The Girl in the Dress

"Affordable Wedding Day Accessories"

2010-02-18T16:30:00.006-05:00

http://bridepop.com/fashion/affordable-wedding-day-accessories/

A Sweet Treat

2010-02-12T09:29:00.004-05:00

I spent the blizzard indoors keeping warm at Cafe Orlin. After downing Pomegranate Sparkle after Pomegranate Sparkle, the bartender decided to make me the loveliest cappuccino ever.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2010-02-08T15:27:00.014-05:00

Monday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Ann Taylor

Headband: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit:

Dress: I Trulli

Cardigan: H&M

Necklace: Banana Republic

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Wednesday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Necklace: Banana Republic

Watch: Michael Kors

Headband: Forever 21

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Diane Von Furstenberg

Necklace: Banana Republic

Ring: Boutique in LES

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Friday's Outfit:
Dress: Maude

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Necklace: Forever 21

Mary Janes: Delias

New Post on BridePOP

2010-01-26T11:57:00.006-05:00

Check out my new post on BridePOP.com - "20 Comfortable Alternatives to Heels"

http://bridepop.com/fashion/20-comfortable-alternatives-to-heels/

Last Week's Wardrobe

2010-01-25T10:21:00.010-05:00

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Monday's Outfit
Dress: Nordstrom

Cardigan: JCrew

Accessories: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit
Dress: Anthropologie
Sweater: Ann Taylor

Necklace: Banana Republic

Headband w/ Pin: Vintage

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Bloomingdale's

Cardigan: Leifsdottir

Belt: Anthropologie

Necklace & Pin: Vintage

Ring: Forever 21

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Friday's Outfit
Blouse: Anthropologie
Cardigan: Nordstrom
Skirt: Banana Republic
Headband: Forever 21

Last Week's Wardrobe

2010-01-18T14:44:00.010-05:00

Monday's Outfit:
Dress: Nanette Lepore

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Headband: Kohl's

Tuesday's Outfit:
Dress: Banana Republic
Cardigan: Ann Taylor

Headband w/ Vintage Pin

Wednesday's Outfit:
Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: JCrew

Bracelet & Necklace: Forever 21

Headband: Kohl's

Thursday's Outfit:
Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: H&M

Friday's Outfit:
Dress & Belt: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Fashion Forward Knitwear

2010-01-13T10:41:00.008-05:00

A man knitting his matching cape in a full-on outfit made of yarn. Honestly, I can't say I am that surprised...a lot of crazy stuff happens on the subway. But I'm more surprised by the choice of fabric...talk about delicate. One snag and the whole outfit is will unravel.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2010-01-11T10:10:00.021-05:00

Monday's Outfit

Dress: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: JCrew

Necklace: Anthropologie

Headband: Kohl's

Accessories: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit

Shirt: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: NY&Co.

Skirt: Banana Republic

Headband: Kohl's

Accessories: Forever 21

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Wednesday's Outfit
Dress: Nanette Lepore
Cardigan & Headband: Kohl's
Ring: Boutique in New Orleans
Necklace: Gift from Friend
Tights: Hue

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Nanette Lepore

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Headband: NY&Co.

Necklace: Gift from Friend

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Friday's Outfit:

Dress: BCBG

Cardigan: H&M

Tights & Necklace: Forever 21

BridePOP has launched!

2010-01-05T11:38:00.006-05:00

I am super excited to annouce BridePOP has finally launched. It's a one-of-a-kind wedding blog for brides offering unique ideas for all things wedding.

Check out my column "Something Blue" at http://bridepop.com/

Thanks for all your support!

7-Eleven's Green-Friendly Initiative

2010-01-05T09:57:00.005-05:00

Have you ever walked in to a 7-Eleven to get a fountain soda and seen the array of cup sizes? You have the Gulp holding .7 liters of soda, the Big Gulp (1 liter), the Super Gulp (1.2 liters) and the almighty Double Gulp containing an ever-impressive 2 liters of liquid. I always wondered who would ever voluntarily consume 64 ounces of soda. Is it even humanly possible?

Apparently, not many people are drinking Double Gulps these days so 7-Eleven has found another way to use their surplus of Double Gulp cups...

Ladies and Gentlemen, let me present to the Double Gulp Toilet Brush Holder.

My Parents' Alpacas

2009-12-30T09:23:00.002-05:00

T. - I thought you'd like to see the boys. Enjoy.

Christmas Vacation

2009-12-29T15:52:00.004-05:00

Unlike Clark Griswold, most of my Christmas vacation was spent lounging around in comfy clothes watching Christmas classics. While my vacation does share some similarities with the Griswold Family Christmas like drinking the occasional glass of egg nog and admiring Cousin Eddie's forest green dickey, I did not spend my time stapling 250 strands of lights to the house. Instead, my manual labor consisted of helping my parents with the alpaca herd health and building my second-ever headband stand.

For those who are curious...no, I did not wear a dress while doing manual labor. I wore black yoga pants, my Dad's huge rubber boots and a big fluffy jacket.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-12-21T09:48:00.012-05:00

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Monday's Outfit

Top & Necklace: Banana Republic

Skirt: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Tights: Hue

Ring & Bracelet: Forever 21

Pin on Headband: Vintage

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Tuesday's Outfit

Dress: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: H&M
Belt: Banana Republic

Ring & Necklace: Forever 21

Pin & Earrings: Vintage

Watch: Michael Kors

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Wednesday's Outfit

Dress: BCBG

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Necklace: Banana Republic

Ring, Pin & Bracelet: Forever 21

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Banana Republic

Top: Ann Taylor

Earrings & Pin: Vintage

Ring: Forever 21

Watch: Michael Kors

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Friday's Outfit:
Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Belt: Banana Republic

Tights: Hue

Pin: Vintage

Ring: Forever 21

"Phyllis Croaked Years Ago!"

2009-12-15T10:10:00.003-05:00

On my way home yesterday, I sat next to an old woman with teased big red hair and bright coral lipstick. At the next stop, another older woman got on the train. The woman next to me recognized her and called out "Celia! Celia!" to get the woman's attention. Celia recognized Big Red and sat down next to her. They started chatting about the weather, arthritis and Brooklyn. A few minutes passed by and Celia got up to get off at the next stop. As she made her way to the doors, she yelled to Big Red "Tell Phyllis I said hello." Big Red yells back at Celia as she stepped off the train, "Phyllis croaked years ago!"

Poor Phyllis.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-12-14T10:16:00.012-05:00

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Monday's Outfit

Dress: Banana Republic

Cardigan: J Crew

Necklace: Anthropologie

Belt & Other Accessories: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit

Dress: Leifsdottir

Blazer: H&M

Accessories: Banana Republic

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Thursday's Outfit
Dress: Nordstrom
Cardigan: Delia's
Hairpin: Banana Republic

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Friday's Outfit
Dress: H&M
Cardigan: Banana Republic
Belt: Burberry
Pearls & Ring: Hand-Me-Downs

Fashionable & Fiscally Responsible

2009-12-08T13:42:00.013-05:00

Accessories are great ways to put your own stamp on today's trends. I love keeping up with the ever-changing trends, but it's tough to be fashionable without breaking the bank. Here are some comparable accessories from Forever 21 and Anthropologie.

Can you spot the fashionable AND fiscally responsible accessories?

Row 1: Anthropologie - $138 / Forever 21 - $15.80

Row 2: Anthropologie - $288 / Forever 21 - $8.80

Row 3: Forever 21 - $8.80 / Anthropologie - $48.00

Row 4: Forever 21 - $12.80 / Anthropologie - $38.00

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-12-07T09:26:00.016-05:00

Monday's Outfit
Dress: Leifsdottir
Accessories: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit
Cardigan: Express
Shirt: Charles Tyrwitt
Skirt & Necklace: Banana Republic

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Wednesday's Outfit
*Unfortunately, Wednesday's dress is at the dry-cleaners trying to be revived.
Here's a picture from my office window from the Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Center.*

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Thursday's Outfit
Shirt, Skirt & Necklace: Banana Republic
Vest: H&M

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Friday's Outfit

Dress: Maude (Boutique in New Orleans)
Cardigan: Apt. 9

Necklace, Ring & Bracelet: Forever 21

Belt: Forever 21

I Heart Headbands

2009-12-01T10:00:00.027-05:00

Like my closet, my headband drawer is way too cramped. As a lover of headbands, I decided it was time to treat my headbands with a little more respect because the flowers and feathers adorning my headbands are losing their shape. So in an effort to revive my accessories, my Dad and I built a headband stand to help keep their shape, but to showcase them in a practical yet fashionable way.

