style sarah

i like the way you pop your bubbles, bubblegum girl

2012-03-18T11:16:00.000-04:00

I'm sure you've loved an item on somebody else so much that you had to go out and snag it yourself. This dress was totally the case when I picked my best friend up at the airport before a week long boy band stalking adventure (you don't want me to get started on that). The fit is perfect, the black and white stripe is simple but can go in so many directions trend-wise, and it can phase through many seasons regardless of the mostly-white color. Sure enough, I strutted my behind over to H&M and bought that dress, and I'm pretty sure it was under $20.

I paired the dress with a thrifted bubblegum pink blazer that I don't wear nearly enough. This blazer is a piece that I didn't appreciate until somebody else raved like crazy about it (coincidentally my best friend – too bad she can't go out and buy this!).

Blazer: Thrifted

Dress: H&M

Boots: Endless.com

Scarf & Tights: Forever21

but that was when i ruled the world

2012-03-04T10:26:00.000-05:00

My best friend in the whole entire world was in the city visiting me and decided that the phone booth (complete with a banana peel and other delicious goodies) was perfect for some outfit shots.

If I knew that I wouldn't have to sprint to the M34 bus in the morning, I would most definitely wear these heels to work more often, but the thought of taking a tumble and snapping my ankle in the middle of 3rd avenue is a little intimidating. I think I'll stick to safer shoes, at least for the winter.

I love the autumn color story of this look with the burnt orange top and the textured pant. The fit of these pants is wonderful, except they're a little big in the waist so they fall down with or without a belt. I felt like a teacher in the 1970's — I should have taken advantage of that at yelled at some kids.

Top: Thrifted

Pants: Forever21

Belt: Vintage (from an amazing boutique in Pittsburgh)

Shoes: Forever21

Scarf: New York & Company

like mother, like daughter

2012-02-29T20:35:00.000-05:00

My mom is the most wonderful woman in the world. I'm not just saying that because she's my mother and she is wonderful towards me, she is a genuine, to the core, amazing person. She takes care of everybody, and yet, manages to dress impeccably. She's always on trend and always dresses for her body and her age.

What I love about my mom's style, that heavily relies on Banana Republic, J. Crew, GAP, and Ann Taylor Loft, is that she always reverts to basic pieces. When she does go for a trendy item, she chooses something that can last for a few seasons (and I always want to snag it out of her closet).

These photos are super old, but I've wanted to do this post for a long time and just never got around to it.

On Thanksgiving Day, I put together an outfit to run errands and do an outfit post. The thrifted floral top was something that I never thought would be my mom's taste, but she absolutely loved it and immediately ran to her closet to see whats he could pair with it. That's when we decided to swap a few pieces to show how not only my generation can wear them, but hers as well.

The first piece is this tan floral button down that I scored at the thrift store.

I love wearing button down shirts tied up at the stomach! Since I have such a slim upper figure, this helps me feel a little more girly and sexy.

My mom paired this top with a deep pink sweater that happened to match the floral pattern perfectly. She complimented this with a really great fitting pair of denim.

The second piece is a chunky grey sweater my mom got from Ann Taylor Loft.

My mom poked fun of me for being a little risque with the thigh highs, but I really liked them with the oversized sweater on a mild day.

She snuggled in with all black under (which I just did with this sweater to work yesterday!).

The third piece is an orange top and navy sweater that I snagged from my mom's closet.

I'm obsessed with this Banana Republic cardigan – I have been since the day she bought it, so I couldn't wait to wear it myself. We both paired this with denim, but changed up the shoes and accessories. The fit in denim is different as well, which is important for your age and shape.

Would you ever swap wardrobes with your mom?

i feel pretty, and witty, and...

2012-02-15T23:05:00.000-05:00

The most simple and superficial reasons, such as feeling pretty, can truly make one's day. I felt so fantastic all day because everything worked well together: the hair, the makeup, and the outfit.

I adore outfits that make people do a double-take, and in this particular ensemble, my pink faux fur scarf did the trick. I saw this gem at H&M in December but wasn't really in the mood to buy anything. Of course, a couple weeks later, I was still thinking about the pink fur and went back in search for it. Not only did I find it again, but it was on sale for a lovely $7! If anybody gets a rush from a good bargain, its me!

This outfit was also super comfortable and formal enough for the office - double win! Sometime things just come together without much effort.

Scarf: H&M

Necklace & Bracelet: Vintage

Top & Flats: Old Navy

Watch: Michael Kors

Earrings & Leggings: Forever21

nolcha fashion week

2012-02-12T16:22:00.000-05:00

To musicians, there's nothing like the feeling of performing on stage.

To photographers, there's nothing like the outcome of a perfect shot.

To me, there's nothing like the rush of experiencing a fashion show.

My first few months in New York City have been an absolute roller coaster, but without a doubt, the best months of my life. I've met some truly incredible people, and with that being said, great people can bring great big perks. Who knew I'd be attending shows at Nolcha Fashion Week 2 months into my NYC residency? Not I.

Experiencing the release of new collections from truly talented designers in the presence of people who share the love of fashion is energizing, inspiring, and exciting. Independent fashion designers are so much fun to see because you're not looking at a brand that is a mish-mosh of several designers, you're looking at the blood, sweat, and passion of one person.

Katie and I attended a couple shows for Nolcha Fashion Week a few days ago. Here's some of my personal photos followed by the official event recap and some official photos.

Nolcha Fashion Week: New York

2012 Runway Shows

On Thursday, February 9, Nolcha hosted their 11th Season of Nolcha Fashion Week : New York at The Ailey Studios, just blocks from Lincoln Center on West 55th Street. The day-long event featured 4 runway shows including two group shows at 12:30 and 3:30, and two solo shows at 6:30 and 9pm, respectively. Going on its sixth consecutive year, and held simultaneously with Mercedes-Benz Fashion week, Nolcha is one of New York’s leading platforms for independent fashion designers. The brands who presented yesterday were global in scope including designers based out of Turkey, Greece, Puerto Rico, United Kingdom, The Philippines, Italy, and the United States.

The 12:30pm show was a group presentation, featuring a mix of women's couture, ready-to-wear and accessories courtesy of the Jetset Collective by Farasha, Megla M, Carlos Luna, Teresa Rosati, and Grecian designer, Vassilis Zoulias. The 3:30pm show was also a group presentation, and featured: Antonia, Riza Manalo, Baruni, and Puerto-Rican designers Castro-Rojas and Rebeca Tiago. The 6:30pm show featured Italian designer, Danilo Gabrielli, whose collection represented a unique mix of rustic Italian sensibility with classic American luxury. And the 9:00pm show featured Turkish designer, Seckin Ilker, who presented stunning formal wear and bridal.

Celebrity attendance included singer, actress and TV personality, Adrienne Bailon, who was there to support Latina designers Rebeca Tiago and Charlyn Castro-Rojas. She arrived wearing a gorgeous Rebeca Tiago dress. LuAnn de Lesseps from Bravo's The Real Housewives of New York was also out to support Nolcha Fashion Week designer, Danilo Gabrielli, and was seen front row filming a new episode. Other front row guests throughout the day included reality TV alums like Graham Bunn (The Bachelorette & Bachelor Pad), Kwame Jackson (The Apprentice), Jo Lance (Mexico's Next Top Model), and recording artists including Prince Malik, Motown Records newest girl group "Jada", and MBK recording artist Daisha, as well as Z100 radio personality, Trey Morgan. New York power women like Alexandra Fairweather, Heather Thomsen, Carol Radzeweill, and Aviva Drescher were also spotted in the front row.

