Apple Picking II

One of the greatest blessing in my life are all of my sweet (and very fashionable) friends! I love highlighting their outfits and sense of style because I'm constantly inspired by what they are rocking each season. We all went apple picking recently, and of course, they came dressed to the nines.

Leather riding boots, vests as outerwear, chunky scarves, and sunnies were just a few items that my #fashionablefriends have been loving all season. I hope you find inspiration from them, just like I do! 

Apple Picking Part I

I had so much fun apple picking recently with my #fashionablefriends! Admist photographing their stylish looks and beautiful smiles, a friend suggested we reverse roles and highlight my outfit. I have been wearing this Anthro jacket non-stop. It is the perfect weight for cooler fall weather and I love juxtaposing it with a feminine blouse underneath. 

Headband: Etsy, Jacket: Anthropologie, Leggings: Zella, Boots: Lands' End

Made in America

Labor day weekend means barbecues, beach days, and picnics for many Americans, but for Philadelphians, we celebrate with the music festival Made in America. 

Over the past two years, patriotism has established itself as more than just a feeling, but also a fashion statement. With events such as the Olympics, the Fourth of July, and national holidays, it seems like there's always an occasion to wear stars and stripes.

From my fashionable friends, it was clear that "America" can be expressed in ways other than the classic red, white, and blue. Body glitter, black and white graphics American-themed graphics, gold details, and frayed denim were popular trends.

Wearable Art

Beauty and wonder is often created out of misery and challenges. If you are in need of evidence to understand that statement, look at the jewelry collection photographed below, belonging to my fashionable friend, Emily. The collection of "wearable art" as Emily likes to call it, which consists of vintage earrings, rings, bracelets, and a plethora of necklaces, came into Emily’s possession through inheritance from her grandmother. Emily’s grandmother, Jane Krantz, experienced the same economic difficulties that faced many Americans in the Great Depressing during the 1930’s.

            When the hardships eased, Jane Krantz did what any girl would do- she treated herself to a few luxuries! In this case, that would be many luxuries that her granddaughter continues to enjoy and showcase.

            In addition to looking stylish in her grandmother’s jewelry, Emily is bringing pride to her family, and starting a new family tradition. Emily shared that her father is often overjoyed when he catches her wearing his mother’s pieces. Also, Emily intends to pass the pieces onto her daughters, creating an extension of joy.

Left: Emily. Right: The Wearable Art Wall

Emily's favorite piece in the collection.

“They are so unique and I do see things today trying to replicate them.
These are the originals and that holds value to me.”

By the way how clever and glamorous is this DIY? Instead of buying a chandelier,
Emily draped strands of beads and pearls around her ceiling fixture. 

ROMEing The Guide Book

It has been long overdue for a new post but that is because I have been working on big things!

One of which is this book:

ROMEing- The Guide Book

Due to a busy schedule, scattered Internet access, and simply living in the moment,

I did not get in as much blogging as I expected while in Rome.

However, I took this opportunity to do something new and different-

to write a guide/book/publication, whatever one may call it, it is 29 pages of fun insight any traveler should know!

Anyone can read it or download it as a PDF through this link!

Divertiti! 

The Familiar and Unfamiliar

We take for granted the luxury of being understood. For the most part, as humans we seek to be inside our comfort zones and surround ourselves with people that understand us literally through language but also with people that understand what we say, when we say it. I for one, love being inside my comfort zone, I always have. It was not until I traveled here to Italy that I experienced language barriers and the challenges they present.

Thankfully, many Italians speak English and are very friendly. However, there have been instances of struggle. It is due to these obstacles that I now appreciate communication and its helpfulness when done properly, as well as the comfort that it provides. I think there’s no greater feeling than belonging and understanding amongst people.

Out of these challenges, I have also gained a new appreciation for conversing with everyone. Random people on the subway, gelateria owners, waiters, and other travelers- it has been very fun to talk with them all!  When one is surrounded by strangers that do not speak one’s language, a person seek support from anyone, even strangers that do understand you. Any simple sentence in a familiar language can bring about a smile between two people, typically followed by a lovely conversation. In fact, it is very refreshing to light heartedly talk with many random people each day. It has become my favorite aspect of this experience.

