Hello, Boots

Ruffian on the Roof

2012-02-26T10:17:00.000-08:00

Uniqlo blazer, misc. harem pants, Hanes tshirt, Glaze boots, Forever 21 purse + rings.

I want to thank my friend Anna of Anna de los Muertos for getting photos for me. It's really, REALLY useful to know
talented, arty people with the patience of a saint.
We had a Californian Adventure again -- the intention on paper was for office supplies (well, she
was there for office supplies, I was lured in with the promise of curry and macaroons) and later a
stop at Meltdown Comics for some stand-up, performance and good times.

One thing that I absolutely love is good vandalism. I don't mean I support the idea, but some of
the art that comes out of it is absolutely museum quality in my mind. I like masses of stickers stuck
to benches and street signs because they represent a universal desire to be noticed -- all different
people posting their stickers, advertisements of either their business or personality on a surface,
hoping for some notice.

I dunno -- it's illegal, it's desperate, and I love the way it looks.

Be Careful, Or You'll Go Cross-Eyed.

2012-02-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

Armani shirt, Forever 21 rings, misc. shearling jacket, neon leggings.

Thank you to my photographer for being so patient. This was a really awkward session --
drunk people staggering and giggling hysterically in the background, cold wind, traffic, the lot.
There were an absurd number of hobos out tonight and yet no one hollered at me, for once, which
was a sort of nice break.

My leggings got a supah gangstah nod of approval, though. I'm always open to that subtle, upwards jerk
of a chin that validates my sometimes questionable decisions.

I know I've been away nearly a month, but tough, that's school life.

(When I say "tough," I mean for me.)

I've also been formulating my sartorial strategy for spring, and I'm pleased to announce it's...
basically just neon. Not sure a color family constitutes a strategy.

Has anyone else noticed that, according to my posts, I only ever go outside at night? I'm a vampire,
or maybe an alcoholic, or maybe an insomniac,or maybe a social recluse, but hopefully you'd never guess
that from my photos.

Guest Blog Post: Style Pilot

2012-02-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I know I've been away for a while due to school and work, but I've also been preparing for this very special collaboration
post with http://stylepilot.cok.uk, a "personal style engine for men." Personally, I'm in love with their website --
it tailors wardrobe and outfit suggestions to each user's body type and coloring for easy fashion.

I created a profile for myself in spite of being female (sorry, guys,) and used the advice to put together this androgynous look.
Their advice is sound for both men AND women, and I highly suggest you check out their website, Style Pilot if you've ever found yourself at
a loss for what to wear. Androgynous looks are in for Spring, you won't regret it!

Read below for great tips on buying clothes for both men and women!

How To Buy Fashionable Clothes For Both Sexes

Looking fashionable and feeling confident is a state we all aspire to. Sometimes buying fashionable, great looking clothes can be a daunting task. We’re going to look at how to make it easier.

What’s In?

The easiest and quickest way to check out this season’s most up to date clothes is by checking out the internet and style magazines. This is a great way to get up to speed with latest trends without having to actually take a trip to the shops. Only use this to get initial ideas about current styles and whether there’s a look out there you feel is suited to you individually. Individual outfits and items will usually underwhelm when you see them in reality against the magazine or online image. Early research can clarify key colour trends and cuts this season, giving you a head start before hitting the shops.

Know your limits

It’s great knowing what you’re looking for and which pieces are going to define your look this season. You also need to hit the shops with your budget clear in your mind. Not having a budget for your wardrobe predetermined can lead to erroneous overspending which you may regret later. Don’t overstretch yourself.

There are fantastic pieces available at competitive prices at all levels of the fashion market. Take advantage of what the stores offer you. Stores’ window displays are updated weekly to be dressed in the latest fashions. Knowledgeable store teams are also a great source of information and advice. They are often dressed in the store’s clothes too, so you can get a preview of what it looks like before hitting the fitting room.

Is it you?

As great as a trip to the shops and spending money on clothes is, keep yourself in mind at all times. Once you’ve put your outfit together take a look at yourself and ask how you feel. Being honest with yourself, if you don’t feel great, confident and ready to wow, then this probably isn’t the fashion for you.

Being fashionable and stylish is, after all, only partially about the clothes. If you don’t feel comfortable with a look, it’s very likely to be easily noticeable.

Help is at hand

If you’re not sure about what look you want and how you can look great, an outfit builder can help. Online outfit builders operate like a personal stylist. Tell the outfit builder your height and body shape as well as hair, eye colours and skin tone, and clothes specific for your features are highlighted to you.

