So beautiful, I could cry.

These are my new obsession. I will hope to get my hands on these for the holidays or my birthday, but for now, it is just an obsession.

Spotlight On: Free People Jewelry

I was browsing the Free People website and stumbled upon so many great finds, especially in the jewelry and accessories area. I am loving the tribal influence in these pieces, and truly wish I could buy all of these necklaces! Unfortunately some of these are out of my price range, but they are great inspiration for vintage shopping.


Fortunes Told necklace

Fringe necklace

Anhelos necklace

Pocket Knife necklace

Destination Dreaming

Lately, I have been dreaming of traveling. The boyfriend and I keep brainstorming of all the places we want to visit. Although it's not possible for us to go anywhere right now, a girl can dream right? This is what I imagine wearing on our plane trips around the globe!

traveling dreams by ilyssa Brickman featuring Frye shoes

Draped jersey cardigan
$63 - net-a-porter.com
More Splendid cardigans »

AG Adriano Goldschmied The Ex-Boyfriend Crop Jeans
$215 - piperlime.gap.com
More AG Adriano Goldschmied jeans »

Frye 12R Womens Harness
$222 - lorisshoes.com
More Frye shoes »

Large cream suitcase with stud detail
520 GBP - mysugarland.co.uk
More luggage »

Crystalised Ring
$24 - modcloth.com
More rings »

Topographical Map - Paper
$0.73 - scrapbookpaper.com

Black Journal. 3.5"Wx5.13"D
$11 - crateandbarrel.com

Blade Rubber Stamps Stampers Anonymous Tim Holtz Collection Writing
11 GBP - bladerubberstamps.co.uk

Stuff I am loving

Lucca Couture open back sundress, Joe's cuffed denim shorts, Trouve 'Jenna' bootie, Celia blouse, Indio scarf, Fringed chain necklace, Paul Island earrings

Perfectly Pueblo

I work for Anthropologie, and every time I see this dress, I find it incredibly hard to resist purchasing it. By the time you read this, I may have already caved in and bought it! The canvas-like material on the Pueblo dress is perfect for summer, and could easily be your go to dress all season long. I love how this could be dressed up for a party, or worn with casual accessories for an every day look. I always enjoy a hint of rainbow, so the color combo in this dress is right up my alley. I can't say enough about it! The super flattering fit makes this ideal for all shapes and sizes.

Bonus: although it's a strapless dress, it comes with detachable straps so you could add them on for a different look.

Life is a Carnaval

I don't think words can describe to you the love I have for the Carnaval Bag from Anthro. From the over-the-shoulder shape, to the fringe, to the feathers....it all works! I am on a budget, so I can not splurge on this baby, but I can tell you about it, in the hopes that one of you can call it your own. This bag is so perfect for summer, and just about every activity that goes along with the warm weather. Alright- time to stop gushing! Enjoy the eye candy, and if you can- get your hands on it!

Colorful Creations

Turquoise has always been one of my favorite colors. Ever since I was little, and could never decide between "hot pink, purple, and turquoise". With all the raving about neutrals lately, I thought I would stray from the usual and brighten your (and my) day with some much needed color. Here are some inspiring images from the interwebs that I thought were so perfectly spring worthy. What colors get you excited for the spring season?

Images: Anthropologie, Martha Stewart, and Kate Spade

When Stars Align

My current obsession? This breathtaking ring by Nicole Richie's line, House of Harlow 1960. It is a new take on her starburst ring with black leather. I adore how bold it is, and the amazing colors. This statement piece add a lot to a basic outfit. Alright- I need to go and clean up the drool that is on my keyboard.

Buy at The Trend Boutique

image source: The Trend Boutique

Spring Cravings

Despite the fact that it is mid January, I found myself pausing in front of spring clothing windows. Although I am someone who loves the layering options of fall, I find myself, uncharacteristically enthusiastic for spring. One trend that I am loving is safari inspired. The Gap has a great collection out for spring, and I particularly liked the Belted Utility Jacket. It's a lightweight jacket, perfect for chilly spring evenings. Another thing I love (year round) is an armful of bangles. A stylish and budget friendly solution is the Melanie bracelet set from forever 21. When spring and summer finally come my way, I don't always feel like being exposed in a tank top. A sheer button up is ideal if you want more coverage while still keeping cool. Try this breezy button down from urban outfitters. Lastly is the amazing Via Spiga belt from Nordstrom. This waist cinching belt would be beautiful on top of a flowy white dress in the warmer months.

Exciting News!!!

A few posts ago I shared my love of the website Outblush. Upon seeing my post, they decided to share the love, and gave me the opportunity to write a guest post for them. I am proud to announce that I was the first guest blogger of the decade on Outblush!

Check out my article here!

And to all my new readers that found me by way of the article, welcome to The Edge!

Lots more exciting stuff to come this year, so stay tuned!

Let's Hear It For The Boys

My boyfriend has a knack for finding all things interesting on the Internet, and he shares his wonderful discoveries with me. One of his uber-cool findings was Uncrate- a website devoted to (and I quote the website): "guys who love stuff". With everything from style, to culture, every boy is sure to find themselves enamored with the outrageous gadgets featured on the site. Whether you are looking for a great guy gift, or just finding ways to waste time on the Internet, Uncrate will have you mesmerized for hours.  

