elementary school demons in purple, pink and turquoise

purple blazer :: maurice's (similar, similar) | turquoise draped blouse :: maurice's (similar) | purple cami :: forever 21 | pink pleated skirt :: forever 21 (similar) | sunglasses :: charlotte russe | nude faux suede pumps :: maurice's (similar) | buckled pink & ivory purse :: forever 21 | gold cuff bracelet :: charlotte russe (similar) | turquoise gem necklace :: forever 21 | large turquoise bangle :: icon collection (similar) | bejeweled wide black belt :: maurice's

My hair melted in the heat today; we're suffering from record high temperatures here in Utah this spring, but you didn't come here to talk about the weather. You came to rubberneck at this pink-purple-turquoise thing I've got going on. I have to admit, the photos did not turn out as well as I might have hoped, but the ensemble itself - well, it is a thing of beauty.

Pink and purple have always been my favorite colors together; there is just something about each that complements the other oh-so-beautifully. I've nursed this romance in secret for most of my life, however, due to an elementary school bully (who shall remain nameless) who once made fun of me for wearing a pink shirt with purple socks. I thought I looked smokin', but apparently the lame-stream bullies and "cool kids" thought differently. Their insults wounded my poor 4th grade ego so much that I have not worn this combination that I love so very much since.

Until today, obviously. I was up at 2am this morning, fretting over today's wardrobe, when my hands landed upon this lovely turquoise draped blouse. My sleep deprived brain decided it would look amazing with my pink pleated skirt... which happened to be hanging next to my purple blazer. And so it was born: this uber cupcake chic look.

The large turquoise bangle that appears in the photos only sporadically was an impulse purchase from a nearby dollar store, about three minutes before I started snapping photos. A giant, oversize, sequin and sparkles bangle that matches my blouse perfectly for $1? I'll take them all. Not really, but that might have been funny.

Speaking of arm parties, seriously obsessing over The Man Repeller's Arm Party collab with Bauble Bar. I find myself desperately in need of one - anyone care to donate to the cause?

5

now entering :: broke city

now entering: 

Broke City

mayor: 

Orly Shani

population: 

Lots of Broke Ass Peeps

[pieces]

broke city tank :: tuc + wes by Orly Shani

70s flares :: almost famous (similar) | cropped military blazer :: forever 21 (similar) | sunglasses :: charlotte russe | black studded wedges :: kardashian kollection (similar) | red clutch :: unlisted (similar) | fedora :: maurice's | pewter cuff bracelet :: forever 21 | twisted rhinestone encrusted ring :: forever 21 | watch necklace :: maurice's

[inspiration]
Sometimes when things don't work out the way we want them to, they turn out beautifully.

Another training session today, which meant my sixth day of work in a row, directly after working another six day/sixty hour week. I wouldn't complain if I weren't on salary. Regardless, this also meant that I woke up late (again) and couldn't find any of the pieces that I had originally envisioned to pair with my new Broke City tank from tuc + wes, so I grabbed whatever my hand could find in the dark and yanked them on as I ran out the door. I must admit to being rather pleased with the results.

[a note to the designer]

Dear Orly,
Thank you for making a tank that simultaneously makes my waist look really skinny and my boobs amazing. You're incredible.
Love,
Jen

[review]
My co-workers are probably tired of listening to me sing the praises of Orly Shani and tuc + wes, so I'm thinking a change of venue for this chorus is in order. I've managed to keep the growing obsession to a minimum here on the blog until now, but the arrival of my Broke City tank yesterday has opened up the flood gates. I've been a huge fan of Orly's since day one of Fashion Star (in fact, her gorgeous convertible skirt design is what hooked me in the first episode and the only reason I watched the ones that came after), so naturally when she released her line of Broke City tees and tanks I picked one up immediately.

I was a bit hesitant at first - just viewing it on the website, I was a bit wary of the cut. The sides of the hem come up just a bit, it looked a bit on the short side and the shoulders are a bit wider than I typically like, but I ordered it anyway. I'm all about sartorial risks these days, especially in the name of supporting such a talented young designer as Orly.

I placed my order on Wednesday, and had it in my hands Friday morning - potentially the fastest non-rush delivery I've ever had, and for only $5 shipping I have to say that's a huge plus. It came with a note from Orly in her handwriting (though it's clearly been re-printed - I probably would have died of happiness if it had actually been signed by her). It seems like a little thing, but to me it shows a level of commitment to her following and a pride in her work that we don't see much of these days.

