Mezzo Fashionisto

Experiment in outfitting

2012-01-23T15:27:00.000-08:00

Insert witty commentary I would make if I wasn't exhausted

*Hat,jacket,Skirt-c/o Torrid,Turtleneck-Just My Size,Tights-Jen'sFashionPlus(no longer exists sadly),Boots-Steve Madden

This might actually be too much lace at once,also, this skirt may just be too short for me...ah well.

In other news, taking pictures of yourself with no tripod nor remote is quite difficult. Off to finish more reading!

L-O-V-E

Nik

What Would Dita Do?

2012-01-09T12:42:00.000-08:00

I am a HUGE fan of Dita Von Teese! She is probably the celeb with the closet style to my own (imaginary) style aesthetic...as most of you know I love a good throwback to a more elegant era. I decided for my next "What would ___ do?" post, I couldn't possibly choose anyone else!

I know what you are thinking...how could you think of different looks for someone who never dresses down and basically has the same look? Au contraire mes amies,(or amis...does anyone that identifies as male read this blog?)Dita actually has a few key elements to her style for us to explore. Fortunately, Dita is coming out with a few select pieces of clothing called "Muse" which will debut in Australia first, and subsequently in the UK and US, which will feature sizes up to a size 20.Here she is discussing "real size"(cringe) women:

But until you can grab Dita's line, you might want to keep in mind these things when you are out looking for similar items to Dita's.

1. It's about the total "look".From her signature coiffed raven locks to her crimson lips and pink cheeks, Dita is all about the total "glamour" package from head to toe. Even on her casual days, Dita rocks a red lip,sunglasses, and tidy hair. It's not just about the "retro " thing with her though, she seamlessly blends the glamour from the 40s and 50s with a modern edge. She has created a signature look, this can be applied to any style, find what you love that works for you and makes you comfortable and stick with it. There's nothing wrong with that. I mean...I've never even seen a chip in her "signature" nails. C'mon son.

2. What are pants? It's pretty clear, even though I have seen her in dressy capri pants and a romper, Dita usually has on a dress...I'm talking 99.9999% of the time.

3. Accessorize. Dita usually dons exquisite accessories. From leather opera gloves, to beautiful jewelry, to elegantly crafted hats,to sunglasses, to 6 inch stilettos(frequently custom designed for her by Christian Louboutin!)...Dita never leaves home without some great addition to an outfit.

4.What lies beneath. I know there are those of us that don't agree with any type of shape wear, and I'm not saying that it's necessary, but Dita is an active corset wearer so therefore I would be remiss if I didn't mention that a corset, or generally "fancy underpants"(you know matching underthings) adds to the effect. There are a great deal of wonderful options for the lush ladies as far as lingerie goes,so have a look out there and find something that makes you feel great. I must add though, that Dita's waist has been trained down to about 21/22 inches(She's 5'6" her measurements are 32D-21/22-33...yeah she's really small), her corseted waist is 16 inches,and her corsets are custom made by the infamous Mr. Pearl. If you are thinking of starting waist training, please have a corset custom made by a corsetiere who is trained in tightlacing and can help you on your journey.

Dita doesn't really dress down, well not until Halloween, but she does have "levels" of her look.

There's level 4, or uber fancy/costumed, which we obviously won't be exploring here, she gets most thing custom-made or wears haute couture.

Level 3-Dressy/cocktail

Almost casual

and Dita's version of casual...

Here are the looks I came up with:

All dresses but red from eShakti, red dress from Dorothy Perkins,Shades by Gucci and flats by topshop

pencil skirt from Dorothy Perkins,ful; skirt from Dominoe Dollhouse,tops from Chicstar,shoes by Ralph Lauren

Coats from Evans and chicstar,shoes by Christian Louboutin,dress from ASOS curve,Hat from etsy,Leather opera gloves by Portolono

Shoes by Christian Louboutin,Dresses from ASOS,Pinupgirl clothing,and Stop staring for Torrid

Examples:

Casual Dita

Separates

Dita in a coat(she has an extensive coat collection...especially vintage)

Dressy

Have fun!

L-O-V-E

Nik

What is it with December?

2012-01-01T23:57:00.000-08:00

I always seem to vanish in December...I guess I like to keep my holidays off the internet. I'm in between semesters(almost home, I graduate in August!!!)
Lately I've been enjoying my time off from school...I've been...

Working on my music...

Piling my hair up on top of my head and wearing bandannas... You know I love all things retro...

Wearing this fedora(c/o Torrid) and pretending I'm a 70s rock star/nondescript band member...men are strangely intrigued by this hat...it's weird. Are fedoras man repellents/attractants?

Wearing navy eyeshadow one day...

...and next to nothing the next day...

Cooking and eating...cuz you know it's the holidays...(I made that turkey and mac&cheese btw)

Trying to taking various still life photos and failing miserably...

Listening to these songs too much...

So how about you? I hope you have been enjoying your holiday!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Meaty Topic: Bold

2011-12-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

obligatory pic

I hate to be as cliche as to start with a dictionary definition but I think it is necessary.

BOLD

adjective, -er, -est.

not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possibledanger or rebuff; courageous and daring: a bold hero.

not hesitating to break the rules of propriety; forward;impudent: He apologized for being so bold as to speak to theemperor.

necessitating courage and daring; challenging: a boldadventure.

beyond the usual limits of conventional thought or action;imaginative: Einstein was a bold mathematician. a difficultproblem needing a bold answer.

striking or conspicuous to the eye; flashy; showy: a boldpattern.

"How could you possibly see anything over walls so mammoth in height?" J,an old friend, once asked me. "Walls..."I said, "What are you talking about I have no walls..." To this he replied, "They have surrounded you so completely that they have become an essential part of the person you think you are." Our friendship eventually fell apart, but that conversation has always stuck with me. Most of those memories consist of me wondering why every conversation I had with him felt like a scene in a badly written drama film,but I digress.

Every time someone calls me "bold" I think about that conversation."Bold" is such a strong word. I hear that word and think about Prince or Lady Gaga, those artists have chutzpah, good or bad, they do whatever the hell they want. I don't know if I have the courage to be truly bold yet. I often want to tell those that call me "bold" that I am not that,the one thing I want to do in my life I am too afraid to fully dedicate myself to because I have lost my ability to be vulnerable at the appropriate moments. Those walls can still be too high. I want to tell those people that even though I will do what I want for the most part, from time to time when I see a group of girls laugh when they pass me I automatically assume they are laughing at me. As silly and oddly paranoid as that may seem. I mention this to refer to that first definition, sometimes I can become irrationally fearful of perception, real or imagined. All at once I can feel instantly like that little girl that lived in her head... that lived within the music because she had nowhere else to go. All at once I can no longer feel "bold". I'm not certain if I know how to be "bold" all of the time.

I often wonder if I am not "bold" but more often, recklessly curious. I almost drowned at 15 because I really wanted to see what the deep end of the pool was like, I didn't realize how deep the water was until I couldn't keep myself afloat. I drive down alien streets in unfamiliar places, and I will pass you on a two lane highway at 115 miles an hour...just because I can. Because sometimes, I feel like being reckless. I'm not sure why, I fear that sometimes, I simply want to cause damage without claiming ownership of what I have done. "It was an accident, it wasn't my fault." That would be cowardly and not bold right? Is that the flash the definition mentions? When I put on a miniskirt,a print,or red lipstick... I don't really have any forethought. I do these things because...I can. I want to know what will happen if I do.

At other times, I stare at those walls and think, "I will climb over one of you today, I might cry on the way over...but I'll get over." So I might have cried for half an hour in the parking lot before I went back to class the first day of graduate school, but I eventually went to class. I might have a tear stained notebook, but it is full of lyrics and melodies. I might berate myself for a couple of minutes after listening to playback...but I will sing another take. I might stare at myself in the mirror for an hour(ok so most of that time I'm applying makeup...), but I will leave the house. I'm not sure if that makes me bold, but it doesn't make me a wimp.What walls? I climb over those every day.

Are you bold?What does that mean to you?Let me know in the comments.

L-O-V-E

Nik

I Wish I Was Wearing This Today

2011-12-16T09:58:00.000-08:00

I hope you guys have been great! Finals and last projects for the semester have held me up for the past couple of weeks but I'm back! I've been wanting to start this series for awhile. Unlike a large amount of bloggers, my financial situation isn't the greatest right now...I would love to buy everything I've always wanted and show it to you guys but I can't! So here is the next best thing, this is what I would have worn today if I had the funds! I'm showing you the prices in case you see something you like and want to make a purchase for the holidays! I hope to do these very frequently,tell me if you like them ok?I'm also using different photo editing software and I haven't figured out how to blend properly, these will "get there".

