the neon tea party

home decorating: my new uws apartment!

2011-10-11T00:22:00.009-04:00

[Pier 1 Imports, table $349.95, mirror $179.95]

Well hello there strangers! It seems that once again, my post-grad life has stolen me away from this lovely little blog o' mine. I've been quite the busy lady still interning full time at InStyle...and have I mentioned I finally got a home to call my own in NYC? Between getting the place to function like a real home and hunting for the perfect furnishings, setting up shop here on the Upper West Side with my roommate Joanna might as well be considered my second job.

Now, with the clock ticking on my time left at InStyle, my main efforts are turning towards finding my first job. And with that, I regret to inform, there will be more long gaps between blog posts.

However, home decorating has invaded my creative imagination and I couldn't neglect to share my ultimate apartment wish list. Here are the things I can't stop drooling over, including the vanity set above--my numero uno dream bedroom piece!

[Urban Outfitters, $329]

Obsessed with ikat print.

This chair would look stunning in my bedroom or living room.

[PB Teen, $229]

How I've managed to function over a month without a full length mirror

is beyond me. I've got my eyes on this free standing version from

PB Teen, or something similar.

[Urban Outfitters, $89]

The most exciting addition to our home will be my vintage record player.

This stand is perfect to nest it and my vinyl collection.

[CB2, $149]

Do we realllyyy need a bar cart? Eh, not so much.

But isn't the color amazing??

[Urban Outfitters, $49]

We might have to get handy and replace our ugly old light fixtures.

Loving glass lanterns and jeweled chandeliers.

[Society6.com, $41]

I was thrilled to find a selection of designs
from blog Paris vs New York now available as framed prints.

It's so hard to choose just one, but how can I turn down
Sonia Rykiel stripes and a cartoon Anna Wintour?

[West Elm, on sale $9.99]

Though Halloween is around the corner and
these are too appropriate, I generally adore glitter skulls.

One of these guys would live perfectly among my
collection of tchotchkes.

[West Elm, $29]
Cannot get these paper mache antlers from
West Elm off my mind. A vegan version of trendy taxidermy
and a perfect place to hang necklaces and scarves.

We're still searching for a faux mantle, a small round kitchen table, and a fun floor lamp. Have you come across any to-die-for home pieces lately that you can recommend? Leave suggestions in the comments!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

want this now: miu miu glitter booties

2011-08-01T01:20:00.002-04:00

{style.com}

A month and a half into my internship at InStyle's fashion department and I'm back to reality on this here bloggy-blog! I'll tell ya, working 11-hour days can really wipe you out. Nevertheless, InStyle is an amazing working environment and I love being there everyday.

My specific role as an intern is to work with two of the fashion assistants and our fashion market director in keeping track of the high-end designer samples we call in for shoots. This means I'm the first in the office to see runway looks from designers like Prada, Lanvin, Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs. Pretty freakin rad. Though my market is specifically clothing, I've recently deduced that my real passion in editing lies with accessories.

The above photo is of my favorite piece I've come across all summer: the almighty Miu Miu glitter booties. They are the perfect specimen of feminine statement bootie and I NEED to make them mine. Firstly, they're entirely covered in silver glitter. Enough said there. Next, I'm still having a mint green moment and I adore the color paired with silver. Finally, the illusion of a strappy sandal over what would be your glitter-covered foot AND that curved heel?! Not to mention, they look pretty comfy.

A similar style is being sold at Neiman's for $890, so I can only imagine these are about the same price. A girl can dream, though. I did snag my Spring 2006 Miu Miu sandals for $60 at a consignment shop last summer. If my luck persists, maybe they'll be mine in another five years...

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: brights and whites

2011-06-07T17:14:00.006-04:00

Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific coming in with
back-to-back posts here on the Neon Tea Party.

I couldn't resist sharing this look with you all:

Mixing brights and whites are a perfect bold summer statement.

It's inspiring me to create a similar outfit with my own white blazer.

Wish there were a close up of her bracelet combo, though, as I spy oranges, pinks, and yellows! You can check out her neons from Toronto jewelry designer Lauren Elan here.

Neon wrists forever!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

styling tip: short sleeve floral coats

2011-06-03T19:16:00.011-04:00

{via look | vintage coat}

{atlantic-pacific | coat by Missoni}

I love me a good floral jacket. (Well, let's be honest, I love me a good floral anything.)

What you'll find in my coat closet hanging next to a mustard leather Rag & Bone jacket, a grey wool Marc by Marc Jacobs hooded cape and my beloved Erin Fetherston for Target black heart coat: two floral trenches. Not one, but TWO. (For spring AND fall, obviously.)

What's so great about a floral coat of any kind is how it can add a load of personality to a basic outfit with little effort. Throw it over a simple shift dress or an ensemble of shorts and a silky blouse, add your favorite pair of flats and a statement necklace, et voilà: a super chic, easy and comfortable look!

Even cooler than a floral trench (a french?!) is a short sleeve floral coat. Peep exhibits A and B, above. With the breeze that's been blowing through New York the past couple days, a light short sleeve jacket is the perfect solution to beating summer's gentle chill.

Now imagine these beauts paired with contrasting elbow-length gloves in colder weather... Swoon! A perfect look for a neon tea party!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

color story: icy sea foam

2011-05-29T00:18:00.012-04:00

{stylesightings | unknown | elizabeth and james spring 2011 | essie absolutely shore}

You all know I'm partial to hues of the fluorescent variety,

but also I have a significant soft spot for pastels.

The two compliment each other perfectly!

This icy sea foam green is such a refreshing hue for summer

and I can't wait to try out this new Essie polish.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

diy: graduation cap

2011-05-26T15:38:00.003-04:00

So the reason I haven't blogged in 21 days is because I have spent the last three weeks living it up as a graduating senior, going on excursions to Martha's Vineyard and Foxwoods, making a quick trip down to the Jersey Shore with my boyfriend, going out every night of the week with the excuse of our last nights in Boston and entertaining visiting family.

Within all the madness, however, I could not pass up the opportunity to go all out when presented with the crafting challenge of cap decorating. While some paint a witty phrase ("Thanks Mom and Dad!") and others glue on a few meager rhinestones (sorry, Liv, your ΔΓ, really was cute!), that certainly was not going to cut it for me. Instead, I decided to explore the contents of my craft bag (yes, I have a craft bag) and make a collage using my favorite scraps.

First thing was first, though: it was obviously going to be neon pink.

After painting a thick layer of white paint and painting that over with two layers of pink, I painted some lace purple, made a ribbon flower, cut an "M" stencil out of a paper plate and laid everything out ever so thoughtfully.

A little rearranging, a bit of glue and...

Voilà! The finished cap in action, backstage at graduation!

Check out Alex's too- Love the hashtags!

Here's a closer upper but blurrier shot via Alex's Blackberry.

And so, in true form, I graduated on Sunday with a neon, multimedia collage of pretty little things on my head. Now that I have done so, I am back in New York (for good!) in search of a job and hopefully a great one. Possibly making more super funky grad caps? Yes? No?

Anyone want to hire me?

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

diy: bright bracelets

2011-05-05T20:13:00.003-04:00

School's out forEVER (today marks my last day of college classes) and I can't think of a better way to take advantage of some newfound free time than by making bracelets. There have been lots of fun and easy bracelet DIYs posted lately via craft goddess Erica Domesek of P.S.-I made this... and Honestly...WTF, and a neon take on one of Erica's designs by Brooke Andersen of Just B. Get inspired this weekend and make some bracelets too!!

Camp throwback cobra stitch, but with funky ribbon and utility cord

Inspired by Marni's SS'11 collection, one of my faves

{Erica Domesek for Who What Wear}

Another Erica rope design, this time with an S hook clasp

A take on Miansai's $95 bracelet for a tiny fraction of the cost

{Honestly...WTF}

Just B's neon pink take on this bracelet by Erica

All you need is some sturdy string and bolts

{Just B}

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

all things neon: neons + neutrals

2011-05-05T19:34:00.004-04:00

Love today's post on Who What Wear combining neons with neutrals. A pop of florescent with tame tones always makes a big statement, and this combo is just right for this spring/summer season.

Looks like the Neon Mom knows what's up.

Check out the original post here.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

all things neon: is that you, mom?

2011-05-03T01:05:00.008-04:00

Spotted at Sydney Fashion Week: The Neon Mom*

Thanks again, Tommy Ton!

*My mom would never actually wear this much neon.

That's what I was born for!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY, NEON TEA PARTY!

2011-04-30T19:20:00.016-04:00

This week marks two years of neon enthusiasm on this here blog! I'm so proud to have made it this far, blogging for 24 months, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon!

To celebrate, here's a list of some things I've been coveting recently: everything from kitschy banners to rings that perfectly balance fierceness and delicacy.

