cowgirl at heart

Won Hundred Denim Top / Etre Cecile Star Denim / Matt Bernson Clogs (similar) / Zac Zac Posen Bag / Vintage Choker / Vintage Levi's Belt

Not sure if it's the western trend that stuck with me since it's return a few years back or perhaps the original influence of my birthplace of "the great state of Texas", but notes of denim, vintage Levi's paraphernalia, and metal accents tend to creep up in my everyday dressing. These classic items are fail-proof and my favorite thing that brands have been doing are taking those pieces and updating them with a fresh twist. Take these boyfriend/mom-fit jeans for instance, Etre Cecile has added an embroidered star print for something fun and different. The denim work shirt takes a minimalist update from brands like Won Hundred. And metal accents finish off a vintage choker and clean leather clog. It's all in the fine details that take items (and outfits) from 0 to 100. Shop the links above to check out these cowgirl favorites and more.

xx
e

Photography by @sophiesahara

Tassel Talker

The bag: The Tassel Bag

Why I love it: I immediately fell in love with this bag because of it’s 70s influence with the saddle shape and tassel detail. #avintagevice Need I say more?

The outfit: Playing into that 70s vibe (my dad did wear a white tux on his wedding day) and adding a touch of Parisian influence, I decided to rock an all white suit. In easy lightweight cotton and linens, this suited look is one that is elevated but doesn’t leave me feeling stuffy. Stylist tip: By keeping the look neutral from head to toe, you elongate yourself (no matter how tall or short you really are) and let the tassels do the talking.

The location: We shot this look in my all time favorite neighborhood: the West Village. You haven’t been to New York until you’ve been to here. The ambience, the people, the stores, the cafes. My first summer interning in NY I spent 3 hours wandering in the WV with no map and it was maybe the best 3 hours of my life. And just about any outfit is perfect in the WV as long as it feels like you.

If I could sum this look up in three words I’d say: 70s, fresh, relaxed.

xx
e

Photography by @j2martinez / jmrtnz.com

Imagine

Tibi Top / Citizens of Humanity Flares (on sale!) / Burton Platforms (similar)

IMAGINE BY JOHN LENNON

Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today... Aha-ah...

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace... You, ..

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world... You, ..

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Photography by @j2martinez / jmrtnz.com

SoHo Dreamin'

Mr. Larkin Top / AMO Denim / Vintage Baker Heels (similar or here)

Two of my favorite things in NYC: SoHo and fire escapes. I personally have deemed my fire escape my "deck" and use it for everything from morning coffee to photoshoots. This specific "scape" was in SoHo which is just... beautiful. Avoid Broadway and hit Crosby, Mercer, and Elizabeth for the best shops (especially those unique to NYC). Speaking of unique things, you know I love to highlight new brands that are making a statement. Mr. Larkin is doing just that. Fresh silhouettes and patterns, this transcontinental brand is producing pieces with ease, sensibility, and that special touch of something different. I loved the "handsy" print on this Mr. Larkin boxy top in soft pastel colors. Contrasted with a raw edge denim and chunky kitten heels, I found a perfect uniform equation that will take me seamlessly into spring. Shop the links above to get the full look and head into the SoHo side streets (or nearest fire escape) on your next Manhattan trip!

xx
e

Photography by Daniela Spector

Bowie Approved

Ulla Johnson Blazer + Pant / Coclico Mule

In my personal opinion, there is nothing chicer than a woman in a suit. Whether you go sharp and taliored or light and loose, it's clean, put together, and effortless. I love a good white on white look and so this suit by Ulla Johnson was an instant fave. Oversized feel, no top, and a mule feels current, fresh, and springy. Fittingly enough, I ran into one of my favorite restaurants while shooting this look that had a special dedication to David Bowie. Worlds aligned as he was one of the first major musicians to rock the white suit in 70s. Just another great example of fashion's cyclical nature and how so many modern trends are rooted in vintage :)

xx
e

Photography by Becky Siegel

Wardrobe Essentials

Apiece Apart Coat / AMO Denim Jacket and Relaxed Skinnies / Ribbed Turtleneck / Aldo Booties (similar)/ Vintage Sunnies (similar)

One area of my closet that I am always trying to improve is the section of essentials. Each season, I find a new item that needs refreshing or a new style that I repeatedly find myself reaching for.  I've rounded up my current essential improvements into one killer look. 

·       Clean Coat - No matter the season, a clean coat can instantly lift a look. I loved the lightweight nature and simplistic design behind this one by Apiece Apart. It "chics-up" just about everything I pair it with making it a perfect closet essential (especially the days you don't want to put too much thought into your look). Throw it on top and you're done.