1.Domino Dollhouse Funeral Darling Leather Jacket-$219.99

2.Amandine Knit Sweater in Black(sold out :( )-$140.90

3.Style 369 Black Zip Leggings - $38.82

4.Topshop Manney Black Suede Slipper- $56.00

5.NARS Shanghai Express Lipstick - $24.00

L-O-V-E

Nik

Dancing On My Own

2011-11-23T19:51:00.001-08:00

I am in full tilt cooking mode(pictures to come) but I thought I would quickly post a couple of the things I wore over the past weekend! They were quite casual so I thought I would put them together.

Top -Faded Glory,Jeans-a.n.a,Shoes-Ash

Sweater and Blazer - Vintage,Pants-Asos,Pumps - Mossimo

I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Smokey Top,Glossy Bottom

2011-11-21T00:51:00.000-08:00

My latest beauty obsession, a smokey eye with a flick and loads of mascara on the top only, with hardcore contour,and super glossy lip.

This look can be achieved with a multitude of colors(the top look is different than the bottom).I start with a lighter eye shadow on the lid, followed by a deeper complimentary shade in the crease and a neutral browbone. I follow that up with a thin swipe of liquid liner on the top lash line and loads of mascara. Most of my face routine remains the same(foundation,powder,bronzer,blush) but lately I have been intensifying my contour. I've been using a concealer that is a few shades deeper than my complexion in all of the areas I want to recede on my face, and either blending with a flat brush or my fingers. Next, I further intensify those areas with my usual bronzer.

The top look shows my newest favorite lip combo, Revlon Color Sensationnel lipstick in Coral Crush,Cover Girl Queen collection lipstick in Girly Pink with Hard Candy Plumping Serum Volumizing Lip Gloss in girl Next Door on top. Now I know what you're saying...I don't need a plumping gloss, but I love how plumping glosses make my lips smooth, and decrease the appearance of lines. In the bottom look I am wearing the gloss alone.

In all looks I am wearing Makeup Forever HD Foundation in 173,NARS Bronzer in Casino,Black Radiance Concealer Stick(contour),L'oreal Lineur Intense Liquid Eyeliner,MAC Studio Fix Concealer, and L'oreal Voluminous mascara.

Top look:All shadows from 96 shadow palette(purples)NARS blush in Taos and Benefit Coralista

Bottom look: All shadow from Wet & Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Collection in Comfort Zone,NARS Blush in Lovejoy

Meaty Topic : How to Age Gracefully...or something like that

2011-11-15T16:47:00.001-08:00

Obligatory Pic

I was having a discussion with my best friend about how we see the world differently as we get older. I'm nearing the end of my twenties now and as that is still young in most contexts, in the world of (fashion) blogging I'm actually pretty up there.

It started innocently enough, an extra line here, the appearance of my first grey hair front and center on my hairline...but then things started to get interesting. I started to view people differently(everyone looks like they're twelve to me), hear things differently, feel things as another person would. I started to feel achy in the morning and wished I wasn't a night owl. The promise of drinks and dancing seemed lackluster, margaritas were replaced with wine(well..sometimes...ok I'm lying) and I find that most entertainment does not entertain me.

I often say that I wish I could have started my blog when I was younger. The thought of sharing outfits and beauty tips when I was younger would have been novel and fresh. I wouldn't have been encroaching on the edge of ladylike sensibility as I am right now(I don't know exactly how that happened). Who cares if I'm uncomfortable/it itches/it's painful, I look amazing! Unfortunately, as aforementioned here, baby Nik was not a confident person. The thought of putting a picture of my entire body on the internet would have been terrifying. I was knee deep in "flattering" clothing, "flattering" camera angles and crash diets, why would I want anyone to know what I actually looked like?

I believe if I had started this whole "blog thing" at a younger age; my need for attention,which everyone has a twinge of, would have perhaps manifested itself into something detrimental. I believe I would have pushed myself more and more to "perform" in a way that would have gleaned more attention. How many half-naked pictures have I seen of younger women who want nothing more than to be accepted, and enjoy being viewed as a sexual object simply because they feel as if they are wanted? The internet is sometimes a caring and thoughtful space, but more often times is an extension of our adolescent insecurities...always wanting to feel needed,loved, adored by a "public". The first place that many young people have heard they were attractive was in the confines of the internet walls, with some version of themselves they have dressed up for the web's approval.

Right now I believe "aging gracefully" stems in not only the emotional development(I understand my emotions now,even if I don't always use this logic), but this quiet sense of self I have developed. I have painfully grown to know myself more. I have grown to accept that my place in the world is malleable and dependent on myself. I wish more of my younger sisters knew this. Who we are is dependent on ourselves, other people and their perceptions do not define our character.

So how about you? What are your thoughts on getting older,have you been influenced by this at all? Who were you at 16,18,21,25,28*, or 30+ 40+50+? What things do you know now that you wish you knew then? Let me know in the comments.

*Guess how old I am!

L-O-V-E

Nik

From sea to shining sea

2011-11-12T14:08:00.001-08:00

I headed to a Veteran's day parade today to see my brother and sister march, and it made me think a bit about patriotism.

I was never a big fan of patriotic songs as a kid, I always imagined leaving this country for Europe and living my life a la Josephine Baker. This was until I took the time to sing these songs to war veterans as an adult. It was a beautiful and overwhelming experience to see the faces of people that really understand the songs. They were so appreciative that people were honoring them, to experience that sort of happiness is amazing.

I don't think most people even realize what Veteran's day celebrates in the first place(it was originally the holiday to celebrate the signing of the Armistice that ended WWI, it was signed the 11th hour on 11/11/1918). I feel that it celebrates not only those who gave their lives completely to war, but also those endure the rest of their lives with war as an element of their past. War is so unbelievably heinous, I could not imagine what it would have been like to experience it first hand. Could you imagine the trauma that you would face after witnessing people die, all around you? Then subsequently to return home to a possible lack of employment,lack of understanding,and a generalized lack of respect for your journey. I don't agree with the concept of war, but I would never disrespect the people that fought for the country they believed in.

I will admit sometimes I forget,I forget what my ancestors went through just so I can inhale the air in this country. This entire country was built with on the backs of my ancestors, and they experienced things that I will never experience. It wasn't always voluntary, but their blood runs through the soil of this country as does the blood of many others, so I do what I can to honor them. The ancestors that fought in the wars, the ancestors that fought only to live, and the ancestors that fought for everyone's right to simply live. I don't know if I'm always "patriotic", but I'm always respectful of what it is to be a human being.

So now I'll hop down off my soapbox. I hope you had a great Veteran's Day!

Denim shirt-Lee,Sweater-Mossimo,Velvet Trousers-Talbots,Pins and crystal bracelet-vintage,Other breacelets from random stores,Cap-toe flats-Walmart(yes, really)

L-O-V-E

Nik

It's not Easy Being Green

2011-11-10T18:53:00.001-08:00

I like frogs...what can I say?

Well...not really, but I like to take silly pictures with inanimate objects.However, Kermit has a permanent place in my heart.

Blazer-Vintage,Sweater-Just my size,Jeans-Source of Wisdom via Torrid,Bracelets-Random cheap stores,Frog belongs to my sister.Nails Essie-Mesmerize.Flick and Lip : NARS Blush in Desire,NYC Fashion Avenue Fuchsia lipgloss and Black Radiance Purple Passion also seen here .

Hope you're having a wonderful week!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Flick and lip

2011-11-09T18:01:00.000-08:00

My everyday face lately? A little flicked liner and a bright lip.

1.Sephora Powder foundation in D40,Milani Liquif'eye in Black,L'oreal Voluminous Mascara,Black Radiance Blush in Warm Berry,NARS Bronzer in Casino,Black Radiance Lipstick in El Dorado Red and Revlon Colorburst Gloss in Fire
2. Normal Foundation and Bronzer + NARS Blush in Torrid,Wet &Wild Color Icon palette in "Comfort Zone" gold eye-shadow(Left column 2nd from top)Wet & Wild Gel eyeliner in Black,L'oreal Voluminous False Lashes in Black,MAC Studio finish Concealer in NC44, Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Coral Crush

I'm really loving this coral lipstick! I have never bought a coral before this one, I really like it!It's tons brighter in person, it looks almost neon in the tube.