Let the outfit builder know your budget, style you’re looking for and any preferred brands, and allow it to deliver a truly personal style experience for you. Use an outfit builder to look fashionable and always on trend.

About Stylepilot

Style Pilot is an online start-up designed exclusively for men to navigate fashion online and to discover which styles and items to purchase. Style Pilot is effectively an online personal stylist dedicated to men's fashion.

February's Keyword is Sincerity

2012-01-29T01:38:00.000-08:00

Self made body harness, Forever 21 hat, Jeffery Campbell boots.

Busy busy busy. I feel how I look, and if that doesn't clarify my current state for you, I'm feeling
a bit...askew. When I'm not studying I'm wandering around in front of convenience stores or loitering
in areas I'm not technically supposed to. I'm only a teen for a few more months, I need to get this badassery
out of my system. You know how it is.

I made a body harness; that turned out nice. Again, keeping the rib theme going from my t-shirt project.

Oh, also just briefly mentioning, you can now Follow my blog with Bloglovin

if you so wish. By which I mean, "you definitely should."

I Thought You Were from Holland

2012-01-19T22:24:00.000-08:00

Self made ribcage tshirt, self made saffron corduroy shorts, Glaze boots.

Bored of your boots? Switch the laces and viola, good as new. I've been struggling with an urge to purchase
those gorgeous new Hellbound boots by Unif, but I'm trying to resist the urge at least until my birthday.

An old man in front of a liquor store shouted that he liked my outfit. For a moment I was almost disturbed,
but I reminded myself that old people weren't always old.
Maybe he wasn't being sarcastic -- maybe at one point fifty years ago he had long, moppy hair and listened to
rock and roll and wore tight pants that distressed his parents. Maybe at one point he looked more like a
member of The Who and less like a member of the local AA chapter.

So I smiled and said thanks, believing he'd meant it.

Freezing in Santa Monica

2012-01-18T03:21:00.000-08:00

Gap men's sweater, Forever 21 hat+necklace, Jeffrey Campbell Litas.

I've been up to my ears in homework and stressed as hell, so I've been comforting myself with this thrifted
sweater and lots of coffee.
I've said before and I'll say again -- men's clothes are made better than women's. This sweater is
a good medium weight made of ever-so-slightly scratchy wool with a nice crew neck and rolled hems.
If I were to summarize it in one word...reliable. Works with everything, appropriate for all occasions,
cheap and long enough to double as mittens. Yup.

Getting these pictures was pretty difficult because, sad yet typical as this is, my impossible whiteness
reflected too much flash and made it impossible for my camera to focus and capture my face. Thanks to
my photographer friend for being so nice and patient.

Also, a warm welcome back to my poor old Litas! I've missed you, old friend.

So. Californian Adventures

2012-01-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

Self made ribcage tshirt + hat, misc. jeans + leather jacket, Forever 21 bracelet + spike ring, American Indian turquoise ring, H&M sunglasses, T.U.K. creepers.

I've had some friends down to LA recently and it was an absolute blast. I sometimes forget living in CA
how many great places there are to go here. I guess because I know it'll always be there I never
take advantage of the city as much as I should.

This t-shirt was the result of needing casual clothes very urgently. I slapped it together in about
an hour and a half just for the occasion of my friend's visit. I would have preferred this look
with mid-length cutoffs, combat boots and fishnets, but jeans and creepers make for a very serviceable alternative.

Fever Dreams

2012-01-11T00:50:00.000-08:00

Thrifted Levis jacket, misc. silk pants, self made bleached shirt, Glaze boots, Forever 21 rings+bag, misc. bandana.

I've been to a lot of shiny places lately. Places full of people and seizure-inducing lighting and pounding noise.
This look is meant to be a bit of an 80s throwback.
Someone told me I looked like a member of an 80s hair metal band. I said, "There's worse things I
could look like," and the person I was talking to replied, "No, there isn't."
The trouble is, I can't remember if it was a dream or not.
I've been sick for the past week (at times feverishly, pass-out-on-the-table-at-work sick,)
so it's entirely possible this was a fever dream.
After all, those are the best ones.

New Year's Day: Short Black Nails

2012-01-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

Charlotte Russe flannel, self-made high wasted pants, Hanes mens t-shirt, self-made hat, TUK creepers, Forever 21 bracelet, H&M sunglasses.