Materials Used:
-2 Gatorade Powder Canisters (empty)
-Aluminum Foil Tape
-Plaster
-Styrofoam
-Spray Adhesive
-Faux Fur
-Ribbon
-Hot Glue Gun
-Rhinestones
-Mini Mirrors

1) Put plaster or anything to add weight in the bottom of one of the Gatorade Cans. This will prevent the stand from tipping over.

2) Using the styrofoam, cut out 2-1"circles (the same diameter of the inside of the canister) and place once styrofoam circle in each of the canisters about half way down. The styrofoam circles should fit snuggly inside and will help hold the shape of the canisters.

3) Align the open ends of the canisters and secure them using the aluminum foil tape.

4) Once the stand is secure, spray the adhesive and affix the ribbon and faux to the stand. I used faux fur for the main part because it added thickness to hold the headband.

5) Finally, use a hot glue gun to bedazzle your stand. I chose rhinestones and mini mirrors.

Christmas Time!!

2009-11-24T09:46:00.012-05:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year...the Christmas decorations are up and Dink's Christmas toys are out! I know Thanksgiving hasn't passed yet, but in preparation for my turkey-day-I-ate-too-much depression, nothing will make me feel better than coming home to Christmas decorations. Plus, my holiday cheer has been in check for 2 weeks now and I couldn't wait any longer. With Ray Coniff and Mitch Miller Christmas music on repeat, I decked my halls with sparkly, glittery, feathery, ornaments. If you haven't noticed yet, I like non-traditional ornaments with a lot of color and pizazz.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-11-23T09:38:00.019-05:00

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Monday's Outfit

Cardigan: H&M

Oxford: Tommy Hilfiger

Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Tory Burch

Accessories: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit

Cardigan: Ann Taylor

Shirt & Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Delia's

Accessories: Forever 21

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Wednesday's Outfit
Dress: Banana Republic

Necklace & Ring: Forever 21
Earrings & Pin: Vintage
Shoes: Delia's

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Thursday's Outfit
Cardigan: Leifsdottir
Skirt: Express
Necklace & Headband: Anthropologie
Earrings & Ring: Vintage
Shoes: Franco Sarto

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Friday's Outfit
Blouse: Urban Outfitters
Cardigan: Ann Taylor
Skirt: Banana Republic
Headband & Ring: Forever 21
Shoes: Delia's

It's that Time of the Year...

2009-11-19T11:02:00.033-05:00

I love the holiday season especially in New York. It’s a shopaholic’s sweetest dream or worst nightmare (if you’re in rehab). The store windows are decorated with shimmering wintery backdrops and all the clothing is drenched in sparkly rhinestones and lace appliqués. It’s the time of year when I listen to Mitch Miller and Ray Coniff’s Christmas CDs (on repeat) all day and start planning my New Year’s Eve ensemble. This year like every year, I am going to bejewel myself from head to toe with the season’s fashions.

In an effort to prepare you this holiday season, I’m doing a mini-series of this season’s fashions to inspire your holiday ensemble(s).

Here are some of my favorite dresses (for all budgets) this holiday season…

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1st Row from Left to Right: Nordstrom - $98.00, $148.00, $68.00
2nd Row : Nordstrom - $148.00, $158.00, $178.00

3rd Row : Nordstrom - $178.00, $198.00, $158.00

4th Row : Nordstrom - $68.00, $148.00, $70.00
5th Row : Nordstrom - $138.00,; Anthro - $188.00
6th Row : Anthro - $168.00, $288.00; Modcloth - $49.99

7th Row : Modcloth.com - $54.99, $59.99, $62.99
8th Row : Modcloth.com - $62.99, $67.99, $67.99

9th Row : Modcloth.com - $72.99, $82.99, $84.99

Keno is Lame!

2009-11-17T10:48:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a rough day. It seemed Murphy’s Law was in full effect and everything that could go wrong did going wrong.

I was rushing to work after a colossally hectic morning and like clockwork, there was a police incident on my train. I just love waiting for bozos to be arrested in the morning. After arriving at my station, I did some intense speed-walking to my office. I plowed through the revolving door and began searching for my building ID. It was nowhere to be found. Crap, I left that sucker at home.

After convincing the Security Guard I was not a terrorist, but an employee, I whipped through the turnstile like a kid at an amusement park and jumped in an empty elevator. I sighed with relief. As the door was closing, I saw a chubby hand surge through the gap. The elevator door opened. I hate it when that happens especially since my office is on one of the top floors. The man went over to the wall of buttons and pressed “15”. Then he pressed “18”. After pressing 2 floors, he leaned a little bit closer to get a good look and finally pressed “20”. Are you kidding me?!?! There’s no way this man just pressed 3 buttons.

This is not a game of Keno buddy.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-11-16T11:27:00.021-05:00

Monday's Outfit
Dress: Leifsdottir
Cardigan: J.Crew
Belt: Anthropologie
Headband & Ring: Forever 21
Shoes: Delias

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Wednesday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Anthropologie
Pin: Tiffany's

Headband & Ring: Forever 21

Shoes: Franco Sarto

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Thursday's Outfit

Blouse: H&M
Vest: Express

Skirt: Banana Republic

Headband: Forever 21

Shoes: Delias

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Friday's Outfit

Cardigan: J.Crew

Ruffle Shirt: Ann Taylor

Skirt: Forever 21

Headband & Ring: Forever 21

Shoes: Tory Burch

2009-11-11T09:59:00.010-05:00

I received a message from a friend asking...

“In viewing your outfits for the week I noticed you wear several super cute pumps. Living in the city and taking public transportation, do you walk to work in these shoes? Do you just suck it up? I KNOW you don’t go "Maid in Manhattan" style and wear the dreaded tennis shoes with socks. What’s your secret?"

Response: Old ladies around the world will tell you “Heels are bad for your back.” I can hear the lecture now “I remember the day I used to wear 4 inch heels, but not anymore. They destroyed my back and my arches have fallen.” I am sure this is true, and trust me, I don’t want a bad back, but I cannot live without heels. Without them, it would be like a world without colored tights, headbands or Gossip Girl...All in all, it would be a drab world.

However, in an effort to spare my back, I sport comfy stylish flats over heels when walking to work or running errands. Look, I love heels as much as the next girl, but I don’t love them enough to walk to work in heels. The truth is – I have nerves in my feet and my feet would be in pain by the time I got to work. Plus my chances of falling or tripping would undoubtedly increase ten-fold. I’ve taken some pretty nasty spills in my day thanks to heels. So I choose to sacrifice a little height for comfort, but never style. An FYI girls, not wearing heels doesn’t give you an excuse to wear heinous flats or tennis shoes. There are plenty of stylish flats out there that can dress up any outfit just like heels. With the trends always changing, I like to find affordable flats and change it up each season.

Here are some extremely affordable and stylish flats…

First & Second Rows: Leopard Flats - Forever 21 ($7.50)

Third Row: Silver Quilted -Forever 21 ($16.80) / Grey Suede - Delias ($49.50)

Fourth Row: Franco Sarto Leopard Flats w/ Buckle - Nordstrom ($59.90)

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-11-10T10:31:00.024-05:00

Monday's Outfit

Blouse: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: The Limited

Skirt: Banana Republic

Headband: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit
Sweater: Leifsdottir

Dress: Ann Taylor

Headband: Forever 21

Oxford Shoes: Delias

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Wednesday's Outfit

Dress: BCBG

Cardigan: Ann Taylor

Shoes: Tory Burch

Headband, Ring & Bracelet: Forever 21

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Caridgan: Nordstrom

Headband & Earrings: H&M

Shoes: Delias

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Friday's Outfit

Dress: Banana Repubic

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Shoes: Delias

Pin & Belt: Vintage

A Real Life "Curb Your Enthusiasm" Experience

2009-11-06T10:35:00.007-05:00

Curb Your Enthusiasm seems to be one of those shows that are always quoted or referred to in conversation. I've watched a few episodes this season and have been bitten by the Curb Bug. It’s painful to watch Larry make stupid mistakes and they come around and bite him in the butt. As a recent Curb Convert, I started the series from the beginning to find the situations are in fact real and can happen to anyone.

