My Year in Hair

A lot has happened in the last year, including important events like a new job. The one thing that has changed more than anything, though, is my hair! Rather than doing a year-end outfit recap, I give you 2010 in hair...

January Sponsorships Available

It's not too late to reserve a sponsorship for January (my birthday month)! Email me at kansascouture@gmail.com for stats and rates if you're interested.

The Bee's Knees

Sweater: Banana Republic via Plato's Closet, $4 // Cardigan: Forever 21, $18 // Jeans: Forme, $22 // Necklace: Amanda's Boutique, gift // Boots: Target, gift // Hat: Vintage, gift

I used this outfit to show off a few of my favorite Christmas gifts, including this darling bee locket my little sister gave me. For those who don't know, I have a serious affinity for bees. Coupled with the little birds, it's just perfect. 

 Maybe the holidays threw me out of whack, but I feel like I'm in a bit of a slump. It seems like I say that a lot, huh? Often these lulls in inspiration last only a day or two, and the most effective way of combating them, for me, is acknowledgment. By proclaiming it on here, I'm much more likely to do something about it!

I did do a lot of cleaning today, which included hanging up the embarrassingly large pile of clothes that had accumulated on my bedroom floor. I rediscovered lots of stuff I haven't worn in awhile, so hopefully that'll be just the jolt I need.

After all, the fresh start of a new year is just around the corner!

Evergreen

Blouse: Tucker for Target, $26 // Cardigan: TJMaxx, $10 // Jeans: Courtesy of Fossil // Boots: Seychelles via Gilt, $20 after credit

And just like that, Christmas is over! After all the anticipation, it seems like the big day passed in the blink of an eye, but it was a lovely holiday. Though I'm a little wistful, now I can relax and get caught up on life. I have some time off work, then New Year's Eve, then my birthday, so there's plenty to look forward to. And I also have several new items to debut on the blog. 

The winner of the Spice Rack giveaway is Elisabeth. I will email you with details.

Merry Christmas!

Matryoshka

Coat: Old Navy, $50 // Jeans: Forme, $20 // Boots: Forever 21, $30 // Headband: Forever 21, $3 // Sweater and cardigan: GAP, purchased with gift card courtesy of Lucky Magazine // Blouse: Target, $28

Sorry for the lull in outfit posts! In addition to Christmas craziness, yesterday was my fella's birthday. It's been the best kind of busy -- days filled with preparation, anticipation and celebration.

These shots were taken yesterday during a day of Kansas City fun. We played hooky and enjoyed good food, drinks, ice skating and a movie (Black Swan -- see it if you haven't already!). This was after the movie, hence the disheveled, bunchy sweater.

The winner of the Le Mode Accessories giveaway is Jess. Email me to claim your prize!

herCatwalk.com Giveaway

Win this fabulous clutch courtesy of herCatwalk.com, a new fashion neighborhood launching this winter. To enter, join their community pre-launch on facebook and leave a comment on this post. Once you become a Catwalker, you will also be eligible for their daily giveaways!

You can get up to three bonus entries by submitting outfit photos to submissions@hercatwalk.com. Include your full name with your submission and leave additional comments on this post for each photo you submit.  

Contest ends December 29th at 9:00 a.m. CST. Open to international readers. Winner will be chosen at random.

The Spice Rack Giveaway

Win a $30 credit to online vintage boutique the Spice Rack!


Simply leave a comment on this post with the name of your favorite item. One comment per person. Contest ends Friday, December 24th at 9:00 a.m. CST. Open to domestic readers only. Winner will be chosen at random.

The Great Outdoors

Top: Thrifted, $2 // Shorts: Old // Tights: Target, $5 // Sweater: Forever 21, $18 // Shoes: Seychelles via Gilt, $20 after credit

Ahhh, a good old-fashioned, properly photographed outfit post. It's been too long. I really wish quality photography wasn't an essential part of fashion blogging, but it undoubtedly is. It seems like good outfits can be all but ruined by a poor photo, while mediocre outfits can shine with excellent shots. I'm not sure where this outfit falls on the spectrum, but I like it. Above all else, I was just excited to get pictures outside during daylight hours. What an accomplishment!

