Inspiration Board: Uncomplicated

Uncomplicated by albeelucky featuring hardware bags

 

I love my neutrals, I'm beige (ha ha). The best way for me to incorporate color into my life is by one color at a time. The whole blocking trend threw me for a loop and so took me out of my comfort zone. Besides it's easier to get dress in the morning when you know you'll just be wearing 2 colors all day. This berry color blouse is gorgeous and I think I've all ready posted the emerald version in my last inspiration board.

 

Living in So Cal. I'm all for wearing shorts in the fall. A pair of tights is a must, unless you don't mind the goosebumps on you legs all day, that's such a great look when your legs are turning blue and you have old ladies shaking their heads at you. I can say that with experience behind me. To balance out the shorts and kitty heels, I would wear a sweater to cover up my arms.  I like the classic look of this cardigan, something you can hold on to for a few seasons and be able to wear with your fave jeans, and midi skirts. 

I'm a large tote kind of gal. Anything I carry has to be large enough for anything and everything. If you are a mom or just take care of little ones, you know you need a large carry all. I always made fun of the moms that look like bag ladies with 3+ totes. I just love the "what's in my bag" and they only have 5 items in there. I wish that I can cut down like that. I'm in the large percentage of the population that carries the 12 pounds of stuff around. This one looks ideal, in the structure and sturdiness plus the extra pockets are always a bonus.

 

Lately my choice in costume jewelry has been leaning towards brass, nature inspired, and rings with large stones on them. I think these pieces are modern with a nod to vintage. I've recently picked up a brass locket that I've been wearing none stop. I'll share soon (cross my heart). 

 

Thanks for reading and leaving comments. I love and appreciate every one of them.

xo- Albee

Joshua Tree Gem Show

First weekend in October Joshua Tree, Ca. holds a little gem show. It's more like vendors that sell semi-precious stone jewelry, beads, geodes, and raw minerals. There's food, karaoke, and gold mining booths for the kids and adults that are kids at heart. It has been quite a few years since I've been down to the show. The first time Adam and I went to support his parents with a tractor parade that coincided with the gem show. I just love how rural Ca. can be if you don't mind driving a few hours away from the city.

This year, it was just a spare of the moment thing. Adam and I are in the process of purchasing some property up there and we were in town to get paperwork notarized. The couple we are buying from are friends of the family and suggested going to the show after business was taken care of. You don't have to twist my arm to check out a gem show.

Last time I went I had bought a little owl figurine that is cut out to show an owl within, I think it's made out of soap stone. When you go to place like that, you just never know what you'll stumble across. Of course, the ladies had gotten stuck at the first booth checking out the jewelry. They had cute necklaces and bracelets. I had my eye on these pretty quartz pendants.

I'm the type of girl that likes to look first. I won't jump on the very first thing I see. I know that a lot of sellers hate that, I just want the more bang for my buck. Adam's mom tried talking me into a bracelet, even offered to buy me one. I just couldn't accept that, I might find something else that I want more. 

As we were walking through, there was just so much to see. Luckily I remembered my camera on this outing.

 

Remember when Anthropology had agate stone coasters? I so wanted those, I shouldn't have passed up buying a few now-but I did. I just wasn't in a spending mood. Do you know what I really want? Geode bookends. I think that it's a wonderful way to bring nature indoors. 

Needless to say, I had a great time walking around and checking out all that the vendors had to offer. I walked away with out purchasing anything. I know, rare for me. Adam bought small drill bits, and a file (so manly, I know), and his mom bought a blue lapis bracelet. 

Now that we'll have our very own place to stay I think we'll be spending even more time out there. I can't wait to see more of the neighboring towns, checking out all the nooks and crannies, and discovering hidden treasures.

 

Outfit of the Day: Holding On

I finally hemmed up the jumpsuit from H&M last week. I had the seamstress bring it up 3", and I still have to wear them with my 5" Danys. I find that most of their pants and dresses are not made for the 5'1" and under set. Then again I am bigger then the normal 4'11" girl. At H&M I'm a size 8, comfortably, with allowance for my hips and bust. So if I really want slacks or a dress I have to watch where the waist fits and how long everything is- if it's worth the time and money to fix it for myself.

I just couldn't pass this jumpsuit up. It fit like a dream through the shoulders, and waist. I love the graphic impression of blossoms and the flutter sleeves of course. I'm all for easy cleaning and since it's poly I can just throw it in the wash and wear. 

