Coco Maria

Only of You

2012-02-26T16:18:00.003-05:00

Back in high school, when I bought my first pair of skinny jeans, I swore I would never wear bootcut or flare jeans again. I also swore that Green Day would always be my favorite band (and that I would marry Mike Dirnt), but hey, things change (though I still may have a little crush on Mike Dirnt). The funny things about these bootcut jeans is that while I think they make me look more mature, they also take me back to being a poorly dressed barely teen romping around in hoodies and a pony tail. I like these jeans a lot though, and I like to think a nautical sweater and eyelet blouse is just a teensy step up from a Bayside tee shirt, though, I'll be honest, my first instinct on how to style these was with a tee shirt, so watch out for that post! I'll have to dig up some old, unflattering photos just for the occasion.

Jeans, Blouse: H&M, Sweater: Topshop, Shoes: Ruche, Bag: JCPenney

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Feet in the Clouds

2012-02-23T23:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a gross day. It was one of those comically bad days when the universe makes up its mind to shoot spitballs at you until snap back and snatch the straw out of its hand. Seriously, it was ridiculous. But LUCKILY, today was exactly what I needed. After an early class, I got to hang out with my two "little brothers," family friends that I've known for years and years now. Whenever I hang out with the two of them I get to be a complete silly goober, giggling, watching youtube videos - the best. Then, I had lunch with a great friend from high school, and got to reminisce on the past and catch up on her life for a while, which was so nice. Then afterwards, I went out for coffee and some JoAnne's craft store shenanigans with my second mom (the mother of my "little brother") and goodness me, did we have a lot of laughs. I was very tempted to buy a tiny top hat that I think was designed for decorating dolls, though while in the store I used it to decorate my own head. All in all, it was a day that reminded me that, as corny as it sounds, there's a lot to be thankful for in my life, that the bad day's are just moments that remind me of the progress I've made, and that I like causing a racous in craft stores.

I found this dress in Forever 21, while I was on the way to the fitting room. There was just one, in my size, hanging out, so I took it and ended up buying it. My friend was all, "You look...colorful!" which she assured me was a compliment. Though, the dress is a little circus clowny. I can dig it though.

Dress: Forever 21, Blouse: H&M, Shoes: Ruche, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Necklace: Gift from Kuleigh

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Heart February

2012-02-22T18:33:00.001-05:00

Hey folks! I'm guest posting over at Shades of Monet today, sharing my thoughts on one of my greatest loves - poetry. There also may be some of my own poetry hanging out in that post, so check it out if you like.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Wine Blue Water

2012-02-21T17:38:00.003-05:00

Do you ever have those days where, out of nowhere, you begin to wonder what would happen if you had made different choices at all the biggest junctions in your life so far? It hit me something fierce this morning in english class, and let me tell you, english class is not a place for crisis. English class is a place for awesome and pretentious intellectual discussion on Dante's Divine Comedy, not internal conflict. I found myself wondering what kind of lady I would be if I had gone away to college, if I had stuck with my first or second brief internships instead of getting the cool job I have now. Then it morphed into, would I have more friends? Would I have stayed with my ex for so long? Would I have gone abroad? Would I be stronger than I am now?

And it was at this point where I wanted to dramatically yell stop! (inside my head, of course). These are the questions that bum you out and get you nowhere, because the answers just don't matter. Not one bit. I am who I am in this moment, partly as a result of choices I've made, and what I've got is a wide open future that I can still mold and tweak and explore. And no matter what I do, whether in five years I'm a circus magician, published poet, or street urchen, these questions will pop up. The problem, I think, is that this weekend I found myself in the middle of a conversation about my future. I've got a job I love for multiple reasons, but multiple parties were telling me that I need to get an internship, something more career focused. And as I've said, I've been quite stressed lately, and this news flash was hardly welcome. So I suppose, today, with everyone so concerned about my future, I found myself troubled by my past. Sure, these questions are important and, dare I say need to be asked, but for now, after a long day, I'm quite content to muddle through this present, with a cup of coffee and a good book, making the best now that I can for myself.

This dress is a fun little dress that makes me feel like a scuba diving speed skater. It also makes me hyper-aware of the, uh, plentiful nature of my chest. Some might say that's a plus or something.

Dress: Asos, Shoes: Dolce Vita via Marshall's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

In The Navy

2012-02-19T17:38:00.002-05:00

My facial expression in the above photo pretty accurately portrays my current sour-puss/woe-begone/sleepily confused mood. I was whining in my last post about being busy and not having enough time to myself, and now it's Sunday and I'm about ready to whine about the same thing. It's just a bummer, because I really could have used some time to catch up, but I only had a one day weekend, as I had class today and tomorrow. Bummer! I'm at least trying my best to be the kind of woe-begone person who laughs at her situation as she slowly spirals into crazytown, and not the kind of woe-begone who mopes and kicks people and stuff. We'll see! Anyway, I did a bit of shopping yesterday, and this skirt is one of the things I picked up. It's a wee short, but I like the colors and it's fun to shimmy around in.

Sweater, skirt: Forever 21, Blouse: Nordstrom Rack, Boots: Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Oh Deer!

2012-02-16T17:09:00.002-05:00

While mostly being a pun on the fact that there's a creepy deer (or perhaps, stag?) on my sweater, the phrase "Oh Dear" is a pretty good way to describe my feelings on today. Do you ever have those days where you're just frustrated to the point where it's almost comical? Like you're cartoon angry, and steam's coming out of your ears, and lasers are coming out of your eyes? That's how I feel today. I guess it's mostly school picking up, and work picking up, and me feeling like I've got no time for myself. Or if I make time for myself, I feel like I should be doing something more "productive" or whatever. Oh dear!

Sweater, skirt: Forever 21 (the sweater was on CLEARANCE, at FOREVER 21, which is like FREE. Which is mostly why I OWN IT), Shoes: Ruche

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Open Up Your Mind

2012-02-14T16:52:00.003-05:00

You guys know I'm all for thematic dressing, one hundred percent. This morning though, lace, red, and hearts weren't sounding super appealing as clothing options. So, I tried to find a middle ground. I've got a tiny bit of red peeking out of my boots, a little heart pin, and a whole lot of bunnies on my torso. I feel like this outfit is giving a nod of acknowledgement to Valentine's Day but not stopping to talk with it over a cup of coffee or anything like that. I have mixed feelings about Valentine's Day. I've never celebrated it, even when I was dating someone, but I'd like to. I'm mostly neutral about the whole business, but appreciate it as an excuse to listen to solid love songs and eat a lot of chocolate. I also noticed on my drive to school this morning that it's a great day to people watch. I saw so many people carrying bouquets of flowers, teddy bears, and heart shaped boxes like it was the norm. I think it'd be pretty cool if that was a normal thing, people carrying around cheesy gifts (nachos) for the people they thought were really cool.

Blouse: H&M, Skirt: Madewell, Boots: Vintage, Pin: Beautifully Regular

make animated gifs like this at MakeAGif

Chocolate covered oreo for you!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Keep A Close Watch On This Heart of Mine

2012-02-09T18:11:00.003-05:00

So, Johnny Cash is the newest theme in my life at the moment. And by theme I mean that he just kind of keeps popping up randomly, but frequently in different areas of my life. Taking this as a sign, I decided to listen to some of his music, and now I can't stop. Just last night, because I have such a busy social life, I had a play dress up and listen to Johnny Cash jamboree. It was just as exceptional as I'm exaggerating it to be, let me tell you. And today, when I found myself wearing black and stomping around in kick ass boots, I couldn't help but feel like I was channeling "the man in black" himself, though he probably never really wore purple tights or cameo pins.

Blouse: Forever 21, Jumper: Goodwill, Boots: Lucky Brand, Hat: Modcloth

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

At the End of the Day

2012-02-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

On Mondays and Wednesdays, I've got a bit of a hike from my last class back to the parking lot, which are on opposite sides of the campus. Today I decided to take out my ipod and listen to some music to make the stroll a little more pleasant. Whenever I listen to music while I ride on the bus or train, or go for a walk, I always kind of imagine I'm in a movie, and get super thoughtful (normative behavior, I'm sure). Today, I dug my hands in my pockets and started to think about the serendipitous nature of knowing who I know. While lamenting an unrequited love, I think it was my mother that said "Well, he may not be in your life for you to be in a relationship with, but he's at least teaching you something about what you want and what you don't want." In my opinion, there are simply too many people in the world that I will never meet, so I think that everyone I do meet has something to offer and teach me, and I to them as well. Whether it's the curly haired boy in my history class that reminds me of my ex, the girl on campus who rocks midi-length skirts better than anyone I've ever seen, or the postal worker in Tarrytown who pleasantly jokes with and chides everyone who mails something, I feel like I'm always learning from the people I come across.

Dress: Asos, Boots: Vintage, Socks: Target

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

All This Weird Beauty

2012-02-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

After a very long Friday that included school, work, and a friend's 21st birthday, it was nice to have a leisurely Saturday to catch up with myself. Last week was quite a busy one, since I worked some extra hours and started going to the gym a few mornings a week, but it was a good week. I mean, nothing much happened, but I kind of did a bit of soul-rummaging (that feels more accurate than "soul searching"). On Friday, for the first time really ever, I felt happy with exactly who I was, as an individual person. For just a few minutes, while I was driving home as the sun was setting, singing along to Jack's Mannequin songs, I didn't feel hung up on the past, or the future, or a crush, for the first time since I can really remember. It was fleeting, but really freeing and extraordinary. Even though I've slipped back into normalcy, I plan on carrying that moment around with me to remind myself of what I'm capable of, because I think we all need to be reminded of our own incredible ability sometimes.

Long sleeve shirt, pants: H&M, Blouse: Borrowed from Chloe, Boots: Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

In A Cabin in the Woods

2012-02-02T16:05:00.003-05:00

This is the kind of outfit I imagine I'd wear all the time if I married a handsome lumberjack, and we lived in the forest in the sweet cabin he built for us. It's apparently also the kind of outfit I wear on any regular Thursday as I fantasize about being married to a lumberjack. The post title, in addition to being a reference to my delusions, is also a reference to a song from a Muppet sing a long video I loved when I was a kid. It's a song about a bunny, who eats a farmer's lettuce bed and seeks shelter with a bear, or a wolf, or a monster, I can't remember, in his cabin. But of course, the bear or wolf or monster has foul intentions, but everything's fine because it's a Muppet sing a long. I tried to find a video of the song, but I couldn't find it. In my extensive searching, though, I did find a video of Bear's Rapping about roaring and being hungry, and yes, it's as fantastic as it sounds.

Plaid shirt, Sweater: JCPenney, Skirt: Madewell, Tights: Asos, Shoes: Ruche, Bag: Urban Outfitters

BEAR RAP

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Dark Haired Earth Shaker

2012-01-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

I'm currently reading The Odyssey for one of my literature classes this semester, and one of my favorite things about reading that epic, as well as the Iliad, are the fantastic epithets, or repeated creative phrases, scattered throughout. I love that daybreak is called "dawn, with her rosy fingers," and that Athena is referred to as "grey-eyed Athene" and that Penelope is almost always "circumspect Penelope." I could go on and on, 'cause there are a TON (yep, 2000 pounds of epithets. I checked). One of my new favorites that I hadn't noticed in the past is Neptune being referred to as the "dark haired earth shaker." I just think it's such a fantastic idea. I'd love to be a dark haired earth shaker, since I have dark hair and all. I guess I'm halfway there! Anyway, something about this outfit makes me think of The Odyssey. Maybe it's that my tights are blue, like the sea Odysseus is frequently traversing. Or maybe it's that the loose drapeyness of the dress I'm wearing reminds me of a gown Athena or Kalypso might drape over themselves.

Speaking of reading, one of my good friends Charlotte took these photos on campus for me today. One of the things I love most about my college is the awesome campus, full of lovely little nooks and old buildings.

Dress: Goodwill, Tights: Hue, Boots: Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Peeking Around the Corner

2012-01-29T17:21:00.002-05:00

More than ever before, I think, I feel like my future is this big, creepy question mark dangling in front of my nose, so close to my face that it looks more like a blur than anything. People keep asking me what I want to do with my life, and I just kind of smile and say, "Oh, I don't know, something with literature." Then they assume that I want to be an English teacher and I let them because, though I don't really want to be an english teacher, I even less so want to talk to someone who wants answers to questions I'm just beginning to ask myself. Then I've got people talking to me about relationships, and finding a boyfriend/hook-up guy/spouse. People keep telling me "Well, you've got to be more confident/outgoing/annoying, because you only attract what you give off!" I'm so tired of people telling me that "I attract what I give off," and better yet, that I should adjust my behavior only so that I attract a different brand of guy. I finally feel like I'm embracing who I am, and more importantly, learning how to show that person to other people. My lack of good friends who have stuck by me for long periods of time, coupled with every boy I've dated telling me I need to change myself to better suit him, has led me to believe that I, in my current state, am not worth all that much. I work hard every day to remind myself that I am, because I do like who I am, and who I continue to become, and every day I get a little more comfortable showing people more and more pieces of who I am.

Right now, there are a lot of people in my life who expect me to know what I want and who I want to marry and what my expected salary in 2015 will be, when in reality, I have no clue! Well, maybe I've got some inklings, but no one seems to want inklings from me, just answers and plans. I had plans for a long time, until I realized that plans, for the sake of plans, are not very good plans to have. Do I want to figure things out for myself? Of course! But right now, I want to hone in on the things I love, and cultivate myself into something extraordinary. I want to read creepy stories, classics, and poetry that makes me uncomfortable due to how good it is. I want to continue to write my own poetry about tumbleweeds and scabs and falling in love, give myself a voice, and maybe, just maybe publish something one day. I want to be a better student, but not to the point where I'm unhappy. I want to bake more. I really want to go for a hike instead of just reblogging pictures of hikers and mountains on tumblr. I don't want to live my life with expectations of what my life should be, or could be, or what anyone else believe my life should or could be. I figure I should just do all of this stuff and figure things out as I go along. That's not going to be good enough for all of the people who want me to have more friends or have a career plan or have a boyfriend for the sake of having a boyfriend, but it should be good enough for me, and I think it is.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Cinder and Smoke

2012-01-26T16:16:00.003-05:00

Today has been deliciously rainy. I say deliciously, because it's given me a good excuse to drink lots of vanilla biscotti coffee. And also because I may be heading out for a really fatty dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. While I love food, rainy days make me want to eat even more than usual. Other things rainy days make me want to do: cozy up in the library with some quality reading (check) listen to a whole lot of Iron&Wine (check check), and wear one of my comfiest sweaters (check check check). Also, thanks to you guys who read my writers block post. It's really been what's been weighing most heavily on me lately, so I really wanted to write about it and maybe (hopefully) help someone out in the process.

Dress: H&M, Sweater: Madewell, Shoes: Dolce Vita via Marshall's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Beating Up Writers Block

2012-01-25T18:12:00.002-05:00

Writers Block - the bane of every writer's existence. Well, maybe that's too dramatic, but it's no secret that writer's block is a real pain. Especially when you've got a manuscript, 20 page paper, chapbook due. It's terrible on a personal level too, though. At least for me. As someone who writes poetry predominantly about my experiences and feelings, it's frustrating for me to be unable to formulate something that should just be natural. So then, one of two things happens: I either force myself to try and write something I'm not fully invested in, and it turns out amazingly bad and then I feel bad, or I brood and avoid the idea of writing completely, waiting for the glorious muses to reign inspiration upon me in the form of interesting metaphors, which uh, doesn't happen much.

