This morning amid my scattered brain I thought of how I would define my personal style, had someone besides myself ever asked. I posed myself with the question: If you had to define your wardrobe with ten pieces, what would they be? Well, What would they be? If these ten pieces were chosen over their competition they must mean enough to me - thus they might,  just might help me better define my sartorial choices.

1. Black Frilly Dress - I bought it two years ago to wear on my birthday, but its really been through so much more. It has small crochet flowers and gathered sheer layers of fabric that swing around at every step. I wear a fair share of sweaters over it, so it often moonlights as a skirt. (pictured is Red Valentino)

2. Leather Jacket - It transforms everything into a better version of itself. (Mango quilted and suede)

3. Alpaca Coat - Okay, I just finished making this one so I haven't technically worn it - outside of 24/7 within the confines of my house. I know this one is going to be a staple though, after all he was stitched with nothing but TLC. (Alexander Wang)

4. Jeans - ONLY of the Topshop variety. I tried their denim for the first time last August and theres no turning back, I think I have 5 pairs now.

5. Oversized Mens Pullover - the one I'm referencing within my own wardrobe I got from Thrift Town and slightly resembles a very loved teddy bear. It lends it's self to many roles, over the dress, under the jacket, over the plaid under the coat, with the jeans etc. (Rag & Bone)

6. White Tee Shirt - I went back and forth between a black or white tee. Settling on white just for the novelty of my particular favorite - from an Elizabeth and James sample sale, it's large and soft enough that it could've been my boyfriends, had I had a boyfriend who shopped at sample sales.

7. Plaid Silk Button up - Also from Thrift Town, it yearns to be really grungy but it's 100% silk so it can only go so far. (LAMB)

8. Penny Loafers - They're black and white and have baby sized gold tassels. For some reason whenever I'm in Dallas they garner a lot of male attention that leaves me wondering - did he like me or just my shoes? (Michael Kors)

9. Wang Ponyhair Oxfords - they're not really oxfords but that's what AWang.com refers to them as. They were an eBay feat and lend about two additional inches to my stature.

10. Golden Goose Sneakers - Yet another, if not my most prized eBay victory. Theres just something about handmade, pre-distressed sneakers that add a little sparkle to my stride - aside from the fact that they are indeed metallic.

After making this list, I realized these ten items are much like my style in which they are perpetually changing. These items I somehow lived without prior to obtaining, but now claim I cannot. Just like two years ago I lived for brightly colored blazers in every color of the rainbow and now can't even bear to look at them. SO what items of the future will take over the very spots above? Destiny's Child really captured how I feel about this through "thought I would die without you But I'm livin'"

 All white after Labor Day 

Peter Som's Choose Love bags reminded me of Juicy Coutures Choose Juicy bags circa 2005, colorful leopard print prevalent in both cases.

Anna Sighting.

 Actual Anna Sighting.

Probably my favorite photo I took all day. Young fashionista with doting mother, but who I was really trying to capture was this diva on the far right.

In my last post I may have made a remark about frilly lace collared dresses, well nothing was more - Cydney what are you doing- when realizing that, post-hand-stitching the lace around the collar on this dress. I think this just goes to show how much my style varies dependent on my mood. While working 40+ hours per week I'm knocking down frivolous frocks and bright hues, then suddenly a week later (after my last day working for the summer) I'm making a hot pink silk dress with lace detailing... Regardless, I made this dress after debating between two Free People dresses, one of which was too long, and the other almost too short, thus it was time to DIY. 

New York Skyline Ring - Etsy, Spike Screw Ring - Forever 21, Latin Script Ring - Marc Jacobs

Hallelujah ~ I finally found a decent faux Balenciaga Ring Set via Forever 21

Black Slip - H&M, Halogen felt hat - Nordstrom Rack, Sunglasses - Nordstrom 

Alexander Wang Donna Bag - Barneys,  Sandals - Rag & Bone

In addition, please vote for me in H&M's 50 States of Fashion Contest! 

I'll be real. The only reason I took these photos was to determine if I liked the length of the dress, which I am currently in the process of making. At first when I tried it on, I thought no, I might as well start over, this is so not what I was going for - I look like I just walked out of Little House on the Prairie. 

I've since concluded that theres nothing wrong if you spend your Thursday -or any day for that matter- pretending your the modern Laura Ingalls Wilder. Sheer plaid whether it was inspired by Dries Van Noten, or LHONP will be staying on my mind from now until fall and if we're lucky maybe even into next spring. In addition, I shouldn't fear the midi-length, rather embrace it as it doesn't dwarf me completely. 