{fabric garland inspiration}

- - sewing instructions here and here - -

{free people's primal scream collection}

- - shop it here - -

{the perfect delicate statement rings}

- - tom binns and cc skye - -

{i'm a sucker for turquoise accents and swirly iron}

- - from anthropologie - -

{my dream house would obviously have a neon front door}

- - tips and more doors here - -

{a daily reminder to love life}

- - from catbird nyc - -

Peace, Love and 2 YEARS OF Neon,

Marisa

want this now: neon batchel

2011-04-28T17:54:00.007-04:00

{images via vogue and fashion squad via honestlywtf}

Absolutely NEEDING one of these monogrammed neon batchels from the Cambridge Satchel Company. They come in fluorescent green, orange, yellow AND pink! Alex suggested I ask for one for graduation. I wanna ask for all four. Mom? Dad? Please? Available here.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

street style: coachella

2011-04-17T02:56:00.011-04:00

One day I'll be at Coachella...

but today, I have Mr. Newton to take me there.

love the native american details

these necklaces are all sick

big floppy hats are a must

extra points for prada

fuchsia + red = winning color combo

thoughts on the jumpsuit?

mr. newton at coachella

photos for harper's bazaar and his site

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

editorialized: candy colored beach dreamin'

2011-04-16T11:58:00.013-04:00

{foam magazine outtakes, via studded hearts}

the model, zippora seven, is featured in the urban outfitters catalogues.

two great pics i never saw in person when the catalogues came out.

also via studded hearts.

{march '11}

{november '10}

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

from my closet: spring '11 resurrections

2011-04-12T20:45:00.006-04:00

With my spring clothing budget looking to be spent only on dresses for formals and (dare I say it) GRADUATION, it's time to go recessionista chic and shop my closet for this season's trends. What goes around does indeed come around and this time the 70s are back in the form of platforms, bellbottoms, John Lennon glasses and cool blues and whites. A flower child myself, these pieces have been long-time lingerers of my closet and will once again see the light of day. (Now that the long-awaited spring is finallyyyy here.)

Here's what I found:

{white blazer, garance doré}

I bought a white blazer from Zara a couple years back but wore it only a few times before stowing it away with my glittery leopard halter and homemade denim bermuda shorts. I guess it has something to do with the fact that I felt like a mad scientist ever time I'd try it on. Lucky for my cute little blazer, spring '11 says, "Bring on the lab wear!" and bring it on I shall. Maybe even with a pair of cropped white jeans? Now we're talkin' spring's other sartorial demand: MONOCHROME.

{denim flares, unknown}

My first pair of designer jeans were super-flared Seven Brands with lime green pocket stitching. Short and lazy 15 year-old me never got around to hemming them and before I knew it, I became a strictly skinny jeans kinda gal, sending the Sevens straight to the back of my denim drawer. Inspired by my newfound appreciation for 70s-style bellbottoms, I finally had these babies shorted last month and have been rocking them with heels ever since.

{turquoise nails, the man repeller et moi}

After reading today's Man Repeller post, I was reminded of the most amazing turquoise nail polish I sported much of spring '10 after spontaneously purchasing a bottle from an H&M in Amsterdam. (That picture of my toes was taken in Sevilla. Adorbs, huh?!) I've already painted my nails this color today and I'm pumped to make it my go-to color for the second spring in a row.

{black kork-ease platforms, zappos}

I was fortunate enough to snag these babies from a Teen Vogue closet giveaway on one of my last days as an intern there a few summers back. I wasn't so keen on them at first but became a quick convert when I realized that they are the most comfortable height-boosting shoes in existence. Conveniently for me, flatforms are the sandal of choice this season and come next month I'll be running all over NYC in these guys.

{rockin' round sunnies in paris}

These badboys hail from a tiny vintage store in Rome my friends and I discovered last year on my 21st birthday. We all found absolute gems in that shop that day, including my favorite navy quilted, chain link bag. (Also pictured) I sported these sunglasses today for the first time in months, SEASONS even, and I won't be putting them away any time soon.

What items from your wardrobe will you be resurrecting this spring?

Tell me in the comments!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

want this now: red fedora

2011-04-11T16:45:00.005-04:00

{photos unknown and streetfsn}

So I know I said I'm not red's biggest fan, but these fedoras are incredible.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

home decorating: the coveteur x britt aboutaleb

2011-04-04T13:06:00.022-04:00

The Coveteur just does not stop inspiring, hence a second homage to the site that photographs fashion big-timers' most treasured possessions. (SHWING! MAJOR EYE CANDY ALERT!) Check out my first post here.

This time, the inspiration comes by way of former Fashionista-ista and current ELLE.com Style News Editor Britt Aboutaleb, who, like me, appears to have obsessions with striped shirts, leopard accents and chunky rhinestone jewelry, as well as the chutzpah to paint a wall hot pink.

Here are some inspiring home decorating clues from today's photo montage of Britt's New York space:

use a vintage suitcase as storage for magazine tear-outs and photographs.

extra points for leaving it open to display your favorite flats.

dare to splash your walls with hot pink.

(or fuchsia, orange, or yellow for that matter.)

display muted vintage photographs on said hot pink wall.

upholster a salvaged chair with an old striped tee.

take it a step further and paint the rest of chair your favorite color.

frame a collage of treasured invitations, shopping bags, etc.

strive to maintain a general color scheme, mood or theme.

Also, be sure to check out The Coveteur's tumblr for a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process and a more complete view of their subjects' homes.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

favorite collections: still cool four years later

2011-04-01T03:08:00.007-04:00

I was so excited to see that not one but TWO show-goers this fashion month decided to revive this Balenciaga jacket from Fall 2007, one of my favorite collections of all time. I included three of its looks last October in this styling tip post on patterned dresses paired with grey stockings. I'll never get enough of the tribal patterns, scarf dresses, school boy blazers and khaki jodhpurs.

{streetfsn}

{unknown}

Those flowers for me, Anna?

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

one picture: pink is the new navy?

2011-04-01T02:43:00.006-04:00

So down with this theory, via Jak & Jil Blog:

"Pink is the navy blue of India." -Diana Vreeland

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

prized possessions: gypset style

2011-03-31T13:16:00.020-04:00

I've been obsessed with Julia Chaplin's Gypset Style since my friend Rebecca gifted it to me for my birthday this year. She knew I had to have it when she saw it, she told me, and she was not lying.

But what is "gypset" exactly? Chaplin explains in the book's intro:

"Gypset is an approach to life that fuses the wild and unconventional ethos of a gypsy with the sophistication and speed of the jet set. It's a lifestyle that crosses high and low--a surfer who is also a fashion designer, an artist who traded the go-go New York City art world for Bali's low-key tropical shores, a jewelry designer who would rather work out of a town in Mexico than in the über-chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés."

This coffee table book explores the origins of the gypset lifestyle and the lives of those fortunate few who have elected to set up camp in seaside bungalows and tree houses wearing designer caftans and piles of bangles and silver and turquoise, producing gorgeous sun-kissed children and living like they're on a permanent vacation. Not too shabby, huh?

Here are some pictures from the book via Assouline Publishing and Factio Magazine. Check out Assouline's other gorgous books on fashion, art, travel and the like here.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

all things neon: fashion month sightings

2011-03-30T17:48:00.011-04:00

Fashion month neon spottings courtesy of STREETFSN

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

editorialized: sasha for free people

2011-03-30T09:41:00.015-04:00

Looks like Free People is stepping up their editorial game--and shoot budget. The April 2011 catalogue features not only supder duper model Sasha Pivovarova, but also exotic animals like peacocks, baby leopards and baby Siberian tigers. Amazing jewelry with these looks and I'm loving all the long flowy skirts. Can't wait to see the whole thing!

The photos and video below are via Fashion Gone Rogue.

Check out this 33-second behind the scenes video of the shoot. Sasha's so freakin' adorable!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

prized possessions: lady danger by mac

2011-03-28T23:51:00.027-04:00

A few months back when Harper's Bazaar revealed to me the stop-me-in-my-tracks red lipstick their Senior Fashion Market Editor Joanna Hillman has been sporting lately, I knew it had to be mine. The funny thing about this is I'm not a huge lipstick enthusiast, though I do have a habit of sampling vibrant hues like fuchsia and bubble gum pink when I'm in a Sephora from time to time and have often contemplated making the purchase. Also, I'm not a big fan of the color red either. It looks great with my dark features and light olive skin, but when it comes down to it, I will always choose hot pink instead, no questions asked.

Nevertheless, when my birthday came around a couple weeks ago and my friend Morgan, a makeup artist at MAC, asked me what I wanted for my birthday, only one thing came to mind: Lady Danger.

MAC's Lady Danger is not a classically pure red, which is the exact reason that I love it. It is matte, contains a fair amount of orange and has a neon quality about it. (Hello!!!) Even so, it seems to match everything, even my new hot pink Free People top, and has so far proven to look good on all of my friends.

{photos by the talented alex ivy black}

Having worn the lipstick all spring break, I was so amped about sporting it back at school that I whipped it out at my friend Jessica's birthday party Saturday and proceeded to play makeup artist on my girlfriends. I did this too when I ran into my former roommate and sexy Hawaiian Cory at a bar last Thursday. I'm only trying to share the lipstick love.

I can safely say Ms. Danger has converted me to the cult of bold lipware. Next on the agenda: Morgan is set to send me MAC's Impassioned. Can you guess what color it is?