As you can see, I'm looking a bit rough. I crashed at my friend Anna's, of Anna De Los Muertos, after a party
and then made my way to downtown LA for round two...in the daylight, in the same clothes and makeup from the
night before. Even so, it was a wonderful New Years, and I got to enjoy this quirky mural as well.

Looking a mess is oddly liberating because you never have to be careful of messing yourself up.
It's that strange "nothing-to-lose-and-everything-to-gain" principle.

You should have a look at Anna's website here for great reviews and quality blog postings,
as well as the occasional lovely photograph.

I believe I've said it once, but I'll say it once more: Happy New Year to everybody.

New Year's Eve Section One: Domestic

2012-01-01T22:58:00.000-08:00

Thrifted choli, misc. skirt, Glaze boots, Forever 21+Trashy Vintage rings, Candies bracelet.

My new year's eve came in two parts -- the fancy part, pictured here, and the fun part, where I sat on
chicken wire and wore the same t-shirt for 41 hours. Endurance is key.

Either way, it's been a special New Year's weekend this year. Happy new year to
everyone who reads this blog -- I'm incredibly grateful to each and every person -- and stay healthy and happy in 2012!

This Time Will Be Different

2011-12-31T00:53:00.000-08:00

It's just almost 2012.

I realized that it's literally been almost 6 months since I've worn a pair of jeans. I don't like having my knees squeezed or my hips pinched.
Apparently, however, I still own some.

Lady Beater

2011-12-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

Self made hat, Charlotte Russe fur vest, Glaze boots, misc. cargo pants, misc. beater, Forever 21 bag+ rings, Trashy Vintage rings, H&M Sunglasses.

I get the feeling if I were a man I'd go one of two ways -- suits and wingtips, every single day, or wife beaters, designer jeans and Gatsby products, every day.
I'm a person who needs to put in a lot of effort, so I am fascinated by the appearance of effortlessness, probably because it's unachievable for me.

Either way I'd probably look like a douche so it's good that I'm female.

This shoot was a bit awkward to do and I feel like it shows in the photos, but overall I'm happy.
Lately the light has been gorgeous, and luckily the weather accommodates ridiculous getups
like fur vests and sleeveless wife beaters. God bless L.A.

These cargo pants were in a box of literally all the clothes I owned when I was 13.
I owned two pairs of pants, five t-shirts and one pair of sneakers.
Looking at how things have changed I'm proud of myself for turning my slovenly teenage self around.
Honestly, it doesn't hurt my ego that these pants are so large I have to pin them to keep them on either.

A Whole Different Animal

2011-12-24T20:36:00.000-08:00

Thrifted sweater+jeans, Dolce Vita heels, Forever 21 bag+ bracelet, Trashy Vintage rings, fox fur collar.

Merry Christmas everyone! This is my first Christmas with this blog, and I'm extremely grateful to every singe one of my readers.
I hope we have a great year ahead.

I inherited that collar from my grandmother. I don't wear it too much because it's delicate
and a pretty strong statement piece which requires careful styling, but I love it because reminds
me of my grandmother whom I didn't see very much before she passed away.
If she were alive I'm sure she'd get a kick out of my blog.

Everybody stay safe, have fun and take care during the holidays!

Oyaji Sweater

2011-12-22T15:16:00.000-08:00

Thrifted sweater, self made red shorts, Forever 21 hat+bag, Glaze boots, Trashy Vintage rings.

It's this cold and yet I can't force myself to wear pants. Thank God I live in California.

It's taking most of my willpower not to wear this sweater every day, everywhere, with just about anything.
It's got a few names -- old man sweater, oyaji sweater, jiji sweater, security sweater, or (mostly from other people) "that ugly thing."
Oyaji sweater doesn't judge that I have hips or that my arms are too short to fill the sleeves.
It just hides my problem areas and shields me from the cold.
I think it's nice to have a piece that is forgiving and flexible, like a good friend.

I don't care about this sweater's pre-Goodwill past, I'm sure we'll have a happy future looking sloppy together. :D

On a strange note, I found out recently that I like mornings, I just don't like getting up in time to enjoy them. No amount of coffee in the world will fix this problem.

Reject You For a Rush

2011-12-18T02:41:00.000-08:00

Thrifted silk dress, misc. shearling jacket, self-made spike headband, Forever 21 purse+necklace, Jeffrey Campbell litas.