Nolcha Fashion Week was sponsored by American Airlines, Ambe, Monster Energy, Fashion Monitor, MyFDB.com, Don Q rums, Laser Cosmetica, Inglot, WeConnectFashion, House of Mikko, and YouTonics.

For more information, visit www.nolchafashionweek.com.

A couple of my favorite Nolcha Fashion Week looks:

Antonia

Rebeca Tiago

Danilo Gabrielli

Special thanks to the lovely Alyson Campbell at AMP3 PR!

someone passed around revolvers

2012-02-08T09:25:00.000-05:00

If you couldn’t tell by my recent outfit posts, the only reason that I’ve gotten through January alive is due to wearing bright, optimistic colors. I truly think that adding pops of color to your wardrobe is something incredibly simple that can boost your mood throughout the day. Take that, seasonal depression!

I wore a black & white striped H&M dress with a royal blue Forever21 skirt layered over it. I’ve found through fashion bloggers (especially Jessica from Midwest Muse) that dresses are incredibly versatile when it comes to layering. Many of my dresses wouldn’t be appropriate for work (this black & white one is a little short & tight) but with an a-line skirt layered over it, the dress is a whole new office friendly outfit! This is particularly helpful when your monthly rent in New York City costs more than open-heart surgery, and you need to keep your shopping on a budget. I finished the outfit off with lace patterned tights, black suede spectator shoes, and one more pop of color: a yellow beaded necklace.

I felt girly and fun in this look, yet edgy enough for the bustling city (not that my winter jacket didn’t cover everything when I was outside). My favorite part of this outfit was the inspiration I got out of it; I’m definitely going to be wearing more spectator shoes with tights. I felt like I could have danced down the block!

Dress & Shoes: H&M

Skirt & Tights: Forever21

Necklace: Charming Charlie

seventy years

2012-01-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

Would you marry somebody after knowing them just for a couple of weeks? Could you imagine yourself being with that one person for 70 years of your life (and counting)? If you have lost all hope in love, let me introduce you to Merle & Frances Everson, my lovely grandparents. Today, January 31st, is their 70th wedding anniversary, and they're still happily married and madly in love.

I know, I'm not the local church newspaper, so I'll stop with the sappy stuff (even though its pretty damn amazing) and show you something else pretty special: how hot my grandmother was. She was just telling me this evening how I must have taken after her, because when she was my age she loved clothes too. Style runs in our blood!

Here's a few photos of the sassy and fashionable Frances Everson!

The Eversons and their 3 beautiful daughters: Linda, Dixie, and Tina (my very hot mother):

I think I take after her a little bit!

Happy Anniversary and Congratulations to the most wonderful grandparents in the whole entire universe! You are the glue to an incredible family. To many more!

dare me to do it

2012-01-29T19:53:00.000-05:00

Every morning on my way to work, I take the bus down 34th street past all of the stores in the Herald Square area. There are some stores that always catch my attention with their window displays and styling, and recently it has been Uniqlo and (surprisingly) Bebe. I’m not a Bebe regular, but both of these retailers have been incredibly inspiring when it comes to kicking the winter blues out of your system. Color blocking with bright colors is no easy task, my friends. Though most see this trend as just putting two different colors together, you have to make sure that these colors are complimentary. Furthermore, you should make sure that they make a statement and inspire others to do the same! Uniqlo and Bebe did a great job with their color blocking keeping them within the same warm & cool families.

These seafoam jeans from H&M were a must-have. Colored denim is all the rage this winter and spring and I couldn’t be more stoked about it! I paired them with a royal blue blouse that I got thrifting back in Ohio a few months ago. I could never find the right color to go with this top, and one day, it just clicked! I brought these colors back down to earth with black details, like the necktie, the belt, and the wedges.

Top: Thrifted

Jeans: H&M

Shoes: Dillard’s

Belt: Forever21

Tie: H&M (it is a sash taken off of a dress)

What colors would you use when you want to make a statement through color blocking?

hip hop knit shop

2012-01-22T12:46:00.003-05:00

When I stumbled upon Hip Hop Knit Shop on Etsy, I had to reach out to the owner Sherrie. What a creative idea, to take something to edgy, urban, and hard and turn it into something to soft and intriguing! Sherrie, the Detroit based fashion innovator, created Hip Hop Knit Shop and has been knitting chain scarves since 2008.

I asked Sherrie a few questions about Hip Hop Knit Shop:

How did you decide to knit chains? What was your inspiration?

In 2008, an associate (at the time was a student in fashion design) and myself came up with the idea, but wasn't sure on how to execute the construction of the concept. We were both inspired by hip hop, our community (Detroit) and graffiti (art). One of our favorite artist/sellers on Etsy is JunkPrints! -- she's an amazing fashion designer and illustrator, which motivated me to open my own Etsy shop.

What was the initial response form the public?
When I made my first chain scarf, Chain # 89, in March 2011 and wore it for the first time in Downtown Detroit, I turned so many heads and was stopped multiple times by strangers it became truly overwhelming! 'Who made that?' 'Where did you get it?' 'I'm sorry, but I had to come closer to see if it was real!'-- These were just some of the questions and statements I was asked my first day rockn' the scarf.

What is your most popular color?
The most popular color I would say is the gold. I believe this is so because it gives the illusion of a real chain. The second most popular color I would say is black, which can go with anything -- you can dress it up or down and it looks GREAT with peacoats!

What is the market like selling in Detroit? Do you sell more items on Etsy?

I received a lot of support from my Detroit family. I believe I sell more in local boutique stores and just modeling my own product because pictures just doesn't give the scarves justice. When the public sees how versatile these chain scarves are when wearing them casually or even more business attire, their interest in the scarves escalate!

What was your most successful moment with your business?
Christmas 2011, Hip Hop Knit Shop organized a charity toy drive for Children's Hospital of Michigan. All of the sales' proceeds were donated to purchase new toys that would be given to children who were hospitalized on Christmas day. To further promote the toy drive, I purchased a booth on Noel Night at the College for Creative Studies to sell scarves. That one night I sold over $300 worth of scarves! It was a great night and I was overjoyed with the success of the toys drive. My goal of the toy drive was to collect 250 toys and Hip Hop Knit shop exceeded that goal and gave over 800 toys to Children's Hospital of Michigan, from donations of toys, money and sales of scarves!

Check out the Hip Hop Knit Shop HERE!
LIKE Hip Hop Knit Shop on Facebook HERE!

WANT TO WIN YOUR OWN HIP HOP KNIT SCARF?

Enter to win your own Hip Hop Knit Scarf chain #91 in gold, it's easy!

Here's how to enter:

- Simply leave a comment below explaining what you would wear with your Hip Hop Knit Scarf!

-For an extra entry, tag Sarah's Laundry on Facebook (and leave a comment on our wall!).

- For one more entry, mention Style Sarah and this contest on Twitter!

Contest ends at 11:59PM on Friday, January 27, 2012.

As Sherrie would say:

Love, Peace & HipHop!

my urban sunshine

2012-01-16T20:43:00.000-05:00

Tis the season for colored denim.