Just being able to look at the tank IRL allayed some of my fears, and any lingering doubts were immediately erased upon pulling it on this morning. It looks freaking incredible. This is not merely some simple black tank top - it's a work of art. In short:

The length is perfect; the tank is a bit loose and over size (perfectly so), but the cut of the hem somehow pulls in the waist and slims the torso; the shoulders are just wide enough to cover bra straps and the scoop neck shows just the right amount of cleavage. I love this top so much that I now desperately want to buy every single other tank and tee from the Broke City line - too bad I'm too broke...

I hope you guys like this tank as much as I do, because I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of it here on the blog. I've already got about a dozen ideas for styling it, and I'm secretly disappointed that rules of proper appearance and hygiene prohibit me from wearing it every day.

P.S. Orly - I think I do love wearing it as much as you enjoyed designing it.
P.P.S. On behalf of the residents of Broke City, I'd like to thank you for being so damn awesome.

what are you waiting for?

buy your own Broke City tee at www.tucandwes.com

To view the rest of the photos from the Broke City shoot, check out the Broke City album on Frayed Threads' Facebook page.

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searching for [peace]

[pieces]

oversize black cardigan :: H&M (similar) | pink tank :: forever 21 | cobalt blue pencil skirt :: maurice's (similar) | 

black bow belt :: maurice's | chunky black sandals :: madden girl (similar) | black messenger bag :: ebay (similar, or try this hot pink version) | gold cuff bracelet :: charlotte russe (similar) | gold collar necklace :: forever 21 (similar) | black studded wrist wrap :: threadsence (actually a belt) | gold & pearl ring set :: forever 21

[inspiration]
Yesterday, my obsession with confliction led me to mix a gorgeous cobalt blue pencil skirt (very sleek and form fitting) with my giant oversize artist sweater (at least three or four times too big for me). This was originally meant to be an experiment in color blocking, but it didn't come out as crisp as I like my lines when color blocking - the pink top is just a bit too breezy. I do like this coraly-pink tank with the blue pencil skirt, but I'm dying to pair it with this green blouse I just ordered from Lulu's - should arrive next week. I'm thinking hot pink shoes and accessories are in order as well.

[style]
The secret to wearing opposing items or styles together is to own it. Pull it on and don't look back; you have to accept it, embrace it, love it, flaunt it, enjoy it, regardless of what others might think initially. Second-guessing yourself only leads to doubt and worry, neither of which is very attractive. We sometimes have a tendency to be self-deprecating towards our riskier sartorial choices once we've walked out the door, but this is only self-defeating (like a self-fulfilling prophecy). If you're questioning your choices, everyone else will, too; but if you present your look to be the hottest new thing (or whatever), others will likely follow along. There is a reason people say that confidence is your most important accessory - if you don't have it, fake it till you make it.

[story]
I had planned to take my outfit photos in my backyard yesterday when I arrived home from work, but was foiled by the sprinklers that were drenching my bathroom garden. I packed up my tripod, hopped in my truck, and started driving. I turned the ignition with the intention of heading to the park, but somehow ended up at the cemetery instead. I'm not really sure why I thought it was a good idea; the sky was gray and the air chilly, a storm clearly brewing, and I have found myself in desperate need of peace recently. I had thought maybe I would find it here, though I regret to inform you that the graveyard holds no peace for the living. I have, however, developed a new fascination with headstones.

[upcoming]
I received my Broke City tank from tuc + wes today; planning to wear it to work tomorrow for our Saturday morning training session. The only saving grace of having to work six days in a row? Getting to wear my new Broke city tank from tuc + wes that I received in the mail today. Maybe my boss will get the hint...

follow me on instagram :: @fashion_nerd13

[side note]
I've updated my Instagram and Pinterest usernames to match my Twitter handle - my handle on both Twitter and Instagram is now @fashion_nerd13; Pinterest is @fashionnerd13. Follow me on any (or all) of my various social platforms and like Frayed Threads on Facebook for daily outfit photos, tips, tricks, quotes, news, inspiration and various random details about my life. I'm really quite entertaining, I assure you.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Google+

[p.s.]
My sister and I will soon be opening an accessory and vintage shop on Etsy! We're currently working on our first pieces and hope to have the storefront opened up by Monday morning. We'll be having a giveaway to celebrate, so stay tuned for updates! In the meantime, any suggestions on a name would be greatly appreciated.....

0

the kerosene's run out

[the pieces]

gray oversize tank :: zara (similar here) | pink lace cami :: maurice's | black maxi skirt :: lammix (get it here) | sandals :: kork-ease (similar here) | messenger bag :: ebay (try this hot pink version) | gold cuff :: charlotte russe (similar here) | bangles :: vintage | sunbeam necklace :: nasty gal (find it here) | wooden turtle necklace :: gift | feather earrings :: maurice's | sunglasses :: charlotte russe | mint nail polish :: green w/envy by maybelline (get a similar color here)

[the inspiration]

This outfit was somewhat inspired by a post from Saucy Glossie, but unfortunately I can't find the original post. Regardless, you should hop on over and take a gander at her lovely blog.

