Dress Up

{Pick of the Week}

Prints and Patterns are some of the qualities of a garment that I really appreciate. While I do love designs like this or even this, sometimes they can get too cutesy and come across juvenile on me. The pick for this week is one that I feel is the perfect representation of a print that I love. The playing cards are playful and fun to wear, but it is a dress that can easily be styled various ways either with polka dot tights (as seen in the picture), a leather vest, or a really fun metal collar necklace to wear underneath the collar of the actual dress. And, with the length short but the sleeves long, the print is not too overwhelming on a large garment, and has just the right amount of whimsical appeal. 

What is everyone up to this weekend? Yesterday was my birthday and my friends and family helped me celebrate in so many ways. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Home Improvement

{via}

As a college student, finding a solid place to sit and work can sometimes be difficult. Whether the library is too crowded, the common area is too loud, or your dorm room too cramped, there never seems to be the ideal space. While usually I prefer to work on large tables instead of confined desks, the photograph above is one that could definitely transfer my working habits over to the desk side. The white Parsons desk is a favorite among many for its sleek and modern design, and the combination of the glossy white desk and clear lucite chair always feels fresh and inviting. With the fabric board behind ready for pinnings of inspiration or latest projects, and with little touches like a chevron pencil holder, flowers, and a lilac ampersand, this is definitely an ideal space for the creative student.

Do you have a preferable space for doing work? 

Person of Interest: Miroslava Duma

{all images found on Pinterest}

While there are definitely extensive lists upon lists of inspirational dressers in the fashion industry, Miroslava Duma is one of the ones that repeatedly stands out in a unique, incredible, and constantly inspiring way. As the former editor for Harper's Bazaar (Russia) and now a freelance writer for various publications, Duma is one industry regular that repeatedly takes risks in color choices, pattern combinations, and her love of large and intricate jewelry pieces--especially necklaces. And, at only 25 years of age, she is definitely an accomplished woman in so many areas of the fashion community.

How have you all been enjoying the new lineup? Are there any People of Interest that you feel are really inspiring or would like to share? I would love to hear.

Tuesday Shoesday

{The Shoesday pick of the week}

Though summer is soon coming to an end, sandals are staples throughout the year in various parts of the states. When home in Texas, we can easily be having Thanksgiving outside and no doubt, sandals are definitely seen. While many prefer sandals that are solid neutrals like grey, white, tan, or black, there are infinitely more color options that can be just as neutral and add a little more flair to your feet, as well. This pair combines yellow (which can also act as a neutral) with a more typical neutral of tan, and can be worn just as similar in how you would wear more traditional neutrals. And, while on sale for under ten dollars, if this yellow-as-a-neutral is a trend that you just want to test out, this is a great way to start.

Do you wear any colors as if they were neutrals?

Announcement

Hey, everyone! Okay, so with the 2012-2013 school year kicking off today, In anticipation for the workload I'm about to endure I came up with a way to still actively take part in this blog by switching a few things up. As you see above, I have come up with a weekly lineup of posts for all of you to enjoy. Here is a bit more detail about what you will see involving each one:

Monday- A to Z: In this post, each week I will focus on a different letter of the alphabet to share with all of you. Whether it be an interesting or favorite Artist, an incredible Typeface, or Beauty trend worth noting, this is what Monday's will be for. To kick off the week, we will obviously kick off with the beginning of the alphabet. So, starting next Monday, look out for the first addition to this feature--A

Tuesday- Shoesday: Tuesday will be dedicated for all of you shoe lovers. Tuesday will be filled with either a few or highlighting one pair of truly swoon-worthy shoes. If you're a fan of brogues, ballerina flats, or boots, Tuesday will be your day. 

Wednesday- Person of Interest: "POI" will highlight a specific lad or lady who is specifically inspiring either in their way of dress, career, or anything really. Wednesday's posts are to show the inspirational people who style their clothing in ways that really are of interest to me in many different ways. 

Thursday- Home Improvement: If you've ever been interested in re-decorating, moving into a new space, or trying to figure out what style you want to go after for your new home, Thursdays will be all about that. Here, I will feature certain rooms or complete houses that are seemingly perfect in their layout or execution. 

Friday- Dress Up: Finally, Friday's Dress Up series will remain the same. To restate this post, Fridays are to showcase a specific dream worthy dress either in itself or a specific dress by a designer that is particularly inspirational that week.

So, I hope that you are fond of the new line-up here on 85 Dresses. Daily outfits posts will be back again. For now, they are taking their own vacation as we fall back into the school year.

Enjoy and look out for Tuesday's first Shoesday post!

Denim on Denim

{Forever 21 shirt, GAP jeans, Banana Republic shoes, Michael Kors watch, Bracelets from random venders, and Revlon's "Orange Flip" lipstick}

If there's anything that I have realized about versatility lately, it's that a denim shirt can be just as versatile as a classic plain t-shirt. I have always thought that by pairing a denim or chambray button down with jeans is a casual look that manages to look effortlessly put together in the most fabulous of ways. While usually suggested that one article of clothing is kept in a lighter wash to form more contrast, I decided to take the lighter route all the way but created contrast with the boxiness of the top, patches on the jeans, and a pop of bright lipstick.

{Current favorite nail style: Revlon's "Minted" tipped with gold}

Dress Up

{Pick of the Week}

This week's pick is one that is perfect for anyone who has a soft spot for whimsy. Upon first view of this dress, my first thought was that the appliqués reminded me of the little jewel toned foils that were used for projects and crafts when I was younger. I love the way that the colorful shapes stand out against the cream dress, and by adding a detachable collar, the look is able to be taken from charming to trendier and a little more bold with the ease of a button. 

P.S. I'm kind of digging this model's haircut. What do you think?