Its mid-January. The temperature is frigid and bitter. The sky is rarely blue. The sun is that friend you always hear about but never see. Everybody in New York wears black.

Underneath my parka, I sported my own version of sunshine!

I took one of my favorite vests (that Katie always makes fun of for being to boxy) and cinched it with my favorite belt (if you couldn't tell, I wear it often). The mix of super casual with the denim and a little formal (the black top is chiffon) seemed to be the perfect match.

Top: Thrifted

Vest: Abercrombie (thrifted & altered jean jacket)

Clutch, Belt, & Pants: Forever21

Shoes: Bebe

wrap yourself up in these!

2012-01-12T23:00:00.000-05:00

Have you seen such a perfect shop of scarves?

I stumbled upon KraeO throughout one of my many Etsy browsing sessions and developed the most massive crush on Kristin's products! Kristin, from Chicago, knits these lovely scarves herself! I am a sucker for a chunky scarf, and every single piece in the KraeO collection is on the top of my shopping list.

Check out my favorite pieces:

The Harvard Warmer - $64

The Tether Scarf - $48

The Chain Warmer - $48

The Beau Scarf - $118

Want one of these fabulous pieces?

Until this Sunday, January 15th, you can receive 20% off

of everything in the KraeO shop using the promo code "sarah20"!

Visit the KraeO shop HERE

Visit the KraeO Facebook Page HERE

Visit the KraeO Twitter Page HERE

tell me what you've taken tonight

2012-01-10T21:28:00.000-05:00

Sunday errands can absolutely look more fun than how they feel - just wear faux fur, fun shoes, and some crazy beaded & feather earrings!

The great weather in this city the past few weeks has allowed me to layer in a fun way (as opposed to looking like a miserable marshmallow with windblown hair). I had another new pair of shoes that I was dying to wear, but they have a laser cut pattern on them so any cold or rain would make wearing them difficult. Other than the fact that they're this amazing grey color, they were only $10! Who said shopping in New York City was expensive..?

Shoes: A boutique in Soho

Jeans: AG

Tee: Gabriel Brothers

Sweater: Filene's Basement

Vest: Forever21

Scarf: A street vendor in Rome, Italy

Earrings: Charlotte Russe

P.S. This is the LAST of the crappy iPhone photos. Promise!

i've had choices since the day i was born

2012-01-08T21:10:00.000-05:00

Look familiar? This is the ever famous Bryant Park - I felt that an outfit post for a style blog would be completely necessary (in the most cliché way).

While roaming the city on yet another beautifully mild weekend, I wore my new brown combat boots that I scored for a slim $29 at a boutique in Soho. While Soho is known for expensive boutiques, flagship stores, and sidewalks so jam packed with tourists that you can barely move, there are a few stores that are affordable and trendy. I promised myself that I will go to these boutiques for new clothes before I resort to Forever21 from now on. One of these boutiques is called Necessary Clothing.

Boots: Necessary Clothing

Jeans: Adriano Goldschmied

Tee: Forever21

Denim Vest: Thrifted (Abercrombie)

Scarf: Saks Fifth Avenue

Jacket: Forever21

I really need a new camera bag that allows my to carry my DSLR around without looking like a tourist. The iPhone photos were cute for a little while, but I'm over them and want my high quality photos back.

Any suggestions?

and it hurts like heaven

2012-01-03T20:01:00.000-05:00

While venturing around town on a beautiful (and amazingly mild) New Years Eve with one of my favorite ladies in the world (oh hey Abbey!) we decided to snap some photos in Soho. It was a New Years Eve filled with the most delicious New York City bagels, a short stroll around Rockefeller Center, shopping in Soho, and brunch in Union Square.

While our actual New Years events will be posted later, here's a fun outfit I wore for the day:

I have a collection of thrifted tops that are perfect for work and play. I've seen tan & black polka dot tops everywhere right now, so I'm pretty stoked about this find. The sweater and jeans both have a 'leather' coated finish.. for a little edge!

Can you believe these were taken on an iPhone..?

Polka dot top: Thrifted

Sweater: H&M

Gloves: Urban Outfitters

Jeans: Forever21

Boots: A boutique in Soho

Shades: Ray Ban

this city was built for us

2011-12-29T19:55:00.000-05:00

My first month in the concrete jungle has proven to me that I, in fact, have made the best decision ever to uproot my life and transplant myself here. Though my blog posts have been sparse (this is changing my friends) I can give you some pieces as to what I've been up to through some iPhone photos.

Everything has seamlessly fallen into place, and somehow, has ended up be to better than I have ever expected. An apartment with a view in Murray Hill, a fantastic job (with pretty rad co-workers), and one of my best friends a train ride away are all pieces of this experience that I have no right to complain about.

It baffles me that I walk out of my apartment building every morning, look to the right, and see the Empire State Building. I take the 34th street bus to and from Penn Station every morning and evening only to ride by the infamous Macy's, a Forever21, H&M, Zara, and plenty of other shopping heavens that people travel the country to see. Believe me, for as long as I have wanted the life that I am living right now, I am not taking a second for granted. Every breath in this city is a grateful one. I was absolutely meant to live here.

I've had to hold off on shopping, which is quite depressing, but the outfit inspiration from women I see everyday has really sparked some creativity within my current wardrobe. I can't wait to show all of you!

For now, here is a glimpse of my current life:

graffiti in the neighborhood i stayed in for a few weeks with katie & rickson (inwood)

city view from the george washington bridge

christmas tree galore lining the city street corners of inwood

roomie love! rickson and i having some fun before a night out

katie and i posing (and appearing to look innocent) before causing some trouble

hot mess in the subway! the results of falling after getting spanked by rickson.

finally visiting serendipity 3 & the famous frozen hot chocolate with my cousin michelle

subways and city streets filled with festive drunks during santacon 2011

katie and i out on a friday night date - thai food, the w hotel bar, and causing trouble, of course!

all sorts of nutella goodies at a local pizzeria (i freaked out, clearly)

exploring the streets of spanish harlem (they don't actually have the gaudy gold jewelry i expected)

my friend dion killin' it at rockwood music hall on a chilly saturday night

me, obviously excited, with the official apartment keys, in the apartment!

taxi accident. oops!

working hard wearing spanish harlem jewelry (that isn't even from spanish fucking harlem)

the view from our apartment window. facing south down 3rd avenue

a city sunrise on 34th street

excited about my red pants (and the massive closet in the apartment!)

city skyline from jersey - i get to look at this every morning

the evening view from the apartment

jess and i fooling around in fao schwartz on a bitter december night before christmas

myself with jess and her mom during an incredible evening with 2 of my favorite women

rockefeller center angels between the massive christmas tree and saks 5th avenue

ice skating at bryant park (no, i did not attempt this or the long line leading to it)

an incredible view of grand central station from park avenue during a moment of true happiness

back in akron for the holiday, yet my city still on my mind

the stockings hung from the family fireplace

mama and i on christmas eve, (very strong... almost lethal) blueberry martinis in tow!

mom and i on christmas eve always complimenting each other's outfits

matching jammies! on christmas eve (post martinis and red wine) i love my mom. so much.

greedy kitties on christmas morning getting into their stockings

one of my favorite meals - christmas breakfast! berries, french toast bake, and BACON!

christmas dinner: prime rib, mashed taters & gravy, corn, & brussels sprouts! (carrots not pictured, ew.)

making swenson's my bitch on the day after christmas (an akron MUST)

margaritas with friends that i miss so much!

grey ombre nails - they turned out pretty well!

