Flyover Life and Style: fashion

fashion

09/01/2014

Rain + Thoughts on Gluttony {Outfit Post}

It's been a long time since I've done an outfit post. I've kind of shifted gears a bit in life lately, and as my 40th birthday approaches, I've been really contemplative. There are changes I'm making in my life - trying to create healthier habits for myself and my family, and thinking about our future.

I love fashion. I may not always be on-trend, and I may have my own take on style, but I do love getting dressed in the morning. I enjoy reading fashion blogs, and seeing style posts from other bloggers inspires me to be more creative. That is a good thing. But, with that being said, my own style blogging was making me something else: materialistic and covetous.

I've always had the tendency to commit the sin of gluttony over all others. It's something that has caused me to struggle with my weight; it's something that has caused me to collect too many shoes, hair products, cosmetics. Maybe because I didn't have much as a child, the long-won opportunity of disposable income drew me to shop somewhat obsessively at times. But, as I started to survey the heaving racks of clothes in my closet, I began to feel really terrible. Not because I spent a lot of money on any one item, but because it was just embarrassing and kind of gross. I started realizing that I was a glutton. Again.

That was about six months ago, and I forced myself to go on a shopping ban for Lent. After Easter passed, I continued for a few more months. It felt good. I was able to beef up my savings, give to charity, and start thinking about trips and experiences I wanted to have with my family - the things that will really last. A few weeks ago, I went on my first shopping trip in months, gave myself a firm allowance, and chose a few new updates to my wardrobe. It satisfied the urge, without making me feel like I had slipped off the wagon.

I will always love clothes. I'm a thrifty shopper for the most part, but quantity was the problem. This isn't a judgement on fashion blogging or on shopping - both are fun, and I will still enjoy them...in moderation. I'll still do style posts from time to time, but they will be thoughtful, not just an excuse to show off my latest purchases.

It really was raining in these photos. And goodness do we need it. It has been dry as a desert in Missouri. I'm trying to be thankful for the simple things.

Kimono {Target}

Skirt {Ross}

Tank {TJ-Maxx - old}

Boots {Shoedazzle - old}

Damselfly Necklace {Foxy Originals}

Spike Necklace {H&M -old}

Bracelets {Target, Shoedazzle, c/o Alex & Ani}

Sep 1, 2014 5:51:00 AM | experiences, fashion

06/09/2014

Sunshine and Wildflowers {Outfit}

Finding photo locations that are both accessible and picturesque can be challenging. And then, there are the unexpected places like this one - a gazebo in the middle of an open field, surrounded by wildflowers. I have no idea who put this gazebo here, or why - but they must have loved it enough to plan it out carefully. Four paths from all sides led to it, but there were no other buildings around. It's a mystery I would love to untangle.

This vintage dress is made of the ultimate summer fabric - seersucker. It is cool, easy to care for, and comfortable.

Dress {Vintage}

Cardigan [H&M - old}

Shoes {Thrifted}

Basket Bag {Vintage - thrifted}

Ring {Akira Chicago - old}

Beads {Vintage - swap}

Earrings {Target-old}

Bracelets {bottom pic - top to bottom: Lagos, JCPenney, gift}

Jun 9, 2014 5:40:00 AM | fashion, photography

05/23/2014

The Perfect Light {Outfit}

So much about learning photography is catching the right light. I would love to be able to shoot during the golden hour every day - the time when the sun is low in the sky, and exposure is at maximum potential. But I work until later in the evening, and those precious hours when I get home are dedicated to my family.

Mondays are my photography and writing days, and I often have to take outfit photos in less than ideal lighting situations. I am forever searching for locations where there is the right amount of shade (usually shade from the buildings in the historic district where I work) or the light is filtered enough not to cause harsh shadows.

I passed the location where I shot these pictures a few times last week, and noticed there was a copse of trees that formed a perfect umbrella to diffuse the sunlight. I staked it out, wrote it in my journal, and made plans to shoot there the next time I could.

