3.1 and Done

So...  who survived the launch?  Were you up in the wee hours of the night, clasping your Diet Coke or beer, waiting for Target's website to quit showing "Preview" and finally go live?  Or did you sleep in 'til 6:00 AM and rouse yourself to line up at your local store?  Or, um, both?  Like I did (granted, I didn't get up til 9:30 AM).  I had sworn I was only gonna do the online shopping.  But, my curiosity got the best of me, and I drove to the downtown flagship to see how nuts things were.  Honestly, while it was busy, it wasn't the insanity I'd heard about at other stores.  And I got a closer look at the items "in real life."

Here are a few shots of my shopping adventure "in person"...  (No one needs to see the online version, my tired face lit up like a virtual ghost at 2AM thanks to the laptop screen).

 

Yes, the leather jacket was in the store.  I only spied two of them.  So I tried this one on.  It's technically navy-colored, but I like that it can masquerade as black in certain lighting.  The material is also very thin - some people don't like that.  It didn't deter me.  The fit's a little boxy, though.  Excuse my otherwise schlubby outfit.

 

 

 

 

 

Here's the blue sparkle dress (blingy stuff limited to one side).  It's a fairly straight fit, and I'm debating whether it works for me.  I suspect the black rendition might fare better.  One plus - pockets!

 

 

 

 

Dudettes, I do not know what compelled me to go for the camo sweat pants.  In my normal world, I'd swear them off like overcooked cauliflower, but somehow, I love them.  Don't ask.  Iffy on the peplum top, but I'm trying to be friends with the style.  And I promise not to leave the house in this particular ensemble.

 

 

 

 

The bags!!!  Satchels, totes, and crossbody purses are predicted to be the favorites.  The little guy in the middle is considered a "unicorn" among the many fashion boards on Facebook.  Luckily, I found the last of two in my store.  Along with some more masculine (but very nice) travel kits - good Christmas presents!

 

 

That's my stash (so far...  waiting for the online goodies to arrive).  What looks good to you?  Did you grab some of the same stuff?  Or were you all about the "Boom" items?  They do have a nice Lichtenstein-y vibe, but they aren't really my style, so I'm happy to see them go to more appreciative fans.  Guys, what's your impression so far?  They offer a decent array of men's clothing, a pair of shoes, and a bag I've heard is big enough to fit your car.

 

You'll have to let me know your thoughts on this latest round.  In the meantime, I need to decide what stays and what doesn't make the cut.  And wait for the rest of my stuff.

 

 

 

 

Images:  my own

 

 

 



  

 

 

 



 

3.1 on 9.15

If it's September, it must be...  time for another Target collaboration?? 

Appropriately timed to fall on the heels of the two year Missoni madness anniversary, Tar-zshay is just one week away from unleashing its latest shopping frenzy - a partnership with designer darling Phillip Lim.  The anticipated collection offers clothing and accessories for both ladies and dudes (and I should note the men have a fairly wide selection this time).

Here's what I'm eyeing...

I love the material layering but am curious to see how this drapes and what the back looks like.

 

 

 

I have a soft spot for leather (or pleather/vegan/whatever-it's-called) jackets. 


 

Digging the color-blocking, but I'm not sold on the cut of the top.  The bag, however, is kinda cool.


 

Again, love the purse.  The pattern on this shirt is cute, but I look like a dork in button-downs.

 

 

 

 

Love the dress and the simple detailing at the collar.  Quietly elegant.

 

 

 

 

Once more - I'll take the bag and let the others scoop up the separates.

 

 









Great dress - would love to see it on a model?

 

 

 

 

Happy to see that cute pattern again on an equally cute sleep set.

 

 

 

 

More sparkle!  Also, trying to not automatically assume that peplum and I can't be pals.  I'll have to try this on to find out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I suspect this cute ensemble is getting a lot of online love, the inclusion of a lovely baby blue being a solid reason.  Sadly, since the coat has epaulets, I have to pass (for whatever reason, my small-boned body has linerbacker-wide shoulders).

 

 

 

 

One of the men's looks - I'd totally steal the bag and jacket.

 

 

 

 

With this new collab just days away from launching, are you on the latest crazy train?  I've seen friends posting their wish lists on Pinterest and celebs like Jessica Alba sporting the goods from a preview party.  What pieces are you coveting?  Have you already got your alarm clock set and a shopping game plan in place?  Or are ya hitting the snooze button and letting the NFL deal with any "strategery?"

 

Happy Sunday!

M

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Images:

Avec models - target.com

Sans models - refinery29.com

 

 

**If you're saying "Who-point-what Phillip-Huh?" then check out Refinery 29's dedicated article.  Sure, you can opt for the slideshow, but if you're mildly impatient like me, it also lets you see all thumbnail images at once (and click on them).  Here you go.