In one of the earlier episodes, Larry and his manager/friend Jeff are walking on the sidewalk and pass this homeless man begging for money. Larry, carrying a bag of leftovers, offers it to the homeless man. The homeless man asks Larry “What is it?” Larry, a little surprised at his question responds “Its tuna fish” and the homeless man says “No, thanks. I don’t like tuna fish.” Larry is taken aback at the homeless man’s response to free food. He’s begging for money to presumably eat and he’s asking what kind of food it is?!

The other night, I was on the subway playing Sudoku. In my train-car there was a homeless man sleeping on the bench. The train slowly approaches Union Square and a man walks passed me and dangles a plastic bag with leftovers over the homeless man’s head. He says to the homeless man, “Here, take this.” The homeless man groggily sits up and asks “What is it?” The man responds “Its meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Please take it.” The homeless man shook his head and said “No thanks, I’m a vegetarian.”

In my head, Curb Your Enthusiasm theme song started playing.

**Please note: The meatloaf featured in this blog is courtesy of Google Images. I did not make the meatloaf or mashed potatoes.

Note to Readers...

2009-11-06T09:58:00.003-05:00

Dear Readers,

This clarification seems silly as most of you know me well, but I want to set the record straight.

The long purple nails featured in "Candy Nails - Not So Sweet" are not my nails!! People PLEASE! The picture was taken from Google Images and inserted into this blog as a joke.

End of discussion.

Candy Nails - Not So Sweet

2009-11-04T09:56:00.004-05:00

In lieu of dressing up for Halloween, I watched The Shining for the first time. I must admit, I was a little freaked out watching this movie alone. After finishing the wildly popular psychological thriller, I decided to get some fresh air and for a manicure at Ann’s Nails. Normally, the glass door of the staircase leading to Ann’s Nails is propped open, but today it wasn’t. I opened the door and entered the stairwell. It was unusually dark. In fact, it was pitch black and there was hardly any light. But as a devout religious customer, I knew the stairs like the back of my hand and climbed the steps with caution. As I got to the top of the staircase, the door to the salon was propped open, but the place was empty. I mean…lights off, totally empty, chairs covered in a plastic tarp and the wall of color was GONE!!! CREEEEEPY…especially after watching the infamous scary movie about an empty hotel.

As I rushed down the dark stairs in fear of my life, I was wondering why I was so scared. Was I scared that I just left a dark abandoned salon on a Sunday afternoon? Or was I scared that Ann’s Nails was gone forever? But at least I was not going to be murdered by a crazy writer today and I could finally try the nail salon across the street without feeling guilty.

So I entered Candy Nails and climbed the well-lit staircase. I walked into Candy Nails and I was immediately directed to "pick a color".
I faced the wall of color and was severely disappointed. They didn’t have an extensive collection like Ann’s and the polishes weren’t separated by brand or in any order. All-in-all, it was a wall of chaos. My self-diagnosed ADD reared its ugly head and I chose a boring color that I would never normally pick out of frustration. I missed Ann's. I sat down at the available nail station and waited for a manicurist to free-up. While I was waiting, I checked the place out. The place looked a lot like Ann’s and the prices were the same. The only obvious difference was the ultimate collection of love songs playing on the flat screen. The playlist of songs during my manicure was “My Heart Will Go On”, “Take My Breath Away”, “Unchained Melody”. Did I mention there were words on the screen too? They had a karaoke dvd playing.

After waiting for 5 minutes and tearing up to “My Heart Will Go On”, this tiny little girl sat down on the other side of the station. She was wearing a nametag that said “Lyn”. Lyn started with the manicure. Man did she move fast. I quickly gave her the nickname – Lightening Lyn. She was the fastest in the city. In 15 minutes, my nails were manicured and ready to be painted. Here’s where Lyn would fail or soar in my book. Base coat…First coat…Second coat…Top coat…FAIL! Dang Lyn, haven’t you heard about staying in the lines?

This manicure was a poor excuse for a manicure. I missed Ann’s Nails, the home of the “Sex Color”. With a glimmer of hope, I called Ann’s on Monday. Maybe Sunday was a fluke and Ann needed a break. The phone rang and rang. I was about to give up all hope when I heard the sweetest words “Hello, Ann’s Nails.” A rush of excitement came over me. I asked Ann “what happened on Sunday?! You scared me.” She said the water was broken which explains the plastic tarp covering the chairs.

Thursday night, Ann’s Nails and I have a big night planned. I’m going to get me a kick-ass manicure and a 10 minute massage.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-11-02T11:16:00.020-05:00

Monday's Outfit:
Dress: Anthropologie

Cardigan: Brooks Brothers

Shoes: Franco Sarto

Headband & Ring: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit

Blouse: Anthropologie

Skirt: Banana Republic

Headband & Ring: Forever 21

Earrings: Unknown

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Wednesday's Outfit
Dress Shirt: Banana Republic

Cardigan: J Crew

Skirt: Banana Republic

Headband: Forever 21

Shoe: Tory Burch

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Thursday's Outfit

Cardigan: Leifsdottir

Ruffle Blouse: Ann Taylor

Lace Skirt: Anthropologie

Headband & Ring: Forever21

Earrings: Unknown

Cane & Able

2009-10-27T09:52:00.002-04:00

It was Monday evening, a little after 6pm, and I had just left work. I was about to cross the street and enter the subway when I passed a little old lady with a cane. She was slowly, but surely making her way across the street not paying any attention to anything, but making it before the light turned. After I passed her, I didn’t think anything more about it. I crossed the street, hung a left and made my way down the stairs of the subway. As I was walking down the stairs, I heard the sweet screeching of my train arriving. Like any New Yorker, I got excited when I heard my train coming. It’s like the proverbial “icing on the cake” after a long day. YESSSS, I would be home sooner than I thought.

So I picked up the pace, subway card in hand, and passed through the turnstile. I casually jumped on the train and moved to the side making room for any last minute riders. As I was watching the people rushing onto the train, I saw the little old lady with the cane pass through the turnstile like lightening. I thought...wow, she’s fast, but then again she’s had a lot of practice with subway cards over the years. She’s a pro. Before I knew it, I was watching Flo-Jo running to the train. The old lady was sprinting with her cane tucked under her arm. What happened in the last couple minutes? Did her joints miraculously heal? One minute she was feebly inching her way across the street...the next minute she was doing hurdles over turnstiles.

As she approached the doors, the door bell chimed signaling the doors would be closing. Little ol' Flo-Jo leaped onto the train (with the greatest of ease) with the doors closing right behind her. She had made it just in the nick of time. I looked around to see if anyone else had witnessed the little sprite other than me. Sure enough, another passenger had witnessed her magic and we both laughed. Shortly after, a young man offered the little old lady and her cane a seat.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-10-26T11:04:00.021-04:00

Monday's Outfit

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Shirt: Forever 21

Skirt: J Crew
Tights: Hue

Shoes: Forever 21
Headband with Vintage Pin

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Tuesday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Tights: Forever 21
Shoes: Franco Sarto

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Wednesday's Outfit

Dress: Ann Taylor

Cardigan: Leifsdottir
Belt: Anthropologie

Shoes: Franco Sarto

Headband & Ring: Forever 21

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Max & Cleo

Necklace: Forever 21

Headband with Vintage Pin

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Friday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Shoes: Delias

You Learn Something New Each Day

2009-10-23T10:30:00.008-04:00

In preparation for a wedding this weekend, I treated myself to “the works” – a manicure, pedicure and a 10 minute massage at Ann’s Nails. As always, it’s a tough decision picking out a polish with so many colors to choose from; let alone two colors for my manicure and pedicure. I quickly picked out the color for my toes as I tend to stick with shades of red. But the color for my nails was a much harder decision to make. The last few months, I’ve been experimenting with bright and dark colors. This time, I wanted to tone it down a bit so I was looking for the perfect light pink. As I scanned the wall of color, all the Essie pinks started to blend together. There were at least 30 shades of pink and they all looked so similar. I was looking for a pink that was not too sheer or too flat. So I chose “Spaghetti Strap”.