The point I'm getting at, is that it's really nice when writing is happening. It's nice to travel in a direction in which you're simultaneously progressing and enjoying the ride. But that doesn't always happen. For me, I have the biggest trouble writing when I'm outside of a poetry workshop, which is a problem since I only have a year's worth of college writing workshops left to motivate me, and unfortunately I was unable to take one this semester.

Yesterday, I was feeling particularly broody, about both my (lack of) writing and some personal jazz. I walked into my 9:30 class a half hour early and kind of let my mind frolic (or maybe wallow?) among the angst. This, in a surprising turn of events, led me to a not half bad idea. I don't know how the thought came up exactly (though I'm sure Valentine's Day isn't helping) but I thought about turning an expected love poem around a bit. What I decided to do was a experiment, where I wrote a list poem with the subject "In Response to the text, "I Miss You Baby. Take Me Back."

What I've found I like most about a good poem, by my own hand or someone else's, are really vivid, interesting metaphors an images. It's also one of the most difficult things to create in my own writing. So, writing this list poem was really a way to get my mind into poetry mode. All it's made up of is similes. Though the resulting poem as a whole isn't good, it's the process that's important. Forcing myself to come up with interesting images, to compare two things that don't conventionally match up, led me to some really interesting places. The interesting bits can lead me somewhere new. It's these little pieces of imagery that can take you somewhere new, somewhere you wouldn't have thought to go otherwise.

The "poem" I came up with has a range of silly and serious images, since I really have no clear direction of where I want my next poem to go. I figured with more variety comes more opportunity of something good happening. I don't know why I'm sharing this, because I'm kind of really squeamish about sharing any of my poetry, let alone a wonky writing experiment. So, uh, here's what I came up with

In Response to the Text Message, “I Miss You, Baby. Take Me Back.”

I miss you too, baby.
I miss you the way the sky misses a buzzing horse fly.
I miss you the way the moon misses a grubby astronaut foot, and a flag in the face.
I miss you the way a spiderweb misses a battering broom head.
I miss you the way an escaped circus monkey misses wearing a tutu, and clapping its hands on command.
I miss you the way a wool sweater misses a moth mouth.
I miss you the way a butterfly misses crawling.
I miss you the way a baby head misses its soft spot.
I miss you the way a scab misses a clump of pus.
I miss you the way my ears miss your flickering hisses.
I miss you the way my fingers miss curling in on themselves.
I miss you the way my body misses curling in on itself.
I miss you the way my brain misses curling in on itself.

Baby.

I miss you too.

So, I ended up trying to come up with images that really kind of snarkily, and sometimes painfully, take the idea of missing someone and turn it on its head, to say, I don't miss you or what you're about at all. There are some images here that I feel like I can take with me into another poem, like the "moth mouth" or the "spiderweb/battering broomhead" or a body part curling in on itself like a dead leaf, or gnarled like tree bark. Basically, writing this, doing this experiment, forced me to think about poetry as poetry. I wasn't trying to portray my own feelings about something (though there's definitely bits of me in there), and I didn't go into writing it with any expectation of what the resulting poem would be.

I've been struggling so much with writers block since winter break began (and it's now OVER), so I wanted to share a post about it, and this attempt to try and overcome it. I'm no pro on beating writers block, but this was a good way to try to get myself back in the mode of thinking creatively without any expectations. Hope this helps a bit! And if you try this sort of experiment, or have any writers block advice, I'd love to hear what you've written or done!

(This book of poems (Mother Said by Hal Sirowitz) is a good book of poems. It's a shame my nose is reading it and not my eyes)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Lace Face

2012-01-24T16:34:00.007-05:00

So, as you can see, the snow has all vanished since my last post. This weather is out of control, let me tell you. Anyway, I decided to attempt to take my own outfit photos today. As you can see, I most certainly do not have the hang of it. But hey, at least I'm in focus (I think), which is progress. There are a ton of cool places up by where I work that I want to explore and photograph, so hopefully I'll get the hang of it! Practice makes perfect. Or at least, practice makes passable. These were taken in what I believe is called Sleepy Hollow park. It's a nice little patch of greenery with a tiny waterfall and cool looking bridge. Hopefully I'll get to photograph soon! I would've taken outfit photos there today if it weren't for some meddling kids hanging out there. They weren't really meddling, so much as, well, sitting. Another day!

Anyway, I recently swapped a few garments with Chloe, and this dress is one of those! She seriously has such fantastic taste in clothes. I can't wait to wear everything she sent me!

Dress: Chloe's, Blouse: Cotton On, Boots: Arkival Threads

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Snow Hands

2012-01-22T16:48:00.003-05:00

We got our first real winter snowfall of the season on Saturday! I say "winter snowfall" because we got a pretty bad snowstorm in October, which was weird and disorienting more than it was fun. Saturday's snow was quite welcome though, at least by me. I like snow the most when it's just in flurries, blowing in the wind rather than collecting on the ground, but I'm cool with a decent covering of snow as well. We also went to a family party on Saturday, and this is what I wore.I honestly never know what to wear to family parties, since my "casual" is more dressy than my family's "dressy." My first inclination is generally to wear a party dress, which I started with. The combination all of my family members wearing jeans, plus my own not really wanting to look too "froo-froo" led me to put something a bit more casual together, with my old pal, the denim vest.

PS- Upon reviewing these pictures, I realized that snow has this weird effect on me, in which it causes me to not know what the hell to do with my hands. Enjoy.

Shirt: H&M, Skirt, Vest: Goodwill, Shoes: Ruche, Bag: JCPenney, Scarf: Taylor House

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Great Lengths

2012-01-20T16:38:00.002-05:00

When I walked downstairs to go put on my coat and head out for outfit photos, I heard my dad's voice, booming from the recliner, go, "WOW, I mean, WOW. That one's gotta go on yaw fashin blahhg!" So, here I am, at his bequest. Not really, though. I think he was just a fan of this outfit due to the modest hemline that most of my skirts and dresses scoff at. I had been wanting to try a longer length skirt for a while, and when I saw this skirt in the big Modcloth sale for 20 bucks, I figured it was worth a shot. I'm actually a big fan of it. It may make me look short or whatever, but I'm more a fan of the concept "wear whatever the hell you want" as opposed to "wear what flatters your body," or at least I'm trying to be. Plus the tag said that the color of this skirt was "waterfall biscuit," and how can you go wrong with waterfall biscuit?

Skirt: Modcloth, Sweater: Forever 21, Wedges: Ruche, Necklace: Grandma's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Grandma's Closet

2012-01-19T16:48:00.002-05:00

This outfit made me think of something I could put together if I was given 20 minutes to put together a look made entirely of garments from my grandma's closet. Or someone else's grandma's closet. The whole thing feels a little bit...old? But not in a way I dislike at all. I think it's the combination of the faux-fur collar and the shape of the coat I'm wearing. And that the brooch I attached is actually my grandma's. It's funny, whenever we go shopping together I'll pick something up and my grandma will say in her sassy Bronx accent, "Aww don't buy that, I got the same thing in my closet from fifty yea's ago. FIFTY YEA'S!" What can I say, my grandma's got good taste. Or I've just got old lady taste. Both are possible/probable.

Oh, and please excuse the fact that my nose is the same color as my coat (or don't, if you think it adds to the outfit or something). It was a bit too cold to be out and about, posing in front of someone else's house without a coat on, but you know me - always living and the edge (of catching a cold).

Dress, Collar: Asos, Shoes: Ruche, Brooch: Grandma's, Coat: Tag sale

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Was Just Some Tow-Head Teen

2012-01-16T14:32:00.003-05:00

Every day on my drive home from school, I pass by this small lake perched between the highway and a grubby looking suburb. Today I was driving the same route and decided to stop off to take some outfit photos. The water is just barely frozen over, so it's got this odd, pearly sheen to it. As I expected, there was a bit of garbage strewn about the surrounding are (including a suspicious whole trash bag?) but there were far more leaves and downed branches covering the ground. I would have stayed and explored a bit more, particularly because there was a playground with a tire swing, but it was just far too cold for my tights-clad legs to deal with for more than just a short time.

Oh, and before I forget, I added a few things to my blog shop, so pop on over if you like.

Skirt: Urban Outfitters + DIY, Sweater, Coat: Urban Outfitters, Blouse: Nordstrom Rack, Tights: We Love Colors, Boots: Famous Footwear

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Turn The Dirt Over

2012-01-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, a lot of things came to a head. I got let down and lost my temper. All I wanted was to dramatically storm out of the house and drive somewhere far away, but I settled for quietly leaving the house and driving somewhere a half hour away. I didn't know where exactly I wanted to go, but I knew that I wanted to be alone in a place I could wander and clear my head. Preferably a scenic location, because how often does beautiful scenery make things worse? A few weeks ago, I was driving around and running errands with my bosses, and they led me past this wonderful lake just a few minutes from the Writers' Center. It was the perfect opportunity to explore. I walked the dirt trails, climbed over branches, and listened to the trees creak and sway. Little black birds darted past me, and ducks took flight. I learned that ice crunching beneath my feet is a beautiful sound. I got my oxfords muddy. I saw a family of deer cross a house-lined street. I felt my legs go just a little bit numb, and got my spirits lifted. I also took some photos, so I wanted to share some of them so you guys could see what I saw yesterday.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Starry Eyed

2012-01-11T16:50:00.003-05:00

You can't see it very well, but this skirt has a galaxy pattern on it. I've wanted a skirt with a starry sky print on it for ages, but couldn't find one, so I decided to try and make one. Honestly, my grandmother did most of the work, since it was my first sewing project, but I'm so thrilled with it, and thankful for her help. She's kind of a magician when it comes to sewing, and dating advice, which you would know if you follow me on twitter. I bought a fabric that's white and covered in black keys (not The Black Keys, just black keys, but a skirt covered in The Black Keys would be cool too) so hopefully I get an opportunity to make a skirt out of that soon, too!

I wore this out to lunch with a wonderful friend of mine for a much needed catch up session. We spent a few hours eating healthy food (since we're both on Weight Watchers again) and just filling each other in on the ridiculous amount of things that have happened since we last talked. I love easy conversation and old friends.

Skirt: DIWYGH (Do It With Your Grandma's Help), Top: Cotton On, Tights: Asos, Boots: Urban Outfitters, Hat: JCPenney

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Hibernation

2012-01-10T16:29:00.002-05:00

If I was going to go into hibernation, I might wear something like this. Not only is it thematically appropriate, considering the bears on the sweater, but it's also super comfortable. Speaking of hibernation (just go with me here for the sake of the segue), I've been considering a blog hiatus for some time now. When you get dressed in the morning and think to yourself, "What can I wear that will get me comments/tumblr posts" there's a problem. I've been so antsy lately about the decreasing amount of comments I'd been receiving for a while. I mean, when you post pictures of yourself, it's hard to think your appearance isn't the problem. So instead of being a normal person, and wearing whatever the hell I want, some mornings I gear my outfit more towards what I think people will like, which in turn makes me feel like a fraud. For example, this morning I thought to myself, "Well I want to wear jeans, but I should wear a dress since I'll be able to take photos." After rifling through my skirts and dresses I basically said, "Screw it, I'm wearing my bear sweater." And here I am, bear sweater and all.

There's this bummer misconception within the fashion blogging community, I think, that every outfit has to be groundbreaking or interesting or innovative. Or maybe that's just my own misconception. Either way, it's such a silly idea. My blog is a daily outfit blog, in which I post what I wear, whatever it is, dresses or pants, skirts or tee shirts. Lately though, I've had this foolish idea that everything I wear has to be super interesting or it's not worthy of being posted. I'm trying to get past that and just do what I want, but the fact that blogging has been making me feel a bit crummy has me considering taking a break from it. I doubt I will, but you know, I guess I just wanted to get these thoughts out there.

Blouse, Sweater: JCPenney, Jeans: Levis, Boots: Famous Footwear, Hat: Thrifted

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Cold Water Eyes

2012-01-09T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hello there! Did you guys have a good weekend? Mine was fairly lazy, and I spent a whole lot of time reading for school (BOO!) and completing/continuing some more craft projects. On Saturday, my sister came up from the city and we took a drive to the mall. Neither of us bought anything, or even tried anything on, but we did eat at the Cheesecake Factory, and that's what counts. And that we spent time together. That counts to.

This outfit came together really easily. Most mornings lately I go through eighty different outfit combinations and leave the house unsatisfied with what I cam up with. But with this one, I just grabbed some things from my closet and they worked together. I love it when that happens.

Blouse, Sweater: Urban Outfitters (gifts), Skirt: H&M (gift), tights: Uniqlo, Shoes: Ruche

Short skirts make for weak jumps

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Q&A Video Blog

2012-01-08T12:05:00.001-05:00

Hi guys! Sorry it took so long, but I finally put together a video blog in which I answer your questions, play with my bangs too much, and spend far too long thinking of my favorite bands. Enjoy!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Clad in Plaid

2012-01-06T18:04:00.002-05:00

One of my goals for this winter break was to be more crafty and do more DIY projects since I knew I'd have a ton of time on my hands. Now, as break is winding down, I'm kind of going into hyper craft mode. I originally wanted to make a skirt out of this plaid fabric I bought, but then I cut the fabric wrong because I apparently can't measure things. Instead of wasting it, I turned it into some cute little cat elbow patches for this sweater. Though, I'm no hand sewing expert, so please pardon the devil-may-care attitude of the stitches. I did just get some new fabric though, and am going to try to make another skirt in the next few days. I've also been doing some embroidery work since my mom found a bag full of all of her old sewing/crocheting/embroidering materials. Maybe I should just retire from school and become a professional mediocre crafter?

Pinafore, tights: Asos, Plaid shirt: JCPenney, Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft + DIY, Boots: Lucky Brand

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Kitchen Sink

2012-01-04T16:01:00.002-05:00

Well, it seems that winter has finally arrived in New York. It's roughly -8,000 degrees today, and I am comically bundled, as you can see, and look about ready for an arctic hiking expedition. If those exist. Even though part of me wanted to wear a skirt today, that was not happening. I'm sure it will happen at some point when I get bored of pants and decide to just brave the cold, but for now, corduroys it is. Upon looking at these photos one phrase came to mind: everything but the kitchen sink. Because I'm pretty much wearing everything but the kitchen sink, and if I could figure out how to wear a kitchen sink in a way that it would keep me warm, I'd wear that too. I didn't realize how...colorful this outfit was until reviewing the photos, but you know. I've convinced myself it's fine, mostly because I just wanted to run back into the house and hide under thirty blankets rather than change my outfit and take more pictures.

