style icon: lemon breeland

 

{Kate Spade 'Charm' heels as worn by her in the series, assorted jewellery also worn by Lemon, Lemon's girly style compared to a vintage dress pattern}  

I've been looking for a style icon for a while now. And yes, Marilyn, Audrey, Barbara and Liz have all crossed my mind but I felt it would be more exciting if I found a lady in this day and age. Lemon Breeland {the name makes me giggle!} was perfect. I know she's only a character from Hart of Dixiebut I simply love her style. Lemon has worn countless outfits on the show and I have loved every one. From tulle ball-gowns, full-skirted dresses in every colour of the rainbow to embellished cardigans and decorated hats, the 'southern belle' charm is all there.                                              

 

Hart of Dixie's costume designer Meredith Pollack collects clothing and accessories for the characters wardrobe from a variety of places like vintage boutiques, J.Crew and various designers like Marc Jacobs and Kate Spade. I think any girl would be ecstatic with a wardrobe like Lemon's...
I also read through an interview by Bee-Shyuan Chang for The Inside Source about how Meredith compares the wardrobe of Zoe Hart {leather shorts, structured blazers, studded heels} and Lemon's polished ensembles:

The Inside Source: How would you describe Jaime King's character?
Meredith Markworth-Pollack: Jaime is a former fashion model, which made it incredibly easy to make her look gorgeous. She has such a beautiful vintage Grace Kelly look, so it was an obvious choice to incorporate that into her wardrobe. She has a vintage '50s and '60s feel to her wardrobe and we stuck to long hemlines, lots of pastels and lots of high waistbands. Some of the lines we used were Marc Jacobs and Heidi Merrick. And Suno has been really great for her.

The Inside Source: Being that Zoe and Lemon face off in the series, do you think the distinct wardrobes have played a part in that?
Meredith Markworth-Pollack: The wardrobes definitely help build out these two characters. It's more than just the clothes; there's this ideology that's set up. Lemon is this classic timeless Southern woman with Southern standards and a classic state of mind. Zoe is this strong modern woman in leather shorts and Alexander Wang stilettos. Lemon is immediately threatened by this. No one in Bluebell wears black.

  

Credit: 1 & 2, The CW, Interview except from Bee-Shyuan Chang for The Inside Source

currently into...

A small portion of the things I love at the moment

• Quirky heels {with socks}
• Embroidered collars, elegance, high necked dresses
• Kiera Knightley 
• OPI nail polish. At the moment I'm wearing Serving up Sparkle, very pretty!
• Christmas cheer. I'm a Christmas fanatic, I love the smell of tinsel, gingerbread and cinnamon rolls (I'm attempting them these holidays!)
• Dario Marianelli's amazing music. He wrote the score for both Jane Eyre and Atonement and I've been listening to his music non-stop all day...
•  Etsy store, Hunter Gatherer, stocks the most beautiful accessories
• The movie Anastasia. Dancing to 'Once upon a December' in ballet is the loveliest thing ever
• Hart of Dixie, the tv series with Rachel Bilson. Best. Show. Ever!

I guess you could say I'm a pretty big list maker. I have a journal filled with lists of all sorts. I'm actually looking through it now and I'm surprised at the amount of things I've had to say over the past few months. Wishlists, goals, things to be thankful for, blog ideas, inspiration and feelings etc. It's actually so much fun to read your diary and your thoughts, especially from previous years. I think that'll be another project for the holidays, I can't wait to see what the perspective of my 12 year old self was....

I'm also getting glasses! I went for an eye test today and I have short sited vision. I didn't even realise until I put the glasses on and everything was so sharp and clear. I picked out some subtle frames so that the chances of looking like Mia Thermopolis are slim, haha! (braces are on the way too). ♥

Pictures credit: one, two, three, four

wishlist wednesday

1. Periwinkle of an Eye Dress, $46 via Modcloth
2. The Wheat is on Cardigan, $84 via Modcloth
3. Vintage Chandelier Earrings, $17 via Forever New
4. Paparazzi Peach sunglasses, $40 via MARKET HQ
5. Today's News Heel in Neutral, $66 via Modcloth

(On Thursday! I was meant to post this yesterday, but I didn't get around to it)

I hope you all haven't been too overwhelmed with my girlishness! I have been making an effort though; exchanging silver sparkle nail polish instead of hot pink was a huge deal and I'm quite proud of myself. Anyway, I've been very excited lately because Christmas is coming soon. We set up the Christmas tree last night and it looks so magical. The twinkling lights are so comforting and softly-glowing, it's so lovely to see when it reflects into the room as I'm going to sleep...