I think along with outfit posts and other fashion-related things, I'm going to do a monthly photo update. What do you think?

new city, new name

2011-12-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

After many, many weeks of planning, moving my life hours away from Ohio to New York City, and finally allowing myself an hour of down time, I was able to update my beloved blog to the name it deserves, stylesarah.com!

That's right - Sarah's Laundry is now Style Sarah!

I apologize for the lack of posts over the past 2 months. I promise this blog is going to get bigger & better. Here's a little outfit I threw together for a family holiday party yesterday while I was visiting Ohio!

This sweater is my new favorite item in my closet - its from American Apparel and has gold lame threads woven through it. You can purchase it here!

Cardigan - American Apparel

Leggings - American Apparel

Top - Some boutique in SoHo

Scarf - Chinatown Street Vendor

Bag - Gabriel Brothers

Shoes - Steve Madden

to da burgh we go!

2011-12-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

Just a small photo diary of a day and evening spent in Pittsburgh with one of my best friends and our men last month!

We explored the strip (and of course, dined at Primanti Bros.), got some business done at Ikea, drank lots of wine with yummy hors d'oeuvres, taught Jess and Aaron Euchre, went out for late night margaritas, had one hell of an in-house dance party, and made a delicious breakfast. I can't ask for a better friend than Jess. She always shows us the best time in the Burgh!

My outfit:

Scarf & Grey Sweater: Filene's Basement
Leggings: Forever21
Quilted Jacket: H&M
Booties: Dillard's

an official week

2011-12-04T12:57:00.000-05:00

My first week of work living an official New York life - some small pieces documented.

Enjoy!

the end of a chapter

2011-11-28T20:20:00.000-05:00

ta ta, ohio!

I'm finally allowed to blog about New York City! I'm living in NYC and working in New Jersey - officially! These are the last of my Ohio photos for a while until I visit for Christmas. This was taken over the amazingly mild Thanksgiving weekend in Akron.

I layered two shirts that I found thrifting - and they are two of my most favorite thrift finds ever! The black and white top is my Jersey Shore top - I wore it in Atlantic City this summer tied up with the most gaudy gold jewelry and little denim daisy dukes. I guess you could say I played the part!

The yellow top is a simple silk blend tee. I paired them with some plain skinnies and purple & leopard loafers that I scored for less than thee bucks thrifting! The necklace is also thrifted. Glasses are Gucci.

an ode to 330

2011-11-26T15:28:00.000-05:00

After Lyndsey's amazing post as a beautiful farewell to me, I have to give a little something back to my 330 blogger girls. It'll be hard to find New York City bloggers as amazing as the ladies that I have gotten to know over the past year.

Over the past month I got to see a lot of my 330 bloggers - we went vintage & antique shopping in Cuyahoga Falls, saw the Taste of Vintage fashion show in Akron, and Lyndsey came to my farewell get together at Pub Bricco.

A special thanks to Lyndsey from A Lovely Little Blog for her flattering & humbling post.

Also to Jessica from Midwest Muse & Rachel from Distinct Style Innovation for hangin' with me the past few weeks.

Honorable mentions to other local lovelies Dina from Dina's Days, Renee from Oh Renee Design, & Stacey from Goodwill Huntingg.

eat, drink, & be merry

2011-11-24T22:25:00.000-05:00

I could not resist posting a few foodie photos from today's Thanksgiving festivities.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Its not Thanksgiving unless you feast on the classics!

Turkey, sweet potato casserole, stuffing (with spicy sausage), mashed potatoes, butterflake rolls, corn, & green beans.

summertime flashback

2011-11-21T07:18:00.000-05:00

Blonde hair, tan skin, & bright colors. Oh, how I miss thee.

Even though I'm sitting in the heart of the most amazing city in the world, sipping a skinny peppermint mocha on a bustling Monday morning, it never fails that my mind wonders back to warmer temperatures and incredible memories.

I will never forget the summer of 2011 for so many reasons, and if I could turn back time to any point of my life, it would be a simple four months. I want to relive this past summer forever! Luckily, I found a couple outfit photos from August that allowed me to revel in the memories of the best summer ever.

Can't you feel the warmth?

get your vintage on tonight

2011-11-17T08:15:00.000-05:00

Need something fashionable to do tonight for a good cause?

Come to the 6th Annual Taste or Vintage event!

TONIGHT!
Thursday, November 17, 2011 from 6-9 p.m.

Quaker Station, 135 S. Broadway Street, Akron

$50/person - RSVP at www.tasteofvintage.com or by calling 330-724-6995.

The press release states:

The event showcases live and silent auctions, tastings from some of the area’s finest restaurants and caterers, and a fashion show featuring garments from Goodwill’s Vintage Clothing Collection. “We have attended this event many times in the past and our daughter Naomi modeled for 4 years. This is a tremendously fun event and for an exceptional cause, especially in these times where Goodwill’s mission, to help people prepare for, find and retain jobs, is so critical.” This year’s event will include a special recognition ‘toast’ to Akron icon Russ Vernon for his long-standing service to Goodwill and the region.

Food samplings will be offered by a variety of restaurants and specialty businesses including: Akron Woman's City Club, Earth Fare, Festive Food Catering - Mature Services Inc., Great Harvest Bread Company, Hattie's Café & Bakery, House of Hunan (Fairlawn), Little City Caterers, Mobile Meals, Inc., Pearl Coffee Company, Robert J. - Events & Catering, Saffron Patch of Akron, The Stew Pot Kitchen, University Dining Services at The University of Akron, West Point Market, and West Side Bakery.

Samples of auction items include a Disney Dreams package (a seven-day stay in a private condo in Orlando, Florida – over spring break – April 7, 2012–April 14, 2012; with one-day park-hopper passes for four to Walt Disney World Theme Park); one carat total weight diamond pendant with necklace from Sterling Jewelers valued at $1,399; a one-night stay in the African Queen Suite at the Kalahari Resort in Sandusky, OH; and an official, autographed Brad Maynard Football from the Cleveland Browns.

See you there!

before you make your resolutions

2011-11-16T21:15:00.000-05:00

51 dresses under $50?
Ok, maybe there's 49 and a couple a littler over.

Holiday season is approaching, but more importantly, the task of finding your New Year's party dress is approaching! This is the one night of the year that you can really go all out on the glam-o-meter. Sequins? Rhinestones? Glitter? Check, check, and check! They're all a big thumbs up on this chilly night or any party that you attend.

Need help figuring out what you want to wear? Need a dress on the cheap? Here's 51 dresses that won't break your holiday budget for the most sparkly night of the year!! No, seriously. All of these dresses are under $50!

