FBFF: Oh The Places You’ll Go

Congratulations on the one year anniversary of FBFF, Katy! We wouldn’t be here without you! In honor of the anniversary, this week our questions are about gratitude.
 

1.  When it comes to be personally – I owe a lot of who I am to: my parents for enriching my experiences as much as they possibly were able throughout my early life.  I definitely don’t think I’d be the same person if I didn’t travel as much as I did when I was younger and to so many different places!

 

 

 

 

2. When it comes to be professionally – I owe a lot of who I am to: so… I don’t actually have a career, I just switched career tracks from international politics to fashion and fine jewelry.  But I expect to owe a lot to the companies I intern and work for.  Now to find that job…

 

{I wear cool things at work.}

 

3. When it comes to the art of blogging, I’m grateful to these people for helping me through some rough spots: I’m really grateful to have started out on Chictopia because I met some great blogger friends I’m still in contact with even if I don’t use Chictopia as much any more.  Chictopia gave me a really good foundation in photo style and blogging. Also, my early readers (hello, tumblrs), but really I’m just grateful to you all, the whole community is so wonderful.

 

4. One blogging challenge I’m grateful happened because it made me stronger was… I’ve never done 30 for 30, but I intend to one day!  Seriously though, I’ve never had an international magazine steal my photos, been stalked by trolls, infringe on my blog name or any other really serious blogging challenge so I’m not quite sure what to say.  I feel like I’ve never had to face anything big yet… maybe in the future?  I hope it goes over gracefully…

 

5. To my readers, I’d like to say… thank you!  For reading, commenting, anything, everything.  And especially for making me feel like I’m not just burping up stuff to fly off and be lost into cyberspace somewhere. It’s nice to have so many friends I otherwise would never have known.

 

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?
Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

 

P.S.  Sorry I didn’t reply to comments last week, I just figured that out.  Also, checked out those Payless platforms from last week, really uncomfortable across the toes if you have wide feet.  If your feet are N or M though then go for it!

 

I hope you all enjoy the weekend (especially if you’re lucky enough to be at Coachella)!

FBFF: Anxiously Awaiting

Open-ended FBFF this week!  You’re supposed to give the top five spring trends you’re looking forward to seeing/sporting.  And let me tell you, I am looking forward to spring! 

1.  I would really really like some 70s-inspired footwear.  Yes, even clogs are in the running.  I’ve been eyeing swedish hasbeens since I first heard about them… last year?  But I think $200+ is too much to spend on a trend that might fizzle out after fall.

I might be ordering these Payless shoes instead although I know it’s probably a bad idea.  Problem feet + knee injury = I should probably be looking into comfort brands.  I’m not really ready to give up my fashion shoes though, it’s something I’m trying to work on. 

2.  I think it’s actually bigger in the F/W 2011 collections, but I just want some bright colors.  To pair with a few neutrals (beige, I’m looking at you) this spring and with more brights for fall!

I’m pretty much dying for this dress.  It’s not really something I’d typically go for, but I saw it in… Bloomingdales? and that was pretty much the end.  I’ll be looking for it to go on sale for the rest of time.
3.  Wide-brimmed floppy hats (thank you Marc Jacobs)!  I have a black straw one but am looking for one with a bit more punch.  My favorite S/S 2011 collection was Marc Jacobs.

4.  I’ve never been able to find a pair that looks good on me, but wide-leg jeans!  I’ll admire from afar: Lydia, Caitlin.

5.  It’s not a trend, but bare legs.  I just really want to go out without tights on soon!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

Happy weekend, everyone!  Maybe it will be warm enough to bring out the pink trench for real!

FBFF: Thought Provoking…

Full disclosure: I’m not really sure that I identify as a feminist.  A few years ago I definitely would have, but now I’m not so sure, the more I explore feminism the more I begin to think it isn’t friendly to someone like me.  I am good at cooking, cleaning, running a household, makeup, hair, dressing…  and I am far more likely to wear full skirts and dresses than anything else.  I don’t mind men holding doors or elevators, or insisting on picking up a check (out of politeness you can only demur three times).  So, I don’t know, and I don’t want to write 500 words on this, it isn’t really the right forum.  Onward.
1. Do you think there is an incapability between feminism and a love for fashion?
I have to be honest, I don’t really know how to answer this question.  I definitely think feminism and the fashion industry (note: not “a love for fashion”) are often at odds with each other.  And Lena Chen gives me hope for fashionable feminists, The Ch!cktionary is also among the first tumblrs I followed way back when I started blogging on that platform. 