This dress is amazing -- it's extremely tailored, yet it fits absolutely perfectly.
It's more than a bit too cold to wear this now, but I'm looking forward to a long, happy relationship with this piece.
Who knows? Maybe a fur coat will make this wearable for NYE or something.

That aside, this is an outfit of personal standards -- 6 inch heels, leather, metal, spikes, zippers; basically, everything that makes me a lady.

I don't have to explain again how much I love rooftops. This parking garage roof was freezing, deserted and wet, probably all consequences of the rain.

Do I look a bit dazed? A bit confused? I am rarely the first and almost always the latter.

Putting Out the Fires

2011-12-16T14:51:00.001-08:00

Misc. abstract print pants, VS cashmere scarf, TUK creepers, Forever 21 bag, bleached Express shirt, misc. shearling jacket.

A security guard came to find me on the roof. He said, "I got a call that there was a hobo on the roof. I take it that's you."
I handed him a business card and explained that I was a blogger, not a hobo. He took the card, nodded, and rode away on his bicycle.
I've been called many things in my life, including a hobo, but I've never actually had anyone call a mall cop on me before.
Between that and staying up 43 hours straight, I feel like I've achieved a level of "legit" shared only by 15 year-olds passing around used cigarettes in a dark parking lot.

Been Many People

2011-12-12T23:07:00.000-08:00

I saw a weird Japanese film with a robot.

The robot criticized Hans Christian Anderson's "The Little Mermaid" because the main character forced herself into an environment

in which she　couldn't survive without changing drastically, all to impress another person.

After watching that film, I wonder if sometimes I'm the little mermaid. I guess everyone is. I think everybody has multiple personalities to fit

different environments. Like wearing a scuba suit to survive underwater, people change their personalities to survive in different environments.

The trouble is, lately I feel like my extra personalities aren't fitting as well as they used to.

My scuba suit is too tight, but I won't make it without fins, just like the little mermaid wouldn't have made it without legs.

The trouble is, no one is willing to jump into the ocean and live on the little mermaid's terms either.

自分が自分のままでいられる場所がみつけたいなあ。。。

Radioactive

2011-12-10T01:18:00.000-08:00

Thrifted oversize sweater, Rider by Lee cutoffs, Glaze boots, Guess necklace, Trashy Vintage+Indian rings, Forever 21 bag, H&M sunglasses.

There are cars everywhere, even in the middle of nowhere. I went out for air today in uncharacteristically sloppy attire, but when you're meandering down the road past the point of sidewalks I guess it doesn't matter much. No one's judging, and if they are they'll surely forget soon enough.

We're in a Mess

2011-12-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

Uruguayan 100% wool jacket, misc. men's jeans, self made silk mullet shirt, Shoeone boots, Forever 21 bag, H&M glasses.

Days are just barely warm enough and evenings are freezing cold, which means I'm forced to do a lot of layering.
It also means I'm gradually being forced to accept that it's probably time for me and my shorts to spend some time apart.
I made this silk mullet shirt/dress when I had an interview at FIDM. The fabric has a nice weight,The usual thing to do would be to pair it with tights
or leggings, but my inner dandy demanded wool jackets and men's pants.

It's finally Winter enough to justify things like eating waffles for lunch, wearing fur and refusing to go outside.
I'm going to be incredibly busy even over Winter break, but in the unlikely scenario that I have extra time to kill I've bought several magazines and diet hot chocolate.

Muzzy Monster

2011-12-07T01:15:00.000-08:00

Self made shaggy fur coat, Levis shorts, misc. shirt, Shoeone boots, self made spike headband, Forever 21 rings.

This jacket came out fantastic -- I made it in about five hours.

Since the lining needed to be attached manually it was pretty labor-intensive, but I love the result.

It's warm, and best of all incredibly austere. Simple lines, no collar, no embellishments -- just basic, synthetic, square perfection.

I like cities. I hated them when I was younger, but now I find that I prefer them. Anonymity, medium-loud buzz of traffic, occasional sirens, never-ending stream of people and assured proximity to vending machines and pay phones are altogether oddly comforting. I've just finished this quarter and I'm dying to go to a different city. Nowhere in particular -- just somewhere else.

T o n i g h t

2011-12-03T21:00:00.000-08:00

Dockers denim shirt, misc. leggings, vintage Pelle Cuir fringe jacket, Shoeone harness boots, Forever 21 rings, fur purse.

I spent the day in downtown LA. I had just a few minutes on a hotel roof to shoot these, and I was lucky to hit golden hour downtown.