Jedi Chic

Hey guys! So yesterday me and the boyfriend went to Disneyland, and had an amazing time. Disneyland is all decorated for Halloween now, and it's so fun to see the pumpkin Mickey decorations throughout the park. I have always been the biggest wimp I know, and have never been one to go on thrill rides. I enjoy a leisurely stroll through main street, some shopping, and fireworks. Not the case yesterday. Shockingly, I faced my fears and went on every ride I have ever been intimidated by, and conquered all of them. I could not be prouder of myself! On to the fashion portion of this post: I found some unlikely fashion inspiration in Tomorrowland. Maybe it's my partiality for ninja style, but I could not help but stare at the female Jedi costumes at the Jedi training camp. The kimono style top was cinched at the waste, and had amazing drapey sleeves...who knew Star Wars wear could be so flattering? In addition to the fantastic top (and totally sweet light saber), our  female Jedi had a very easy and chic updo. It kept the hair out of her face, which is imperative when you are facing the forces of evil.  

I really had an amazing time yesterday, and can not wait to go back again. 

Spotlight On: Hello Robertson

I recently came across the lovely designs of Hello Robertson, and knew I had to feature them. With tons of versions of their adorable hair accessories, and the option to design it yourself, the headbands made by New York girls Kelly Reynolds, Hannah Robertson and Angela Francine are sure to take the fashion world by storm. With all of their designs under $30, these hair accessories are the perfect (and wallet friendly) way to add a little oomph to a simple outfit. 

Can be found at hellorobertson.com

Home Inspirations

My parents are in town for my graduation (p.s. I am officially done with college! My last day was yesterday!) and they have been so kind, as to help pay for furnishing my home. For the past 5 months, my boyfriend and I have been living in a lovely apartment, with barely any furniture, so it's about time to furnish this baby. With all of my graduation gift money, I am turning this house into a home. Both my boyfriend and I are artistic people, so an eclectic sense of style works for us. I thought I would share with you some of my home inspirations. I apologize that I don't know where each picture is from. I have them all jumbled in an inspiration folder on my desktop, so it's all mixed together. I can tell you that many of these images came from Domino Magazine (may it rest in peace).  I hope you enjoy the home decor porn!

Taking A Cue From: DVF

When I was 3 or 4 years old, I was Minnie Mouse for Halloween. Even years after, I would go into my costume box, and pull out that polka dot hair bow, and prance around the house in it- just for fun. I still love many of the things I liked as a child, and often wish that I could incorporate my childish desires into my wardrobe, without looking foolish (I am only 5 feet tall- and could be confused with an actual small child). Who else, but my sartorial soul mate- Diane von Furstenberg, would make giant hair bows, so sophisticated? Every season, I look to DVF's runway and wish I had every piece in my wardrobe. For the past few seasons, DVF has included some amazing hair pieces to go with the outstanding clothing, and her most recent show is no exception. If you are like me, and don't have the most padding in your wallet, a great DVF bow alternative is this 'Jersey Bow Headband' from Urban Outfitters. This sweet headband is budget friendly, and comes in 3 colors. If 18 bucks is out of your price range, try DIYing a bow with your favorite scarf or a big piece of material. All I know is that I am a very happy girl, knowing that I can sport a giant bow on my head, just like Minnie.

Forget what they say...

Forget what they say.

I am a girl who lives in black. These items are my current lusts: 

Towwer booties

Raceyy booties (god I love you so)

Studded clutch (how cliche of me...again with the studs!)

Michael Kors watch

Crazy About: DVF

Despite the fact that it's been quite a long time since the spring collections came out, I find the hippie in me keeps finding inspiration from the Diane Von Furstenberg Spring collection. The juxtaposition of ethnic prints, and floral details is so whimsical, and I am completely obsessed with the headpieces. Obviously, you can DIY the headpieces with some ribbon and faux flowers, but for those who would rather just put down a few bucks for a pre-made piece, I have found 2  fabulous DVF- inspired options. The first is the Gold Dust Flower Headband from Free People. Its pretty gorgeous, no? And for 24 buckaroos, it won't put too big of a dent in your wallet. The next option is a tad more expensive, but handmade from an artist on Etsy (just click to check it out)!  

From your wannabe hippie,

-Ilyssa

Is it so bad to covet?

I covet you. 

Jeffrey Campbell Mel Studded Platform  

$178.00 

shopnastygal.com

A Few Favorites

My mind is currently flooded with desires for a romper. My boyfriend thinks I am a little odd because I am occupying my free time stalking all rompers online. It's clothing porn at it's finest. The one I want the most is this little lady from Topshop. I also love this pair of sandals from Tory Burch. They remind me of sting ray skin! Last but not least is the beautiful bracelet by Jill Golden. The cluster of turquoise mixed with the tarnished chain had me from hello. 

Topshop 'one shoulder playsuit': $90.00 -  topshop.com

Tory Burch 'Reid' ankle cuff sandal: $310.00 - nordstrom.com

flutter by Jill Golden 'Gracia Natural Turquoise'  bracelet : $350.00 - shopbop.com

Crazy About: Studs

This inaugural edition of 'Crazy About' is dedicated to my current obsession: pyramid studs! I simply can't get enough of these bad boys, and here, I'll show you some of the easiest studly pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe. 

1.  The fabulous Urban Renewal Studded Denim Vest: This former jean jacket is the perfect addition to add some punch to an otherwise simple outfit.  

$148.00 Urbanoutfitters.com

2. Pyramid Stud Earrings: At only 16 bucks, these babies will up your badass quotient, without putting a huge dent in your wallet.

 Urbanoutfitters.com

3. Free People Juno Stud Wedge: A studded leather wedge is the perfect, yet unexpected addition to your summer attire. $168.00 FreePeople.com 

4. Bona Drag Studded Ballet Slippers: The former ballerina in my nearly had a heart attack after setting my eyes on these. The perfect blend of girly fantasy, meets biker chic.

 $48.00 bonadrag.com

5. Urban Renewal Studded Short: Each pair of these vintage cut off shorts are different, yet they all have one thng in common: a pyramid stud trim. Each pair has been naturally distressed by their original owner, which gives the shorts some character. 

$58.00  Urbanoutfitters.com