If you know me at all, or read my blog, or have paid attention to what I've said in this post, or are shielding your eyes from the color of my shirt, the answer should be a no-brainer.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

all things neon: orange lace, and fp spring '11

2011-03-26T18:03:00.031-04:00

FABULOUS news kiddies: this spring, NEON is here. to. stay. I dare say it shall live on forever, even if no where else but my closet (and this here blog, of course). But as long as designers keep sending acid brights down the runway, my favorite stores will continue to dream up neon confections at lower prices that satisfy my perpetual thirst for the brightest of colors and allow me partake in the fun.

H&M, my top pick for fast fashion mega-retailer, is notorious for taking close inspiration for its designs from the runway, which is great for us fashion victims. So when my best friend Alex pointed out this dress to me there, my second thought was: "OH HI Proenza and Christopher Kane Spring '11! So wonderful to see you at H&M on Newbury Street!"

(My first thought, of course, was: "PUT THAT THING ON MY BODY RIGHT THIS SECOND.")

{sequin slip: free people, necklace:

marc by marc jacobs, shoes: nine west}

A modest $19.95 compared to its $5,000 counterparts. Heck, it's practically FREE! How's that for rationalizing unnecessary dress shopping?

But even beyond the price, the dress is perfect. The sleeves make a statement with their elbow-grazing length while avoiding full sleeve overkill. The silhouette is a shift dress, NOT a body con dress, thank todd, meaning that the use of sheer stretch lace here is flirty not slutty. The length is short enough to wear out at night, but long enough to feel comfortable walking into Chabad for Shabbat dinner sporting it. And the color? Well, that just goes without saying.

And don't I look ready to attend my very own NEON TEA PARTY?! That's always the point, after all.

Here are the images of what inevitably inspired this thrilling creation:

Christopher Kane SS '11

Proenza Schouler SS '11

{all images style.com}

SWOOOOON! Oh how I wish I had to budget to acquire the real things for my wardrobe!!

While we're on the topic of neon and Proenza (what else would we be talking about, let's be honest), looky looky the resemblance between something off the same runway and something I tried on yesterday at Free People.

Free People

Proenza

SPOOOKY!

And while we're on the topic of neon and Free People, look what else I got yesterday:

Neon pink flowy collar blouse! $88 YES YES AND YES!

And while we're still on the topic of what I got yesterday at Free People:

English rose print flutter shorts with lace trim!!! $58 Wow, what a combo of elements.

In conclusion, yesterday was quite the exciting day for my closet and I am BEYOND ready for warm weather to arrive and let me wear my new purchases.

More Spring '11 neon enthusiasm to come.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

styling tip: freshening up winter looks

2011-03-24T11:19:00.025-04:00

It's late March in Boston and, surprise surprise, it's still freeeezing out! Not to mention today's random flurries. Having just returned from sunny and 80 Atlanta, I'm especially bummed about being back in the arctic tundra that is the Northeast. While my body aches to be swathed in flimsy tanks and flutter shorts, I am forced to keep my pants on. Literally.

Today I bring you two styling tips picked up from fashion month's especially gorgeous street style images. Both are examples of how wearing accessories in a new way can freshen up overly recycled cold weather looks---and can be carried out through spring. (If it ever gets here!)

up top:

{tommy ton for style.com}

{streetfsn}

Wear a necklace like a bow tie!

Add a statement necklace to a button down button all the way up, making sure to place the necklace neatly under the collar.

*Also, check out the double watch action in the second picture! Love this. Honestly...WTF does too.

down low:

{both tommy ton for style.com}

Wear socks with heels!

Socks with heeled sandals allow you to break out those pretty new spring shoes now. Contrast colors and patterns for a bold look.

my take aka today's outfit:

{necklace: free people, shirt: j.crew}

{shoes: nine west, socks: monoprix,

worn with skinny jeans: madewell}

Whattup crappy quality Photobooth images.

Here's to hoping for a warm April full of pantsless heel+sockage!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

time out: older women with crazy accessories

2011-03-23T17:14:00.005-04:00

{advanced style: age and beauty on nowness.com}

Me in 50 years? I think so.

Check out more older lady street style at Advanced Style.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

guest blogging for hip paris: not the louvre | alternate paris museum guide

2011-03-03T23:06:00.011-05:00

I received a lovely little surprise this afternoon when one of the gals from HiP Paris emailed me to let me know a story I wrote for them last fall was finally up on the blog. I had figured they'd all but forgotten about the piece but alas, they kept their word and the post is up for your Parisian dreamin' pleasure. You can check it out on the HiP Paris blog here or read below.

Even though I obviously think about Paris multiple times a day, re-reading this post and all the fashion news coming out of Paris right now (fashion week, Galliano dramz, Mugler + Gaga, rock 'n' roll Chanel + Colette pop up shop!!!!!!!) is making me more itchy that usual to get back there. Graduation present?? (Hope you're reading this Mom!)

Anyway, without further ado I present...

Not the Louvre: An Alternative Guide to Paris' Museums

{hotel biron – musee rodin/statue in

garden of rodin museum (dalbera; kjerstin)}

One can only bear the mob encircling the Mona Lisa so many times.

In my four months living in Paris, I must have visited Mona and her Louvre museum on half a dozen occasions, mostly while touring visiting friends and family around the city’s landmark attractions. You can’t argue that the Louvre is not fabulous, but one long spin around the place is enough to hold you over for a while. Luckily, during my last stint in Paris I had time to make the rounds of Paris’ smaller, more captivating museums and am happy to share these lesser-known finds with you now.

Dig sculpture? Need a spot for a sunny afternoon picnic? The Musée Rodin is dedicated to the works of Parisian and Western art’s greatest sculptor, Auguste Rodin. The museum, located just east of Hôtel des Invalides and within view of the Eiffel Tower, consists of an indoor display in what used to be the Hôtel Biron and a sculpture garden featuring a sculpture garden, luscious green lawn, pond and an area designated for lazying on lounge chairs and taking in the day—as Parisians so commonly do. See Rodin’s most famous pieces, such as The Thinker, Balzac, and The Kiss, and be sure to pack that picnic lunch.

Musée Rodin, 79, rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris. Closed Mondays.

{monet at the musée de l’orangerie (benoit deniaud)}

Been to the d’Orsay almost as many times as the Louvre? Want a Monet fix without traveling outside the city to the artists’ former local of Giverny? For the city’s most outstanding collection of Monet’s Waterlilies, head to the Musée de l’Orangerie, located in the 1st at the southwest corner the Tuilerie Gardens. This tiny, two-floor museum features two ovular rooms each boasting a stunning 360 degree display of the Monet’s most famous subject. Head downstairs to view the collections of Paul Guillaume and Jean Walter, which include works by Cézanne, Renoir, Gauguin, Modigliani and more. For more waterlilies and Monet masterpieces, head to the Musée Marmottan in the 16th, which contains the world’s most extensive collection by the artist. Located in what was once the Duke of Valmy’s hunting lodge, the museum’s collection includes Impression Soleil Levant (Impression: Sunrise), the piece to which the impressionist movement owes its name, series of Monet’s most iconic Giverny scenes and works by a few of Monet’s greatest contemporaries.

{musée de l’orangerie paris (erica berman)}

Musée de l’Orangerie, Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris. Closed Tuesdays.

Dalí fans, rejoice! Get your dose of surrealism at the Espace Dalí in Montmartre just off the Place du Tertre next to Sacre Coeur, a gallery plus store boasting France’s largest collection of works by crazy ol’ Sal. While the space is small and dark, the collection is fantastic, comprised mostly of illustrations, sculpture and furniture. Featured works include themed series, such as Alice in Wonderland, Romeo and Juliet, and The Bible. The space is even available for private guided tours and receptions.

{espace dali, paris and the musee de

l’orangerie, paris (tim kirman; mel toledo)}

Espace Dalí, 11, rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris. Open 7 days/week.

Sick of staring at paint-splashed canvases and figures carved out of stone? The Musée des Arts Decoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts) located in the northwestern wing of the Palais du Louvre in the 1st is comprised of an extensive collection of fashion items, toys and antique and modern homewares. Be sure to check out the two rooms dedicated to the museum’s extensive jewelry collection and the exhibit on 1980s fashion by French fashion houses, including Chanel, Sonia Rykiel, and Chloe.

{musée des arts décoratifs, paris (erica berman)}

Musée des Arts Decoratifs, 107, rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris. Closed Mondays.

Like museums but enjoy food and drink more? End your day of art gazing at the Musée du Vin (Museum of Wine), where for less than a trip to wine country you can participate in a genuine French wine tasting class. Make a lunch reservation at the museum’s restaurant (dinner not offered) and enjoy a traditional French meal with your wine. Then, take advantage of your meal’s free admission to the actual museum, which recounts the history of the monastery that now houses the establishment. Head to the museum’s website for more information on reservations and pricing.

{musee du vin (joseph collins; alex brown)}

Musée du Vin, 5, Rue des Eaux, square Charles Dickens, 75016 Paris.

My entry has already received seven comments and it was just posted today! The Neon Tea Party could learn a lesson or two in creating a following.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: hippie chic at fashion week

2011-03-01T01:04:00.006-05:00

{photo by mr. newton for harper's bazaar}

Poring through fashion week street style slideshows, I've amassed a hefty collection of saved images on my desktop. This one, despite knock-out look after knock-out look, stopped me in my tracks. The chick is speaking my language: hippie fur coat, turban, vintage tee, colorful scarf, perfect skinnies and beat up black boots. Put a fork in me, I'm done!