Oh! And I totally spaced out on making a reminder about the whole Q&A video business. If you have a question you'd like me to answer, just leave it in the comments and I'll put up a video sometime this week/early next week answering them :)

Blouse, coat: H&M, Sweater: Madewell, Jeans: Topshop, Boots: Famous Footwear, Scarf: JCPenney, Hat: Hot Topic

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Sing, I Swim

2012-01-02T16:26:00.002-05:00

So, this is what I wore for delicious New Year's brunch yesterday with my family! It was quite a nice afternoon, that prompted me to start thinking about what I want in this brand new year. One of the most important things I learned last year is that I don't need an excuse to make a change, I just need a reason and a desire for change. So, I'm not really making resolutions this year, but this time of the year just makes me wonder about what direction I want my life to head in, and how I can make it go there. Honestly, what I really want this year is to continue the progress I've made so far, and to keep on recognizing my self worth. Sure, I'd like to learn new things, see new places, take more risks, but what I really want, at the root of it all, is just to keep growing, becoming happier and stronger with who I am.

Dress: JCPenney, Blouse: Cotton On, Tights: Uniqlo, Boots: Famous Footwear

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year, guys! I hope you had fun last night, and that the new year brings hope and happiness your way. To celebrate, I'll post an outfit from last year (lame joke. SORRY. I'm not sorry). On Friday, I spent the day with my sister Cheryl, palling around, shopping, eating, and just having a wonderful time. I love quality sister time. IN FACT, I'm seeing her again today, since we're all going out for brunch. I'm excited, mostly because I love food, but you know, seeing my family's good too, I guess.

Dress, tights: Asos, Coat: Tag sale, Bag: JCPenney, Shoes: Ruche

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

The Moon Was Just a Sliver Back Then

2011-12-29T17:54:00.002-05:00

So, these aren't the most beautiful photos, but this is a real life blog, and sometimes in real life you spend too much time at the mall and rapidly run out of daylight and realize that the only way you're going to get outfit photos is if you take them in the mall parking lot. So here I am, in the parking lot. At least I found a little patch of trees, right? I got this sweater for Christmas. It's from Madewell and I spent a decent amount of time fawning over it, but it was too expensive for me too just buy for myself without feeling way guilty.

Oh! And since I'm on winter break and have a bit of (read, way too much) extra time, I thought it might be fun to make a Q&A video blog to share! So, if there's anything you're curious about, just leave the question in your comment, and when I get a few, I'll put up a video blog answering them. So, ask away, if you please!

Sweater: Madewell, Skirt, Bag: Urban Outfitters, Shoes: Ruche

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

The Brooch Approach

2011-12-28T18:32:00.002-05:00

Man, I kind of love today's batch of photos. Not because I think my outfit is "earth-shattering" or because my hair looks so extremely luxurious. They were just such fun photos to take. That, and my facial expression in most of them is "skeptical/concerned," basically what my face usually looks like. So, lots of pictures today. Also, I wore not one, but two brooches today. And one of them is so obnoxious and weighs about eighty pounds. Hence the post title. The other one my lovely friend Charlotte gave to me for my birthday. It reminds me of a cross section of a tiny tree.

Blouse: JCPenney, Jeans: Levi's, Cardigan: Zara, Shoes: Le Bunny Bleu (not that you can really see them well)

Jumps!

Landings!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

With My Bear Hands

2011-12-26T15:28:00.003-05:00

Do you ever take a batch of outfit photos where you look at them and just wish you could virtual scooch your bangs into proper formation? Maybe that's too specific, but that's how I feel about these pictures. I'm a fan of the outfit, but I just want to go back and stop my hair from "acting a fool." Anyway, now that I've opened this post with a complaint, I hope you guys had a lovely Christmas! I wore this yesterday for a day of non-stop eating and present opening. Needless to say, I was quite under-dressed. I'd been coveting this Bear Sweater (yes, I care for it so much that it's now a proper noun) for months, but when I saw it originally the store had run out of my size. See, it's actually from the men's section of JCPenney, but when you fall in love with a Bear Sweater, you don't care about the particulars. I was so very thrilled to unwrap it yesterday morning, and had to wear it immediately. What did you guys do for Christmas? Did you get any gifts so fantastic that they garner being made into proper nouns?

The Bear Sweater: JCPenney men's section, skirt: H&M, shoes: Le Bunny Bleu, bow: Beautifully Regular

Christmas jumps!

My poor attempt at a bear impression. I was never much of an actor:

Just kidding. Here's mine, for real:

Bears!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Merry Christmas to You

2011-12-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you're all having a lovely, cozy, happy day full of cookies, family, and all things good. Yesterday, we had some family over for Christmas eve, and it was quite a silly, fun evening, the themes (topics of discussion/things that kept coming up out of nowhere) of which were "practicality, pantslessness, and plaid." Two things: 1. My family is a bunch of odd folks whom I love dearly, and 2. I didn't realize the Christmas themes all started with P until just now. Also, there was a lot of delicious food. So much food. Oh God, I ate so much food and it was so good and I don't even regret it. But anyway, clothes. I almost went red and green with my outfit, but I went more red/white with a teensy bit of gold instead. I'll probably end up staying in my oh so fashionable reindeer pajamas today, but maybe, just maybe, I'll come up with a Christmas outfit for tomorrow. Anyway, have a merry Christmas!

Dress: Asos, Sweater: Forever 21, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Icicles

2011-12-22T10:00:00.002-05:00

Thank you is kind of an inadequate thing to say to those of you who read my ultra-personal post yesterday and left your words of kindness, advice, and stories of your own. I was kind of nervous about posting it. I mean, I'm very open about my life and experiences, and have shared personal things on the ol' blog before, but that post was a bit harder to write. Like I said, I'm only starting to come to terms with my new confidence and happiness and growth. But enough about that. Onto more important things...like clothes? Uh. Not my best segway, eh? This outfit kind of reminded me of icicles, and ice princesses and all because of the beige and blue tones. When I put this together this morning, I just felt it was lacking a bit of cutesy-ness, so thankfully Jasmine came to the rescue, as the bow she sent me seemed to be the perfect touch of cutesy! Also, "the perfect touch of cutesy" sounds like a terrible romantic comedy/psychological thriller.

Blouse/dress: H&M, Sweater: Forever 21, Jeans: Levi's, Boots: Lucky Brand, Coat, bag: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Let Your Heart Be Light

2011-12-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

The holidays always make me reflective. New Years is all about a new start, leaving behind the past, thinking about what you want to change. Christmas has you thinking about who you care about and why and how much. In the past few months, I've asked myself all of these questions over and over, and made decisions, found opportunities, that have changed me in so many ways. In a span of months, I feel like a completely different person, with new improvements and new issues. Whenever I talk to my psychologist, I tell her how weird it feels to have confidence, how weird it feels to stand up for myself, and she always tells me that it's new, but that it's a "new normal." That these moments aren't moments, but rather I've changed, and that's something I'm trying to grow into and realize.

At the end of August, I ended a relationship that consumed my life because I let it. I've never been an extremely confident person. I often seek reassurance from others, and never was able to deal with my problems on my own. If I didn't have an outlet for my pain I internalized it and became bitter to those around me. This relationship exacerbated those things. I was with someone who was a nice guy. We had a lot of things in common and I could tell him mostly anything. And he told me he loved me. But I was always wrong. Whenever I did anything that upset him, it became an issue to talk about. If he did something that bothered me, it was my fault for being upset. This became normal. I stood with him for four years, grew more bitter, more needy, less confident. Then, our four year anniversary was drawing upon us and I panicked. We spent a week apart and I decided I needed to leave the relationship that was my primary outlet for everything in my life. Yes, I doubted myself and took back my decision, but ultimately, I realized that I needed to be alone, needed to grow, and needed to find a relationship that let me flourish instead of shrivel into someone I hate. That was the first time in a long time that I was really proud of myself.

Since then, there have been arguments where I've heard things like, "how often in our relationship did you know you to be right and me to be wrong?" and "I know for certain no one's going to love you like I do." And somehow, I've gotten past it, found enough worth in myself to know he's wrong, that I'm doing the right thing. That someone who loves you doesn't say and do those things. That I can be strong on my own.

Since then, I've been so much happier. Of course I cry over being lonely, over the hurtful things that have been said on both of our parts. I think everyone does. But I feel so much lighter. I'm learning to be confident in who I am as a single entity, as completely myself. I'm less bitter. I know how to talk myself out of sadness that used to cripple me and shut me down. I can turn myself around on my own. I definitely still struggle with this, but what used to be constant problem in my life is now scarce.

This weekend, I met the girlfriend of someone I developed a crush on. There was this moment of nausea, or wanting to leave and go home, to run into the bathroom and cry, to shut down. I didn't do any of those things. I talked to her, I talked to other people, I was happy and it was genuine. At the end of the night, I had another one of those moments of wondering who this person was, that I'd become. If you really knew me, the way my family and ex-boyfriend do, you would know that this isn't something I was capable of five months ago. The littlest setbacks shut me down, made me miserable, and I absolutely needed someone to comfort and reassure me. Now, I was able to talk to myself and say, "you met her, and that's okay. Now it'll be easier to move on from this, and that's really what you need to do. Just be happy and confident. That's the best thing you can do. Maybe she'll even be a little jealous."

These are small victories that I'm sure most people don't have to deal with, but for me, their giant walls that I never expected to be able to scale. Every day holds some new little challenge, but I'm learning that my progress is sturdy - it's not going anywhere, no matter how many setbacks I have, tantrums I throw, sobbing fits I have (because I still have them.) It's still such a strange thing to say, but I'm so proud of myself. I feel kind of haughty saying that honestly. But, I know that it's true, that I have things to be proud of and that I need to acknowledge that.

I don't know that I have any advice. I'm no expert on anything. I handled this break up in quite a messy way. But you ladies reading this, I know that you're all wonderful. That you deserve great things. It took me too long to realize it, but fears are often unfounded, and life is too short to be involved in something that makes you unhappy to any extent. Whether it just bums you out, or really breaks you down. You're worth far too much to be unhappy.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Hang a Shining Star Upon the Highest Bough

2011-12-20T12:50:00.003-05:00

I wore this outfit on Sunday to an event at work. I actually picked up this dress on Black Friday a few weeks back for really cheap. It's always kind of satisfying getting a really good deal on something, isn't it? Now, if you don't mind me, I'm going to frantically wrap presents and cram Christmas music into my ears while it's still acceptable for me to do so.

Holiday question of the day: Do you have your holiday outfits planned out? I for one have no idea what I'm wearing for Christmas eve or New Year's.

Dress, hat: JCPenney, Tights: We Love Colors, Jacket: Tag sale, Shoes: DSW, Pin: Beautifully Regular

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Fake Christmas

2011-12-18T10:30:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was my family's first Fake Christmas. You see, for the first time ever, my sister's not going to be with our family for Christmas, since her and her husband are going to California to be with his family this year. This is a real bummer for all of us (except Cheryl's husband probably) since we're quite close-knit and have always been together for the holidays. So, we decided to celebrate Fake Christmas this year so we could all be together for an almost holiday. And let me tell you, it was a wonderful day. There were presents, some delicious food (including macarons), Scattergories, and an absurd amount of laughs. There were a few moments where I nearly forgot it wasn't real Christmas, that's how good it was. It's lame to think that Cheryl's going to have to be with another part of her family for the holidays now, but it's comforting to know that fake Christmas is almost as good as the real thing, as long as we're all together.

Since we were pretending that it was Christmas, I wanted to wear a very holiday-ish outfit. This plaid blouse reminds me of wrapping paper, and red is one the most Christmassy colors there is. Oh, and you'll probably notice I got a haircut! I've been wanting to go pretty short for a while, and I'm happy I just did it. I mean, it's all nice and styled from the hair-salon still, and will probably never look like this again, but I'm hoping it'll look just as nice au naturel.

Today's holiday question: Are you done with your holiday shopping? Thankfully I'm all done, and quite pleased with the gifts I got for everyone. I always like finding gifts that I think my family and friends will really appreciate, and I was able to get most of my gifts from etsy and everything.

Skirt, purse: Urban Outfitters, Cardigan: H&M, Blouse: J Crew via Goodwill, Tights: Asos, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Christmas is Coming

2011-12-16T14:21:00.004-05:00

So, I'm officially done with the semester! Hooray! In order to celebrate, my mother and I headed into the city to do a bunch of touristy "Christmas in New York" things. Even though I've lived in New York City my whole life, I haven't been down to the Rockefeller Center tree since I was quite little. We went to Saks, Tiffany&Co, and Bergdorf Goodman to look at the whimsical Christmas window displays, went to Rockefeller Center, and explored the Christmas markets in Bryant Park. I'm not big on crowds, but my Christmas delight outweighed any sort of bitterness I could feel. Christmas! So, below are some of my favorite pictures from the day, and maybe some captions if I feel like adding them. Be warned, there are roughly eight million photos in this post.

Christmas Question of the Day: What's your favorite holiday tradition? In my family, every year we buy someone underwear to embarrass them. The person is never let in on it until they open it, and generally everyone laughs at their expense and gets a real kick out of it. Speaking of which, I haven't gotten "the underwear" in years now. Oh no!

First stop, Bergdorf Goodman! They had some funky animal themed windows full of beautiful clothes, and a polar bear.

Then, we stopped at Tiffany&Co, sort of by accident. They had the most adorable display though. Christmas Carousel theme!

Saks had a little story to go along with their window display. It had something to do with bubbles, but I kept forgetting to read the little snippets of the tale, mostly because I was distracted by all the pretty things

Then, twas on to Rockefeller Center! Somehow, we found this gigantic tree

This is what happens when my mom takes a picture of me with the large tree:

This is what happens when I try to take a picture of my mom with the large tree:

Angels!

And the lovely Bryant Park tree. I may have liked this one more than the Rockefeller Center tree. Whoops!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Haul Out The Holly

2011-12-14T17:33:00.002-05:00

I'm very nearly done with the semester, which means I'm rapidly entering full on Christmas mode. In fact, I just stepped away from a bowl of left over sugar cookie dough to write this post. I really should have brought it with me. Oh well. I'm baking up a batch of cookies for my last poetry class tomorrow, so hopefully they turn out alright! Even if they don't, I doubt anyone would care much. It's finals week and everyone's pretty delusional/mal-nourished to begin with. Speaking of my poetry class, as a lot of you know, I write poetry and it's something I take quite seriously, something I'd really like to be good at. Today, in my last meeting with my poetry teacher for the semester, my teacher had a lot of kind things to say about my work, how far I'd come, and how much she's enjoyed having me in her class and reading her work. The reason I bring this up is because I've had a bit of a rough semester, as a lot of you also know, and getting positive feedback and reassurance that I'm doing good work in an area that matters so much to me is really, really nice.

Holiday Question of the Day: Would you like to do a Christmas card swap? I love writing out Christmas cards, and if any of you would like to swap cards just let me know and I'll email you about it :)

Blouse: Delia's, Skirt: Modcloth, Cardigan: Forever 21, Tights: Asos, Oxfords: Ruche, Purse: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

The Pines Are Dancing

2011-12-12T18:25:00.002-05:00

I'm currently quite on the cusp of finishing all of my work for the semester. Currently, I should be rewriting/polishing one of my final papers so I can hand it in tomorrow and be done with it, but, you know, I'll get to that soon. Promise. Maybe. This outfit is remarkably comfortable, and I definitely wanted to be remarkably comfortable for an early day of class and doctors appointments and meetings. To be fair, I only had one meeting and one doctor appointment, but you get the idea. Also, I felt a little like a lumberjack wearing this around (well, I think it was mostly the hat), and it's hardly ever a bad thing to feel like a lumberjack.