L-O-V-E

Nik

Minds Without Fear

2011-11-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Imogen Heap is an absolutely genius artist(it's one of my dreams to work with her).On her new album she is creating each song as a collaboration of minds(she's working on the fifth song now). The Dewarists is a new web series that is part travelogue and part music documentary. Two of the most important aspects of my life are music and travel, so this is a dream to me. I would love an opportunity to be involved with something similar. This show is a great watch! So if your most watched networks are the Travel channel and MTV(2, MTV hasn't played music in years lol) like me,then you'll enjoy this. If you just want to hear Immi's new song, a jump link appears at about 18 seconds in.Enjoy!

L-O-V-E

Nik

In Case You Missed It: Ford Models Fall 2011 Diversity Promo

2011-11-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

If you are a long time reader of Mezzo Fashionisto, you are aware that a huge point of interest with this blog is the promotion of plus modeling and models of color. I was so excited when I read about Ford Models Promo shoot for Fall 2011 that was going to feature several of the models on the Ford+ roster!

You don't want to know how many times I watched this video...

Well the promo is out!

Elora Perez(Ford +)

Tonya Pttman(Ford +)

Amber Tolliver(Ford +)

Sabina Karlsson(Ford +)

Marquita Pring (Ford +)

Aren't they STUNNING?! All photos are by Michael Schwartz. View the rest of the slideshow here.

What do you think?

L-O-V-E

Nik

This is HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T22:56:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a ghoulishly delightful Halloween!

Because I like a ton of irony in my life, I decided to dress up as Prince's dejected protegee!

All clothing is vintage/super old and can't remember except for my tights which are Just My Size and my shoes which are Mossimo

There's 30 thousand layers of makeup on my face so I can't remember it all, but Wet & Wild's 8 shadow palettes + NYX eye primer= AMAZING.

What I really want: Warm Boots

2011-10-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

See that face? That is the face of cold!

Last Friday I went to a football game out of town,my brother is in band and my sister is in dance team so I went to see them perform. I thought I was prepared for the weather,Jacket,Scarf,beanie,sneakers,jeans. What I was not prepared for was the fact that it ended up being below 40 degrees and my feet have never been so cold! My toes and the bottom of my feet went COMPLETELY NUMB. I left feeling like I was walking on nothing, not "walking of air" I just couldn't feel anything.

So now I am on the hunt for boots that actually keep my feet warm and are comfortable. While my natural inclination is to go for the cutest boots, sometimes that's not all that matters when you're sitting outside in the cold for 3+hours.

1.Doc Martens,classic, I already have an old burgundy pair of these and I thought maybe these purple ones would be cute...something different. My favorite color is actually purple, but I own hardly any purple items of clothing.

2. Flat knee high boots,cute and comfy, although I wish they came in a darker color,you know how I am a sucker for black!

3. Motorcycle-style, I feel like these are a lot like me, I'm more into the rock and roll look, I wish they were black also though!

4. EMU Boots,these Emu boots are made from sheepskin , so they should probably keep my feet warm.Even though I wouldn't normally wear boots like this, everyone else at the game looked nice and warm in their boots just like these...meanwhile I'm freezing in the name of kicks. Not ok! I could make it work.

So what do you think? Let me know in the comments!

L-O-V-E

Nik

**This blog was done in partnership with Bank Fashion UK,however, all views within this blog are my own and I only use blog partners that are beneficial to my readers**

How to be lovely

2011-10-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

NYC Liquid Lipshine in Fashion Ave Fuchsia with a bit of Black Radiance El Dorado Red,Urban Decay Smog eyeshadow,Urban Decay Zero eyeliner,Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black,NARS Lovejoy blush and Casino Bronzer,Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse Foundation in Honey Beige,MAC Studio Fix concealer in NC45, and Sephora Powder foundation in D40

Did you ever want to reinvent yourself? Give yourself a makeover? Become the creation of your own imagination?

Why?

When I was a little girl, I always had an ideal life in mind that I thought I would be living at this particular age. I dreamt of being thin, impossibly beautiful,and I would spend my days singing and getting paid to do that,living in Paris a la Josephine. I wanted to become the opposite of what I thought I was. Of course there are cultural differences in a person’s standard of beauty, and a great deal of this is created through one’s environment and conditioning during crucial stages in one’s development.These were the people I thought of as beautiful as a child:

All of these women look different but then again, they don't do they? They could be distant cousins,even Liz, with her dark features. I carried these images ingrained on my psyche, and told myself when I grew up I was going to look like "that", my ideal. A great deal of my insecurities growing up were due to the fact that I didn't look like my ideal. So I tried to mold myself into this.

You don't want to know how much makeup,lighting, and photoshop went into this do you?

Clinging to makeup tricks, contouring and perfecting,trying my hardest to fit into my "ideal", but no matter how hard I tried, I was always Nik, not Lena or Vanity or Phyllis, I was just "me", and I was incredibly disappointed in me. These thoughts were exacerbated by that fact that, as I grew up, my "ideal" was further reinforced:

The older I became, the more I began to question this "ideal". Why did I believe this "look" was the epitome of beauty and what was I willing to do to become this? I had become to think of myself as a constant project, the way other people think of achieving their dreams of becoming a politician or a teacher, I thought of my image as a goal that had ordered steps to be followed. First would be the dramatic weight loss, then would come the nose job,and whatever other plastic surgery I needed to look "better". Next the makeup and the wardrobe. I could manufacture beautiful even if I wasn't blessed with it.

This manner of thinking continued throughout college, but along the way something changed. I got involved with something where I didn't feel like my looks mattered more than my talent ,where I could become a character and the character's look mattered more than my own. Even growing up performing theater I was felt inefficient, like I wasn't physically enough. In opera I felt like I was enough. I took on this new identity, I was an opera singer, I was a mezzo. People started telling me I should model, I started believing in my own physicality. My ideal started to change. I stopped ignoring compliments and started to accept and internalize them. I didn't have to look like "them" because I wasn't like them, I was "the other". Maybe "the other" could be "the ideal".

I'm not entirely cured, I still like big hair and a pile of makeup, but I'm still healing. Sometimes I leave the house with barely any makeup, I don't enjoy wearing my glasses but I will. I recently went to one of the events for my high school reunion, and my classmates' reaction was one I didn't expect. Some people didn't recognize me. People said that I changed dramatically, and that I was so "beautiful" now. It made me wonder how I had been perceived before. What were they seeing? Had I changed that much? Was I that unattractive before? Instead of making me feel better about myself it bothered me, I really didn't know how to feel. I wondered had I really changed? Was I still insecure and hiding behind a fake facade of confidence to make it from day to day? I started to think about this space. Would I blog if my readers found me unattractive? Would I even have readers? I've spoken about this before a bit,the influence of beauty on one's perception. I started to long for my ideal again, what would my life be like if I actually had attained my ideal? Would life be easier? Would I have found the success I originally wanted? Then I realized how insane the whole thing made me, and how ridiculous it was!

The time I spent pondering about the lines under my eyes,the chip in my tooth, or the degree of crookedness in my nose was completely irrelevant to my life's goals as a whole. Why did I care that I did or didn't fit into an ideal made up by an arbitrary group of people that made an impression on my young psyche? I have to actively manage my mind, it is so simple to fall into the same pitfalls along your journey to self confidence that were present at the start of your journey. I'm not going to go into to cliched examples of ways to build your self-confidence, because none of those matter. This concept is mastered by having an intense dialogue(or 15) with yourself. By owning what is negative about yourself and positive.

So I will use this post to ask my readers some questions, to help someone who is struggling with the little insecurities that still linger around. Take some time to think about what you have already achieved in your life, what have you done? Then, think about what you still want to do, what goals do you want to achieve in life? Will the thing you are insecure about truly inhibit those goals? Why or why not? Can you separate rational thoughts from the negative ones? Are you being truly realistic or pessimistic?(That is a big one for me.) Are you willing to actively redirect your thinking to the positive?

All of those women I posted before look alike because they were manufactured that way. Some of them endured painful processes to get that way, and some of them will never be happy with who they are because they created a new person for the public. Every minute I would have tried to look like them was a minute they would try to look better than before. Where is the satisfaction in that? Rita and Marilyn were just as manufactured as Kim K and Megan Fox. Yes they had plastic surgery and sought out an ideal,(for Marilyn it was Jean Harlow) and manufactured what they thought the public wanted. Did they ever get what they wanted?