A major FW street style post to come. Hint: everyone's been wearing NEONS AND BRIGHTS!!

...and happy MARCH! Exactly one week till my 22nd birthday!!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

feather hair extensions

2011-02-22T12:43:00.015-05:00

{gettin feathered up}

Those of you that have seen me around lately have noticed a lovely addition to my head: I’ve sprouted feathers! And not just any feathers, neon feathers, of course.

Feather hair extensions are a growing trend here in Boston, thanks to some lovely ladies who brought them over from the west coast (namely Colorado and California) where an abundance of hippies and music festivals has encouraged a feathering explosion. About a month ago, my friend Katherine hosted a feathering party at her apartment where Boston’s feather ambassador/guru Janelle Jee came by to jazz up our tresses with these extensions.

{feather selection}

I caught up with Janelle after the party to find out about the origins of the feather craze and ask her, for your knowledge, how the feathers work and how you can have them added to your own lovely locks.

{feather guru janelle et moi}

So what exactly are these feathers and how do you apply them?

The feathers, which are 100% real rooster feathers, work like any other hair extension you may have ever gotten; A crimping bead attaches the feathers to your hair. These feathers can stay in your hair up to three to six months and can be washed, blow-dried, straightened—basically anything that you would do to your own hair. They do grow out with your normal hair so re-appliance is recommended. We get the feathers from fly-fishing shops (the feathers we use are generally used to tie flies for fly fishing) and through etsy.com.

How much do you charge for feather hair extensions?

For every bundle (four feathers of any color) we charge $10, and two bundles for $15. We then charge $5 to every additional four feathers added to a bundle.

Where do you do the feather hair extensions?

My friend Kayla and I began doing feather extensions at various shows around Boston and Allston. Our friends are in a production company called The Brain Trust who have helped us by giving us a vending booth at the shows that they put on. After our first few shows proved successful, we began branching out to other local production companies that were throwing shows that we wanted to see, hoping we could get a vending spot there. We also have been doing extensions by appointment, we are always willing to meet wherever is most convenient for both parties to do them. Many of our appointments have been larger groups of people meeting at one spot, which is convenient for us. People also come to our places to get them put in.

Where did this trend originate?

I lived in Boulder, Colorado for the past three years and there was a consignment store called Umba that my friends and I would always go to. A girl named Ysabel worked there, she is a hairstylist/artist/hooping goddess who began this trend by giving people feather hair extensions. It started out small but then a few weeks into it, you would see almost every girl in Boulder with at least a couple feather extensions in her hair. I can't say this is exactly where the trend originated, but in my opinion it all began there.

Why did you decide to make feather hair extensions into a business for yourself and how did you get started?

After my own feather addiction began, my friends and I constantly made appointments to get more extensions. At that point I decided to buy feathers of my own and do them myself to save myself the trip and the money. When I would come back to Boston to visit during my breaks from school, my friends commented on how much they loved the idea. A few of us last summer went to a music festival in Arkansas (Wakarusa) where Ysabel's friends had a vending booth set up selling feather hair extensions, which helped spread the idea further from Colorado. After moving back to Boston about five or six months ago, everyone asked my friends and I (we all had feathers in our hair) if we could do it for them, so the idea pretty much sparked from there.

Kayla and I have been trying to collaborate on so many different things in the arts/crafts (like painting, drawing, jewelry-making) for a long time now especially because we have such similar ideas and motives. We decided to create a small business incorporating feathers in everything that we do, not just focusing on extensions.

How can people get in touch with you about doing their feather hair extensions?

You can find us online here, or shoot us an email at kayjeefeathers@yahoo.com.

We both have work and class during the week, but are willing to work with you on a meeting time. If one of us is busy on a specified date the other is usually free to meet up.

Any last words?

We just appreciate everyone's support and love all of the positive feedback we are getting, and we love feathers! We highly recommend checking out our website because all of our upcoming events are posted there if you want to come check out our booth and our friends' talents as well. We have also posted an online store which has a few of our earrings on it for sale through paypal. We are working on getting other feather accessories on there like hair clips/barrettes, necklaces, bracelets, clip-on hair extensions, every and anything we can possibly get our hands on. Let the feather craze begin :)

Amen to that!!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

want this now: the ultimate neon necklace

2011-02-08T21:03:00.004-05:00

{photo from stylecaster via because im addicted}

I believe I am experiencing what I like to call a neckgasm---and it feels expensive. Thanks for this, Harley Viera Newton and Tom Binns!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

blog appreciation: the coveteur

2011-02-07T15:27:00.011-05:00

Recently launched, The Coveteur (who last week renamed itself from The Coveted, after a legal battle with The-Coveted.com over the name) peeks inside the homes of fashion's greatest influencers, allowing us to see what exactly is inside these people's closets and get the stories behind some of their most beloved possessions. To my utter delight, three of the first fashionistas to offer up their spaces are Mary Kate Steinmiller, Joanna Hillman (now at Harper's Bazaar), and Jane Keltner de Valle--all editors at Teen Vogue during my internship there and with some of my favorite personal style.

It was tough choosing the photos to include in this post, so you'll just have to check it out for yourself to see the rest!

{mary kate}

{joanna}

{jane}

I just don't think you can top these shots. You just can't!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

want this now: proenza schouler bracelets

2011-02-06T23:39:00.009-05:00

Well hello there there Proenza Pre-Spring rope bracelets. Feel free to attach yourselves to my wrists at any time, thanks!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

love this chick: natasha goldenberg

2011-01-21T22:31:00.008-05:00

{microscopic image}

{enlarged image w/ right column cut off}

{i gotta figure this shiz out}

{click the link below for the real deal}

I've never heard of this chick, but apparently she's a columnist for Grazia Russia. I came across this montage of pictures of her on Le Fashion and I am OBSESSED with her fashionista rockerchick sensibility. Statement accessories, loads of layers, 60s sihouettes-- girl's speaking mah language!

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

home decorating: lsd's apt

2011-01-14T23:40:00.012-05:00

Peeping inside an editor's apartment is certainly a special treat. These people live and breathe style, so their homes are a natural extension of their personal aesthetic and appreciation for all things interesting and beautiful. Here are a few of my favorite shots from Vogue's Lauren Santo Domingo's apartment, now on view on Vogue.com.

{nbd. you just have warhols in your apt.

not to mention a dalí in the room with the hippo bar.}

{i love to see fashion people's personal work spaces and closets.

this room combines the two. even better!}

{quite easily my favorite photo: lsd's jewelry drawer. swoooon...}

{it's fun to see how people put together their bookshelves,

combining books with other odds and ends.}

{check out that vinyl collection! i'd kill to check that out.

apparently lsd and her husband only listen to albums in their apt.

they don't own any cds nor an ipod dock.}

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

favorite collections: proenza schouler pre-fall '11

2011-01-12T00:24:00.012-05:00

{$10 says taylor tomasi sports this look at fashion week next month}

If there's mixed tribal prints, count me in! Proenza Schouler's Pre-Fall 2011 collection crosses ikats with faire isles and tribal stripes with wish-washy tie-dyes, eliciting my most dazzling Teen Vogue editorial dreams. Also crossing seemingly clashing fabrics (silks, knits, tweed, jersey, etc), it's the iconic Proenza silhouette that pulls it all together: long and lean are almost always the key words.

{i say almost in reference to this look. long: def. lean: ehh..}

While the collection's stand-out looks consist of oversized blazers paired with to-the-knee silk pajama shorts, I must say I am partial to the dresses (as I usually am).

{j'adore this silhouette}

{this skirt wins my heart, and is also destined to be spotted on taylor come fw}

{thin-strap tank over cut-off tee = major styling inspiration}

{call me jewish, but i'm digging the frum-ability of this dress}

The moral of the story? Proenza: You. Can. Do. No. Wrong.

Peace, Love and Neon,

Marisa

free people does paris

2011-01-11T17:26:00.007-05:00

{free people january from freepeople on vimeo}

Exactly one year ago, I was settling into my temporary dream life that was a semester in Paris. How appropriate, then, that a year later Free People releases its January '11 catalogue shot dans ma ville favorite?

The catalogue's ethereal images feature (seemingly) effortlessly put-together girls frolicking the rues of the City of Light in lace, florals, frills and frocks. Blending Free People's signature boho-chic aesthetic and classic French flare, these spring looks are my dream come true.

Check out the video above for a montage of footage from the catalogue shoot. You can also digitally flip through the catalogue here.

One thing's for sure, though, I certainly wasn't sporting flowing tanks and short shorts in Paris last January.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

love this chick: sienna in alfie

2010-12-27T01:30:00.005-05:00

{images from mama's a rolling stone}

Winter break at home is synonymous with melting into the couch for three weeks and bingeing on movies. Tonight marks NYC's big holiday blizzard of 2010, and my mom and I chose to celebrate with a good ol' round of Scrabble and renting Alfie on demand--my choice of movie obviously based upon Sienna Miller's cameo in the flick. Her character, Nikki, expectedly rekindled my admiration of Sienna's signature boho style and has me devising ways to construct my outfits in imitation.