Holiday question of the day: Do you own an "ugly Christmas sweater"? A few years ago I bought this sweater from sears with a horrifying Santa face on it. He had the biggest puckered lips and tiny eyes. Haunting.

Blouse, sweater, scarf, hat (though, it was thrifted technically): H&M, Shorts: Urban Outfitters/DIY, Coat: Urban Outfitters (not DIY), Tights: Asos, Boots: Famous Footwear

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

From Under a Pile of Final Papers

2011-12-11T16:15:00.002-05:00

So, this easy-peasy outfit is what I would've worn if I went to work today instead of staying home, buried under piles of papers, Shakespeare, Byron and self-pity. Luckily, I'm just about done with work for the semester (I think). I really just want to hand everything in and be rid of it, 'cause I know I'll be antsy until I do.

Oh, and speaking of work, like a was a few sentences ago, at a poetry reading on Friday night, one of the readers came up to me and told me -guess what - that she reads my blog! How ridiculous is that? She's a lovely poet named Jamie, who read her wonderful poems, in which she transcribed Gossip Girl episodes. Yes, it's as fantastic as it sounds. I had a great time meeting and talking with her! (Hi Jamie, if you're reading!) The whole poetry reading Friday night was pretty wonderful, but meeting a blog reader made it extra special.

And before I forget, today's holiday question: What's your favorite holiday treat? I'm a big fan of sugar cookies lathered in colorful icing, these rosette cookies my grandmother bakes, and those big plastic candy canes full of reeses pieces.

Dress: Etsy store, Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft, Tights: Hue, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage, Purse: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Cutesy-Tootsy

2011-12-09T15:33:00.003-05:00

I'm guessing the less-attractive/more-naive version of hotsy-totsy is cutesy-tootsy. If this is inaccurate, well, I'm not too concerned with that. Every now and then I throw on an outfit that's an alright outfit, but that feels just a bit too girly for me. Like I need a leather jacket or to roll around in the dirt and scrape a knee in order for it to be more "me." This is probably partly because I really feel like dressing in an ultra-frumpy way today since I've been inside writing a final paper all day. However, I've got to go to work tonight, and I don't think anyone would be thrilled if I walked into the office in breakfast-stained footy pajamas.

Anyway, I loved hearing what your favorite Christmas songs are! So, I'm going to ask another holiday question in every post I do until Christmas. Or until I forget that I'm doing that. So,

Today's Holiday Question: Do you guys decorate for the holidays? My house is a beautiful Christmas mess, and you may have seen the post on my Christmas tree a few days back.

Dress/skirt: Zara, Blouse, cardigan: H&M, Tights: Asos, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2011-12-08T18:16:00.002-05:00

If I had taken pictures yesterday and used this same post title, it would have been in a sarcastic way, considering the balmy December weather we've been having here. But today, it was legitimately cold, hence the wintery coat. As much as I don't love being cold, it's kind of nice to finally have a chilly December. Sixty degree temperatures in the same month a Christmas is just upsetting.

So, since I've had the song Baby, It's Cold Outside stuck in my head all day, I'll take this opportunity to ask a very important question: What's your favorite Christmas song? I absolutely love Christmas music, and the Christmas season in general. If I had to choose, I think I'd say my favorite is Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Frank Sinatra. I also love White Christmas by the Drifters (from the Home Alone Soundtrack), and every other Christmas song ever. I've also been listening to Winter Wooskie by Belle and Sebastian a ton lately, but that's more of a winter song than a Christmas song.

Coat: Urban Outfitters, Sweater, blouse: Forever 21, Skirt: Goodwill, Tights: Asos, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Cranberry Bog

2011-12-06T19:32:00.002-05:00

So, the title of this post functions on two levels. 1. I'm wearing cranberry-colored corduroy pants. And 2. I'm bogged down with school work. I wish that I was actually at a cranberry bog, hanging out with cranberries and such, but I'm not. I'm just wearing pants and going a little crazy. Today's been a real doozy. Not in a bad way or anything, though I do seem to be getting sick, in fact plenty of ridulous, slap-happy things happened today. It's just been a real doozy. So, excuse me while I end this blog post and eat my delicious dinner calzone.

Pants: Asos, Sweater: Topshop (gift), Shoes, bag: Urban Outfitter, Hat: JCPenney

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Holiday Brain

2011-12-04T12:59:00.002-05:00

I wore this the other day, when we put up and decorated our Christmas tree, so I'm thinking I subconsciously (or maybe consciously) had holiday-brain while getting dressed. It's not overtly Christmassy, but it is technically red and green, which are the most Christmassy colors. Also, I didn't notice it at first, but my high school's colors were maroon and gray when I attended, and navy and dark green when my sister attended, and my college's colors are green and white. I definitely have school on the brain right now, and it's apparently manifesting itself in my outfits. Swell!

Dress: Thrifted, Sweater: Urban Outfitters, Tights: We Love Colors, Boots: Lucky Brand, Brooch: Gift

Aaaaand, I thought you all deserved to see the graceful aftermath of this jumping shot, in which I look like a frog. I should really put together a super flattering "out-takes" post

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-03T16:51:00.004-05:00

Today, we decorated the house for Christmas, and I'm in such a cheery mood! Every year, we put the tree up, listen to Christmas music, and laugh about the ridiculous old ornaments as we hang them up. We have so many ornaments that are adorable, that have silly stories attached to them, and some that are downright creepy (one-eyed Porky Pig, anyone?), and I thought it would be fin to share some of my favorites with you! So, heeeeeeeere we go!

This is a photo of Cheryl and I with Santa Claus! Or, at least, an unhappy looking man dressed up as Santa Claus. I think Cheryl looks adorable with that big bow in her hair, but I think I look like an oversized boy baby.

While I'm being both vain AND self-deprecating, I thought I'd share my favorite Santa and Me photo from the tree. When I was a kid, this is how I smiled. Really. Ask me to smile, and I bore my teeth like a jackal. Cute!

These are two little bundled up lovers. My parents picked this one up shortly after they got married, one million years ago, and it's really adorable. I love the shiny gold and metal vintage ornaments we have scattered about the tree.

This is a little, tiny book with that contains images and verses from Deck the Halls. It's one of my favorites because I love books, especially tiny ones, and that song.

The Campbell's Kids! This is one of my absolute favorite ornaments. My mom got it from Campbell's Soup by sending away for it back in 1986. I love the style of it, and how downright adorable it is.

I hadn't noticed this ornament until this year, but it's now one of my favorites. It's a beautiful little wooden violin that, according to my mother, was on her tree when she was a youngin'.

Horton! A few years back, I got way into Horton Hears a Who. We found this ornament on super clearance during the off-season, and every year I get really excited to hang Horton and little tiny baby Horton up on the tree. Because I'm a mature adult. Oh, and uh, don't mind the horrifying pasta angel amalgamation just to the left of little tiny baby Horton. The real pasta angel's head broke off, and when another ornament's head fell off, I uh took it upon myself to fix everything! The result was that. Beautiful, no? Speaking of which, let's end on two of the creepier ones!

Little One-eyed Raggedy Annie! She also has no arms. But boy, is she cute. My mom picked this one up years ago, not that you can tell. And now, everyone's favorite...

One-eyed Porky Pig! Now, I'm not sure why we have so many amputated, disintigrating, creepy ornaments on our tree, but I can say that I love it. Not only is Porky one-eyed, but he's also inexplicably not wearing any pants. Merry Christmas!

And there you have it! The busiest Christmas tree in all of Christmas land. Do you guys have any fun/weird ornaments that you love to hang up?

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

At The End Of The Day

2011-12-01T18:42:00.002-05:00

My goodness, am I happy for this week to be over. Well, this weekend is going to be full of plenty of work, but it's nice to have a little time to just relax. I've only got two weeks left of school left, which is ridiculous, and I'm kind of in the final push of work and papers. I'm hoping to get most of, or at least half of, my writing done this weekend so I don't get TOO crazy by the end of the semester. Though, uh, I'll probably be pulling my hair out in two weeks anyway. But it's fine!

This sweater is super hairy. And a little itchy. But I liked how it looked with the rest of the outfit, so I stuck with it. Also, this "shirt" used to be one of my favorite dresses, but every time I wash it, it gets a little bit shorter. And, alas, it finally got inappropriately short, so now it's a long shirt. At least I can still wear it in some form, I guess!

Former Dress:H&M, Hairy Sweater: Forever 21, Comfiest Jeans: Levi's, Oxfords: Ruche, Silly Hat: Thrift store

In which my face embodies my feelings toward this week:

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Kicking Down Doors

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I was still feeling a bit glum from the weekend's happenings. One of the easiest ways to feel better, at least for me, is to put on an outfit that makes me feel like a slight bad-ass. I got these boots for super cheap last Friday and wearing them totally makes me want to kick down doors, and possibly certain people, but mostly just doors. And though nothing was kicked I have to say I was feeling better by the end of the day. As much as sassy outfits help, good conversations, giggling, and putting things into perspective are pretty swell, too. Do you guys have any garments that just make you feel instantly ultra-awesome? I'd love to hear about 'em!

Skirt: UO, Blouse, hat: JCPenney, Boots: Lucky Brand via Lord and Taylor

(my hat totally looks like a Pringle in that photo)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Worth Wondering

2011-11-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

This outfit makes me feel a little bit like a court jester. That's really not a good thing, because court jesters remind me of ventriloquist dummies, and I have a pretty strong fear of those. I like the outfit, though. Quite an enigma. Anyway, I actually took these pictures on Sunday, and it always makes me feel like a bit of a cheater when I don't post photos of what I wore on the day I'm posting. The fact that it's getting dark at 4 now, and I'm in school/work until 4 or five generally, though, doesn't bode well for outfit photos. Oh well.

Blouse: J Crew via Goodwill, Shorts, bag: Urban Outfitters, Trench: H&M, Hat: Modcloth, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Simple Girl

2011-11-28T10:00:00.001-05:00

So, a few weeks ago Vedette Shapewear contacted me, asking if I wanted to be a part of their "Got Nothing to Hide Campaign." I think it's a great idea to try and get more women feeling confident about their bodies, so I jumped at the chance! I got to pick out one of their bodysuits and style it up as a wearable garment. This is what I came up with! Honestly, this bodysuit is a total dreamboat. It's comfortable, it actually works (I tried it on under some of my tighter dresses and OH MAN), and I think it looks cute as a top. Sure, there's a little bit more chest showing than I would normally be cool with, but it's nice to try something a little different every now and then.

Also, will you guys hate me if I never stop wearing this hat? I picked it up last Friday, and it kind of goes with every outfit ever. And makes me feel like Carmen Sandiego.

Bodysuit: AIMEE Bodysuit c/o Vedette Shapewear, Skirt: H&M, Hat: JCPenney, Shoes: A Wild Tonic Vintage, Jacket: Salvation Army

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Thoroughly Modern Mustard

2011-11-26T16:32:00.002-05:00

So I wore this very mustardy get up on Thanksgiving. I'm not sure why I was compelled to be super matchy-matchy. I guess I usually have eighty million patterns/textures going on and kind of panic when I wear solids. Even so, I think the outfit came together all right. And it was darn comfy for eating lots of food. Oh, the food. Apart from making me take a look at all the good things I have in my life, the food is my second favorite part of Thanksgiving. Because I love food. I baked pumpkin snickerdoodles, pumpkin pie, and pecan pie for the occasion, and there aren't any pictures for obvious reasons. I even whipped up some chocolate mustaches which my family, being a whole bunch of hams, had a grand old time with. Also, my mother, sister, and I inadvertantly matched perfectly. Here, look:

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Thankful

2011-11-24T14:30:00.002-05:00

These past few months have been tumultuous. This past week has been tumultuous. In short, we were going to adopt a cat, then we were not, then we were, then we DID, and now we aren't. I was woken up this morning by my mother saying, "I'm bringing the adoption papers back" so I haven't been in the best mood since. It's really tough for anyone to have her hopes raised high and dropped down. I was planning to get up this morning and write a list of what I'm thankful for. Honestly, I'm not in the mood right now, which is exactly why I'm going to write one. The reason why I love reading other people's thankful/happy lists is because they focus on the positivity in their lives instead of whatever's going wrong. So, here we go

I am thankful for:

-My family. I always start here because I feel like it makes the most sense.
-Cheryl, for the support she's given me the past few months. For letting me stay over at her apartment so many weekends. For listening to my cry over the past and gush uncontrolabley about boys. For being a disney princess. For telling me I was doing the right thing when everyone else seemed uncertain.
-Anna, for everything. For years I felt like I only half knew you, and honestly thought you didn't much want me as a sister. Or at least were neutral about it. But this summer, we finally started talking. You shared with me (I kind of forced you, but still) and opened up, and now I feel like I can talk to you about everything. I miss you so much and now that mom's denied me the cat, she's going to have to let me fly across the country to see you in January. You really don't know how happy I am that we have a real relationship now. Also, you're the strongest person I know. What you're going through is not easy, and I love you for your courage.
-Daphny, for having the personality I kind of wish I could have but never will, and for making my sister so happy, and for thinking I'm pretty cool.
-Mom. She's not always right, but she's understanding. She's a good mom.
-Bill Shullenberger, for being a sage, a listener, and a friend. And for sending me an e-card on my birthday that contained penguins singing in a soda shop.
-Penguins singing in soda shops.
- Charlotte, for being such a beautiful person. For being so self-less, and for always reassuring me of how good a friend she considers me. That kind of honesty is rare, and I appreciate it more than you know. Also, for loving men in good suits as much as I do.
-Lori Ziesel, for being my friend-mom and for probably giving me the best advice about my breakup/crushes of anyone. And for Josh and Matt. I miss you guys too much.

-Steph, Amanda, Gerlin, Sasha, my high school friends, for still liking me and for being some of the best people I know. I wish I could see you more often.

-Lissette, for being an inspiring lady.

-Bear Mountain, for being beautiful and majestic. Can I go there now?
-My job at the Writers' Center. Honestly, I had a dim hope of having an unpaid internship or working at starbucks during this semester. When I went for my interview with Ryan and Frank, I knew that I needed to work there. It wasn't even what I asked for, but now I'm a paid part-time worker there with the title of "administrator," though I think that gives me too much credit. I'm so thankful to be working, and to be working at a job I genuinely enjoy going to. Which reminds me...
-Frank and Ryan. These two guys are the best co-workers/bosses/office mates I could ever hope to have. Honestly. Thank you Frank for caring about my breakup when you hardly know me, playfully making fun of me (Ryan should be included in this one, too), and telling me at the end of almost every work day that you appreciate the job I'm doing. Thank you Ryan for liking good music and for recommending bands/artists to me that I actually listen to pretty constantly now, for making me laugh, and for engaging in weird discussions with me about cats and the people whose credit cards I run.

-Really cozy sweaters.
-Poetry, writing it and reading it and hearing it. It's a big part of my life.
-Ebony, the cat we were supposed to adopt. I wish we could have brought you home more than you know. You'll find a home because you're the sweetest cat in the whole shelter. I miss you and I'm sorry.