After the first coat of polish went on I knew it was going to be too sheer even after the second coat. Crap! This was the exact thing I was trying to avoid. I asked the manicurist to do 3 coats and she immediately asked “Too sheer?” She knew exactly why I wanted the third coat. So the manicurist walked to the wall of color and came back with a heavier more opaque light pink called “Guchi Muchi Puchi”. She said she would put this on top. With no reservations, I agreed to it and by the time she painted the first nail with the new pink, I was so happy with the turnout. It was exactly what I wanted. She told me about combining sheer colors with more opaque to strike the perfect balance of color.

After my relaxing massage and drying my nails for another 10 minutes, the manicurist came over to me to help me put my shoes on. Even though my toes should have been dry by then, she wasn’t going to take any chances. She whipped out a bottle of Essie Cuticle Oil and quickly painted my toes. She then placed a piece of saran wrap covering my toes and slipped my shoes on. The oil was to prevent the saran wrap from sticking and the saran wrap was going to prevent the polish from smudging in my shoes. When I got home and slipped my shoes off, my polish looked perfect. Another reason why I love Ann’s Nails.

See, you do learn something new each day.

Didn't Your Mother Ever Tell You....

2009-10-22T15:10:00.005-04:00

Just when I thought I didn't have anything to write about today, something embarrassing happened.

I was walking down Fifth Avenue enjoying the beautiful weather. I was about to make a right turn when a street cleaner stopped me and said "Congratulations". I immediately thought about the big fat crystal flower ring I was wearing on my left-hand ring finger. But then I quickly dismissed the idea because the ring is obviously fake. So I asked the guy "Congratulations for what?" He then said the worst thing every woman dreads hearing - "Oh I'm sorry. I thought you were pregnant."

Huh! What?! I couldn't believe that just happened. I was in a state of shock not to mention mortified. I stopped in front of a store window to check out my profile. Okay, I am wearing a dress with an empire waist, but I definitely don't look pregnant. What an ass! I've always heard these horror stories about other women, but never imagined it would happen to me or at least any time soon. After replaying the brief conversation, I wish I would have scolded him with a big fat "Didn't your mother ever tell you not to say that!?"

That comment was WAY below the belt (both figuratively and literally).

And the Winner is....

2009-10-21T09:51:00.011-04:00

Last night I answered the age-old question – Are the soup dumplings at Shanghai Café better than Joe Shanghai’s?

To help judge the soup dumplings, I brought my trusty companion Ashley. Ashley, a long-time Joe Shanghai-er, knows her soup dumplings. She’s a lover of all things soupy and spicy like me. So it’s only fair that I bring a judge as knowledgable as me to judge this ultimate showdown.

Shanghai Café sits on Mott Street sandwiched between Chinese restaurants. The street is very much like Pell Street (the home of Joe Shanghai’s) – there are endless Chinese fruit markets, foot/back rub places, and the curbs are lined with trash. Ah, welcome to Chinatown. As we walked into Shanghai Café, we were sat at a table immediately. Awesome, I thought. After I got situated in my chair, I took a good long look around. Shanghai Café looked like a cracked-out Johnny Rockets! There were neon squiggly lasers all over the sealing, booths that looked like they were ripped out from the wall at Outback Stackhouse, and to top it off…it was hotter than the dickens.

But I was not going to let the décor and temperature taint my judgment just yet. I opened the menu to find the soup dumplings were actually more expensive than Joe’s. At $4.95 per order, this was 30 cents more than Joe’s. I was surprised at the price because the online menu says they are $4.50 an order. Not that 45 cents is going to break the bank, but that was a huge leg-up Shanghai Café had on Joe Shanghai’s.

Anyway, after sitting at our table for a good 6 minutes, the server finally asked us for our order. No introduction like - “Hi, welcome to Shanghai Café. What kind of dumplings do you want?” She just asked us for our order. Not a good sign in my book. That means people actually dine at Shanghai Café for the food and not the soup dumplings. Don’t get me wrong, Joe’s food is delicious too. But for a supposed “soup dumpling rival”, you’d think they assume most people want some soup dumplings.

Scoreboard (Ambiance + Service)
Joe Shanghai’s = 2
Shanghai Café = 0

So Ash and I order ourselves a TsingTao beer, pork fried rice (that’s what Ash and I eat at Joe’s) and an order of pork soup dumplings. A few minutes later, our rice and dumplings arrived. Finally! Let the ultimate showdown begin.

I carefully placed a dumpling in my spoon, bit the nipple of the dumpling to open it up and loaded the dumpling with my favorite spices– ginger vinegar and spicy red chili sauce. After eating the nipple of dough, I immediately added another point to Joe’s scoreboard. Shanghai Café’s dough was much heavier. One could even say the dough was more durable, but durability is something I am willing to sacrifice considering I am a dumpling pro.

Scoreboard (Dumpling Dough)
Joe Shanghai’s = 1
Shanghai Café = 0

After pouring out the soup into my spoon, I slurped it up. Not bad. Not bad. But it’s still not as good as Joe’s soup. Then I gobbled up the remainder of the dumpling. Hot! Hot! Hot! The pork dumpling was still hot! In fact, way hotter than Joe’s. Point for Shanghai Cafe. And to top it off, the dumpling was scrumptious. After 2 orders of dumplings and some pork fried rice, Ashley and I were satiated…no wait, comatose-stuffed. Nothing promises a good night of sleep like some soup dumplings.

Scoreboard (Soup, Temp., Meat)

Joe Shanghai’s = 1 (Soup)
Shanghai Café = 2 (Temp & Meat)

Ashley and I paid our bill ($12 each) and talked about our meal. We both gave Shanghai Café a 7 out of 10. Joe Shanghai’s was and will always be a 10 in our book.

And the winner for the best soup dumpling is…Joe Shanghai’s!!!

Rump Shakin’ with Bert & Ernie

2009-10-20T09:27:00.006-04:00

Surprisingly, yesterday was fairly uneventful. Let’s see… I woke up, showered, went to work, finished work, walked to the Subway and saw the same homeless guy staring at the Au Bon Pain pastries through the glass window while licking his chops, caught a train home, worked out, watched Gossip Girl and Curb, then went to bed.

Yep, Monday was fairly uneventful considering I wore a purple tweed skirt and purple tights. I was convinced I’d get a California Raisins or Barney, the Purple Dinosaur comment, but apparently people decided to be nice yesterday. Just when I thought I’d have nothing to blog about today, I had an interesting and educational ride to work thanks to Bert & Ernie from Sesame Street.

Each morning, I strategically get in the last car on the train to grab a seat so I can read. Today was like any other morning; I got an end seat and was immersed in my book. After a few stops, the train got more crowded and before you know it, this guy was jamming out to "Bossy" by Kelis while his rump, covered by his black puffy coat, was steadily brushing the side of my head. I was getting annoyed because his coat was messin’ up my DO! Before I thought it couldn’t get any worse, he turned around to face me and revealed his ever-so-stylish “Bert & Ernie” t-shirt. We're not talking a cool vintage-style graphic tee. We’re talking Bert & Ernie in primary colors = Sesame Street galore. Seriously?! Bert & Ernie? At least go with something more modern like Pokémon or Power Rangers.

And please don’t rub your rump on me. It’s only 8:30am.

Last Week's Wardrobe

2009-10-19T09:19:00.027-04:00

My goal last week was to incorporate my recently inherited vintage items into my everyday wardrobe. Since I acquired a horde of vintage pins and love them so much, I decided to pin them on a headband. Enjoy!!