I can't say I'm glad of pollution (actually it was a surprisingly clear day thanks to the recent high winds) but it filters light so perfectly that I can't help but be glad of it.

I picked up this leather jacket yesterday while thrifting, and it's an absolute beauty. 100% real leather, practically brand-new condition, and fits like a glove.

I don't care how many people tell me I'm gradually turning into Cher; I am going to wear this to death.

Oh, and...

Creep

2011-12-03T00:18:00.000-08:00

Self made stud shorts, Hanes cotton t-shirt, misc. jacket, Charlotte Russe tights, Tuk creepers, Trashy Vintage thumb ring, Forever 21 rings, purse, self-made hat.

Yup, I'm rebelling against my own doctrine. Two posts in a row with flat shoes -- I got the most horrid blister from these, just proving that unless I'm on stilts I'm no good. I had a great time doing this photo set though -- I pretty much popped my headphones in and bounced around until I had my images.

Just as I stood at the corner today a literal truckfull of attractive young Asians pulled up right in front of the curb. They stared at me; I tried to stare them down but looked away. They laughed and drove off. I hope it doesn't mean anything.

Takahashi Yu, you've been in my head too long today.

Landing, Stepping, Jumping, Jumper

2011-11-30T22:22:00.000-08:00

Anne Taylor Loft sweater, misc. cargo pants, Doc Martens boots, Mudd necklace, Forever 21 rings/fur bag/ cuff, misc. hat.

That runway show did me some good -- it reminded me of an aesthetic I grew through my teens on and sort of avoided for the past two years. A kind of Nylon Japan/Popsister/Egg/Capsule Jumper feeling. It feels great to do something outside of my personal norm, and I think heading into winter I'll be doing a lot more coordis like this.

I never wear flat shoes, so this was a bit of a special occasion. It's an absolute crime that these boots don't get worn more often.

God bless BB cream.

I love grubby streets. I like rooftops and alleys and graffiti and cigarette butts on the pavement and scaffolding. Is that weird? Maybe.

Chubby Bunny x SPANK! Gallery Event

2011-11-26T01:04:00.000-08:00

YES, it's taken a week but I'm finally getting my post for the Chubby Bunny x SPANK! gallery opening/runway show event up. On the bright side, a LOT of people showed up -- I heard from one of the curators that about 270 people showed up on opening night. Sadly, that meant I wasn't able to get a good enough spot for the runway show to get pictures, but the rest of the party and gallery were good fun.

I was able to manage some photos after the runway show. The girl with the green bangs is Tavuchi, the owner of Spank! and silly twitter monster.

I couldn't get the artist's name on this one, which is a shame as it was one of the best ones in the gallery. Please email helloboots.blog@gmail.com if you know!

Artwork by Chikuwaemil

In fact, compliance with fire code meant a lot of us ( me and my friend included) were left outside in the rain waiting for admission for over an hour. I was surprised at how small the venue was when the organizers knew roughly how many people would show up, but for the rest of the exhibit (running through December 23rd)it was a good venue. In keeping with the theme of "American 80s in Japan," the dj kept a steady flow of classic 80s song remixes going well into the night.

I must admit, though, that when I looked around I felt like I was trapped in Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's "Pon Pon Pon." The event kept true to it's sponsers' roots -- with such brands as Sugar Pill and Tokyofashion.com sponsoring, the whole event had a very distinct feel, as did the pieces in the runway show and the popup shop. Succinctly put, it fell right between American 80s, Ganguro 90s and Lolita 2000s. Although it was a gallery exhibit opening, the event managed to avoid pretension and enjoy itself.

Artwork by Mizna Wada

Artwork by Chikuwaemil on left and Inoha Mayumi on right.

In Time Spent Waiting For the Sun

2011-11-18T17:48:00.000-08:00

Self made saffron muffler, misc. denim shirt, misc. grey sweater, Mossimo leggings, Shoeone boots, Forever 21 purse.

I made this muffler in about seven hours. I've been very stressed with midterms ending and the threat of holidays and finals looming, so I've been channeling my nervous energy into knitting things. I figured that was more productive than eating.

This is 100% garter stitched; a very simple piece that speaks for itself because of its striking color -- just what I needed to brighten this cloudy day.

These shots were taken on the roof of a parking garage. It was absolutely deserted, flat, windy, and lovely.

^ Does this look brown to you? It's supposed to, but sometimes it goes eggplant-looking and I get confused.

