Already Pretty

Enjoy the 4th!

2009-07-04T06:50:00.002-05:00

Happy Independence Day, Americanos!

Image courtesy Jesse Draper.

Clothes as Decor

2009-07-03T06:41:00.000-05:00

I recently acquired several lovely new hats, including my beloved red-and-teal zippered one from AudraJean's Etsy. And while I seem able to squeeeeeze nearly infinite numbers of skirts and blouses into my closet, these newly purchased accessories made my above-closet storage space scarce rather quickly! Hats are BULKY little critters, and I often found myself buried beneath an avalanche of chapeaus whenever I opened my closet door.

So I did this. Because I'm a lazy jerk with the home design instincts of a fruit bat, I took a piece of packing twine and some plastic closet clips from Target and strung this masterpiece together. Ez or Melis would've done waaaay better, using hand-knit silken ropes and clips fashioned from reclaimed antique clothespins or similarly amazing and aesthetically pleasing supplies. But ya know what? I think it STILL turned out kinda cute, despite my virtual non-effort. Because you focus on the hats, not the crap-ass twine. Or, at least, that's what I'm telling myself.

And then I remembered ...

... that I felt similarly about the gorgeous jewelery rack that my dad built for me a couple of years ago. In this case, the rack is beautifully constructed, of course. But your eye is mainly drawn to the array of colorful necklaces, which add a lot of personality and texture to our bedroom.

For most of my life, I've kept my wearables hidden away in closets and drawers, even if they were gorgeous works of art worthy of display. And now I'm feeling more and more like putting my accessories and clothes out in public areas of my home makes sense. After all, style IS my main hobby ...

Do you ever use displays of your clothing, shoes, or accessories to decorate your home? If so, did you build display areas yourself, or buy fixtures or shelves? If not, does the idea appeal?

Alternate Neutrals

2009-07-02T06:59:00.000-05:00

Black, white, gray, khaki, denim. Oh, how we rely on these colors to anchor our outfits! They are the neutrals we all fall back upon when we grab a wildly-printed floral blouse or heavily-embellished skirt ... then draw a blank upon trying to complete the ensemble. I mean, white goes with everything, right? Black will work with any color, won't it? Just throw on a pair of jeans, it'll be fine.

Yeah. Sure. I guess. But as challenging and overwhelming as color experimentation can seem, opting for alternate neutrals livens up your look instantly.

Now, I love me some black. And I'm rather fond of white, gray, khaki, and denim as well. In fact, I wanted to illustrate this post with some past outfit photos, and the two above were the only ones I could find that didn't feature black, white, khaki, or denim ... and the one on the left even includes my gray boots! But I have been pushing myself to rely less and less on the expected-neutrals and find my colorful experiments to far more inspiring and aesthetically compelling.

Here are some of my favorite alternate neutrals, and the colors I've tried in combination with them:

NAVY is by far my favorite alt-neutral. Two years ago, I was convinced that navy could ONLY be worn with white and red, creating nautical looks that were decidedly anti-Sal. But I've since found it to be the perfect mate for an array of pinks, olive and sage greens, florescents, and rich purples.

RED runs a close second to navy. Now, I realize that many complexions can't take a lot of red, but nearly anyone can pull of a red skirt, pant, or pair of shoes. Red is a loud, active color and brings its loud activity to any outfit, punching it up and making it instantly livelier. Try red with its close relatives orange and fuschia, and more distant cousins purple and blue-green ... and play around with tonal reds. Bricks and maroons, washed reds and burgundies can work with subtler colors than the bright pinks and purples shown here.

OLIVE GREEN is a staple for some, but overlooked by many. This color is so versatile, I am yet to find any shade that truly clashes. It also looks striking when paired with both black and white.

If you're a rules person, take a peek at the Academichic's in-depth exploration of color theory and figure out why certain combinations work so well. If you want the Cliff Notes, see what Trinny and Susannah have to say about color pairings. But also engage in some outright color play, when you have the time. I've been challenging myself to create outfits that are completely free of standard neutrals, and I do so through sheer experimentation. Very, VERY seldom do I hit upon a pairing that makes me sqwunch up my face in distaste. And the more I explore pairing color with color, the more I want to keep up the grand experiment.

Could you go a week without wearing black? White? Gray? Would you want to? Got any colors that you consider alternate neutrals that the rest of the world sees as non-neutrals? How do you feel about pairing color with color?

What We Do for Beauty

2009-07-01T07:03:00.009-05:00

At the age of 32, I’ve finally started wearing makeup. Now, for me, this means a bit of clumsily-applied mascara and some much-needed powder in the oily afternoons … but still! It’s been a long time coming, and I blame it all on Sonja.

Sonja writes incredibly engaging posts about beauty and beauty products over at The Coveted, and hers are the only writings that have ever piqued my interest in makeup. A while back, I got into a spirited conversation about eyelashes with this witty, accomplished, and utterly lovely lady. I had tried curling mine, it had gone badly, and I had lamented this fact on Facebook, and soon, Sonja and I were chatting away about eyelash alterations. The discussion quickly turned to how women go to astonishing lengths to look and feel beautiful, and then the lightbulb went off, and I demanded a post-swap.

So, fabulous Sonja is the author of today’s fascinating and informative post about some rather extreme beauty practices, and I’m guest posting over at the Coveted about the link between style and self-love. Please peek at both, and weigh in!