-Keila, for egging me on.
-Macaroni and cheese from Homeroom.
-Spotify, for helping me find so many new bands I love.
-Band of Horses.
-Rediscovering and multiplying my love of The Shins.
-Being able to meet some of my favorite blog friends this year (Kallie, Michal, Emily, Elanor, Ellie)
-This blog in general and the people it's led me to meet. My blog pals are some of the best people I know, and the thought of not ever meeting you guys is a terrible one.
-Henry David Thoreau.
- Kurt Vonnegut. And his books. He is a sage, and I wish I could have known him, though he probably wouldn't have really liked me.
-Foxes.
-The Bronx Zoo.
-Italian food in general because it is delicious.
-San Francisco and Santa Cruz, and for the fact that I got to visit California two years in a row (and maybe in January again)
-Dresses, for making me feel less chubby than pants, and for being cute.
-Hot chocolate on rainy nights.
-Donut Plant donuts. I was obsessing over them for months, then had one, and it was delicious.
-Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin pie. Pumpkins.
-Every stranger who's improved my day without knowing it.
-My poetry professor for being a sage and making me want to write.
-That I have a roof over my head, food in my refrigerator, and clothes in my closet.
-Myself. This is kind of a weird one but, BEAR WITH ME, I was watching the biggest loser and Hannah was all, "This year I need to be thankful for myself and for how far I've come, because I've never done that before." You guys all know that since August, things have been pretty hectic. I broke up with a guy I had been with for four years, who was a really good guy, but the relationship just wasn't right. I needed to be more independent, stronger, overall just better and in a healthier state of mind. And I feel like I've already become a different person. I can handle more on my own, I can look at things in a positive way more often than ever before. I have a strength to me and a resolve that I never had before. I'm, to steal a phrase, still "getting used to my new normal," because it's so weird to feel stronger and better about myself. But I am, and I'm thankful so much for that.

The thing about these lists is that I am forgetting SO many important things and people. I should really, starting tomorrow, make a yearly list for next Thanksgiving so I don't frantically type up the things that pop into my head. But anyway, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving. I hope you're all already having beautiful days, but if not, I hope they get better, and that you can force yourself (I know, it's not easy) to look at the good you've got.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

We Fall In Love By Accident

2011-11-23T18:27:00.002-05:00

I've spent most of the day baking for Thanksgiving (pecan pie is currently in the oven), but I still felt like dressing up since I had a few errands to run before hand. I got this corduroy jumper for my birthday and while I had been wanting it for a long time, it's proving to be a bit difficult to style. I like what I came up with for today, though. Big scarf, lots of brown, cozy town. Just what I needed for this rainy baking day.

Corduroy jumper, tights: Asos, Blouse: Nordstrom Rack, Sweater: Zara, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Scarf: Taylor House

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Writing Weekly, Part Four

2011-11-21T14:01:00.003-05:00

Hey there, guys. This past weekend was somewhere on the bad side of the weekend spectrum. In short, my parents and I went to look at cats because I really want to adopt one. I got instantly attached to this fantastic cat named Joe Boy, and we decided to talk things over and maybe come back to the shelter mid-week to adopt him. My father mentioned that when he was a kid, he was allergic to cats. He assured us, while at the shelter, that he was doing fine being around the cats. My sister was the one who dragged it out of him that his eyes got a little scratchy at the shelter. There's a really good chance that we won't be able to give Joe Boy a home (man, it's really hard to type that out), and I may have spent Saturday night balled up on the floor, trying to work but mostly having to fight my emotions back, which as we all know I'm no good at. I've been spending my days frantically researching air filters and ways to reduce allergies in a home. I really don't want to give up on him, and am hoping we can make this work.

I didn't take pictures over the weekend, and I've been working all day today and don't feel much like taking tripod photos, so I figured this would be a good time for me to re-start the Writing Weekly feature I began over the summer. Instead of sharing a book of poetry I've read, I'm going to share one poem that's really resonating with me that week, then talk a little bit about why I think it's important. Well, here we go:

The Fetus’ Curious Monologue by Amy Gerstler

My tail was longer than my hindlegs
not so long ago. I remember the Flood
several Ice Ages being covered with fur
chalk beds trilobites giant ferns
a scaley monstrosity crawling out of the sea
croaking a great surprise awaits you

Will I too grow fins? feelers? an elephant’s trunk?
Cheerful to this hour, afloat in my private ocean,
I plan to make a grand entrance,

howling in molten dialect, Even the sea’s spooky depths
shall not alarm me for I am already sunk!
The life of darting shadows, the deceptive surface
of the world – I shall see right through
to the seaweedy bottom. I will not be fooled!

The body’s hinges itch.
Gill slits ventilated my neck
until yesterday.
A newfangled monster,
Now what will I breathe?

green lipped mussels
horseshoe crabs
coral and snails
waterworms

all sing of unalloyed joy and reciprocrated lust –
proof of progress, proof that evolution
is not just erosion, proof chiseled from limestone quarries
of womanly virtue (ageless patience, the warp and woof
of heredity’s tireless loom),
proof we do not really die
when our brief terms expire

My pink lungs are mutated swim bladders of fish.
A solitary wasp of consciousness
buzzes in my head while below,
the usual two room shack,
a bi-chambered heart is being constructed.

Someday I will have a scarlet hat and a ring,
perfect pitch,
a longing to be admonished.
Torn from the shores of immortality
I’m due to wash into the world soon,
wearing the face of a retired opera singer
mid-aria, famished and squalling.
I’m a festival of cells.
My blood’s as rich as Christmas
punch. Was I a horse thief in another life?
A blasphemous priest? What were my crimes?
What have I done to deserve to be bottled up thus?

I shared Amy Gerstler's work on this blog before, mainly because she's my current favorite poet, but also because I think her work manages to be both accessable and interesting. And life-altering, but that might just be me. In this poem, a fetus talks about its current situation and the changes its experiencing, and how terrifying and disorienting those changes can be. The fourth stanza is what really set me off. I've been going through a lot of personal changes, as you know, and the thought of living your whole life with gils, then losing them and being forced to find a new way to breath really affected me. I may or may not have melodramatically sobbed at the thought. This is why I love her poetry. Not because it can sometimes cause me to melodramatically sob, but because it takes something foreign and makes it completely relatable, something I wish I could do as well as her in my own work.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Mixed Berry

2011-11-19T10:42:00.002-05:00

Last night, I had a looong night at work. I generally don't add extra vowels to the words in my blog posts, and I added them now - that's how long I was at work, and by myself for the most part. I mean, it was kind of nice. I work in a really cute little cottage-like building, so it was kind of cozy, listening to music and getting a bit of work done before the open mic later on that night. Unfortunately, I'm also terribly paranoid, so I was kind of afraid of someone breaking in and sneaking up on me or something ridiculous like that. Also, there's apparently a mouse running around in the office, and at one point I heard some weird scratchy noises coming from inside the wall, which prompted me to shuffle quickly out of the office and set up the cookie table. The open mic was nice, as it always is. There was a cool little band (who named themselves 'Dave&Erick' just before performing) and some good poetry as well. I think next time I'll work up the courage to actually read some of my own!

Anyway, I was going to write about last night in order to get the point that I wanted to be a bit more dressed up because I was the only person from the Writers' Center working the event but that I still wanted to comfortable, and this dress fit the bill quite nicely. I'm not sure why, but I really wanted to pair it with these maroon tights, which ended up making me look something like a mixed berry pie, with my feet being the crust. Maybe. In other news, I'm hungry, if that wasn't apparent.

Dress: Asos, Tights: We Love Colors, Shoes: A Wild Tonic vintage, Necklace: Grandma's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Like You Because You're True Blue

2011-11-17T17:27:00.004-05:00

Some of the best outfits make you look a little bit like an elderly person dressed you when you got up that morning, I think. There's just something so cozy about short pants, thick socks, and a big ol' sweater. A whole bunch of kids on my campus walk around in ankle length pants, showing off their awesome socks, so I decided to see what all the hype was about. That hype, in my opinion, is justified. Elderly appearance or not, I kind of dig it.

On another note, you guys know by know that poetry is really important to me. Over the summer I did a few installments of a feature called Writing Weekly, where I talked about a book of poetry I had read that week and shared some poems from the collection with you guys. Then, school started. And while I've been reading (and trying hard to write) poetry every week, it's been in smaller doses. But I really want it to have a place on this blog. I'm thinking of choosing a day to maybe just share one great poem I've read that week. Kind of like Writing Weekly, but on a smaller scale. If you guys have any ideas, or anything you'd like to see, I'm all ears! (Maybe not all ears, 'cause that's kind of weird to think about, but at least mostly ears).

Cords: Espirit, Sweater: Forever 21, Socks: Target, Oxfords: Ruche, Trench: H&M, Bag: Urban Outfitters

>

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

These Boots

2011-11-16T19:00:00.003-05:00

Whenever I wear boots, these boots in particular, I notice that I feel approximately twelve times more awesome. For some reason, I walk with more sass when I wear them. Is this a common symptom of boot wearing, or is it just me? Anyway, this is my first semi-successful attempt at indoor outfit photos. I was going to trek outside with my tripod for photos, but as I was getting dressed, it began to rain and didn't stop until just a little bit ago. And let me tell you, I just got the hang of making sure I'm in focus in my tripod pictures, so as determined as I am, I only very briefly considered lugging myself, my tripod, and my expensive camera out into the pouring rain. I think the photos came out alright. The lighting is, of course, iffy, but hey - I match my sofa, and that's pretty alright by me.

PS- There is totally a pencil under my sofa in these photos. I don't even know. Also, the phrase "There's a pencil under my sofa" sounds like secret code speak, but that's not what I meant, for the record.

Blouse, Sweater: H&M, Skirt: Asos, Boots: Famous Footwear, Hat: Modcloth

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

A Lion's Heart

2011-11-14T17:59:00.004-05:00

Last night, amidst an amalgamation of papers, Shakespeare plays, and several mugs of hot coco, I considered taking a "blog-cation." Last week, all of my less fun emotions and all of my insecurities teamed up with a massive amount of work to make me feel, well, less than wonderful. Last night was really the culmination of such things. I've been doing well and staying strong with the various personal and social things that I've been dealing with this semester, and it's been surprisingly easy, but all of a sudden I found myself feeling really weak and worried in a way I haven't been in months. And it scared the hell out of me (though I don't like the thought of there being hell in me). I've made a lot of strides in the past few months, and finding myself completely overwhelmed made me worry that all of my progress had been instantly erased. After a good day, lots of good music, and an embarrassing amount of hot coco (which reminds me, I should go make myself some coco) I'm feeling better and nagging myself about the fact that I'm going to feel weak and powerless, but that I'm strong, and the strides I've made and continue to make can't just leave me because they are me.

So, uh, I guess this is my way of saying I'm not taking a blog-cation because, frankly, I love taking photos and writing these posts. And I love hearing your thoughts, though I have been the absolute worst at commenting on your blogs. So, thanks for sticking with me folks. I'll be a better blogger, promise.

Dress: H&M, Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft, Tights: Asos, Shoes: Ruche, Headband: This DIY

(sorry the sizing of these photos is all wonky. Forgot that cropping changes the size of the photo. Whoops!)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Blooming Up From the Ground

2011-11-12T11:09:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was deliciously easy-going. I usually work on Fridays but ended up not having to go in yesterday, so I decided to do some thrifting and reading. Later, I attended a documentary screening at my school, which proved to be a moving, inspiring experience. I won't go too into detail here, but the film, The Return of Navajo Boy, focusses on one Navajo family as well as the overall topic of the problem of unclosed uranium mines on Navajo ground, and how Navajo that were hired to work in uranium mines weren't told of the health risks that many are now dealing with and dying from. I may have to do a post just about this, because it's a topic that needs to be discussed, that I knew nothing about before watching the film, but I encourage you to go to the film's website and learn a bit about it.

On to less important matters, I wore a very large sweater yesterday because it was quite chilly. My lovely sister got me this sweater for my birthday, and I can see it coming quite in handy now that the temperatures seem to be consistently dropping.

Blouse: H&M, Sweater: Gift (I think Urban Outfitters), Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Jeans: Levi's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Got A Head Full of Lightning

2011-11-10T17:17:00.000-05:00

I'm quite pleased that it's now officially the weekend. This week wasn't particularly more stressful than any other, but it's always nice to get a little break from the rapidly rising tide that is this semester. Can you believe Thanksgiving is three weeks away? I can't. I refuse to believe it. As much as I love eating, if it's almost Thanksgiving, then I have a WHOLE lot of work to get done. But, for now, it's the weekend! Of course, I'll be doing work for plenty of this weekend, but I'm also excited about some fun plans I've got.

As for my outfit, it actually follows the exact same formula as what I wore yesterday but didn't get a chance to photograph: button down, pullover sweater, skirt, tights. It's a combination that has become a default for me this autumn because it's easy but makes me feel kind of put together at the same time (a wonderful feeling, especially when in actuality your mind is running in eighty different directions!

Skirt: Goodwill, Blouse: Nordstrom Rack, Sweater: Forever 21, Tights: Asos, Boots: Delia's, Brooch: Grandma's

Until tomorrow,

Nicole

Leftovers

2011-11-09T19:40:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the terrible, early darkness, I didn't get a chance to take outfit photos today. I attempted indoor pictures (three separate times at that) but very quickly got frustrated and gave up. Then I remembered these photos from over the weekend! After hiking on Saturday we went out to dinner. And because I'm silly, I changed into a little dress I'd been wanting to wear again. It's definitely more of a summery dress, but I couldn't resist the fun, sherbet-ness of it! If you have any ideas about how to Fall-icize it, I'd love to hear them.

Dress: Asos, Sweater: Zara, Shoes: Goodwill

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

So It Goes

2011-11-08T17:07:00.003-05:00

This morning, I was trudging, only half-awake, from the parking lot to class, when I heard the little squeaky voice of the most adorable little girl announce, "Mommy, look! That girl is fancy!" One of the best things about kids is that they have no filter. That little girl made my morning with her kind little words, and for the rest of the day I couldn't stop thinking about kindness. I tried harder to smile at the people around me, hold doors for more people, wish everyone I spoke to a good day, and just be a better person (as long as we disregard how angry I got at the people who cut me off while I was sitting in traffic today but YOU KNOW, it's only because they were being cruel and self-serving). I got to wondering about why we don't speak our minds more. There were so many times walking around campus today that I thought "Man, I love that girl's jacket! Dress! Shoes!" but didn't say anything, though if someone said that to me I would be so thrilled. There are a ton of people in my life, those I know well and those I know less well, that I appreciate for their humor, wit, happiness, and company, but I hardly ever tell them because "it would just be weird." Before I left work today, one of my bosses made sure to tell me that they really appreciate the work I'm doing for them, and that he's happy I'm on their team. And just like the kindness of that little girl in the parking lot, my spirits were immediately lifted. I want to throw this idea of "it's weird" out the window. It's not weird to tell someone that you appreciate them, that you like their shoes, that you're happy just to know them. Sure, it's uncommon, but it shouldn't be.

In regards to my outfit, this Slaughterhouse Five tee shirt was one of my birthday presents, and I'm so happy to have it. As I've mentioned, Kurt Vonnegut is one of my favorite authors and people, so this shirt is right up my alley. I almost paired it with jeans, but thought it would be just too egregious to wear both jeans AND a tee shirt to work (not that they care), so I paired it with a skirt.