At the end of the day, it wouldn't matter to the children I will eventually help whether I look like Beyonce or not. The person who will be influenced by my music won't care if the words that helped them came from someone who looked like Lena Horne, and truthfully, I never looked to Lena for vocal pointers anyway(even though she was a fine singer). I read the work of great writers I have never seen, so why do I care what someone thinks when they see me? As long as you honestly see me, I could care less about how you perceive me. I am who I instinctively and uniquely am. Do you have the courage to be who you absolutely are? I hope so. This is not to say if there is something about yourself you want to change you shouldn't. Everyone should do what makes them feel better. However, if that change is detrimental to who you are in essence, then why bother? Only do things that will truly please you and help you developmentally. Forget the "ideal", I am the ideal Nik. Please be your own ideal, you don't need to change to be the best you that you can be.

L-O-V-E

Nik

P.S.

Well look another film about the girl who gets made over to become a "beautiful" confident woman...who happens to model. I still love it though.

Weekend at a glance

2011-10-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

NANANANANANANANANA...

SISTAHHHHSSS

I really like Perrier...I have a thing for fizzy water..reminds me of my trips to Austria

I'm always seeing these shots on blogs with stacks of fashion books or magazines, and while I have stacks of those too...most of my books stacks consist of these...since they're not getting much use now.

My weekend consisted of family and stadium after stadium...how was yours?

Catch you on the flipside!

L-O-V-E

NIK

(Almost) All Black Everything

2011-10-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Top-Caren Sport,Blazer-Vintage,Pants-City Chic,Heels-Hussein Chalayan,Bracelet -vintage,Scarf-From BFF,Sunglasses-Random Store(lol)

Hope you guys have a great week!There will be more updates!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Happy Birthday Mezzo Fashionisto!

2011-10-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

It's my blog's two year anniversary today, and I really can't believe it's been around this long. My camera situation is supposed to be straightened out this week, so look forward to updates, including 2 new mixtapes,and a makeup tutorial.

Some looks from the past year:

See this post here

On the face:

See this post here

Expect more posts this week! School has taken over my life again, sorry for the lack of updates! I have the greatest readers of all time! You guys do more for me than you will ever know!

L-O-V-E

Nik

I'm not bitter...

2011-09-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

Yes I am. There is this little nagging creature called invidiousness that has been punching me in the stomach lately that I am choosing not to ignore anymore.

Lately I have been so envious of other people it has made me literally sick to my stomach. The Bible says: "A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot"(Proverbs 14:30). In other words, this is a human sickness ,no one is really immune to it.

I keep hearing great news about the lives of others, and while I am genuinely happy and excited for their opportunities, I can't help but feel like a failure. The worst part about it all is that I am aware that I shouldn't feel this way and that whatever is meant for me will happen. I cannot become envious of people accomplishing their dreams simply because I have not accomplished mine yet. And so, my negativity is compounded, I feel wretched for feeling envious,the envy within itself makes me sick. It's a destructive cycle. Some people can use envy as a motivator to achieve more, but I already have a perfectionist streak and envy does not revive my dormant ambition.

I know where this stems from, I think sometimes as we grow as people some of our negative traits may seem to change,but they instead become displaced. My insecurity about my body has made its way into insecurity about my career(or lack thereof). I am at a point in my life where I know what I want, but on the other hand I don't. I'm lost,and lack ambition and direction. My frustration with my current situation has manifested itself in the way of envy towards people who "have it together". I want what everyone wants I suppose to be successful,comfortable,happy...but that is not the way my life has worked out to this point. I also feel like I'm not sure of how I envision my future.

So now I'm making a conscious decision to talk about these feelings here in the hopes that I will not feel this way again. I have to remind myself that even though the past few years have been rough, it will not last forever. To remind myself that I am special and my path to glory is a special path. I will not seek to become complete through the outside world, I will reflect and improve internally. I am bitter, but I will not remain bitter. Bitterness feeds on envy, insecurity and frustration. I find it is important to acknowledge the negative attributes in your life and confront them in order to move on. Even though it may be normal to feel envy from time to time,I do not want it to become a pattern in my life.

Have any of you ever struggled with this? How did it manifest itself in your life? How did you get over it?
Let me know in the comments.

L-O-V-E

Nik

Posing for blogging

2011-08-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Well guess what, I had a camera accident and broke the slider on my camera so I can only take video for the time being...but I took this as an opportunity to do an experiment for an email question I get every now and then. How do I pose for blog photos?

Jeans a.n.a.,Top borrowed from BFF,Shoes-Marc Jacobs,Lipstick-Black Radiance- Eldorado Red,sunglasses-a.n.a

This isn't the best outfit for these purposes, I would usually wear this with a blazer...but we've had triple digit temperatures every.single.day.in.August here...so yeah. When I pose for blogging, it is a completely different thing than posing for modeling,however there are similar concepts. I can show you better than I can tell you.

End of summer vlog from TheFlyestMezzo on Vimeo.

Here are a few stills from the video and some tips on posing.

FIND THE LIGHT

This cannot be reiterated enough. Bad lighting makes a bad photo. The best time of day to take a photo is called the "golden hour" or "magic hour". There is even a golden hour calculator that will tell you the best time of day to take pictures outside. Since this is not a professional photo-shoot, you do not have the option of a reflector or additional artificial lighting sources, so use the best lighting there is...the sun.

Click me

Be experimental
The first thing I do is "warm-up". I might dance around and turn in different positions and see what happens. Don't automatically look at those photos right after you take them and delete them. Sometimes these photos are gems,and you cannot see that until you get the RAW image or JPEG on a larger screen. When modeling for a client, this is usually what you want to do more of if the job calls for it. There is nothing more boring than 30 frames of the same facial expression and pose.

Go for what you know
Even though I am obviously being incredibly silly most of the time, the point is to find a pose you are comfortable in, then work different small changes on the same pose. The only way to find a pose that you enjoy is to get in a full length mirror and experiment. Obviously since this outfit without a jacket(for structure) is rather loose(I know I kind of look pregnant lol), I choose a casual comfortable pose of standing with my hands in my pockets. I use this pose while walking, facing different angles,and displacing my weight from side to side or back to front. I might take one hand out of my pocket and lean to one side or the other.

Know the angle of the lens

I notice most street style photographers aim their lens low, in order to capture an entire outfit at a more even angle than eye level. However, I hate a low lens. I like my lens around my chest to eye area,and sometimes above my eye level. Those levels produce the most flattering shots for me. The only way to learn how to angle your body to the angle of the lens is to practice with a friend. Also keep in mind that a DSLR lens will not only produce better quality photos, but will also capture more light and space in a location. The same angle in different lenses look completely different. Point and shoot lenses tend to distort the face and body more readily.

Location,location

So even though there are blue trashcans behind me, notice that there is so great scenery in the center and the trashcans can be easily cropped out. Know your space within a location. Notice how I didn't move too far to the left or right, that's because I was aware of the limited space and the space my body took up within that space. I also didn't want to get my shoes in the dirt. If you have ever been on stage,it is just like blocking. You determine the best space to be placed in for your audience's attention, in this case, the audience is the camera.

These are just a few tips to get you started. Let me know in the comments any tips you have for posing for your blog!The August mixtape will be up later tonight!

L-O-V-E

Nik

the song in the video is "Still" by Trumaine Lamar

Nik's finds:Purple Blazer

2011-08-17T22:38:00.000-07:00

A ton of people have asked me about the purple blazer I wore in my color block look, unfortunately that blazer was custom made by my grandmother. Lucky for those readers, i have an unhealthy obsession with Dorothy Perkins and found a purple blazer! Dorothy Perkins carries up to UK size 22, which I wear. Always go by size charts ladies, I wear a US 20 which is supposed to be too big for a UK 22 but they always fit me.

Clicky!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Nik's Drugstore Picks:Golden Girl

2011-08-15T16:55:00.000-07:00

As you know, I'm always on the hunt for inexpensive but great makeup products. I found a new love so I thought I would give you a heads up!I've been looking for an inexpensive golden highlighter for the tops of my cheekbones and I think I've finally found it.

This is N.Y.C.'s mosaic face powder and it is beautiful as a highlight or a shimmery shadow. It has been HOT(over 40 days in the triple digits) in Texas so I never feel like wearing foundation. To compensate, I've been wearing a ton of bronzer and highlighter. I already loved N.Y.C.'s bronzer so when I spotted this mosaic powder at CVS I decided to give it a go.