When I got there on Monday, the light was blinding everywhere but in my little hideaway. It was high noon, but the light came through the trees so evenly that there were no shadows to combat, and it flooded my camera sensor with beautiful saturated greens and golds. I can see why photographers get territorial about their favorite spots. This is definitely mine.

My inner drama queen came out a bit in these, but with such a magical location, I just couldn't help myself.

A friend of mine saw this white eyelet sundress at JC Penney last year, and said it reminded her of me. She was so sweet to buy it for me. I really do have the best friends/family.

Doesn't a white dress just scream "Summer is here!"

Happy Memorial Weekend, and to those who serve - thank you.

Dress {JCPenney - last year- gift}

Cardigan {Target - old}

Belt {Kohl's - old}

Earrings {Gift from my husband}

Ring {Vintage}

Sandals {Target - old}

May 23, 2014 5:42:00 AM | fashion, photography

05/07/2014

Zac Posen's Met Gala Triumph

While many people look forward to the red carpet at the Grammy's and Golden Globes, my favorite glamorous affair is the Costume Institute's Met Gala. Boasting a different theme each year, this sometimes over-the-top blend of movie stars, socialites, and magazine editor illuminati is the New York fashion world's answer to the Kentucky Derby. Thoroughbreds of a different kind.

This year's theme honored the aesthetic of famed costumer/designer Charles James - creator of gowns boasting impeccable structure and the true inspiration for Dior's New Look. America's first couturier would have been very proud of the creations on display at this year's event.

Zac Posen's dresses have always been gorgeous, but the clothing he designed for many of the luminous beings gracing the Gala took my breath away. It's as if a gallery of John Singer Sargent portraits came to life. Even more delightful, it seems Posen gravitates toward old Hollywood-style muses such as Karen Elson and Dita von Teese - women of a certain age who can appreciate the lines and curves created by a sweeping swath of taffeta or duchesse satin. These are ball gowns fit for an empress, not a fairytale princess. I would twirl until I became dizzy if I were lucky enough to wear one.

May 7, 2014 5:41:00 AM | fashion

04/14/2014

Isn't it Romantic? {Brilliant Earth Diamonds}

Isn't it Romantic? by zaftigfashion featuring black slingback shoes

When my husband and I got engaged, it was the most wonderful night of my life, full of romance, happiness and laughter. When the folks at Brilliant Earth asked me to style a look showcasing my favorite ring from their ethically-sourced diamond engagement ring collection, it brought back so many memories of my own special night!

While all diamonds are lovely, I prefer square stones such as this cushion cut beauty - the Felicity ring in platinum. I think the cut of this diamond really highlights the inner fire and color of this most precious of stones, and the halo setting is timeless! The lush vintage cocktail dress, simple clutch and shoes complement the classic beauty of this perfect ring. Any girl would be lucky to receive something so lovely.

Which shape of stone and setting do you prefer? Are you an elegant solitaire girl, or do you prefer accent stones surrounding your central stone?

If you are deciding on your style of engagement ring, or just love looking at pretty jewelry, check out Brilliant Earth. You can even design your own ring with their easy tools and 0% financing. Most importantly, you can rest easy knowing their conflict-free diamonds come from safe and environmentally conscientious mining practices.

I hope your once-in-a-lifetime ring is everything you've wished for!

*This post is a collaboration between myself and Brilliant Earth. All opinions are my own.

Apr 14, 2014 5:50:00 AM | fashion

04/11/2014

Put Your Records On {Outfit}

One of my favorite ways to relax on the weekend is to play my vintage record collection. I purchased my little Crosley record player last year, and have been curating records from flea markets and thrift stores to build a library of music I enjoy.

There's just something about the crackle of a needle on vinyl that can't be replaced. I grew up listening to records and 8-tracks, and I'm happy that the nostalgia movement has reignited an interest in the golden era of music. I love knowing that young people are playing the sounds of Doris Day and Dean Martin in their homes. Vintage music is entertaining - the lyrics can sometimes be blunt and even shocking!