Shirt: Out of Print Clothing, Skirt, shoes: Urban Outfitter, Jean Jacket: Goodwill

(Those pockets are real small, so I look mostly like a chicken)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Bear Mountain

2011-11-06T14:39:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was the best. For my birthday, my family and I did a bit of hiking around Bear Mountain. My goodness, it was beautiful. The pictures I took don't even do it justice. We drove up to the very top, and the view was insane. All of the leaves on the trees were various shades of purple, orange, and yellow, and it was really like looking down on a sea of beautiful autumn colors. After last weekend's little snow storm, I was a little bummed out by the prospect of the leaves falling off the trees sooner than usual because of the crazy weather, but it was perfect. We did a bit of hiking around the various delightful trails, and even found ourselves, uh, in a few climbing related predicaments. It was fun, and terribly amusing climbing down (and back up after wimping out) super steep rocks. I may have tumbled once. Possibly. After some hiking, we accidentally found the wonderful park at the bottom of the mountain. There were so many fun things to do there. There was a huge grassy field I could have lay down in all day (and played frisbee in. Things for next time!) and a carousel where I got to ride a FOX - because now that I'm officially twenty, I'm acting even more mature than usual. There was also a nature trail and zoo, where I found myself in solidarity with a particularly contemplative-looking bear. I'm quite determined to drag my friends up to Bear Mountain soon enough! I'm sure I'm leaving out one million wonderful things. This birthday weekend has honestly been fantastic. The past few months of being nineteen were tumultuous, exciting, crazy, and held a lot of changes for me. So welcoming in a new year, a new decade of my life, is exciting, and I couldn't think of a better way to have spent my birthday.

Proving my newfound maturity:

Thoughtful bear, longing for something more:

The lake:

Throwing leaves and making dumb faces!

The aftermath, when it took me too long to figure out that leaf was stuck on my head:

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

They Say It's Your Birthday

2011-11-05T09:30:00.000-04:00

So, today is my twentieth birthday! Hooray! I'll be spending the day with my family, going on a hike, eating delicious food, and just celebrating. These photos are from last night's pre-birthday birthday celebration. My friends and I met up at a lovely restaurant called Eatery in the city, and had some good food and a real good time. Seriously, when we all get together, I laugh like a maniac and embarrass myself and everyone at the table. But, that's okay because (usually) they're all laughing right along. It was a wonderfully immature and fantastic evening - the perfect way to welcome in being twenty. I didn't take too many photos, but I did get photos of my friends, and of my birthday pumpkin pie - they stuck a candle in it!

Blouse: Forever 21, Skirt: Goodwill, Tights: We Love Colors, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Coat: Tag sale

We said the word "penis" a lot, and then laughed about it, because we're a very mature and proper bunch of ladies:

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Will Love You 'Till the Wheels Come Off

2011-11-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

Last night was my job's annual gala fundraiser, so I took the opportunity to get a little bit more fancy (just a little!) than my usual daily wear. Goodness me, do I love this dress. I got it from Asos probably about a month ago for the gala (I know, whatever) and was so, so pleased when I tried it on. The color's so fun, and the cut in my opinion is super flattering. I had been waiting SO LONG to wear this dress! It even garnered a few compliments. Well, some older ladies I was working with said it was cute, my younger boss asked if it was "an old dress" (he clarified he meant "vintage" but COME ON), and my other boss called me a 60's gogo dancer. Wins all around, I think! Maybe. All in all, it was a fun night. I had a good time meeting people, getting hit on by creepy older waiters, seeing my bosses all dressed up, and dressing up myself. Oh, and eating delicious food. There's always that.

Dress: Asos, Heels: DSW

Awkward jump

And an awkward landing. I love it.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

We Might Be Strangers

2011-11-02T19:43:00.003-04:00

So, I wasn't planning on doing a post today. Well, really, I was planning on it, but then my pictures turned out, uh, terribly. Mostly because of my face. As you'll notice by the few passable ones, my face is a face of rage. I wasn't even feeling particularly wrathful today or anything! The problem is, when I think I'm smiling coyly, I'm apparently just making this terribly annoyed-looking face. That's a problem for a whole number of social and bloggy reasons. So, note to self - smile bigger, so that when you think you're smiling like an idiot, you'll really just be smiling coyly.

Anyway, I ended up finishing Slaughterhouse Five, and I know how a Vonnegut shaped hole in my universe. Whenever I finish a really good book, I go on for a few days after wishing there was another chapter, or a part two even, just to prolong the wonder. So, I'm currently in that state. Perhaps I'll have to treat myself to another of his books as a little early birthday present. Though, I don't even have enough time to do all of my school work, so, probably not the best idea. I honestly should be doing work right now since the next few days are looking to be super busy and whirlwindy, but frankly, I'd rather just relax for a bit and spend some time in blog world.

Dress: Thrift store, Sweater: Forever 21, Socks: Target, Boots: Famous Footwear, Jacket: Salvation Army, Bag: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Animal Farm

2011-11-01T20:19:00.002-04:00

I found this big red coat at a tag sale a few weeks ago and never looked back. I'm a big fan of coats, but they're generally pretty expensive, so when I found this cute one for about ten dollars, I jumped at it. Not literally, of course, but I was probably more excited than the average person gets about finding a coat. The buttons even have little owls on them! And it's no big secret that I love animals and cute animal prints on my clothes. So, pair the coat with my cat print dress, and I'm practically a zoo. Practically.

On an unrelated note, are any of you Kurt Vonnegut fans? He's one of my absolute favorite authors and people. I've read some of his books (Cat's Cradle is one of my all time favorite books), and I've set a goal for myself to finish his novel Slaughterhouse Five before my birthday this weekend. I always seem to start his books, put them aside for a while, and come back. I've got a ton of school work this week, but I'm determined to take some time and read what I want. Not just Ovid and Fichte. Oh, Fichte. Oh boy.

Dress: H&M, Sweater: Forever 21, Coat: Tag Sale, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Didn't Know I'm Not Invincible

2011-10-31T18:40:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween! Unfortunately, today's not feeling very autumnal or Halloweeny in these parts. If it wasn't for the teeny costumed children knocking on the door I may have forgotten all about the holiday. I was originally going to wear this leather skirt with an orangey sweater, but I really wasn't in the mood for being overtly Halloween. So, I went with dark colors, mostly just because I felt like it, but partly as a nod to the holiday. Do you guys have any plans tonight? All I've got on deck is some quality time with Ovid's love poetry and a bag of candy, but I'm not complaining. Candy is delicious.

Top/Dress, Skirt, Sweater: H&M, Tights: We Love Colors, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

La di da, La di da

2011-10-30T17:03:00.002-04:00

So, to be perfectly honest, I didn't do much this halloween weekend except carve pumpkins and make caramel apples (both good, Halloweeny things, though), and all I'm going to do in the next few days to celebrate is watch Vincent Price movies. But, I had an idea for a costume and figured I'd wear it around for a bit, because, you know, that's cool. So, if you didn't guess, and hopefully you have but if you haven't I understand, I decided to dress up as Annie Hall! I remember when I first saw this movie in my high school film history class, and how funny and wonderful and smart and real I thought (and still think) it was. I also remember loving Annie's outfits, even before I cared much about how I dressed (I was still in my tee shirts and skinnies phase). So, why not dress up as her for Halloween?

Cat pumpkin thats sitting on the table with a candle in it because it's too snowy to put it on the front porch!

Delicious caramel apples that we covered in cut up oreos, sprinkles, and candy bars

Also! The winner of my 300 followers giveaway, according to the Random Number Generator, is

#4, Chelsea!

Congratulations, Chelsea! I'll be emailing you shortly :)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Smells Like Wilderness

2011-10-27T16:23:00.003-04:00

Do you ever put together an outfit that just feels really...right? There are days where I get dressed, and though the outfit looks fine, it just doesn't feel like I should be wearing it. Today's outfit came together surprisingly nicely. After hitting the snooze button for an hour due to the cool, dreary weather outside, I had about twenty minutes to get ready and leave the house. It was kind of like, "I like this dress. It's cold. What sweater matches? It's rainy. Boots for the mud. Still cold. Denim jacket. That hat looks cozy. Aaaaaaand, break!" I always talk about my style being pretty undefined, but I do know that I'm always trying to strike the middle ground between cute/girly and rugged/practical, and I feel like this is pretty close to that. Speaking of rugged, I may as well share my thoughts on men's deodorant (obvious connection, I know). I was in CVS to pick up some deodorant the other day, and since the lady products are right next to the men's, I thought I'd take a gander at the more "masculine scents": Smells like freedom! Smells like wilderness! Smells like pine trees and magic! Smells like awesome! And I couldn't help but think, "Hell, I'd much rather smell like a forest at dawn than a citrus fruit mixed with ginger." I did go with my usual boring deodorant, but am I wrong in thinking those sound so superior? I don't even care If I'm wrong. Or, if this is weird. I don't care SO MUCH that I'm going to go and make the title of this post a man deodorant scent. It's been a long week. I'm very tired. Pardon my tangential deodorantial ways.

Also, if you're somehow still reading, don't forget to enter my giveaway! It closes soon!

Dress: Pretty Penny in Oakland, Sweater: Forever 21, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Tights: Asos, Hat: Hot Topic, Boots: Famous Footwear

Also! I thought I'd share a little DIY I tried out today! Elsie, of A Beautiful Mess, posted this DIY a while back, about how to make song lyric art from a vintage paint by number kit. I couldn't find a paint by number kit, so I used heavy duty scrapbooking paper instead and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. I actually made one with Shins lyrics ("I learned fast how to keep my head up") last Friday, but wanted to try another. So, this one has lyrics from one of my newest favorite songs, Come Here and Love Me by Doug Paisley (it's a beautiful, lovey dovey song that you should all hear). The paper had a vintage postcard print on it, which I loved. I can't wait to add this little DIY to my ecclectic wall of pretty things, which I may have to photograph in full for you soon

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Mish Mosh

2011-10-26T14:32:00.004-04:00

This outfit is a little bit of a mish mosh. Mush mosh? You get the idea. But I think it's at least a fun mush/mish mosh. I don't generally wear heels, but I saw this fun pair at Goodwill for a few bucks and thought they'd be a fun way to change up some pieces I already have. For some reason, I really wanted to pair them with more red tones, so I grabbed my maroon tights. I haven't worn this dress in a long time, partly because it's kind of Hooters-appropriate short on me. But, I ended up taking out the elastic in the waist, so now it falls a bit lower, and it's nice and loose. Huzzah!

Also, thank you, thank you, thank you for your encouragement on my last post. I'm pretty much just trying to stay focussed on the good and the positive. I find, for myself lately, that remembering the good things I have and that I'm doing really helps me deal with frustration and stress. I've been making a lot of changes lately, and it's been exciting. A little scary, but exciting. I'll be turning 20 next week, and I can't help but think of where I am, and where I want to be, and how possible things seem right now.

Oh, and don't forget to enter my giveaway if you haven't yet!

Dress: Forever 21, Cardigan: Zara, Tights: We Love Colors, Shoes: Goodwill, Hat: Modcloth

Giggling because I just almost fell right over. I'm really good at walking (standing?) in heels, clearly.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Looking on the Brighter Side

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

This weekend was, well, less than good. I won't get too into details, as I so often do, but in a nutshell, I've had to deal with some harsh words that have made me extremely sad, then angry, then sad again. I also worked a bunch this weekend and am trying to get ahead on school work in preparation for the next two weeks, which are looking to be kind of crazy town. I love my job, and I like my classes, and I'm trying very hard to look on the bright side and be happy, but there are just some times when things get hectic and sad and stressful, I guess. Hopefully I'll get to carve my pumpkin this week though (I found a cat face stencil!), and also have pumpkin lattes, because pumpkin makes everything better. Also, I got the components for my Halloween costume, which is really solely for blog world because I'm probably not going out since Halloween's on Monday, but it's cool, because I'm excited to dress up and eat peanut butter cups.

I wore this outfit to a reading at work yesterday. It was actually a really nice event, and these two wonderfully talented fiction writers (Stephanie Pintoff and Arthur Phillips, incase any of you are curious) read some excerpts from their new books. I rarely wear practical clothes to work, like this dress, which rides up incredibly easily, but despite that, I like how the outfit came together.

Dress: Tulle, Blouse: Urban Outfitters, Boots: Famous Footwear

300 Followers Giveaway!

2011-10-23T11:58:00.004-04:00

So, I reached 300 followers a bit ago, and I've been looking for something to give away as a thank you to you guys. At the antiques sale last weekend, I found this little vintage purse and thought you guys would like it! I may even throw in some surprise accessories. So, if you're interested, enter!

To Enter:

1. Be a Follower of my blog on either Google Friend Connect or Bloglovin'

2. Leave a name and email address I can contact you at if you win!

Easy peasey! Good luck!

(This giveaway closes Saturday 10/29)

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

A Lion's Heart

2011-10-21T18:00:00.002-04:00

So, I'm updating quite briefly considering I have to leave in about ten minutes for work. Do you guys ever buy articles of clothing together that just work super well with each other? Like I bought this dress and this sweater from H&M in the same shopping trip and have been wanting to pair them, but resisted because I thought it would be weird to wear two newish things together. But, since I didn't know what to wear today, this pre-planned pair was looking pretty good. That, and I technically wore the dress to work Tuesday as well (WHOOPS) though I didn't take pictures. Also, the dress has cats with bowties on it.

Dress, Sweater: H&M, Tights: Asos, Boots: Delia's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Private Eye

2011-10-20T17:52:00.002-04:00

It's been a long time since I've worn my trench coat with its belt, and when I reunited the pair I have to say that the look made me feel like one of those stereotypical private eye detective types - not a bad way to feel, I think. Also, private eye is a pretty strange phrase. I mean, I know it's supposed to imply that you're hired to eye actions that are meant to be private, but I kind of like the idea of having a private eye, like an eye that no one else can see and that you keep hidden for your own personal use. I'm rambling, but it's mostly because I'm very tired and it's now "the weekend," but also because I'm in writing mode and am in the mood to look too closely at words. But yeah, I felt like a private eye in this outfit, and I can see this red skirt being a fun autumn and winter piece (definitely for CHRISTMAS!) as long as I can figure out how to style it.

Skirt, shoes: Urban Outfitters, Blouse: Forever 21, Trench: H&M, Bow: Bethany, Beautifully Regular

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Who Would Be So Cruel to Someone Like You?

2011-10-19T17:51:00.002-04:00

I got a haircut! I was not expecting to get such a haircut, and had no intention of walking out of the salon with this length of hair. Last night, I was caught in the predicament of whether to cut my hair super short (above my chin) or leave it long, and now I've got shoulder length hair. I'm really bad when it comes to my hair. I always have this compulsive need to change it. It's been long-ish since the spring time, and I just needed a change! It's funny. I always end up changing my hair when one of my relationships ends, so I guess we're right on track here? It's a subconscious thing, and it's actually pretty cathartic. Unfortunately the crazy wind-rain made my hair look kind of gross, so just trust that it's a kind of nice haircut.

