Lake City Lake

70 degrees!

2009-04-23T18:21:00.000-05:00

mustard blouse: BCBG
brown cardigan: thrifted
skirt: anthro

These two again...

2009-04-06T17:09:00.004-05:00

Back in February, I raved about the sheer adorability of fashion-forward couple Joshua Jackson and Diane Kruger. My admirationweirdcrushenvy has yet to subsided and these photos don't help:

Gilda and Gene

2009-03-29T18:29:00.004-05:00

Rachel and I will often post on the same day. It's weird, like we have a strictly internet-based ESP.

Anyhoo, I've lately been in a strictly jeans and t-shirt mood. Anytime that I try and dress all fancy-like, I look in the mirror and think, "Damn girl, you are trying waaaaay to hard." I think that it's this bipolar weather that we're having. Last weekend, it was in the seventies and last night it snowed. I CANNOT KEEP UP. So, in protest (?), I'm more relaxed about being fashionable these days.

Luckily, something came in the mail the other day that allows me to combine my need for basics with pure awesomeness. I give you (drum roll)...

... A GILDA RADNER/GENE WILDER T-SHIRT!

I bought it from that hot mess of a Built by Wendy sample sale that I mentioned a few weeks ago. Now that it's on my back, I know that it was worth the eleven dollar shipping and two week (plus) wait. I even feel okay that the company ran out of the other shirt I bought and failed to tell me until the package arrived. Why? Because this shirt is the definition of greatness. I've worn it for the past three days and I'm about to do a load of laundry so that I can wear it for three MORE days.

Individual Fur Pattern: Yesterday

2009-03-29T13:05:00.003-05:00

Cardigan: Boston Store clearance, 4 years ago
Flower tank: Anthro
Belt: Anthro
Cords: AG
Boots: Timberland

In other news, how much is too much to pay for jeans? These jeans are beautiful--perfectly distressed, great fit--but they're $235. What's the most you'll pay for a great pair of jeans?

In two hours I'm going to a clothing swap at a new vintage store in town. I'm pretty excited; it'll be the first time attending a swap with strangers. Strangers have some good shit, right? I hope so. I plan on doing it Supermarket Sweep style--racing through the aisles, grabbing as I go. I hope I find some good things, as my closet has been a bit bare since I started purging it 3 months ago.

Wedges, of the non-cheese variety

2009-03-26T15:06:00.003-05:00

Giraffe Girl 1 by Karen O'Bryan

Someone please get me a giraffe skull mask so I can wear it on my head and look awesome.

Today feels like SPPPRRRINNNGGG and I'm craving impractical footwear. Usually, I'm a flats-only girl but after reading Sea of Shoes all the time, I'm like gimme some of those Marni wegdes. She makes it look like wearing 3"+ heels is similar to wearing a house slipper! I might disregard my paper (due tomorrow) to go to DSW tonight and investigate some cheap imitations.

Also, now that it's spring and I'm interested in fashion again, I'm particularly lamenting the loss of most of Madison's vintage stores. All that's left is the standard used clothing stores and the over-priced June 3rd jerks. But...I've heard wind of a new vintage shop opening only blocks from my abode. I heard it's called "Good Styles" or something, so Maddie and I will need to investigate.

A Thoroughly Polite Dust-Up

2009-03-25T17:30:00.006-05:00

I'll likely have egg all over my face when these turn out to be all the rage, but really?

They remind me of something you'd see in a British hospital during WWII.

Nurse: Oh Reginald! The war that has brought us together will undoubtedly tear us apart!

Patient: Do keep calm, Gwendolyn! Your blush is quite unbecoming. Now, re-bandage my foot for I must prepare myself to join my comrades on the front and London fashion week is just around the corner.

Nurse: My Darling! Do write often!

Patient: Chipperow, baby. When I miss your lips, I'll put a fag in my mouth and think of you.*

*Line, for the most part, is blatantly stolen from the Arrested Development episode "Notapusy."

2009-03-23T21:50:00.001-05:00

Okay, Built By Wendy. You got me. $11 shipping and it still didn't ship until today? Where's Suzanne Somers and the rest of the Candid Camera crew?

Inspiration: Zoo-e, plus surprise

2009-03-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

You're welcome.

Top o' the mornin'

2009-03-17T19:22:00.005-05:00

Do remember going to school on Saint Patrick's Day as a kid and other students would pinch you for not wearing green? And they would pinch hard past the point of necessity? I always hated that because I would ALWAYS forget to wear green and would ALWAYS get stupid f'ing pinched. Maybe that's why now, despite my Irish heritage, I NEVER wear green on St. Patty's.

Rant over. Real post beginning.

Yesterday, I was in Chicago looking to find some kick-ass Spring boots. Frankly, my search was sort of half-hearted, so I didn't find them. I did find a pair of beautiful red shoes at a store in Wicker Park and while I may not get to use them for tromping through puddles and mud, I will get to wear them for Saturday strolls to the Farmer's Market once it gets a little warmer.