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Monday's Outfit

Silk Dress: Banana Republic

Shoes: Delias
Necklace & Pin: Vintage

Ring: Forever 21

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Tuesday's Outfit

Silk Dress: Nanette Lepore

Shoes: Nine West

Necklace & Earrings: Vintage
Feather Headband: Leila Rowe

(Vintage Emerald Pin added)

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Wednesday's Outfit

Blouse: Banana Republic

Skirt: Ann Taylor

Shoes: Delias

Necklace: Forever 21

Headband: Vintage Diamond Pin added

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Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Necklace: Forever 21
Headband: Added Vintage Pin

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Friday's Outfit

Sweater: JCrew

Shirt w/ Ruffles: Ann Taylor

Skirt: Ann Taylor

Headband: Orange Citrine Vintage Pin added

The Ultimate Showdown

2009-10-15T10:43:00.012-04:00

Most people challenge themselves by running a marathon or climbing Mt. Everest. Well, not this chica. I've never wanted to run a marathon or make it to base camp 1. My Challenge: I want to find the city's best soup dumpling. You might think I am crazy....But I think I am passionate.

The other night I was sitting on the couch, watching Gossip Girl with my roommates and heard the most absurd thing...I was told there's a BETTER soup dumpling place around the corner from Joe Shanghai's at this place called Shanghai Cafe! What!!! How could this be?! Is there really something better than Joe's and it's been under my nose this entire time? No way Jose!

Anyway, I went to Joe Shanghai's last night for my weekly fill of soup dumplings. As per usual, the TsingTao beer was refreshing, the potato scallion pancakes were greasy and the soup dumplings were steamy bites (and slurps) of deliciousness. As we paid our $11 per person bill and left my haven, I thought to myself - Erica, you should really branch out.

So the Girl in the Dress is on a mission...to see if Shanghai Cafe's soup dumplings are really better than Joe Shanghai's. What will be the outcome? I can't say for sure, but if the soup dumplings at Shanghai Cafe are as good as Joe's and the orange slices as juicy, I'll be the luckiest girl in the world. Until then, Joe Shanghai's is the ULTIMATE in soup dumplings.

To Be Continued...

Eavesdropping at Starbucks

2009-10-14T09:37:00.011-04:00

A friend recently told me she thought my blog was very entertaining because I find the humor in the simplest things. After thinking about my past blogs of Sex Color, Danger in the bathing suit store, and mannequin heads, I realized – she was right. And my experience at Starbuck’s on Saturday was a perfect example of finding the humor in the simple things.

After chowing down at CPK with my cousin, Aunt and sister, I was in dire need of a little pick-me-up to get through my day of shopping. I was so stuffed; I was teetering between a Thanksgiving-stuffed and possible comatose-stuffed stage. So we stopped at good old Starbucks’s for a cheap $7 coffee . While waiting in line and practicing our overly-complicated order of a tall skinny Vanilla Latte with an extra shot of espresso, tall skim Vanilla Chai Latte, and a tall Caramel Frappucino with an extra shot of espresso, I overheard an entertaining conversation between the man behind the Starbucks’s Counter and the customer in front of me.

The customer in front of me stepped up to the register and said to the Starbucks cashier “I am starving and want something sweet and tasty. Everything looks so good and I can't decide what to get. What would you recommend?” The Starbucks’s cashier walks over to the dessert case, carefully studied the dessert selection and after a few moments said with absolute conviction – “I’d definitely go with the Double Sticky Iced Cinnamon Roll...TRUST ME, I used to be fat.” The customer was convinced and ordered himself the Double Sticky Iced Cinnamon Roll. Bon Appetit.

I know it's wrong to eavesdrop, but I couldn't help myself. Think about all the hysterical comments I'd miss like that one. That comment was easily worth the $7 .

P.S. I will be posting my outfits for the week on Friday.

"A" is for Apple. "V" is for Vintage.

2009-10-13T09:56:00.019-04:00

In the words of Rachel Zoe – “I DIE!” I DIE for VINTAGE. No word in the English language sounds tastier than “vintage”.

Vintage – classic, timeless, unique. Vintage pieces have a history waiting to be told and a story waiting to be written. Vintage pieces are unlike anything you can buy in any store. They are one-of-a-kind pieces that create a moment in time where you feel special. Think about it – Vintage wine…vintage records…vintage dresses. Unfortunately, anything vintage these days seems to cost an arm and a leg plus your unborn child. Unless you are fortunate like me and have some amazing vintage pieces passed down through the generations.

I remember receiving my first piece of vintage clothing. It was Christmas morning and I was 10. My sister and I were handed our Christmas present from my great Grandmother and we were ready to rip it open. As we tore off the shiny paper and bow, we both were greatly disappointed in our not-so-pleasant gift…My great Grandmother had wrapped us each a pair of her very own satin underwear. We’re talking old lady style granny panties. I got black and Mallory got ivory. That was the first and last time I wanted anything vintage from my family until recently.

In the last few months, I’ve inherited some beautiful vintage pieces and NOT some undergarments that saw Prohibition. We’re talking vintage jewelry and mink fur coats from my great great Aunt. She passed away when she was 100 so you know she lived through some amazing fashion eras. As a child, I remember spending time at my great great Aunt’s house in her basement. It was always kind of dark and creepy, but it was filled with hidden treasures. The downstairs closet housed some of her vintage handmade clothing. Each dress was luxurious. The fabric was ornate and the buttons were like little sewn on gems. What I wouldn’t give to be 5’2” and a whopping 100 lbs. I’d have a wardrobe like Betty Draper and Joan from Mad Men.

I treasure these vintage pieces. I hope to tell a story when wearing each piece and incorporate these timeless treasures into my modern wardrobe.

Danger Lurking

2009-10-12T10:39:00.005-04:00

Sorry I was M.I.A. for a few days. I was at home in Maryland spending some much needed time with the family while my sister is home from Mexico.

While New York is famous for shopping, I do enjoy shopping while home. After a nice stroll through the mall, we headed to Everything But Water to go bathing suit shopping. As if bathing suit shopping wasn’t painful enough, what happened at Everything, But Water was unexpected and permanently traumatized me.

I was at the register going through the suits we had picked out when I noticed something long, blue and saber-like protruding from the floor. After trying to get a better look at this foreign object, a little boy jumped up with a Star Wars light saber and startled me. In an effort to calm my nerves, the girl at the register said “Oh it’s just the kid from next door. His mom works at the store next to this.” After all, I wasn’t expecting to find a mini-Anakin at women’s bathing suit store.

So I went back to organizing the suits and next thing you know, the boy was slowly pacing towards me with light saber in hand and death all over his face. So I told the kid I didn’t want to play and he should play with my sister, but little Anakin didn’t listen. In fear of my life, I started to slowly back up preparing to retreat to the dressing rooms when my sister came out. All of a sudden, he whipped out a purple light saber and handed it over to my sister (sigh of relief). After about 10 minutes of saber fighting and bathing suits getting knocked off the racks, the boy walks over to me and stabs me in my stomach. My sister laughs. In what world was a little boy supposed to be harassing the customers and stabbing them in the stomach with a light saber? I’ve always dreaded bathing suit shopping, but this really made me loathe it even more.

Eventually the boy tired out and we asked the boy “what’s your name?” The boy stops, pauses a few moments (breathing heavily), and with an unmistakable look of “kill kill kill” in his eyes, the boy says “My name is Danger.”

And people don't understand why I don't like to play with kids....

Walk on the Wild Side - Being Jane of the Jungle

2009-10-07T09:47:00.018-04:00

Tuesday's Outfit

Dress: Express

Shoes: Nine West

Headband, Necklace & Ring: Forever 21

Earrings: Nordstrom

Let's see...yesterday, was your typical Tuesday. I woke up, showered, went to work then went to Joe Shanghai's for my weekly fill of soup dumplings. Oh wait, I got in a fight with a knife and lost. I sliced my finger while trying to remove the seed from an avocado. A band aid wasn't gonna cut it, so I had to bandage my digit using gauze and tape. I have a huge hitchhiker thumb and I can't text.

So Joe's was an absolute disaster! Trying to juggle soup dumplings using chopsticks with a bum thumb is NO BUENO. I lost about 75% of the soup from each dumpling. I was definitely not in tip top shape last night.