About this outfit, I don't know where it even came from. All I knew this morning was that I wanted to wear these over the knee socks. I never ever color block, but here I am. COLOR BLOCKING.

Top, Skirt: Forever 21, Socks: Target, Boots: Famous Footwear, Trench: H&M

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Reflections of a Jumping Grandpa Lumberjack

2011-10-17T18:49:00.003-04:00

I wouldn't have normally taken photos on a casual day, but I decided today was a good day to post about some things that have been swirling about in my head for a while now. It's been a while since my last relationship and self-worth post, and I feel it's time for another one. I might as well start by saying that I am highly inclined to self-pity. Highly. If I'm sad, I like to wallow about in the muck of it. I like to be reminded that I'm not alone in feeling upset, and If I am upset, I want you tell me it's okay that I'm sad, that I have a right to be sad. Pathetic is a very easy thing to be, and it's an easy thing to get stuck in.

What really kick-started my thinking about self-pity was a tumblr post I came across. It one of those little text images that said something along the lines of "I hope I've crossed your mind at least once so I can feel less pathetic about all the times I think about you." I posted it to my site, thinking "Well, that's accurate!" and immediately this wave of...sadness? disgust? disappointment came over me. "Who am I?" I couldn't stop asking myself that question all night.

I just got out of a relationship that made me feel unsatisfied, weak, and dependent, and I was letting myself feel weak and dependent on a man I hardly even know. Who am I? I've said this before, but one of the big reasons I got out of that relationship is to build on who I want to be. I'm happy with who I am, but I want to be stronger and more confident in who I am. For years and years I've sunk into labels that I've given myself. "I'm shy and weak, so I'll just have to find a guy who doesn't mind that. Not all guys want confident, independent women." And that was it. I let myself live in that shell I built myself. But I don't want to be weak. I don't want to settle. I don't want to resign myself to the limits that only I'm placing on myself.

I'll often catch myself thinking, "Oh, I wonder what he's doing now" or "He wouldn't like a girl like me" and I stop the thought mid sentence. Comparing yourself to other people and belittling yourself gets you nothing but despair. I want to grow, and these aren't the thoughts that grow. They're the thoughts that keep you uncertain, that keep you insecure, that keep you in that shell you've built around yourself. I don't want to be the girl who is hopelessly pining over a guy she barely knows, hoping somehow she'll be able to prove her worth to him so he'll see just how wonderful a girlfriend I can be. I want to be the girl who can look at a guy, think he's cute, and move on from it until the right thing comes along. I want to be myself and grow as a person, not be constantly trying to desperately prove my worth to people. I want to see my own self-worth, and not expend any effort or thoughts or tears on those who don't. I'd like to think I'm on my way.

Uh, in regards to this outfit, I think I look like a grandpa lumberjack (hence the title). Maybe also a hipster. I was inside writing a paper all day. Think what you will.

Sweater, Jeans: Urban Outfitters, Boots: Famous Footwear, Top: Delia's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Sweater Weather

2011-10-16T17:09:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was quite a wonderful Saturday! We headed out to this tag sale that was being held at this great antique store by my job that I discovered recently. It was fantastic! Well, at least I thought so. I ended up getting two adorable vintage pieces for my wall and a fun read fall coat (it has gold owl buttons!) that you'll be seeing as soon as the weather gets just a bit chillier. There really aren't many antique stores around where I live, but in the town where I work, I'm slowly discovering more and more consignment shops, antique stores, and fun little boutiques that make up for my own neighborhood's terrible lack of them. Afterwards, we headed to the mall, did a little more shopping, and had a nice lunch/dinner. What do you guys call a meal eaten at, like, 3 o'clock? There really should be a dinner/lunch equivalent to brunch, no?

Anyway, for a blustery day of lots of shopping and walking, I opted for a cozy and comfortable outfit. This sweater is oversized and wonderful, and I can see it serving me well as the days get even cooler. Also, this fox pin is really one of my favorite accessories. Someone always comments on it every time I wear it and it's a nice conversation starter :)

Sweater: Forever 21, Jeans: Levi's, Boots: Delia's, Fox pin: Three Blooms on Etsy

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Jack O' Lantern Festival

2011-10-15T10:30:00.000-04:00

So, this has nothing to do with fashion, but last weekend, after apple picking, we went to the most amazing jack o'lantern display I've ever seen: The Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor. It's basically an hour long walk through a world full of intricately carved and arranged jack o' lanterns. Not only was it amazingly impressive, what with the jack o'lantern dragons, dinosaurs, and sunflowers (among other things), but it was so very beautiful - a perfect fall activity. I'm pretty sure it's all sold out for the season - and rightly so - but if you're in the new york area and want to see something fantastic and autumny, I very very highly recommend it. I tried my best to keep my camera steady and capture as many pictures of pumpkins as I could for you guys to see.

Can you spot the kitty pumpkin?

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

You're Just A Riddle In The Sky

2011-10-14T11:41:00.002-04:00

So, my favorite thing to do this fall apparently is to layer sweaters over dresses and skirts. Seriously - I can't stop! I picked up a few new sweaters yesterday shopping with a friend, including this one from Forever 21, which of course meant that today I had to wear one over a dress! Unfortunately, it was just me and the tripod today, and while usually I have pretty good luck with taking my own photos, these all seem to be a bit wonky and framed weirdly. Oh well, you get the picture, hopefully.

Dress: H&M, Sweater: Forever 21, Tights: Asos, Shoes: Ruche, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Girl Sailor

2011-10-11T16:05:00.003-04:00

I'm really digging how some of my outfits lately (really only two recent ones, but still) have been applicable to the titles of Shins songs. But anyway, things have been busy busy busy. This weekend is fall break, which is really only two extra days off, but I've got a lot of work to do before then, and will probably have a lot of work to do during the break as well but, uh, at least I'll have more time to do it? Anyway, I plumb forgot about this sweater until I decided to go through and make a mental note of how many sweaters I have that still fit/aren't too ugly. This sweater used to be way too tight, but now it fits quite nicely. Also, it makes me feel like a sailor, which is a quality I admire in clothing. My grandmother gave me a bunch of her gaudy old jewelry the other day, and I was so excited that one of the items included was this fun cameo pin! I've been wanting cameo jewelry for a while now, and I can see myself wearing this one over and over again.

Sweater: Topshop, Skirt: Forever 21, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Brooch: Grandma's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Apple Picking

2011-10-09T10:30:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the most wonderful day I've had in a long time. It may have been the quintessential autumn experience. In any case, it was fun and beautiful. We headed up to Fishkill Farms to do some apple picking. I've never been apple picking before, but it was so, so much fun! Trekking through muddy, grassy orchards to find apples - which are delicious - and then exploring the pumpkin and strawberry patches was fantastic. I may have even climbed into an apple tree (exciting!). The afternoon was completed with some chilled apple cider and apple cider donuts, both of which were delicious. Later that night, we went to an amazing Jack O' Lantern festival in the area, but I'm saving those pictures for tomorrow's post because there are just so many! God, I really love autumn.

Oh, and just a note on what I'm wearing. This dress is actually the lovely Jasmine's! We're currently doing a little clothing swap. I actually almost purchased this dress a while back, and now I'm borrowing it from her. Thanks Jasmine!

Dress: Jasmine's from Forever 21, Boots: Steve Madden, Socks: Target

First pick!

And it's delicious!

So excited, we're out of focus

Oh, the pumpkins! Possibly my favorite part of fall

Awkward field dancing

What am I doing in this tree?

What am I doing on this haystack?

Cheryl and Mike on the haystack!

So beautiful

Phew, lots of photos! But there was just so much good-ness, I couldn't help but share.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Sea Legs

2011-10-06T16:42:00.002-04:00

These tights got me so many odd looks today. I wear colored tights all the time, as you guys know, but for some reason, green is the color that makes people question my sartorial choices (well, at least enough to give me a look that implies as much). Oh well, I'm still a fan of said tights. Also, they remind me of the Shins song "Sea Legs" due to their being the color of murky lake water, though I'm not sure tights are what James Mercer had in mind when writing the song. Anyway, I'm currently rambling and should really be reading some Shakespeare before going out later, so, uh, off I go!

Sweater, skirt: H&M, Tights: Courtesy of We Love Colors, Boots: Famous Footwear

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

The Times They Are Strange, But They're Bound to Change

2011-10-04T16:39:00.003-04:00

One of the worst parts of breakups, for me, is the doubt and worry they bring. When I was still deliberating my decision, one of the major factors that was keeping me in my relationship was the fear that I would never find someone else who would love me, let alone want to date me. Now, obviously this is no reason to stay with someone, but it was for me. The thought of being alone is terrifying. You don't know how many times I've thought "I'm too weird for anyone to like. Who wants this weird girl who eats pastries like it's nobody's business and spends her Friday nights dramatically lipsyncing to Jack's Mannequin songs?" I was with someone who didn't mind those things about me and couldn't help but question the odds that there was some OTHER guy out there who would do the same. I currently have a bit of a crush on a guy that most likely will not be, uh, "falling in love with me" anytime soon for a multitude of reasons. In the short amount of time that I've known him (read: been irrationally enamored with him), I've thought a million times about how he's just "too good for me": "He's so cute! He's so funny! He's not terrifyingly awkward in social situations! He's probably a hit at parties! He's so nice! He wears plaid! He could never like me." I'm naturally insecure and doubtful of my own worth. One of the reasons I ended my last relationship is because I didn't like the person I had become in that four year span. I was terribly needy, dependent, unhappy, and insecure - all things I do not want to be. And I feel like I'm finally starting to become the person I really want to be, though, I'm still of course in baby steps mode. Today, I was having a particularly doubtful day, and couldn't shake these thoughts much at all. So on my way home I stopped by the park and did some writing and thinking. One of things I thought was that you can't get upset that someone doesn't like what they don't know about you. I'm naturally inclined to hold back when I meet new people. I'm shy, but also weird, which means I overly think about what I share with people and what I don't. It also means that I end up sharing ridiculous things I shouldn't share ("I"M NOT SPECIAL ENOUGH TO TAKE TO A FANCY RESTAURANT,") though that's a different - but related - story. I want to stop worrying about "being too weird for people" and just be myself. In reality, if someone doesn't like the eccentric things that make me who I am, I don't want to be their friend or girlfriend. But I'll never know if they like me or not if I don't give them the chance to see me in all my nerdy, hungry, lipsyncing glory, no. So instead of saying someone's "too good for me," I'd like to be saying "maybe we'd be good for each other," you know? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this stuff. I know my posts have been introspective and break-up related lately, but that's what I'm feeling and thinking, so that's what I feel like I have to share here.

Blouse, Skirt, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Cardigan, Trench: H&M, Tights: We Love Colors

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

When There's A Burning in Your Heart

2011-10-03T18:09:00.003-04:00

Some days, wearing an old band tee is easiest way to feel comfortable and happy. After a night of very little sleep and very many thoughts, waking up to a chilly Monday, I just wanted something simple (and, apparently, I wanted to wear every shade of brown known to man). This is a concert tee from a Death Cab show I went to in 2006 (goodness, that's a long time ago now) and it's one of my favorite band tees. I've given most of my old ones away, some have been stored away incase someday I have awesome kids who like music I liked, and a few stay tucked safe in my closet for days like today. What's your go to comforting garment?

Sweater: Zara, Skirt: Urban Outfitters, Boots: Famous Footwear, Tights: Asos

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Bright Pink

2011-10-02T11:19:00.004-04:00

After work on Friday, I headed into the city for some quality sister time. We ended up doing two of my most favorite activities: eating and shopping. We walked around midtown, went to a few stores I rarely get to go to - Urban Outfitters, Zara, Levi's - and I ended up getting some new Levi's that I am currently wearing just around the house because they are simply too comfy for me not to do so (I wore them out yesterday, too, if that makes it less ridiculous). Afterwards, Cheryl and Mike took me out to a RIDICULOUSLY FANCY restaurant called David Burke Townhouse. It was so fancy it made me slightly uncomfortable. Like, I may have almost eaten a wet-nap because I thought it was a fancy mint, fancy. Or like, there may have been a FERRIS WHEEL OF DONUTS for dessert, fancy. Fancy fancy fancy. Despite my, uh, near wet-nap slip up, the food was yummy, and it was certainly one of the most fun, entertaining dinners I've had.

I got this bright pink skirt from that big ol' Modcloth sale that just happened. It had been sitting on my wish list for months and months, but at eighty dollars it was not making its way to my wardrobe anytime soon. It was reduced to 20 during the sale, and even though pink really isn't much of a fall color, I bought it. It's a fun little skirt, and it'll be interesting to see if I can make it fall/winter appropriate, since I didn't do a very good job of it this time. I look like a bit like an Easter egg, but that's okay, because I liked the outfit anyway.

Blouse, shoes: Urban Outfitters, Skirt: Modcloth, Trench: H&M

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

I Learned Fast How To Keep My Head Up

2011-09-29T17:09:00.002-04:00

So, ladies and (probably not) gentleman, life has been kicking my butt something fierce this week. Well, mainly school and breakup guilt have been kicking my butt, and my butt is not appreciative of said kicking. Things have been stressful, as they're apt to be, and I've really been trying to "keep my head up" above the rising water line of all sorts of anxiety. I'm quite a sensitive lady, and have had lame breakup emotions hanging over my head since the weekend, so I've been feeling quite guilty and selfish. Add on top of that a fairly hectic schedule and tons of school work and you've got one stressed Cole. I don't want to complain, even though that's kind of all I've been doing this post, but I wanted to explain my sparse blog presence as well as express, for you guys and for myself, what exactly has been going on in my head lately.

This outfit, frankly, makes me feel like the mayor of cozy city. It was rainy for most of the day and it was my last day of classes, so I wanted to wear something comfortable, neutral, and cute-ish. I was going to complain about getting caught in torrential downpours while wearing a white blouse and a black bra (which did happen), but it was actually one of the funnier, more stress-relieving parts of the day. Everyone out on campus got soaked, and it was pretty fun running through the rain to shelter, super visible bra or not.

Cardigan, Blouse: H&M, Jeans: Urban Outfitters, Boots: Famous Footwear, Brooch: Mom's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

When You Touch My Face, The Oceans Part

2011-09-26T18:29:00.003-04:00

Today is one of those days. You know, the ones where the universe reminds you in a rather non-sensitive way that you're a dumb, inadequate student, and gives you blisters on the back of your feet that force you to walk to the car barefoot, and makes the weather change drastically so that a denim jacket is not only no longer appropriate but sweat inducing, but then you keep trying to be positive and are all "I happen to like this denim jacket! And these shoes are worth the blisters! And I'm not dumb, I'm AWESOME." You know. So before I go all whiney on you all, though I've been doing plenty of that on twitter today, I'm going to go and try to be a good student and get a decent amount of work done tonight so I can feel less inadequate. Watch out Iliad, HERE I COME. It's going to be a long week, isn't it?

So, I almost didn't take pictures of this outfit because of the whole shoe thing, but I figured if I suffered through wearing them all day for the sake of a cute outfit, there better be pictures to document my doing so. I didn't have any clue what to wear this morning, meaning it was the perfect opportunity to attempt pattern mixing in a haphazard way. I quite liked the end result though.

