Considering I spent a third of my life in college, it’s no wonder that I have some serious alumna pride. Sure I went to multiple schools and switched majors a couple times, but I eventually sealed this whole apparel deal at The Art Institute of Portland. It was the best of times (I have an enviable collection of custom clothing) and also the worst (sewed through my finger in a mad dash to finish a final project), but it all instilled in me a sense of  seriously psycho work ethic. I’m currently anticipating what the class of 2011 has been slaving over in preparation for the senior collection fashion show, Fit2Print, which takes place this Saturday, June 4th at Pure Space. In addition to rooting for my fellow alumni (personal fave: Bryce Black), I am stoked to see how this year’s theme will intertwine fashion and graphic design (cocktail dresses made of film strips? Yes, please!). Tickets to the show and silent auction benefit the Creative Arts Scholarship Fund. For those of us who grudgingly send in our student loan payment each month, we know that a little scholarship money is worth working your ass off for. On that note, I will rest my case and hope to see you at the show (fashionably dressed and right on time pretty please!).

I have never been one to skimp when it comes to maintenance. I was busted cutting my own bangs at 4 years old and for stealing my mom’s Lancome lip gloss in the 3^rd grade (apparently it wasn’t appropriate for elementary school). I can even remember using eye make remover at an age when I wasn’t even wearing eye makeup, but it was the thought that counted (I wish I’d known baby oil was the way to go). My point? I have always been thoroughly enticed by everything and anything beauty related. I dye my hair every month, get weekly manicures, buy fancy skin cream, and I cannot ever imagine a day without makeup! Both my skin and hair are extremely dry, sensitive and prone to freaking out so I have tested countless products in an effort to smooth and soothe from head to toe. I also have strong feelings about the need for spf, I’m pro-sunless glow, and I am always flashing colorful nails. Most of my favorite products can be found at any drugstore, but I do splurge at the suggestion of my hairstylist (she’s a Bumble girl), dermatologist (Rx’s are a necessity) and makeup artist (she taught me to embrace quality brushes). It’s not like I’m incapable of being a “wash ‘n go” kind of gal, but I needn’t be one when there are so many beneficial products to take advantage of. Check out a sampling of my most treasured treatments.

1. KMS Moisture Repair Conditioner 2. Retin-A .05% Cream

3. Lorac TANtalizer Bronzer 4. Clairol Nice ‘N Easy Root Touch Up

5. Bare Minerals SPF 15 Foundation 6. eos Shaving Cream

7. M.A.C. Fibre Face Brush 8.Bumble and Bumble Styling Lotion

9. Maybelline Volum Mascara 10. Aquaphor Healing Ointment

11. L’Oreal Elnett Hairspray 12. M.A.C. Select Cover-Up

13. Conair Hot Rollers 14. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

15. M.A.C. Plushglass in Ample Pink 16. Wen Cleansing Conditioner

17. Essie Nail Polish in Lollipop 18. Ulta Tinted Self-Tanning Spray

19. Johnson’s Baby Oil 20. Sally Hansen Cuticle Treatment Pen

21. Mario Badescu Kera Face Moisturizer

Perhaps this post should be titled “M.I.A.” because where have I been lately? More like, where haven’t I been?! Be it styling disco themed fashion spreads or getting my freak on at the infamous <<do over>>, my spring has totally sprung! How fitting that I’m really feeling the bold brights that are so relevant right now. My current uniform consists of coral tops + slightly cropped white Ava’s + nude sandals. Now not everyone should wear white pants (I feel like I’m breaking my own rules with them), but DO get yourself a pair of nude pumps immediately! Not only do they slim and elongate the legs, but they go with everything! More importantly, when it comes to color only pick one bright item and go totally minimal with the rest of your ensemble (hence, the nude shoe). Seeing as I’m so out and about these days (fierce exaggeration), I hope to scout some haute pink (or blue or green or orange…) helping to spring us all into summer.

1. Zara Long Skirt

2. Splendid Rugby Stripe Maxi Dress

3. Oakley Surf Tote

4. Zara Straight Trousers

5. Eliza J Belted Cotton party Dress

6. M.A.C. lipstick in Show Orchid

7. J.Crew Jetty Dress

8. Steve Madden Riddgge Wedges

9. American Apparel Parka

In a highly un-scientific study, #TOOTZ and I have concluded that the ‘belting’ trend has become a played-out cop-out. Belted cardi’s, blouses and dresses are looking over-exposed and a little too Kim K. for my currently-minimalist taste. If you’re investing in garments that are well-draped and fit properly, then you should not have to belt anything to reveal the hot bod “hiding” underneath. While I would never suggest you quit belting all together (hello, I have one bitchin’ belt collection), I propose we just loosen up for awhile. On the other hand, if you can’t seem to unleash the beast entirely, then at least make the switch to a sleeker strap and avoid the wide, stretchy/leather combo’s that only add unnecessary bulk. Ask yourself: is my belt adding to the plate or distracting from the main entree? There is a fine line between good and bad, so here’s a guide to make belting a cinch!