Karen Sequin Dress $49.90 - Alloy

Sequined Sweetheart Dress $27.80 - Forever 21

Sequin Stripes Dress $22.80 - Forever 21

2b Cameron Suede Dress $44.95 - Bebe

Twilight Ruffle Dress $49.50 - Delia's

Bobi Sparkle Stretch w/ Black Solid Modal Jersey Dress $48.00 - Revolve Clothing

Lace And Mesh Ruffle Dress $49.50 - Delia's

Go Get 'Em-erald Dress $47.99 - ModCloth

Belted Chiffon Lullaby Dress $26.99 - Charlotte Russe

Cupcake Decorating Party Dress $49.99 - ModCloth

Unbelievable Dress in Fuchsia $49.99 - ModCloth

Red Ruffle Dress $44.50 - Delia's

Angie One-Shoulder Dress $49.00 - Dillard's

Club L One Shoulder Cut Out Dress $39.53 - Asos

Vans - Switch Dress $44.50 - Zappos

Belted Foil Slub-Knit Dress $29.99 - Charlotte Russe

Make an Impression Dress in Cobalt $44.99 - ModCloth

2b Lurex Scoop Tank Sweater Dress $44.95 - Bebe

Sparkle & Fade Cold Shoulder Knit Dress $49.00 - Urban Outfitters

Starry Eyed Charmeuse Dress $28.99 - Charlotte Russe

Mykonos Windmill One Shoulder Burgundy Dress $46.00 - Lulu's

Milk Chocolate Magic One Shoulder Glitter Brown Dress $38.00 - Lulu's

Banquet Invitation Ivory and Bronze Dress $58.00 (okay, a little over $50!) - Lulu's

Status Lattice Black and Burgundy Dress $49.00 - Lulu's

Love 21 Cowl Neck Leopard Dress $22.80 - Forever 21

Lipstick Kiss A-Line Dress $28.99 - Charlotte Russe

Ginger Rogers Green Dress $39.00 - Lulu's

Pep-Plum Crazy Strapless Beige Dress $39.00 - Lulu's

Fashion Week Sea Green Dress $48.00 - Lulu's

Dance Remix Black Dress $39.00 - Lulu's

Rare One Shoulder Chiffon Dress $35.94 - Asos

Chance of Fate Alicia Lace Dress $44.90 - Alloy

Studded Bodycon Dress $22.80 - Forever 21

Cosmopolitan Fuchsia Pink Dress $37.00 - Lulu's

Sea Lion Saunter One Shoulder Grey Print Dress $33.00 - Lulu's

Living Lively Burgundy Dress $35.00 - Lulu's

Leo Meets Virgo Paulina Lace Dress $36.90 - Alloy

ANM Betsy Ruffle Dress $44.90 - Alloy

Jacquard Bodycon Dress Mesh Panels $22.80 - Forever 21

Ballerina Mesh Hook And Eye Dress $39.50 - Delia's

Lucca Couture Colorblock Bustier Cutout Dress $29.99 - Urban Outfitters

Metallic Pleats Dress $22.80 - Forever 21

Leatherette Skirt Dress $22.80 - Forever 21

Fille the Love Dress $47.99 - ModCloth

Cut Out Wrap Body-Conscious Dress $53.91 - Asos

One Shoulder Dress With Mesh Insert $32.35 - Asos

Body-Conscious Dress with Strap Back Detail $44.93 - Asos

Body-Conscious Dress With Cut Out Waist $44.93 - Asos

Ruffled One Shoulder Dress $24.90 - Forever 21

Rhinestone Bow Cinched Waist Dress $29.80 - Forever 21

Rhinestone Front Shift Dress $27.80 - Forever 21

Need help styling these sassy little dresses for your NYE soiree? Here's some key pieces of advice:

- There's no such thing as too much sparkle! Ok, if you're a smart dresser, you should know your limits. Chances are, you've got some sound judgement in you if you're reading a style blog. A dress that's covered in sequins? Totally awesome? That sequin covered dress paired with rhinestone embellished pumps, an over-sized rhinestone statement necklace & earrings, and some glitter eye shadow? Mayyyybe a little much. What I'm trying to say is, if you feel more sparkly than normal, that's great! If you're second guessing, ask a friend or two. They'll be honest (or they should be)!

- Don't have sparkle in your dress? Amp up your accessories! Wear a statement necklace (you can do earrings too if they pair well together). Get some awesome cuff bracelets. Wear some great shoes! Your dress doesn't have to be the showstopper for your New Year's outfit. Find another statement piece! Chances are you already have one of these in your jewelry box. Cheap costume jewelry is always available for Forever21, or try your local thrift store for some of the good gaudy stuff. Speaking of gaudy, layering tone of gold jewelry is all the rage in my closet, try it out! You probably own quite a few gold necklaces.

- Light is nice. Want to wear a nude dress or a white dress? Go for it! Just make sure you wear it right for December/January. Nix the bare legs and go for a black tight. Harden your look with black accessories. If you're questioning your look because you think it looks too summery, just add winter accessories. Think snow bunny! Black leather could e your best friend when looking for complimenting accessories.

- Can't buy a new dress? No problem! Re-work your wardrobe like you've never done before. Try layering a skirt over a dress, a top over a dress, or a super dressy top with a skirt! If you think they're too glam to pair together, they're probably OK for New Year's Eve. Think about pairing two plain, bright colored pieces together or a black on black. Give yourself a couple of hours to play dress-up. Keep your mind open. If I'm fresh out of outfit ideas, I always find something great with this approach.

What are your New Year's Eve outfit approaches?

Have you planned your outfit yet?

there's a party in my closet calling all skeletons

2011-11-15T20:59:00.000-05:00

I don't think I am ever going to get rid of this skirt! No matter where I go in this thing, it turns heads (and I think in a good way) because of how it flows! Little details like the weight and hand of the fabric to the exact number of pleats is what makes this skirt my absolute favorite piece currently in my wardrobe. I posted on this piece a couple weeks ago, and with this outfit, I made it more cold-weather friendly.

I paired this skirt with a baggy white tee, a fitted leather jacket, a big mustard yellow scarf (such a great color this season), black booties, and faux garter tights. Faux garter tights are such a fun trend - I think they bring just the right amount of sexy into some ensembles that regular tights just don't do. I'm also wearing my new favorite little piece of jewelry - my camera ring! Everybody knows that I have an obsession with photography (thus my longtime nickname - paparazzi) and I would just die for some really great photography lessons. I truly think life is just a little more beautiful through a lens because you're reaching out and looking for moments and things to appreciate. I always feel much more content with my camera in my hand!

Skirt: A boutique in Italy

Scarf: Target

Tee: Gabriel Brothers

Tights & Booties: Forever21

Ring: Lulu's

some fashion words for thought

2011-11-14T20:06:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard the fashion savvy speak words that are like a foreign language?

Here are a few pieces of vocabulary that might help you during your next stylin' conversation.

D'Orsay Pump

A d'orsay (you know, say it like door-say) style pump is a shoe in which the vamp of the shoe is cut away very close to the toe box, and the sides are cut away, revealing the arch of the foot.

Merry Widow

A merry widow is a corselet that was released by Warner's in 1955, named after The Merry Widow, a 1905 operetta that has been adapted several times into feature-length films. This new design featured demi-cups and a shorter girdle than its predecessors. This type of lingerie is also known as a torsolette, and is used in bridal lingerie, much like the bustier.

Raglan Sleeve

A raglan sleeve is a type of sleeve whose distinguishing characteristic is to extend in one piece fully to the collar, leaving a diagonal seam from underarm to collarbone. These sleeves are often shorter, usually half- or three quarter-length. A "raglan tee" might also be called a "baseball shirt."

Spectator Shoe

The spectator shoe is a style of low-heeled, oxford constructed from two contrasting colors, typically having the toe and heel cap and sometimes the lace panels in a darker color than the main body of the shoe. Common color combinations include a white shoe body with black, brown tan toe and heel caps, but other colors can be used. The saddle shoe, another style of two-tone oxford shoe, can be distinguished from the spectator shoe by noting the saddle shoe's plain toe and distinctive, saddle-shaped decorative panel placed mid foot.

