give room for the universe to work for you, let go...

on a personal note... 

The title of this post is a quote from one of my favorite inspirational voices, Mastin Kipp. After reading this earlier today, I couldn't help but laugh to myself... or maybe at myself? This letting go thing is actually very difficult. You can read those words so effortlessly, then repeat them to yourself over and over again with the intention of leaving a permanent mark. But it takes such courage, such persistence in thought, and such a powerful will to put it into practice. 

It has been a rough couple of weeks for me... from almost quitting my job (sounds like a pretty stupid thing to do in this job market but you would completely understand if you wore my shoes for a day) to almost cutting off a long time friend to being upset with my S.O. to stumbling over an interview for a potentially great job. After all of this happening within the past week, I was feeling hopeless. I felt as if I had completely lost control over my life... and maybe I have?

Though, I think this is exactly what I needed. I had reached my tipping point and now I'm ready to just LET GO. Letting go of this need to have everything go my way. Letting go of these expectations I have for myself based on where others are (or seem to be). Accepting that struggle, heartache, confusion, and upset are a part of life, just as joy, accomplishment, prosperity, and peace of mind. We need to boldly deal with both facets of life in order to be balanced and healthy and not to mention, appreciative. 

I am allowing the universe to work for me... you should to : )

with love,

alessandra 

xoxo

a picture I took in Phoenix of a pretty batch of flowers... it's always nice to stop and take in nature's beauty... appreciating the "little" things in life will help us to let go of the "big things"

A more comfortable toner... Lancome's Tonique Comfort

We all know that our morning and evening routines should consist of washing, toning, and moisturizing our faces. Sometimes there's more to it depending on the needs of your skin. Toning is especially important for cleansing purposes and for shrinking pores to prevent dirt and bacteria from penetrating the skin. I have very sensitive skin and I noticed that the toners I used, while they were great products, were a little too harsh for me. I have since switched to Lancome's Tonique Comfort. It has a smoothing formula made with honey and almond extract for those of us who can't use the overly stringent toners out there. AND... it moisturizes while toning. Try it out for only $25 and tell me what you think!

The most anticipated collab of the year!

Artsy graphic tees, dainty dresses, and an assortment of tweed and faux leather. 

Karl Lagerfeld has once again joined in on the fashion world's spree of co-branding ventures. On Wednesday, August 3, 2011, he revealed his complete line for Macy’s. For him, collabs are nothing new, as he has previously worked with H&M, Hogan, and a host of other designers and fashion houses. This 45-piece collection is fundamentally Karl Lagerfeld and you will be able to see variations of his personal style within each item. Some of the tees even have an image of Lagerfeld on them. I’m sure these will have no problem selling.

There’s classic white and black, a mix of floral prints and sheer blouses along with random yet wanted pops of color. This line aims to please the feminine, the minimalist, and the rocker at an affordable price. The collection will range from about $49-$150.

In a recent release, Karl Lagerfeld stated, “To me Macy’s is the perfect department store in the US where everybody can find what they’re looking for without ruining their budget.” (via fashionista.com)  Mark your calendars for August 31^st because that’s when you’ll be able to get your favorite items online. If you’re not one for online shopping, the line will soon be available in 235 Macy’s Department stores!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

Alessandra 

   

My Southwestern Fashion Finds

It wouldn't be a vacation without a little bit of shopping, right? To my surprise, during my recent trip to Arizona, my fashion find was not in downtown Phoenix or at the Biltmore Fashion Park. It was hiding in a small mom and pop shop in the quaint town of Sedona (uptown). In the midst of all of the shops selling tons and tons of Native-American inspired jewelry and dreamcatchers (and you'll see PLENTY of those store types) was a store called Joe Wilcox Western Wear specializing in Southwestern apparel. This is where I picked up these boots:

I can't wait to wear them!!! 

Besides the boots, I picked up some friendship bracelets and this really unique cuff, all of which were imported from Africa. These I got from a small but beautiful shop in old town Scottsdale. 

Please visit their site, they have some gorgeous (and authentic) African and traditional Southwestern pieces of art, jewelry, pottery, home decor, etc.! 

www.africabydesignimports.com!

BONLOOK

I've spent the past day or two doting over the sunglasses and prescription glasses on this site called BONLOOK. The styles are cool, the prices are even cooler. Even the names of some of the glasses are cool, for instance...

MORNING WOOD

SMOOTH CRIMINAL

Both, only 60 bucks. Cool. 

And anyone who knows me is fully aware of my almost 4-year old Versace specs that need to be retired sooner rather than later. Poor things.

Check out BONLOOK and tell me what you think! 


And yes, I'm done with my over usage of the word cool.


xoxo,
Alessandra

WANT VINTAGE? SHOP HERE.

Atlantis Dry Goods by @sea_of_shoes 

(Jane Aldridge) 

This site has a breathtaking collection of accessories that you won't find anywhere else. Need some affordable, unique pieces to jazz up your look? Shop here! 

Visit her blog! 

Red Velvet Boutique by @RedVelvetShop 

(Emma and Elsie)

I can't believe I didn't know about this site before! Red Velvet is noteworthy for its bold assortment of quirky and offbeat clothing, accessories, and other items (like vintage cameras!!). Founded by three likeminded and determined women (Elsie Flannigan, Rachel Denbow and Emma Chapman), the company and brand has grown to exceptional heights. Their storefront, Red Velvet Boutique and Sweet Shoppe, also offers cupcakes and bubble tea! Unfortunately it's in Springfield, Missouri... The women have also started a women's dress line! Be sure to click the link above to shop and while you're at it, visit Elsie's blog. You could spend hours on there. Literally. 

Vist Elsie's blog! 

Upcoming Events in the DC Area

Here's a list of some fun and fashionable events happening in the DC area:

• TODAY! KNO Clothing Happy Hour: July 12th, 2011 at 6:30 PM, Cities Restaurant and Lounge. A great clothing company with a great purpose, to mitigate homelessness. Fashion and philanthropy... what could be better?

• The KAS Collection is an assortment of unique, high fashion designs. They will celebrate their 1 year anniversary with a fashion show. Be there July 16th, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the National Harbor. Get tickets here!

• Bethesda Row Sidewalk Sale... Do I need to say more? Come take a look at the areas best pieces at the beautiful Bethesda Row July 22nd-23rd, 2011.

• DC Fashion Week: September 19th-25th, 2011... Tickets are a little pricey for the fashion show events but you have time to purchase them! The shows are sure to be an eclectic mix of local and international styles that you don't want to miss out on!

Want to add an event to this list? Contact me.