- - - - -

There are so many things we do for beauty. Personally, I can’t imagine life without an elaborate skin care routine. I get that partly from growing up with a mom who is all about skin care. I also love the ritual – the inherent relaxation that comes with taking the time to slather on luxurious lotions and potions. I’m also very into makeup. I love to paint, so makeup is just an extension of my creativity and an opportunity to “paint” every day.

But there are some things we do for beauty that just aren’t fun or pleasant and can be downright painful. Sal and I have been e-chatting about this subject after her experience using a lash curler. I was so flattered when she asked me to write something about this for Already Pretty.

The Eyes Have It
In light of our conversation, I put together a list of some of the odd and painful things we do for beauty, with a focus on the eyes. From lash curlers and lash perms to lash tinting and eyeliner tattoos, we do so much to play up the windows to our souls.

Eyelash Curlers. These are funny contraptions that I’ve only recently begun using. I’ve got pretty long lashes that have some curl to them so I’d never bothered with them. They kinda freak me out – the whole squeezing something along my eyelids. I actually got pinched once when I was getting my makeup done at a department store. That was unpleasant.

But over the last few months, I’ve learned that many women swear by these and use them every day or even more than once a day. It makes sense. Lashes can be a little goofy. Lashes tend to curl down for Asian women. And one of my friends, who isn’t Asian, says she has “donkey lashes” that stick straight out.

I finally broke down and bought one after seeing what a big difference the shu uemura curler made when I got my makeup done at their boutique here in San Francisco (here’s my post with a video of my makeup lesson and said lash curling). I picked up their swanky, 24K gold limited- edition version at Sephora (may as well have the extra pretty version!). But I have yet to get into the habit of using it. I keep forgetting I own it.

Note to the lash curler curious: all lash curlers are not created equal even if they all look alike. Something about the softness of the steel of the shu uemura curler and so forth make it a stand out so it’s become the gold standard, so to speak.

Lash Perms. Now if you don’t want to bother with everyday lash curling, lash perms are an option. Yes, lash perms. These make me giggle. I didn’t realize anyone did this. In fact, I had just been joking with Sal about the possibility of someone inventing tiny little lash curling irons or teensy little lash curlers for us to wear overnight. And then lo and behold, the next day my low-maintenance friend Christine surprised me and told me she’s been getting her lashes permed for years.

She says it can sting a bit but that it’s nothing unbearable and the stinging doesn’t last long. She says perming makes her life easier and simplifies her routine. She does it every two to three months at $55 a pop.

Lash Tinting. I got my lashes tinted for the first time a few months ago at one of the San Francisco Benefit boutiques. It burns! It burns! I know it’s not because the woman did anything wrong – I’ve read that’s normal with tinting (see this super funny post at the babyassface blog). I didn’t help my cause by continuing to chat with my friend after the nice tinting lady told me to stay mum. Keeping my trap shut would’ve prevented my face from moving around and thus making the dye less likely to get in my eyes. And yet, I kept on yapping and thus you can see my sad little stream of tears in the pic.

I don’t really need my lashes tinted, because they’re pretty dark to begin with. I was taking one for the team, as it were, so I could see what it was like. While I wouldn’t recommend it for women with dark lashes, I highly recommend it for women with fair hair. My friend Erin, who’s blonde, got her lashes tinted when I was having mine done. It made a huge difference on her. It really brought out her beautiful eyes.

Fake Lashes. I have to admit these can look amazing. Why else would all the mascara ads mislead us by putting fake lashes on the models? (Yes, they lie to us!) I rarely ever put on false lashes, though. I find I’m incompetent in this area. I had to get assistance when applying them for my sister’s wedding. I kept putting them on wrong and they would point the wrong direction (we were using individual fake lashes). Plus, I can’t imagine that using glue on your eyes on a regular basis can be good for the delicate skin around the eyes.

But I may actually start wearing them every so often after being inspired by how awesome everyone looked at a shu uemura party I attended, where they showed off their super dramatic, unique new lash collection (you can see pics here). I’m going back to the boutique next month to shoot a lash application lesson and get some tips so I can, hopefully, shore up my skills.

Tattoo You. Now for the big guns … er, needles. My friend who gets her lashes permed also got her eyes tattooed a couple years ago so she doesn’t need to wear liner. This is not for me. I don’t want anyone poking and sticking dye around my eyes. No sir. Christine says this can definitely be painful. She recommends finding someone who applies numbing cream first and uses numbing solution as she goes along. She says it makes a huge difference.

She also says she had to go back for touchups after her first tattooing, because she was too timid and asked for a very natural look, which turned out to not be very noticeable. She also had her eyebrows tattooed to fill in areas where there are gaps and to extend the length at the ends.

Along with being painful, tattoos are costly. Her salon charges $300 for eyebrows, $300 for upper eyeliner, and $250 for the lower eyeliner. She says you can get it done cheaper at tattoo expos but there’s no guarantee anyone will be doing permanent makeup at a show. Christine thinks the cost is crazy but “if it helps us feel beautiful inside and out, it’s worth it.” Plus it makes her beauty routine a lot easier.

The Ultimate Beauty Torture
I’m sure there are plenty of other things I could add to this list, like Botox, plastic surgery, and things I can’t even think of. Surely, a list of what we do for beauty could go on for miles. But I’m going to wrap it up here with what I consider the ultimate beauty torture … the Brazilian. Yes, the wax job that spares no hair down there.