I put way too much of it on in hopes that it would show up on camera,if you are around my complexion,try it out.

On the face:

NYC Mosaic powder in Bronze Bliss

NYC Bronzer in Terracotta Tan

NARS blush in Desire

Revlon lipstick in Mauve(photographs lighter than it is)

L'oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black

L-O-V-E

Nik

*All products were purchased by myself*

I'm into my own jeans...

2011-08-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

I am an avid lover of denim, if you can't tell by my frequent posts wearing jeans. When I was contacted to take a look at a website for plus size ladies jeans that I hadn't seen before I was a bit apprehensive. I get constant emails from readers asking me where they can find jeans to fit their petite and lush frame. Since I am a tall gal(I'm 5'9") I never really paid attention to denim with shorter inseams.

So I took a look at Marisota's denim shop and was surprisingly impressed by the selection of various sizes and inseams available.

They have inseams starting at 27 inches! My bff is only 5'4' and a lush lady so I'm excited that there is a website out there that provides denim for much smaller inseams than my own. Have any of you ever ordered from this denim shop? What do you think?Should I get a pair? Let me know in the comments!

L-O-V-E

Nik

*Disclaimer*This is a post done in partnership with marisota.com, however my opinions as always are honest, and I only accept partnerships beneficial to my readers as well as myself.

What Would Karla Do?

2011-08-10T23:52:00.000-07:00

Karla's Closet is my favorite fashion blog.Period. I don't really have much to say besides that. It was the first fashion blog I ever took an interest in! Karla's style is so unique and beautiful. I decided to do a breakdown and possible looks if Miss Deras was a lush lady.

The Karla style guidelines:

1.Vintage(tailored) dress + great heels+minimal but distinctive jewelry=awesome

2. When you find a look that works, try it in different ways.

3.Layers...layers. Play on the structure of the suit.

4.A great haircut and sunglasses can make an outfit

5.Shoes should be unique, and preferably with ankle straps/detail.

6.Don't be afraid of the monkey-wrench, keep them guessing...don't become predictable.

What Would Karla Do?

The simple/modern dress Karla

What would Karla Do? #One by operachick319 featuring platform shoes

Dorothy Perkins sun dress
£40 - dorothyperkins.com

Giuseppe Zanotti platform shoes
$695 - couture.zappos.com

Lancel printed tote bag
€690 - luisaviaroma.com

Jennifer Meyer diamond stud earrings
$675 - barneys.com

Plastic sunglasses
$8 - warehouse.co.uk

The fancy dress Karla

What Would Karla Do? #Two by operachick319 featuring mini dresses

Mini dress
$100 - pacificplex.com

Giuseppe Zanotti round toe platform pumps
$695 - barneys.com

American Apparel pouch handbag
$50 - americanapparel.net

Lola Rose sterling silver jewelry
£125 - liberty.co.uk

Kaiser Background clear stamp Script
3.99 AUD - scrapbookmegastore.com.au

Harriet Worsley 'The White Dress: Fashion Inspiration for Brides' Book...
$40 - nordstrom.com

Button-down and bottom Karla

What Would Karla Do? #Three by operachick319 featuring clutch handbags

Plus size top
$30 - jessicalondon.com

Dorothy Perkins striped skirt
£12 - dorothyperkins.com

Giuseppe Zanotti high heel pumps
$850 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Windsmoor clutch handbag
£29 - houseoffraser.co.uk

Diamond jewelry
$59 - ice.com

Be The Change You Wish To See | Wall Decals
$30 - tradingphrases.com

Denim Karla

What Would Karla Do? #4 by operachick319 featuring a studded leather handbag

Sequin top
$35 - lanebryant.com

Skinny leg jeans
$32 - alloy.com

Giuseppe Zanotti platform shoes
€491 - luisaviaroma.com

Yves Saint Laurent studded leather handbag
$695 - ssense.com

Layers Karla

What Would Karla Do? #Five by operachick319 featuring wooden heel shoes

Old Navy vneck t shirt
$17 - oldnavy.gap.com

Paul Smith crewneck t shirt
£45 - paulsmith.co.uk

Cropped jacket
$40 - onestopplus.com

ASOS plus size skirt
$112 - asos.com

Chloé wooden heel shoes
€270 - luisaviaroma.com

Welikefashion.com Tee Destress
€40 - welikefashion.com

Unique Karla

What Would Karla Do?#Six by operachick319 featuring reversible pants

Long robe
$45 - hipsandcurves.com

ASOS reversible pants
$69 - asos.com

Aso
$112 - asos.com

Platform sandals
$156 - topshop.com

*Also be sure the clothing fits perfectly, Karla gets her clothing tailored quite a bit, and she will usually emphasize her waist and the femininity of her figure. Also, pay attention to the little details in your pieces if you want to replicate this look. Have fun!

More of my favorite looks...

Karla's actual closet!

L-O-V-E

NIK

I ♥ Richard Avedon

2011-08-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

I've been planning to feature more of my favorite photographers here. One of the first photographers I ever fell in love with was Richard Avedon.One of the photos is NSFW. Read more about Richard's work here.Enjoy!

Little Dragon-Ritual Union

2011-07-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me well knows that one of my favorite bands is Sweden's Little Dragon. Their third album Ritual Union just came out and I LOVE IT.

This is just a post in hopes that those of my readers who are seeking new music to listen to check out this album!If you are new to Little Dragon, I say listen to the first two albums as well. Their self-titled debut is one of my favorite albums of all time, it never left my car from 2007 to 2009. This latest album is a great mix of the "sounds" of the first two albums. Honestly, it's always sort of weird when a band you've been into for so long starts down the "blowing up" path(M.I.A. and Imogen Heap anyone?), but I am so happy for whatever success Little Dragon continues to experience in the future.

My favorite songs:
"Shuffle a Dream"

"Crystalfilm"

"Precious"

"Summertearz"

They also just released a video for another one of my favorites from the new album"When I Go Out""

Also, for those fans that haven't kept up with the Little Dragon collabs(besides the Gorillaz)...here are some for you:

Also rumor has it that Big Boi is working with them on some music! Exciting!!

Enjoy!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Purple Passion

2011-06-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick tutorial for you! Don't forget about the BLOG SALE! There's plenty of stuff left and some things are already gone!I might add a few more things!

L-O-V-E

Nik

What I'm up to...

2011-06-05T00:34:00.001-07:00

America,keep your children FREE

2011-06-04T15:46:00.000-07:00

So for Memorial Day weekend one of my BFF's came to visit from Minnesota! It was a great weekend and we had tons of fun! I didn't wear the most exciting outfits but,I had a great time!

Above I'm wearing a vintage blazer and a Danskin tee

I should really stop wearing this jacket but I can't help it!I would wear it every day if I could!

Jacket F21,Top-Borrowed from BFF,Jeans courtesy of City Chic,Flats-Faded Glory,Lipstick-Milani Pink Hip

Hope your weekend was awesome!

L-O-V-E

Nik

The day of birth and your gift...

2011-05-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

I started preparing this post and then the news broke that Osama Bin Landen was dead. I'm still in shock so I can't make a comment but...wow man. And that's not a happy wow or a sad wow just wow. Anyway,my birthday was yesterday(April 30)and while I had to finish a manuscript, I still managed to go out for a little fun afterward...but my birthday is not the real reason for this post.

Dress-Dorothy Perkins,Shoes-Ash

See you soon!

L-O-V-E

Nik

What Would Kate Do?

2011-04-19T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hey there readers! I haven't vanished I'm still here! This month's inspirational post is dedicated to Kate Lanphear. When I first spotted Kate a few years ago on street style blogs, I fell in love with her edgy,androgynous style. If you look back, some of my first posts on this blog are dedicated to her styling abilities and to her general awesome air of confidence.

Kate is currently the style director for Elle USA, and started her fashion career in Australia. Since I adore her style, I am always wondering what Kate would wear if she was a lush lady.

Things to keep in mind if you want to dress like Kate:

Your hair is as much a part of your look as anything else.

Black and white,and any variation of this such as grey. Occasionally a color might creep in, but not often.

Rock and roll is here to stay,rock t-shirts and spiked bracelets are your friends

The more bracelets the merrier.

I came up with four main Kate styles.

