an emphasis on quality and allaround loveliness. Walk away with classic trenches, classic suiting and separates, work-ready blouses, weekend-ready denim, sweet lingerie and swimwear and heaps of flattering, feminine dresses. Curvy ladies come first at High Plains, with plenty of goodies sized 12, 14 and up.

Teacup Vintage: Teacup Vintage puts together beautiful seasonal collections of women’s and children’s vintage pieces. We adore dainty details like ruffles, peter pan collars, vintage buttons, polka dots and other feminine touches. Our children’s pieces are classic and soft, with rick rack, lace and smocking galore. We also have piles of vintage children’s books, silk scarves, skirts, blouses, checkered and hand embroidered aprons, shoes, handbags and jewelry. Whether you are looking for something to spruce up an old standby or to create a brand-new look, Teacup Vintage has just the thing.

Top Drawer Vintage: Top Drawer Vintage offers clothing and accessories for shoppers who are on an undying search for one-of-a-kind, beautiful garments. With dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes, gloves, hats and hand bags from a range of eras, Top Drawer Vintage is a collection for women who truly geek out over vintage.

Retro Wanderlust: An eclectic mix of vintage and retro finds for your lifestyle. Great retro furniture, home accessories, fashion and jewelry.

Audrey Rose Vintage: Classic vintage with a few oddities here and there. Styles range from hipster to Hepburn, with dashes of grandma-like classic kitchenware and decor thrown into the mix.

Tulabaru: The loveliest lace. Billowy bows. Ribbons, feathers and more. They all come together at Tulabaru to create a one-of-a-kind treat for you to wear atop your pretty head. Every item at Tulabaru is handcrafted with vintage-inspired pieces. From vintage French lace to old, pretty brooches, vintage details add a touch of flair and personalization to headbands, hats, pins and other goodies.

Vintage dresses start at $10, blouses and tanks for $5 and up and plenty of jackets, skirts, bottoms and accessories starting at $5. They’ll also be more $5 mystery grab bags and a packed rack of rompers and swimsuits that’ll have you wishing it was July. Fresh items will be added daily!

Rounding out your shopping experience? Donuts and coffee from A Baker’s Wife every morning and tunes c/o Girl Germs Radio all weekend long.

w. http://www.mightyswell.com/

t: @mightyswell
f: facebook.com/MightySwell

Easter Sunday

I wasn't going to buy anything new for the holiday this year, but then I spotted this bright trench dress at Valu Thrift and couldn't resist.  

Church - packed, band - loud, choir - rockin', pastor - preachin', sun - shining.  

What a perfect Easter Sunday.

"The angel spoke to the women: "There is nothing to fear here. I know you're looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said...."

- Matthew 28:5-6, The Message

Friend Friday: Inspiration

1. Which celebrity (celebrities) do you look to for fashion inspiration?
There are several.  But lately I've really been appreciating Nicole Richie's style.  She just makes it look so easy.  She's always perfectly layered and accessorized.  She's classy and boho and trendy and vintagey all at the same time, it's amazing.  I also love her witty, sassy personality.  She's the whole package.

2. When it comes to your own personal style, what inspires you?
Bloggers!  Discovering the style-blogging community has changed my life, but not just in the ways of fashion.  At one point, I had prayed that God would lead me outside the walls of my church and workplace to find others with similar goals and interests as me - before I even knew what a blog WAS.  I've had some real revelations about my own style through reading others' opinions and experiences that I may have never come to otherwise.

3. How do you hope to inspire your readers?
My purpose is to communicate that personal style doesn't have to be complicated or expensive.  It's fun and exploratory and even affordable (!!!).  All it takes is a little imagination and resourcefulness.

4. Outside the realm of fashion who/what inspires you?
Do-ers inspire me.  Real-life people (women) who don't just talk about their dreams, but actually make them happen.  For example:
Ashley: joined the Peace Corps.
Gussy: quit her day job to pursue her handmade business.
Meghan:  turned a passion for vintage into a Mighty Swell boutique.
Cinda:  founded the 3/50 Project.
Just to name a few.

5. And since Idol is ending… Which songs inspire you?
Songs?  On Idol?  I like Haley (most improved) and Casey (he's fearless...and sexy).
How 'bout bands/artists that inspire me....  I have a wide range of 'likes'.
In general:  Sara Groves. The Ting Tings.  The Killers.  Michael Jackson. 80's Madonna.
Most recently:  Florence and the Machine
Locally:  Ashleigh Still, and the great music born out of my church - I'm so blessed!

Happy Birthday FBFF!
Read how other beauty and fashion bloggers responded to these question on Modly Chic.

Ready, Freddy

Hello.  There seems to be a lack of outfit pictures on the bloggy-blog this week.  Sorry about that.  Here, let me remedy it with a look from weekends-gone-by....

I haven't made a habit of wearing leggings as pants, but as long as my shirt covers my rear, and my Saturday consists of dog walking and thrift shopping, I think it's a-okay.

Speaking of weekends, I'm ready, Freddy.