To show off my new boots, I went with the trusty tights and shorts combo. Any inhibitions about wearing red socks with green boots quickly disappeared when I realized Christmas is a mere nine days away! I'm super excited but so not ready for the big day. How about you?

Le Mode Accessories Giveaway

Win the necklace of your choice from Le Mode Accessories! Simply leave a comment with the name of your favorite necklace. For bonus entries, follow Le Mode on Twitter, like Le Mode on Facebook and leave separate comments on this post saying  you have done so. The contest ends next Wednesday, December 22 at 9:00 a.m. CST. A winner will be randomly selected. Contest open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

Candyland

Turtleneck: TJMaxx, $10 // Trousers: GAP via Goodwill, $4 // Shoes: Payless, $20 // Hat: Payless // Necklace: Courtesy of Le Mode Accessories

Today's outfit started with this pretty floral bib necklace. I thought it would really pop against a purple turtleneck. The festive background is a remnant from a retro cocktail Christmas party we had over the weekend. I will share photos of that soon.

Check back tomorrow for a Le Mode Accessories giveaway!

Sponsor Gift Guide

Is it just me, or is Christmas sneaking up fast? While I'm enjoying the season, it's going far too quickly! I have to remind myself that there is still time to get my shopping done. With that in mind, I did some browsing on my sponsor's sites and culled some of my favorite present ideas.

ModCloth

Check out the apartment section for a treasure trove of charming gifts!

 (Clockwise) Cutting board, corkscrew, toothbrush holders, bookends, tray


The Spice Rack

Super affordable options for the vintage-lover in your life!

Printed blouse, Ferragamo pumps, long-sleeved blouse

Le Mode Accessories 

One-size-fits-all jewelry and handbags for the trendy ladies on your list!

 Statement necklace, clutch, locket

Scarpasa

Cute, comfortable, quality shoes for the stylish lady on the go.

Sequin pump, patent pump

Roots

Shirt: On loan from Leslie Kay // Blazer: Vintage, thrifted, $3 // Jeans: Courtesy of Jessica Simpson Collection // Shoes: Courtesy of Wanted // Beret: Forever 21, $8

I love showing my Kansas pride, and what better way than with one of LOLA artist Leslie Kay's beloved tees. Since the shirt has some attitude, I went with an edgy look featuring Jessica Simpson tuxedo jeans, cool buckle flats from Wanted and a snazzy sequin beret.

This is the last of my LOLA posts, and you know what that means: the sale starts tomorrow! If you live in the area, head over to Van Go between 12 and 7 on Saturday or between 12 and 5 on Sunday. Support independent artists and shop local this Christmas!

Color Collision

Shirt: Urban Outfitters, $10 // Sweater: Thrifted, $1 // Jeans: Forever 21, $15 // Shoes: Merona via Plato's Closet, $6 // Earrings: Courtesy of Awava // Armwarmers (see below): On loan from KitMit

While I love bold colors, I tend to use them fairly conservatively by pairing them with neutrals. Lately, though, I've had the urge to mash up bright hues to create crazy combinations. This ensemble started with these gorgeous beaded earrings from LOLA participant Awava, a fair trade organization that provides economic empowerment to women in Uganda. From there I added the blue cardigan and fuchsia shoes. All in all, it's a pretty basic outfit, but the colors make it feel fun!

Now that we're in the thick of winter, keeping warm has become a priority. Luckily, there are lots of cute outerwear and accessory options out there, like these adorable handmade armwarmers by LOLA artist KitMit!

My Fair Lady

Dress: Envy, $20 // Shoes: Vintage, thrifted, $2 // Belt: Vintage, thrifted, $1  // Headband: Urban Outfitters, $5 

The other evening I ran into Salvation Army to look for a couple of specific items. It was supposed to be a "quick thrift trip," but I immediately realized that, for me, that's a blatant oxymoron. While it wasn't as brief as intended, it was efficient and moderately successful. As is so often the case with thrifting, I didn't find what I was looking for, but I did find some great stuff including a vintage lion belt and some suede mary janes. I knew a ladylike look was in order.