I’ve heard that it’s the most amazing thing, that you feel so different after having it done. But I’ve also heard that it’s seriously painful and you really need to get a recommendation to find someone who’s way pro at this. I find it hard to imagine getting all those hairs ripped out. But I have to admit, I am quite curious. One of these days, I’m gonna have to finally go for it.

Do Tell
So what do you do for beauty? Is it painful? Is it worth it? Do tell.

Lash perming image by Apolinar Fonseca,

Already Prettypoll: Family Matters

2009-06-30T06:48:00.001-05:00

My mom has red hair, pale skin, and freckles. Growing up, we got a lot of comments about how I must look more like my dad. But my dad has black hair, dark olive skin, and no freckles. I am not the spitting image of EITHER. And it kinda weirded me out growing up. I mean, was I secretly adopted or something? Why the hell didn't I look like my parents?

But I do.

I SO do.

I have my mom's exact nose. It's uncanny, peeps, we are like nose-twins. Also got her freckles, though mine are dark brown instead of auburn. My dark brown peepers come from my Daddy-o, and I still secretly credit him for my dark brown locks as well. Both Dad and Sal have the ability to turn brown merely by THINKING about the sun, even though I am far paler. I've got my mom's delicate hands, but my dad's muscle-y build. I'm still not sure where my sassy set of hips came from as neither parent sports those, but it's good to have something of one's own.

What physical traits did you get from your mom? Dad? What have you passed on to your kiddos, if you have 'em? What is uniquely yours?

Random Outfit Roundup: June, Part II

2009-06-29T06:46:00.003-05:00

Click to enlarge, as always!

Dress Margaret Mousley via Lizze
Dansko Nylas
Straw bag thrifted
Sunnies, Miu Miu
Chain bracelet, made by me

On location in scenic Hudson, Wisconsin, in a dress I'd bought the day before and couldn't WAIT to wear. Apparently Lizze has been in business for three years, but I'd never even seen this tiny, St. Paul boutique before. This dress is handmade from Marimekko cloth and set me back a whopping $29. Such love!

Drapey vest, eBay
White tee, American Apparel
Olive crops, thrifted
Madden Girl Lusterus

Originally tried this out with a big necklace pile, but liked it better kinda plain. I had sunk into my lawn a good inch and a half by the time HM snapped this photo. Damned voles ...

Oranges and Reds Necklush
Red tee, American Apparel
Black jersey skirt, Express (last winter)
Diesel Go-Gos
Bangles, a gift from Cal

This skirt has become a warm-weather staple for days when I am too lazy to shave my legs, but it's too hot for jeans. It's sinfully comfortable. This is also the debut of my Necklush, a really fun piece that I've been lusting after on Etsy for months and months. I went with this standard configuration, but they've got videos on more creative ways to style your loopy loops.

White tee, American Apparel
Tan skirt with pockets, Boden, shortened a TON by me
Red Tsubo Acreas
Wood and resin necklace, The Mexican Shop

I was thrilled to see that my childhood haunt, Evanston's The Mexican Shop, got a write-up in a recent issue of Lucky. I've been buying funky jewelry and slightly weird clothes at this family-owned joint since I was 10, and can't head home to visit the 'rents without stopping by. During our June visit, I managed to limit myself to this chunky necklace, a darling newsboy cap, and a slightly weird jacket that will make an appearance come fall. Husband Mike likes this necklace because the resin cube looks a bit like an organic marshmallow.

Faux pearl necklace, a gift from my mother-in-law
Silver necklace, thrifted
Eyelet dress, The Mexican Shop several years ago
Vintage belt, thrifted
Red Tsubo Acreas

The night before I put this outfit together, I found myself gazing at the cover of the new Sundance Catalog and thinking, "Why can't I look like that?" And then I realized I had most of the same pieces already ... and voila! Another Cowgirl Sal look was born.

Blazer, J.Crew
Grey dress, thrifted
Red belt, thrifted
Chunky chain, thrifted at Abigail Page Antique Mall (the day the floral dress got worn, in fact!)
Red shoes, a gift from K.Line

As promised, I finally worked these wonderful shoes that K.Line generously bestowed upon me LAST FALL into an outfit! They're just as comfy as they are cute, and I was well pleased with how this outfit turned out. Even if the belt is a little matchy-matchy, how could I resist pairing two items that feature both red patent and silver hardware?

This blazer was a J.Crew sale bargain and is a color called "spicy olive." This makes me realize how impressionable I am when it comes to color names. My brain wants to believe this is an exotic greeny-olive, but ya know what? This blazer is YELLOW. "Spicy olive," my left butt cheek.

Paging Reader "storiteller"

2009-06-28T23:52:00.000-05:00

You might want to check this out. If the winner doesn't contact me by July 10, I'll pick another.

Sunday Shoes: Puma Vitta flats

2009-06-28T13:21:00.002-05:00

Although these adorable flats mainly serve as my bike-to-work shoes, I do occasionally haul them out for normal wear. I like to pair them with my ridiculously wide-legged navy blue Anthropologie pants and magenta sweater with the orange trim. Actually, I think that is the ONLY outfit I've ever worn them with.

I have an almost identical pair stashed in my desk drawer at work. Those got a little distended, and also quite smelly ... so I keep 'em in the file cabinet as my emergency backup shoes. You know, in case my boss decides to send me on a cross-campus errand on a four-inch-heels day ...