Blouse/Tunic:  Target

Sweatshirt:  Target

Leggings:  Macy's

Shoes:  Urban Outfitters

Hat:  Rue 21

Purse:  DSW

For the Locals: Opera Tickets GIVEAWAY!

Hey Twin Citians!  Do I have a treat for YOU.  The Minnesota Opera is giving away 2 free tickets to tomorrow night's production of Wuthering Heights at the Ordway Theater in St. Paul!

The first person to email me [spoilsofwear@gmail.com] WINS!

SOLD!  Sorry folks, the tickets have been claimed.

Today's Top Stories

This is what's going on outside right now.  It would be pretty if it wasn't so flippin' annoying. 

Steve and I have been staying with his parents while our bathroom is under construction.  We have a working toilet now, which is good since it's the only one we have. 

A dude from Home Depot came out on Saturday to quote us a refinished kitchen.  So that will probably be happening next month.  A much needed change.

Steve's grandpa in West Virginia passed away today.  He's been on his death bed for years and now he's finally at peace, but we're still sad.

My tights don't fit.  They're too short and sag in the worst of ways.

2 words:  Choir.  Reunion.  Celebrating 20 years of ministry.  10 years since Washed, the live recording at Fitzgerald Theater.  Time flies when you're havin' fun.

My in-laws got a new puppy.  He's the cutest thing I've ever seen.  All 1.2 lbs. of him.  He's a Morkie (Maltese + Yorkie).  I can't get enough of him.

I want to post about Voltage, but it's taking me forever to sort and edit photos.

Blogger got a face-life?  I'm confused now, but I think I'm going to like it later.

Tomorrow is my Friday (kinda sorta) - hip hip HOORAY!

At the Opera

photo:  c/o Bombshell Beauty

Me, Lori, Heidi, Sara

You guys.  Le Miserable and Phantom of the Opera are Musicals, not Operas.  This I now know for certain since attending Minnesota Opera's Blogger Preview night - Bernard Hermann's Wuthering Heights.  It was tragedy and drama like I'd never experienced in theater before.  Perfectly romantically drearily dark and wonderful. Do you know the story?  I had not read the book or seen any PBS specials of the classic novel, so it was all new to me.

The Opera was much better than I expected.  Not only is the whole thing in English (thank goodness), but there are also subtitles provided (because some of those notes don't come in every consonent).  Speaking of notes, the singing...holy macaroli.  Catherine Earnshaw's character played by Sara Jakubiak possesses the most outstanding vocals I have ever heard.

The set was also impressive, with some amazing video technology and 3-D effects.  It felt like we were really there.  During intermission, we were able to take a peek back stage.  I've been to numerous shows at Ordway, so it was a real treat to see it behind the scenes.

I attended the event with my good friend Lori.  We met up with Daniel from MNOpera and the rest of the bloggy crew at Sakura in St. Paul and pigged out on tasty appetizers.  It was so fun meeting other local bloggers including Sara of Bombshell Beauty, Emily of Wandering About, Molly of The Way I Am, Emily of TC Jewfolk, and Kate of Girl Meets Geek, along with others from the press and MNOpera.  Michael Christie, the conductor for the show (who I believe to be Ron Livingston's twin) took the time to greet us all, briefly explain the history behind Wuthering Heights Opera, and answer some questions. 

Photo:  c/o Girly Muse

These are the days when I love living in the Twin Cities (regardless that it snowed on Friday!).  The people here are so diverse, yet most all of us agree on one thing - growing and supporting the arts.  There is no entertainment that compares to live theater/music and I'm so grateful to have had this experience with the Minnesota Opera.  I highly encourage you to check it out (twitter, facebook, YouTube).  Wuthering Heights runs through April 23 and tickets are available here.  Oh!  And if you're between the ages of 21-39, check out Tempo - culture CAN be affordable!

Iron Fist

There are times that call for conservative and classy.  And then there are times that call for a little bit o' CRAZY.  I came across this brand in one of my many shoe searches at heels.com and initially was like, "What the....?"  Immediately followed by, "I HAVE to have those sequin shoes or I'll DIE."  After several moments of an internal tantrum, I pulled myself together and decided that they are worth waiting for.  Waiting...until I have more than $0.01 dollars in my 'fun' bank account.  Waiting...until they're back in stock (but if you're a size 5, go for it.).

Upon further research of this brand, I have concluded that although slightly frightening...I approve.  Go tell it on the mountain.

Thelma Bootie - Black

Nightmare Of You Plat - BlackRed



Twinkle Toes Plat - MultiSequin



Frakattack Platform - Blue



Knees Please

TGIF.  I'm pooped.  How I would love to do a FBFF or Weekly Gratitude post today, but my brain...it hurts.  Counting on a whole lot of carbs and coffee to get me through the next few days with the fashion event of the year tonight and likely working on our bathroom remodel this weekend.

I am oddly obsessed with knees and elbows, so I welcome any special attention to these body parts.  It must be the extra skin that is so appealing.  I like to grab at loose elbow skin and smush knee skin together so it looks all wrinkly.  Is that gross?  I don't care.  It is also why I like Pugs and Bulldogs and Sharpeis...extra skin.  However, it is not why I like old people.  I like old people because they're funny and wise.