·       Denim Jacket - We all know I'm a denim whore and 90s lover, so the denim jacket is always a staple in my closet. I probably have about 7-8 of them and can always find the right wash/silhouette/detail that I'm looking for. This gem by favorite AMO denim is the quintessential blue and perfect fitted shape.

·       Relaxed Jeans - Perfect for those rainy, PMS-ing, or anti-anything-tight days, a relaxed-fit jean is ALL I've been wearing lately. It's easy, comfy, and I can wear from running around on set straight to the bar for happy hour.

·       Turtleneck - I’ve talked enough about this one. #minimalismforever

·       Point Toe Bootie - If you’re vertically challenged like me (or not), the point toe bootie is an instant leg-lengthener. Constantly on refresh in my closet (mostly because I’ve completely demolished the last pair by wearing them 500 times), they go with just about everything! If they have a bit of a heel, even better. I’m not usually a big patent person but since Dior brought out those patent/Lucite booties, I’ve been gravitating more and more to it (And they repel water better than normal leather as an added bonus!) This pair by Aldo caught my eye and you can shop similar styles in the links above.

·       Unique Sunnies – Last, but not least a great pair of sunglasses that have a bit of quirk to them can always add depth to a look. These are one of my favorites scored at the Brooklyn Flea Market for a mere $30. So Amy Adams in American Hustle, am I right? Having a fun pair to throw on with a minimal look to spice it up or add to an all out 70s disco vibe is everything.

Check out the links above to get my wardrobe essentials and even better, add them all together for a great outfit in a snap.

xx
e

Happy 2 Year Anni

PRESS PLAY

I can't believe it's already been two years still I started this little nugget. I cannot thank YOU enough. My readers, my followers, my cheerleaders, I would not be where I am today with out you! Special thanks to my family, friends, brand collaborators and photographers for believing in this crazy fashion lady who just wants to create beautiful art and shine light on what this industry is all about. This past year has been a whirlwind of inspirations, mentoring, job changes, and creative development that has shaped me into a better stylist, blogger, and person all around. Thank you AGAIN from the bottom of my heart. To another year full of vintage vices and many more. 

xx
e

Video by Erica Fishman

A Bit Like Twiggy

AMO Denim Jacket / Halston Sweater / Markoo Leather Skirt (similar or here)/ Falke Tights / Jeffrey Campbell Shoes / Cambridge Satchel Bag

I'm typically torn between the 70s or the 90s being my favorite throwback era and times that my looks are often inspired by (or purchased from). But lately, I have found myself drawn to that mid-sixties Twiggy vibe that has you feeling like the coolest Londoner in the room. Mini + turtleneck + square toe bootie = hello Lesley Lawson. I loved the button detailing and stiff leather on this mini by new brand discovery, Markoo. I combined it with my current addiction, turtlenecks, but one with a unique cutout neckline and bell sleeve (a bit of 70s snuck in there with disco favorite Halston). Finished with a classic denim jacket, oxford inspired bootie, and briefcase-like satchel, I successfully achieve that quintessential 60s supermodel look. Shop the links above to add a bit of Twiggy into your 2016 wardrobe.

xx
e

Photography by Annis Kamera

Short Story of an Outfit

Ganni Bomber and Blouse / Awoke Vintage Leather Dress (similar or here) / Falke Tights / Miista Boots / Aldo Backpack / Alibi Earring / Pared Sunnies

The Outfit.
Still sifting thru photos of copious street style outfits as Paris Fashion Week slowly comes to a close.... Though I didn't make it this year to that beautiful city, I still managed to have a bit of fun with my looks during NYFW. This one included. Famous for their reworked leather, Awoke Vintage churned out this leather "overall dress" that was basically needs to worn immediately by Alexa Chung. (Am I right?!) Needless to say, I knew I needed it the moment I saw it. But what to pair with it? A stray away from the typical neutral, I played with patterns in my favorite color (besides black, white, grey and beige of course), blue. A thin striped blouse against a shiny, silky, floral printed bomber were just the additions that this dress needed to be taken to the next level.

The Shoe. 
Nothing goes with a mini more than pointy-ass boots. These things are leathal and lovely. The pebbled and somewhat metallic nature on these Miista booties are everything I'm looking for in a cool shoe that takes you thru every season seamlessly. Leg-elongating, man-repelling, and easy on the eyes? I'll take 'em.

The Bag.
While we like to look at most FW images and think that the fashionistas are running thru these crazy days with nothing more than a matchbox sized clutch.... don't forget their Escalades parked around the corner holding the contents of the rest of their purses. For us NY ladies who don't have the luxury and/or who value the (usual) timeliness and savings of the Subway, we get resourceful with our carryalls. Insert, the backpack. While I love a good old school Jansport, the backpack made a comeback in the streetstyle scene a few years ago in a much chicer and elevated form. I love how this Aldo one is super structured, minimal, and black of course. I can virtually wear it with anything and it fits just about everything from an extra pair of sneaks to dry shampoo. 

