Building a Wardrobe

Good morning!

As I mentioned last week, my sister Alaina, (who also pens her own blog) and I are jet-setting to Washington D.C. this summer to intern on "the Hill." And even though we're weeks away, there's still so much to do! Research the historical places peppered around D.C., read up on the hot-button issues circulating around Congress, creep on the major players on the hill, and lastly, put together a fabulous work/play wardrobe for my D.C. adventures!

I'll be the first to admit it - I love shopping. Probably a little too much. I know all the hot online clothing stores: Asos, Shopstyle, Tilly's, Modcloth... the list goes on. And so, I have put my useless knowledge to good use and I've put together a pretty comprehensive packing list.

Packing for a month can be a pretty daunting task. How does one cram all one's clothes, accessories, shoes, purses and toiletries into ONE suitcase? (Let's not kid ourselves, baggage fees are absurd nowadays.) Well I believe I've found a solution. The key is to pack basic pieces in a similar color scheme so you can mix and match the pieces and create several different looks. I've applied this formula to both my professional and casual wardrobe for this summer. I chose a color palette of white, black, olive and khacki accented by red and leopard print. The colors are basic, but the fun accents make the palette pop without going over the top.

Here's a work look I put together with some basics I'm using for my summer wardrobe. My style is usually sleek and minimalistic, with some architectural edge to it. I love edgy pieces like this thick gold cuff and the sculptural hoop earrings. Paired with basics like a black sheath dress and black wedges, they elevate the look to from common to chic.

Black Dresses by T Tahari
Sandals by Michael Antonio

Using other basics and tying in some similar pieces, I put together this casual look for weekend wear. The vibe is similar, but decidedly relaxed. The olive shirtdress is polished, but not pretentious and the leopard pattern on the satchel lends an air of classic refinement to the look. Black gladiator sandals are comfortable for long treks across the city, and the cross-body strap on the satchel create hands-free ease for juggling subway maps and museum brochures.

Day Dresses by DKNY
Sandals by Mossimo

Being able to mix and match pieces affords me countless options for day-to-day wear, and gives me the freedom to be flexible. As I start adding to my wardrobe, I'll be posting some more D.C. looks, so keep checking back. Until next time!

-Mallory

I suck at blogging, BUT...

Obviously I suck at blogging.


But I am hell-bent on making this sucker work. In my defense though, I've been maintaining a fashion blog for The Daily Reveille's entertainment site, LMFAO (an acronym for Life, Music, Fashion, Arts, Online. Cleverness, no?). Not to mention I've been juggling 15 hours of school, interning for a congressman, my work study, my regular job, all my extracurriculars, and on top of all that, trying to maintain a sliver of a social life, (Oh, that's a laugh). But nay fair readers, I shall not leave you in despair this summer. Especially since I have SO MUCH going on! Which brings me to my first big point...

I am working HERE!

That's right. CAPITOL HILL baby. Epicenter of politics. Birth place of democracy. And I am going to be right in the middle of it!  I seriously CANNOT wait! I'm already starting to creep on all the big political players. (Trolling twitter like a big shot.) I just want to make the most of this incredible chance. I want to squeeze every single drop out of it. But most importantly, I want to remember doing it. Which brings me to my second big point....

This blog is officially my new travel blog!

Yup. I'm converting this online journal into a log for all my D.C. adventures! My friend and role model, Aly, did this with her trip to Istanbul and Turkey. I was floored to read about all of the amazing things she saw and did in this exotic place. It was like seeing the world through her eyes. And so, inspired by her diligent blogging, I want to do something similar. I really want to document the work I do, the places I go, the things I see and the people I meet through this online blog. I may be the only one reading it, but at least it will be a great way for me to reflect on my time in our nation's capital.

I'm so excited to revive this blog and set a new pace for myself! Be sure to keep up with me as I update here in the next few weeks with my travel plans, research, and most importantly, my wardrobe! (I'm totally joking about that being the most important... sort of.)

-Mallory

It's a Small World After All...

I know it's been a while. Hush up, I've been a little preoccupied with my trip to (cue the hallelujah chorus...) Disney!

