Modern Lunacy

NEW BLOG HOST - MODERNLUNACY.COM

2009-09-08T13:41:00.002-06:00

Hey, guys, I'm now hosting this blog at a new location. Please check it out at modernlunacy.com

See you there!

Moving and the Clutter Chick - Part 2

2009-08-31T13:55:00.003-06:00

Oh, the joys of moving! I've moved so many times in my life; you'd think I'd have it down to a science by now. But in reality it's anything but a science, and I do tend to follow similar patterns when it comes to moving, and this move was no exception.

Stage 1:
Plan, plan, plan - I surveil the new place with the eye of a New York Times senior editor, take copious and precise measurements, worry about colors and generally fuss over every detail in anticipation of my new, perfect home where I will live in perfect bliss, a zen-like existence complete with songbirds and cool breezes flowing through.

Stage 2:
Pack, pack, pack - I gather the boxes and begin the packing process. I make sure to cushion everything with the care that one would use to pack the Queen's crystal. I label each box with specific information about the contents and where the contents are destined to be set up in the new place. I stack the boxes in strategic places, taking care not to block doorways or pathways.

Stage 3:
Panic, panic, panic - A total free-for-all. Clothing, soap, English Breakfast Tea, DVDs are gracelessly thrown in boxes, bags and laundry baskets. How on earth am I going to get all this stuff out of here in the next hour, not to mention cleaning the spilled syrup out of the fridge, spot-cleaning all the mysterious stains out of the carpet, trapping and transporting my surly cat, and spackling the myriad holes in the walls created by overzealous picture-hanging? I just got cleanser in my eye, and I'm having a dust-driven allergy attack that no amount of pharmaceuticals can beat. Go, go, go...!

We got the place emptied out, though, and very clean. I have to say that both my husband and I are dream tenants - we always leave the place better than it was upon our arrival. Installed shelves in the pantry, planted flowers and lined the cabinets with lovely paper. Mr. Landlord better love the place!

In the meantime, I sit here listening to the dishwasher (hooray! didn't have one of those at the old place) cleaning up the batch of dirty dishes created during the havoc of the move. Boxes, baskets and bags of untold treasures surround me. Time to start chipping away at it. Chip, chip, chip -- hey, what's on the telly?

Moving and the Clutter Chick

2009-08-06T16:02:00.004-06:00

The hubby and I are moving to a new home this month. I'm approaching this as an opportunity to purge a lot of the clutter that I've accumulated with the ultimate goal of moving into the new place with only those things that truly serve a purpose in the life I live now. This is not easy for a clutter chick like me, but I'm as determined as I've been in a long time. Stay tuned for updates!

Sniffle, Snort, Honk!

2009-05-12T14:33:00.024-06:00

Mulberry season is in full swing up here in Santa Fe, and my allergies are packing a whollop. In the spirit of allergen-avoiders everywhere, here are some cool Etsy picks for those of us who sniffle, wheeze, itch and cough our way through the seasons. Gesundheit already!

Clockwise, from upper left:

Nasal Irrigation Pot - haalexander - $30 USD

Soap for Allergy/Sensitivity Sufferers - wwizebody - $4 USD

Headache Pack - theferriswheels - $6.95 USD

Tissue Holder - catywhompus - $3.25 USD

KimberlyJonesDesigns Giveaway - May 4th - 10th

2009-05-05T21:53:00.002-06:00

Check out this designer profile and giveaway from the very talented designer behind KimberlyJonesDesigns. Her unique work is lovely and so striking.

Check out this link to the get the whole scoop, on one of my favorite blogs, Daily Finds & Giveaways.

ETSY THEME PARTY: BJORK

2009-04-11T00:30:00.009-06:00

I love the creative abandon with which Bjork dresses - people may laugh at some of her outfits, but they're just uncomfortable with her unusual, irreverent approach to adorning her body. I applaud her!