Lucky for me, I don't have to wait until the end of April when the market starts up again to wear them because today was in the seventies! And what did I promise you? I promised you that with nicer weather comes more outfit posts, so here we are.

shirt: thrifted
skirt: ok47
belt: thrifted
shoes: corso como

details:

Doppelganger Doubt (Alliteration Awesome)

2009-03-04T22:59:00.009-06:00

Tonight, my dad took my brother and I out to dinner to belatedly celebrate my birthday. As we were about to order our drinks and meals, the waitress blurts out that I sort of look like Hilary Duff. I wasn't really sure how to respond, so I muttered a stammered "thank you." The more I think about it, the more I think that it was a flattering compliment. Resume and Aaron Carter aside, the Duffster is quite a pretty girl. Still, this is probably one of the most random and surprising you-look-like-so-and-sos that I've ever gotten. Let's look closer, shall we?

The girl on the left is me at a wedding (wearing a dress that you helped me pick). The girl on the right is Hilary Duff. Just needed to clear that up because I'm sure that some of you are confused. I guess that I don't really see it, although, for the sake of full disclosure, I did have a slight, albeit unintentional, Lizzie McGuire faze:

Yes, that's 18 year old me. I was living in Italy at the time which explains the alien tan.

Just because I'm putting off doing what I should be doing (hello midterms), here are the other celebrities that I have gotten compared to in no particular order. For the record and humility's sake, when people tell me these things, I think what they really mean is "you look like the homely sister who's working as an assistant for..."

Maggie Gyllenhall was another one that came completely out of the blue. It's probably weirder than Hilary Duff.

I've been compared to both these ladies. Oddly, I think that Rebecca Hall looks a lot like my mother. For Scarlet (who I actually can't stand outside of Lost in Translation), see "homely sister" remark above.

This is probably the one that I see the most. Funny enough, my mom was told that she looked like Molly Ringwald back in the 80's brat pack days.

And this is the one that I find most flattering.

Readers, please take advantage of commenting and tell me who you're most told that you look like. Or tell me to fucking get over myself. You know, either way.

2009-03-04T15:59:00.006-06:00

I won't even apologize for the rare blog posts anymore. At this point, my apologies have become cheap and too easily given so how can you, my dear readers, take me seriously? All that I can say is that I promise that posts will become more frequent as the weather gets nicer. Believe me, you would not be interested in seeing the dirty coat and boots that I wear daily. I'm hardly interested and I'm the one who has to wear them!

Anyhow, I can hardly express my gratitude for those of you who continue to tune in. I will try, however, by cluing you in to the fact that Built by Wendy is currently having a sample sale. I just bought a summery chambray top (now $10) and a t-shirt (now $20) that I've been longing for since seeing it on the drummer at the She & Him show that I went to with Rachel this past summer. The bummer is that shipping is a whole eleven bucks, but I guess if you consider that the t-shirt was marked down from $45, it doesn't seem too bad. Recession be damned!

Since I don't have any outfits to share with you, I thought that I'd share a couple of images from my inspiration folder (all of our computers have 'em).

If this economic depression can bring about one good thing, I think that it's the return of men dressing like this.

Jean Shrimpton visits the doll hospital.

Maybe my favorite image ever. If I had it my way, I would always dress like a member of a depression-era (I'm seeing a theme here) circus... without the poverty, ostracism, and animal cruelty.

Only Chloe Sevingy has the confidence to pull off a turban with what looks like a romper.

On the set of Roman Holiday.

I'm in constant awe of how stylish Michelle Williams is. Constant. Awe.

Oh, Marianne Faithful. I will resist the punny commentary that your name presents and focus on the sunglasses... and the bangs... and maybe the ruffles, too.

There are plenty more images to show, but I still need material to get me through the rest of the season.

The Duck and Diane

2009-02-20T20:42:00.004-06:00

I don't know about you, but I have a love/hate relationship with fashion forward couples, especially when they look happy and unpretentious. I LOVE that they look so cute, approachable, and into each other. I HATE that they look so cute, approachable, and into each other, leaving me with nothing to make fun of them with in a lame attempt to boost my self-esteem. I know a few of these couples in real life (one of them cowrites this blog), but I unfortunately can't take secret pictures of them to post on the internet so that everyone can gush/admire/cry out of jealousy. Thus, I turn to the world of celebrity.

Imagine my excitement upon seeing this picture of Joshua Jackson and Diane Kruger at the Tommy Hilfiger show at this month's New York Fashion Week.

Ah, how I love a little classic American prep when done right. I'm not sure if I'm into the whole matching thing, but I will forgive on account of sheer adorability and blazer-iness. And is Pacey rocking an ascot? Close enough.

*Photo from Go Fug Yourself

A Girl and Her Dress

2009-02-10T16:45:00.005-06:00

Dress: Leifsdottir via Anthropologie
Coat: some random Marshall's brand
Tights: Target
Shoes: Kenneth Cole Reaction

Spring has arrived...ish.

2009-02-10T16:27:00.005-06:00

Well, it is just beautiful outside and it's taking every ounce of my will to be grateful instead of focusing on the colder days to come. I'm doing a pretty good job I think. Today I managed to wake up before 10:00 and scrounge up an outfit. Not only that, but I also walked downtown and got an iced tea... which I drank OUTSIDE! It's crazy what a 50-degree day will do to Wisconsinites in February. In some parts, 50-degrees is considered down-right cold, but here it brings people out in t-shirts and flip-flops (I am not one of those people).

Anyway, between all of the galavanting in the sun, I got my act together enough to take some pictures of my threads. Enjoy it because it might be the last of this sort of thing for awhile (March, we say hopefully).

I'm not sure if I quite trusted the sunlight at this moment, so I stuck in the dark close to the organ.