The wooden turtle necklace was a gift from one of my drivers at work; he just returned from vacation in Hawaii and brought it back for me, since he wouldn't have gone if I hadn't talked him into it. Traditional style wisdom would probably have dictated the removal of one of the necklaces, but we all know I'm anything but traditional when it comes to my style.

[the story]
Feeling a bit disenchanted with the blogging world recently; it seems as though we're all so caught up in publishing, promoting and perfecting our own blogs that we hardly have time to socialize on others. I can't remember the last time I actually made it all the way through my blog roll - or even just through my favorites. I've been a part of the blogging community since its inception (I had a blog in the eleventh grade, long before it was cool - back when we had to code everything by hand and there were no fancy post editors), and while I'm thrilled at its growth, I feel that this growth has turned into a double edged sword.

Blogging used to be a way to reach out, to connect with like minds and make connections that let us know that we weren't alone. Now it seems that there are so many voices crying out desperately for attention that we're even more alone than we ever were before.

Blogging started as a medium to express unique points of view and to represent different walks of life; it was a way to make life real, by showing how it was lived by real people. With the rise of commercialism in blogs, however, it seems to me that most of the exclusively successful blogs are just profiles in the same stereotypes and fantasies of perfect bodies and perfect lives that don't fucking exist, and that blogging was created to escape.

This is not to say that every single successful blog is utterly useless (though there are a fair amount that I feel that way about) or that every successful blog meets the criteria of perfect body/perfect life/perfect spouse/perfect hair; I am saying that many of the popular blogs that fall within this make-believe perfection are boring, overrated, and sado-masochistic.

perfection is a beautiful fairy tale that will always leave you hating yourself.

I feel like many blogs, particularly of the style/fashion nature, have a tendency to gloss over the grittier aspects of life in favor of the light and fluffy bunny approach that makes their lives look so damned perfect. Sometimes I wonder if even the blogger is an active participant in this techno-denial. It seems that few ever write with any emotion other than intense enthusiasm, and that to me is sickeningly fake.

Maybe I'm just frustrated because I'm having such a difficult time finding my "blogging voice". Sometimes I feel as though I nail it... other times I just feel like a watered down, over enthusiastic version of myself. I've always had trouble finding direction, and I feel like this blog is a prime example of that. I'm tired of researching how to be a successful blogger; I'm tired of words like niche and voice and following. I'm sick of being wary of public exposure of my personal life. I'm done adhering to a formula, just because it worked for someone else.

this is meant to be art, not science, 

and I'll reinvent the damn wheel if I want to.

Though I think I'll just go to bed for now.

0

sweet 'n rock :: how to style leather shorts

tips for rocking high waisted faux leather shorts:

1. If you're nervous about showing that much leg, layer some patterned tights underneath.
2. Add a splash or two of color, but don't overload on neons, else you risk looking very 90s (unless that's what you're going for).
3. Add one sweet detail (a straw purse, floral something, pastel colors) to keep the look from being too hard, and don't wear any other leather (you're not a Hell's Angel).
4. Wear flats, or opt for a wedge over a stiletto. The latter risks looking a bit trashy.
5. For shorter legs, avoid an ankle strap or caged top. This can cut off your silhouette and make your legs look stumpy.

I finally worked up the courage to wear my black faux leather shorts from H&M out of the house yesterday. My sister said I lacked color and looked very 90s, so I added the bright plaid shirt and removed the hot pink lipstick. Also applied some mint green nail polish in an attempt to springify this look. Maybe I should have thrown on a scrunchie instead.

I used to be very anti-high waisted anything - until I tried on these black leather shorts. I love how they provide the perfect hourglass shape, and this plaid shirt + gray tank are just the right amount of over size to counteract it. Conflicting silhouettes are among my favorite things recently.

Truthfully I'm having a love affair with anything contradictory lately; aside from mismatched shapes, in this case that means a sweet, country girl straw purse and ladylike necklace and matching stud earrings with a rocker-chic outfit and dominatrix heels. Potentially a result of the pent up anger and frustration, leaking out in random drops like the oil from my truck. Or maybe it's the fuck you bitches attitude I've always had, fighting its way to the surface after years of suppression. Regardless, this tragic romance can only end one way: epicly.

The blog has been a bit all over the map of late; a bit like my mind I suppose. Restlessness is creeping into me again, infiltrating my pieces. This is usually when things start to go hideously awry - when I remain still too long after this feeling takes hold. The Universe, telling me to getupgorungetthehellout because I'm too damn smart for this small town life I lead, and it (She? He?) knows I will never be happy here. Never be complete.