It may take a little more time and be a little inconvenient to flip to the B-side. But the payoff is worth it!

Also, I got a new camera! My husband gifted me with a new Canon 70D. This is the first real photo set I've shot with it. One of the nicest features is the mobile remote app - allowing me to frame and focus my tripod shots with my iphone. This is so nice - I don't have to take 200 shots to get 10 good ones anymore! Also, it opens the door to more creativity. I want to tell a story with my pictures, instead of just taking random outfit photos, and this new camera is going to be a huge help with that. It also has a more sensitive sensor and wider ISO range, which will help with my learning process in night time photography - something I'm very excited about.

I'm lucky that my husband gets my creative drive. I'd much rather have camera gear than jewelry!

Skirt {ModCloth - old}

Shirt {Vintage - thrifted}

Shoes {Target - old}

Scarf in Hair {Vintage Vera Neumann - thrifted}

Jewelry {Baublebar - sold out}

Belt {Target - they have this belt every season, in multiple colors!}

Apr 11, 2014 5:48:00 AM | fashion, photography

04/04/2014

Wishful Thinking {Outfit}

Did you ever pluck the petals of a daisy when you were young? You know, using the petals of the flower as a kind of divination tool or magic 8-ball? I used to sit outside in the springtime and do the "he loves me/loves me not" thing quite often. If I didn't get the answer I wanted, I'd try again until I did!

It seems silly, and a little cruel now - picking defenseless flowers as a way to determine if a boy likes you. A lot of wishful thinking and girlish vanity goes into moments like this. It will be interesting to see if my daughter plays games like this as she gets older.

Speaking of wishful thinking, is spring ever going to get here? It's been a virtual roller-coaster of weather here in Missouri, and all of us are quite tired of it. This dress is my wish for warmer weather that sticks around, and fresh flowers brought forth by rain.

Dress {Vintage - Satterday}

Sweater {Vintage -Donna's Dress Shop}

Tights {Target}

Shoes {ModCloth - sold out. Similar}

Bag {Michael Kors}

Belt {Kohl's - old}

Rings {Target and H&M - old}

Apr 4, 2014 5:30:00 AM | fashion

03/28/2014

Among Thorns {Outfit}

Amongthornssunset4

I'm prone to rambling around the woods close to our house. This particular afternoon, I found a thicket which was the perfect frame for photos. It was dangerous-looking, being made of a particularly menacing locust tree with spikes almost two inches long. But, becoming a photographer has made me more of a risk-taker. A few scratches are worth getting that perfect shot, right?

These pictures make me think of the story of Snow White or Sleeping Beauty - or rather the evil queens in those tales - since I'm no longer a doe-eyed innocent. Did you ever think the villainesses in those fairytales were misunderstood? Or at least complex? Maybe because I've always felt a bit of a misfit, and people have sometimes mistaken my reticence for snobbery or worse, I do think about the storylines of those "evil" characters. I can't wait to see Maleficent - she's always been my favorite Disney villain. Here's hoping she gets some redemption.

I really want to have some fun with this area next winter. Maybe a full-on "villainess" post in the snow with stark, thorny limbs is in the future. Although I think snow is the last thing any of us wants to see right now!

Vest {Thrifted}

Blouse {Vintage/Thrifted}

Skirt {Kohl's - old}

Boots {Shoedazzle - old}

Rings {Charming Charlie}

Mar 28, 2014 6:27:00 AM | fashion

03/24/2014

Uniquely You with ModCloth and Wanelo: Beach Glamour

When ModCloth contacted me last week to participate in the Uniquely You campaign, a partnership with Wanelo, I was so excited. My assignment was to take an item of their choosing, and style it in a way that reflects my personal aesthetic. How fun!