But I eventually warmed up and moved to the sunnier kitchen. In this photo, I was unsure if my self-timer was working, so I was looking at the camera with crazy eyes. They had to go.

Braver still, I moved to the front porch and realized that there was nothing to be afraid of. This bike is not mine. It's my roommates, but I do have a matching one in red. Her (the bike, not the roommate) name is Francoise and she lives in the house during winter.

And then I made myself comfortable.

sweater/blazer: anthropologie
dress: vintage
wedges:vintage
bracelet: found
porch: my house

2009-02-08T20:47:00.005-06:00

Dear Readers,

Sorry for being a big loser of a blogger. I guess the mission of the blog failed, as my spirit has certainly been crushed by winter, hopefully not for good, but definitely for now. Here's the kicker. We're just finishing up a weekend in which it was 40-degrees and felt practically like summer. While it may have lifted my spirits a little bit, my fashion spirit is still pretty low. I've been going through this whole routine where I put on a cute outfit, look at my dirty snow boots that I have to wear because it's wet and slushy outside, and think 'what's gall darn point?' before changing back into black pants and a stretched out sweater. Other than that pathetic ensemble, the only thing that I've been wearing is my bed (always in fashion). Yep, I've been clockin' in some Zs much at the expense of my homework.

Over the next few days, I'll try to put some post-worthy outfits together, but no promises of anything spectacular because EVERYTHING in my closet looks staler than the loaf of bread that I just threw away while cleaning out my cupboards. Anyone else having this issue? I'm not just talking winter wear; it seems like every piece of clothing that I own has been worn to death. Blerg! Why do I own so many freaking cowboy shirts?! Or boring t-shirts? Or ripped up sweaters? Why do I only own one pair of good walking shoes and why do my frye's give me blisters every time I wear them?!

Alright, enough of me whining. How about I introduce you to a new fashion blog that I just found? I think that it's very inspiring and it's from Australia, which means (taking a moment to adopt the voice of Oprah) SUMMMMMMMMERRRRRR! It's called Esme and the Lane Way. To get you interested, here are a couple of images (taken without permission) that I found in a few short minutes of browsing:

Must... get... yellow... shoes... for summer... or... will... die.

I love the idea of stripped socks and heels. And swings.

Mmm, green.

Alright. I'm off. Books by 19th century women authors beckon me along with, yes, more bed.

XOXO,

Maddie

It runs in the blood (Dottie)

2009-01-24T10:47:00.004-06:00

Over the holidays, I coincidentally came into some old family photographs on either side of my family. It's so fascinating seeing pictures of people in my bloodline who I've never met yet am so connected to. Even more fascinating was seeing photos of my two grandmothers, Mary and Dottie, when they were younger. It's both frightening and beautiful to see how they've changed and how they've stayed the same. It almost makes me excited to get older and view my life in retrospect.

Here are some pictures of my father's mother Dorothy. She is the most modest down-to-earth woman that I've even met and yet she has one of the most interesting pasts (I'll go into that some other time). She once told me that fashion was "never really anything that interested" her. Looking at these pictures of Dottie, the young vivacious actress that moved to New York City by herself after college, it's hard to imagine that that's true.

This is Dottie during her time in college. I love her Peggy Olsen-esque bangs (only they look much better on my grandmother).

This is from her wedding day. Rumor has it that this dress was made by the same people who made Grace Kelly's wedding dress!

And this is my grandfather whisking her away the day after they wed. Once again, I think that this dress is so Grace Kelly that I can hardly stand it. Seeing this picture makes me pretty sure that I need a dress like that if only to twirl around in front of the mirror. I also love the corsage and how big it is. What she remembers best is the camel-hair coat that she deems entirely "impractical," but so "lovely." And the shoes. THE SHOES!

I haven't scanned the photos of my maternal grandmother Mary yet, but look forward to those to come!

I only have four-eyes for you

2009-01-23T18:15:00.006-06:00

Bespectacled people, prepare to be enraged. I'm a little bit jealous of you. Yes, this is an ignorant statement. I'm very grateful for the services that my good vision has provided for me and, given the option, I'd keep my 20/20 over a sweet pair of tortoise-shells. Still, I just love glasses so much. I do need them to read (my eyes over-focus and cross, giving me headaches. No joke!), but have never had to give glasses a full time gig. I guess what I love about them is how, no matter how the rest of you looks, a cool pair of glasses can make you look cool by association. Plus, they hide dark circles and you don't have to wear eye make-up.

I recently found my dream glasses at the Moscot website:

I love the way they give off a retro-geek vibe, but steer clear of over-sized hipster goggles. They sort of remind me of Anna Karina's glasses, only I think that the Moscot silhouette is a little more me and a little more functional.

The good news? They make them as sunglasses (although I do like the idea of clear lenses better)!
The bad? They're $175 for the frames alone. That's not too bad of a price if I were wearing the frames all of the time because I needed them to see, but it is quite a bit for something that, in this grey Wisconsin winter, I'd only wear sporadically. Besides, there's a recession on! Maybe if I pinch my pennies, I'll be wearing these puppies come June.

If you know of anywhere that I can get similar frames on the cheap, help a sister out!

The Lake City Lake Girls Teach Gym

2009-01-19T17:29:00.004-06:00

Those who can't do, teach, and those who can't teach, teach gym.