Anyway, on to a better topic. Yesterday's blog generated quite a bit of noise. Thanks for all your kind comments…they are always welcomed.

I had no idea so many of you are afraid of animal prints. But, I’m glad to see some of you want to walk on the “wild side”. Animal prints DO NOT BITE. Animal prints can be subtle if you accessorize them properly. If you’re afraid of attracting too much attention, try wearing some bright shoes to draw the eye downward.

I’ve put together some of my favorite cheap fashionable animal print pieces under $40.

First Row (Left to Right): Zebra Cardigan, $49.50 from Delias; Leopard Cardigan, $49.50 from Delias;

Second Row (Left to Right): Turquoise Leopard Chiffon Top, $19.80 from Forever21; Leopard Print Block Print, $34.90 from Alloy.

Third Row (Forever 21 Left to Right): Grey Leopard Lucite Bangle, $5.80; Red Leopard Lucite Bangle, $5.80 ; Leopard Square Bangle, $5.80

Fourth Row (Left to Right): Silver Leopard Flats, $24.90 from Alloy; Bronze Leopard Flats, $39.50 from Delias; Leopard Skinny Belt, $4.80

Leopards, Cheetahs and Zebras, Oh My!!

2009-10-06T09:24:00.012-04:00

Monday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie

Shoes: Black/Gold MaryJanes

Headband: Forever 21

I love animal prints and lucky for me, they are always in fashion. Leopard, cheetah and zebra prints (to name a few) are a playful fun way to liven up any outfit. Whether it is for a night on the town or to spice up your work wardrobe, adding a little print goes a long way. But I’ll be the first to tell you, there’s a fine line between tasteful and tacky.

For those animal print veterans, a pop of color never hurts. For those new to animal prints, start small and keep it neutral. Colors like gold, silver, bronze, black, white and grey are great for adding a little pizzazz without drawing too much attention. Gradually you'll become your own Jane of the Jungle. Careful Tarzan.

Here are some of my favorite animal print pieces in my closet....

P.S. My home slice, Rachael, made me turquoise leopard print silk pillows for my room. I absolutely love them!! Thanks, Rad.

A Tale of Two Tights

2009-10-05T09:39:00.015-04:00

Most of my friends know the story about my first time purchasing tights, but I thought I’d share the story with the rest of you.

Two years ago when I started wearing dresses, I decided to purchase tights for fall and winter. One Saturday morning, I headed to Bloomingdale’s in search of tights. When I got to Bloomie’s, they were having a hosiery sale so the selection was minimal. But luckily, I was able to snag a pair of black and brown Hue tights. I remember wearing tights when I was little and they were very uncomfortable. The tights were always falling down. All-in-all, tights were miserable! But there was no way I was going to spend the winter in New York with bare legs.

So one chilly morning, I opened the black tights dreading the struggle I was about to encounter. I slipped my foot in the first leg of the tights, then the other leg. I started pulling them on and they glided up my legs like silk. No struggle…yet. Then before you know it, the tights were on and I was shocked. I couldn’t believe how easily they went on and how comfortable they were. But there was still the walk to work. Would I be walking awkwardly hoping my tights didn’t drop? Nope, I walked to work and spent the rest of the day feeling great. My legs were warm and the tights fit just right.

Later that day, I went online to purchase some more of these amazing tights. We all know how exciting it is to find something we love and we have to buy them in every possible color. Well that’s what I did with these tights. I opened my browser and in the search bar I typed in “Hue Plus 3”. What came after I pressed “Enter” was shocking and made me laugh hysterically. Apparently, in my search for tights at Bloomingdale’s, I had purchased Plus Size tights. Yes, I was wearing the largest size of plus size tights. No wonder why they went on without any struggle and were amazingly comfortable. Unfortunately, the plus size tights only lasted one good use.

Moral of the story: Follow the size guide on the back.

Trendy Tights

As a lover of all patterns and colored tights, I’ve selected some of my favorite trends in tights.

Late Night Cardio

2009-10-01T09:30:00.005-04:00

Happy Thursday! Unfortunately, I don't have much to report about yesterday. Yesterday was a very abnormal day. Nothing remotely crazy happened to me, then again, I wore a skirt, not a dress so that might be the reason why.

I did manage to gather my new roommates to enjoy a nice elegant dîner at Joe Shanghai's. We haven't had a chance to hang outside the apartment so I figured a nice dinner was in order. As a frequent Joe Shanghai-er, I am fairly certain the staff recognized me because they pulled out all the stops. The waiter pulled out my chair and hung my jacket on the back of my chair twice (my jacket had fallen off my chair). Since this was such a momentous occasion, we enjoyed a four-course meal. Our meal started with a basket of soup dumplings with a TsingTao beer. Then we enjoyed some delectable scallion pancakes. Followed by another basket of soup dumplings. Finally we topped off the meal with some refreshing orange slices.

The rest of evening was filled by our favorite past time, the DVR. At about 10pm, I turned in for the night to catch up on some recorded shows in the comfort of my own room. I made the horrible mistake of watching "The Real World/Road Rules Challenge". The final showdown started at 11:20pm, and before you knew it, I was doing late night cardio. Just watching the competition on tv got my heart was pumping fast and the adrenaline rushing through my veins. Damn you late night cardio!

P.S. I refrained from the "Joe Shanghai Soup Dumpling Facial" this time. Apparently, it's bad for your skin if you do it more than twice a month.

Wednesday's Outfit

Skirt: Banana Republic

Vest: H&M

Ruffled Shirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Franco Sarto Grey Suede Mary Janes

"Sex Color" and Raptor Claws

2009-09-30T10:05:00.006-04:00

Last night, I went for my weekly manicure and 10 minute massage. It was definitely a red nails week a.k.a. “Sex Color” week. I’ve been a loyal customer of Ann’s Nails several months now, but rarely get the same manicurist. Ann’s Nails must be stacked at least 30 manicurists because I hardly see the same women.

As a creature of habit, I’ve always been a little jealous of the women who go to the same manicurist and have an ongoing relationship with them. They always hug, catch up on the gossip, and the manicurist ALWAYS gives them a longer hand massage plus free Quick Dry! I’ve always wanted a relationship with a manicurist, but convenience is much more important to me. Anyway, like any normal trip to the salon, I took the first available manicurist and sat down with “Sex Color” in-hand(Essie Fishnet Stocking). You’ll never guess who my manicurist was... Low and behold, there she was - the “Sex Color” manicurist.

So I sat down, handed over the color that embarrassed me a week ago, and said “I’d like a 10 minute massage as well.” She smiled and began taking off my purple polish. Surprisingly, the manicure was going smoothly...no embarrassing comments about the red polish this time (sigh of relief). As she was finishing up my second coat, I was looking forward to the massage. Then I glanced at her nails and saw some BIG RAPTOR CLAWS. Immediately I got nervous because women with long nails tend to dig into me while massaging me which makes for an unenjoyable massage. Not to mention, I usually have to ask the masseuse to easy-up because I bruise like a peach.

The walk to the massage chair was a dreadful one. How do I tell someone to easy up with the raptor claws? I can’t say “please cut and file those things before we proceed”-that would be rude. So I kept quiet, positioned myself in the chair, took a deep breath and thought, here we go. She started massaging my back and it felt wonderful. But I didn’t want to celebrate just yet - I still had 9 minutes and 50 seconds left…still plenty of time to dig those claws into my back.

Minute after minute went by and I was in heaven. Who knew the “Sex Color” woman could give a massage like this with raptor claws like that. Holy cow!!! It was A-MAZING!!!! I had to get her name. At the end of my massage, I asked what her name was. She replied “Cici”. I said, “Well Cici that was the best massage I’ve had here. Thank you very much.”

After a massage like that, I wouldn't settle for anyone else's raptor claws. I had to have Cici's massage. Ladies and gentlemen (if men actually read this), I found “the one”. I found my very own manicurist to start a long-standing relationship with.

I slept very well last night…like an un-bruised peach with “sex color” nails.