1. Cafe au Lait Butterfl y Kanzashi Mask - ccaspia - $15

2. The Mullit Soopa Chain, Limited Edition - Yokoo - $199

3. Vintage 50's Red Leather Gillies - TheDustyDog - $35

4. Schwarzwalder Skirt - madewithlovebyhannah - $58

New Piece: ACEO / Artist Card "Secret"

2009-04-03T22:46:00.008-06:00

This is my first Artist Card! I really enjoyed making it and am looking forward to making more ACEO pieces. You can peep it and other mixed-media creations here at my etsy site.

Etsy Theme Party: SHERYL CROW

2009-03-28T00:06:00.000-06:00

Today I'm selecting items that flow with Sheryl Crow's style -- gritty yet pretty, bohemian-meets-country, tomboy with great flowing tresses.

1. Vintage Turquoise Heart Pendant - unicorngem1994 - $85

2. Sunflower Mosaic Belt Buckle - harvestmoon13 - $75

3. Edie Earrings - SAEE - $19

4. Skullduggery Hand Embellished Jeans and Denim Shirt - 4getmeknot - $215

Newest Etsy Addition - The 3.10 - Artwork

2009-03-27T19:04:00.004-06:00

I always feel a small victory when I finally get a piece uploaded to etsy. Now to work on the others...

Please click on the thumbnail below to check it out. Cheers!

Creativity for a Cause

2009-03-20T20:15:00.021-06:00

Etsy Shop Benefits Aussie Fire Victims

Check out OzBushfireAppeal.etsy.com - a great etsy store benefits victims of the recent devastating Australian brushfires. A variety of great offerings are available for sale, including a section featuring houses created by etsy's Mixed Media artists group (Metsy) of which I am a proud new member.

International shipping is free. All proceeds go to the Australian Red Cross. Please consider the fine offerings at this shop. It will be closing March 31, and they hope to sell all the items by then. The proceeds from each purchase go to a very worthy cause. Cheers!

Mixed-Media Collage Work

2009-02-25T15:44:00.002-07:00

I've listed more of my small original collages on etsy! To check 'em out, click this way... ModernLunacy on etsy.

Japanese Wrapping & Recycling

2008-12-09T15:43:00.004-07:00

Just ... wow.

Furoshiki gift wrapping from RecycleNow on Vimeo

Now if I could just get my table to be that clutter free...

Coming Up Roses

2008-12-08T22:01:00.004-07:00

layout by mer mag; photos by linked blogs

Love the rosettes, always have.It's great to see them gracing the fashion pages once again, even though in my opinion they are timeless and always in style. Mer mag blog has a great feature, with links to tutorials, on creating these yourself. Link, to article from mer mag.

"Wardrobe Refashion" Update

2008-10-11T14:23:00.001-06:00

I have been working on several exciting things in the spirit of my Wardrobe Refashion pledge (see link in sidebar for more info.)

One of my proudest achievements is that I actually set up a sewing station (see photos). I know that this may not seem like much to those who are waaay ahead of me on the sewing ladder, but considering that my machine hadn't been removed from its box in the two years I've had it, this is a major achievement for me. I've sorted the massive piles of "I-will-do-something-with-this someday" clothes and scraps that previously occupied this spot. I have also been going through my closet and culling pieces that are ripe for refashioning. They are now all ready for me to dive in!

I have spent a great deal of time making jewelry after completing my beginning jewelry class last month. With the Mexican Day of the Dead coming up on November 1st, I've been creating some jewelry to celebrate that holiday. It's really gratifying to create (rather than purchase) jewelry I really love. I'll try to get some photos of my recent pieces posted up here ASAP.

I really enjoy this challenge. It's not easy - that much is for sure. But it really forces me to look at things from a new, less-consumerist angle, and it has broadened my creative mind as well as emboldened me to to say, "I can create this." And I can! That's really remarkably empowering. Cheers!

Madden End-Of-Season Bargains

2008-08-18T23:32:00.012-06:00

Steve Madden's website has some great markdowns on a variety of shoes, including some funky sandals, sporty kicks and chill flip-flops. There are some definite "ankle breakers" in the mix (so cute, but my feet start shrieking when I look at them so I have to move along.) But if you are a fan of high heels, you're in luck, since the current selection has some really fantastic ones. Check out the sale (click Clearance).