Sorry for the yucky indoor pictures! Sadly, I think these will be commonplace throughout the winter. The short days coupled with a full-time job (plus a commute) makes it hard to get good shots. Not to mention, it's freezing outside! At the very least, I will try to improve my indoor picture-taking skills.

On a lighter note, the LOLA Giant sale is this weekend! Here are the details:

Van Go (715 New Jersey)
Saturday, December 11th, 12 - 7
Sunday, December 12th, 12 - 5

As we count down the final days leading up to the sale, I have a few more local, handmade items to feature!

Here on Earth

Dress: Forever 21, $18 // Tights: Gift // Socks: Forever 21, $2.50 // Boots: Wild Man Vintage, $15 // Necklace: On loan from Feather Spring Arts

Today's outfit had me feeling rather earthy with its Southwestern color palette, leather accessories and lovely wrapped geode necklace by LOLA artist Feather Spring Arts.

Prim & Proper

Shirt: TJMaxx, $7 // Bow: Belt from a different shirt // Jeans: Forever 21, $15 // Shoes: Payless, borrowed

 

I've found that I tend to dress rather seriously on Mondays. Perhaps it's a subconscious attempt to jolt myself out of weekend mode. Granted, my version of a pulled-together ensemble involves jeans. But, hey, I work at an ad agency. That's how we roll. And did you get a load of that grandiose bow? I mean business!

Thrifty Gift Guide

One of my favorite aspects of the holiday season is gift-giving! In a perfect world, I would have an unlimited budget to shower my friends and family with the perfect presents. Much like shopping for my closet, however, creativity and thriftiness are key. I've found that even if you buy a gift for $3 at Salvation Army, adding a small personal touch will make it priceless! Without further ado, here are some budget-friendly (but still special) holiday gift ideas. After all, the old saying really does ring true: it's the thought that counts!

1. Buy a quirky cookie jar from a thrift store and fill with homemade treats.

2. Add studs, stitching or buttons to a vintage clutch or thrifted sweater. 

3. If you're artistically inclined, paint or draw a custom piece that has special meaning.

4. Make some delicious candy, place in pretty packaging and present with a handmade card.

5. Find a unique vase at a thrift store to house a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers. 

6. Sew something simple like a potholder or tote with cute recycled fabric. 

7. Knit a scarf or some other cool yarn creation.

8. Curate a collection of kitschy vintage mugs and give with a pound of coffee to the caffeine-addict(s) in your life.

9. Customize a cheap knit cap with a bow or fabric flower.

10. Has your sister or best friend repeatedly professed love for a garment you own? Give it to her!

11. Find an interesting old tin and put a vintage necklace or watch inside. 

12. Serenade your sweetheart with a mixed CD of thoughtfully selected tracks. Bonus points for original sleeve artwork!

I know this list is pretty limited in scope, but hopefully there's something here to inspire anyone who is strapped for cash this season. Chances are, if you're excited to give it, they will be excited to receive it! Happy, happy holidays!

Color Me Happy

Dress: Forever 21, $20 // Sweater: Old Navy via Salvation Army, $4 // Boots: Forever 21, $26 // Scarf: On loan from Kate E. Burke

I have another beautifully detailed handmade scarf to show off today! This one by LOLA artist Kate E. Burke of Honeytree Gallery. Inspired by the bright embroidery, I pulled out a bold orange dress that I've only worn once before. I thought I didn't like it anymore, but layering it up in a new way gave me a fresh perspective.

Happy, happy Friday! What are you doing this weekend? With party-filled weekends on the horizon, I want this one to be low-key and productive with chores, Christmas shopping and plenty of rest. Also, keep an eye out for my Thrifty Gift Guide!

December Sponsors

Along with the awesome sponsors you've met before, Scarpasa and ModCloth, there are some exciting new partners I would like to introduce.

The Spice Rack, operated by Kansas City blogger the Concrete Catwalk, is an affordable online boutique filled with vintage treasures!

Le Mode Accessories is an online accessory boutique that offers trendy jewelry and handbags at a reasonable price.