In fact, the preparations for this trip have pretty much consumed my life. I mean, I've been planning outfits, checking out the websites, looking at books that are supposed to give you all the insider tips of Disney-aficionados... Just a little intense. But my excitement for this trip pales in comparison to that of my sisters. Alaina, (17) has already begun packing a backpack for the park, and she even suggested a day that we color coordinate with our favorite princess and sport crowns. Skeeter, (14) in her usual meticulous and organized fashion, has put together a color-coded chart that maps out the rides to visit each day and the order in which they should be visited... a chart. I'm telling you, when the Richard clan goes on vacay, we do it big. As for Mom and Dad? They have just chuckled at our over-zealous preparations. I think they're more excited about hitting the spa than about hitting the park.

To tell you the truth, this vacation could not have come at a better time. We've all been so stressed around our house, and we're all at the end of our ropes. A little R&R is just what the doctor ordered. Besides, Disney World is the happiest place on Earth... Is it even possible to get snippy when you're surrounded by Mickey and the gang with little girls prancing around in princess costumes and "It's a Small World" blasting from hidden rock speakers? I mean, in my humble opinion, Disney World is about as close to heaven as you get.

But as heavenly as the park may be, the blazing Florida climate is as hot as hell. Everyone's been there. The heat at amusement parks usually begs the age old question: style, or comfort. Should I bring this cute, leather cross-body bag, or should I go with the hands-free fanny pack? But have no fear, there's no need to sacrifice style for substance. I started packing, and I've been trying to find some clothes that will let me dress for comfort while still looking chic. Here are some ideas for some cute, but practical outfits you can sport to an amusement park, or any all-day outdoor adventure:

I'm loving the all-American vibe of this ensemble. (Does it get any more American than plaid?) A breezy plaid button-up keeps you looking cool and trendy. Tuck it in with some classic cuffed chinos and the look is pulled together and polished. I'm also loving the saddle oxford and cognac accessories!

This look is all about proportions. I love how this lovely lady pairs the long hem of her short-sleeved blazer with those short shorts. Keep things bright with this look with a colorful linen blazer. Remember, lighter colors keep you cool! Slap on some eclectic accessories and you're in business!

These may be the cutest shorts ever. I love the wide flare of the hem, and the pattern? It screams Disney! To anchor this look, follow suit and pair some vibrant shorts with neutrals. You can find these looks and so much more at www.elle.com/Fashion/Street-Chic

So what do you think dearest readers? Would you wear outfits like these? Do you have any outdoor staples for your wardrobe? Let's discuss!

Cheers,

Mallory

Gleeking Out...

Oh my goodness...

Glee. Tuesday night. Was. AMAZING!!!

So in the spirit of this revolutionary, visionary show, I've compiled a list of the top 7 reasons why I think Glee is the best thing on TV. (I know 7 is a weird number, but it's my blog and I do what I want):

1. Because I said so. If you're not watching Glee, you're living under a rock. Don't even try to argue.

2. As an avid musical theatre devotee, I for one, could not be more excited that showtunes are making a rise in the world of pop culture. And this show is responsible for it. I mean, Idina?! Kristin!? Lea?! All the great modern divas of the stage are present. Seriously, for broadway nerds and the entire gay community, this show is like visual cocaine.

3. SUE SYLVESTER. Where has she been all my life? For the past 19 years, there has been this snarky, politically incorrect hole in my heart of hearts that only one Sue Sylvester could fill. From her egotistical, snide remarks, to her blatantly offensive tirades, Sue just fills my little heart to the brim. Because if that's how Sue "C's" it, we "C" eye to eye.

4. The song choices. From Bonnie Tyler, to Billy Joel, I think the producers swiped my iPod and put it on shuffle to create the soundtrack.

5. Kurt. Oh, he is so fab. With his impeccably immaculate complexion and his hair swoop, he is the ultimate Diva (capital "D"). Not to mention his wardrobe. (i.e. His Alexander McQueen sweater? The Burberry scarves and silk ascots? PERFECTION!)

6. Lady Gaga episode. Need I say more?

7. THIS.

You can thank me later.

Got any more reasons for why Glee is awesome? Let's discuss!