And also, I had to introduce you all to a new member of the blogosphere, her name is Emma and she is the sweetest girl ever (look forward to a few happy snaps!) . We go to the same school and I'm so happy she started up a blog, I've admired her gorgeous style and writing technique for ages. My favourite post is the DIY tutorial on newspaper nails. It's perfect for my 'list of things to do' for the holidays.

Enjoy the rest of your week, and Happy Thanksgiving to the celebrants (save me some pie!). ♥

latest discovery: KLING

  

    

It's only been about 2 days since my last blog post, but it feels like an eternity. I've been slightly consumed by school work, but I'm happy to say that all my assessment is over for the year! Yippee! During the short visits to the computer, I have discovered some of the prettiest brands ever, including...

This particulate label is from Spain and is called KLING. It reminds me so much of MinkPink, but a little more expensive looking. I love the dreaminess and hazy feel of this particular editorial, Summer 2010.  

 

now&then

Vintage '50s beach editorial vs. Lover the Label swimsuit. Comparing swimsuits was so easy, especially when vintage designs are really popular right now.

A 1950's dress pattern vs. Aya's pretty frock. Similar full skirted design and belted waist.

I guess you could come to the conclusion that fashion has changed a lot over the decades, but the core classics have remained the same (with slight variations). Full skirted sun/dresses, high waist bikinis, vintage prints, classic Hollywood ball gowns and simple yet daring makeup and hair haven't really gone astray. Most of the time they have just been temporarily replaced (ahem, cue the Twiggy era).

One of my favourite past-times is collecting similar outfits and comparing them between the years difference. I've discovered that it isn't very hard at all to find dresses, hair styles and other things nowadays that are similar {and sometimes identical} to what the rage was way back when (I'm talking the '40s, '50s & '60s). The little collages are just a few examples of how much fashion has stayed very much the same and how classics will always be classic. My favourite is the swimsuit comparison. How did you guess?  ♥

Liz Taylor's gorgeous ball gown vs. modern day collections. Very similar neckline style and printed chiffon.

Marilyn Monroe's cat-eye glasses vs. an editorial with a main feature of red cat-eye glasses.

Pictures courtesy of Pinterest, Lover the Label, weheartit and Strawberry Koi.

weekend bliss

 image courtesy of J.Crew

It has been a very lazy Sunday, I guess this is just a preview of what's to come these up-coming holidays. Enjoying the simple things. Actually being bored. I used to think boredom was a dreadful thing but now it seems quite pleasant as I think of just relaxing and taking in the mellow temperature whilst eating frozen raspberries and blueberries. Novels are going to be effortlessly devoured this Summer too. I guess I have to make up for lost time {it's been a while since I've been able to enjoy a bit, fat book}.
The image above is from the Ruche blog. It's the sweetest DIY on how to make this sweet little bathroom tray. I thought it would be a great idea for a weekend project or for when you have spare time. The design is very classy and Chanel-ish. I can't wait to make one for my new and improved room! (pictures coming soon)                             

Yesterday I went shopping with my Mum for some Summer essentials. I got a cute bustier one-piece swimsuit from Target, similar to the pictured swimsuit. I was slightly more reluctant to get them than my Mum was {the pattern was very bright and bold} but I decided to try them on anyway. It turned out perfectly, the colours didn't make my white skin look blindingly pale or washed out. And, when we took them over to the counter, we realised we had also gotten them at $9.00 off. Bonus! An adorable and unique swimsuit for $36, which leaves me with more money to spend on clothes. ♥

crowns princesses

Discovering Crowns Clothing was like finding a long lost children's storybook. Memories instantly flooded back into my mind as I remembered how much I enjoyed reading (well, I guess I still do!) about the happy lives of the children who lived in cottages or castles, played in forests with fairies and {best of all} wore the simplest, but prettiest clothes ever. Crowns Clothing is an independent business based in Wellington, New Zealand created by a lady called Morgan. The newest collection (featured above, S/S 2012) is whimsical and feminine with a spoonful of playfulness too. The lighting of the photos is also very dreamy and simple. It seems as if you don't even need sunshine to lark about  in these clothes. ♥

november inspiration

The obsession with vintage bikinis and pretty swimsuits in general continues! Any ideas where these came from?