Her Catwalk is a brand new online fashion community. Leading up to their site launch, they are hosting daily giveaways.

It's going to be a great month with multiple giveaways as well as a sponsor gift guide!

Ultra Violet

Sweater: Thrifted, $3 // Skirt: Lucca Couture, courtesy of Lucky Magazine // Tights: HUE via TJMaxx, $5 // Shoes: Forever 21, $26 // Scarf: On loan from New Flight

To highlight this pretty cotton jersey scarf, handmade and embroidered by LOLA artist New Flight, I added another pop of purple with the tights. A slightly metallic grey skirt and rugged sweater complete the look.

It's interesting how my new hair color is affecting my style choices. While I typically gravitate toward warm, earthy tones, I've found myself much more apt to wear both cool, icy shades like silver and lavender as well as bold, primary colors like bright red. Also, my eye make-up has gone from brown to black. I'm reveling in the fun little changes.

Take-Offs & Landings

Sweater: Vintage, thrifted, $3 // Jeans: Forme, $20 // Shoes: Forever 21, $26 

Longtime readers of my blog have seen this sweater once before. It made quite an impression the first time around but was neglected until I unearthed it from a forgotten box of winter clothes this morning. I kept the outfit simple so this dramatic piece could take center stage. It looks so much better with the sleeves spread out. If only I could pretend to be an airplane all day long! Alas, my co-workers might think I've lost it, and my arms would get tired. C'est la vie.

Keep an eye out for more featured pieces from LOLA artists this week!

More Fun

Dress: Forever 21 via Plato's Closet, $10 // Sweater: Forever 21, $18 // Tights: Target, $5 // Socks: Gift // Boots: Forever 21, $30 // Necklace: Antique Mall, $6

I had the hardest time getting out of bed this morning. It was downright blustery, and I'm definitely still easing into my regular work schedule after the break. Rather than letting my grogginess dictate a sloppy outfit, I tried to put together a respectable ensemble to brighten my mood. My newly lightened locks certainly helped! When I first dyed my hair a few months back, I was already toying with the idea of going lighter, and I'm so glad I did! I love it. Big props to my stylist, Teri at Green Room Salon. As always, she did a masterful job!

Giving Thanks

Coat: French Connection via Gilt, purchased with credit // Jeans: Courtesy of Fossil // Boots: Wild Man Vintage, $15 // Hat: Forever 21, $8 // Scarf: GAP, thrifted, $1 // Barrette: Courtesy of Mixed Media

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. Mine was perfectly low-key including my outfit. My priority was staying comfortable and warm, but I wanted to add a festive touch. This sweet little barrette by LOLA artist Mixed Media totally did the trick. 

Now that Thanksgiving has passed, Christmas is in full swing! I adore Christmas time and kicked off the season yesterday by putting up some decorations, listening to my favorite Christmas songs, sipping egg nog and watching Love Actually with friends. Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for my Thrifty Holiday Gift Guide and other holiday features.

December Sponsorships Available

Spread the word about your business just in time for the holiday shopping season! Email me at kansascouture@gmail.com for additional information and my affordable rates.

Faux Friday

Cardi: Target, $10 // Jeans: Courtesy of Fossil // Boots: Courtesy of Famous Footwear // Scarf: Target, $13 // Hat: Payless // Cuff: On loan from Butternutsquash

Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, I was definitely in a Friday frame of mind this morning and found myself reaching for a simple, casual outfit. There were, however, a few details that made this ensemble feel special. The bold chartreuse color of the cardigan. My new leopard print scarf that I anticipate wearing constantly. And, most of all, this eco-chic cuff by LOLA artist Butternutsquash. Can you believe it's made out of cardboard? The artist specializes in jewelry and home decor made from recycled materials and found objects.

Are you going to shop this weekend? I tend to avoid the Black Friday madness, but I will probably make it out at some point. For all you online shoppers, my sponsor Scarpasa is having an incredible sale right now! Save 50% off sitewide November 25 - 28 with the code Friday2010.

In case I don't manage to post tomorrow, I just wanted to wish you all a happy holiday. There are many things I'm thankful for this year including everyone who reads this blog! It truly means so much to me.