The Accessories.
Last but not least, those little pieces that add the perfect final touch. I typically neglect the jewelry area as a bit of minimalist but these earrings could not not be worn. They're the kind of earring that you wear while Stairway to Heaven plays in the background of your entrance. And paired with some wild cheetah, flat-top sunnies, I was airing on the edge of feeling like a total rockstar. 

Welp. I just gave you my life story into that look. It was a favorite and I hope you enjoyed it, too :) Shop the links til you drop, ladies. Shop til you drop.

xx
e

Photography by Becky Siegel

<3 Rodebjer

Rodebjer Jacket & Pants / Awoke Vintage Mockneck (similar) / Matt Bernson Flats / Zac Zac Posen Bag (or here)/ Super Sunglasses / Alibi Ear Chain

After discovering Rodebjer during my time at Shopbop, I've been head over heels in love with the brand. Ever-evolving but rooted in it's ease and leisure, designer Carin Rodebjer has beautifully crafted a modern line with silhouettes that women want to wear everyday.

A sucker for breezy pants, I was immediately drawn to these trousers with a springy but not overly floral print. I contrasted the slinky quality of the trousers by pairing them with a structured topper and turtleneck with metallic sheen. Keeping that minimalist but quirky feel, I accessorized the look with stark-white flats, mirrored sunnies, geometric crossbody and a sleek chain earring. Shop the links above and click HERE for a closer look at Rodebjer.

xx
e

Photography by Becky Siegel

A Little Rock & Roll

Kiliwatch Paris Vintage Jacket (similar) / Helmut Lang Top / SmithLab Scarf / A Gold E Denim / Tibi Mule

Channeling my love for some 70s rock & roll vibes with this look. The skinny scarf made a comeback thanks to Chloe's FW15 show and it's been knocking on every fashion girl's door since. I'd been endlessly searching for the perfect, thin scarf that was quality made and not a million dollars. I finally found the one via Etsy shop, SmithLab. Quality silk, the perfect length and width, this scarf will last me a life time. I added it to this beautiful threadbare tunic, distressed (and super soft I might add) jeans, and a classic mule. It was freezing when taking these shots so the fur was necessary and also happened to be the perfect finishing touch to this 70s rock comeback look. Shop the links above to channel your inner Joan Jett.

xx
e

Photography by Becky Siegel

Balancing Act

Maison Scotch Top / Frame Jeans / Mansur Gavriel Tote / Vintage Booties (similar)

A big factor when I'm traveling (and for life in general) is finding pieces that balance comfort and style. These Frame jeans were my heaven while traveling to four cities in two weeks on #avveurotrip. Soft as butter and oversized fit gave them that sweatpant feel without looking disheveled. To stay cool, I loved pairing the jeans with airy tops like this Maison Scotch. Super thin cotton and intricate embroidery breathed some life into the look both figuratively and literally. I finished off the look with these amazing western-inspired, vintage mules and malleable leather tote. Shop the links above for a look that not only looks good but feels good, too.

xx
e

Photography by Savannah Davis

Mod Mama

Kiliwatch Paris Vintage Denim Dress (here or here)/ Stuart Weitzman OTK Boots / Cambridge Satchel x Vivienne Westwood Crossbody

I swoon for most things denim and/or tent-like. So when I spotted this "coat dress" while vintage shopping in Paris, I had to have it. In pristine condition, this distinct mod-inspired piece could be worn as a jacket or a dress like I did here. Stiff, dark denim with seam detailing and exaggerated collar had me weak at the knees. What could be taken in a dated direction, I pushed it to a more modern interpretation (true to form) by pairing it with over the knee suede boots and a classic mini satchel. Unbutton the bottom for a little leg or not, this look could take you from the streets of NYFW to brunching in Brooklyn. Check out the links above to discover one of my favorite Parisian vintage shops and where to find a similar look!

xx
e

Photography by Becky Siegel

Not Your Basic Holiday Gift Guide

'Tis the season for gifting and I wanted to share some brands and pieces that will make your gift anything but basic. Take a step inside my apartment…

Tom Dixon Tank Vase, Hex Bowl , Candle / Sunday Somewhere Sunnies /Clare V Clutch / Coach Watch / Phyllis + Rosie Necklace

Whether it’s the entryway table, the top of your dresser, or your bathroom vanity, having a “put together” tabletop can set the tone for an elegant home. The first three essentials for said tabletop include a unique vase, metalwork bowl, and light scented candle. Insert recent favorite, Tom Dixon. Known for amazing creativity and craftsmanship, these three respective TD pieces are the perfect start. Then, add your personal touches. For me, it’s well-made, classic accessories that never go out of style: tortoise sunnies by Sunday Somewhere, gold watch by Coach, delicate necklace by Phyllis & Rosie, and leather clutch by Clare V. The combination of it all gives you a chance to give your giftee a chic tabletop never goes out of style.