Check out this article from Mama's a Rolling Stone on how to nab Nikki's 60's-influenced looks.

Hope you're staying warm!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

what i'm up to: the buzz issue 3

2010-12-20T12:14:00.014-05:00

If you didn't already know, then you know now: The Buzz Issue 3 is alive!! The issue, deemed The Music Issue, was released almost two weeks ago and the response has been incredible! For the first time, the magazine flew off the proverbial shelf and everyone I ran into that last week of classes told me they had not only read it (an accomplishment in itself), but also that they love it!

Thanks to our new highly talented and generally wonderful design director Alyssa Hoersten, this issue broke the mold of our school project-looking publication and pushed it miles closer to the style of a real magazine. With Alyssa at the helm of our design, the next issue is bound visually rival any professional publication. (Yay!!)

This issue contains our best fashion editorial yet, directed and styled by our fashion editor Natalee Ranii-Dropcho. The stunning BU student Sarah Miller, who graces our cover, is paired with BU student musicians of every genre, all wearing musically-influenced looks from Boston boutiques. The issue features four pages on Conscious Minds, an apparel, music and arts collective of four BU seniors, designer Bill Murray, filmmaker Ty Magnin, producer Mike Irish, and rapper Elijah "Soupa" Adamson of Green Street Records. We also cover Boston Fashion Week, profile local designer and BU alum Sam Mendoza, interview Boston-based bands Chester French and Takara Larson of Prince Rama, and offer up a plethora of suggestions for melodically-inspired ways to occupy your time in Boston (karaoke! jazz bars! indie rock venues!).

Issue #3 is not only our best thus far, but is also Allie's and my last as editors-in-chief. Fall 2010 marked Allie's final semester as a student, and thus, we deemed it in our best interest to hand it down for Spring 2010. We concluded that this is the right move, knowing that I'll still be around next semester to oversee the transition and lend a helping hand as an advisor and visionary director of sorts. We are so excited for the reign of The Buzz's second pair of editors, Michelle Gattenio and Rachael Cortellessa, to commence and have much confidence that they have the skills and passion to take The Buzz to a whole new level.

On the horizon for next semster: a re-configuration of the magazine's layout; solidifying our look, feel and content; employing a business manager to get our finances in order and recruit advertisers; and finally, TheBUBuzz.com!

When I was accepted to Boston University for magazine journalism and discovered there was no student magazine, I simply declared that I would just have to be the one to start it. Four years and three issues later, I am baffled that I (and Allie, of course!) made it happen, though I too often let myself forget what an accomplishment the magazine is. My only hope now is that The Buzz will continue publication for semesters to come and become a beloved resource for all Boston University students.

If you're based in Boston and didn't get a change to pick up a copy of Issue 3, we'll be selling again when we get back to school, so look out for more info!

Peace, Love and Buzz,
Marisa

styling tip: jewel-toned fairy tale

2010-12-18T23:14:00.007-05:00

Sea of Shoes posted these photos a couple weeks ago, and I am head over heels for both the color combo of yellow, teal, green and fuchsia, and the stunningly ethereal quality of the pictures. Enjoy!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: uo graphic tees

2010-12-16T10:48:00.019-05:00

The oversized graphic tees at Urban are currently covering the bases of all my interests:

{paris}

{france}

[french, and apparently night life]

{rock}

{roll}

{my childhood}

{my birthday}

Yep, I think they got everything...and I would obviously welcome any (or all) of them as a belated Hanukkah gift.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: winter wish list

2010-12-12T09:19:00.023-05:00

For the first time in my life since my middle school babysitting years when I first earned enough money to buy MAC lip gloss and A&F t-shirts, I have gone a considerable amount of time without shopping. Over the course of the Fall 2010 semester, my wardrobe purchases are as follows: a $24 army green military shirt on sale at LF and a $3 friendship bracelet from Urban. A whoppin' $27.

Not a penny did I spend when I went home to NYC in October for Rebecca's birthday--a weekend we filled with return trips to the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show, the 25th St Garage flea market, and Pippin, Rebecca's favorite vintage jewelry store. No trip did I make to Newbury with the intension of shopping for things I didn't really need but could definitely use to spruce up my closet.

This is what you get when you decide to spend all 700 of your dollars on a plane ticket and jet off to Europe for five days, working a mere 11 hours a week and earning less than $9 an hour. Figure the math and you'll see there wasn't, and still isn't, enough even for me to pick up a few oversized men's button downs at Goodwill.

The other night, Olivia joined Alex and myself for sushi chez nous and asked me what items I was currently coveting. When I thought about it, I realized I had spent all semester avoiding stores and seductive online shopping sites as to evade what I've been missing. Of course one's natural reaction--as humans are curious beings--is to subsequently embark on a fashion blog and web store binge and catch up.

{image from i want to be alexa chung}

Yesterday, I spent the evening teasing myself by browsing blogs and deducing all that I would buy, should buy, had I the money. I want to be alexa chung was particularly torturous, showcasing perfect pairs of skinny jeans, flats and loafers, tons of uber-stylish, comfortable heels, and babydoll dresses galore.

So after much blog browsing, general style analyzing and the return of my usual spending impulse, here's a list of the items I am currently coveting, dedicated to my fabulous and stylin' friend Olivia:

{the aforementioned second-hand oversized men's button downs, as well as some new in silk, ASOS}

{the perfect dark demin super skinny skinnies, Madewell}

{army green cargo skinnies, J. Brand on Shopbop}

{A black Temple Topper, image by Hanneli via The Man Repeller}

{This turban-inspired knit earmuff headband, Urban Outfitters}

{leopard loafers, Zara}

Speaking of leopard, my fashionable grandlittle Emily was wearing this Nasty Gal blouse at a friend's birthday the other night, and I nearly ripped it off her body and ran. (Oh hi, Temple Topper.)

And I still have yet to purchase a chambray button down! Am I really that far from the times?

At this point, the best I can do is hope for some belated Hanukkah gelt or look into pooling all my Geddes money next semseter-- too bad I'll be simultaneously saving up for a life as a real person in NY! Hopeless? Probably.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

what i'm up to: bedroom photo shoot

2010-12-08T15:20:00.010-05:00

This semester, I took an intro to digital photography class where I finally learned to use a big girl camera and shot pictures of my friends engaging in various poses, Comm. Ave. at night, and even award-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr. (Check out all my pictures here!)

My final project was a photo essay and I chose to feature my bedroom as the subject in hopes of documenting what is the most decorated space I've lived in in years. In addition to shooting a minimum five frames, we were asked to lay out the images to better tell the story. Here's my final product, showcasing all of my things: jewelry, books, perfume, postcards, my inspiration board, the tchotchkes on my windowsill and my bed. I think the pictures give a pretty spot-on representation of my bedroom. What do you think?

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

blog appreciation: smitten kitchen

2010-12-05T08:47:00.011-05:00

To follow up with yesterday's late night post, here's a bit about my current obsession with cooking blog success story, Smitten Kitchen. The obsession began last month on the day I happened to commence a week long fruit-and-veggie-only detox. Food (and the lack of it) must have really been on my mind as I decided to venture over to smittenkitchen.com and discover what all the fuss is about. By the next day, I had gone back 75 pages, and by Thursday, I had skimmed every entry and made a mental note of at least 10 recipes I wanted to try. Self-inflicted torture at a time when I couldn't eat a stitch of Deb's culinary suggestions? Yea, I must be sick. But as soon as the detox was over, I marched happily to the grocery store to pick up ingredients for two SK recipes: shakshuka and potato and artichoke tortilla. Guess I had eggs on my mind!

Shakshuka is an Israeli dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. This recipe was so delectable that Alex and I finished the entire batch in one sitting-- and I believe I ate the leftover sauce out of the pan with my finger.

A few nights later, my friend Eliza joined me for the tortilla, a Spanish take on the omelette and traditionally served in slices as a tapa. Savory, delicious, and another egg-tastic success!

This week, back from freezing Europe and back to equally freezing Boston, all I wanted was some warm, winter fare to heat up my chilly bones. In addition to throwing together a batch of mushroom barley soup for myself and Alex (who's been sick with a cold all week), I returned to Smitten Kitchen for a couple hot, stewy recipes: three-bean chili and mushroom bourguignon.

I changed the recipe up a bit by adding cinnamon. The recipe already calls for cocoa powder, and my favorite chili has always been one that contains the two sweet flavors. So easy to make, warm and satisfying in your belly and SO FREAKING YUM.

{All photos from Smitten Kitchen}

I have a confession: I cheated on my Kosher-style eating ways when I was in Paris and tried the boeuf bourguignon at Le Coupe Chou (no words.). But back to reality means back to avoiding the meat and dairy combo and SK's mushroom bourguignon is the perfect vegetarian substitute, as the recipe traditionally calls for butter. Two and a half hours of cooking, allowing the stew to reduce, and anxiously awaiting our supper, Alex and I drooled as the fumes of mushrooms and wine filled our apartment. And two and a half hours was definitely worth the wait.