Shopping from Your Inbox

2009-06-28T08:21:00.006-05:00

I'd say I buy about 70% of my clothing, shoes, and accessories online. That percentage has crept up slowly over the past 10 years, but I don't think it'll creep any higher because I actually DO enjoy shopping in person. It's just that I've become rather adept at tracking down precisely what I'm looking for online ... and have a tougher, more frustrating and tiring time of doing it in person. Hence, the whopping 70%.

As a frequent online shopper, I've always gotten about 16 hillion jillion e-mails from vendors tempting me with sales and new merchandise, luring me in with promises of bargains. And I bite more often than I probably should, and I actually enjoy being in the know and jumping on those great deals first thing. These vendor e-mails have been the norm for ages, and I'm used to them.

But the new breed of inbox-shopping-temptations is not based on single brands. I've already written about Shop it to Me, my personal fave, but there are dozens of other e-mail services that collect data about your personal tastes and budget, and provide you with customized bargain lineups on a semi-weekly basis. There are also growing numbers of online sample sales, hawking fabulously expensive designer duds at nearly-affordable prices to subscribers only.

It's all getting a little dizzying.

And I'm curious to know if this inbox influx is a shopoholic's game, or if you readers who only purchase online on occasion also feel inundated with shopping-related information and temptation.

How many store e-mails do you get as a result of your online purchasing activity? Are they helpful, or annoying? Do they make you spend more online with tempting coupons and subscriber discounts? Do you do Shop it To Me? Gilt Group? Other non-store based shopping updates?

Groove Your Body to ... Johnossi

2009-06-27T20:11:00.001-05:00

It's Saturday night! Why not groove your body to "Man Must Dance" by Johnossi? (Thanks, Jozette.)

Traci Mann on Why Diets Don't Work

2009-06-27T08:03:00.004-05:00

Several folks asked me to re-post some of Traci Mann's lecture on why diets don't work. I haven't been able to get hold of that stuff just yet, but did find this older article on her research at UCLA to tide you over.

The sound byte:
"We found that the majority of people regained all the weight, plus more. Sustained weight loss was found only in a small minority of participants, while complete weight regain was found in the majority. Diets do not lead to sustained weight loss or health benefits for the majority of people."

But be sure to read the whole article here.

Goodwill Gets Wise

2009-06-26T06:56:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, JunebugB forwarded this fascinating NYT article to me. It describes how Goodwill Industries is attempting to change the way consumers view their thrift emporia: Realizing that the economically-strapped American public is looking for ways to continue consuming while spending less, Goodwill is changing its store appearances and marketing strategies in an attempt to cast a broader net. They want a piece of that sought-after Recessionista pie.

From the article:
Many Goodwill stores have increased the size of their sales floors to display goods more generously ... rather than turning them out jumble-sale-style. Shoppers expecting a traditional thrift store might be surprised to enter one of Goodwill’s free-standing “boutiques” in cities including Milwaukee; Palm Beach, Fla.; and Portland, Ore., which offer daily deliveries of donated designer goods and department store labels in the manner of a fast-fashion chain like H & M.

Other special items are featured online in Goodwill auction and shopping sites, and some stores have even staged fashion shows.

Husband Mike and I just happened to be in Milwaukee on the weekend that one of these new gussied-up Goodwills was having its grand opening. Retique in the Third Ward was offering wine, truffles, and other hors d'oeuvres to its guests as they perused the store's offerings. I didn't end up purchasing anything, but came across Trina Turk, Susana Monaco, and Theory in my search as well as abundant J.Crew, Banana Republic, and Ann Taylor, all in impeccable condition. Prices were a little higher than thrift - in the $15 to $30 range instead of $5 to $10 - but still undeniably reasonable. The shop looked less like an overstuffed thrift store and more like a consignment shop, with brimming racks organized by color and tons of space to amble around. The lines for the two fitting rooms were long and moved slowly, but it was, after all, opening night.

Some of the thrill of thrifting is finding undervalued bargains - a Max Mara shirt for $3, a White & Warren sweater for $10. But now Goodwill is "seeking more brand-aware managers equipped to recognize (and, to some degree, exploit) the market value of luxury labels." And ya know, I think that's fair. I may be in the minority, here, but I always feel like a bit of a cad nabbing these undervalued items. Maybe it's my overactive guilt gene talking, but I just think that if the pricer had known the true value of the item, it would've cost me more. Doesn't stop me from buying, or make me feel guilty enough to saunter up to the counter and say, "Don't you know what this is WORTH?!?" But I still get a twinge. And since 84 percent of Goodwill's revenues go into job training for the disabled, I'm pleased to hear that they're getting wise and cashing in on the true value of the merch they're peddling. Especially since these upscale Goodwills will augment, not replace, the hodgepodge-tastic thrift stores that I've loved all my life.

What do you thifting fiends think of this new development? Would you shop at a fancified Goodwill, or does it eradicate the thrill of the bargain hunt? Does it make sense for this organization to change its strategies, given the economic climate, or are they giving their loyal customers the short shrift?

Image courtesy New York Times/Hiroko Masuike.

Reader Request: Kickin' it Monsoon Style

2009-06-25T06:49:00.000-05:00

Ages ago, Kristophine popped this plea into the suggestion box:

Fashion for people in rainy, rainy places. Where I live, it rains from October through June with the occasional full-on downpour in high summer. I love to look nice, but I get trapped wearing the same things over and over because I can't think of how to escape.