Jocelyn Fur Mittens / Inverni Beanie / Superga Wool Sneakers 

Cold weather accessories may seem like a typical gift but these are anything but. This knit beanie with furry top from Inverni is a gorgeous grey with pearl knit detailing and fur pom for some added fun. The ultimate in coziness? These black fur mittens by Jocelyn may be the softest things I own and are a chic substitute for those bargain gloves. Last but not least, Supergas are always a go-to gift for me. Mom, sister, best friend? They’re perfect. So it's perfect keeping with the winter textures that they added the wool in deep grey- an awesome update! Each piece is cozy and unique for that special someone.

Vintage Posters & Silver Tray / Tom Dixon Brew Cafetiere / Stove Top / Espresso Cups

I couldn’t create a gift guide without including some sort of vintage or “old school” element. I found these amazing vintage ad posters in a vintage magazine shop in London. I knew they were the ideal little quirky addition to my apartment and a great backdrop for Tom Dixon’s new café pieces. A cafetiere, stovetop, and espresso cups take your kitchen from 0 to 60 in a snap. Brushed steel interior with a high-shine copper finish make this set not only the best in its class for performance but look pretty damn good, too. Perfect for your coolest friend or coffee aficionado.

Rifle Paper + Co. Coffee Calendar, Card Set, Notebooks, Notepad / Kotur Get Smart Bag / Tom Dixon Candles

Another tabletop used by most, the desk. Let’s lose anything looking like it came from the 80s…anything plastic or questionable on material. Instead, let’s talk about some pieces from Rifle Paper + Co. Not your basic stationary company, RPC’s collections include unique prints and typography, as well as, collaborations with names like Garance Doré. A combination of a vintage inspired calendar, travel notebooks, fashion notecards, and punny notepads will set your desk for success. In addition, a great candle can set the mood for your work day. The elements set by Tom Dixon includes four scents that expel a sense of calm and tranquility. My essential for any working girl on the go or anyone who hates carrying a huge bag for a night out: the Get Smart bag by Kotur. Compact and stylishly designed with gold hardware, snakeskin detail, and a clip in phone holder… what more do you need? Talk about setting your girlfriend (or yourself) up for getting it done.

Christopher Kon Bucket Bag / Wilsons Leather via Buffalo Exchange Suede Jacket / Fujifilm Instax NeoClassic Camera / Vine Street Market Bag

What’s on my coat rack isn’t just coats. It’s also a Christopher Kon hobo, Fujifilm Instax, and Vine Street Market Tote. The hobo is making a comeback. In the softest leather with unlined/raw interior and detailing, the CK style is now my every day handbag that’s timeless with an element of cool—a great gift for anyone lacking in a great black bag (aka me a month ago!) In that hobo, you can always find my Instax. The element of nostalgia that comes with a “polaroid”, the instantaneous tactile nature of the photo is irreplaceable. Also in that hobo, you might find the packable canvas tote by Vine Street Market. Perfect for those unprepared vintage shopping moments or a quick stop at the farmer’s market, the tote folds up into itself making it easy to pop in and out when needed. This eco friendly bag is perfect for your granola friend in Williamsburg or housewife in the Upper East. P.S. Use Coupon Code - VINTAGE20 - at checkout to receive 70% off any VSM canvas tote online.

Morgan Lane Panty Set

Last but certainly not least and for the little girl inside all of us, the daily panty set by Morgan Lane. Talk about an old school but feminine vintage note with the day names and silky material—I’M OBSESSED—but there’s also a modern update with individualized emojis for each day of the week (perfectly summing up the days' vibes I might add). A fun gift option for any woman in your life. There’s more where that came from soon on AVV ;)

All in all, I hope you’ve enjoyed my comprehensive gift list that will set you apart from the rest. Shop the links for a winning gift or start for your personal wishlist!

xx
e

That Extra Layer

Vintage Kiliwatch Paris Sleeveless Suede (similar) / Cotton On Tee / Diesel Jeans / Hudson Booties / Pamela Love Earrings / Nicholas Keith Watch /Verve Rings

One of my many finds at amazing vintage store, Kiliwatch, this sleeveless suede "trench" was an epic one. I scored this at an amazing price and instantly loved the unique material, shape, and workmanship behind the garment. I could wear it buttoned up on its own or more as a vest like I did here. It elevates even the simplest looks and adds an extra layer of substance to the outfit. Happy early Turkey Day!

xx
e 

Photography by Melodie Jeng