They sent me a photo of the Beach Blanket Bingo swimsuit - which was fortuitous, because I own the bikini version of the same suit! I adore the retro style of this one-piece, and it's a great fit for many body types. Esther Williams swimsuits are some of the most well-constructed vintage inspired suits on the market. I own three, and they are all sturdy and flattering.

ModCloth offers a variety of swimwear styles for many different shapes and sizes, including plus. It's the best time of year to plan for your dream beach vacation, so check out their website to find your perfect look!

Here is the suite of accessories I styled to go with this gorgeous suit. {Click photo to shop this look with Wanelo!}

Clockwise from top right:

Heading Outside Sunglasses - Every girl needs a good pair of sunnies, and this tortoiseshell pair will protect your delicate eyes from the sun's harsh rays. White sand beaches are wonderful, but the glare can kill your eyes!
Q&A a Day 5 Year Journal - Instead of reading a bodice-ripping romance, why not write your own story while sunning? This fun journal gives you a unique question every day for five years. You can't say you have nothing to write about anymore!
Bright Lights Wedges - Wedges make the perfect beach shoe when you are wanting to keep some of your glam factor without sinking into the sand. These navy blue wedges are a great nautical-inspired complement to the swimsuit!
Lomography Konstruktor SLR Camera Kit - There's just nothing like pictures taken with a film camera - they're warm, evocative, and perfectly imperfect. I've wanted a Lomo for awhile. This would be a fun addition to your beach tote for capturing all of your screen siren moments.
Bookshelf Bandit Tote - A beach tote is a necessity for carrying everything from a bottle of water to your sunscreen. Show off your affinity for windswept moors and brooding heroes with this canvas bag.
Day to Daylight Hat - If you're a fair-skinned girl like me, you know that sunscreen usually isn't enough to prevent the "seasonal reddening of the nose" event. A hat is a must for me on the beach, especially if I can't find a sliver of shade. Look the part of a Fellini heroine in this wide-brimmed beauty.

Thanks, ModCloth for inviting me to be a part of the Uniquely You campaign! I look forward to seeing how the other bloggers chose to style their ModCloth products. Also, if you've never used Wanelo, it is one of the best tools out there to curate and arrange wishlists and plan your online shopping. You're only a couple clicks away from ordering the outfit you're dreaming about. Find me on Wanelo to see what I'm wishing for!

* This post is a collaboration with ModCloth and Wanelo. All opinions expressed are my own.

Mar 24, 2014 5:42:00 AM | fashion

03/21/2014

Old Standby {Outfit}

Don't you love outfits you don't have to think about? This is one of mine. It's a combination I can put on when the alarm doesn't go off, my daughter is having a meltdown, and I forget my morning coffee. It's a simple equation: a-line skirt, lightweight sweater, tights, boots and a hat and scarf for accessories. It's easy, but makes me feel a little bit less like a person of Wal-Mart.

I have had this scarf for a long time - each time I wear it, I get lots of comments. Probably because it has birds on it. Birds sell! It's the perfect weight and length for every season. As we get into this transitional weather, it's nice to have items that are easy to remove when it gets warm.

I've put myself on a shopping ban. My friend Jen of Life Unrefined is doing the same thing for Lent, and I think it's an excellent idea. Shopping is one of my favorite indulgences, but not buying "things" has helped me focus on what matters, as well as rediscover old favorites and new ways of combining them.

Last year, I gave up Twitter, and it helped me recognize how much time I was wasting on social media. While I am still pretty engaged, some of the lessons I learned from that fast helped me to better monitor how much screen time I indulge in. It was an eye-opener.

Have you given up anything for Lent? Do you think it helps you focus on your spiritual goals as well as your personal life?

Sweater {TJ Maxx - old}

Skirt {Topshop - old}

Tights {Target}

Hat {Stetson}

Scarf {Steve Madden - old}

Glasses {Derek Cardigan - similar}

Bag {Artisan leather - not available}

Boots {Shoedazzle - similar}

Mar 21, 2014 5:47:00 AM | fashion

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