I'll admit it: I had to mash down my thinking cap pretty hard for this one. I ABHOR wet toes and a wet neck, and become excessively ornery when days of rain prevent me from wearing pale pants or delicate shoes. So I can totally see how Kristophine might get stuck in a rut.

But I think I've come up with a few options that are relatively versatile for the rainy-climate resident ... and hopefully you ever-resourceful readers can contribute some helpful tips, too!

Rainy Style Part 1

Outfit 1: Dark Wash Skinnies Tucked into Boots
Not everyone likes this look, and it won't flatter every figure. But if you can carry it off, it's ideal for wet walkings.

Outfit 2: Mary Janes and Bright Tights
MJs are my go-to for transitional seasons because they bridge the gap between airy summer shoes and heavy winter shoes. Unless you're slogging through ankle-deep puddles, they would work great in a rainy environment, too, what with the closed toes and stacked heels. Pair them with bright tights for warmth and a little sassy counteraction to their innate schoolgirlishness.

Outfit 3: Knee-high Boots, a Miniskirt, and a Floaty Tee
Here's your outfit for that summer downpour, Kristophine. Tall boots may be cold weather staples, but if you pair them with slightly revealing garb, they can work year-round. And if it's warm and rainy, the LAST thing you'll want is to be sloshing around through the wet mud. If you can, pick a pair in a light or eye-catching color, and with a decent heel. Black riding boots really are wintry-looking, no matter what you pair them with ...

Outfit 4: Motorcycle boots, Leggings, and a Tunic
It doesn't get comfier than this! The tunic can be a short- or long-sleeved one, depending on temperatures.

Rainy Style Part 2

Outfit 5: Melissa Shoes and a Dress
Even if you fear the resurgence of jelly shoes, you're likely to give Melissas a pass. Water-repellent plastic, environmentally sound, and utterly adorable, they'd likely make up 80% of my shoe wardrobe if I lived in a rainy part of the world. Pick a closed-toe style, throw on a fab frock, and be done.

Outfit 6: Cropped Pants, Heeled Oxfords, and a Sweater
A cropped trouser will prevent moist and muddy hems. Pick heeled oxfords with interesting detail, and throw a scarf over your cardi for a great finishing touch. This outfit could work with a subtle tight, or with a bare leg.

Outfit 7: Ankle Boots, a Knee-length Skirt, and Tights
Pick a skirt with some flounce to offset the toughness of the boots. Or just pick out a fairly feminine style of ankle boot! If you're worried about this style of shoe stumpifying you, wear tights in the same shade to elongate your leg.

A few other tips that came to mind as I was assembling these outfits. Maybe they're the height of obviousness, but just in case:

Carry Your Shoes, Walk in Wellies: If you've got fab footwear that you want to wear and are unwilling to sacrifice, just pop them in a tote and pull on your rainboots for your walk. Cute rain boots are still all the rage, so hunting down a great pair shouldn't be hard.

Embrace Hats and Scarves: Keep that moisture off your neck and head! Find a hat style that works for you, and cash in on the seasonless trendiness of scarves.

Class Up Your Rain Gear: I have to imagine that anyone living in a place where it rains from October to June knows this ... but a great umbrella, adorable hat, classic and flattering trench/raincoat, and pair of rainboots you adore are all worthy investments. Find and purchase, and consider cost-per-wear if you select something gorgeous but pricey. These items will get CONSTANT use and are worth spending big for class and quality.

Anyone else out there live amongst the raindrops? How do you stay stylish AND dry when life is one big downpour? Any brands or items, specifically, to recommend?

Image courtesy youngdoo.

Body Positive Music

2009-06-24T06:47:00.002-05:00

Earlier this year, I wrote about my favorite body positive television shows, but as I mentioned in that post, I struggled to think of more than a couple of programs that truly preach the word. Well, I've been trying to cook up a body positive music post for AGES and hit the same wall: Only a handful of songs came to mind.

So I chatted up my Facebook and Twitter friends and harvested a few awesome ideas, but I'm hoping you'll all chime in with yet more. I'll get theis party started ... and we'll count 'em down backwards, Billboard stylie:

7. Lily Allen - Everything's Just Wonderful
I do love me some Lily, and she's definitely into subverting the dominant paradigm ... but tends toward the whiny side of body image issues, which is why she's last on MY list. Still, gotta give the girl credit for calling a spade a spade.

Why can't I sleep at night,
Don't say it's gonna be alright,
I wanna be able to eat spaghetti bolognaise,
and not feel bad about it for days and days and days.
In the magazines they talk about weight loss,
If I buy those jeans I can look like Kate Moss,
Oh no it's not the life I chose,
But I guess that's the way that things go

6. Ani DiFranco's "Evolve"
Ani has many, many powerful feminist anthems in her back catalog and several touch on issues of beauty, body, and sexuality. But my favorite is this snippet from this fairly recent release.

