Wildwood Weekend

A few weekends ago I went to Wildwood for a Ultimate Frisbee tournament (well, my friend went for the tournament, I went to drink on the beach). Other than the obvious issue of 'oh shit, I haven't owned a legit bathing suit since I was twelve', I knew I wanted to pack light and live in the same outfit the entire weekend. I didn't want to look like I was trying too hard, but I wanted to look cute and stylish at the same time. My anchor chambray shirt from Old Navy, my Beatles inspired tank from Ross, and my super cheap shorts from Walmart came together as the perfectly comfortable combination. If it got too hot I tossed off the chambray, and the tank was long enough to work as a coverup when I wanted to swim. Admittedly, it wasn't the easiest outfit to pee in (especially since I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit underneath it all), but I needed an excuse to avoid the rather fresh Port-A-Potty, anyway.

I'm not a sucker for brand name labels, but when you're going to be shaking sand out of it for weeks to come, you don't want to be donning your $500 outfits anyway. Along with being super cheap, all of these pieces are super durable and actually look better with a bit of roughing up from the salt water and wind. The chambray was the most expensive piece, probably about $25, and the top from Ross was only $10 and so incredibly soft that I didn't even bother trying it on. I very rarely buy clothing from Walmart (actually, I think these pair of shorts were the first thing I ever bought), but it's almost impossible for me to buy shorts. I feel like they always accentuate in all the wrong places, but these were looser fitting (and so damn cheap) that they were a no-brainer summer must.

I got the belt while on a desperate search for accessories that would add some glitz to my plain black dress for New Year's Eve (GASP! Black and brown?! I know, I know, I was frazzled). I honestly can't remember if I got it from Old Navy or Target because my mind was all scrambled trying to accessorize, but I literally wear this belt with everything. It's a perfect neutral color with just a little bit of shine, and I love the braided structure.

And the most important accessory of the day was my $4 shades from Charlotte Russe! Again, I'm not good at owning nice, expensive things. But if there's the possibility that I'm going to drunkenly misplace them, have them swept away into the ocean on a particularly strong wave, shattered by a misguided frisbee, or carried off by a revengeful seagull--okay, okay, you get it. Cheap is the way to go.

Almost just as important was my shoe choice. If I know I'm going to be walking around a lot I usually grab something a little more supportive. But treading in wet sand is a job for sandals. I've had these babies since last summer and they've definitely got some wear to them, but they're still going strong. Have you started to see a pattern yet? When I like something, I REALLY like something, and wear it until it can't be worn no mo'. These are really comfortable and didn't budge while I was dragging a cooler full of beer, food, and ice from field to field. Alright, while I was trudging alongside the person who was dragging the cooler full of mostly beer. These probably cost about $25 from Target, and I'm sure they've got similar styles this summer.

What are your favorite summer clothes and accessories that you don't mind having beat up a little?

Blog Rebranding: Curvy & Cheap

I'm a lot of things, but when it comes to fashion and style I'm almost always cheap and curvy. Over the past year I've been losing weight, and it's almost been shocking to see the transformation because there wasn't really one day where I sat down and decided I was going to make this happen. Honestly, a lot of the weight loss had to do with the fact that I had graduated college. I was no longer spending every waking hour putting together my senior portfolio while still trying to be awake enough to sit through a history class at 8 in the morning. My food options were no longer just late night pizza and milkshakes. My free time could be spent working out (although, more realistically, it was spent applying to endless amounts of jobs). Craigslist and I spent some serious quality time together.

It was almost kinda easy. I just started making healthier choices. I switched to almond milk and reduced my carb intake by only buying whole grain or veggie pasta, by choosing flatbread that had 100 calories per serving. I was just making a conscious effort to choose lower calorie or reduced fat options whenever possible, and started doing a cardio work out once a week. I skip the subway ride (thank you Philly for making that choice an easy one) and take the 20 minute walk, or avoid the escalator and take the stairs.

It definitely wasn't quick though. As a teenager I was always struggling with my weight, and whenever I tried to make a change it was quick and effective but always temporary. This time it wasn't my goal to lose a certain amount of weight. It was to start a healthier lifestyle that I would stick to for the rest of my life. It was about gaining confidence in my body again and learning self respect. I'm still a sucker for the Wendy's value menu or a slice of greasy pizza every now and then. But it's something I've trained myself to acknowledge and recognize. To feel maybe just a little bit guilty about. But this change wasn't about denying and punishing myself so that I ended up binging. This wasn't about counting calories or developing an unhealthy mindset that was never going to last. It was about embracing the fact that I have control over my body and what I put into it. Most importantly: I was doing this for myself. I had suffered through my share of teasing and insults, but I was finally looking in the mirror and addressing my body not from all the hurtful things I'd had hurled at it by insensitive men, but from an inner desire to love it.