Yes, I still haven't gotten over the 'socks-and-heels' trend. I guess it's all thanks to Mayo Yo from the blog Mellow Mayoness, she has the most gorgeous sock collection I've ever seen; lace, florals, dots and stripes!

I love Carrie's revolving style. She suits the adorable tomboy trends and cute floral fifties look. WishWishWish is a constant inspiration. Her adventures in Paris have especially caught my eye lately, she was even spotted wearing mustard tights (brave girl)! 

Ahh, we are well into November, and I must say, summer has arrived early! I've been inspired so much this month by cute trends, pretty sun-dresses and adorable swimsuits. I'm going shopping for a new swimsuit this Saturday and I'm picking up a vintage style desk and chair for my room from my lovely friend, Belle. I can't wait for the holidays when I can officially start re-decorating my space! Happy mid-week!

I got my first article published in print! Although it's mini, I love it to death ♥

Images are all courtesy of WishWishWish, Pinterest & Orbit Magazine

mimco treasure

(Mimco Lost City Flower headband, available here)

I have to admit, when Rosey (my lovely sister) came to visit bearing a few Mimco goodies, I was pretty excited. Not just because I can't usually afford anything that isn't on sale at the store, but because this Alice band is pink, white and encrusted with Swarovski crystals. Lighting for photos was yet again beautifully coloured and summery making it easier to get the perfect shot with my somewhat amateur camera. I was going to do an outfit post yesterday as well, but decided against it as my hair wasn't cooperating. I guess it's because the weather here has been searingly hot and my hair has turned to fuzz!

I'm also going to be presenting my book report on Anne of Green Gables today. I think it will go well and I'll be glad to be able to cross out yet another assignment off my check-list. The trailer for the tv series is below. I couldn't resist posting it, it's such a great story and this adaptation is amazing.

I was also wondering what you readers would think of a blog makeover for Avenue M. Any suggestions? Do you know anyone who does pretty blog designs? Or would you like it to stay the way it is? I would love to know what you think...♥

dear oh deer

Introducing: Oh Deer Vintage (the Deer Denim collection). I really love this shop (there's a certain ring to the name) the clothes are all unique retro and vintage treasures. Most of the denim is reconstructed vintage too, with added on lace, floral fabrics, patchwork and other quirky details. If you feel like channelling your inner gypsy in floral blouses or your outer peter pan with a collared dress, check out the website, here.

Well, it's been a while since I've updated about the happenings beyond my laptop screen (which has been faltering lately..), but life has been so hectic. Next week will be the busiest of them all, with assessment due every day of the week, oh goodie! And also, I might be getting glasses before next year. I'm not really sure whether I'm excited about that or not... I guess the concern of looking like Mia Thermopolis has kicked in (I'm getting braces too and my hair is incredibly curly) So we shall see!
Anyhow, I'm off to enjoy a berry muffin whilst watching the Princess Diaries (how ironic!), I hope your weekend is wonderful ♥
P.S: All the photos are courtesy of the Oh Deer blog.

stop and smell the roses

I've been very impressed with the amount of DIY talent in the blogosphere lately. For example, this adorable headband made by Carrie got me really excited. She mentioned in the instruction post (here) that it's very easy and fool-proof so this means I can make it without a) pricking myself in the finger b) spending hours pondering how I can construct it. Yay!
I would also like to mention that I was so excited about the overhwhelming repsonse to the last few posts. You guys are so lovely and it's really motivating to get such postive feedback all the time. So, thank you ♥

Anyway, back onto the fashion side of things, casper&pearl (the gorgeous brand I hosted an interview with a while ago) have released another gorgeous lookbook full of lace, florals, vintage shorts and flower wreaths. Basically everything I love!
Enjoy the rest of your week!

spring ramblings

I love the lighting in these photos, yesterday was a really gorgeous day. Just warm enough to wear my pretty little sun-hat and just breezy enough to slip on this ruffled cardigan. The tree these photos were taken under is perfect for a picnic and an engaging novella. Sunday was spent dancing around the house for ballet practice that takes place tonight. I was really happy when our ballet teacher, Kate, told us we were dancing to a song from one of my favourite childhood movies, Anastasia. 'Once upon a December' is such a magical song, and it's definitely bewitched me, I can't stop dancing!