Sometimes in winter you want to stick your head in the oven just to get warm. And maybe die, too. Along with dry skin, frost bite and gray skies, winter also comes with a limit of sartorial choices. We're not sure if we're in a position to guide you, but no one else is stepping up to show you how it should be done (or how it shouldn't be . . . ). Class is in session, so it doesn't matter if you have your period: you still have to play. To the courts!

Lesson One: Just because you wear AA doesn't mean that you have to look like an asshole.

Jersey (the fabric, not the state) is nice for winter. It's breathable and easy to layer, it comes in many colors, and you can easily wear long underwear with it (yay for stretch!). Unfortunately, one of the largest suppliers of this miracle fabric is American Apparel. Here, I demonstrate (ideally) that just because you buy an item or two at AA, you don't have to look like one of Dov Charney's personal prostitutes.

dress: aa
leggings: aa
jacket: target
boots: frye
necklace: thrift
pose: icecapades

Lesson Two: Embrace the fat layer winter gave you.
We all grow a couple extra chins during the cold months. Instead of being an annoying whiner who complains to everyone with ears, saying "God, I have to go to the gym. I'm so fat!" why don't you just embrace the extra? Look at the added pounds as a reason to love yourself more (now that there's more of you to love!). But even though you might look like you're stuffing a few acorns in your cheeks doesn't mean you have to dress like it. Find shapes that compliment your body type!

tee: thrifted
vest: anthro
skirt: old navy
leggings: target

Lesson Three: Layer with different textures
One way to add flair to a weighted down wardrobe is to wear different textures. It's even better if you wear various silhouettes from different eras and sexes (winter is perfect for a little androgyny), always keeping in mind the age-old mantra that less is more

blouse: old navy (i know, right?!)
vest: vintage
jeans: joe's
loafers: thrift
tam: marc by marc jacobs (only 17 dollars, yall)
necklace:vintage

Lesson Four: Be a weirdo.
Having to wear a coat often makes one question the point of looking nice. Why dress up when you'll be covered by a bulky coat? Think of a bulky coat as an opportunity--to be weird. Under the cover of a coat, you can wear things you would never consider in summer. Look at this as an opportunity to experiment: with menswear, bright colors and funky pleated pants.

purple sweater: limited via marshall's
mustard blouse: bcbg
pin: vintage
pants: thrifted

Lesson Five: K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid).
There are enough things about winter to make us uncomfortable. Why add you wardrobe to that list? Wear longer shirts (preferably in a color that compliments pale skin) so that they don't ride up and make your back cold. It's also nice to do this in a breathable fabric because, believe it or not, you can sweat in the winter. Adding a simple pair of straight-legged pants and a nice pair of boots (f.y.i., Fryes have NO traction on ice) makes for a comfortable, yet polished look.

shirt: target
jeans: levi's
vest: thrift
boots: frye
earrings: uo
pose: sexytown

Lesson Six: Be soft (and warm!)
Sometimes winter is beautiful, right? Like when the snow falls in bits instead of blizzards and the branches have white coats. I'm trying to write this with a straight face but then I look at the photo below. Maddie described it as: "You look like you're in Narnia! Not that that's a bad thing." Well anyway, I feel soft, draped in boiled wool and muted colors. So try it out, bitches, and get off my lumps.

sweater: anthro
blouse: anthro
skirt: anthro
guess who shops too much at anthro: me

The bell doesn't dismiss you! WE DO! Alright... Go ahead.

Individual Fur Pattern: Yesterday

2009-01-17T18:22:00.004-06:00

Hey Flog Readers!

Yesterday I met up with Maddie and we went shopping on Ye Olde Near East Side aka Her Side of Town. We haven't seen each other since school let out, so it was a pleasant reunion, albeit a cold one. We had had plans to do a photo shoot, but the negative temperatures pushed us into thrift stores instead. Here's what I wore underneath my coat, which I never took off:

Shirt: Anthropologie (I just got it, isn't it cute? It has pinstripes)
Belt: thrifted
Black skinny pants: UO
Boots: Nine West

Ever since I got my hair cut really short again I've been feeling a bit man-ish. But that's ok because lately I like to dress like a man. In fact, I'm bidding on a few pairs of beat up men's levis on Ebay. Also, I like to be smelly and greasy and walk into nice stores. I can't explain.

Maddie and I have a photo shoot planned for Monday, so be on the lookout!

Today's Individual Fur Pattern (aka outfit post)

2009-01-04T18:39:00.004-06:00

If I could pick an outfit that described my personality, this would be it. The sweater is 100% cashmere (a Christmas gift) and has pockets! Most of the time you see cashmere presented in a very traditional way, so when I saw the bizarre shape of it, combined with the total luxury of cashmere, I knew it had to be mine. That's what I like: ugly comfort. You could say this sweater is totally unflattering on me--I'm too short to wearing something so long--and I might even agree with you. I kind of look pregnant. But that's what I like about this outfit: it doesn't really give a shit about that. Plus the stone-washed jeans which are the throwback I like to include in every outfit, and my boots which rarely leave my feet. Oh, outfit, how you complete me.

Necklace: Zoe Chicco
Cashmere sweater: Velvet from Anthro
Gray stone-washed jeans: Cheap Monday
Boots: Nine West

One is silver and the other gold

2008-12-29T22:27:00.003-06:00

Question: How do you feel about wearing silver and gold jewelry at the same time?