Singles Magazine KR

2011-11-18T01:58:00.000-08:00

Images courtesy of Singles Korea via Soompi.

This photoshoot is so so perfect I can't put it into words! I think it has a lot to do with Yoobin having a hand in selecting the concept. There's a good mix of shapes and fabric textures -- looks like synthetic, fur, silk and maybe leather? I would wear every single one of these items. I'm glad to see Yoobin doing something up-market and solo, and as always, a huge appreciative round of applause for successfully blonde Asians.

Oh, and as the owner of this blog, I salute your good taste in boots.

They Say That It's Everything

2011-11-13T01:55:00.000-08:00

Self-made leather hardware vest, misc. Korean flannel shirt, Vera Wang leggings, Jeffrey Campbell distressed leather Litas, Forever 21 Rings.

Flannel holds onto smells like nothing I've ever seen. If I go to a coffee shop, I will smell like ground beans and Windex for hours and hours. Tonight I went to a benefit dinner, and I can still smell the tobacco, mexican food and beer in my shirt. Flannel forgets eventually, but it holds on for an awfully long time.

Sorry if this post is a bit weird -- I've been having an odd time lately. I guess stasis is a natural thing to want, but at the same time a very unnatural thing.

Rainy Days Never Stays

2011-11-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

Vera Wang motorcycle pants, Hanes cotton tee, Glaze boots, self-made scarf, misc. shearling jacket, Forever 21 rings.

I've replaced my camera -- I used to use a 5 megapixel, 2007 model Kodak point-and-shoot. Now I'm using a Sony Cybershot Hx9 camera with 16.8 megapixels. It's not a DSLR, but I determined that I am too unskilled for and not in enough need of one. This camera has the same functions of a DSLR for several hundred less, AND it's easier to use. I highly recommend it -- I've been running around playing with the macro setting everywhere. Unfortunately, my blog doesn't support these pictures in hi-def unless I pay for a domain name, so you can't see just how spectacular the image quality really is.

I'm sorry to look so unimpressed in all these pictures, but I was back behind the bins so I'd feel weird smiling like a fool. You'd feel weird seeing it too, trust me.

I also redyed my poor, faded hair, so it's back to being sufficiently red. It came out a bit more burgundy this time, but taking the coming holidays and the looming threat of winter into consideration I find that much more appropriate.

Late Night in 1994

2011-11-05T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hanes orange sweatshirt, self-made lace flares, Shoeone boots, Forever 21 hat+spike ring, Charlotte Russe belt as bracelet.

This is a mini and belated Halloween post. I did run my errands dressed like that, and for once I wasn't the most strangely dressed person on a Monday morning.

A half-drunk man at 7-Eleven asked me if I was Barbara Streisand. I can see it with the pants, but I'm pretty sure I don't remember Babs sporting a fleuro orange sweatshirt.

....yeah, not quite. Image credit.

Image credit: Tumblr

Image credit: Discover Los Angeles and Amber Lunsford.

I'm replacing my camera tomorrow if all goes well -- months of saving will finally be rewarded.

Umbrella-Top-Hat

2011-10-26T03:06:00.000-07:00

Vintage 80s Norton McNaughton velvet jacket, self made high-waisted pants, Forever 21 wide brim felt hat/fur bag, Shoeone boots.

Apparently velvet is going to be huge for FW '11. While velvet has never been my fabric of choice, I like this jacket a lot for it's shoulder pads, lack of collar, simple buttons and the complete absence of embellishments on the sleeves. While the cut may be simple, the pattern speaks for itself. I added a hat wide enough to function as an umbrella just in case it rained.

Disappointingly, just like the $400 I was told would be paid back in 2009, the rain turned out to be an unfulfilled promise.

A few days ago a child ran up behind me in a market, pet my purse and scuttled away. I had an almost identical incident when I was about 7 with a bag that doubled as a stuffed Shetland collie...the more things change...

Lastly, of late I've been eating like a queen on microwavable food. Nomenclature plays a large part though -- I could say I had a raw spinach salad with a salmon fillet and balsamic vinaigrette, or I could be honest and say I microwaved some frozen fish and tossed it into a bowl with months-expired dressing and whatever greens are still edible.

See what I did there? No? Good. I maintain the illusion of being fabulous.