 

 











Right Here, Right Meow

Now that our local celebration of cat videos has gone national and even international (Derry, Northern Ireland...  really!), I have to ask...  Who attended the Walker Art Center's 2013 Internet Cat Video Festival?  Unfortunately, I did not brave the crowds at the Minnesota State Fair this year to witness Grumpy Cat, Li'l Bub, and all the other "cat"-enders.  Luckily, I did hang out with 10,000 of my closest pals on the Walker's hillside last year to check out Henri, Nyan Cat, and my fellow festival-goers (including a number of fairly unimpressed IRL cats and their more enthusiastic owners).  See my review here.

While I missed out on this year's hilarity, I did make up for it by scoring this sweet number the other day:

Perfect for Summer-into-Fall, roomy yet flattering, and adorned with felines...  this shift dress won't fill the void of missing the Roomba Shark Cat doing some big-screen collisions, but it makes a great addition to my wardrobe.  I'll be sure not to pair it with either of these, though:

Or probably these:

If you did make it to one of the many cat video fests, you'll have to tell me how you liked it.  What was your favorite kitty?  Video?  Any crazy outfits at your gathering? 

Not a big fan of Mr. Whiskers?  What's your favorite fashion animal?  Maybe you love Marc by Marc Jacobs' mouse shoes (like mine above).  The Jason Wu owl?  The See by Chloe critters?  Or just a great, unique design not attached to a brand?  I've got many local artists' renditions of characters from the animal kingdom.  Except the whole nautical thing - squid, jellyfish, etc.  That craze I do not get.  But hey, I'm content to be the crazy cat lady who, for the record, owns no cats.  Yet.





Images:  my own

The Nordstrom Sale: Part One

So, how did we fare now that the Nordstrom sale has gone fully public?  Did you get a couple things your heart couldn't ignore?  Go a little crazy?  Or pass altogether?  Here's what I picked up:

Yep, that skirt in the previous post...  it's mine.  Flares out a little more than the catalog image, but it's a great, not-so-basic basic.  Can't wait to wear it this Fall.  And of course, that Rebecca Minkoff pouch spoke to me!  One very pleasant surprise?  These oxblood Ivanka Trump heels.  Already noted as one of this autumn's leading hues, I adore pretty much anything red.  But I'd never bought from this brand before.  Not only did this style and color come in a Narrow (I have pencil feet and have sadly cast aside many cute but slippy pumps), but they're comfy!  No, I mean it.  Even though these don't rock a nice platform, the 3 3/4" height didn't make my feet cry.  I even test ran them throughout the day at work, including a trip to the cafeteria.  In fact, they went right to an al fresco happy hour.  Typically, I swap out my heels for Skechers when I leave work, but heck no!  Not today.  I was that impressed.  And here's another photo that does the shimmery, jewel-tone more justice:

Lovely new acquisition, yes?  And a lot cheaper than the higher-end designers, where you sometimes have to venture for stylish comfort.

I did order a couple other items and am awaiting their arrival on my doorstep.  But 'til then, you'll have to let me know if you participated in the sale.  I'd love to hear about what snuck into your shopping bag (or online cart) and why you couldn't resist!






Images:  my own

Like Christmas in July...

 

 

With summertime in full force, it’s hard to think about a crisp autumnal breeze and the fashion that goes with that time of the year.  I’m still digging through my wardrobe and tossing tank tops, sandals, and other “new” finds from the back of the closet onto my “wear to work this week” pile.  How in the heck can I entertain thoughts of tweed and equestrian boots, when all I want to do is give my sundresses a glimpse of that weird, bright orb in the sky?

 

Although the arrival of the September issues are still a ways off, good old Nordstrom mailed me their equally anticipated Anniversary Sale catalog last week.  Glossy pages packed with things that make me both smile and shudder.  The former caused by, well, my love of clothes.  The latter due to the fact that summer took its sweet-a** time getting to this part of the country.  And so, this annual reminder of colder temps isn’t welcome quite yet.  Unlike some of y’all, I have 7+ months to enjoy the finer comforts of cashmere, wool, and down.

 

Regardless of the weather, I cannot resist the power of this little booklet.  What’s funny is that, as I pored over all the photos of perfect little ensembles, it made me recall my days as a kid at Christmastime.  I’d get the JC Penney’s catalog and naturally bypass a vast majority of the thing to get to the toys.  As I flipped past the endless pages of “grown-up crap” (AKA, clothes), I’d think to my 10 year-old self, “Pfffttt!  Bo-ring!”  And proceed straight to the Barbies.  Now I can appreciate those decidedly “old people” sections.  But, I digress…

 

Here are a few catalog ensembles that caught my eye:

 

 Love the moto jacket especially.

 

 



 Again, I went right for the leathery skirt.  Perfect color for Fall, too.

 

 

 

Loving the overall look here.  Classic and preppy.  Ain't nothin' wrong with that.