Many of these would carry nicely into the cooler months, especially with the addition of some tights. Or you could pick up some sandals and stash them away for next spring, when you'll be delighted to re-discover them.

Of course, in the spirit of reducing, reusing, and recycling, it's really great to take a few minutes go through your current summer shoe collection, weed out the (still-wearable) ones you feel should move along, and take them to the charity or consignment shop. Even a blatant shoe hoarder like me can do it. I can. I can. I can...

Double Take: Under Where?

2008-06-08T23:30:00.009-06:00

From fasionising.com -

"Underwear as outerwear: 2008 fashion trend

Sheer fabric is in; and along with comes a new take on underwear-as-outerwear.

In recent memory, any trends towards underwear-inspired garments have had their basis in corsetry. In 2008, bodices and boning have given way to free-flowing pieces that take their inspiration from delicately feminine lingerie styles. Camisoles, robes and slips are taking their place as everyday garments, drawing on the soft elegance of the 1930's."

Okay, I dig a wispy, lacy, elegant look as much as the next fashion blogger. But the photos that accompany the piece look a bit too much like the poor gals just wandered out of bed and are searching for some serious caffeine. Get that chick a double-shot latte, stat!

Time to re-interpret, so that a gal could actually make it down a city block without getting arrested or institutionalized...

The best part is that vintage versions are easy to find. The dresses above are both eBay treasures that are still up for bids at the time of this posting. Reuse, Recycle, Refashion!

Is Your Makeup Making You Sick?

2008-05-04T00:55:00.009-06:00

For me, makeup has always been an outlet for personal creativity and a nice confidence booster. But I was surprised to learn how un-regulated cosmetics really are - many can contain alarming levels of everything from allergy-triggering ingredients to toxic levels of lead. Yes, lead! Suddenly it doesn't sound so pretty nor fun.

I want to look *and* feel good, and I've found a great website that will give you lots more information including a safety-ratings look-up feature for various cosmetics in the marketplace. It also gives you lots of information and links that you can use to get involved in demanding that these companies make their products safe. Click the logo below to get informed and get involved; do it for yourself, your friends and women everywhere.

Covet: Sveta Pumps from Target

2008-05-02T15:25:00.009-06:00

When I like a style, I tend (much to hubby's chagrin) to order it in every color; heck, sometimes I end up getting a couple of the same color if I know that I'll be wearing it a lot.

These Sveta Pumps are available in four colors, and I know I'd personally like to own at least three of them (the silver is a bit much for me personally but could be really cute on someone who could rock them properly.) But I'm all about the brown, red and black colors.

Wouldn't you be happy to see these babies all lined up and ready to choose from in the morning? The very-important bonus is that the reviews online are really positive, and some even assert that these are comfortable. Holy Grail! (My size is an 8.5, just in case anyone was wondering...hehe)

I haven't given in ... yet.

P.S. - I believe that these, like many Target products, are also sold on amazon.com. Tra-la!

Restylin' with the brilliant Budget Diva

2008-04-24T23:57:00.006-06:00

Well, if you haven't yet read the Budget Diva's site (see link in blogroll at right), then you are missing out. I was lucky enough to win a re-styling contest she recently had, and since it's something I dig doing here on my site, it was fun too.

Original My Take

If you want to see the re-style in full-size, full-detail, full-everything style:
First go here for the original; then go here to see my version.

Once you visit her site, add it to your faves - it is chock-full-o'goodness!

How Do They Determine This, Exactly?

2008-04-15T12:36:00.008-06:00

Guess I passed muster.

I'm a bit concerned, because if my outfit -- pajamas and stringy hair at 1 PM --
didn't warrant at least some kind of further scrutiny, I'm not sure what does.

Even worse, the package was for the neighbors, who did not offer to share.