So all around, Smitten Kitchen has made our apartment a happy one: happy bellies, a happy roommate (she's lucking out having me cook for her all the time now!) and a happy me. The kitchen is one of my happy places and I'll make it a point to hang out in there more often.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

blog appreciation: cupcakes and cashmere

2010-12-05T00:32:00.018-05:00

I often find myself one step behind the rest of the crowd when it comes to news, trends and other timely things--thus blogs are no exception. I spent a good portion of yesterday going through Cupcakes and Cashmere's archive, catching up on what I'd missed the last three years of Emily Schuman's booming career. (Kinda like how I only last month finally checked out Smitten Kitchen and consequently scanned through every page on until I reached the first post from June 2006.)

Thank you to C&C for providing me with this week's inspiration and a good kick in the pants to get my own blog into shape. (Really, what have I been doing all semester?? I did just return from a quick Tgiving trip to Prague and Paris to visit a certain special man friend--so there's that, but still not a valid excuse.) This girl has an awesome classic style, posts recipes with gorgeous food photography, and lets us in on her clever home decorating projects. She basically just does fun stuff all day and blogs about it: trips to flea markets and food truck festivals, baking cookies and pies, playing dress up for makeshift photo shoots. Now that's my kind of woman!

Here are some particularly inspiring photos from the blog:

{love the color of this mirror}

{rack of her current closets favorites, set up in her office as inspiration}

{another clever/cute way to hang and display jewelry}

{lemon ricotta pancakes nom nom nom}

{gorgeous anthropologie bowls}

{the girl knows what's up}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: j.crew spring 2011 collection

2010-11-06T10:21:00.012-04:00

J.Crew's Spring 2011 collection recently hit Style.com, and I AM DROOLING OVER EVERYTHING! Hot pink paper bag shorts with a scalloped hem, denim blue sequin maxi skirt, ikat print, candy colors with hints of army green (according to Jenna Lyons, this season's favorite hue isn't going anywhere just yet) and SANDALS GALORE!

I guess I now have no choice but to ask for my job back at the J.Crew women's collection boutique...

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: sasha and her balloons

2010-10-27T18:16:00.005-04:00

{sasha pivovarova by altamira}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

styling tip: patterned dress + grey tights

2010-10-25T09:47:00.012-04:00

These photos are serving as today's outfit inspiration. Try it out yourself!

Runway (Balenciaga FW07)

{pictures from style.com}

Real Way

{picture from unknown}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

color story: call her green

2010-10-22T00:26:00.014-04:00

You can never go wrong with a hint (or smattering) of green.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

styling tip: discovering the sweater-scarf

2010-10-21T18:01:00.008-04:00

I've been trying this out lately. Tell me what you think...

It's a look I like to call the sweater-scarf. A pretty self explanatory look, I'd say.

Step 1: Find a sweater.

Step 2: Wrap said sweater around neck like a scarf.

Et voilà: a fabulous chunky asymmetrical scarf--not to mention a convenient place to keep your sweater when you don't wanna wear it!

Be sure to use a sweater that isn't too chunky or long and preferably one without a hood. Cashmere pullovers and buttonless cardigans are probably your best bets.

Next time when you're looking for that perfect scarf that you just don't have, you may not have to go any further than your own sweater drawer.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: a prada party for the eyes

2010-10-18T00:08:00.005-04:00

{prada ss11 by the sartorialist}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

favorite collections: marni ss11

2010-10-16T16:19:00.010-04:00

Oh Marni SS11, I love you in all your leather bathing capped glory.

{photos from style.com}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

styling tip: roomy trousers

2010-10-16T15:49:00.012-04:00

While pouring over the images from last month's shows and choosing my favorite looks, I realized that the ones I was most drawn to exude a casual glamour--totally effortless, totally comfortable, and totally fabulous.

Baggy silk trousers are looking to be my new wardrobe staple:

{jason wu}

{3.1 phillip lim}

{michael kors}

{céline}

{dries van noten}

{photos from style.com}

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

blog appreciation: the man repeller

2010-10-14T20:17:00.015-04:00

Last week while browsing my usual blogs, I noticed that Le Fashion posted her latest blog obsession. Little did I know that it would become mine as well. Enter: The Man Repeller, a blog that makes me laugh almost as hard as that of Tory Hoen.

She writes about fashion from the perspective that women not only dress for other women, but that they go as far as to ward off the opposite sex (and sex in general) with their bold sartorial choices. SO. RIGHT.

My high school boyfriend used to cringe at the site of this black and white hounds-tooth cap that I wore all the time. Hey, I thought it was damnnn cute!

{i think he was just cringing at the sight of my awkwardness and bracefaceness}

The Man Repeller, better known as Leandra Medine, posted an entry last week that solidified my fandom forever, entitled: This Fall, Fashion Channels Yeshiva School Girls. TOUCHÉ MS. MEDINE, you are right again!

{picture from mr. newton via the man repeller}

Even funnier than relating to the verity of the post..

True or false: I keep a inspiration folder on my desktop of Orthodox Jew appropriate looks, i.e. long skirts, long sleeves and high necks. Dries does an especially good job at this. So does MK. Just sayin.

Guess I blew my cover -- ha!

Anyway, Leandra, you're one funny ninja biotch. Keep makin' me laugh girrrfriend.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

styling tip: piling on the bracelets

2010-10-06T20:15:00.027-04:00

Some subscribe to the belief that one's feet tell a lot about them: shoes, socks, and stockings represent one's profession, style, hobbies and interests. While this is certainly true, I much prefer to interpret the lives of others by looking at their hands and wrists. Bracelets, rings, strings and things all tell the stories of where one's been and who one is.

My wrists are constantly changing in the bracelets that adorn them--both the tiny bracelets that stay fixed on me for months, even years and the chunky guys that make their cameos to jazz up a look. While living in Paris and traveling Europe last semester, for example, I made it a point to buy a bracelet in every new place that I went. The result? I was my own scrapbook of my journeys!

While I've been doing the friendship bracelet thing since the days of Spice Girls and Limited Too, I must give credit where credit is due and admit that my beloved fashion editor muses' own bracelet choices have perpetuated my obsession for keep my wrists ever covered in stringy and chunky bracelet shenanigans.

Voilà Exhibits A and B:

{alex, jess and me in cape cod}

{this summer's usual assortment}

Check out my typical inspiration: editors' wrists in action:

{pictures from style.com}

Bet you're all running to your jewelry boxes right now to jazz up your own wrists, ya?

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: a.d.r. love

2010-10-02T12:07:00.004-04:00

{anna dello russo by jak & jil}

I <3 Anna Dello Russo. What a sexy biotch. And apparently I <3 Tommy Ton too.
Keep providing me with blogging material, Tommy!!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

favorite collections: proenza photo bliss

2010-09-30T11:24:00.004-04:00

Check out this visually stunning backstage peek at the Proenza Schouler SS11 collection on Tommy Ton's Jak & Jil Blog. Neon lace. Sequin close-ups. Crazy chunky bracelets. Could these photos get any better??

Click here to see the PS show in full.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

one picture: the muff

2010-09-30T01:28:00.003-04:00

The leopard neck muff--AGAIN ON STYLE.COM!!!!! AHHHH LOVE IT SO!!!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

love this chick: mk moment

2010-09-29T00:48:00.006-04:00

The outfit in these images from Olsens Anonymous, the top image posted yesterday, definitely falls under my top three MK moments of all time. If you know me and my wardrobe well, you most likely have seen me wearing variations on this ratty tee + chunky rhinestone necklace combo a million times. Well, now you know where it all started!

This look was also included in my August 2009 Olsen style collage post. Mmmmm I just love it so.

And speaking of Olsen, check out the girls last week on Ellen-- great interview!

Sleep tight, kiddies.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: what the editors are wearing

2010-09-27T13:36:00.019-04:00

To me, fashion editors are like the cool girls in school. They’re the ones who know what’s hip before the rest of us and set the trends both in magazines and on the streets.

As you may know, fashion month is well under way (this week: Milan!), and I’ve found myself anxiously awaiting updates on Tommy Ton’s Style.com street style album (a veritable yearbook of fashion’s top editors) than images from the shows themselves. Why you ask? Because I am ready for a CHANGE, something fresh, something new in fashion, and I need the cool girls to be my guide.

What have they told me is in? Camouflage print, military colors and details, leopard everything, denim-on-denim ensembles and camel colored coats. Love, love, love and LOVE!

{photos by tommy ton for style.com}

J.Crew obviously got the memo for fall and has an awesome selection of these trends, many of which are on sale now!! Camo print pants, dress, and skirt, flack jackets, denim shirts, a denim vest, a great camel peacoat and some leopard print ballet flats.

My friend Ana already has the denim-on-denim ensemble down, wearing today a lightweight denim shirt from H&M and a pair of dark lejeans (I refuse to call them jeggings). Personally, I'm on the hunt for a furry leopard scarf as pictured above on fashion's favorite redhead Taylor Tomasi Hill and the stylish show-goer above her. I already got my hands on an army green military shirt and you better believe that I've broken out my Abercrombie and Fitch camo cargos from eighth grade.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

what i'm up to: ralph lauren collection ss11

2010-09-16T21:25:00.017-04:00

Okay, so this probably goes down as a record for the longest time that I've gone without blogging--but it's for good reason, I think.