So I walk like I'm on a mission cuz that's the way I groove
I got more and more to do, I got less and less to prove
It took me too long to realize that I don't take good pictures
Cuz I have the kind of beauty that moves

5. Prince's "Kiss"
Prince's horny-ness knows no bounds. Power to the Purple One for wanting ALL of our kisses, no matter what we look like. (Also in this category: Flight of the Conchords' hilarious "Ladies of the World")

You don't have to be beautiful to turn me on
I just need your body, baby, from dusk till dawn
You don't need experience to turn me out
You just leave it all up to me
I'm gonna show you what it's all about

You don't have to be rich to be my girl
You don't have to be cool to rule my world
Ain't no particular sign I'm more compatible with
I just want your extra time and your
Kiss

4. "My Funny Valentine"
Along the same lines as Prince and FOTC, but considerably more tender and less raunchy. I'm partial to Elvis Costello's cover of this Rodgers and Hart classic, but couldn't find it on YouTube, so you'll have to suffer through the dazzlingly talented Sarah Vaughan.

My funny Valentine, sweet comic Valentine
You make me smile with my heart
Your looks are laughable, unphotographable
Yet you're my favorite work of art

Is your figure less than Greek, is your mouth a little weak
When you open it to speak are you smart?

But don't change a hair for me, not if you care for me
Stay, little Valentine, stay
Each day is Valentines day

3. Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful"
Sure it's a bit cheesy, but Chrissy serves up a simple, powerful message. This chorus could be an anthem for women who struggle to love themselves.

I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring me down
So don't you bring me down today

Click to view/hear ... embedding is disabled

2. "Free Your Mind" by En Vogue
Oh my, my, do I ADORE this song. Those harmonies still give me goosebumps. I remember being in high school and watching this video over and over, mesmerized by the costumes and the voices and the strong, resonant message. Screw the circus, I wanted to run off and join En Vogue.

This song is about shattering prejudices of all types, and doesn't focus specifically on bodies, but gets major bonus points for addressing issues of personal style and dismissing image-based stereotypes. Musical bonus points for giving us neeeeearly enough cowbell.

I wear tight clothing and high heeled shoes, that doesn't mean that I'm a prostitute
I like rap music, wear hip-hop clothes
That doesn't mean that I'm out sellin' dope
Oh my forgive me for having straight hair
It doesn't mean there's another blood in my heirs
I might date another race or color
It doesn't mean I don't like my strong black brothers
Why, oh, why must it be this way?
Before you can read me you got to learn how to see me

1. India.Arie's "Video"
Pretty much the ultimate. It doesn't get more affirming and powerfully positive than this, kittens. Listen, absorb, and let the serenity wash over you.

Sometimes I shave my legs and sometimes I don't
Sometimes I comb my hair and sometimes I won't
Depending how the wind blows I might even paint my toes
It really just depends on whatever feels good in my soul

I'm not the average girl from your video
and I ain't built like a supermodel
But, I learned to love myself unconditionally
Because I am a queen
I'm not the average girl from your video
My worth is not determined by the price of my clothes
No matter what I'm wearing I will always be the India.Arie

Click to view/hear ... embedding is disabled.

Over to you, my dears. What's YOUR favorite body positive song? Post a link so we can all have a listen!

India.Aire image courtesy About.com, Lily Allen image via tidepooler, Ani DiFranco image courtesy Bilerico Project.

A Little Goes a Long Way

2009-06-23T20:46:00.002-05:00

ON set by Already Pretty featuring Old Navy

Interested in a $5 gift card from Old Navy? Click to find out more.

Did YOU Win?

2009-06-23T17:58:00.001-05:00

Click to find out.

This week I love ...

2009-06-23T06:47:00.005-05:00

... treehouse 28 designs.

Asymmetrical ruffled top
$55

Wide strap dress
$65

Hooded dress
$65

I've loved everything in Alix's amazing shop for several years, but am yet to purchase. Her deceptively simple designs, penchant for asymmetry and funky exposed seams, and flair for creating clearly comfy yet undeniably stylish garments has made her a longtime Etsy fave. Amazing prices definitely help, too.

My recent obsession with cropped pieces for layering brought me back to her shop a few weeks ago, and rekindled my desire to order up a top or two ...

Rust demi
$45

3/4 asymmetrical top
$40

Asymmetrical half top
$40

Items sell out quickly, so if any links are outdated just visit the shop's main page. Alix is great about reposting.

A New 'Do for You

2009-06-22T06:51:00.000-05:00

So there was a bit of an outcry in response to this video post: You guys seem to think I'm a prize-winning nutjob for demanding an annual review of your hairstyle! And, as someone who only allowed subtle variations on a hair-theme for several years, I really do understand. But I'm standing firm on this one, and here's why:

1. A bad hairstyle can ruin great personal style: You may have a closet full of Prada and Chanel, or vintage gorgeousness galore, or killer shoes from all eras ... but if you've got a frizzy, unflattering, outdated, or otherwise ill-suited hairstyle perched on your noggin, it's all for naught. I've seen impeccably dressed women with unfortunate tresses and I swear it strips them of their stylishness instantly. A good cut is mandatory for a stylish woman.

2. You can outgrow your "perfect" style: I heard several folks say that they'd labored to find their ideal 'do, and were loathe to tamper with it. And I dig. I do! But our tastes change, and my friends, our FACES change. If we don't allow our hairstyles to follow suit, then we run the risk of looking like a Bratz head stuck on a Barbie body. The "perfect" style that you nailed five years ago might not be so "perfect" now if your wardrobe, body, or face has shifted even slightly. And if you don't reevaluate, you'll never know if an even better style is possible. This applies if you're 16, 36, 60, any age at all. We are all in flux at all times.