Double Take: Marie Claire Office Fashion

2008-04-13T22:19:00.012-06:00

Marie Claire recently included this look in a spread on office fashion. I am drawn to this outfit because it features a lovely silhouette and dramatically simple color palette. This type of ensemble would be fabulous for a party or dinner out. It makes me think of Paris in the Spring (the city and the season, not the skanky heiress in a fountain.) So chic, so simple yet stylish. Not that I've actually been to Paris, in any season for that matter, but you know what I'm getting at here...

Happily, these types of pieces are available at a variety of price points (including my favorite, cheap!) I found some very affordable, interchangeable options, shown in the clickable display below. Voila!

The Buffalo Helps the Tortoise

2008-04-09T00:06:00.009-06:00

As my pals know all too well, I love Buffalo Exchange for so many reasons. Here is another reason. Not only are all locations nationwide having an Earth Day $1 sale on bunches of items, they are also using proceeds to support the Galapagos Conservancy. Excellent.

From buffaloexchange.com:

FIND FRIENDS FOR LONESOME GEORGE WHILE SHOPPING!
Buffalo Exchange - All Locations
EARTH DAY - Saturday, April 19, 2008

Lonesome George is lonely again this Earth Day. Lonesome George is the very last of his kind, the Pinta tortoise. But with your help, the closely related Espanola tortoises will soon restore the ecosystem of George’s home. Bring tortoises back to Pinta Island in the Galapagos Islands as you shop for hip used clothing at a bargain! All proceeds from Buffalo Exchange’s "Earth Day Dollar Day Sale" will go to Galapagos Conservancy to fund a project to repopulate Pinta Island with giant saddleback tortoises. All sale items offered for $1 each at your local Buffalo Exchange on April 19 (April 20 in Costa Mesa only) will support this ground-breaking work. Earth Day benefits at Buffalo Exchange stores have raised nearly $211,000 for environmental causes since 1997.

Random Review: Chicken Poop Lip Junk

2008-04-06T02:01:00.000-06:00

If the name doesn't get your attention, you may be comatose. Yes, Chicken Poop is a lip balm with an eye-catching moniker. No, it does not contain any actual fowl feces.

The Good: I found a lot to like about Chicken Poop.

Look - This has a colorless balm that adds a wee bit of shine to your lips.

Feel - Moisturizes parched lips quite nicely. The combo of soybean oil (non-gmo) and beeswax feels very smooth on the lips. This has a smoother, less thick and "waxy" feel than ChapStick or Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm. Though I find this consistency quite preferable to thicker formulations, it does necessitate more frequent application, which may not be optimal in certain situations - you don't want to interrupt your ski run to apply and reapply, for example.

Scent - This is scented with real essential oils including jojoba, lavender and sweet orange. This ain't your 2nd grade Dr. Pepper lipsmacker; it's a more sophisticated formulation that is scented with oils that not only smell nice but are also proven to have therapeutic effects.

Design - The tube is pretty standard in shape; it's the name clearly emblazoned across it that is attention-getting (in a good way, I think, unless you're at a job interview or have a meeting with the queen.)

Price - At about 3 bucks a tube (or less), it won't break the bank.

The Bad:

Protection - No SPF, so it won't protect your lips from sun exposure.

Availability - Though distribution is growing, you may have to order online, namely at ilovechickenpoop.com (where you can learn the origin of the unique name) or drugstore.com. This limited distribution issue can be changed, of course, if enough people march into their local stores and demand Chicken Poop, Chicken Poop!

The Lowdown:
I dig da Poop. It's nice - the feel, the relaxing scent, the healthy and moisturizing ingredients and the slightly subversive packaging. And if you're ever needing a conversation starter, a tube of this in your purse is true gold.

My Rating: out of five. Getcha some!

My Double Take: Rachel Comey Sp/Su 2008

2008-03-27T20:50:00.001-06:00

A few pieces from Rachel Comey's Spring/Summer 2008 show:

Love these comfortable, simple-and-chic designs. Let's go!

♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥

DRESSES:

The dresses in this collection are have a variety of shapes, many of which are flowy and slightly puffy, often made more figure-skimming with the addition of belts. There are also a smattering of fitted dresses which add a nice counterpoint, yet both feature the belt accent. These options are reminiscent of the dresses in this collection.