I posted my last entry on my first day interning at Ralph Lauren Collection and have been running around like a crazy person ever since, between moving back to Boston to start my senior year at BU, getting settled at school, Buzz meetings galore, celebrating the High Holidays and running back to New York in time for Fashion Week.

So it's pretty fitting that I am posting my first entry since my first day at Ralph on my last day: THE SHOW!!

I can't get into details about working during Looks Week, the fitting and backstage at the show, but I can talk about what's already been posted online! Like.....

MY FAVORITE LOOKS!!

My gal Frida

Hippie Goddess Marike

OBSESSED with this coat on Maddie

Bruna killing it in the silk jumpsuit

To see the rest of the looks, check out the show on Style.com.

UPDATED 9/19: To see the show in action, check out the video of the show on RalphLauren.com!

{shot of backstage after the show. can't see me but I see my intern friends!! from ralphlauren.com}

It was incredible to see the entire show come together to flawlessly the way it did and the collection surpassed my expectations it its beauty. I feel so fortunate to have had the experience that I did at Ralph Lauren this summer and greatly appreciate my opportunity to come back to help with the show.

Meanwhile, today very well might have been my last day ever as an intern. Next up: a real, paying job in fashion?! Could it be true?!

Guess you'll have to stay tuned to see what happens come May!! (Oh boy, freaking out again...)

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

guest blogging for hip paris: august in paris | summer happenings

2010-08-02T09:45:00.015-04:00

If you followed my blog closely when I was in Paris, you would probably recognize the name HiP Paris blog. HiP, standing for Haven in Paris, is a real estate agency that rents out stunning, fully-furnished apartments and villas in France and Italy--their specialty being flats in Paris.

In addition to offering these gorgeous spaces, the HiP Paris team provides a blog for their customers and other Paris-goers that is full of the city's most fun activities, delicious restaurants and prime shopping spots, as well as anecdotes about those crazy Frenchies whom we so admire, usually provided by my fave HiP Paris blogger--the hysterical Tory Hoen.

As an avid follower of the HiP Paris blog and a blogger myself, I reached out to the HiP Paris team this summer to ask how I could go about writing for them. A few correspondences, and voilà! My first HiP Paris blog post!!

August in Paris: Summer Happenings

{photo by (e)spry}

To most, August in Paris means one thing: les vacances! Each summer, following Bastille Day (July 14), Parisians ditch their usual city dwellings and head to country homes and seaside escapes for the remainder of the summer. This, however, does not result in Paris as a complete ghost town. Quite the contrary! August in Paris is a time for festivals and cultural events of all sorts, keeping tourists and remaining locals entertained and full of summer spirit. Whether you are interested in a high-energy music festival or a relaxing evening in the park, the City of Light has got you covered.

Fun and Games

Who said you have to ditch Paris for the South to soak up some rays on France’s best shores? From July 20 through August 20, the banks of Paris’ own Seine River and Bassin de la Villette will transform into veritable sandy beaches in this year’s 9th annual Paris Plages. Lie out on one of Paris Plage’s 800 lounge chairs under a real palm tree or partake in some beach-side activities, such as boating, badminton, pétanque, Tai Chi and dance classes. In association with Paris Plages, Fnac’s music festival, FnacIndétendances, hosted outside the Hôtel de Ville will feature over 30 free concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings beginning at 5 p.m. from July 23rd through August 14th. The line-up includes Arno, Arpad Flynn, Beat Assailant, Lafayette, and Acid Washed. Click here to check out the full line up. For more information on Paris Plage’s plethora of activities and events, check out the official web page here.

What would summer be without a good old-fashioned carnival? Spanning June 26th to August 22nd, the Fête Foraine des Tuileries has all the classics: a carousel, Ferris wheel, games, sugary treats, and so much more. The best part? It all takes place right in the center of Paris in the city’s most renowned garden! The festival is open from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 11 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Friday, Saturday and holidays. Entrance is free and attractions cost 2-10 € each per person.

Music

Every summer since 2003, Paris has played host to three-day music festival Rock en Seine at the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud. This year, Rock en Seine will take place on August 27, 28 and 29, and has a line-up that includes both rock-and-roll heavy hitters such as Blink 182 and Queens of the Stone Age, and cult-followed indie rockers like Beirut and LCD Soundsystem. Tickets are available through Rock en Seine’s official website and cost 99 euros for all three days or 45 euros for each individual day. Coming with kids? Drop them off at Rock en Seine’s Mini Rock, a supervised pint-sized children’s festival full of music and hands-on creativity where youngsters can frolic freely while their parents rock out. For the full line-up, practical information and tickets, click here.

If loud music and rowdy crowds aren’t your thing, or if you’re just looking for a cheap and entertaining way to spend an evening, then check out the Festival Classique au Vert, a series of classical music performances held at the Parc floral de Paris every Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. from August 7th to September 26th. Adult tickets cost 5€, tickets for those between the ages of 7 and 25 cost 2,50 € and admission is free for children under 7. For more information, visit Festival Classique au Vert’s website here.

Cinema

Cinéma en Plein Air will be hosting its 20th annual movie line-up at the Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement. The festival will show movies every evening at nightfall from July 17 through August 22 in the park’s Prairie du Triangle. Films range from American favorites Grease (August 22) and Juno (August 5) to French hits like L’Auberge Espagnole (July 30) and celebrated foreign flicks like Brazil’s City of God (August 3). For the full program listing, visit Cinéma en Plein Air’s official site. Movie showings are subject to cancellation due to inclimate weather. To find out about cancellations, dial 01 40 03 76 92 beginning 8 p.m. the night of the show.

Alternate outdoor movie-screening series Cinéma au Clair de Lune presents its films mostly every night from Thursday through Sunday at 9:30 p.m. The films will be hosted in various parks throughout the city, such as Parc Montsouris in the 14th and the Jardin des Champs-Elysées in the 8th. The line-up this year includes French films À bout de Souffle (August 5), Le Couturier de ces Dames (August 15) and La Science des Rêves (August 22). For more information, visit Cinéma au Clair de Lune’s official page here.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

getting crafty: apt decorating on a dime

2010-07-19T18:35:00.021-04:00

Lately, I have been spending much free time pouring over images on various home decorating blogs, envisioning the furniture, accessories and details that will one day make up my first long-term living space. While that may not be for another year or two or five, I can begin thinking about decorating my apartment back at school in Boston where I will be living with my Fall '09 roomies: my best friend Alex and our friends Sharona and Amanda. So excited to be reunited in Stuvi!!

For those of you that don't know, Stuvi stands for Student Village, the first of three Boston University on-campus apartment monstrosities that boast some of the best views of Boston. We will be living on the 15th floor in a corner apartment in the East Tower, which is the one that faces the city, as opposed to Brookline and Cambridge. Either way, not too shabby! But I'm expecting a beautiful view of our beloved Charles River.

Anywho, these blogs have got my creative decorating juices flowing and I CANNOT wait to put them into action in decorating our not-so-humble abode!

The main aspects to consider when decorating a pre-furnished, on-campus space such as ours are that we are required to use all of and only what is provided to us by the university AND we cannot mess anything up. With these restrictions, most students shy away from decorating at all, but we four chicas are not the ordinary students!

Here are some ideas of how to spruce up an unattractively-furnished, minimalist space on a student-friendly budget:

Hang a bulletin board full of your favorite things

{picture from pink wallpaper}

Most of my life, I have had a bulletin board in my bedroom containing photos of friends and family, concert ticket stubs and inspiration images. Ideally, my bedroom's or office's bulletin board would cover an entire wall, but we gotta stay small-scale in Stuves, so only half of a wall :)

Find or create a make-shift jewelry rack

{picture from good bones, great pieces}

It should come as no surprise to any of you that I have a lot of jewelry. And by a lot, I mean A FREAKING LOT. To me, my jewelry is more that just a way to decorate my body, it also has the potential of decorating my room. Displaying one's jewelry is a simple and virtually cost-less way to add decoration to one's space and display something that clearly reflects one's personality. This mesh screen makes an excellent jewelry rack once little tacks or nails are added to it. Last year, I was on the hunt for a pretty frame and some antique lace to make a jewelry rack to the same effect and I plan on using one of these two methods come fall.

Add turquoise accents

{pictures from good bones, great pieces}

I don't know what came over me this past spring, but somewhere between a shopping bag purchased in Amsterdam, a scarf from Paris and my own chunky stone ring, I have fallen for the color turquoise--especially in the form of accents. I found tons of images of rooms with turquoise accessories and I am smitten! Vases! Throw pillows! Accent walls! Patterned rugs! I want them all!! No doubt I'll be adding details such as this Target lamp to our apartment decor.

Place flowers in random glass jars, cups and vases

My apartment is located two blocks from a Salvation Army store. Last fall I was on the hunt for tea cups and found five beauties! This year: assorted glassware to line our windowsill, into which we can display perfect pink peonies. Maybe I'll also find one just the right size for our traditional basil plant!

Other decorating plans include finding a great couch cover to disguise the fuglymcfugly furniture provided by BU, perfectly mismatched throw pillows, and other brightly-colored accents.

Oh, and have I mentioned our wall fish tank?