3. Stagnation is unbecoming: If you're in college and have been sporting the same style since you were 16, you look like you haven't matured. If you're in your fifties and have been sporting the same style since you were 40, your cut may age you: When people see the same old coif, they're likely to notice how much your face has aged in comparison to your unchanged hairstyle. Mix it up to make sure your hairdo matches the current version of you. Mix it up to show the world you're a mysterious, ever-changing creature of beauty.

4. Review doesn't mean change: I'm not saying that you need to drastically alter your entire hairstyle every twelve months. No way, no how! Subtle change can be just as effective at keeping your look fresh. Add some layers, get a few highlights or lowlights, find a new updo and wear it several times each week, get some barrettes or headbands into rotation, add bangs, grow out your bangs, try a new product, add or change color, straighten or curl your locks a few times a week. It doesn't have to be an overhaul, just an injection of newness.

5. Never shun an opportunity to reexamine your style: Many of us evaluate our wardrobes and purge out the unecessaries every SEASON. Forcing yourself to take a long, hard look at your hairstyle once a year is really not so much to ask. When you stop seeing yourself, you run the risk of stifling your own style. Look often and look honestly at your gorgeous self, and make sure you're doing your utmost to highlight your best features.

It's daunting, kittens, but it's worth it. Mark your calendars for a yearly hairstyle review, or run the risk of stylistic stagnation.

Still don't believe me? Then take it from Angie!

Photo courtesy hannanik. The woman pictured is Emmanuel Jal, a Sudanese-born hip hop artist, in an impromptu photo shoot in a London hair salon.

Sunday Shoes: Camper Twins leaf sandals

2009-06-21T13:09:00.004-05:00

I've had these lovelies for nearly five years and they are still a summertime favorite. They're from Camper's Twins series, a design line featuring right and left shoes that are slightly different from one another. This Twins iteration is subtle, the orange suede leaf placement being the changing variable, but I still love them for that quietly quirky detail.

I'm pretty sure that all Camper shoes have rubber soles, and these are no exception. That orange wedge is solid, but has a lot of give, making these remarkably comfortable walking shoes. Mitigated a bit by the windy ankle strap, which can chafe a bit, but these pups are still darned decent for a stroll around the park.

P.S. They're a little crushed-looking because they live in an over-the-door shoe rack and I've got both of them wedged into a single pocket ... I tried to uncrush, but failed. Just imagine them plumped up a bit!

ManFashion Interlude: EVALUATED

2009-06-21T08:30:00.002-05:00

When I was a teen, I lived in flannel, overalls, and combat boots and my dad called me "farmer Sal." AND YET he always trusted me to pick out sweaters and shirts for him when he needed to do a shopping run at Marshall Fields.* But even without my guidance, my dad was always a sharp-dressed man. His recent penchant for Hawaiian shirts is a little alarming to me, but I feel that, overall, he's got great taste.

It's Father's Day! How fashionable is YOUR dad?

*RIP

Groove Your Body to ... Ladyhawke

2009-06-20T20:09:00.004-05:00

It's Saturday night! Why not groove your body to "Magic" by Ladyhawke?

(Lame-o vid, I realize, but you'll be grooving your body anyway. You'll hardly notice.)

The Great Unfolding

2009-06-20T08:04:00.000-05:00

"The art of being yourself at your best is the art of unfolding your personality into the person you want to be. . . . Be gentle with yourself, learn to love yourself, to forgive yourself, for only as we have the right attitude toward ourselves can we have the right attitude toward others."

~ Wilfred Peterson
(via lovely commentor, [Whit])

Image courtesy ElektraCute.

Shopping Your Dominant Season

2009-06-19T06:46:00.000-05:00

Back in May, I bought about 10 new pairs of tights. Sure, they were on sale at Target and Banana Republic, and sure I needed to replace the multitudinous pairs that I ruined over the course of LAST winter ... but, um, it was May. It was already warm and sunshiney and very much the height of spring.

Also in May, I attended the Shepherd's Harvest fiber fair with Trinknitty, where I found this crazy-magnificent alpaca hat:

Yes it is monumentally silly and yes it is undeniably fabulous and yes it would keep my head SO DAMNED WARM during the brutal MN winter. And although I didn't have the money for it at the time, I do now. And I've made an appointment to visit the vendor's alpaca farm (!) to purchase it. In July. The height of summer. And I have already purchased the mittens pictured above to match it, as well.

Well you may say, "Sally, that is utter lunacy." WELL you may say! But there is method to my madness, I swear. Well, a little bit of method anyways ...

Spring and summer clothes are generally pretty and fun and flirty and a joy to wear. And when I first became interested in upping my style quotient many moons ago it was very early spring, and I stocked up on gorgeous sandals and silky skirts and perfectly-fitting tees. And I spent all of my wardrobe-revamp money on that stuff and was gorgeous all summer. And then winter came and I had jackshit that was worth wearing and frumped my way through the subzero months unhappily. I actually spent several winters feeling unhappily unstylish, and stymied about how to change my look. Spring and summer style just seemed natural and easy, and winter seemed flippin' hard.