Youth Bucket

2011-10-23T03:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was standing in a line on Sunset Strip when a cab driver pulled right up beside me in a van. I nearly choked -- he had the roundest head, the droopiest eyes, the saddest mouth and a most extraordinarily rotund belly. I almost exclaimed out loud, "Good Lord, it's Alfred Hitchcock driving a van," but when I looked around I realized I was surrounded by people who probably didn't even know who Hitchcock was. We were in line for a rock concert. Classic cinema was probably the furthest thing from their minds -- and should've been from mine as well, I reckon.

It seems like I'm always out of step with whatever group I find myself in -- which is fine -- but I'm always one or two beats off. I wonder if I'll ever find a way to reconcile a night of headbanging with Hitchcock.

Pink Yellow Green Ash Brown

2011-10-20T00:37:00.000-07:00

Thrifted crochet fringe top, Levi's denim cutoffs, Shoeone platform boots, Forever 21 hat, antique jade necklace, misc. American Indian ring, unknown fur bag.

I told myself I would stop being a hippie when Summer ended and start being more of a 90s grunge child. Apparently my aesthetic, like far-right old people and the soda machine at the library, is resistant to change.

I am usually on the fence about crochet but never about fringe, which explains the acquisition of this somewhat awkward top. I can't tell if it's too big or too small; maybe my shoulders are too wide. Maybe my awkwardness is purely personal rather than sartorial? Oh dear.

That fur bag was quite a purchase -- I bought it half off in August (not really the season for fur anything, explaining the markdown) and was told immediately upon showing it to my family that it was obviously discounted because it was ugly. Since then it has garnered a good deal of attention, but more the kind usually reserved for ventriloquist dolls and other dubiously inanimate objects.

It's been a Superfly kind of a season.

Synthetic Woolen Skeins

2011-10-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

Levis high-waist cutoffs, misc. grey tank, self-made off-white sweater, Indian hammered silver bangles, American Indian turquoise ring, Trashy Vintage knuckle rings, Forever 21 felt hat, Jeffrey Campbell Litas.

Finally the sweater is done! I started knitting this back in August and everyone told me it was absurd to knit in the dead of Summer. However, a laminated sign in JoAnn's fabric reminding knitters to "get busy before the holiday season!" vindicated my perhaps premature start on this project. If I've been away from the internet some, this is why -- I've been making things, and what a lovely thing it turned out to be, if I do say so myself. I'm heaps proud of this.

The shape and drape of this sweater was modeled after the kimono trend we saw during SS11. The collar and baggyness in the sleeves is meant to be evocative of a happi coat.

The sweater is surprisingly simple -- it is 100% garter stitched. I originally got started making the border with a stockinette stitch, but it began rolling itself like a fat pug on a plush carpeted floor, so I was forced to switch back to basics.

As you might notice, there is a child reflected in the chrome of my ring. He wasn't there when I was taking these photos. While an invisible child isn't all that alarming, I find myself both perplexed and perturbed. Should I be?

Cold Pointy Domestic Bits

2011-10-14T02:26:00.000-07:00

Self made saffron corduroy shorts, thrifted crochet sweatshirt, misc. Chinese thigh highs, Forever 21 ring, Glaze boots (not pictured.)

I wasn't even looking for this sweatshirt when I found it, but I'm glad I did because it's a perfect transitional piece. Speaking of, SoCal seems to have meteorologically regressed and dumped us somewhere back in August, which is why I'm sitting on the floor in front of the refrigerator drinking milk from a carton like a savage.

Lemonale ala W.C. Fields. No it isn't. Yes it is. Now it's milk ala Roger Sterling. What?

It amazes me how many people think their kitchens are too small. Mine is that wide across the whole way -- not even as wide as my legs are long, apparently. If you know me you'll know my legs are about as long as two magic markers conjoined at the cap, which is insufficient breadth for a kitchen. Not that I'm complaining, it suits me just fine; I just find it funny how many people go on house hunting shows to bemoan their insufficient cooking space two minutes before making a trite joke about how all they can use is a microwave.

My own kitchen is littered with vaguely frightening ceramics made circa the 50s. I don't know why they all have Kewpie eyes.

Night People

2011-10-12T02:15:00.000-07:00

Self made palazzo pants, misc. cotton shirt, Forever 21 hat/necklace/purse, Glaze boots, Trashy Vintage knuckle rings, Pakistani bracelet.

I made these pants today 20 minutes before going out. Don't have something to wear? Make something; not that that's a problem I often find myself with...