It was really bright okay.

 I'm wearing a sheer plaid dress (which I designed), an Opening Ceremony hat, Rag & Bone sandals, and vintage jewelry and camera. 

I found that the Dillard's "Celebrate Dad!" Ad, was the perfect place to transcribe my thoughts on the many resort collections I looked through. Relevant no, but some how my scribbles praising the various designers juxtaposed with Dad golfing in the background provided a great mix. The collections, some with vast differences, and some with many similarities, were a clear indication of whats to come, stay and grow.

(Left 3.1 Philip Lim, Right Christian Dior)

A certain blue and orange (complimentary colors bold enough to make any middle school art teacher proud) color scheme was seen at 3.1 Philip Lim and Christian Dior. A moment of silence for Raf as he transforms modern femininity to a whole new level, yielding power through confidence. Secondly, a shout out to Philip Lim, boasting metallics with outer pockets, and proudly proclaiming "I am CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year" through his sleek new backpacks.

(Left Lela Rose, Right Altuzarra)

This round I also found myself drawn to pants. (this is a rarity). We'll start with Lela Rose which offered many of the printed variety some were cropped, fitted, flattering etc. And then We'll check in on Altuzarra, where a certian brand of slouchy loose fitting pants were born, unlike any before their time. Aside from these game changing pants, Altuzarra offered up tasteful cutouts that not even the fastest of fashion -I'm looking at you Zara- could mimic. In addition gold lame skirts, jumpsuits and gowns, that would make even P'trique proud.

(Left Marc By Marc Jacobs, Right Rag & Bone)

Coats Coats More Coats. Marc Jacobs re-captured my love through Marc By Marc Jacobs. A multitude of houndstooth, oversized, grey wool coats all proved to be functional for layering during those brutal winter months. While the multi-zip coat at Rag & Bone -reminiscent of a Burberry coat I still regret not purchasing at super discount via Nordstrom Rack- well, I didn't think coats could get much better than this, but it did when I saw said Rag & Bone coat - in red.

(Left Jill Stuart, Right Moschino Cheap & Chic)

Lastly, can we chat briefly on the Flower Power happening at both Jill Stuart and Moschino Cheap & Chic? Textures bloomed through the crop at Jill Stuart (har har flower puns) in the most perfect shade of pink. While Moschino offered a different Cali-cool-flower-power (never never say cali cool) through faux tie-dye and leather skirts (similar to those of Alice & Olivia), and a daisy print playful enough to match the Marc Jacobs fragrance, Daisy.

All photos from Style.com

It seems like everyone and their sister is having a sale right now online, in-stores, or both... Essentially this blog should just be titled "Cool Things I Want" but whatever. I've crafted three semi-not-all-complete-outfits from various online sales, separated into three columns, in which I think everything is under $500. 

Outfit #1: (left) Theyskens Theory watercolor satin dress, Dannijo Liana collar necklace (available in gold too) Alexander Wang Black cut-out Dasha ankle boots (at SSENSE). Seeing that my size is one of two left, I'm taking that as a sign these are meant to be. I would probably add either a black leather motorcycle vest or jacket.

Outfit #2: Low Classic faux leather cut out skirt at Opening Ceremony, really taking texting to a whole new level. I would wear with a white linen tank, or a white collared button up with this Dannijo Lincoln Collar necklace. How perfect for working on the fourth of July? For footwear I would add white converse, or a simple black flat sandal. 

Outfit #3: Dannijo Otto cuff, Diane Von Furstenberg yellow and zebra print mini wedge, Kenzo front flap skirt, and these Rag & Bone tortoiseshell Monroe sunglasses, (which act as a summer essential - don't let your pupils be damaged) And although it is legal for ladies to roam the streets of NYC topless, that is not the case here in Dallas, so this outfit IS indeed missing a top.  A white linen tank would suffice here too, or if we're feeling spendy, add the Isabel Marant Etoile Linen Freedom tank.

I'll admit: I'm loyal to brands just because they are certain brands. I have been guilty for saying "oh thats my favorite..." simply because of my brand loyalty. -cough Wang cough Prabal- 

It's tough and shocking to admit that neither Wang or Prabal made my first round of NYFW favs.