Ha ha, I had to crop out some of my plants. I am so embarrassed, what is the opposite of having a green thumb? Rotten? Ha ha, I either water them too much or not enough. Thank goodness cacti can take my abuse.

This is not mine :) I found this flower still holding on to summer in my mom's courtyard. Last of the season, I just love the color.

Thanks for reading and I appreciate all the lovely comments you guys leave behind.

xo- Albee

Showing Some GH Love

I don't know how they (soap operas) do it, but they keep reeling me back in. I have been a fan of General Hospital off and on since I was 12. Some of my best memories are of my grandmother and I sitting down at 2 o'clock to catch the show in the afternoons. Adam is too funny saying that it's silly to watch those types of things, but when it's on he'll sit and watch it with me and ask me questions about what's going on. He secretly loves it, and reminds him of time spent with his mom and grandma. I think that's the hook. You end up growing up with these characters, and spending time watching with your own love ones. 

Through the years I've made friends bonding over episodes of GH. Sharing our common love and hatred over plots and characters. As much as we hate drama in our own lives we don't mind living vicariously through these characters. As other soaps have ended their long running series, I hope that GH goes on forever.

I have not been faithful in watching everyday, but I catch up when I can on Hulu. I use to have it recorded on my DVR, but I couldn't get to them in time and they ended up hogging space on my list. Where would I be with out this tech? Probably buying Soap Digest.

I had to share yesterday's episode with you. It's kind of a happy break before a storm. I've grown attach to these characters well-being and always root for them. Just like life, there are no happy endings, only happy moments.

If you missed yesterday's episode here it is linked up through Hulu. If you are new to the series, it will be fun to watch at least once to know why people love it so.

Outfit of the Day: Falling Skies

I should have been picking up my apartment today. Since starting my new job, even though it's part time I haven't found a routine yet. We are creatures of habit, some more than others ( pointing at myself). Things go to the wayside, namely my home. Adam and I are both Sagitarians. Meaning we leave things where we drop them, and that there is always something better and more important to do then clean/pick up. 

What did I do all day? Why catch up on blogs, FB, and retail sites :) Of course I need background noise and had Blood+ playing on Netflix. I dedicated a whooping hour to picking up, ha ha. At least that's some progress.

 

 

 

What I'm wearing today is the result of picking up. It's been clean laundry and new purchases laying about. The black tank with the embroidered cut out was purchased a few months back. I really need to invest in similar tops. I tend to grab the same one week after week. The sweater is from F21 and I believe they still have it for less than $13.00. I can tell you right now that I'll be wearing it a lot along with the dark brown one I have. I've worn them with maxi dresses a la Olson twin and with jeans like today. The jeans you've seen before. They are LEVI'S bootcut and were thrifted at my local Salvation. I really didn't want to wear my new Missoni scarf just yet. I chose to wear it like a turban because it was wrinkled anyway. Ha ha, of course I haven't switched up my handbag yet (H&M). 

Thanks for reading guys and dolls + for being so patient with my slow posting of outfits.

Always- Albee

Pick of the Day: My Girl is Red Hot

Blazers are here to stay. Wither they be cropped, long, striped, floral, buttoned, tied, or open they have become a basic. A basic to wear with jeans, slacks, skirts, dresses, and even shorts. What a better way to pull together a tee and jean combo. How many black blazers must you have? Every season has the color to have. We've seen blush, yellow, and navy. I've been holding out for something more eye catching. Patience has it's rewards. I've found the perfect one to add to my wardrobe.

Make your own animation

It's the cropped open front blazer from GoJane.com for $24.50. What makes it the ideal blazer for me? This red is the punch of color I need for my Fall wardrobe, complimenting all my neutrals. A fitted blazer is always flattering with my curves. With the oversize-boy cut blazers, I just look shorter and chubbier. I'm loving the soft curves, and shirred sleeve details. It's all about the details in this one. The topping to my sundae? It's hand washable, no need to send this one to the dry cleaners. Oooh, how I hate spending money there (shaking my fist). F.Y.I., the blazer is also sold in black. Can't wait to show you guys in a post.

Thanks for reading, much love and virtual hugs all around.- Albee

Loop of the Day: Lana Del Rey

O.k., I'm crushing so hard on Lana Del Rey. I can't wait to own her LP. You heard me right. I think I'll be purchasing vinyl. The sound could only enrich her vocals. Besides her amazing voice, I'm luving her style. Epitome of bombshell via Brigitte Bardot.