They are the the result of a number of recent influences coming to a head, including Red Dead Redemption, an obsession with a pair of silk Zara trousers I've seen on both Rumi Neely and Sandra Hagelstam, seasonably inappropriate heat and a general distaste for pants (but not in a Louis Vuitton ss12 sort of a way. )

I see lots of neon signs in Los Angeles that never seem to be turned on, even in the dark. Maybe my timing is just off and I never get to see them...it's really a shame, seeing as a darkened neon sign is about as useful as a steak knife to a person drinking consommé.

Starving Artist

2011-10-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

Thrifted Levi's mens jeans, Jones New York blazer, self-made beanie, misc. white burnout tee, taupe suede boots, misc. pyramid ring.

An eccentric but friendly artist who loiters in front of a Starbucks in Beverly Hills stopped me on my way out. He told me, "You've got a vibe going; you've got swagger!"

I didn't know what to say back, so I thanked him awkwardly and said that was the best news I'd heard all day. Then I left.

I fear the appropriate response might've been, "You too," but I failed to deliver it. Luckily he's perennially jolly and didn't mind.

I am developing a surprisingly good rapport with the street people of Beverly Hills. First the hobo, now this.

Autumn Incoming

2011-10-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Russe cropped sweater, misc. harem pants, grey tank, Soda wedges, F21 spike ring, unknown brand scorpion ring, self made elephant necklace.

Today didn't go the way I expected it to. I failed to realize when I got dressed this morning that the drop crotch pants combined with the oversized sweater were going to simulate the experience of being a flying squirrel all day...gotta get some of that faint Fall breeze under my wings.

Is it a scorpion? Is it a lobster? Depends how sober you are.

Finally it's starting to feel and smell a bit of autumn in southern CA. The angle of the light is dramatically different (and dare I say, best)in October.
However, it seems like the seasonal changes make people wistful. A man stands against a stop sign across the street and just stares forward from afternoon to nightfall every day. I can't imagine what he's waiting for; at this point I don't think he knows what he's waiting for either.

Chinese College Town

2011-10-01T22:26:00.000-07:00

Self made real leather/denim hardware shorts, thrifted silk blouse, misc. black tights, Forever 21 hat, antique jade necklace, Jeffrey Campbell Litas.

Went down to FIDM today for the open house and had a fantastic time. Their Merchandising programs look pretty promising, except that I really don't have the money for tuition. Guess I'll have to be creative, like I was with my shorts.

Afterward my companion and I were feeling a bit peckish and popped down to China town for some food and quick blogshots. Possibly better than the whole college tour, I saw an old man with a Confucian beard, half-moon glasses and an ipod sitting on a bench. He was also fantastic.

Lumberjack

2011-10-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

Self made saffron corduroy shorts, thrifted Korean red flannel shirt, self made beanie, Charlotte Russe sunglasses, Charlotte Russe double belt worn as cuff, Forever 21 cuff, Shoeone Korean boots.

This photo is one of the more current ones. Yellow cords are a surprisingly versatile addition to my wardrobe, but in keeping with the hype about color blocking this whole year it's easiest to just throw them next to red or blue and call it a day. I've never enjoyed the texture much, but corduroy redeems itself by being easy to work with and comfy for fall.

Speaking of Fall, ever since the semester started I've been holed up at ^ this desk in the library nearly every day. Like the shorts, the desk is also very comfy. The bookcase behind the chair provides much needed privacy and keeps the draft at bay.

Harem

2011-09-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Thrifted silk animal print blouse, misc. harem pants, Jeffrey Campbell Litas, Forever 21 sunglasses, Indian hammered silver bangles, antique jade necklace.

Catching up posts. I'm enjoying the transitional weather wardrobe, although I'm struggling with the switch from hippie for summer to grunge for Fall/Winter.

Although these photos don't show it well, that silk blouse has a bit of mullet-shirt going on in the back. The sleeves never stay rolled and it never stays tied in the front; it just hangs lazily off the body, is 100% silk, and cost me less than $10. It's great as a shirt and even better in place of a sweater.

I know parents aren't supposed to have favorites, but....

I HAVE A BLOG

2011-09-30T02:56:00.000-07:00

Thrifted black chiffon shirt, Hanes mens tshirt, misc. grey sweater, Forever 21 hat, Jeffrey Campbell Litas, H&M Sunglasses.

I have a proper blog now instead of a tumblog. I'll try to keep this one focused, despite what I suspect will be a pathetic lack of readership. よろしく。

Photos from two months or so ago.

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