Casual Kate

What Would Kate Do? Casual Kate by Operachick319 featuring a v neck cardigan

Raglan tee
$25 - alloy.com

V neck cardigan
$15 - alloy.com

Black coat
evans.co.uk

Dorothy Perkins denim skinny jeans
18 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Alexander Wang high heels
$247 - oaknyc.com

Pamela Love tribal bracelet
$195 - barneys.com

Pamela Love sterling silver bangle
$645 - net-a-porter.com

Spike bracelet
$65 - farfetch.com

Pamela Love sterling silver jewelry
655 GBP - brownsfashion.com

Tom ford sunglass
239 GBP - matchesfashion.com

Dressy Kate

What Would Kate Do? Dressy Kate by Operachick319 featuring tribal jewelry

Calvin Klein Jeans Plus dolman sleeve top
$56 - zappos.com

Plus size leather skirt
$41 - bloomingdales.com

Gianmarco Lorenzi stiletto boot
$1,078 - farfetch.com

Maison Martin Margiela bracelet
560 EUR - colette.fr

MNG by Mango ring
$16 - jcpenney.com

Stella McCartney buckle bracelet
$445 - shopsavannahs.com

Chain jewelry
$645 - dannijo.com

Gold plated bracelet
$65 - farfetch.com

Pamela Love tribal jewelry
$254 - tenover6.com

Rachel gold tone jewelry
$50 - macys.com

Made Her Think sterling silver jewelry
215 GBP - brownsfashion.com

Cool Coat Kate

What Would Kate Do? Cool Coat Kate by Operachick319 featuring plus size sweaters

Calvin Klein Jeans Plus plus size sweater
$64 - zappos.com

Windsmoor black jacket
99 GBP - debenhams.com

Dorothy Perkins black legging
14 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Friis Company boot
218 EUR - welikefashion.com

Ann Demeulemeester leather bracelet
$175 - thecorner.com

Erickson Beamon gold plated bangle
520 GBP - net-a-porter.com

Avalaya black cross necklace
11 GBP - avalaya.com

Silver bangle
zentosa.com

Dorothy Perkins black belt
12 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Suited Kate

What Would Kate Do? Suited Kate by Operachick319 featuring stamped jewelry

Plus size top
newlook.com

Dorothy Perkins black blazer
41 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Ankle length pants
$40 - avenue.com

Azzedine Alaia high heel sandal
$1,123 - shopsavannahs.com

Comme des Garcons leather bag
$135 - lagarconne.com

ASOS skull jewelry
10 GBP - asos.com

Holly Fulton wood bangle
235 GBP - brownsfashion.com

Alexander McQueen stamped jewelry
$924 - theoutnet.com

Dominic Jones white gold jewelry
$650 - net-a-porter.com

Fallon spike bracelet
$600 - charmandchain.com

L-O-V-E

Nik

Swoon

2011-03-31T17:22:00.000-07:00

I hope you all have had a great week so far! I had been wanting some skinny cargo pants, and I was excited to receive this pair from City Chic. I'm sure you are all aware that they have a US site now, but the original Australian site offers international shipping and a different selection. Just thought I would put that out there.

Cargo pants-courtesy of City Chic,Top-Blue Diamond Plus,Grey leather Jacket-Target,Pumps-Hussein Chalayan,Scarf-Vintage

So what have you all been up to? I haven't been feeling so hot, but I am on the hunt for a summer job and trying to finish up the ridiculous amount of projects I have left this semester. I have also been working on making my own music, and I will update you soon on my progress. Lately I've been feeling sort of down, I'm trying to keep a positive outlook but my life is not where I want it to be at the moment. I know I go through this a lot, just hang with me...you know I have to be as honest as I can here!

L-O-V-E

Nik

P.S.:

Well Striped,Madam...

2011-03-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

Kind of a boring outfit day, I went to my brother's band concert and wanted to keep it simple! I've been doing this thing with scarves lately where I tie a bow in the front of the "headband" instead of the back. I like it but I honestly feel a bit long in the tooth to be rocking it. It is also hard to get good pictures of it!

Blazer-Vintage,Top-old H&M,Jeans-a.n.a,Flats-St. Johns Bay,Scarf-vintage

Even though I like the Revlon "fire" lipgloss on it's own, how vibrant does it look against my Black Radiance El Dorado Red lipstick? Bananas right? I felt like a fire truck drove across my mouth...I love it.

I just want to repeat something to my readers...please don't cave into to your fear. It makes me sad to think that people are forgoing behaving the way they want to simply because they are scared of what others might think. Wear color if you want to! Put on the red lipstick! I promise you that happiness infrequently comes to those who are not true to themselves.

L-O-V-E

Nik

P.S.-I am featured on Evan's Fashion Fix! Please go "like" and comment the post if you feel up to it. I would sincerely appreciate it!Also, if you appreciate this blog,please comment on Evan's FB page also. Let our fellow lush women know it is OKAY to be unique!

If I ever teach the itty bitty ones...this is what my class will sound like

2011-03-25T21:07:00.001-07:00

OMG OMG OMG I LOVE LITTLE DRAGON

RIP LIZ

2011-03-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

People want to know why I love old Hollywood so much. Elizabeth Taylor is a great example of why. Liz just had "it". You know...that "x" factor people always talk about which few people have. Even though most of the methods were atrocious, old Hollywood studios knew what it took to make a real star. Something rarefied that is truly unattainable for most of the population.

What do we have now? Reality stars? Give me a break. To call someone from a reality show a star is an insult to the beautiful men and women of yesteryear who had enormous talent that could not be contained. Now all of the real talented individuals are in the university music and theater programs playing the game trying to get a part, or playing the same game trying to get their Equity card,or wearing themselves out in a chorus...or like me stuck back in their hometowns because their career has left them almost penniless and worn out...trying to make it somewhere.

Liz was a star almost since birth. She was born with double rows of eyelashes, and those amazing blue-violet eyes and dark hair.There are few people that are glamorous and beautiful until the end, and Liz was one of those people. I cannot believe I am speaking about her in the past tense.

8 marriages,4 children,a myriad of health problems...but also 2(pre-lifetime achievement) Academy Awards, multiple Golden Globes,Baftas...Elizabeth not only had the controversy but she had the talent to back it all up. Suffice it to say she was one of my heroines. I love you Dame Elizabeth. I will miss you.

Dripping in diamonds and fur until the end! RIP Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor(February 27, 1932 – March 23, 2011)

I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them.-Elizabeth Taylor

What Would Joan Do?

2011-03-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

I know many a fashion blogger has cited Carrie from Sex and the City as their fashion inspiration, and while I love her style, another television character's wardrobe always stole my heart. I love Joan Carol Clayton from the gone(but not forgotten) television series "Girlfriends".

Played by Tracee Ellis Ross(who has FANTASTIC personal style),Joan's style was relatable, seventies influenced, earthy, and so darn STYLISH I couldn't wait to see what she would wear next.

Some keys to Joan's style:
1.Joan loved a dress, and if it was a vibrant print, it was even better.

2.No skirts above the knee, and when there is a skirt, make it pencil.

3.Louboutins are a girl's best friend.

4.Wide leg jeans(or pants) are the best, but for a change try straight leg or cuffed crops.

5.There is nothing wrong with sweats or comfy clothing.

6.Hair is one of the greatest accessories.

Joan started off the series as a corporate lawyer, so the majority of the first seasons outfits were suitable for the office, but after season 5, she became the owner of her own restaurant, and her style changed a bit. so I started thinking, if Joan was a plus size woman, what would she wear? I came down with the four most used Joan "looks".

Dressy Joan

WWJD Floral by Operachick319 featuring a blue cotton dress

Dorothy Perkins blue cotton dress
40 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Christian Louboutin black pump shoes
stylespot.com

Yves Saint Laurent logo handbag
$475 - ysl.com

Yellow gold earring

$140 - amazon.com

Casual Joan

WWJD #2 by Operachick319 featuring leather clutches

ASOS camisole top
$45 - asos.com

Levi's flared leg jeans
$35 - macys.com

Christian Louboutin peep toe heels
$595 - net-a-porter.com

American Apparel leather clutch

$34 - americanapparel.net

Working Woman Joan

WWJD #3 by Operachick319 featuring platform high heels

ASOS one shoulder top
$25 - asos.com

View all - New In - evans
evans.co.uk

Christian Louboutin platform high heels
661 GBP - net-a-porter.com

Marc Jacobs patent leather handbag
$750 - net-a-porter.com

Olivia Collings Antique Jewelry locket necklace
$4,675 - barneys.com

Bottega Veneta cameo ring
$2,480 - net-a-porter.com

Diamond earring
$1,350 - maxandchloe.com

Boho Joan

WWJD #4 by Operachick319 featuring feather earrings

Dorothy Perkins dress
30 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

KORS Michael Kors michael kors shoes
$175 - shoes.com

Reed Krakoff leather handbag
$690 - net-a-porter.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs stamps watch
$250 - net-a-porter.com

Alex Monroe feather earring

199 GBP - farfetch.com

I know the shoes and accessories are expensive but hey, Joan was a business owner! I really miss this show, if you want to get the Joan look down, make sure to add big hair, gold jewelry(minimal), and really natural makeup! Have fun!