I'm all about elbow or knee patches as a fashion statement.  When I saw these thigh-highs I just couldn't contain myself.  They were on sale (even cheaper now!).  Buy them I did.  They're a little hard to style without being clownish, but I'm ok with how this outfit turned out.  My husband wasn't so sure given the length of this dress, windiness of the day, and appropriateness of wearing this to church.  But I was ever-so careful.  Really, I was.

Dress:  H&M
Thigh-highs:  Hansel from Basel

Shoes:  DSW

Copycat: Fossilized

Look at me!  I'm Quasimodo's kid sister!  Ignore the pose, look at the clothes.  Hey, that rhymed.

No offense to Mr. (or Mrs.?) Fossil here, but my I like my outfit better.  I was really excited about copycatting this one because 1) it isn't from Esprit - holla!, 2) it's so pretty and delicate, which is different for me, and 3) I moved the buttons over on the waistband of these jeans so they'd fit better - new favorite jeans that didn't cost a dime!

So, what else is new?  Well...tonight Lori of Girly Muse and I will be attending a Blogger Preview Night of Ordway's upcoming production of Wuthering Heights.  Super cool, right!?  I'm excited for yet another opportunity to meet other local bloggers like Sara of Bombshell Beauty!

Lots of other great events coming up!  Voltage is TOMORROW and A Mighty Swell boutique is just a couple weekends away!  Don't miss out!

Photo:  Fossil Women's Clothing

Necklace:  Target
Broach:  Gap
Shirt:  Marshall's
Sweater/vest thingy:  Vintage, thrifted
Jeans:  Clothes-swapped!
Shoes:  gojane.com

Houndstooth Boutique

Interesting that I went nearly all day without buttoning this sweater. 

I thought it would make me look pregnant - which I have a slight complex about - because I'm not pregnant - but sometimes folks think I should be - they are mistaken - don't let the glow in these pictures fool ya. 

I buttoned it only to ward off the chill while walking the dog to our neighborhood pharmacy - to pick up baby-blocking drugs.  Ironic?  Kinda.  TMI?  Yep.  It was at that point that I realized that I like this sweater way better buttoned - and it only sort of makes me look pregnant - well, whatever.

I bought the sweater at Houndstooth boutique when I was there for the blogger meet-up.  I looked all over the store for my 'signature purchase'.  Houndstooth has fabulous, trendy merchandise, but it's way out of my price range, so the clearance rack was my only option.  Bravo to their clearance racks - many affordable items there! 

The sweater is by Free People and retailed for $110.  My price = $20.  It was hiding at the very end of the rack, just waiting for me.  Also possible that no one else snatched it up because it looked a little weird on the hanger, as you can imagine.  But I knew it was cool.  I just knew it.

Sweater:  Free People via Houndstooth

Thermal:  Target

Jeans:  Target

Boots:  Target

Necklace:  Premier Designs(?)

Maxi Madness

Ok fine.  I suppose I'll dig deep in my summer wardrobe bins located in my cluttered garage in order to find the only maxi dress I own so I can take part in this month's Everybody Everywear challenge.  Regardless of the fact that neither this fabric nor this print look quite right when there is still snow on the ground.  It's no secret that I'm not a fan of maxi dresses (on me), but I might be coming around to wearing them as skirts.  My husband might put up a fight (he likes my legs - bonus!).  This pairing was actually rather comfy.  And I must've chosen the right shoe height, because I didn't trip - notta once.  Me thinks that deserves a pat on the back for a job well done.  Walking is hard.

Ok all you crafters - and non-crafters like moi.  If you haven't already joined Indiana's new Made This / Love This DIY collective, you totally should.  It's what prompted me to make these fun t-shirt scarves.  Go ahead, get your crafty on and be my friend.  It'll be fun.

Scarves:  I made 'em!

Sweater:  Karma

Dress (as skirt):  TJ Maxx

Boots:  Madden Girl

 

My Dog Can Count

We took a break from our round of disc golf to capture Miles' latest accomplishment. 

Five Bucks

Five bucks bought me this sweater from J. Crew. 

Five bucks bought me the same sweater in vintage fatigue.

They were $88, now marked down to $49.99.

Five bucks bought me these pants from J. Crew.

Five bucks bought me the same pants in rose shadow.

They were $85, now marked down to $29.99.

Seriously. Five bucks.

Brag much?  You betcha.

Sweater:  J.Crew

T-Shirt:  H&M
Pants:  J.Crew
Shoes:  Target
Necklace:  Francesca's
Glasses:  Cliche'

Friend Friday: Spring Trends

FBFF:  What are the top 5 Spring trends that you are looking forward to seeing/sporting this season?

I love this question!  There have been seasons when I feel like the trends are really lame - like they don't suit my style aesthetic, are impractical, stale, or whatever.  This is NOT one of those times.  I'm lovin' the casual 70's and 90's comeback trends - only they're better this time around!

1.  Denim Shirts.

2.  Cargo Pockets

3.  Floral Prints

4.  Wide-leg Jeans

5.  Lace-up Ankle Boots

See how other FBFFer's responded to this question by visiting Modly Chic.

*disclosure