Don't you feel smart?

one short night

2011-11-08T18:43:00.000-05:00

Maria Bonita, my infamous (and absolutely insane) alter ego, may be around a little more often. The dark hair really triggers Maria's appearances, and its also bringing out some more creativity in the outfit department.

The black tie is actually a sash belt that came with a dress from H&M, but it just makes the most perfect over-sized bow tie! I think I'd like to classify this outfit as edgy-nerdy, because of the preppy plaid & sweater and dark details of the leggings, bow tie, and newly darkened hair. Plus, any outfit is just a little better when you add my beloved nerdys!

Shirt: Thrifted

Sweater: Banana Republic (I stole this from my mom like, 5 years ago)

Leggings: Forever21

Booties: Steve Madden

Nerdys: JoAnn Fabrics (from a nerd Halloween costume set)

Bracelets: Forever21

Bow Tie: An H&M belt from a dress

dirty leaves fall for you & me

2011-11-03T18:14:00.000-04:00

I'm a super lucky girl.

My best friend is a phenomenal hairdresser and is always willing to help me out with her talents! When I told her I was thinking about phasing my hair into the ombre trend, she was all for it! Erica is the master that chopped my hair off when it was almost down to my waist, and has turned me from red to blonde to brown. My hair color and hair style is an evolving creature and rarely stays the same, but somehow, I always end up going back to blonde. I'm obsessed with this hair color and cut (yay to finally having my bangs back!) but family & friends are all taking bets on when I'll return to the blonde side.

I found this denim dress at the thrift store for $4 and was so excited when I spotted this gem -- not only is it from the Gap but just before my thrift trip I read an article on Refinery29 explaining that denim chambray shirts are so September and its time so move onto something a little longer for the colder seasons.

I also picked up an Abercrombie jean jacket for $6 that I'm hacking into a vest and a pretty little black top that I'll feature on here soon!

This is the first feature for my Steve Madden lace up booties - I have been drooling over Jeffrey Campbell booties with thick wooden heels for months upon months but could never cough up the cash while saving for the wedding. These were at Nordstrom for under $100 and are the perfect taupe to wear during any season!

Dress: Gap (via thrift store)

Boots: Steve Madden

Belt: Marc by Marc Jacobs

Earrings: Charlotte Russe

take the mistakes i haven't made yet

2011-11-02T18:19:00.002-04:00

This is probably my favorite travel outfit ever! It was so cozy yet fashion forward and warm! Jameson and I took a road trip to St. Louis for Halloween weekend (as posted here) which meant a gruelingly long drive through the Midwest. I'm not the best night driver (or fond of driving period) but after I stuck it out for 4 hours behind the wheel, I finally got to do what I really do best - sleep in the car! I have this uncanny ability to crash wherever I allow my body - in the car, on the train, on the subway, on the plane... I am a sleeping traveler and pretty thankful for that.

While traveling, layering is probably the most important aspect you should focus on while dressing. You never know what the temperature is going to be while you're on the plane or if your car-mate enjoys watching your lips turn purple from hypothermia... I kid, I kid. But when it comes down to it, I'm a big wimp when I encounter cold temperatures.

These types of pants were all over Italy when we traveled there in September. They're super light weight, soft as can be, and are crazy baggy and flowy. They also are banded with elastic at the waist and at the ankles. Sure, they are kind of a hybrid between scrubs and something Disney's Jasmine would wear, but I absolutely adore them. I got them at a flea market right outside of our hotel in Rome and wear them all the time now!

Instead of pairing the green pants with a harsh black, I went for a softer navy blue, and complimented both of those with grey. The cold snap that hit at the end of October forced me to bring out a heavier jacket as well, but nothing is more classic then a good camel. I love the silhouette of this jacket. Boxy and mod, great for lots of layers and still looking chic!

Pants: From a flea market in Rome, Italy

Sweater: Gabriel Brothers

Tee: Target

Scarf: Lanvin for H&M

Booties: Forever21

Jacket: Forever21

Sunglasses: Gucci

before the dark side

2011-11-01T21:57:00.000-04:00

Don't think you're going to get all the goodies just yet! I teased all of you on my personal twitter last night, so I'll post the dark hair photo on the Sarah's Laundry twitter tonight. I have a post or two with blonde hair before I turn you over to the dark side, though. Enjoy!

A perfect outfit for an evening of little errands around town. I love combining super feminine pieces with rough and edgy pieces. They are the perfect contradiction in my book.

Nerdy glasses: Urban Outfitters

Jacket: Target

Tunic: Club Couture

Scarf: Forever21

Boots: Gabriel Brothers

i'm sexy and i know it

2011-10-31T22:18:00.000-04:00

Ah, Halloween. Many think of candy, pumpkins, blood & gore. I could toss all of those out the window as long as I had my costume. I'm pretty proud of my costumes over the years; there are none that I fully regret. Young females take this holiday as the opportunity to dress as provocatively as they possibly can (while others take this holiday as the opportunity to act as provocatively as they possibly can), but as I've grown older, Halloween is less about being scandalous & more about gettin' silly with great friends.

Halloween costumes are no fun if they don't incorporate a lot of humor and a complete loss of shame. What fun is there in unoriginal mummies and zombies? Last year, some of my favorite people in the world started the tradition of doing a group theme of costumes. Marvel superheroes & villains were a hit last year, so we had to keep our reputation going and took on Disney.

We took on the city of St. Louis this past weekend, and not only did we rock it, but I'm pretty sure Disney is going to make a movie about us. Seriously.

Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Queen of Hearts, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, Belle, Cruella Deville, & Ariel!

Below are some costumes from the past - I think this is the first time I've really appreciated my past Facebook photo albums. Check 'em out!

College Freshman Year: Dorothy

College Sophomore Year: Troy Polamalu

College Junior Year: Red Bull & Sugarfree Red Bull

College Senior Year: Black Squirrel (Kent State's unofficial mascot)

College Senior Year II: Little Red Riding Ho(od)

First official year as an old grown-up: Lady Gaga (before the whole world was Lady Gaga)

Second official year as an old grown-up: The Joker (superheroes & villains)

If you're wondering about the title of this post, have no fear! There is an explanation. This happened to be the theme song for the incredible men in our group that wore their spandex, bikini tops, and tutu's with more pride than the mermaid with starfish pasties!

In case you haven't noticed...

these people are really, really incredible.

ombre obsession

2011-10-26T07:33:00.000-04:00

If the trend of ombre were a song, it would be the most overplayed tune over FM stereo waves in New York and LA. Luckily, its just hitting the radio in Ohio and I couldn't be more excited. Ombre is the same thing as shading, fading, or a gradient of colors (typically one shade of color) applied to anything and everything - such as textiles, food, decor, nails, and hair!

I've been dying to ombre myself the past few months but I don't think I'd like my wedding photos in 10 years of faded hair. This weekend, when we visit my best friend/soul mate/sister/other half (c'mon, Erica!) in St. Louis, she's doing the deed for me.

So, my sassy little readers, feast your eyes on the blonde locks on last time, cuz they're gone for the season! When it comes down to it, I'm always going to go back to blonde. I'm just fortunate because I want to try different colors & styles and feel that I can pull them off! I haven't seen many inspirational photos showcasing short ombre hair, so hopefully I can talk some of you into ombre, too!