I honestly want to know. Please respond with your opinions in the comment section.

When I was younger I thought there could be no greater violation than to mix metals: if your necklace was gold, the rest of your jewelry had to be gold, too. As I've gotten older I've loosened up my strict-as-a-straight-laced-biddy fashion rules, but I've still believed that mixing metals is a no-no.

You know that terrible movie "Made of Honor"? Well the main girl in that movie wears the same necklace in most scenes: it's just a simple small necklace with two circles that are entwined. I found the necklace online (it's made by Los Angeles jewelry designer Zoe Chicco) because it cast a spell over me and I put it on my Christmas list. My dad graciously gave it to me and I've worn it every day since.

Except...

The necklace is gold. I have two rings that I wear at all times. They are silver. To be able to wear both my rings and the necklace, I need to reconcile my belief that metals can be mixed. Can you tell I've spent a lot of time thinking about this?

Please advise.

30-Degrees, Batman!

2008-12-24T12:30:00.007-06:00

dress: portobello road market, london
leggings: aa
boots: frye

Today is a little bit warmer than it's been, so I felt obligated to run a comb through my hair and slap on something decent. I'm pretty sure that all I'm doing today is going to my mom's house to watch some Lee Pace movies, so this awesome little dress won't get much exposure around the public. I bought it about two years ago when my friend Elly and I did the "grand tour" around Europe. We ended the trip in London with practically empty pockets, which is very sad because that city ain't cheap! When I found this little number, I had to throw concern for finances to the wind. I pay for it every time someone asks me where I bought it. I feel like such a pretentious a-hole when I answer back "London, dahling!"

On a side note, here is the view from my window:

Happy Holidays, y'all!

Holy Holidays!

2008-12-22T14:02:00.004-06:00

Sorry for the hiatus, everybody. Like I've said, finals week kept both Rachel and I pretty busy and I'd be lying if I said that I had been typing away at papers wearing high heels and a cute vintage sweater. Truth is that I've spent most of the past week in pajamas, hunched over my desk while I worked on this! Good news is that my holiday party for work is tonight and that means that I'm going to get gussied up.

dress: banana republic
tights: gap
riding boots: hand-me-downs
doppleganger: vampire maddie

I've shown this dress before, but tonight it will actually be appropriate! Well, maybe not. It's likely that I will be the most dressed up girl at the party, but that's okay by me.

A funny thing about the boots is that I've had them since I was about nine and a friend of the family gave them to me for dress-up. I even wore them at my fourth grade Star Wars themed birthday party when I dressed up as Luke Skywalker (I was too young to know that Hans Solo is totally more badass). They are currently about a shoe size too small, but what are you gonna do when there's a few feet of snow on the ground and the day's high is 3 degrees fahrenheit (yeesh)?

Notorious

2008-12-12T00:01:00.004-06:00

Pin-up icon Bettie Page has passed away.

Despite a lack of clothes, she was (and is) quite the style icon.

Bettie, tonight we raise our glasses to you! Thanks for making curvy so damn sexy.

Handmade Pledge

2008-12-07T11:59:00.002-06:00

Sorry that we've been a wee bit bad at posting these last few days. It's the end of the semester and, I won't speak for Rachel, but I'm up to my ears with Paradise Lost term papers, creative writing revisions, scansions, and more. Come next week, I'll be sure to whip out some outfit posts!

Have you heard of the Handmade Pledge?

Are any of you doing it this year? I'm sorely tempted, but it sort of throws a monkey wrench in some of my holiday plans. Can I half take the pledge? Or maybe I could start my own more self-centered version called the "Handmade (when convenient) Pledge."

Thoughts?

Individual Fur Pattern: Literal Edition

2008-12-02T15:10:00.003-06:00

When the winters are as long, gray and generally soul-crushing as Wisconsin winters, you have to find glimmers of humor where you can. This hat, I believe, does the trick. I got it on a rural Wisconsin thrifting jaunt with Maddie this summer. A rare find, it was waiting for me in the basement of Halle's Closet, an amazing vintage store in Mazomanie. Guess what else. It had a twin! There were two of these magnificent beasts in that Mazomanie basement. Naturally, I showed the prize to Maddie, who didn't feel the need to be my hat-twin. C'est la vie: she gave me the privilege of bringing this miracle of head wear to the masses.

Every time I wear this hat I get multiple smiles and comments from complete strangers; the kind that make your day a little lighter. Also, when you want to take a nap in class this hat makes the perfect pillow. And it's warm as hell.

Fashion in Action: Las Vegas Addition

2008-11-29T19:51:00.003-06:00

I was in Las Vegas over Thanksgiving to visit some family and it rained for only the second time that year. Here's what I wore to get a cup of coffee and a croissant at the Bouchon Bakery and have my picture taken in fake Venice:

beret: local hat store
scarf: vintage
blazer: vintage one that I always wear
sweater: uo
black jeans (?!): gap
bag: uo
backdrop: The Venetian

And no, I did not win big.

Today's Individual Fur Pattern--Now With More Pleating!