I'm just really good at faking it.

contentment is the enemy of invention.

-Pete Davis

puzzle pieces

bright plaid shirt :: maurice's | gray over size tank :: zara (similar here) | black lace bralette :: maurice's | black faux leather shorts :: h&m (similar here) | leopard skinny belt :: maurice's (similar here) | dotted tights :: h&m | wedges :: charlotte russe | straw purse :: vintage (similar here) | sunglasses :: charlotte russe | mesh chain necklace :: express (similar here) | stud earrings :: express | twisted ring w/rhinestones :: forever 21 | mint green nail polish :: green with envy by maybelline color show (read the review here; buy a similar color here)

6

frayed armor

Wore this lovely tribal sundress and peachy pink blazer on Tuesday; originally paired the look with some flats but switched to the pumps about halfway through the day. The number of compliments I received seemed to increase dramatically with heel height. Upon review of the photographs, I must admit that I am pleased with the substitution. These pumps do kind of make my legs look incredible.

The notebook here photographed is my new fashion sketchpad; it contains randomly collected images and half-formed ideas from my brain, the pieces I've been searching for so desperately IRL but have been unable to find. One day, I'm going to make them. One day sooner, rather than later.

This is what's left behind when a perfectly nice girl decides to say fuck being perfectly nice and takes a moment to let out her inner free spirit. Just a moment spent reveling in the freedom of the cool grass beneath her bare feet and the soft wind tousling her hair; then it's back to being perfectly nice, a prison fortress made up of blazers and pumps and ladylike jewelry with insert-trend-here-inspired pieces.

Sometimes I just get so damn sick of it.

fashion is the armor, to survive 

the reality of everyday life.

-Bill Cunningham

That's all I have for you tonight, folks. I typically try to give you more, to impart some wisdom or knowledge, but tonight... tonight there are no spare pieces to give. If I keep going, we'll likely end up with another post like this one, and I'd rather not go there again.

I'm just so tired of tearing myself to shreds for people who only give a damn when it's convenient for them. Call me selfish, but I will not resubmit myself to a process that has repeatedly only left me broken, regardless of the circumstances or the situation or the cost. If the cost is this and the gain is me, well then I'd say I've more than broke even.

puzzle pieces

tribal sundress :: maurice's

pink blazer :: forever 21 (similar here)

nude pumps :: maurice's (similar here)

sunbeam necklace :: nasty gal (find it here)

gold cuff :: charlotte russe (similar here)

straw purse :: vintage (similar here)

the fashion sketchpad

once more unto the breach, dear friends.

3

here comes alone again

I can't tell whether this week is flying by or dragging on for eons.

This week has been even crazier than normal at work, and it's going to be an extra day long (we have a training class on Saturday). On top of the extra hours I've already been working, I'm looking at a 60+ hour work week.

Bleck.

My gypsy soul is pulling me towards the northwestern coast. The ocean, the rain, the trees - the dreary beauty of it all is whispering my name. I've never been, but nevertheless... I still feel the pull, the overwhelming urge to run and never look back. What I need right now is space, and time, and distance.

Actually, what I need right now is a lie.

This color blocked maxi dress is the second of the three I mentioned the other day, and it is undoubtedly my favorite. Aside from being gorgeous, it's fun to wear - how many items of clothing can one really say that about? The halter neckline is incredibly flattering, the color blocking gives the perfect silhouette, the flowy empire waistline is quite forgiving, and I love the way it twirls.

I snagged this maxi dress at Covet Boutique in Tooele last week for less than $40 - quite possibly my favorite score of the year thus far. I wore it to work on Monday and my co-workers told me I looked like Cinco de Mayo; though my mother said I looked like a gypsy, which is more how I felt.

Check out my tips on how to style a long maxi dress like this one here.

My nephew kept pointing at all of the colors and jabbering at me in Ewok. He might not know their names yet, but he knows they're different and he knows that's important. He also likes to "do his make up" and get mani/pedis - but only by me, and he sits dead still while I clip and polish. This kid knows what's up.

The rope coming from under his butt is his baby leash, if you were wondering...

Seriously lacking in inspiration tonight; I'm having another one of those I'm so tired I fall asleep every time I blink nights.

I should probably get to bed.

puzzle pieces

color block maxi dress: LA banga via covet boutique (similar here)

black moto jacket: forever 21 (similar here)

black sandals: madden girl

flat sandals: forever 21 (similar here)

sunbeam necklace: nasty gal (find it here)

gold cuff: charlotte russe (similar here)

black wrist wrap: charlotte russe

friendship bracelets: maurice's, DIY

2