2. There is more to each of us than a love for fashion, how do you incorporate every aspect of yourself into your blog?
I keep Delayed Missives really personal style-based, but I try to be as honest as I can about everything I post here.  And sometimes I let personal details slip through, I’m still working on that blog award from Shenneth, I swear, I just can’t find any photos of myself from high school (am still unsure if this is actually a bad thing).

3. With the fashion industry still being a male-dominated profession, how do you think it would differ if women played a larger role?
I don’t know how to answer this because I’m not an industry insider and I’ve never done an academic study on gender in the fashion industry.  It makes me hesitant to answer this question because I feel like I don’t have enough information to give an accurate answer.  Maybe LVMH would acquire less luxury labels? (ha.  P.S. There’s a really good article about Christian Louboutin in The New Yorker that eventually led me to think that mindset is the only thing that separates the high heel as a form of oppression and the high heel as just another shoe.)  Anyway, I actually don’t think women are doing too badly in the industry.  I do realize that there are more men designing than women (at least I think there are) but I don’t consider the gender of a designer when I select clothing– especially because I think gender is such a product of the society we live in.  I think we hold gender norms up and make them sort of the be-all and end-all when it comes to interacting with people, which isn’t necessarily a good thing to do.

4. How is your self-image and the way you carry yourself informed by your beliefs?
I tend to wear what I want to and in the end I really don’t care what other people think.  I wear skirts a lot — and dresses too — despite the number of “dressed-up” (you know what I’m talking about) comments I tend to get.  I do find it very insulting that someone would believe the only reason I would be wearing something other than sweatpants is if I were going to see a man.  As if I care at all what a man would think of what I am wearing.

5. Do you think clothing/makeup/hair helps communicate the truth about yourself or are those things superfluous add-ons?
For me, I think it’s superfluous because my outside appearance doesn’t always match up with my personality.  Clothing and whatever is more like a study in art and aesthetics to me… maybe I’m communicating a few truths about myself instead of all of them at once?  I can’t imagine what that would look like, definitely a fashion disaster!

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

The Beauty Side of FBFF

I really never do posts on beauty, but beauty products are near and dear to my heart.  Sephora is like my second home, although lately I find myself wearing less and less makeup.  Answering these FBFF questions made me realize how much eyeshadow I have and how little I wear it.  Maybe I’ll start snapping a photo of my eyeshadow every day to encourage me to use the products I already have instead of buying more (always a problem every time I step into a Sephora).

1.  What’s your favorite drug store makeup product and your favorite higher-end product?

Drug Store: Revlon Age Defying Concealer.  For the price it’s absolutely amazing, comparable to YSL Touche Eclat.  I usually buy it at Target or Ulta but right now it’s available on Ulta.com buy two get one free!
Higher-end: NARS eyeshadows.  I’ve been collecting seasonal colors since high school but my mainstay is the Earth Angel color duo.

2.  Is there one type of product that is your go-to, can’t live without?

Foundation, specifically DiorSkin foundations.  I’ve mentioned before that my skin tone is really uneven (like huge disparity between my cheeks and the rest of my face) and DiorSkin manages to even me out a bit but still look natural.  I’ve been thinking of switching to YSL though lately because I have a feeling their foundations would
match my skin tone better.  YSL foundations have more golden tones.

3. What’s the best hair product you’ve ever used?

Living Proof Straight Making No Frizz Styling Treatment for Thick to Coarse Hair.  Better than any other product for frizz/straightening I’ve ever had, and I’ve been through most of Sephora’s stock over the past 10 years.  As with any product, I don’t mind paying for it as long as it actually works.

4. Fess up, what’s the worst beauty look you’ve tried to rock and look back at now with a little shame or apprehension that you actually did that?

Blue glitter gel eyeshadow.  No, seriously.  It was the 90s, okay?  And I was eleven… don’t worry, I graduated to neutral shimmers at twelve.

5. When it comes to beauty products, we all use the same basic products. What do you use that helps show off your personal flare and personality?