2008-11-25T15:44:00.003-06:00

hat: marshall's
scarf: gift from London
jacket: thrifted
white undershirt: H&M
belt: thrifted
pants: thrifted
green suede shoes: target
necklace: anthropologie

Good thing Maddie's in Las Vegas or she might start divorce proceedings on account of these pants. High-waisted and pleated, boys and girls. I don't know what's come over me, I just want to look as 80s as possible! Yesterday I bought acid wash jeans! What is this obsession? Logan saw me today and asked, "What decade is this?" haha.

Anyway, I think I look cute and that's all that matters. I went to Goodwill last night and found a blouse, the pants and jacket seen here and some shoes--success! I'm so excited about the jacket, I've been looking for a perfectly fitted wool blazer/jacket for a long long time. I was hoping for gray wool, but this is like a reddish brown color that I've never seen before. It'll be fun.

Carpet does not match drapes...

2008-11-24T19:44:00.002-06:00

Just back from getting my hair did!

I decided to get a warmer richer color for winter. That way, my hair won't run into my face a la Daniel Craig. The bangs are a little jarring for me, but maybe that's just because I no longer look like Cousin It.

What do y'all think?

Girlfriend needs a haircut

2008-11-22T14:47:00.005-06:00

I just gotta make it until Monday without shaving my head in a fit of rage and frustration.

Dear Dream Closet,

2008-11-21T15:41:00.002-06:00

I know that we shall meet, but when?

November Just Kicked Us In the Nuts

2008-11-20T13:37:00.003-06:00

scarf: clothing exchange
bird pin: vintage
blazer: vintage
belt: vintage
sweater: uo
dress: vintage
tights: gap
booties: seychelles

hat (which Maddie says is called a 'tam'): Marshall's
sweater: Anthropologie
white blouse: H&M
belt: thrifted
skirt: Anthropologie
tights: Wet Seal (ew)
boots: Nine West from Marshall's

Details:

Today's Individual Fur Pattern (aka outfit post)

2008-11-18T23:14:00.004-06:00

blue corduroy jacket: idra at Anthropologie
tan sweater cardi: vintage
scarf: jcrew
tshirt: Locksley band tee
skirt: idra at Anthro
Lighter gray leggings: Target
Gray wool knee socks: Marshall's
Boots: Nine West, from Marshall's.

I cut off my head because I looked straight up wonky. Plus, I'm not very good at photographing myself full-length. Portraits? Got that down, but full body? I can't seem to find a very flattering angle...maybe that's a sign.

Another Sunday post

2008-11-16T14:19:00.007-06:00

Like Rachel, Sunday brunch is one of the things that make me most happy. Sundays in general make me happy. It's the one day of the week that I have entirely to myself. Today, I celebrated my weekend with my roommates by making a trip to the nearby bistro for a croque-madame and a glass of fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice. So pleased was I with the prospect that I even managed scrounge up an outfit despite the 30-degree weather.

cashmere sweater: vintage
dress: vintage
belt: vintage
tights: gap
shoes: etienne aigner
pot belly: ham, gruyere, egg

I found the dress at a garage sale this summer in the heat of my Mad Men obsession (the heat hasn't cooled, in case you were wondering). Since I can't wear it to work at Sterling Cooper, Sunday brunch will have to do.

Since this site has been a little deprived of "what I wore" pictures lately, here's the number that I wore yesterday:

striped shirt that makes my boobs look huge: h&m
pencil skirt: tj maxx
tights: hue
flats: dkny
hindquarters of a german shepherd: fergus

Monday, it's back to looking like crap. Why can't everyday be Sunday?

P.S. While taking the picture of this Sunday outfit, my tripod fell over and the lens of the camera that I was using (my dad's camera) broke. Do you see the cost of this blog? Do you see what I'll do for you people?

I like big shoes and I cannot lie

2008-11-16T10:58:00.002-06:00

Oh, my dear employer, why must you have such beautiful footwear? Footwear that makes me cry out, "Oh, beautiful footwear! Why aren't you on my feet?"

The Best Fashion Is Happiness

2008-11-13T13:25:00.003-06:00

It's hard to look good when you feel un-good. I think a happy mood is the biggest&best fashion inspiration.

There's this blog I've been reading for quite some time: it's called YOU ARE REMARKABLE. If you ever need an instant heart-lift, go there.

Today's post from YOU ARE REMARKABLE:

it’s okay, it’s okay it’s okay. there is nothing to be nervous about, there is nothing to be afraid of. your heart may feel empty & you may feel like you’re drifting alone in the middle of a stormy sea but listen. please just listen. you are loved by so many people. i think that if you knew the actual number your heart might just explode!!! you are loved by some many people & some of them you’ve never officially met!! yes, you may have smiled at them or nodded your head but when you did you entered their heart in such a way that they won’t forget you for years & years!!! that person you waited in line next to yesterday, they loved you. that person you sat in traffic with yesterday, they loved you too. when you’re feeling lost, alone, anxious, scared remember that someone somewhere is feeling that way too. you’re not alone. you’re never ever alone. & you’re never ever without love. listen to me…

So, in place of showing you what I'm wearing today (but believe me, I look cute), here's a list of things that make me happy, and inspire me to dress up:

1. sleeping in
2. a weekend without going to work
3. good tea
4. paper
5. brunch plans

What are five things that make you happy?