Strangers may be the unfamiliar, but somehow are providing the greatest sense of comfort right now; it is an odd sensation. More than anything from this experience abroad, I hope I can integrate this new value of communication into a lifestyle when I return to the United States.

Five Favorites of Italy

1. Unique Italian Boutiques
Forget any well known stores, wander into the tiny places that you have never heard of before, they have the best one of kind treasures!

2. Gelato
It's so delicious, and its everywhere! My favorite flavor so far, Nutella!

3. Scenery
The most special experience of Rome is walking to the grocery store, post office, or to a restaurant and passing by beautiful & historic monuments on your way. You literally live amongst some of the most beautiful and important pieces of history.

4. Ceilings
I think I may have a new obsession with ceilings! Why aren't all ceilings painted with such detail and thought today? My neck may ache but my eyes are captivated. 

5. The History of Art
If you have ever taken an art history class, you will experience the images in your textbook coming to life before you eyes- its amazing! Everything is much more grand and breathe taking in person!

One Week Away

One week until the new series "ROMEing begins."

Men Madness: Jake

The final look of men madness, for now at least, features a really stylish guy who I am blessed to have as a strong presence in my life, it's my brother! He's a pretty fashionable guy (maybe it runs in the family) and I am always pleasantly surprised by the outfits that he puts together. He's really great at making the most of what he has and then taking from the wardrobe of my uncles and grandpa. Thrifty and trendy, I'd say that's pretty on point, wouldn't you?

Men Madness: Erick Part III

Look closely. Did you notice the detail in the sweatshirt above? As I said in a previous post, Erick notices details. By infusing special pieces like this, it elevates a casual look into a statement. If you break down this look, it is simply khaki's, a button down shirt, and sweatshirt. Every guy has these three pieces, if not multiples of each piece! If these pieces were chosen wisely, then they are a great fit, favorable color, and have interesting details. Any man can easily replicate this outfit, but can also make it their own with pieces that speak to them.

Men Madness: Erick Part II

It probably is not the first thing a guy thinks about when dressing himself, shopping, or going through his wardrobe. But the fact is, every guy should own cardigan. Cardigans can we worn over just about everything- tee shirts, button downs, a pull over sweater. And they can add some interest to your outfit. Take for example at Erick's cardigan pictured above, it has interesting contrasting buttons and the elbow patches are a chic detail.

Still unsure of a cardigan? Pair it with rugged shoes and a pair of dark wash straight legged jeans, plus a confident attitude, and you'll nail it for sure.

Men Madness: Erick Part I

Erick, 22

Meet my friend Erick, he's truly a sophisticated and smart guy. And how do we know that? Through his character and personality, but also by how he dresses. Through little details and his use of accessories, anyone can tell that he puts thought into his outfits. But not too much thought of course, because his style is very laid back, cool, and effortless. The best thing about this stylish guy's wardrobe- everything mixes and matches! By collecting many neutral pieces over time, he has collected a wardrobe that is timeless but also ensures versatility. Plus he's doesn't shy away from pieces somewhat outside the box. You'll see what I mean in these next few posts.

The key lesson to learn from this stylish guy- that if you are a warm, intelligent and respectable guy, you really should have a wardrobe that matches that. Not only is Erick admired for his character, but also for how he presents himself to the world. Be charming in every way- that's what we can learn from him.

Men Madness: Steve Part III

An open button down with basic khakis and shoes is a look that will never go out of style. This look is classic and can be worn just about anywhere. It's also gives the impression of being put together but doesn't look like one's trying to hard.

Men Madness: Steve Part II

Cool and confident. Sometimes fashion doesn't require that many words; it speaks for itself.

Men Madness: Steve Part I

A go to look for many guys: their favorite jersey. And yes, it can be stylish when done right. Ladies love to see a man in a uniform and even more than that, women love to see a guy doing something he is passionate about, for example, playing soccer.

This outfit is a winning look for two reasons, the head to toe uniform aspect. It's crisp, clean, and very sharp and also it expresses who Steve is, a vibrant and spirited athlete.