Nina Nguyen

NOT Fall-ing for these hot temps.

- Mel

I’m really over this 80-degree weather in October BS. Can I have my tights and boots and layered wardrobe, please?

On top of the heat, on our way to Date Night, we got a cab with no working A/C. *groan*

My mind instantly went “Oooh, 80s temperature = 80s dress!”

Enter: this short, sassy number. I love how this dress fits, even if one of the shorter items in my closet. The bottom actually contains a secondary tiered slip, which looked all kinds of weird. I considered ripping it off because I like the fit of the rest of the dress… but it will take some considerable tailoring efforts, considering how it is sewn rightfully in its place. So, I rolled the excess “skirt” from the back-to-the-front (which is brilliantly split in the back at the zipper) and tied it off to the side — and what do you know? It worked.

Note: I also ripped out the “modesty panel” that a previous owner had sewn into the V-neck. Modesty. Pssssht. I layered with a light-colored lace slip instead.

I originally styled this dress with those cute purple socks, as previously blogged, but changed on my way out the door. First, I thought my legs were far too white for this late-summer madness. Second, I felt… stumpy. Plus, derby bruises on my shins. So, I opted for a knee-high pair of black trouser socks. Naturally, I forgot to snap a picture.

Dress: Vintage (purchased online; can’t remember where)
Slip: Gadzooks
Shoes: Rocket Dog (via TJ Maxx; years ago)
Socks: Guess?
Necklace: Lionette, courtesy of Spoil Me Fashion
Bracelets: hodge podge o’ stuff from my jewelry drawer
Ring: Nina Nguyen, courtesy of Spoil Me Fashion 

How in the world do you wear over-the-knee boots without looking like a hooker? I have no idea.

- Mel

I may or may not have purchased this very pair just to find out. 

The trick is being demure in ALL OTHER places — not showing off legs, tits AND ass (I’m looking at you Station Square hootchie). Although the length of this dress looks like I’m wearing leather pants in some photos. THAT’S A WHOLE OTHER BLOG POST.

Seriously.

I even attempted to fold down the tops (yes, I know… YOUR TAG IS SHOWING) to see if that made a difference. Maybe a balance of over-the-knee and lower (or no) heel would have fared better for me. To be truthful, I’m not sure that I can leave the house with a straight face wearing these. I might have to get drunk first.

But you know what? That’s what makes fashion awesome — playing around in your closet to see what works. And make a ridiculous statement (on your blog, of all places) with what doesn’t.

Dress: NY & Company
Vest: Express (gift a few years ago)
Hooker Boots: ShoeDazzle
Necklace: Revival (the cutest boutique in Akron! Highland Square is where it’s at, Ohio peeps!) 
Ring and Earrings: both Nina Nguyen (on loan from Spoil Me Fashion) 

Also: I’m still not completely sold on this NY&CO dress. As much as I want to love it. Something’s off with the shape. Something that I think not even a higher hem might fix. Or… maybe I just need to style with different colors. I’M NOT GIVING UP YET!

Thoughts?

Outfits (and people) that transition.

- Mel

I’m KING OF THE WORLD! Well, at least in my apartment. So sayeth the cats. 

We’re moving in a month, and while I’m sure to miss the view, I’ll be so happy to be in a house. OUR house. Kitties, boyfriend and all. 

I had to stay somewhat casual, since I was going to pick up a crap-ton of moving boxes from a friend’s business up in Cranberry. But afterward (downtown again), I’m meeting a friend who’s in town from Chicago for a few happy hour drinks. This outfit should transition nicely between the two. Heck, I might even throw on a pair of HEELS before I head out. 

Jeans: J Brand
Shoes: GoJane
Layering Tank: Old Navy (I definitely need more of these! I have laundry room gnomes that take my tanks, I swear!)
Sweater Vest: NY&CO
Burner Tee: LOFT
Necklace & Ring: Forever 21
Bracelet: on loan from Spoil Me Fashion (Sensations collection by Nina Nguyen — and it’s on sale for half off right now!)