Of course, fashion has become a lot more enjoyable now that I've been losing weight. I still reach for a large and vary between a 10, 12, and sometimes 14 when picking clothing out, but it's never been about the size of what I'm putting on. It's about me feeling good in it, and about it being flattering. I had a friend tell me one time that I was really good at dressing for my figure. I know where fabric will cling to me and I know the kind of cuts and fits that will do absolutely nothing for me. I get a lot of compliments on my outfits and people are almost always shocked when I tell them where it's from: Forever 21, H&M, Target, etc etc. I'm used to having to really dig to find something that fits me right, and so where some girls might shy away from the overwhelming amount of choices at these stores, I know how to find the patterns and colors I like on pieces that are going to work on me.

So, cheap and curvy seemed like the right way to rebrand this blog. I'm still trying to shed some pounds, but I'm always going to have an ass and thighs. As my mom once said: I have child bearing hips. For somebody who doesn't necessarily want kids (and for someone who was probably only twelve when she was told this) that was a pretty frightening prospect. But I'm learning to love the curves while still treating my wallet nicely. If I was one of those girls that could throw on any piece of clothing and look amazing in it, I'd be broke. So in some ways I consider myself lucky ;)

Oh, and I have an Instagram now, so if anybody out there is still reading, follow me @casseybaker!

Spotlight: Concrete Polish Jewels

For the past several months I've had the pleasure of interning at jewelry shop and showroom Concrete Polish in Northern Liberties. If you live in the Philadelphia area and still haven't visited the shop, I'll forgive you--for now. But if you read this post and STILL don't check it out? We're gonna have some issues. It's a hidden gem with edgy but feminine statement rings, necklaces, bangles, and earrings that any jewelry junkie needs to own at least one piece of. Although, if you buy one, you're likely to start building your collection up as the owner and designer Angela Monaco continues to add more and more to her impressive inventory.

(The Celestial Eyes Ring in Rose Gold with Oynx, from the Carbon Future collection)

Her designs feel modern and futuristic but rooted in something totally classic and timeless too. There is real weight and substance to her work, and a refreshing originality that's hard to find in jewelry these days. Yes, Angela is technically my boss, and yes I've earned a special place in her iPhone with emoticons surrounding my name, but I wouldn't follow her to Las Vegas and several Philadelphia events selling her jewels if I didn't genuinely believe in her talent. Well, okay, who can say no to a Vegas trip? But regardless, she's an incredible artist and business lady!

(Tourmaline Necklace in Gold from the Crystal Crush collection)

(Leaf Wrap ring in Rose Gold from the Classics collection)

And this is jewelry you can feel good about buying! In case you need any more reason to buy pretty, shiny things, you can feel good knowing that each piece is designed and made locally in Philadelphia. Angela is inspired by crystals and their structures, and a lot of her pieces are also cast from them. And so there are some crazy good vibes and energy going on in her shop and jewels. Unlike a lot of other junk jewelry you can find for real cheap, everything in her collections are made with quality materials, so you're getting exactly what you pay for.

(The Stones and Bones ring in Rose Gold with Onyx, from the Classics collection)

For any Pretty Little Liars fans, three of her pieces will be featured in future episodes! So, if you want to own Hanna & Emily worthy fashion BEFORE the episodes air, get yourself to her website at http://concretepolishjewels.com/. Oh, and totally follow her Instagram @concretepolishjewels. It's a must for any jewelry, crystal, or adorable dog fan.

And because I can't write a post about Concrete Polish without bragging about my awesome custom Celestial Eyes ring...

(Custom Celestial Eyes Ring in Rose Gold with Peruvian Opal)

So, what are your favorite pieces from her collection? Comment and let me know!

Lusting After: Tribal Cardigans

(Photo Source: http://www.ablackpanda.blogspot.com)

We're just about there! Pumpkin is taking over coffee and ice cream everywhere and bars are filling with the shouts of animated football fans. This can only mean one thing: Fall is back! Anyone else as excited as I am? I think one of the trendiest thing a girl can do is layer, layer, layer, and that's so hard to do in the summer unless you're living in an air-conditioned bubble. Of course as I'm writing this there are some fierce winds going on outside—tornado warnings, anybody?—but this girl's not missing the humidity right now. I've already broken out my jeans and long-sleeved shirts, so bring it on.