Maybe I'll get lucky and freeze to death before it really gets bad

2008-11-12T20:27:00.009-06:00

I'm a fashion fraud. Here I come, all hoity-toity, telling you that I have fashion cred and can tell you how to dress. And then what? The weather drops below forty degrees and I'm all about leggings and converse. Didn't I claim to own a sea of vintage dresses that I was just longing to show off? Well, my 1940's sundress doesn't mean a damn thing when its chilly and rainy outside. I don't think that I used to give up so easily. I'm pretty sure that last year I hung in there at least until mid-December. It's probably that last year's winter kicked the emotional crap out of me and seeing this one coming just makes me want to die in a sea of down coats.

I've spent the last hour scouring the internets for inspiration. Something, anything that will act as a beacon of light and help me get through the week (I'm not even asking for the whole season). First, I turned to film. The problem with most movies set in winter is that they seem too unrealistic. I think to myself, "They live in upstate New York? They don't even zip up their coats all of the way! Humbug!" Over the summer, I watched the now-defunct series Wonderfalls and couldn't get over a scene in which Lee Pace wears a hat that doesn't cover his ears. The show took place in Niagara and in the dead of winter. I mean, really! That one little flaw almost ruined the show for me.

So with movies out of the way, I've begun focusing on real people. One person who I found particularly helpful was everyone's favorite fashion Finn, Piksi.

(please note that this collection of images was taken without permission from Art of the Steal. if the author would like it taken down, let me know and it will be taken off quicker than you can say "copyright laws")

I'm hoping that I can dig up more people on my search because, believe it or not, I think Wisconsin gets even colder than Finland in the winter and the ice alone will prevent me from galavanting about in heels. And anybody who suggest wearing skirts and tights when it's -10 degrees outside should have their brain checked.

Maybe what I need is a brightly colored coat to combat the atmospheric gray. I even have one in mind:

What's that you say? It's $498.00? Okay then. I'll pray that I can track down a thrifty alternative.

Wanna help save a budding fashion blogger? Tell me where you get your winter fashion inspiration! Movies! Magazines! Websites full of boots and coats! Flickr links! Anything!

Ye olde shoe lust

2008-11-10T09:00:00.002-06:00

At the wedding on Saturday, I saw a fellow guest wearing the most amazing shoes.

I probably would have knocked her over to see what brand they were if she hadn't so nicely told me that they were Seychelles. This was even better news because Seychelles is one of the few companies that makes high heels that I can pull off walking in (I'm absolutely challenged when it comes to walking in anything other than orthopedic grandma shoes). But wait! The news gets better still! Back at home and in front of my computer, I've found them on sale at shoelust!

There a little founding fathers, I know. Still, I can't wait for them to arrive so that I can pair them with mustard colored tights and a vintage dress.

*For the wedding, I wore 1b. Thanks for all of the great feedback. For a less fashion-based retelling of the nuptials, please visit my other blog, The Astounding Adventures of the Pop Quiz Kid.

Goin' to the chapel

2008-11-06T10:12:00.007-06:00

I recently read an article about how women are now looking at their weddings like their one chance to walk the red carpet like a celebrity. While I hope that they also look at it as a symbol of their love with their partners and a chance to celebrate that love with their friends and family, I can sort of understand it. I love weddings and one of the main reasons that I love them is because I get to get dressed up and hang out with men wearing suits and ladies in high heels. I haven’t been invited to enough weddings for them to become tiresome, so every time that I’m invited to one I’m thrown into an absolute fit in which outfits are thrown around my room willy-nilly, leaving mountains of dresses, slips, and shoes that are hard to walk in.

This upcoming weekend, I’ll be attending a friend’s wedding all the way in Indiana. Having gone through the usual routine of late night modeling in front of my mirror and still feeling unsure about what I’ll wear, I’ve decided to tap into a new resource: you fine people.

So here are the choices. Let me hear your votes!

1.

Okay? It gets more complicated still as I will probably need a sweater for the ceremony.

1a.

1b.

2.

(looking at these pictures, I realize that I should have maybe worn a slip underneath)

I know that there's the whole "you shouldn't wear white to a wedding" thing, but the dress does have a pattern on it. Does that still make it inappropriate?

3. This isn't really a choice because I KNOW that this one is inappropriate for a wedding, but it's so fun that I thought that I would post it anyway.

Thanks!

I got the red, white, and blues (and that's a good thing)

2008-11-05T19:30:00.003-06:00

All my life, I've avoided wearing red, white, and blue together like it was a disease, but something's got me feeling intensely patriotic today. What could it be?

top: marshall's
skirt: anthropologie
heels: seychelles
button: OBAMA!

And here's a hard wink for you, Ms. Palin:

(a horrible face for more horrible woman)

Inspiration: Ashley Watson

2008-11-04T14:28:00.003-06:00

Recently I discovered Ashley Watson, a designer out of Vancouver who makes bags with recycled leather. Her online gallery is an orgasm for everyone who loves big bags, searches high and low for the perfectly worn-in leather, and is eco-conscious.

My favorites:

(all images from ashleywatson.net)

Atticus, a locally owned eco-friendly boutique in downtown Madison, is listed as the only vendor carrying Ashley Watson in Wisconsin, so I stopped by. The owner was there and mentioned she'll be getting a shipment in at the end of November, and another one in late February. She said she'd email me when they came in so I could run up and see them. The question is: I know I'll immediately fall in love, but can I afford it? The bigger bags are upwards of $350, and while that's no Louis Vuitton (ew), should I still spend that much on a bag?