Below are some ombre-inspired photos, all found while obsessing over Pinterest!

Of course, I had to jump to the gun and do some sort of ombre on myself, so I went for the purple ombre nails last weekend. What do you think?

don't turn out the lights

2011-10-24T21:57:00.000-04:00

This skirt has a funny story: I was in Italy last month and didn't plan on doing much shopping, but I was so intrigued by all of the boutiques that were imitating American culture that I had to browse. These shops had a plethora of American flags, skulls, and leather scattered throughout their collections. It was almost creepy.

I was sucked into one of these Florence boutiques and ended up loving most of their items - including slouchy cropped tee's, long cardigans, and asymmetrical skirts. While holding this little grey darling up, something revolutionary occurred: NKOTBSB came blasting on the store's speakers.

If you don't know, I'm crazy superstitious when it comes to timing of songs. I'm the kind of idiot that turns on the radio with a friend and says "This song is a sign of how our night is going to end up!". Sure, most nights don't end up like Katy Perry's 'Last Friday Night', but hey, there's always some fun when you read into silly signs.

Anyway, as 'Don't Turn Out The Lights' poured out of the speakers, I, without any shame, can tell you that I full out squealed, sang at the top of my lungs, may have cried a little, and proceeded to purchase my beloved NKOTBSB Italian skirt.

So there you have it! This lovely piece is isn't just a favorite of mine because of the backstory though, I really do love it on. The fabric is an amazing soft jersey knit that I could wrap around myself like a blanket, and when I walk, the fabric flows like I'm on a runway. I decided a few weekends ago to wear this skirt 2 different ways for 2 different events.

Outfit 1

Event: Dinner & Drinks out on the lake

Top: Forever21

Scarf & Flats: Target

Outfit 2

Event: Chili Party & Bonfire

Top: Gap

Scarf & Tights: Forever21

Belt: H&M

Boots: Vintage

How would you wear this skirt?

where did you go once the lights went black?

2011-10-19T07:10:00.000-04:00

Transitioning pieces from summer to fall can be super simple with a few layering additions. Though this task may seem easy, you must be quite choosy over the pieces that you want to wear during the autumn season. Color choices, like pastels and brights, should be narrowed down as well as some fabric choices, such as light cotton dresses and linens.

Luckily, some summer trends are phasing into fall seamlessly this year, like lace, leather, and baggy/cropped silhouettes. These trends are incredible for layering as well as giving your look texture and dimension! While applying your layering skills, make sure you keep your color palette simple and neutral.

Here's my example of a pretty fly summer to fall transition! I can't let go of my Club Couture lace shorts just yet - and I'm so excited that they pair so well with simple black tights to wear through winter!

Top: Forever21

Shorts: Club Couture

Scarf: Club Couture

Boots: Forever21

Bracelet: Vintage (this is actually a belt/necklace)

i've got a storey for you: storeyhorse vintage

2011-10-16T14:55:00.000-04:00

Everybody knows I have a deep love for vintage clothing, so there was no question that I was completely intrigued when I heard a former fashion school classmate had partnered up with a friend to start a vintage clothing line. The line, Storeyhorse Vintage, was started by Kelly Velikonya & Elizabeth Storey in early 2011 and has taken off like wildfire, especially after their website launched in August.

>> Don't miss the deal alert at the bottom of this post!

I was lucky enough to ask Kelly a few questions about SHV, how her education at fashion school has influenced her business, and some other fun facts. Check out this Q&A then peruse over to the adorable website for some vintage shopping!

What was the "light bulb" moment when you knew you wanted to sell vintage clothing?
Elizabeth and I decided one day to meet up for coffee and talk fashion. We had worked at a store in Beachwood a couple years back, but were not satisfied with the jobs we were in. We both wanted a creative outlet for ourselves. We tossed around a couple ideas that day over coffee but discovered we both had a love for vintage. That day we like to joke was 1-11-11. It was meant to be, and all the rest has been a work in progress for us.

Where do you shop for the vintage clothes that you put online?
We buy and look for our vintage in a bunch of locations. Thrift stores, consignment shops, estate sales, vintage stores, as well as by networking with people we know that might know someone cleaning out their closets per say.

What do you believe is the hardest thing about owning a business?
We could have never imagined the amount of time and effort that went into starting our own business. It is one of those things you dive into head first and roll with the punches. We both have full time jobs so its all been about time management and discipline being able to build this business and reach deadlines. We both have very different personalities and work habits as well, so being able to establish a workable partnership and to stay focused is also a challenge for us both.

Was it difficult turning an idea into reality?
Thankfully we were blessed with many professional relationships we were able to network with in order for us to build our business. The difficulty we feel is that you can not predict the course you business is going to take. Things happen and you have to find solutions that are timely and beneficial to the growth of the business.

Are you carried anywhere other than your website?
We are currently being sold exclusively on our website, but are looking into local boutiques to showcase our jewelry in cleveland.

How do you feel that your education at Kent has helped you with starting a business in fashion?
My eduction at Kent has significantly benefited my ability to contribute to the business. I have noticed that I am using a lot of the skills I learned in fashion school especially in classes such as Buying and Marketing to start my business. I finally feel that I am utilizing my degree and it complements nicely with Elizabeths PR and Marketing degree from Dayton.

Is there anything you wish you had done in school to help you prepare for starting a business?
I honestly feel that I got the most out of my college experience. I took advantage of every opportunity I had available through the fashion school. I feel you can never truly prepare yourself, but its very important that you keep seeking advice through the process.

Are you ever tempted to keep your vintage finds for yourself?
I can speak for us both when I say YES! We find quite frequently that we want to keep so many fabulous finds for ourselves. We have a weakness for designer hand bags. After collecting a variety of different product we end up parting with our items so our customers can enjoy the amazing diamonds in the rough we found!

Who are your favorite designers?
Kelly: Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Stella Mccartney, Chanel
Elizabeth: Chanel, Burberry, Dior, YSL

What was your most exciting vintage find so far?
The most exciting would have to be a vintage Chanel bag at the thrift store just waiting there to be rescued! We found her a great home instantly. Finds like that don't stay for sale that long!

What has been your biggest challenge so far?
I touched on this briefly earlier but I feel for us the biggest challenge is finding the time to dedicate our business around our jobs. We can not wait to make Storeyhorse our full time job. Hopefully it is sooner rather than later.

What was your most fulfilling moment?
The most fulfilling moment thus far is finishing the website and seeing all of our hard work come together. We celebrated with our close friends and family at a launch party for our site. It was an overall feeling of accomplishment that we turned our idea into a reality, and also all the feedback we have been receiving is a blessing.

Do you plan on keeping Storeyhorse Vintage in Cleveland?
Our goal for Storeyhorse is to grow internationally - being web based - however, we would like to travel outside of Cleveland around the country to collect more merchandise for the site.

Here are some of my favorite pieces that I saw on the Storeyhorse Vintage website:

Do You Wanna Americana Sweater - $50

Vintage Victorian Blouse - $24

Faux and Fabulous Fur Stole - $30

Te Llamo Black Ferragamo Bag - $200

More of Floral Pants - $20

Subtly Silver Cropped Tapestry Jacket - $60

For 20% off your entire Storeyhorse Vintage online order,

enter the promo code "BLOG20OFF"!