A new season means a very good excuse to shop. You can't very well be wearing those cute sandals and tank tops into the fall weather! I myself am in major need of a shopping spree, and so on a daily basis I think of new things I NEED (no really, I NEED them). But what have I found myself pining over the most these days? An oversized, tribal pattern cardigan!! I'm obsessed with anything tribal-inspired. I'm serious, you throw a colorful, geometric print on a trash bag and I'd find a way to explain its style-worthy qualities. It's the perfect print for summer music festivals, but don't shy away from it just because it's getting cooler out!

(Source: http://www.shewearsfashion.com/ & http://bit.ly/QlLlvc)

(Rachel_Emma & Camillae of http://www.chictopia.com)

Despite how comfortable these cardigans are, there is absolutely no reason you can't dress them up like Camillae above does with a great statement necklace and a form-fitting skirt. A vintage t-shirt and rugged boots are totally perfect for this piece too. No matter how you wear it, I feel like some chunky necklaces and rings are a necessity with this bold look.

Need some ideas for accessories to pair with this look? Try any of these accessories that I've also been lusting for. Pick up on one of the colors in the crazy pattern and really emphasize it--like with these boots--or maybe keep the focus on the cardigan by sticking to a color-blocked, nude clutch. Or just play up all the colors in this fantastic necklace I've seen described as a space ice cream cone.

Right, now all that's left to do is find the perfect one! You guys have any favorites? Let me know how you would wear a tribal cardigan!

Style Inspiration: Nora of True Blood

You might not expect a show as bloody as True Blood to be sexy and fashionable, but the show has collaborated with both Tarte and the Home Shopping Network, so clearly they know what's up in the world of style and beauty. I mean, have you seen the show? It is full of GORGEOUS people. And when isn't the female lead Sookie wearing an adorable sundress that we all want to throw ourselves in front of to protect when it inevitably gets splattered with blood? 

Redhead baby vampire Jessica has been my favorite character since the very first scene she appeared on the show, and I had the same exact feeling about newcomer Nora (played by the very beautiful Brit Lucy Griffiths) when she first stepped on the screen looking stunning and badass. In the most recent episode "Somebody That I Used To Know", she stole the show in a floor-sweeping black dress with gorgeous metal detailing. And did anybody else notice that messy braid worked flawlessly into her hair? I did!

I know it's the summer and we're all in love with brights, neons, and pastels, but black is always in, especially when it looks this casually glamorous. Nora donned it barefoot, but she very well could have thrown on some killer stilettos and worn it out. Everybody loves a classic LBD, but who says the 'L' can't stand for "Long"? With the revealing slit in the chest of the dress, and the silver studs, it is still totally feminine and elegant.

And we mustn't forget a gorgeous amulet to decorate our necks with! You don't have to be a crazy Sanguinista to wear a daring emblem like this. The whole look feels a little Gothic and Wiccan, but with soft rosy hues on your lips, eyes, and cheeks, it is totally NOT a Halloween costume. So if you're feeling inspired by Bon Temps' newest bad girl like I am, here are some awesome finds to help you get the look.

(Nightcap Plunging V Maxi Dress by Free People, $348, Get It)

(Stylestalker Deneuve Peephole Skater Dress by ASOS, $157.42, Get It)

A long, sweeping dress can still be as sexy as any short dress with the right details. The plunging neckline on the Free People dress and the sheer shoulder panels does the job just perfectly! Prefer something shorter though? (or maybe you're a short one like me and can't quite work a maxi-dress without looking like you're mellllting, you're melting!) Then ASOS's dress is great. It still leaves something to the imagination with the high neckline and long sleeves, but adds a touch of something more provocative with the peephole cut.

(Swallowed Pendant-Vermeil by Made Her Think, $170, Get It)

Now let's not forget about that neck-candy!! My favorite thing about Nora is how vulnerable and innocent she somehow seems while maintaining her daring prowess, and this winged bird pendant has a feeling of both a little good and bad.

Loving these ideas, but on a budget like myself? No worries, check out my cheaper options below.

(Whatchama-Column Black Maxi Dress by LuLu*s, $49, Get It)

(Gold Garnet & Citrine Eternal Love Necklace by Overstock, $42.99, Get It)

An unexpected reveal of the back and the combination of gold and red are perfect for attending your next meeting on how to destroy mainstreaming and worship Lilith...or, you know, go out to dinner! Whatever your plans, you'll feel feminine and just a little bad (in a totally good way).

How would you make this look your own? Comment and let me know!