EOTD, Eye of the Day?

Ha ha, is there such a thing. I bet there is or how else did it sink into my conscience? I was inspired by a little article in my Allure magazine for a black/ grey smokey eye. I wanted to do a light wash of grey with no liner. I've noticed that if I'm too heavy handed with smokey eyes, it just looks like a hot mess. 

Here is the palette that I used and the application process:

click on image for a close up

For 5 bones, this palette was such a steal for as many color as you get. Using the shadows wet, you would get more of a color payoff. Since it was day, I just wanted something light and pretty.

Let me know what you think of this post? Is makeup application something you're interested on here? Thanks for reading.

xo-Albee

Movie of the Week: Red Riding Hood (2011)

Red Riding Hood 2011

PG-13

Were you like me and wondered how they were going to make a film out of a short fairytale. Some of the key pieces of this film that made it attractive are:

1. Catherine Hardwicke is the director.

I've been in love with her work since Thirteen with Evan Rachel Wood and Nikki Reed. I think Hardwicke learned a lot from directing the first Twilight film, but still is able to hold on to the intimacy of indie films. She is able to share teen angst and translate is well on screen.

2. Cast of actors.

The film has a wonderful cast of seasoned actors and a few new comers to keep your eye out for in the future. Gary Oldman was a key factor in getting the Bf to watch this movie. The story centers around young Valerie played by Amanda Seyfried. Billy Burke, Viginia Madsen, Lukas Haas, Max Irons, and Shiloh Fernandez will be familiar faces or soon well be for you. The cast breaths life in this retelling of an old story. 

3. The story.

Do people still read fairy tales and fables to their children? The enjoyment in watching this film stems from the familiarity of the story. It's a wonderful adult interpretation of the story well read or we were read to while growing up. The film is filled with different human dynamics, between young loves, deceitful adults, two-sided friendships, and fearful mob mentality.  

Like all good fairy tales, it isn't for the faint of heart. The film is rated PG-13 and appropriately so. The Bf wasn't surprised that at the end of watching the film, I said that I loved it and can't wait to own it for myself to add to our collection. 

Head Over Heels for a Pair of Docs

As a kid I dreamed of owning a pair of Dr.Martens. For the price, you know that there were only a hand full of girls that owned a pair. The ones that did were sooo cool and intimidating. They looked like they couldn't give a sh*t about anything. I so wanted to be one of them. The boots that I coveted were Ox Blood, the taller the better.

For some reason the newest versions are not the deep red that I loved from long ago.

I don't know about you, but it's hard for me to pull the trigger and buy myself a $100+ pair of shoes. I know that I should look at them as an investment, something to have forever. A few years back I did it, and bought a pair of black 1914 Triumph, with pink tartan lining. I love the idea that they are fashioned after a motorcycle boot and can be worn short with the lining being shown.

I can't tell you how ecstatic I felt that day receiving them in the post. They came with the standard black laces, and a black ribbon lace with pink tips. Since then I have worn them with jeans, leggings, skirts, dresses- everything!

The first couple of times I wore them, they weren't as comfortable as I thought they would be. Just like any boot, I needed a breaking in period. Now, they are amazingly dreamy and fit like a glove. I kid you not, they feel like they were made for me. How many times did it take to break in? I would say it by the 4th time I fell in love.

With any leather good, you have to take care of it if you want it to last a life time. Along with the boot I purchased the Dr.Martens Wonder Balm. That has been the best moisturizer, protectant I have ever used to date. I'm thinking of using it on all my leather, faux and real alike. 

This season Docs came out with different colors and finishes for the 1914 Triumph boot. There is not one that I don't like.

I'm not one for redundancy so I think I'll pass on purchasing the same boot, just in a different color. The boot that I am loving right this moment? The 1B99 Modern Classic in Peacock. I've been in admiration of this shade of blue for a few years now. Not many shoes come in this color and I totally regret not buying a pair of flats when I saw them. I'm certainly not going to let these babies pass me buy this time.

So it's official, I am addicted to Dr.Martens. Just like potato chips, I can't have just one. Adam called it, in saying that I would spend a chunk of my first paycheck on a pair of Docs. Sigh, at least I'll be able to wear them to work :)