Tuesday's Outfit

Cardigan: Anthropologie

Satin Leopard Camisole: Express

Skirt: Banana Republic

Belt: Forever 21

Shoes: Nordstrom

Ring & Necklace: Forever 21

The Red Shoe Diaries

2009-09-29T09:53:00.013-04:00

After several years, I’ve decided to retire my red heels and start my search for a new pair. If you haven’t heard it before, a pair of red heels is essential to any girl’s wardrobe. It’s a fun, simple and flirty way to take a plain outfit and add a pop of color. Take Dorothy for example; her world was black and white until she stepped into those ruby red slippers. Just like that, those red slippers colored her world and turned everything upside down. Not only did she have the Wicked Witch jonesing for her shoes, but she made a lot of friends along the way AND got a free makeover at the end.

Just like Dorothy, every girl needs her own pair of ruby red slippers. But let's do away with the slippers and sequins, and add 4 inches.

Here are some of my finds in my quest for the perfect red heels. All the shoes are under $150 and available at Zappos.com or Endless.com.

Monday's Oufit

Dress: Floating Lotus Dress from Anthropologie

Navy Cardigan: Aqua from Bloomingdale's

Purple Shoes: Fornarina

Accessories: 54" Pearl Necklace; Ring from Forever 21

The All-You-Can-Drink Brunch

2009-09-28T10:20:00.007-04:00

This weekend was like any other weekend. Kyle and I went on our 4 mile run then we counteracted our morning run with tons of delicious yummy calories at brunch. But we’re not just talking your basic eggs and bacon brunch….we’re talking the All-You-Can-Drink brunch. Now everyone knows brunch is a staple in New York culture, but the All-You-Can-Drink Brunch has slowly become a way of life. It’s an opportunity to gather your closest friends, chat it up, eat Eggs Benedict, all the while fisting endless goblet-sized mimosas.

This weekend we decided to branch out from our normal brunch spots and tried La Carbonara (located on 14th Street and 7th Avenue). This little Italian comfort-food restaurant is adorable and has very something for everyone. Did I mention it's very affordable and delicious? To be honest, most of the time, I find myself sacrificing the quality of the food for the drink special, but not at La Carbonara. The restaurant was quaint, the menu was extensive, the food was delicious and the drinks were abundant. The entrees ranged from $7.95-$12.95 and the drink special was $15 for unlimited Mimosas, Screw Drivers and Bloody Marys.

Upon arrival, I sighed with relief when the hostess had given us the back room. To break it down for you: 9 people + hours of endless drinks = LOUD!!! At the height of brunch, the hostess made a terrible mistake and sat a party of 5 in the same room with us. We all knew they would not stand a chance. After 20 minutes of censored conversation (well sort of…), the party asked to be moved out to the regular dining room.

Once the drinks started pouring, we started roaring.

Website with All-You-Can-Drink Brunches:

http://www.sheckys.com/newyorkcity/nightlife/articles/afternoon_delight_best_all_45_you_45_can_45_drink_brunch_6242.asp

Gregory is sporting my recent fall purchase...

My "Purple Rain" Sweatercoat available at Anthropologie

All Things Shiny, Bright and New – My Recent Forever 21 Finds

2009-09-24T13:56:00.008-04:00

Thursday's Outfit

Dress: Leifsdottir from Anthropologie

Headband & Belt: Forever 21

Earrings & Necklace: H&M

Ring: Lalique

Shoes: BCBG

Fortunately, nothing crazy happened to me yesterday. I’ve decided to get back to the roots of my blog – Clothing and Accessories.

All Things Forever 21

Forever 21 is a great place to find cheap and trendy accessories. I never feel guilty about buying loads of accessories because I know it will last me a season and will eventually be replaced with the next season’s trend. While New York has plenty of Forever 21 locations, I can’t seem to muster up the courage or patience to shop in the store. Here are my recent Forever 21 online purchases and some ideas of how to wear them.

The color purple and patent leather are two of my favorite things (among many others). Both belts add a little “edge” to your outfit. I pair these belts with a black sheath dress, tights and some large colorful accessories. (Belts $4.50 each)

In the words of Rachel Zoe – “ OMG! I Die. I Die.” I just purchased these puppies and love them. The flowers are big and make a huge statement, but no guts, no glory. I pair these with pretty much everything I own that fits into the color scheme. Deep purple is huge this season and looks great with any hair color. Each of these headbands comes in several other colors and range from $4.50-$7.80 each.

When it comes to rings, I say “the bigger, the better.” Maybe your long-term boyfriend will get the hint… Rings are a great way to put your stamp on any outfit. A simple solid dress with a colorful ring and tights goes a long way. The rings range in price from $3.80 - $5.80.

Necklaces are always a great accessory to make any outfit more dramatic. Large, long and layered necklaces are definitely the trend this season. Pair these necklaces with a high shirt or dress neckline or even a collared shirt that’s unbuttoned (a little cleavage, but not too much). Prices range from $7.80-$14.80.

Accessories are supposed to be fun and reflect your personal style. Never think twice about what anyone else thinks. Wear what makes you happy. My theory is - As long as YOU like it, ROCK IT!

The Soup Dumpling Facial...Take That Spa Week!!

2009-09-24T09:58:00.001-04:00

New York's Spa Week in is just around the corner. For those not familiar with this epic week, Spa Week is when many spas offer their treatments for only $50. This allows women to pamper themselves at New York’s finest spas for a fraction of the price. Such treatments include spa pedicures, massages and facials. Now, normally I participate in this awesome week of indulgence, but this year, I decided to pinch a few pennies. And, in the honor of Spa Week and the horrible economy, I’ve decided to let you all in my new-found SUPER CHEAP SECRET – the “Joe Shanghai’s Soup Dumpling Facial".

Now, one can argue what makes someone a true "New Yorker". But the real telltale sign is if you’ve experienced the infamous Joe Shanghai Soup Dumplings. Tucked away in the dirty crowded streets in Chinatown, is the gem known as Joe Shanghai’s. Without exaggeration, people line-up for hours to taste these savory little miracles known as the soup dumplings. I, however, line up for the dumpling facial. As soon as you sit down, the waiter asks “dumplings?” You’re response should always be – “Hell Yes!” Forget beverages, they are secondary to the dumplings and for pansies.

The Soup Dumpling path from the kitchen to the table is a hot one. The waiters swerve through the tables to get the dumplings to their customers as fast as possible. This creates what’s known as the “danger zone”. As soon as the waiter plops these delectable treats on the table, I hope and pray the steam comes my way. I hover (slightly) over the basket of dumplings and let the steam saturate my face. I’ve always thought, a sign of a good facial is – does your facial smell good enough to eat? In this case – definitely!

So for those who are hungry, want to pinch a few pennies and participate in Spa Week 2009, try the “Joe Shanghai’s Soup Dumpling Facial”. I promise your tummy, wallet and face – you won’t regret it.

Joe Shanghai’s
9 Pell Street
New York, NY 10013
www.joeshanghairestaurants.com

Spa Week 2009
http://www.spaweek.com/

Wednesday's Outfit

Sweater: Zara

Shirt: Tommy Hilfiger
Skirt: Banana Republic Shoes: BCBG

2009-09-23T09:24:00.000-04:00

Tuesday's Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie
Necklace: 54" Pearl Necklace

Purple Suede Shoes: Fornarina

"Sex Color" - Did She Really Just Say That??

Hello, my name is Erica and I am an addict….a Manicure Addict. I love the look of freshly painted nails. So shiny; so deliciously glossy. Nail polish is a highly under-rated accessory and I LOVE that my best friend works for a large nail polish company. Each time we see each other, she showers me with the hottest trends in polish. Rad, you’re the best!

Back to my addiction….Every 5 days or so, I head to Ann’s Nails (24 Maiden Lane – FiDi), the home of the $8 bulletproof manicure. I love walking up the squeaky old steps to the 2nd floor and into the salon. I yell “manicure” and the woman says 3 of my favorite words - “pick a color.” The moment I gaze up at the wall of color, I am in heaven. Rows and rows of eye-popping colors. So many choices, so many possibilities. I usually have an idea of what color I want before I walk in, but the second I see the wall, I lose all train of thought and scan each row for the perfect color.

