It's A Mad World

Yes, I know I am way behind the trend being that I have just gotten into Mad Men, but I am loving it right now. I love the fashion and my boyfriend loves Christina Hendricks, so we can both agree on enjoying the show together. These are a few pieces that reminded me of the show, and I think would be great to add a bit of glamour to your wardrobe. Enjoy!

necklace
red dress
polka dot dress
classic red lipstick

Spotlight On: Become.co.uk

I don't know about you, but sometimes I wish there was a guide to life. Something that would make my day just a little easier to navigate. I recently found a website that is just that- it's a shopping guide! When it comes to shopping guides (be it back to school, or just fabulous shoes) Become.co.uk's website is designed to make shopping the web a little less overwhelming. For someone like me, who is often a tad indecisive, this helps point me in the right direction. I hope that helps you guys and gals. Now go forth, and comparison shop!

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

Get excited: Shabby Apple giveaway!

Shabby Apple is an amazing company that makes fabulous dresses (among other things) for affordable prices. I am definitely a budget conscious babe, and was thrilled when I took a look around their website.
I am so excited to announce that at the beginning of August, I will be launching a youtube channel featuring style advice, and Shabby Apple will be doing a giveaway for the launch! Keep checking in and when my youtube channel launches, you will have all the details on the fantastic giveaway!

Her Name Is Summer

As a girl living in Los Feliz in LA, I see a lot of indie/hipster girls. I love the effortless style that they have, but due to my curvy figure, loose fitting clothes just don't always work on me. I realize that there is one indie icon that has amazing style, and also looks polished- someone that I really admire. Ms. Zooey Deschanel. With her dark bangs, and endless stylish skirts and dresses, Zooey Deschanel is the epitome of indie chic.

Cardigan

Dress

Eyeliner

Earrings

Umbrella

Om

I love feathers. Whether it be a single one intertwined in a headband, or a feather pattern on a blouse, I can't get enough. Alkemie Jewelry decided to revamp the feather earring of generations past and truly create a statement. Their Om earring will have you breathing deep with excitement. Sitting at 8 inches long, including a reclaimed metal 'om' symbol, this head turner will have everyone in the room asking how to get your style. Meditate on that thought.

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

Qi New York spring promo!

Hey guys! I wanted to let all of you know that Qi New York is having a fabulous spring promotion! If you haven't heard of them before, Qi is a knitwear company that makes amazing cashmere pieces (that sounds like the perfect Mothers Day gift in my opinion)! So what is this fantastic promo you may ask? Just enter the word "SPRING" at www.qinewyork.com for 30% off everything except lounge and sale items.

Flirty Under 30

Hello. My name is Ilyssa and I am on a budget. With the economic climate where it is, it's hard to purchase a $300 item without feeling a little guilty. Fear not fashionistas! There is no 12 step program required to put your wallet into recovery. Old Navy has some great options for spring fashion. All three items above are under 30 dollars (the necklace is under 13)! Amazing! Now you can rock the romper trend, relax in a maxi dress, or amp up an outfit with the layered chains necklace, all while being able to afford a nice dinner. How is that for cheap and chic?

Images via oldnavy.com

There Are Places In The World Where People Do Not Dream

I stumbled across this through Jordan Ferney's blog- Oh Happy Day! She showcased this amazing book, which really makes you remember what life is about. I often put my dreams aside, in order to be realistic, but this book shows us that dreams are meant to be big and grand, and everything you want them to be. Although it's written for children, I think it is a perfect read for adults who need a little inspiration. To read the book, just click here!

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

The Zoe Effect

One of my guilty pleasures is watching QVC or the Home Shopping Network. I can't help but indulge in the beauty demonstrations and friendly hosts. Although I tend to hide my sad little addiction, there was one QVC line that I was proud to tune in for: Rachel Zoe. Albeit a tad overpriced for something I can't try on before I buy, Zoe's line is filled with beautiful and opulent jewels, faux fur and fabulosity. I fell in love when I saw this cocktail ring, and knew that it had to be a part of my collection. After a month of contemplating, I finally gave in and purchased it. It looks like an amazing estate piece, yet is so easily accessible. I am so excited for it to arrive, and to wear it to lots of holiday celebrations. Buy it here.

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.  

Spotlight On: Pade Vavra

Pade Vavra is a Los Angeles jewelry designer, that creates amazing and unique pieces that have been seen on the likes of Rachel Zoe, Joy Bryan, Mila Kunis, and Gwyneth Paltrow. In addition to her extensive clientele, Pade's work has been featured in Lucky, W, Japanese Vogue, and WWD.   One of my friends works for Pade, therefore I always get to admire the gorgeous jewels when I see her. I own 2 pairs of earrings by Pade, and the quality and detail that goes into each piece is amazing. This is a double shank ring my friend was wearing (on loan) from the Pade Vavra fine jewelry collection. It has a one-of-a-kind quartz with pave diamonds encrusting the top of the 14kt peach gold bands. It is truly amazing. The PADE by Pade Vavra collection is much more affordable, and both can be found here. I just had to gush over the stunning rock that I had the pleasure of ooh-ing and aah-in over tonight. 

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