L-O-V-E

NIK

Random Random Random

2011-03-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a random post because I am recovering from an abscessed tooth(which will be extracted on Monday), and am not in the mood for pictures. I had planned to show you some of the musical things I am working on this week, but I still need to get some of the kinks worked out of my baby studio.

Obligatory Pic

I just wanted to show you a few things that have caught my eye.Behold Alexander McQueen Spring 2011 Shoes.

Are they not breathtaking? I am also in love with Tom Ford Spring 2011 Eyewear.

I wish those weren't sunglasses. How awesome would one look in cat-eye eyeglasses?

What have I been listening to?Jamiroquai. I know, i told you this is random. They are truly one of the greatest British bands ever.

And for those of you who voted for Pedro...

L-O-V-E

Nik

So Appalled

2011-03-11T19:53:00.000-08:00

Nothing much to say, but I would like to send my prayers out to the people of Japan and every subsequent location that has experienced the aftermath, such as Hawaii and Cali. My heart goes out to them.

As a side note, can I reiterate how much I hate graduate school? Just had to get that out. Please pray that I get some other options going or can change schools. I could go on for days about how much it makes me nauseous.

Jacket-forever21 +,Top-gift from BFF,Trousers-Dorothy Perkins,Heels-Hussein Chalayan

On the face

Usual foundation and bronzer routine

Blush-NARS-Lovejoy

Eyes

Stila eyeshadows in Lavender,Violet,and Purple

Rimmel Sexy Curves Mascara in Black

Lips

Covergirl Queen Collection lipstick in Girly Pink

NYC Clear lipgloss

Hope you all have a good weekend or Spring Break if you have it!

L-O-V-E

Nik

I adore Pat McGrath

2011-03-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

style.com

As a musician, I am always looking around me for sources of inspiration. Whether it be auditory or visual. As you know, I am an avid lover of makeup, and adore runway looks. My absolute favorite makeup artist(almost tied with Val Garland,Billy B.,and Kevyn Aucoin,R.I.P) is Pat McGrath. Her imagination is endless, constantly producing breath taking beauty looks every few moments. This season at the Yves Saint Laurent show, Pat produced a look that did not end up on the runway, but was amazing to look at nonetheless.

style.com

Fresh skin with highlight, full brows,slight warm taupe in crease and below lid,light pencil on the waterline with barely there mascara... and a VIBRANT PURPLE LIP

style.com

I had to try my own interpretation! Nowhere near as beautiful as this, but fun to try!

My flash is washing this out. The actual color is a deep grape.

I had this Revlon lipstick in Va Va Violet just sitting in my makeup collection after only swatching it once or twice on my hand, so I thought I would give it a try. The coverage is actually quite creamy and a bit sheer for this look, but it is only my interpretation. I wish I had lined my lips in black and placed this color on top, it would have been more vibrant. Or perhaps if I had some matte purple pigment, I could have dabbed the color on top of the cream for a matte purple lip.

On the skin is just a bit of loose powder mixed with moisturizer and a bit of bronzer(NARS Casino) for contour and Benefit Coralista(which is light on me) as a highlight. I penciled in my brows with a Jordana eye pencil in brown,and swept Milani eyeshadow in Java Bean(discontinued,try a medium toned brown or bronze)very softly in my crease and under my eye. Lastly, I put a light coating of mascara on my top and bottom lashes and lined my lower waterline with Benefit eye Bright.

Hope you find this useful!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Color Blocking 101

2011-03-08T16:54:00.000-08:00

My second favorite trend of this season is definitely the color blocking trend! I love a good vibrant impact color, in multiple if you have it!

After hours of standing...my poor feet are swollen:( This picture does these no justice.

Jacket-handmade by my grandmother,Tee-Danskin,Pants-Dorothy Perkins,Pumps-Mario Bologna

A rainy,busy day calls for simple makeup!

On the Face:

MUFE HD Foundation in #173

Maybelline Purestay Powder Foundation in Tan

Stila perfecting concealer in shade F

Nars Bronzer in Casino

Nars Blush in Torrid

Benefit Coralista as a highlight

Eyes:

Stila eyeshadow in Sake all over lid up to brow bone

Milani Liquif'eye pencil in Brown on brows and in Black on upper and lower lids and waterline

Rimmel Sexy Curves Mascara in Black

Lips:

Revlon Lip Gloss in Nude Lustre

I hope everyone is having a great week!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Another Day to Run...

2011-03-07T17:02:00.000-08:00

Oh snap posts back to back! I can't believe it either!

Voila! She posts!

And tries to take flight...

Turtleneck-Just my Size,Jeans-Dorothy Perkins,Vest-thrifted Express,Beret-vintage,Shoes-Hussein Chalayan

I'll always be a fan of seventies style, I am so glad it's back in fashion this season!I've been listening to a ton of seventies music, and watching Soul Train reruns for songwriting and fashion inspiration.

As a part of my goal to work on my music this year, I have been not only listening to my favorite songwriters but also watching documentaries on their lives.

My favorite two have definitely been "Still Bill", the documentary about my favorite songwriter, Bill Withers, and "Everything In Between: The making of Ellipse", the movie documenting the process of Imogen Heap's last album.

Most young people may not know who Bill Withers is, but they definitely have heard a Bill Withers song. "Ain't No Sunshine","Lovely Day","Lean On Me","Use Me",and "Grandma's Hands" ring a bell? Bill is a genius, my greatest wish in life is to be half the songwriter that he is.Words can't express how much this man's music changed the course of my life. This documentary is amazing, if you love music I suggest you find a showing or better yet, purchase a download or a DVD. I've heard they have been showing on Showtime, so if you have it, check it out!

I am a huge fan of Imogen Heap! She is one of the most innovative songwriters I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. She does everything herself(including engineering) and does it amazingly. This documentary was so inspiring! If you are unaware of who Imogen Heap is, she is the writer of "Hide and Seek", which was sampled for the hook of that Jason Derulo song "Whatcha Say"(no comment on Jason Derulo).

On the Face:

Makeup Forever HD Foundation in #173

Nars Bronzer in Casino

Nars Blush in Desire

Covergirl Translucent powder in Honey

Eyes:

Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Bourbon as a base

Stila eyeshadow in Sepia all over lid and under eye

Stila eyeshadow in Light Orange on brow bone

Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Perversion on waterline and smudged into lash lines

L'oreal Lash Out Mascara in Black

Milani Liquif'eye pencil in Brown on brows

Lips:

Prestige lip liner in Bordeaux

Black Radiance Lipstick in Purple Passion

L-O-V-E

Nik

P.S.

MIA no longer

2011-03-06T21:30:00.000-08:00

Hey there lovely readers! I was helping my sister out with a project today and we ended up at our University's stadium, so I took some quick outfit shots!

If I could just stop raising my eyebrow...

Want to know where I got my Bachelor degree(and am now working on a second Master degree?)? Look behind me. This is not an invitation for stalking...just putting that out there.Just kidding, I'm way too boring to stalk.

Shirt-Lee Denim,Velvet Trousers-Talbots,Leopard Flats-Faded Glory

I also found another great drugstore lip product! For those of you out there that want to try a red gloss, I'm into Revlon Colorburst lipgloss in "Fire"

See?There I go raising the same brow...

Not for the faint of heart! I love it!

Check out the latest post at Mezzo Delicioso! I'm in love with Jose James' voice!
Oh, and I have been doing much better health wise, although I'm still on medication(unfortunately).Thank you for the inquiries.

L-O-V-E

Nik

Nik's Drugstore picks: Think Pink

2011-03-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

Hey there lovely readers! Long time no see huh? I wanted to share a couple of my latest drugstore finds with you guys!

Yes that is new hair!