 

 

I adore Nordstrom.  It’s the only reason I venture to the Mall of Insanity anymore.  And I know there are many other fellow Nordie’s girls (and guys!) out there.  Have you earmarked a few pages as well?  What looks good?  Of course, it’s hard to not drool over all the shoes!  But their selection of clothes is solid, and I even circled a couple of the “workout” items, since I’m on an exercise kick now (har-har).  Also, if you're all in for this sale, are you planning to shop in-person or online?  Or both?  Got a favorite designer in mind?  For those with Early Access privileges, have you already done sufficient damage?  Please share.  It would be nice to know I'm not the only person who considers this the "other" most wonderful time of the year ;)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Images:  #1 is my own, the remainder are from Nordstrom’s website

Seventeen Again

Summer is here.  Which means retailers are already starting to tease us with Fall Fashion Previews (yes, I had to capitalize all those important words).  J. Crew sent out such an email with this image:

Hard to think about accumulating more sweaters and woolly items when a good part of the country is scorching in triple-digit heat.  But, you know, fashion could care less about temperatures.  Anyway, all the colors and patterns made me think of old Benetton ads, back from, um, the late 1980's.  This compelled me to dig out my old stash of Seventeen magazine clippings.  And while I couldn't find what my brain recalled from Benetton, I did find this gem that pretty much tells the same story:

Holy high school!  Everything old is new again, right?  I remember how much I loved these ensembles.  And I'm pretty positive I'm quickly becoming "that" old person who whines that today's music/fashion/kids/insert-whine-of-choice-here just isn't like it "used to be."  Seriously, my current stash of Lucky magazines (and I do love them) just doesn't instill in me the same excitement as this publication did while I was sporting braces and purple mascara.

And while we're yapping about younger versions of ourselves, certain people will especially get a kick out of this artifact:

I found plenty of other pictures of Hollywood stars that made me just smile and exclaim, "Wow!  Look at her!"  Then I'd groan, "Dang, that was a long time ago" and promptly reach for the tequila.

With the stash from the past uncovered, I'll plan to pepper my blog with some highlights throughout the summer.  With the release of the always highly-anticipated September Issue from Vogue, it seems fitting to remember the ridiculous giddiness I felt when Seventeen's Back to School issue landed in the mailbox.  Who was your favorite celebrity to grace the pages of your teenage mags?  And what clothing brand or store brings you right back to the start of high school?  





Images:  (1) J. Crew, (2 & 3) Seventeen Magazine

The Return of Summer (and Me)

Hey everyone...

I know, it's been aeons.  Or at least it feels like it.  Been a lot going on.  Like, a lot a lot.  Most recently, the Twin Cities got walloped by a bunch of storms, in which nearly 500,000 people lost power, including me (more on that in a minute).  So I've been neglectful of this page, and whenever I'm on the computer and open my bookmarks, I see my little "Mir" giving me the stink-eye.  Sometimes it's a mournful gaze.  I'm pretty sure it's also given me the middle finger a few times.  I don't blame my blog.

Miraculously, summer has finally returned to Minneapolis.  And I figured if green grass and temperatures above 50 degrees can make a showing, so can I.  Here's a brief and random summary of some recent activity...


I pulled this amazing trio out of storage.  Much like my Aerosoles, these shoes are well-worn, probably 4 years old now, and well-adored:

As for new acquisitions, it's been a little quieter.  But the purchases have been deliberate, if relatively new territory from my typical habits.


First up, activewear.  My decade-old wardrobe of dude shorts and freebie oversized t-shirts needed a serious update.  Athleta (and others) to the rescue:

This trend was spurred by my first-ever outing to the local indoor rock-climbing place.  Not only did I survive, but I liked it and told my friend I'd be back for another round.  

I also caved and got something more substantial:

Yep, isn't she pretty?  My last bike was a Trek that I bought back home in 1995.  It logged a few miles along Lake Michigan in Chicago, got me around town during my summer in Boston/Cambridge, and then proceeded to collect dust in the garage.  I know.  It deserved better.  Sigh.  Alas, its frame is bent and I'm trying to figure out what to do with it.  I refuse to  trash it.  But the bike shop says they can't really do anything with it either.

Also, I was in Toronto for a few days and honed in on the goodies I can't get back here in the States.  Impressively, only one clothing item.  Not surprisingly, I'm still a sucker for cute animal packaging:

And speaking of cute animals, I also scored this back here in Mpls:

So, that's a smidgen of what I've been up to lately.  Honestly, I'm just happy that summer has made an appearance, even if it heralded its arrival with some insane storms.  Here are a few shots of the havoc it wreaked in the 'hood (and beyond):

It was sad to see these old trees fall, and of course I also feel bad for everyone impacted by the storms.  Makes you really appreciate the everyday conveniences - amazing how we can take for granted the simple act of flipping a switch or glancing at the alarm clock.  Or constantly checking your iPhone for texts.  I spent a couple hours yesterday at the local grocery store, hanging out with a number of other neighbors who were using any available outlets to juice their phones/laptops/Gameboys.  It's a relief to have the current flowing again, and I'll once again give a shout out to the hardworking folks at Excel Energy (who are still toiling away to restore power to everyone).

It's nice to be back, and of course, I'm curious to know if you've indulged in any summer buys in my extended absence.  Strappy sandals?  A lovely dress?  Or, maybe you also invested in a new bike?  Patio furniture?  BBQ lessons?

Happy June!
M