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

P.S. A VERY SPECIAL 21ST BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT TO MY BEST FRIEND IN THE UNIUNILALAVERSE, ALEXANDRA IVY BLACK!!!!

employer news: jenna lyons is prez and 100 years of wwd

2010-07-15T11:17:00.007-04:00

Two exciting pieces of news from one current and one former employer!

{photo from fashionista.com}

Jenna Lyons, the force behind J.Crew's re-vamped image and one of my idols, was yesterday named President of J.Crew Group Inc.! So excited for her and the company!!

{photo from wwd.com}

Women's Wear Daily, the trade publication to the fashion industry for which I interned in Paris, turns 100 years old this summer! Thanks for keeping our industry thoroughly informed and up-to-date for the past century, WWD!! Here's to a hundred more.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

recent acquisitions: summer 2010

2010-07-07T12:09:00.017-04:00

While I have not been going crazy with the J.Crew purchases (most of what I buy is on sale even before my discount) or any purchases for that matter, I have picked up a few OUTSTANDING items this summer.

1. Panama hat, purchased at a gift shop in Sevilla, España

This hat goes with everything and looks good on literally everyone--even those claiming not to be hat people (cough cough, Alex Black). I love throwing on this baby with both casual and dressy outfits to add a special summer kick to the look.

2. Sequin striped sailor shirt, J.Crew

I posted this shirt on a recent NTP post as a J.Crew item that I was dyingggg to have--et voilà! Now it's mine! I found a returned XS in the stock room and made it mine that day! It's a good thing the shirt runs super big because the XS fits my Medium frame like a glove!

3. Embellished white fabric earrings, J.Crew

First of all, these earrings remind me of Prada earrings from Summer '08 when I was working at Teen Vogue. Those were black fabric with green stones and I was IN LOVE with them and their matching bib necklace. Like the sequin striped shirt, these earrings were probably a return and were on sale for $29.99 even BEFORE my discount! It's fate.

4. Miu Miu Spring 2006 sandals

{one of my favorite Miu Miu collections of all time!}

These shoes are by far the purchase of the summer. I found them two days ago at a tiny consignment shop at 350 East 9th Street run by a darling French-Algerian man named Matiell. I saw the shoes in the window, discovered they were my size, saw the price tag ($66!!!!) and knew they were mine. And Matiell was so sweet he knocked off $6 and gave my friends good prices on their purchases as well. I'll definitely be back there to see what other amazing pieces I can score--maybe he'll even knock off $200 from a $400 emerald green silk Chanel chain link purse. Hey.. a girl can dream!

Other summer 2010 purchases include Essie's Lilacism nail polish (seen on my fingers and toes in the above photos), a new pair of black lace-up Docs on sale at Urban for $39.99 (!!!), and THIS sequin mini stripe tank in grey from J.Crew.

I am building up a pretty spectacular wardrobe, if I do say so myself!

Alright kiddies, my friend Rebecca is coming over now and we're gunna make some lunch.. I'm thinking something including poached eggs. Yum!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

a series: waist-ed

2010-07-03T01:16:00.006-04:00

A little inspiration at waist-level.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: pastel polish

2010-07-01T11:07:00.013-04:00

Last summer's nail polish craze was all about the neon. This summer? Pastels, of course.

I've been dreaming about lilac nails for no particular reason for the past two weeks now, and lo and behold: many of the lovely ladies that joined in Amy's birthday celebration this week were painted up in the hue! Do I have good trend radar or what?

What must have began with Chanel's Jade last fall now has polish-lovers craving purple and blue members of the pastel family.

Essie's current resort collection contains three pastel tones (blue, green and purple) as well as a complimentary pale grey tone. Cute!

However, I am currently on the hunt for a true powder blue and pale lilac, like the ones I used to choose at the nail salon when I was seven.

Are those my dream colors I see in OPI's current Shrek collection??

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

EDITOR'S NOTE: Went to crewcuts the day after this post and lo and behold: they were selling the perfect shade of pale purple! Essie's Lilacism is currently on my toes :)

want this now: fenton/fallon for j.crew

2010-06-29T11:23:00.009-04:00

So not only am I obsessed with J.Crew's clothing selection, but I am also INFATUATED with their chunky, effortlessly chic, rhinestone-y jewelry. Even BETTER than J.Crew's own jewelry is the line that rock-and-roll hip jewelry designer Fenton/Fallon has created for the brand.

And as per usual, you could catch me staring at all the glittery goodness as I stride past the jewelry displays and mannequins around the store. I can't even count how many urges that I've suppressed to try on the rhinestone fringe cuff or the dagger dangle earrings.

Check it out... and swoon.

{fringe cuff}

{jaws earrings}

{rumpled rhinestone bracelet}

{rhinestone chain jaws necklace}

And there's even more where that came from!

Too bad my discount doesn't cover collaboration items. Guess I'll have to just enjoy the few precious moments I have with the pieces when I actually gather the guts to try them on in the store...

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

want this now: j.crew summer 2010 collection

2010-06-27T23:51:00.011-04:00

So if you've been following my blog or have spoken to me recently, you'd know that I am working at the J.Crew women's collection boutique for much of the summer.

This is a very, very dangerous thing.

For those of you who haven't been keeping up with J.Crew's merchandise in the past couple years, it's been shapin' up BIG TIME under the direction of creative director Jenna Lyons. No longer a one-stop-shop for prepsters and prepsters only, it has become a fashion forward establishment selling special pieces that every woman needs. Perfect striped shirts, party dresses, pants that fit everyone, comfy button-downs and slouchy sweaters--and all with a unique flair. And that's just the basic J.Crew line...

The J.Crew collection, a fancier J.Crew line sold at a higher price point, is spectacular and I spend much of my time at the store ogling all things sequined and sparkly that I would just LOVE to add to my wardrobe. But alas, I am working for a reason: to make money, NOT spend it, and so I continue to refrain from buying much more than just affordable work-appropriate clothing.

Nevertheless, I can still share my favorite pieces and lookbook looks with you!

{saint james shirt and sequin skirt}

{pretty petal skirt and starling peep-toe flats}

{stripe sequin tee}

{silk jumpsuit and sequined slouchy sweatshirt}

Love love love love love!

More J.Crew wishlists to come--that's for sure.

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

a series: (the neon tea) PARTY time !!

2010-06-26T00:56:00.004-04:00

Just got home from a night of birthday shenanigans in honor of my lovely friend Shlie's 21st... hence today's (delayed) post is themed: (the neon tea) PARTY time !!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

time out: hesta prynn

2010-06-24T09:03:00.005-04:00

We will now take a break from our regularly scheduled blogging to bring you a post on a supa dupa cool New York chick musician... HESTA PRYNN!

She's now joining the ranks of the electro-dance-funk craze and will definitely tickle the fancy of fans of the likes of Passion Pit, Justice and La Roux. Hesta Prynn is currently on tour in Europe with uber-indie chick duo Tegan and Sara and the three will take the stage TONIGHT in London at Roadhouse (if anyone reading this is in London with nothing to do tonight). Hesta is represented by 5B Artist Management, the firm that my roommate Amy is working at this summer!

This is Hesta's song "Can We Go Wrong" which I LOVE because of it's upbeat guitar licks mixed with body-rockin' electrofunkiness. Did you catch that? Hmm.. maybe I should look into a career in music journalism......

Anyway, this song reminds me soo much of a song, but I cannot put my finger on it--maybe it's something Peter Bjorn and John or maybe Grizzy Bear's "Cheerleader." If someone knows what the hell I'm talking about, feel free to let me know!

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

a series: i love ny and ny loves me

2010-06-23T03:40:00.009-04:00

Now that I'm back from Paris and in New York I feel it only appropriate to dedicate a photo story to her. Each of these photos reminds of the Big Apple:

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

a series: color scheme #2

2010-06-22T20:01:00.009-04:00

Voila "Color Scheme #2":

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

a series: color scheme #1

2010-06-22T01:59:00.025-04:00

Voila my second image grouping of the week: this one entitled "Color Scheme #1." Sounds artsy, huh?

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa

home decorating: dream apartment inspiration

2010-06-21T00:35:00.016-04:00

I must say, my priorities lately have been allll outa whack. I got myself a job at the J.Crew women's collection boutique on Madison and 79th to make up for my spending habits abroad and have dedicated all of my time to that, in addition to keeping up with seeing my friends. Not too shabby, however, I have had little-to-no creative stimulation--not even when I am helping customers at J.Crew because A. I am usually way to flustered helping 28 people at a time find items in their sizes to think about styling and B. we have personal shoppers to do the job that I would love to do. Maybe this explains my long-term absence from blogging: nothing to write about! And I am declaring that there will be no more daily accounts on this blog unless completely relevant!

So, now we move onto what my blog will contain. The next few posts will be themed collections of photos from my trusty "inspiration for life" folder on my desktop. Until I learn to use Photoshop in my magazine layout design class in the fall, you'll have to bear with my basic photo format.

My first themed photo grouping is inspired by being in my summer apartment in the East Village. The little kooky details of the apartment--the Godzilla toy holding a wash cloth on the shelf in the bathroom, the Japanese Amelie movie poster in the livingroom--have got me itching to FINALLY decorate my own place in NYC next year.

Here are the images that will definitely influence my decorating endeavors:

Peace, Love and Neon,
Marisa