I have been on the lookout for a suitable but blindingly bright hot pink lipstick and I think I have found it! The one pictured here is called "Rose Hip" by one of my favorite drugstore brands Milani. I also found a shimmery,deeper version of hot pink by Black Radiance and it is called "Purple Passion".

Black Radiance Purple Passion on top,Milani Rose Hip on bottom

I am wearing Milani Color Perfect Lipstick in "Rose Hip" in all of these pictures!

I am also in love with Milani's Liquif'eye metallic eye liner pencils, which are pretty much exact dupes of the Urban Decay 24/7 liner pencils. I've compared the two of them and in some cases I actually like the Milani liner more. Don't let the "metallic" part fool you, the only metallic colors seem to be silver and gold. The black, brown, purple,and blue are all matte/cream.

From L to R, Milani Liquif-eye,Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Zero and Perversion

Left is Milani, right is Urban Decay

As you can see, they look(and apply) almost identical. Here are some swatches on my hand for comparison.

From L to R-Milani Liquif-eye in 01 Black,Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Zero,Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Perversion

As you can see, the Milani has a more intense black color payoff compared to the Urban Decay "Zero" shade and looks identical to the special edition "Perversion"(super black) shade. The "Perversion" shade is only available in the Urban Decay 15th anniversary gift set. The wear(at least on my allergy ridden eyes) is exactly the same to me. However, the Milani liner retails for $5.49, and the Urban Decay retails for $18.00...you do the math. I've been using the brown Milani pencil for my eyebrows and so far I have been satisfied.

Just thought I would talk about these since I've been wearing them so much lately, I never do "reviews" but I thought some of you makeup lovers would like to pick something up the next time you're in the drugstore! No one sent me these drugstore items for review,I coughed up my own dough.

L-O-V-E

Nik

Meaty Topic: Fat TV

2011-02-11T10:08:00.000-08:00

I've been battling with how to jump into this post. Let's just start off with the basics. I am well aware that fat discrimination(along with age) is one of the few remaining prejudices that is free to be practiced everywhere with no consequences. But my goodness, the exposure of fat people on television recently has exploded with negative imagery. Every time I turn on the television I have a weight loss commercial, as was to be expected at the beginning of the year...and when I do see fat people on television they are insanely miserable. They also seem to have no idea how exploitative the nature of the shows they are on is. I was so disgusted by what I saw that I decided to catch some of these programs and take some notes.

My first case study: MTV's "I Used to Be Fat"

Synopsis: The summer before a teen enters their first semester of college, they decided to change their lives by losing as much weight as they can in one summer. So when they get to college, they can say "I used to be fat".

Positives: I'm honestly truly stretching it here, but I suppose that taking the initiative to begin, work through and accomplish a goal, no matter how ludicrous it may seem, is admirable. I also do not think that there is anything wrong with wanting to change yourself if there is something about you that makes you uncomfortable. If your weight makes you uncomfortable, lose it. If you don't like your nose and want a nose job? That is okay too. Anything that can make an insecure teenager feel more comfortable in their skin is alright by me. Alright that's all I got.

Negatives:
*It's called "I Used to be Fat". WTF? As if saying this phrase makes them some sort of new amazing person with a vicious, dark past. You didn't commit a felony, you just had more body fat than you wanted at one point in your life. And? Why should anyone care? Why is that such a bad thing? Now that you are not fat anymore is your life all of sudden the best life ever? No? Was fat the only "problem" you've ever had? I know it's not that deep, but I never understood this whole stigma associated with ever being fat at any point in your life. People develop and grow and change over a lifetime. By the time I'm 85 I might be in a wheelchair with fragile breaking bones. When I think back on this time in my life I won't remember solely that I used to be fat, I'll remember I used to be strong,confident,active and(not 'despite the fact' that I was) fat. I will probably miss this time in my life...and my fat.

*These kids are trying to reach their goal weight, no matter the amount, within three months. Since when is it healthy or normal to lose 90 pounds within 90 days? How is it encouraging a healthy lifestyle to restrict calories to under 1400 a day while simultaneously exercising 4-8(!) hours every day. Yes, you read that correctly, the people featured on this show trained from 4 to 8 hours each day. Outside of an athlete, I am fairly certain that the average human body is not designed for 8 hours of intense cardio for fat burning. It has been proven over and over again, quick fixes do not solve problems. Why not give the kids a normal exercise and nutritional plan? That way they can keep the weight off for a lifetime instead of for a summer or a couple of years. Meanwhile, fat teens are sitting at home right now absorbing all of this information, not realizing what the producers edited to seem like regular weight loss is actually boot camp style training. MTV certainly has a knack for glorifying something deplorable and making it appealing to the younger masses.

* These kids have issues that are not related to food or fat. Yet no one does anything about it. Apparently losing weight is all the comfort that these young men and women, at a critical point in their socio-emotional development, need. There are no psychiatric evaluations or therapy sessions to deal with the mental side of choosing to change yourself. MTV producers find it much more appealing to show them binge eating for comfort yet not speak about what they need comforting from. Filmed over eating is one of the major caveats of weight loss television, because as we know all fat people have binge eating disorder. Give me a break.

* The "stand in the mirror with unflattering underwear and talk about what I hate about myself scene". OH MY GOD. This scene pops up in every episode and has a specific purpose. What is this purpose? To make the viewing audience visually uncomfortable with a fat body. Then to reinforce that the body is "bad" they have the person showing their body exclaim about how horrible it is. They do this so that in the end of the show, when their body is different, there is greater "catharsis" for the viewer. Negative stimuli has turned into positive stimuli...all is right in their world and they will live happily ever after. Has anyone seen "Inception"(my fave from last year)? Same thing. They are planting the idea that "fat is bad" at the beginning of the show and are keeping it in your subconscious by reminding you in various ways the situations in which it is bad. Also notice that they always have on ill fitting underwear and/or "workout gear" on other shows(such as the Biggest Loser or VH1's Celebrity Fit camp). This is purposely done to distort the eye to focus on the fat spilling out of and protruding from said clothing. As we know we can't see a beautifully lit fat body with fitting undergarments on that would defeat the purpose. The purpose is to shock you into hating fat.

Here's a sexy fat body for you in case you needed one(Source:Plus Model Mag). "What is the most resilient parasite? Bacteria? A virus? An intestinal worm? An idea." Oh Cobb you get me every time.

*Everything in between. This show is so ridiculous on so many different levels I cannot expound on it any further. Any opinions?

My second case study: Glee

Synopsis: Valentine's Day episode. Apparently Puck likes the fat chick(Zizes) and wants to date her.

Positive: There is more than one fat woman on Glee at a time. Thank goodness we're working. If Glee called me up, I would still be happy to receive a paycheck. Zizes seems to be a confident character full of zest.

Negatives:
* Every fat woman on Glee is not only a stereotype, but also somewhat dehumanized. I understand the show is about stereotypes, and that is how Ryan Murphy writes, but at this point the majority of the writing choices are just in bad taste and aggravating.

*Apparently, none of the fat women on the show can just be stereotypical women and have relationships, fun, love lives, and development. They all also have their femininity stripped away from them. Beast is call "Beast" and coaches the football team. Mercedes is the "sassy"(Lord I hate that word!!!) black girl side kick with no love life(and very few lines), the oldest television ploy in the book. Not to mention the fact that they had Mercedes take over Dr. Frank N. Furter,but that is an entirely different post for another day. Zizes is the dominant wrestler that handles business by being physically imposing and aggressive. Apparently around Glee parts, if you are fat you cannot embrace your womanhood.

*Singing "Fat Bottomed Girls" to a fat girl and subsequently commenting on her size during the entire episode. Why does Zizes have to be constantly referred to as having "curves","cushion", or the like? Why can't a character just be a character? I will say that at least she is getting more screen time than the "Asians" who are constantly referred to as Asian...as if we cannot see that. I think the producers are trying to show that they are so progressive and liberal with their casting choices. Who cares who you cast if they never get to participate in a meaningful way and probably get paid less than the leads?

*Anything you would like to comment on about the latest episode of Glee? Let me know in the comments.

All in all, negative imagery on tv is getting out of hand. I've just been alarmed with all of the fat hate lately so I thought I would speak on it. Have you seen any other shows with fat people involved in a negative way? You know how it works, hit me up in the comments!

L-O-V-E

Nik

Didn't I blow your mind this time?

2011-01-26T22:39:00.000-08:00

Tell me this isn't beautiful! Choreographed by one of my favorites Kate Jablonski...