Eat your heart out, November

2008-11-03T17:15:00.003-06:00

Today's high was 70 degrees. This isn't exactly normal for November in the Wisco. To celebrate this effect of global warming, we headed down the student union's docks to flaunt our non-bundled glory.

shirt: anthropologie
belt: ralph lauren, thrifted
pants: gap
flats: dkny
bag: uo

dress: forever21
plaid shirt: old navy
tights: hue
shoes: target

And a friendly reminder to get out and VOTE tomorrow:

titties for Obama

sunday brunch

2008-11-03T10:33:00.004-06:00

I'm going to make helmets the fashion must-have this spring. Not for safety reasons, but because I want to wear a helmet all the time. Just think: we'd die much less in walking accidents and people with epilepsy would feel less embarrassed. Helmets for all.

This post is not about helmets.

Brunch outfits!

What my boyfriend wore (thankfully he doesn't read this blog or he'd kill me for posting this):

Button down: some rando shirt he always wears that seems to be made out of thin plastic. It has pinstripes and two staples on the collar that he refuses to remove.
Vest: Target
Pants: stanky ass Levis
Shoes: Converse

What I wore:

Bag: UO
Sweater: Some rando mall store
Button Down: Old Navy
Pants: Old lady section at TJ Maxx
Tights: Hue
Shiny jazz shoes: Marshalls
Headband: Anthropologie

Those pants me look stumpy as shit in this photo; I don't think I looked that short and bottom heavy in person. Regardless, I've been having anxieties that I look like a man, so I decided to embrace it and look like a man-golfer.

Boy, oh, Boy!

2008-11-02T19:20:00.006-06:00

I’m a big fan of academic chic. On most days you can find me in blazers, cardigans, pencil skirts, plaid, or argyle. I’m all about sweater vests and oxfords. Tweed? Yes, please. This is why I was so excited to discover Boy by Band of Outsiders. The label is all about working your inner geek with an edge. Plus, they pick some pretty awesome models. Here are some of my favorite looks:

On Michelle Williams

On Kirsten Dunst

On Nicole Cari

Looking at these pictures, I'm overcome with a need to own a bandage skirt, a pantsuit (or a shortsuit), and a trench.

Pencils down.

This is who we are, Ethel Merman

2008-10-30T12:02:00.015-05:00

Welcome to Lake City Lake. We formed this blog because our hometown, Madison, Wisconsin, is entirely unrepresented in the internet fashion community. To be honest, that's probably for a reason: dressing up here means putting on pants with a zipper. Flip-flops are considered proper wedding guest attire. Madison is notorious for its lax dress code and frankly, we're tired of being asked why we're "dressed up" today. It's time to represent and prove that not all of fashion in Madison is snowsuits and mom-pants.

Lake City Lake is a term coined for our great city, the only city built on an isthmus.

Let the flogging begin (flog: fashion blogging).

bolero: vintage
dress: tailored, vintage
tights: target
boots: timberland
headband: anthropologie

Rachel!

I grew up wearing hand-me-downs from my cousins who lived in Northern Wisconsin. There were a lot of embarrassing sweatpants involved. Today, sweatpants are still involved but now they're awesome, not cringe-worthy. You see, half the time I look like shit and half the time I look awesome. And I really don't give a crap. My closet bursts with vintage cocktail frocks, blouses and wigs but sometimes I just feel like wearing a tshirt and some m-f'ing jeans. That last sentence makes Maddie want to puke; I usually try to reserve my cute days for when I see her.

The other thing is bizarre comfort. Well, comfort most definitely, but a lot of times it's bizarre. I like huge knit sweaters that go past my knees and look like they're for an overweight clown from the 70s. In the winter, I never take off a series of knit hats. This season I added one to my collection that makes me look like a polar bear.

My thing is just to wear whatever the ass you want as long as it's interesting. Being a fashionable person doesn't mean looking like you were just photographed by the Sartorialist every day; it means trying different things and finding what works for you.

1950's wool blazer: vintage
black button-down: express
skirt: ok47
tights: don't know
loafers: thrift

Maddie!

My hobbies include talking like Katherine Hepburn, talking like T.S. Eliot, and talking like Mae West. I should probably tell you that those are all the exact same voice. When I’m not talking like this, I like to dress up. Like my repertoire of voices, most of my style inspiration comes from the past and I have a collection of vintage dresses that can never be big enough.

I don’t like to be pigeonholed when it comes to fashion. I try to dress however I feel that day. This is the reason that I don’t own any comfort clothes—the majority of days I feel pretty damn lazy and keeping a closet full of sweatshirts and leggings would just be too tempting. Instead I find myself waking up and thinking, “today I want to look like Jean Seberg in Breathless” or “can I work a Depression era cloche with 1960’s cigarette pants?”

Contrary to what Rachel may think, I do not hate jeans and t-shirts. I just hate jeans and t-shirts on me. To this day, I’ve only been able to find one pair of jeans that look good on my very pear-shaped body. I have what them hip hop rappers call the “apple booty.” And I’ve just compared myself with two separate pieces of fruit. Anyways, I’m super jealous of girls who look cute in pants.

For me, the most important thing in fashion is to just have fun with it and never take it too seriously. Dressing up should be enjoyable and is a fantastic opportunity for self-expression and creativity. That being said, let me wow you. You just got Maddied.

P.S. If you like us, please consider adding us to your blog roll! Thanks!