Blouse: Nordstrom Rack, Skirt: Forever 21, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Craziness: Hereditary

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

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Strictly Business

2011-09-25T10:30:00.000-04:00

I'm not a fan of work clothes. Generally, I think pencil skirts, fitted button downs, and trousers look plain old terrible on me. Then I came across these slacks in H&M, and for $15 dollars mind you. And honestly, part of me just wanted "work clothes" because I have a job, even though the people I work for are generally in jeans but, you know, whatever. So, the pants were flattering, made me feel slightly professional, and were cheap enough for me to not feel guilty if I ended up never wearing them. But here I am, WEARING THEM. I had to go to work today as a site manager (read: sitter in the office for three hours...er?) for someone who had rented the space for their event, and I figured if there was ever a time to wear those pants, this was it. So, wear them I did. And site I managed. While this isn't really my style, per say, I figured it would be fun to show you guys this "professional" outfit anyway.

Pants, blouse: H&M, Cardigan: Gap, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

AND, just for fun, this is the face I make when I hear terribly inappropriate/uncomfortable/saucy music ("Let's get it on, till the early morn, girl!") blaring from the children's birthday party happening across the street:

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Short

2011-09-23T10:21:00.002-04:00

This dress is short. Like, "acceptable to wear in public but just barely" short. Like, "I really shouldn't have worn this to work even though my bosses are casual" short. Like "even though my boss was all 'you look like a cute, cheery gogo dancer today' I should have maybe worn tights" short. I love this dress too much to listen to common sense, though, so I spent most of the day pulling it down in an insecure manner. I mean, with tights I feel perfectly comfortable with the length, so hopefully once it chills up outside this dress will be getting a lot more use!

Dress: thrift store, Trench: H&M, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Real Mature

2011-09-21T18:32:00.003-04:00

So, I hate to get all mushy-gushy here (that's a lie, mushy-gushy posts are the best and I love them dearly), I just wanted to say how much I appreciated your feedback and thoughts on my last post. I definitely got teary (or, uh, maybe outright cried. Maybe.) when I read your sweet, supportive words. My life is in this weird transitional space right now, and it's really rather wonderful to be a part of this community, and to be able to share all of my messy experiences with you all.

I suppose I should talk about what I'm wearing now. Yesterday, it came up at work (read: I brought it up because I'm ridiculous) that my birthday is fairly soon, and that I'm going to be 20, to which one of my bosses was all "We've got a kid on our hands!" or something to that extent. And of course, I replied in my most dignified, adult (read: whiny baby) that I was not, in fact, a kid, and that 20 is a very adult age to be. As you can see, today I am wearing a large bow in my hair and a top covered in tiny deer, and (as you'll see if you scroll down) am twirling like a ballerina just for the heck of it. Clearly, I am well on my way to adulthood.

Blouse/dress: H&M, Skirt: Forever 21, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Bow: Bethany

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

In Which I Wear My Chucks and Talk About Moving Forward

2011-09-19T18:58:00.002-04:00

I’m the sort of person who needs to have a plan. As much as I like the idea of running out somewhere on a whim with friends, If I’m going out, I like to know in advance where we’re going, what time we’re meeting, and who’ll be there when I arrive. When I was with my ex-boyfriend, I loved being able to say that when I would be able to move to California at some point with him, maybe in two years or so. It was nice to have my future planned out because I like plans. As I think we all know, though, plans change. Life throws things at us and we’re forced to respond, and our response alters the trajectory of where we’ll go next. In the past, and even now, I hated uncertainty. I like knowing that I’m doing the right thing and that I’m making good decisions. Even when our lives are relatively stable, though, we don’t often get the assurance that what we’re doing is best, at least in my experience.

Something that’s been really helpful and wonderful for me, though, is listening to the experiences of other people. I’ve found that hearing about peoples’ lives and the choices they’ve made for themselves, from dealing with breakups they never saw coming (or, like me, making the terrifying decisions to end something that had lasted a very long time) to taking the risk of moving someplace entirely new. Hearing someone say that they’ve done something I feel to scared to do on my own makes me think, “Well, maybe I can do that.” I’m so busy telling myself that if something’s not planned, I can’t possibly do it. “I need a boyfriend to move across the country. No one will ever love me like my ex and I made a huge selfish mistake in breaking up with him. I can’t balance work and school. I can’t make new friends.” Am I worried about these things being true? Of course I am. Because these prospects are all terrifying. But, I’m trying my best to embrace the uncertainty of the future as a positive thing. Life right now are wide open. I’m a junior in college, I just started a new job, and I just made a big change in my personal life that I never thought I would make. I’ve been thinking of all of these things as daunting, like everything is out to upset me, and that I’m not capable of being strong and successful. I’m just beginning to look at my life as something full of opportunities for the taking. Sure, I don’t know what’s going to happen or who I’ll meet or where I’ll go, but these are good uncertainties. Things often aren’t as final or limiting as they seem, and though I know I’ll have moments where I throw tantrums and question all of this, I think I’m on the right track.

Just a note about what I'm wearing, since this is a self described "fashion blog." When I met with her, Michal and I were talking about our past fashion misadventures and how we used to dress, and skater shoes and converse came up. Since then I've been wanting to wear one of my old pairs. You'll notice the Bayside lyrics on the toes ("I've made mistakes, but I'll find my way) though I wrote the lines backwards on the wrong feet. There're also some Jack's Mannequin lyrics scrawled on the side, along with a Thoreau quote, and the word "transcend" written on one of the laces. All the words on those shoes seem appropriate for this post, and the idea of looking backwards but moving forward also seems quite relevant.

Dress, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Converse Sneakers

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

You've Got Too Much to Wear on Your Sleeves

2011-09-18T10:30:00.000-04:00

This is what I wore on Friday, to an open mic night at my workplace. The event was pretty fun. A bunch of people from the area came to share some of the things they've been writing lately. Some were good, some were infuriating. Well, mainly one was infuriating man who read poetry children had written and made comments throughout mocking it. That was swell. Poetry is something dear to my heart, and I don't like to see people kick it around. It was really nice to hear a lot of different voices though. My most favorite of the night was this guy who read his children's story to us (he even showed us the pictures!). It was a story about a guy who loves to eat so much, then gets a job at a restaurant, but gets fired because he eats too much! I wanted to be like, "Did you mean MY LIFE?" but I, uh, didn't say that to him. I did tell him that I loved his story though, and he and his wife seemed like just the sweetest people. Overall, it was a nice night. OH, and you folks that like the Shins (should be all of you, really) will appreciate this. One of my bosses at work has the "clap clap clap clap clap clap WOOH!" from the opening of the Shins song "Kissing the Lipless" as his notification sound. It's fantastic, and I'm jealous I didn't think of it first.

Top: Delia's, Skirt: H&M, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Jean Jacket: Salvation Army, Adorable dinosaur pin: Bethany of Bunny Picnic!

Look at the adorable dinosaur pin Bethany sent me! It's the cutest ever, and he and Thoreau are now just hanging out on my jean jacket together. You all should visit her wonderful store!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Meeting Michal!

2011-09-16T10:30:00.001-04:00

So, yesterday I got the opportunity to hang out with one of my most favorite blog pals, Michal of North Country Girl! She and her friend Erin are in the city for the week, so we decided to indulge in some tea, scones, and sandwiches at Alice's Teacup. Let me just say, these ladies are a hoot and a half. I don't think I stopped laughing or talking the whole time I was with them. Michal is just as wonderful, funny, and delightful (I've been using that word SO MUCH lately) as she is in person, and I had a great time getting to better know her, and meeting her best friend Erin, who's just as awesome. There was much talk of blogging, unfortunate fashion misadventures (pink velour tracksuit, anyone?), and philosophical discussions of the Aristocats and Cinderella. Afterwards, we stopped into an American Apparel store to, well, basically mock everything they stocked. Fun! We ended the afternoon taking a few pictures in Central Park, and then parted ways as I ran through traffic to catch my bus home. I had SUCH a wonderful time with Michal and Erin, and I hope I get to see them again soon!

Tea! I had the Indian Chai and it was lovely.

Hummus Sandwich!

Pumpkin Scone!

Michal was wearing such a cute outfit! Denim vests are the best, seriously.

Hooray!

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Three Ring Circus

2011-09-13T17:19:00.002-04:00

At first, the only thought that came to mind concerning this outfit was "delightful." It's a very cutesy, cheery, and downright delightful outfit (a bit too delightful, probably). As I thought more about it throughout the day, though, I realized the outfit really reminded me of a circus. Bear with me here. The pinstripes on the skirt reminded me of the stripes on the circus tent, the animals on my belt were like the animal performers, and my top just seemed like something a clown might wear (hopefully, it's a chic clown).

Today's been a good day. I'm trying really hard to appreciate the good things in my life, like my new job, and see the positivity in most things. I've struggled with anxiety for a really long time (I'll have to do a tmi post on that soon) and with my breakup, school starting, and a new job, it hasn't been easy for me to be focused and happy. I'm hoping though that with time, I'll be able to work through what I'm dealing with right now, and come out of it a much better, more...well, delightful, person.

By the way, is it just me, or does my face look slightly demented in most of these photos? Maybe that's just my natural appearance?

Blouse: Modcloth, Skirt, Shoes: Urban Outfitters, Belt: thrifted

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Pitching Pennies at the Moon

2011-09-12T18:16:00.003-04:00

Goodness me, it's been a long time since I posted! Well, to me five days is a long time. Last week was my first week of classes AND my first week working, so towards the end I was forced to prioritize, and unfortunately blogging fell to the back of the "important things" pack. I've missed taking pictures (especially since I wore a lot of outfits I liked while I was away) and sharing my thoughts with you guys, so hopefully I can get my business together and do everything I need and want to do. This weekend was one of the busiest I've had, going to FNO and seeing friends, hosting an event for my job, and trying to get all of my school work done. I'm not the best at balancing things, since generally I either have a job or am a student, but I'm hoping to get the hang of this whole multi-tasking thing soon.

Today I went pretty simple with my outfit choice. Skirt, shirt, shoes, and hair in a messy bun. What can I say? It's Monday and I'm sleepy. I picked this outfit out last night, and was not too inclined to put it on this morning, but I couldn't come up with anything better so I stuck to my original plan. I love this shirt, but due to it's awkward length I don't wear it much. Hopefully I'll be able to come up with some new ideas for it soon.

Top: Asos, Skirt: Urban Outfitters, Sensible shoes: Mom's

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Rainy Day

2011-09-06T16:36:00.003-04:00

Today is my favorite kind of day. The cozy kind where it's chilly and rainy out so you can cuddle up inside with a sweater and a good book (or in my case, August Wilhelm von Schlegel's thoughts on Germany in the Romantic era?). I had an early class this morning, so I couldn't stay in bed and laze about, but I was able to get home early as well, just as the rain was picking up. Speaking of my good friend Schlegel, this would be my first week of classes! I don't know why I added that exclamation point, as I'm not yet too excited about any of my classes. This semester I'm trying new subjects and trying to push myself, which also means trying to convince myself I'm just as capable as anyone else in my classes. I'll be taking a history course on Romantic Europe, a literature class called Allegories of love, and a poetry workshop that doesn't run like any workshop I've ever taken before (I haven't had it yet though. Thursday!). Last year was a very comfortable year study wise, except for my poetry. So, while I'm a big fan of comfort and stability, I'm kind of forcing myself to try some new things this year.

By the way, I just wanted to mention that I was featured on the We Love Colors style blog today! It's really exciting, and I'm so flattered. In a fun coincidence, I wore my new We Love Colors tights today, since it was cold enough to wear tights and not die of heat stroke. Hooray!

Dress, cardigan: H&M, Boots: Famous Footwear, Tights: c/o We Love Colors

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Make Your Own Kind of Music

2011-09-05T10:48:00.005-04:00

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Whenever I tell people how much I love Mama Cass, and it's been quite a frequent occurance lately, they kind of just chuckle at me. Then, I force them to listen to her greatest hits record, and they start tapping their toes secretively and mumble, "Well I guess it's not that bad." I picked up one of her records at the Amoeba in Berkeley a few months ago, and I've been hooked since. Her music is fun, simple, and well said. Her music has been quite helpful in recent weeks, particularly because she's so hopeful and sure things will get better. The first song I heard of hers was Make Your Own Kind of Music (her outfit is fantastic in that video) which is a wonderful song and always puts me in a good mood. After seeing a few videos of her performing, I saw that she had a really cool style. Her outfits are often composed of bright patterns and colors, knee-high gogo boots, and loose, flowing dresses. So, though I don't have nearly as cool a wardrobe as she seemed to have had, I decided to put together an outfit inspired by Mama Cass the best I could. While I don't know how much I look like Mama Cass, I think I at least got the decade sort of right. Here's what I came up with:

Dress, Purse: Vintage, Blouse: Forever 21, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

If anyone's interested, a few more recommendations for some of her songs that I love are Move In A Little Closer, Baby, It's Getting Better, and Don't Let The Good Life Pass You By, though they're all delightful.

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Positive Energy

2011-09-02T17:40:00.002-04:00

This blog's become a bit of a mopey place as of late. I'm not one of those people that can separate my real life from my writing, so when real life gets messy so do my poems and, of course, this blog. BUT, I'm trying to stop with the mope and start with the, uh, hope? I wanted it to rhyme, but the first word I thought of was "grope," and that's just not appropriate. For example, today I took a drive up to my internship to see if I could get my keys and such, but no one was there (I think?) so I hovered around like a creep for a little bit. Then, as I left, I may or may not have backed into a planter that was connected to the building and sped away terrified. At first, I was all, "I AM A TERRIBLE INTERN AND A CREEP" but then I was all, "actually, that was kind of comical, and I'm okay with that." Now, I don't know if I should have shared that since my bosses may or may not read my blog (who am I kidding, they probably don't, but they DO have the url), but I thought it was funny (mostly).

This outfit is quite casual since I was just running errands (creeping out at my internship and buying presents at the mall), and though I'm more comfortable in a skirt, something about running errands makes me want to wear jeans and throw my hair up in a silly bun.

Jeans: Levi, Blouse: J. Crew via Goodwill, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Nicole

Crazy Lady In Red

2011-09-01T17:45:00.003-04:00

I'm stressed. There, I said it. I couldn't think of any other way to start this post. Back to school is always a crazy time, but add on a high level of emotional turmoil and VOILA: stress. I've spent the past two days registering for classes which, like always, involves me running around the campus, scheduling interviews, going to those interviews, fretting about not liking some classes, worrying about what to take and, ultimately, stressing about whether after this fantastic process I will get into the three classes I ultimately decided I want. It's not all bad. Since everyone (mostly) is stressed and frantic this week, everyone is also very surprisingly easy to talk to, and while I am what one might call "uber shy" I find myself chatting up everyone I end up next to. There's also going to talk to the teachers I love (nerd) and having a good chat about everything currently driving me all crazytown.

This outfit is kind of the product of my panic. Red is generally the color of stress and or emergencies, and I'm wearing a whole lot of it. Also, it is no where near sweater weather, but I want it to be chilly and rainy out so I can have a reason to hide under my blankets. So, I wore a sweater anyway, despite the bright sun and heat. The fox pin is simply because I like foxes.

Sweater: Gap via Goodwill, Skirt, Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Until tomorrow,
Crazy Lady (Nicole)