P.S: Photo via Tumblr

I'm also planning on redoing my room in the Christmas holidays. I love the idea of collecting vintage dresses and hanging them up around the room. Any other ideas for DIY decorations? Have a lovely week!

magical world

With fairy-like complexions, pastels dresses, tiaras fit for a princess and twinkling lights illuminating the room, the models for Louis Vuitton S/S 2012 emerged. The carousel started to turn; the placid, white horses, seeming almost like a scene from a fantasy tale.

I haven't always been an ecstatic fan of Louis Vuitton. I'm not entirely into bold geometric prints and repetitive brand symbols but I really liked the S/S 2012 collection. It was just so beautiful. The carousel, pastel coloured frocks and twinkling fairy lights instantly won me over. Floaty dresses in shades of sky blue, snow white and buttery yellow were accompanied by tiaras, strappy shoes and classic make-up. I guess the fact that I’m a fairy-tale loving, floral-wearing and all-things-girly type, the love for this collection was a given. You can look at the full collection via Style Bistro. I just love these pictures of this carousel!

The weekend has started off quite nicely and although I'm exhausted from a hectic week, I feel relaxed. I'm reading Tuck Everlasting at the moment. A lovely story written by Natalie Babbit. In a nutshell, it is a beautifully written tale of the Tuck's, a family who unknowingly drink from a spring that provides them with eternal life. Determined to keep this water a secret because of the dangers and disruption to the cycle of life it would cause, they live a life of secrecy. This is until Winnie Foster, a young girl stumbles across the spring and is curious to know why she isn't allowed to drink it. The Tucks' secret is eventually told and it is up to Winnie to protect it. One of my favourite stories of all time! 

updated

How cute are the hair accessories from Kani's etsy? 

This is a very plain Polyvore I know, but I'm at loss for inspiration! Having to complete comprehension booklets, learn about different religions and study indices isn't exactly ideal for an aspiring fashion writer constantly on the hunt for inspiration. Oh well, the week is nearly over and I have an exciting girls-night-in to look forward to with Izzy! I'm talking Clueless, girly magazines like Teen Vogue and Seventeen, delicious food and the latest gossip.

As well as all that, I completed my purple dress in sewing class and it turned out very nice. However, I've decided to make the drastic choice of chopping off the top of it and altering it into a midi-skirt because the sleeveless design and low neckline are rather unflattering (I guess you could say the Polyvore is a few little things that would go nicely with the dress-about-to-be-turned-skirt). Wish me luck!

Hopefully an outfit post will be up on the weekend, all depending on the weather! 

november blogger: catching up with rose

Hello everyone! I would like you all to meet the November Blogger of the Month. Her name is Rose and she is from the blog, Rose Petals in the Rain. Not only are her photos effortlessly beautiful, but her style is like a dream. Ruffles, pleats, chiffon (and even a Mulberry bag!). I was so happy to have been able to do a little interview with her about style, hobbies, and why she started her wonderful blog. 

What’s the story behind ‘Rose Petals in the Rain’?
I thought about starting a blog a few years ago when I first discovered ‘blogs’. I then dismissed the idea and thought it would be a silly thing to do. I resigned from a job and purchased a digital SLR on a whim after wanting one for a few years. I decided to take a chance and make a blog despite being a bit worried I would make a fool of myself.

How would you describe your style?
I would say simple and feminine. I’m not a ‘creatively complex’ dresser. I love soft fabrics, ruffles and neutral tones.

On weekends or in your spare time, you would most likely be found...
Hanging out with my kitty Chilli, going for a walk, catching up with friends and enjoying doing nothing at all.

What type of camera do you use?
The camera I use for my blog is a Nikon D5000.

Your photos are always so beautiful, any tips on photography etc?
Oh thank-you! I don’t claim to be any kind of expert on photography but here are a few of my tips.
Try to be mindful of the lighting. I prefer to take photos in natural light and I avoid using flash. If you own an SLR and like to take outfit photos purchase a remote. Using a remote is so much easier than running back and forth using self-timer.

If you could have any 3 wishes in the world, they would be...
I wish I had more free time to spend on my hobbies.
I wish I could stay the age I am now.
I wish I could be happy without risking other people’s happiness. I’ve found that difficult lately.

All photos by Rose, view her lovely collection via Flickr.