-Cheers-

Mallory

Cannes Fashion

Good morning dolls!

It's that time of year again. The Annual Cannes Film Festival is well underway, and with the fabulous stream of award-winning films comes an equally fabulous stream of covetable red-carpet gowns.

Hitting the red carpet at the fashionable fete were some truly stunning gowns. Here are a few of my picks from the festival so far:

First up, we have the lovely Carey Mulligan in a custom-made column dress by Azarro which she complemented with her retro pin-curls. I must admit, I find the demure dress to be perfectly charming. I mean, an iced-out peter pan collar? Modesty never looked so good!

The Dame may be 64 years old, but she proved to us at Cannes that she's still got it! Helen Mirren flaunted her fabulous curves in a smashing draped asymmetrical Ellie Saab gown from the Fall 2010 collection. Readers, take note: THIS is how classy is done.

I may catch some flack for this third pick, but my undying devotion to both Cate Blanchett and the late, great, Alexander McQueen compel me to include this little number. Ms. Blanchett (always the fashion risk-taker) arrived at the 'Robin Hood' premiere in this dramatic McQueen frock. Call me crazy, but I'm kind of in love with it! What do ya'll think of this unique dress?

Why was Camilla Belle at the Cannes film festival? No clue, but who cares when she looks this good! Always topping the best-dressed lists, Ms. Belle did not disappoint in this Gucci minidress. This dress has some serious "wow-factor", but she perfectly balances the sparkle with some nuetral Sergio Rossi pumps and an over-sized clutch. Fabulous!

Making a second appearance on this list, Ms. Belle continues to dazzle us with her impeccable sense of style in this one-shouldered Gucci Premiere gown. I just love the way she paired her stunning midnight blue gown with the classic red lips.

Kate Beckinsale has easily snagged the title of the most glamorous woman at Cannes - and it's easy to see why. Here she is wearing Gucci Premiere (the label's new couture division) and she is pure perfection! From the old-hollywood waves, to the delicately draped sleeves, to the ethereal train... flawless!

You can absolutely NEVER go wrong in Marchesa. Exhibit A: Ms. Beckinsale in this magnificent confection from the label. Can you believe that voluminous skirt?! And the draping on the bodice... to die for. However, I have to say, Ms. Beckinsale loses some major brownie points for her sky-high pompadour. Now, don't get me wrong, I love big hair as much as the next girl (probably more so), but this 'do is borderline sky-scraper - its a bit much. But other than that, this look is a total winner.

So there you have it! What do ya'll think of my picks? Were there any looks that caught your fancy? Discuss!

-Cheers-

Mallory

I'm Baaaaack

Hello all!

Sorry I haven't posted in eons! I'm a tad ashamed to admit it, but I forgot my password for the blog, and haven't been able to weasle my way back in. (It's embarrassing, I know.) But, loving readers, I'm sure you'll find it in your benevolent natures to forgive me :)

In any event, I have much to catch you up on! School finished up, (cue the Hallelujah chorus) so now I'm enjoying all the fruits of summer (i.e. balmy afternoons spent in the Louisiana heat, mosquitos, sno cones, and of course, an 8 to 5 schedule at work). However, time at the office will also give me plenty of time to get my business done, and to prepare for the fall.

In more exciting news, my sister, Alaina, and I recently got cast in the local theatre's production of The Sound of Music (SOM)! It's been about 7 years since we've been involved with the theatre, so this is a great chance for us to get our feet back in the water, so to speak. We were only cast in the ensemble, (oh, the irony of being a nun...) but we're taking it in stride. After all, it has been a LONG time, and we need to earn our stripes all over again before they can trust us with bigger parts. We're just thrilled to be able to sing on stage again!

However, SOM is just the beginning for me and Alaina. She recently graduated from high school as the VALEDICTORIAN (can you believe it?!) and has decided to come and live with me at LSU next year! We'll be living in the Mass Comm dorms together next year, and oh what an adventure that should be. So naturally, being the hopelessly artistic beings that we are, Alaina and I have already begun to plot the interior design of our dorm room. We're thinking, urban-decay/living-in-your-parents'-basement/vintage/kitschy/tongue-in-cheek/playfully-irreverent. To be frank, the concept we both want is a little tricky to convey, but we have that whole sister-ESP thing and we both get it. And so, in a shameless attempt to procrastinate, here's a little montage of pictures that have the vibe we're going for:

Aren't these window displays from Anthropologie just adorable? I think I could actually make those bird mobiles with some cardstock, fishing line and a ceiling tile!