….I have no idea.  I like red lipstick?  But a lot of people like red lipstick.  I’d really like to get those feather hair extensions, actually.  I love them but they’re $20/feather and they’re just clip-ins so I don’t think they’re worth it, maybe if the price comes down.
Also, my hair gets more curl when it’s longer so I often let it go curly then.  Right now it’s too short and doesn’t have much of a curl so I’m hoping to grow it longer this year, I miss the curls!
Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

FBFF Blog Awards

I wasn’t going to post, then I heard some people were skipping categories/posting late, so here they are!

1. Creative Juices – I’m nominating Academichic because this fabulous group of women use the academic theme in a really fun and creative way on their blog.  And also as far as use of color goes, they’ve inspired and helped me the most!

2. The Real Deal – I’m nominating The Clothes Horse because Rebecca does a really good job of working with sponsors and people who send her gifts while still staying true to her own style and her audience.  I also thought her responses on the IFB panel were really helpful and informative.

3. Spark Notes – I’m nominating Grit & Glamour because she posts some amazing guides that I think are helpful for an blogger, whether new or established.  My personal favorite posts of Vahni’s are the ones on copyright, fashion-based social networking sites, and how to improve your blog.

4. Newbie – Sorry guys, but I don’t think anyone I follow has been blogging less than a year anymore, I think everyone’s past that mark.  Bummer.  But let me know if I’m missing someone/screwed up and just can’t count.

5. Can You Hear Me Now – I’m nominating Stylish White Female for most connected because she always replies to comments and tweets (and in a much more timely manner than I do).  I also love her facebook page (one word: outtakes).

6. If I had a Hammer – I’m nominating Re-Mix-Her for best DIY blogger.  Caitlin doesn’t post DIY tutorials but she’s a fabulous knitter and makes a lot of winter accessories.  And seriously she hand knit a cardigan.  That’s amazing.

7. Tribe Leader – I’m nominating Modly Chic!  Katy brings us all together, without her we wouldn’t have FBFF or the FBFF blog awards!  I’ve found so many great blogs through FBFF and I really love reading reading bloggers’ responses every week, especially the for the more thought-provoking questions like last week’s on body image.

8. Practically Perfect – I’m nominating Life in Travel for most fashionable because Hanh seamlessly mixes new pieces with ones she’s had for a long time and she’s not afraid to just have fun with fashion and not care what anyone else thinks.  She has an amazing collection of shoes too!

9. Paint by Numbers – I’m nominating Keiko Lynn for best beauty blogger (thanks Caitlin) and I know she’s not solely a beauty blogger but I find her makeup tutorials really helpful.  I think they make it easier for everyone to try out a new look and I especially love the tutorials with bold eye color.

10. Renaissance Woman – I’m nominating Indiana of Adored Austin.  I do adore her!

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

FBFF: Tools of the Trade

Guess what?  This week I get to share the technical side of what I use to produce this blog!

1. What technology do you use in blogging? I keep it as simple as possible.  I don’t even use a lens filter or hood.  I have a filter but I pretty much belong to the school that believes a lens filter is an extra piece of glass between camera and subject, and more glass leads to more distortion, which results in less sharp images.

  • camera:  Canon Rebel T1i, 35mm ƒ/2 lens.  I have a 50mm ƒ/1.8 but that’s not as practical for me (although it does take fantastic photos) and the kit standard zoom lens, too. But both my prime lenses are leaps and bounds above the zoom.
Yes, I’ve got freckles! Who knew?

  • tripod:  SLIK or Neewer, the Neewer is taller but less stable
  • remote:  Canon RC-6

2. What computer and online technology do you use?

  • CMS: WordPress hosted with BlueHost.com

  • photo storage:  my hard drive and my trusty old external which is a Seagate 500 MB.  I also have a Flickr pro that I upload a lot of my photos to.
  • photo editing:  Aperture 3 on a late 2009 MacBook Pro.  However I use GIMP for all my blog graphics like the header and background.  GIMP can be kind of unwieldy but for a free app it’s extremely powerful and a damn good alternative to Photoshop CS5.  I tortured myself earlier this week by checking the price at Staples– yeah, still $699.

I’ve also used Poladroid to make some photos into Polaroids.  I’ve tried Picasa too and think it’s a good program, but just started with iPhoto and decided to run with Aperture.  I’ve used Lightroom 2 as well but I really just think Aperture runs more smoothly on a Mac.