A special style shout-out to Eden Dawn over @ Po Mo’s Shop Talk for her Style Trial shout-out. #FollowUsBothOnTwitter and watch out for our spring fashion fling in the April issue of Portland Monthly.

The day has finally come where I can boast that 70’s fashion is in full bloom. Though I wasn’t established until 1980, the previous decade’s feathered hair, bow-tie blouses, secretary dresses, bohemian bags, earthy baubles and high-waisted bell bottoms get the best of me. Images of Charlie’s Angels, Saturday Night Fever, Studio 54 and Dazed and Confused have always resonated with me, and I’d toss my every belonging in exchange for a vintage Halston gown. The Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 collection followed by the recent Gucci Fall 2011 show have thrown the grooviest of trends into the mainstream, and now it’s time for us to do the hustle. Start by investing in denim flares that will instantly balance your hips and pair them with an updated retro platform sandal. The marketplace is flooded with a bell for every bottom so take your pick and get your groove on.

1. Hudson ‘Ferris’ Stretch Flare

2. Rich & Skinny ‘Sugar’ High-Rise Flare

3. J.Brand ‘Bette’ Wide-Leg

4. Gap New Wide Leg Trouser

5. Rebecca Taylor ‘Runway’ Front Zip Denim Pant

6. CJ by Cookie Johnson ‘Prosper’ Stretch Trouser

The winter-into-spring fashion transition is one rough ride. Though chiffon florals are blooming inside, temperatures are still dropping outside. How’s a girl to dress when her heart longs for spring but her hands are freaking freezing?! Enter: Zanna Roberts Rassi. She is the senior fashion editor of Marie Claire magazine, and she is currently kicking all of our asses in the style department (maxi-skirt alert!). Zanna is tall, lanky, British and much wealthier than all of us. Yes, it’s pretty impossible to identify with her, but that doesn’t mean we can’t learn something from her globe-trotting style. She’s mastered the art of mixing masculine and feminine silhouettes using gorgeous monochromatic color stories. A lesson of fashion from A-to-Zanna is the perfect way to guide us towards spring.

1. Theory ‘Charlena’ Zip Front Cardigan

2. Luxury Divas Houndstooth + Fringe Scarf

3. Marc B ‘Chelsea’ Double Chain Bag

4. La Mer Oversized Square Watch

5. Forever 21 Rockstar Panel Bracelet

6. Forever 21 Marbled Stretch Bracelet

7. Sephora by OPI ‘Break a Leg Warmer’ nail polish

8. ModCloth ‘Long Story’ Maxi Skirt

9. Modcloth ‘All Ivory Ever Wanted’ Blouse

10. Forever 21 Aviator Sunglasses

11. Frederic Fekkai Ironless Straightening Balm

12. Two Star Dog Heritage Pants

13. Jessica Simpson ‘Colie’ Wooden Platform Pumps

14. Topshop Apricot Shawl Collar Blazer

15. Urban Outfitters BDG Primary Satchel

As February’s unofficial mascot, I tend to take my birthday month for all it’s worth. I started the party with a trip to San Francisco, aka my sister city, for a stay in the lap of luxury! In order to arrive in style with easily interchangeable pieces, this vacay involved some serious outfit preparation time! I tend to OVER pack in general, but I had quite a few events on the agenda ranging from cocktail parties to play dates with my nephews. To focus my inspiration I chose to style stalk my current muse Olivia Palermo, and I took hints from her playfully eclectic-meets-urban sophisticate signature look. I jumped way out of my silhouette comfort zone and raised all hemlines to mini’s (plus black hose of course), and I ditched my military parka in favor of a city sleek leather jacket. My suitcase was maxed with funky flats (maybe even a ‘hook or two!) and fancy daytime layers. In the end my pocket book ached from a couple of impossible to pass up investment pieces… but sometimes the birthday girl just needs to OWN it! Oh snap, Toots!