Nailed It! in Mod About You

I know I'm a little behind on the whole nail-strips trend, but as a design major there was never any point in spending a lot of time on my nails, I was just going to chip them the next time I had to comp a project (better that than losing a finger with an x-acto blade, though). Now that I've graduated, I'm still not the most dainty person in the world--my brother claimed me and my sister walked around like an elephant stampede every morning we got ready for school--but on a daily basis I'm not doing anything with my hands that is going to threaten a manicure.

 

So, to be honest, when I first opened the package I couldn't help thinking: what the hell had I just gotten myself into? Then I turned the directions over from the Spanish to English side, and things started getting easier from there. I struggled a bit with choosing the strips that fit my nails best--I'm indecisive over the most minute details in my life--but with a little experimentation I managed. Although the directions suggested using the tiny vampire stake to smooth over the nails, I found it was most effective to use the pad of my finger to smooth everything down first, and then curve it over the edge of my nail with the stick.

I was a bit reluctant to drag the nail filer over anything I had paid close to 9 bucks for, but as long as you have securely adhered the nail strip to the ends of your nails, you're all set to saw away the excess. I ended up just snipping off most of the extra before filing down the rest.

 

Sally Hansen Salon Effects in "Mod About You"

 

Now, it probably took me a good two hours to do both my hands (by the time it reached 1:30 AM I considered leaving my other hand undone and claiming it was trendy not lazy) but after the first hand I started to get the hang of it and things went more smoothly. I was pretty pleased with the results though. The very edges of my nails are most sensitive to a little bit of chipping, but otherwise it's been a few days and the manicure's still holding up pretty well. And if you consider that there is no drying time or base/top coats involved in the whole process, the time pretty much evens out between a conventional manicure.

What do you think? What have your experiences been with similar products?

Coral Cobalt Crush

 

(Tank Top by Forever 21, Cami by Target, Capris by Target, Sandals by Target, and Purse by Aldo)

Last weekend I had a great visit home (ahem, my loving parents spoiled me.) However, I've always been a big believer in getting several pieces of new clothing at cheaper stores than getting ONE really expensive piece at a huge brand-name store. That's not me passing judgment on high-fashion brands, there are several pieces I'm pining over from the likes of Prabal Gurung, Emilio Pucci, and Missoni. But until I've risen from the ranks of semi-broke college graduate, I've got to keep my finances in check. How do I do that? Honestly, Target is one of my favorite places to find clothes. They've been partnering with amazing designers for quite a bit now, and so they know what's up in the world of fashion. Forever 21 is also great for some gems, and my newest obsession for jewelry and purses? Aldo!

Two of my favorite colors this summer have been coral and cobalt blue, and so I decided to mix and match the two in this outfit. I normally dress down when traveling, but for my five hour train ride back to my apartment I decided to go for something a little more fashionable--and it was totally comfortable at the same time! None of the clothing was over $20, and so it totally matched my wallet's capacity.

My FAVORITE purchase was the purse from Aldo. If any of you follow me on Twitter or Socialbliss, you know I've been wanting a structured orange purse. So what do I see when I walk over to the sale shelf in Aldo? That's right, it had my name all over it. The saleswoman was so so sweet too, and totally patient as I tried to limit myself to just two choices. The best part? The purse was originally $50, but was marked down to a sale price of $40...BUT WAIT, all purses on sale had an extra 50% off, so I got the purse for $20!! That's a total steal. And it's the perfect size to hold all my stuff on the days I go into my internship. Although I haven't been using it, it also comes with an attachable strap so that I can wear it over my shoulder. I find it's a little too big to rest against my hip comfortably, but it's nice to have. The backpack I was using before I bought this beauty is feeling ignored, but I think she understands.

Aldo also had some great deals on their jewelry (the silver ring in the above picture was part of a 2 for 1 deal). Another cheap way to add to your jewelry collection? Check out what your mom's packing! I found the adorable silver/red stone ring on her dresser and the second I tried it on claimed it as my own. She's not sure where she got it from--any ideas? I also cleaned out my jewelry boxes while home (there was too much old Claire's and Icing jewelry to be allowed) and found the beaded Marc Jacobs necklace I'm wearing in this look. Oh how wonderful cleaning can be sometimes.

Last thing, I've got to apologize for the less than attractive backdrops in some of these pictures. The apartment is at bachelor-pad status right now, but until I get a boyfriend or hire myself a photographer ;) you'll be getting these lovely Myspace-esque photos from me!

So tell me, what are your favorite colors to combine this summer?