Don't get me wrong, there were certain looks I absolutely loved from each, and I will prabal-y always be a Wang girl at heart, but theres some fresh fash stealing my heart right now.

Rag & Bone

By far my absolute favorite collection thus far.

Tibi 

(not just because of the personal experience. and yes, the first and third look are there twice, because I liked it that much)

 Catherine Malandrino

 Tanya Taylor

Jonathon Simkhai

In recent events it seems my life has taken to the pattern where I basically get really excited for things that end up never taking place. The saying goes that two wrongs make a right, so exactly how many wrongs do I have to make until I get anything right? Clearly theres a flaw in this pattern.

Especially when the majority of wrongs result in major fashion FOMO (fear of missing out). Studies have shown this is the most severe case of FOMO, besides possibly exotic vacation FOMO, which is high ranking as well. Throwback usher tends to calm an average case of FOMO.

 I'm twisted because one side of me is telling me that I need to move on.

So in conclusion to an overwhelming case of Fashion FOMO and multiple wrongs NOT making any rights.... A collection of pieces that I would wear to NYFW if I had actual events I was attending, or could actually afford any of the featured items.  

Enjoy, and strike your best, I'm not relevant but should be NYFW pose.

like so.

(From top left) Marni Medium Leather Bag, 3.1 Phillip Lim Cropped Sequin Lip Pullover, Illesteva Frieda Round-Frame Matte-Steel Sunglasses, Kenzo Mini Skirt, Rag & Bone Distressed Denim Vest, Marni Duck Printed Silk Shirt, 3.1 Phillip Lim Embroidered T-Shirt, Dannijo x Alex & Lee Necklace, Alexander Wang Jacket.

In all prints, colors and textures please. I'm actually in the process of making my second bomber (I've had way too much free time this break) You'll see both of them hopefully soon. But until then, let bombers galore fill your hearts. I also ordered this gem for a steal at Forever 21. I practically payed more in shipping/tax than the jacket itself. (All clearance you take an additional 50% off!)

T by Alexander Wang Neoprene and Jersey Bomber, Rag & Bone Floral and Leather, Topshop Mesh Sleeve Jacquard, Topshop Paisley Contrasting Sleeves, She Inside Floral Dip-Dye Bomber, French Connection Leaping Leopard Bomber Jacket

Complimentary Shipping! Up to 60% off! One day only! Come Cydney! Come look at us,

 Come shop from the comfort of your bed! 

I just can't help it. They long for me to look through them, to add to cart, to click, click click and to then to commit myself by "Begin Checkout" I've actually been really impressed with the selection at the online sales, especially Shopbop, maybe because I'm hitting them early aka right when I hear the ding in my inbox, or maybe less people are shopping, whatever it may be, luck is on my side. 

(from top left) Dannijo Breast Cancer Awareness Vika Braclet, Topshop Leopard Print Collar, Pour La Victoire Aeesha Patent Pumps, Boy. by Band of Outsiders Punctuation Print Top(sadly not on sale, weeping), Elizabeth and James Solar Haircalf Booties, Topshop Angora Boyfriend Coat, DVF Sapna Haircalf Booties, Rag & Bone Adari Mohair Pullover, and Alexander Wang Booties, sadly no longer avaliable via the Outnet, similar but not really are these babies.

I highly believe in the mantra "Look good, Feel good, Do good" So in anticpation for finals, a quick little collage of a few things I need want in preparation of finals. In reality though, I will probably purchase as a reward if I do well, not as a crutch to brace studying/sanity on.

Included are things such as necessities like the Marc by Marc Jacobs flash drive, I have to store my papers and notes somewhere right? A slouchy casual cool Topshop sweater, in the perfect shade of emerald, paired with Rag & Bone Jeggings. I'm still obsessing over these denim Isabel Marant Sneaker Wedges and Floral Doc Martens, so those are included seeing as they are both comfortable and add to an otherwise basic outfit. 

The accessories also play a crucial role in my fantasy finals outfit. The sunglasses, just in case the sun ever comes out. The Marc By Marc Jacobs Messenger Bag, seeing as its the perfect size for essentials needed for testing days, and it would be perfect as a carry on for the flight home too. The Finn Love Knot Ring as something to jitter around my finger while testing. The Barneys Red Fur, because the wind chill is frigid and a simple knit scarf may not do during the drastic days of finals. 

And the last but not least, the teal coffee cup that smiles back, mainly because I foresee copious cups of coffee this week.