1. Black & White Print Scarf

2. All Saints Heston Jacket

3. Joie ‘Kenza’ Cashmere Sweater

4. Aldo Cyphert Satchel

5. Robert Rodriguez Sequin Blazer

6. Diesel Snap Belt

7. DKNY Trench (similar style)

8. Elizabeth & James Leopard Flats

9. Topshop Moto Side Zip Skinny Jeans

10. @Anthropologie Imagining Butterflies top

11. Sam Edelman ‘Effie’ Wedge

12. Chouettes Vintage Rhinestone Amethyst Earrings

13. JBrand ‘Kiki’ High Rise Flare

14. Gabrielle Rocha ‘Neve’ Patent Flats

15. Topshop ‘Floral Bloom’ Shift Dress

16. C&C California Long V-Neck T-shirt

Greetings all! I apologize for the lack of recent updates; however, in my defense I’ve been on a bit of a much-needed sabbatical. Case in point: a long overdue reunion with my college roommates. I’ve needed to check Denver off my trips-to-do list since 2006,  so it was time to pack a hefty suitcase and get on a Rocky Mountain High. First stop: pedi’s (I’m loving lavender), then a tour of Casa de Andi (no more “slumlords” in sight), followed by: a glass of wine, freezing my arse off, a sample life coaching session (a must!), a bottle of wine, a styling session (note: choose  long, bold statement sweaters over cropped, ruffled cardigans), yet another freezing of the arse but blue sky + sunshine all the while. I then switched ‘hoods and headed to a 90’s rock revival costume party with R-Dawg and Sklllz. Thankfully the coolest professional photog was on hand to capture all of our grunge glory. At 24 degrees, my leggings + shredded Levi’s shorts + plaid shirt ensemble left me cold as ice, but let’s be real: I’d show up for a party that fun in freakin’ Antarctica if it meant I’d get to relive some great college memories. I’m so glad that I over-packed (as usual) because I couldn’t stop piling on the layers to keep warm (did I mention it’s bitter cold there?!). As I said Adios to my collegiate crew (R-Dawg has actually put her Spanish degree to work!), it dawned on me that we’d accomplished nothing but fun times. Living the leisurely high life sounds like my entire Colorado collegiate experience… no wonder I had to transfer to graduate!

1. Forever 21 Contrast Clear Framed Sunglasses

2. Juicy Couture Faux Fur/Wool-Blend Cardigan

3. Madewell Garden Gates Scarf

4. Yoox Annarita N. Coat

5. Free People Chunky Cable Glove

6. Forever 21 Leatherette Tassel Handbag

7. Sanctuary Corduroy Pants

8. Clarins HydraQuench Cream SPF 15

9. MICHAEL Michael Kors Calista Boot

10. Murad Energizing Lip Protector SPF 15

11. Sorel 1964 Pac Graphic

12. Cooperative Trompe L’oiel Fingerless Gloves

13. Paige Denim Hidden Hills Skinny

14. All Saints Circus Square Scarf

15. Topshop Knitted Rose Stripe Cable Jumper

If you’ve ventured back into the stores lately, surely you’ve noticed that spring 2011 has already hit the racks. Most of us are still combing the sale racks in search of winter’s finest (hello, it’s snowing!), but I think it’s necessary to lighten up a bit on the layers in favor of one heavy wool camel coat instead. Right now I am seriously committed to horizontal striped tops. My New Year’s Resolution is to “simplify” in any way possible, and striped shirts match everything while adding a little French flair to any ensemble. I’m also committed to wearing heels at least one day per week to put a little more sass in my strut. A wedge is perfect for the girl who needs some added support (aka me), and right now wedge booties are cute as can be! Perhaps this week you should consider ditching the turtleneck for a boatneck and put some spring in your step too!

1/ Pammy J Floral Print Fuschia Zebra Scarf

2/ Delias Blue Floral Scarf

3/ Modcloth Shake Your Pom Pom Scarf

4/ Carhartt Long Sleeve Sweater

5/ Old Navy Striped Boatneck Tee

6/ Splendid Striped Jersey Boatneck Top

7/ Citizens of Humanity Ava Straight Leg

8/ Chloe Mid-Rise Straight Leg Jean

9/ PRPS Heirloom Slim Straight Jean

10/ Steve Madden Dessertt Wedge Bootie

11/ Tory Burch Desert Bootie Wedge Espadrille

12/ Sam Edelman Effie Suede Wedge Bootie

This dreadful winter weather has me feeling all shades of drab, lackluster, blue and blah. My skin is drier than the Mojave, my attitude is in need of a serious adjustment, and (gasp!) black has become my new signature color (but striped and combo’d with a dazzled bib necklace of course). My resolution for a Happy New You begins now as I dig through my closet for the brightest coat I own, and I’ll be tossing back some vitamin D3 in hopes of a more cheerful tomorrow!  If the winter woe has got you down and stressed out too, then I’ve got some calming solutions for you. Clear out the medicine cabinet and bust out the workout gear for optimal results! If nothing else seems to kick-start our cold hearts, let’s just say we’re having a “major Black Swan moment” and call it good for now.

1. Murad Essential-C Day Moisturizer SPF 30

2. The North Face Aconcagua Jacket in Retro Pink

3. Aquaphor Healing Ointment (dermatologist recommended!)

4. Yogi Green Tea

5. BodyWisdom Yoga For Stress Relief DVD

6. Ugg Bailey Button in Crushed Violets (give your brown pair a rest!)

7. Alacer Emergen-C Multi-Vitamin Cherry Pomegranate Packets

8. Andrew Pollack “Life F’n Sucks: Get Out of Your Slump and On With Your Life“

9. Aura Cacia Lavender Essential Oil (sprinkle some on your pillow at bedtime!)

10. Sonoma Lavendar Salt Scrub

11. Now Foods Vitamin D-3, 5,000 IU