I just love these antique mirrors, especially when they're grouped together like this! There's actually a little antique shop in St. Francisville that I think I could snag a bunch of mirrors like this for fairly cheap. I also might try to get some mirrors from Walmart and I think I could get the same aged effect by holding a candle to the mirror and burning it maybe... We'll see.

Ok, ok, I know I'm a little paper-happy with these books, but don't you just adore these paper vases? And (again) you can make them! I'm also loving the silhouette too. Maybe I could paint a silhouette of me and Alaina to hang above each of our beds! Obviously I'm feeling a little artsy...

These are just a few pillows from Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. (I won't lie, the kitty cat one is my favorite!)

I like the quaintness of pressed flowers. It feels very Victorian, don't you think? I especially like the script that's scrawled behind the flowers. Think of some flowers pressed against a page of a book, or on a written letter like this one, then being framed and hung on the wall. Cute, no?(Again, a potential DIY)

For bedding, Alaina and I were thinking very minimalistic, maybe a simple duvet with an interesting texture... like this one, or maybe a pretty comforter, like this one. With simplistic bedding, it lets the decor speak for itself and allows us to create interest with quirky pieces like wall art, pillows, and frames.

Alright, alright, I know we're probably thinking a little too far into this, but give us a break! This will be our first space to live in together! We're just a little excited to have the chance to have a space to call our own. So what do ya'll think of our decor ideas? Do you know of any places that sell decor similar to what we're going for? Let me know your thoughts!

Until next time!

Mallory

Oscars Fashions

Bonjour,

So, as you and the rest of America knows, last night was the 82nd Annual Oscars! And why do we watch the Oscars? To see who wins, yes, but most importantly, to see who wears whom. The Oscars may very well be the most highly anticipated night in fashion, and last night was not a disappointment. Although, I'll admit that there were no OH MY GOD dresses on that red

carpet in my honest opinion. Pretty? Yes. Stunning? To a degree. But jaw-dropping, drool-worthy confections? Nope. Which leads me to my next point:

Here are my picks for the evening's best dressed:

Anna Kendrick in Ellie Saab:

This dress was so dream-like. I love the weightless quality of the chiffon and the romantic draping incorporated into the piece. Despite my concern for her monochromatic - hooker footwear, Ms. Kendrick was certainly lighter than air in this lovely Ellie Saab gown.

Carrie Mulligan in Prada:

Is it just me, or is Carrie Mulligan possibly the most adorable thing in Hollywood right now? (other than Ryan Reynolds of course :] ) I adore the little trinket-details on the bodice of her frock. (Are the little keys, forks and spoons not precious!) What a cheeky and fun way to do the Oscars!

Penelope Cruz in Donna Karan:

The Nine starlet was pure perfection in this Donna Karan ringer. The burgandy color is so rich, and complements her complexion perfectly. Not to mention that the origami neckline is simple, yet ever so elegant. Once again, Ms. Cruz proves to us that divinity is in the details.

Jennifer Lopez in Armani Prive:

Two words for J-Lo's look: High. Drama. This irridescent Armani Prive piece hits all the right notes. From the sculptural folds of neckline to the sumptuous cascade at the hip, this gown looks like bottled moonlight. If Jennifer Lopez wanted our attention, she most certainly got it.

Rachel McAdams in Ellie Saab:

I see this gown and I'm transported to some mythical fairy glen. Between the muted colors, and the flowing movement, this gown can't help but evoke feelings of romanticism. And I must admit that Ms. McAdams pulled off the look flawlessly. Eat your heart out Prince Charming.

So what did you think of the Oscar's looks? Do you agree with my picks? Were there any looks that stood out to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts on one of fashion's biggest nights!

Until next time loves.

Cheers,

Mallory