So this time, I picked out bright red. Red is a color I visit every few weeks. Nothing screams “dang my nails look great” like good old-fashioned blood red. As the woman finishes my base coat and starts on the first coat of red, she stops and looks up at me. What came out of her mouth next put me in total shock. I actually thought – Did she really just say that??

The manicurist said “sex color”.
I responded with a big fat “WHAT?!”
She then repeats herself and says “SEX COLOR”.

Okay, so I quickly scanned my brain for things that rhyme with sex. Nope…it didn’t sound like “T-Rex”. It definitely didn’t sound like “Mex” or “Chex” or anything else other than “SEX”. I felt my face turn the color of my polish. I thought she was calling me promiscuous for wearing such a classic color. Then the manicurist next to her said “her English is not good. She means ‘sexy color’ (pronounced like seeexxxxyyyyy). “ Okay, SEXY color, not SEX color. Phew…I let out a sigh of relief. For a second there, I thought I’d have to abandon Ann’s Nails. But, sexy color - I can dig that. When she finished I thought – my nails certainly look sexy…that’s for damn sure.

The Head and The Headband

2009-09-22T09:38:00.000-04:00

Monday's Outfit

Dress & Rose Belt: Anthropologie

Headband: Forever 21
Shoes: Enzo Angolini Peep Toe Pumps

I absolutely love accessories! Accessories are key pieces that allow you to express yourself and can make your outfit unique.

Accessories can be anything from chunky bangles, layered necklaces, tights, belts, to my personal favorite, headbands. Thanks to Gossip Girl and Blair Waldorf, headbands are everywhere. There are tons of little booths popping up on the sidewalks in SoHo selling custom-made feather and sequin headbands. They truly are a must-have accessory and can add that little 'je ne sais quoi' to any outfit. However, not just anything can fly as a must-have essential accessory. There are some accessories that will ruin even the best outfits as they often can overpower the outfit itself. The accessories to avoid are: fanny packs, fake dog purses and MANNEQUIN HEADS.

The other day, I was at XES, the gay bar I frequent with my lovely boys, having our usual 2-for-1 cocktails. When all of a sudden Gregory says "very carefully, look what's on the ground over your right shoulder." What I saw was tragic and haunts me to this day. There was a mannequin head surrounded by cigarette butts with piercing green eyes, large silver hoops, and what looked like a late 90's prom hair up do. Where did this head come from? Who would bring such a thing to a bar. Next thing you know, this head is the talk of the town and there's a line to take pictures with it. Talk about a conversation piece.

Where I Find My Headbands:
Forever21.com
Anthropology
Kadette - Located on Prince between Broadway & Mercer (Thursday-Sunday)

About Me

2009-09-21T12:15:00.000-04:00

My name is Erica and I’m your typical 26 year old, but I only wear dresses. Yes, I ONLY wear dresses.

About 2 years ago, I realized I had fallen victim to the “corporate” world and was wearing the same drab pants and skirts with blasé blouses. I was bored with my clothing and never looked forward to getting dressed the morning. I lost my passion for fashion. So, in an effort to add a little color to the corporate world, I kicked my closet up-a-notch and went on a hunt for some colorful, girly, feminine pieces. What happened - I only bought dresses.

You see, I’ve always owned dresses, but they were for special occasions like semi-formals and weddings. I never tried on dresses when casually shopping. In fact, I never seemed to notice them. It was like the proverbial “veil” was lifted from my eyes and I only saw dresses. I can say with full confidence, I never truly appreciated the power of a great every day dress until I bought those first few dresses. That was the beginning of the end. I had a new passion for fashion. I loved the way a dress made me feel – feminine and original. It was exciting to dress up and dress down a dress with a pair of bright tights, shoes or a patent leather belt. For once in a long time, I was excited to get up in the morning and get dressed.

From that moment on, I’ve only worn dresses or occasionally skirts. Both my closet and I have slowly transformed into a “dresses only” zone. I still own button-up shirts, blouses and pants, but the pants are now in the back of my closet taking up valuable space. Just to be clear…I do wear pants to work out and when traveling, but I haven’t put on a pair of pants, including jeans, to go anywhere other than the gym or airport.

After much encouragement from friends, I’ve decided to start a blog to document my days wearing dresses. Where this blog will go, I can’t say for sure, but I am hoping it breathes new life into the girls who are bored with their everyday wardrobe and looking to add some color to their world.

Left Shoe - Where Art Thou?

2009-09-21T11:58:00.000-04:00

Friday was a very sad sad day. It probably sounds a little heartless to say this, but I know what Jessica Simpson is going through. She's missing her beloved dog Daisy that was snatched by a coyote and I'm missing my beloved left Marc Jacobs shoe.

Friday was like any normal day. I came into work, plopped my purse on my desk, kicked off my walk-to-work shoes and was about to put on one of my favorite pairs of shoes when I noticed the left shoe was missing!!! Holy Crap! I dropped to my knees like a gunshot heard in South Central and began scouring the floor. It was nowhere to be found. I was missing the left shoe of my Marc Jacobs black peep toe with colored polka dots. The right shoe was chilling by itself and looked lonely. It's sole-mate ran away.

I know I left them both under my desk so where did the other shoe go? I hadn't worn them since the week before and the other 2 pairs that were under my desk the day before were still there. I searched the rest of my office high and low for the shoe...absolutely no luck. The only possible solution is that the cleaning lady accidentally threw it away in the trash. Why and how...I don't know. But I know both shoes were there the night before.

After filing a report with building management and conducting an investigation, the shoe is still M.I.A. and I am S.A.D. The head of Cleaning said the cleaning lady never saw the shoe and did not put it in the trash. She said it was probably one of my co-workers doing it out of "jelosity" (yeah she said jelosity). I don't believe my co-workers would do such a thing. I think the cleaning lady either has a friend with only a left leg and wears 8.5 size shoes.

It feels like part of me is missing. They were from a few seasons ago and irreplaceable. Where art thou left shoe? Come home...your mother and sole-mate are waiting.

P.S. If anyone sees a one-legged woman in a wheelchair wearing polka-dot peep toe shoes. Grab the sucker off her foot and run. Don't let her wheel you down. There will be a reward involved.

Tights and a Lap Dog

2009-09-21T11:41:00.000-04:00

I’m a huge advocate of tights - all colors and patterns. They brighten up any outfit and let you go one more day without shaving your legs. So you’d think in a fashion-forward city such as New York - anything goes. Okay, I must admit, I still am occasionally surprised when I see fashion faux paus like an all white outfit after Labor Day.

Speaking of which, I saw the most bizarre thing the other day. I was outside at Rink Bar having a cocktail with my friend enjoying the last bit of summer when I looked at the woman sitting at the table next to me. The woman was decked out in all white which I quickly forgot when I noticed she had a white dog on her lap. It looked like a white maltese dog. Now, I must admit, the dog’s hair was a little on the nappy-side, but I thought…aww cute, I love dogs. Then I noticed a peculiar line down its back. I then realized, the dog on her lap was not an actual live dog, it was a purse. YES, a dog purse. It had a zipper running down its back, a pink bow in its hair and a strap. Haha, where did she get it? I want one…SIKE! That was the first time in a long time where I shook my head in disbelief. This was a grown woman not a 5 year old girl toting around a fake dog purse. Lady, if you’re going to be sporting that, please brush the purse’s hair!

Anyway, back to my tights. I seem to always, without fail, get random comments from people while I’m wearing colored tights. I know men (other than the gays) don’t quite grasp colored tights, but you’d think they would keep their thoughts to themselves. After all, if you don’t have anything nice to say, complain to your friend “the vent” and move on. The other day I wore a black dress, accessorized it with a fun belt and mustard yellow tights. On my walk to the subway, a guy in a hard-top Jeep yells “Hey Big Bird. Nice Tights!” I continue to walk and pretend I didn’t hear the comment. After all, am I love my mustard tights and all that matters is that I like them.

Again without fail, a few days later, I was walking through SoHo wearing eggplant purple tights with a dress and a matching purple headband. I had just finished getting my hair cut and I walk passed these two older men (probably in their early 50’s) and one of them yells “What’s up with the purple blondie?” I quickly spit back “what’s up with the questions?” Can’t a girl wear her tights in peace?