And then Angie changed my life with these four simple words: Shop your dominant season. Here in MN, winter is dominant. (I mean, duh. The other seasons tremble and cower at the mere mention of Mighty Winter.) And THAT means that my cold weather wardrobe should be my focus, even during warmer months. While sandals are lovely, I've begun to limit my new pairs and focus on pumps and boots, which can be worn year-round. While sundresses are fantastic, I am better off with sheaths that can be utilized in layered looks as well as worn on their own. And while it may seem bizarre to the outside observer, it makes perfect sense to me to replace my tights and buy an awesome new hat during the summer. All part of making sure that I am still smokin' come January.

Hawaiians will be summer-dominant, Londoners fall-spring-dominant, and Icelanders even more winter-dominant than I. It's easy to fall into the trap of shopping heavily for the season you love best, but it's more practical to shop heavily for the season you live through longest.

This was a total revelation to me. Is it to you? Do you live in northern Canada and have drawers full of shorts and tank tops? Did you hear this advice ages ago and begin applying it? Or have you shopped your dominant season instinctively for ages?

Random Outfit Roundup: June, Part I

2009-06-18T07:08:00.007-05:00

Click to zoom, kittens. And let me know if I have anything in my teeth ...

Green blazer, thrifted
Magenta shell, thrifted
Navy skirt, Ann Taylor
Gray Tsubo Acreas

This outfit was NOT what I had in mind. I'd paired the skirt with a magenta button-down and gray obi belt, but was too lazy to take the belt and shirt off to apply my newly-bought deodorant ... which left weird grease marks on the shirt when I jammed it in through the open placket. Bah!

However, my last-minute substitutions worked out just as well, I think.

Oooh! And check out the crazy detailing on the butt of this skirt:

Nothing like a little butt-contouring to make you feel like a flirty femme!

Yellow houndstooth blazer, Futurelint's Etsy shop

White tee, American Apparel
Khaki high-waist skirt, Old Navy
Patent magenta pumps, Nine West
Slinky belt, thrifted

I had been eyeing this blazer on Futurelint's Etsy for some time, and when I stopped by her vintage/garage sale a few weeks back and it was still available, I snapped it right up. The blazer buttons asymmetrically, a detail that I just love, but unfortunately loves me not: I look positively linebackerish. Unbuttoned, however, I think it looks totally adorable.

I felt very Mad Men putting this outfit together, but it may err more on the side of 80s glam ... I'm good with either.

Navy ruffle dress, Liza Reitz
Patent magenta pumps, Nine West
Hammered silver cuff, some boutique in Madison, WI

So I realize there's not much to this outfit, but couldn't resist showing off my new Liza Reitz ruffle dress. I feel like I've been in love with this dress for my whole damn life, though it's really only been a year. Once the ban ended, I made a point of moving this item to the top of my wishlist. Liza sells her gorgeous wares as custom pieces out of her Etsy shop, and I sent her a note asking if I could make payments on a ruffle dress. She said yes, and I began the process of measuring my body from all imaginable angles. I did it all wrong, and got a very sweet note from Liza saying something like, "Huh, well these are interesting numbers ... maybe you could try measuring THIS way instead because I don't think it's possible for someone your height to have shoulders that broad ..." She was patient and lovely and, above all, made me an utterly gorgeous custom dress that I will wear for decades.

Check out the ruffle detailing on the hip (left photo) and shoulder (right photo):

Such love for this frock. Many compliments were garnered and I felt prettier than pretty wearing it. Please stop by Liza's shop and order up a dress for yourself. This woman is going to be hawking her wares to musicians and movie stars any day now, so get 'em while you can still afford 'em.

Oh, and I got some new pink shoes, as evidenced by the past two outfits. They're getting mad love, too, despite making me walk like a drowsy baby giraffe wearing a blindfold.

Sweater Tank, Nine West via Marshalls
Silk skirt, Garnet Hill
Dansko Nylas
Bracelets, years ago from The Bibelot Shop

And THIS is one of those pre-made outfits that I mentioned earlier this month ... where I just throw on an embellished skirt and matching top. But look at that skirt, will you? So pretty with the little stripy pleat and the flowers, no? Just had to share.

Pink blazer with grosgrain placket, thrifted
Navy dress, thrifted
Gray platforms, Kenneth Cole Rocky Canyon

As you can see, my newfound love of blazers continues to grow. I'd passed over this pink blazer on a previous thrifting trip in favor of a beautiful black one, but this time around I was SEEKING color.

And that navy dress still makes me feel awesome about my legs ... until I sit down in it, and remember that it rides up so high that the world can see my undies, butt, and lower abs. And sometimes bellybutton. Wore this while having coffee with Sarah Von and her BFF Darcie, and treated both of them to a little more Sal than they'd bargained for. Sorry about that, gals.

Neon yellow Theory cardi, thrifted for like $4(!)
Gray tank, American Apparel via Yque
White cigarette pants, Banana Republic
Gray platforms, Kenneth Cole Rocky Canyon

So I DID go back to BR and buy these pants in white, and they are even trickier than their black counterpart. But I still love 'em. I'm making my silhouette a little more bowling-pin-esque from time to time is actually kinda fun. And I'm pretty proud of myself for wearing them without getting spaghetti sauce, motor oil, Sharpie, and/or balsamic vinaigrette on them. At least, not yet ...

Also madly in love with this highlighter-colored cropped cardi. What a find, no? Think I should try wearing it with these pants? Probably yes.

Guest Post on Work It, Mom!

2009-06-17T23:01:00.001-05:00

Please do swing by to check it out, my friends!

Read the guest post.