3. What is your process for taking pictures? I have a very structured system, actually, which surprises a lot of people.  It goes something like this: (1) run around like crazy looking for lipstick/gloss/stain/cream blush in a pinch, (2) attach camera to tripod while indoors, (3) carry camera + tripod + remote outside, (4) asses available light and background obstructions, then choose location, (5) set down tripod, make necessary adjustments, (6) run in front of camera, point remote, and snap snap snap, (7) breathe, check photos on camera LCD.  Repeat 4-7 as necessary if background and/or photos are deemed insufficient.

4. When it comes to backdrops for your photos what do you consider? Available.  Light.  I also like many small sources of light for bokeh if possible.  And I like to blow out the background if I can and leave the subject really defined.  Light is the most important for me though, followed by a background that’s not too busy.  I tend to like trees and fences.  Do you scout locations or shoot the same spot daily? I tend to shoot in similar spots, I have about seven different ones that I usually rotate depending on the time of day and the weather.

I wish I had some tall city buildings or plains/forests/mountains/beaches but unfortunately I’d have go kind of far for them.  I’ve always wanted to shoot in a local cemetery that dates to the Revolution, however it’s surrounded by a high traffic area and also I really wouldn’t want to disturb anyone paying respects to family or friends buried there.

5. If you could splurge and get one new piece of equipment what would you be buying? A good zoom lens, 70-200mm or something like that.  They’re $2000+ unfortunately, so maybe someday?  I could probably justify it if I decided to do photos on the side but that’s a very long time coming.

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!

FBFF: The Creative Process of Dressing for the Day

Sneak peek!  FBFF is going up an hour early on the new blog!

For the Fashion Beauty Friend Friday questions this week, Katy reflected on outfit planning:

I was reading a couple blogs the other day that mentioned pre-planning outfits for the whole week or spending hours in the closet trying things on to find new outfits to wear. So then I wondered… how many fashion bloggers do this? How much of it is just random selection and how much of what we see is pre-determined?

For me, I think it’s a bit of both.

1. How do you determine what you will wear that day? Sometimes at night I might pull a few things from my closet for the next day.  I might end up with an entire look or I might not pull it together until the next day.  What I get together is definitely directly related to how inspired/creative/overly caffeinated I am at that point in time. A lot of bloggers start with one piece and build around it, but I only occasionally pull things together like that.  I’m more of a general concept dresser— I start with an idea or a bit of a theme like edgy, romantic, bohemian…

2. Do you plan outfits out in advance for a whole week, month, weekend? Yikes, definitely not, I’m not that careful or organized!  The only time I plan is when I’m packing for a trip, especially an extended one.  When I do put things together for packing I take photos with my iPhone.  I really need a valet bar because I hang things up on the doors of my wardrobe.  It’s usually impossible to close!

(Look familiar?  L to R: wardrobe door/valet bar look for Toronto, love but didn’t buy, polka dots)

3. Do you have any specific way of tracking outfits and items already worn so you don’t repeat? I can usually remember exactly when I’ve last worn something, I’m one of those people that connects clothing with events so outfits usually write themselves into my memory.  And, of course, I have photos with metadata and tags on blog posts to help me out!  Flickr too!

4. How do you discover new combinations of items in your closet?  (Trial try-ons?  Hanging items together?) I almost always discover some new way of wearing something at midnight when I’m heavily caffeinated and extremely underslept.  That late at night I’m looking for something to wear the next day and probably feeling like I can’t do anything new… and then I just pick up something random and it begins to come together :)  Of course, nothing beats trying things on, sometimes things you think will look great actually look… ridiculous.  That happens to me a lot.

(Potential outfits I liked but didn’t wear. Will be photographed (with some tweaks) in the future.)

5. To streamline the process for 2011 what is one new thing you can do to cut down your dressing time? I really need to take the pile (it’s a small mountain, really) of things that are supposed to be altered to the tailor.  So I don’t keep picking things out of if, become dissatisfied with the fit, and them promptly throw them down again :)

Lately I’ve also been snapping photos of things I like the idea of, might want to buy, or just for general inspiration. I keep them on my phone but I’m thinking about loading them to Flickr and using tags to keep them organized and easy to access!  Then I can share them more easily too!

(Anthropologie Toronto display, J.Crew catalogue girls glitter oxfords, J.Crew SoHo display)

Interested in joining FBFF by ModlyChic?

Email katy_rose1@yahoo.com or join the FBFF Google Group!