Black, White and Patterned All Over

I realize that this post is in direct opposition to my resolution to embrace jewel tones in 2010, but it does uphold the promise to embrace patterns. Black and white remain wardrobe staples in refreshingly chic graphic prints.

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Armani Exchange, Wave Scarf, $38
The Limited, Elongated CZ Tear Earring, $34.50
Charlotte Russe, Abstract Zebra Tank, $18.99
The Limited, A-Line Stripe Skirt, $59.50
Giuseppe Zanotti, Graffiti Pumps, $550
Kenneth Jay Lane, Gold-Plated Studded Bangle, $150 (on sale)
Moyna Handbags, Beaded Clutch, $110
Issa, Printed Jersey Dress, $391 (on sale)

Friday Finds under $50

After a bit of a from "Little Luxuries" posts, I'd like to reinstate a weekly selection of affordable style picks to counteract the ridiculous $500 "steals" in magazines. Without further ado: Five Friday Finds under $50. How's that for alliteration?

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Juicy Couture, Wish Sparrow Necklace, $48
Urban Outfitters, Double Wrap Gold Link Watch, $38
Forever21, Beaded Chiffon Dress, $39.80
The Limited, Asymmetrical Flap Sequin Bag, $24.99 (on sale)
Newport News, Peep-Toe Ankle Boots, $39 (on sale)

And don't forget to enter to win a glitzy little ring from Forever21!

Itty Bitty Giveaway: Forever21 Ring

While browsing Forever21 earlier this week, I came across a domed rhinestone ring similar to the one I wore in Wednesday's post. I just couldn't help myself; I had to pick it up to give away to one of you lovely readers. It's certainly nothing elaborate, but it sure is sparkly. And isn't "sparkly" the best way to kick off 2010?


The fine print:

1. You must be a follower of Style Obsession.
   
2. You must be a resident of the United States.
   
3. Enter by leaving a comment telling me about your favorite piece of jewelry.
4. For another entry, blog or Tweet* about this giveaway and leave a second comment.
   

I'll randomly select a winner next Thursday, January 14, 2010.

*I just started a Twitter account for my blog. You can follow me @style_obsession.

Who Wears Short Shorts?

(I look a little bewildered. But let's, ahem, call it "charming.")

Vintage Blazer (from my mother's closet), Forever21 Blouse, Black Pearl Earrings, Banana Republic Necklace, Banana Republic Ring, Gap Shorts, Gap Tights, Guess Shoes

I'm indecisive when it comes to shorts. but I couldn't help picking up a tweed version from the Gap a couple of weeks ago. For an in-store sale price of $14, I'm willing to experiment.

Headgear

Only the most style-confident of us can wear a hat. The head-topping piece has lost popularity throughout the last century, even though it's the most statement-making accessory one can wear. Nothing draws as much attention to a face than a hat.


I'm especially drawn to vintage hats with exquisite details - and dream of wearing one as the final touch to my cocktail attire. I try them on in every antique store I visit and search for them religiously on eBay. I have yet to purchase one, however; I'm holding out for a vintage Dior hat that I just can't live without. Here are a few vintage beauties that up for auction right now:

Schiaparelli Violet Hat and Christian Dior Turban

Red Velvet Hat and Frederick Nelson Black Hat

If vintage isn't your thing, there are a bevvy of modern versions available:

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Rub & Dub, Velour and Leather Hat, $235
Brunello Cucinelli Hat, Striped Hat, $430
Eugenia Kim, Craig Sequined Straw Fedora, $315
Kate Spade, Marlene Wool Cloche, $125
Corta, Chain Link Fur Fedora in Dark Camel, $251 (on sale)
Yestadt Millinery, Silky Stripes Turban, $348

Do you wear hats? Would you? What would you wear them with?

Pantone Unveils Color of the Year

The design industry's self-identified "color authority" recently unveiled 2010's esteemed color of the year: turquoise. It's a color that "transports us to an exciting, tropical paradise while offering a sense of protection and healing in stressful times," according to Pantone.

Promise of an escape from the snowy tundra in favor of a "tropical paradise" is enough to convince me to opt for ocean hues - even if they're not Pantone's official 2010 color of 15-5519 turquoise.

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

J.Crew, Silk Taffeta Bow Monde Dress, $225
Milly, Paisley-Embroidered Silk Blouse, $325
Ben-Amun, Multi Stones Drop Turquoise Earrings, $95
Temperley London, Mini Agnelli Studded Dress, $1,195

Joan & David, Demille Pump, $220
DV by Dolce Vita, Cairo Flat, $80

Bounkit Jewelry, Oval Turquoise Button Earrings, $275
Kara Ross, Stingray Bracelet, $310
Missoni, Acqua Eau de Toilette Spray, starting at $60

Two Thousand Ten

I'm finally back in Madison after spending a week at my parents' house - with plenty of holiday cheer, and without high-speed Internet. I stared wistfully at the computer screen on Wednesday, not-so-patiently waiting for Gilt's final sale items to download. My efforts were futile, however, when the computer's slow speed let an Elizabeth & James plaid blazer slip away and a Foley + Corinna dress find a home elsewhere.

Needless to say, I'm thrilled to be back in my apartment, catching up on each of your blogs. Google Reader indicates I have 603 entries to read, so forgive me if it takes awhile! I didn't realize how much I'd miss seeing what you're up to - and how much I'd miss my own blog.

And without further ado, the quintessential first post of 2010: New Year's Resolutions.

1. Embrace jewel-tone colors - emerald, sapphire and ruby, oh my! - and playful patterns.
   
2. Read at least one book each month, or 1,000 pages monthly.
3. Shop often. Spend rarely. Focus on "quality over quantity" in terms of both fantastically unique and well-made items. And while I'm at it, put more hard-earned dollars into savings.
   
4. Sweat at least once a week. The workout isn’t fun, but the shower afterward feels amazing!
5. Experiment with new recipes - I don’t get Martha Stewart’s magazine for nothing!
6. Set out on a road trip with my trusty GPS and less-trusty Honda Civic. Destination to be determined.
7. Keep a bottle of champagne chilled in the fridge for impromptu celebrations.
   

photos via Charleston Style Concierge, Chocosho, FitSugar, FoBo, Cuisipro, Weekends in Paradelle, Bigger than Your Head