1. Banana Republic - Half Moon Back Sheath - $140 - http://tinyurl.com/33dnj2
2. Ann Taylor Loft - Trapunto Sheath - $79 - http://tinyurl.com/29den2
3. Target - Mizrahi Sateen Sheath - $34.99 - http://tinyurl.com/2zxfo4
4. eBay - Banana Republic Tan Silk Dress sz. 12 - http://tinyurl.com/22xlcq
5. La Redoute - Tonarelli Marseille Dress (black is available) - $49.99 - http://tinyurl.com/37om8v
6. La Redoute - Long Linen & Cotton Dress - $16.99 - http://tinyurl.com/2jukf9

♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥

BELTS: Two styles are featured.

First, a solid belt is a key element in this collection. Not too big but not a skinny belt either. It's solid and well-made but not too flashy in color or design. Easy-peasy!

1.Target Xhilaration Vachetta Belt - Brown - $14.99 http://tinyurl.com/2yk6x2
2. eBay auction - Michael Kors Belt - Brown - http://tinyurl.com/26r5xn
3. eBay auction - Banana Republic Belt - Lt. Brown - http://tinyurl.com/2f66p9

♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥

SHOES:

The shoes are mostly strappy neutral heels, which are always in style and easy to find. Love them!

1. Newport News - Strappy Platform Sandal - $25 Sale! - http://tinyurl.com/ywlmmt
2. eBay auction - Enzo Aglioni Tan Ankle Strap Pump sz. 10 - http://tinyurl.com/27b5nf
3. Payless - Lanie Sandal - $10.99 Sale! - http://tinyurl.com/2cb6ww

If you don't love yourself,
how the hell you gonna love somebody else? - RuPaul

Hip Fall '08 Preview from...Payless, Baby!

2008-03-27T20:48:00.000-06:00

OK, I know that those of us north of the equator are pining for spring and summer's warmth to kick in, but I have to share some of the amazingly cute shoes that were recently shown on the runways for Fall 2008 -- from Payless Shoes. Sadly, I'm not that impressed with what was shown for the Lela Rose and Abaete, but the Alice & Olivia collection shows several shoes that rock my socks. I want several pairs right now ... like now, now, not Fall. Hmmm - is there a waitlist?

See them at http://tinyurl.com/2ekvmm

My Double Take: Swinging at Thakoon

2008-03-27T20:31:00.000-06:00

Wheeeeee!

This Thakoon frock is frocking great. Not only is it eye-catching in a sea of black and beige, but it is so swingy comfy and fresh. The hat, belt and shoes are hip and not too matchy-matchy. If I was wearing it, I would probably twirl around and around real fast to watch the skirt flare out like a ballerina princess, and people would probably point and laugh.

Screw those funharmers, anyway...

OK, now it's time to channel the spirit of this flowy ensemble into new interpretations.

______________________________________________________________

HATS: A straw hat with fedora shaping is what I'm looking for here.

1. This little chapeau (the Susanna Fedora, $10.80) from Forever 21 is great. Linky: http://tinyurl.com/2k4wab

♥

DRESSES: Stripes, florals, tie-dye, anything eye-catching and flowy works.

1. eBay find (new): http://tinyurl.com/2dhply

2. eBay find (vintage): http://tinyurl.com/2r389u

3. eBay find (new): http://tinyurl.com/27twqf

♥

BELTS: Looking for a black leather belt with a square buckle in silver.

1. eBay find (new without tags): http://tinyurl.com/2vq8xc

2. eBay find (used): http://tinyurl.com/2gqj6a

♥

SHOES: Strappy black sandals with a heel - there are a gazillion of these to choose from. Since I am sick of hobbling myself after a couple hours in 4-inch heels, I now choose a style both for the look *and* the comfort. Just a sampling:

1. eBay (new): http://tinyurl.com/2mpsu4

2. eBay (new): http://tinyurl.com/3aef5w

3. eBay (new): http://tinyurl.com/2knv6t