Deals like this don't come around often with gorgeous vintage pieces!

no autographs, please

2011-10-13T22:27:00.001-04:00

I totally forgot about an experience I went through last summer until my friend (and 'cast mate') Marissa sent me a pleasant little surprise this week! I played an extra for a movie that was shot in Pittsburgh last summer that featured Taylor Lautner (OMG, Twilight! Jacob! You can scream now.) and she sent me a message of the video clip - the scene we were a part of!

We were filmed in a pool party scene that took hours & hours to shoot, only to see that it was about 2-3 minutes of actual movie time. We played with squirt guns, bubbles, plastic cups filled with "beer", and other pool goodies. Plus, we got to play drunk. How great is that? Either way, out of the hundreds of extras casted and shot, Marissa and I made the cut and are in the actual film!

You weren't allowed to talk to, look at, or make any suspicious moves towards Taylor. He seemed super nice (and is just as sexy in person, although short) but security was crazy high. Fans camped out overnight for weeks on end hoping for a glimpse of the teen heartthrob. Ok, I may have been guilty for a couple stalking stints. Can you blame me?!

The movie is called "Abduction", and its out right now!

Though the movie can't be posted online, you should go see it in theaters!

P.S. Although Marissa and I argue about who he was really looking at, I promise Tay Tay checked me out. Oh, yes.

she got the medicine that everybody wants

2011-10-12T17:46:00.001-04:00

I love me some leopard. I've always given this sexy print the credit it deserves - deeming it a timeless go-to print like stripes and polka dots. Last week, the corporate God gave us permission to wear jeans to the office everyday if we donated $5 to the American Heart Association. It was like a 9-5 recess! While some Ohioans take this as an excuse to wear crew neck college football sweatshirts and chunky white tennies, I tried to keep it classy, corporate, and of course, trendy.

These high waisted wide leg jeans are actually H&M trousers, and you can purchase them with a corresponding blazer if you'd like. I love this denim trend, but I have to be careful what I wear it with since I'm short & thick on the bottom. Wide leg denim should also be avoided when its raining or snowing or your attempt at trendy will go super sour with wet slacks! What do you think of this silhouette?

i've got passion and a reason

2011-10-10T17:29:00.001-04:00

Sometimes goofing off on a gloomy day is all you need! We were moseying around Akron looking for a place to insert a chalkboard into our frame (oh, wedding errands were glorious) on a chilly Saturday.

I threw on some edgy ankle booties and my favorite scarf in the world (from Club Couture) along with gold earrings that are very dear to my heart.

These 3 pieces made an otherwise average outfit a little more fun!

Scarf: Club Couture

Boots & Bag: Gabriel Brothers

Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft

Jeans: Forever21

Top: Vinatge

Earrings: Forever21

Don't forget that through this Wednesday, October 12th, you can get
15% off your entire order at Lulus.com but using the promo code
SARAHSLAUNDRY
(keep your caps lock on!)

Have you "liked" Sarah's Laundry on Facebook yet?

lusting for lulu's: fall must-haves

2011-10-09T12:11:00.000-04:00

There are a few websites that I check everyday to see what new looks they have come out with. I not only check for trends for this blog, but for myself as well (c'mon, we all know I have a shopping problem). Lulu's always has great new looks - I am especially fond of their dresses and shoe selection - at fantastic prices. I find the same exact pieces on sites like Urban Outfitters for prices that are almost 20% higher! I think the answer is obvious as to why I like to shop at Lulu's. Adorable trendy items at really amazing prices? Can't really beat it.

So I got completely sucked into Lulu's the other day when I was looking for a good pair of black riding boots. Not only did I find those, but pretty much my entire fall wardrobe as well. Check out my favorite Lulu's items below!

Want some Lulu's for yourself?

Whether you like my picks or want to pick some sassy pieces on your own, you'll get a fab discount just for reading Sarah's Laundry!
Upon your checkout, enter the SARAHSLAUNDRY (case sensitive) promo code for an amazing 15% off your total purchase!

The promo code is only valid October 9-12, so shop away and pass on the good news!

Volcom Paper Moon Burgundy Pants: $59.50

Olive the Lights Sequin Mini Skirt: $20

Fascination Street Gold Sequin Shorts: $55

Lovey Dovey Coral Pink Dress: $82

Cloudburst Stripe Dress: $39

Rubber Ducky Under the Sea-quin Teal Sequin Dress: $71

Michael Antonio Garcelle Wine Red Velvet Cutout Platform Wedges: $89

Chelsea Crew Sanya Grey Leather Tassel Oxford Flats: $77

GC Shoes Zack Black Studded OTK Riding Boots: $81

Collective Concepts Golden Globe Yellow Top: $49

Fire Lily Burnt Orange Coat: $99

Splash of Class White Tuxedo Blazer: $55

P.S. Have you "liked" Sarah's Laundry on Facebook yet?

i'm gonna love you like i'm indestructible

2011-09-27T20:34:00.000-04:00

Ok, ok. I know I'm super late on this. That may or may not be the story of my recent blogging life. I think I have a good excuse for my lack of posting (you know, getting married and then going on my honeymoon) ..don't you think?

Regardless, this post has been waiting for it's publishing day for a very long time! I wore this outfit and took these photos in mid-August. It was a chilly day for that month in Ohio, and many people were excited about breaking out their boots, including myself! I couldn't help but to be inspired by the excitement of others.

This early fall time of year is perfect because you can mix and match so many different pieces from different seasons. I wore a dress that doesn't make the outfit cut past October, and I paired it with a chunky gray sweater, tan boots, and gray thigh high stockings.

Dress: Target.

Sweater & Boots: Forever21.

Stockings: Charlotte Russe.

Watch: Michael Kors.

Belt: Old Navy.

Earrings: Forever21.

reader request: the perfect purple dress

2011-09-26T15:53:00.000-04:00

Julie, A lovely follower of Sarah's Laundry on Twitter, asked a question about what she should wear to a wedding - this is a problem that many people have!

She actually had her options narrowed down, but didn't know where to start shopping-wise. She wanted a purple dress, and didn't want to spend a lot of money. When looking for something specific in a certain price range, I have a no-fail way of finding what I'm looking for. I don't know what my life would be like without my iPhone and the ShopStyle App. It allows you to search for specific items (such as a dress), then asks you to narrow down your options within specific areas. Need a purple dress under $100? No problem - thousands of results appear!

I looked through all of the results and picked the most fashionable & wedding appropriate dresses. Depending on the formality of the wedding, Julie can narrow down her choices even further.

James & Joy Jules Smock Dress - Revolve Clothing - $70

Zadie Dress - J.Crew - $50

One-Shoulder Bow Dress - Delia's - $40

One-Shoulder Ruffle Dress - Express - $98

One-shoulder Dress - Victoria's Secret - $80

Blakely Dress - J.Crew - $100

Ruffle Zipper Dress - Victoria's Secret - $80

Allover Rosette Strapless Dress - Bebe - $60

Leighton Dress - J.Crew - $70

Xscape One-Shoulder Chiffon Dress - Dillard's - $84

Rare Pleat Layered One Shoulder Body-Conscious Dress - Asos - $42

Alexia Admor One Shoulder Taffeta Dress - Nordstrom - $89

Cyndee Dress - J.Crew - $80

Rebecca Taylor Berry Surprise Dress (to rent) - Rent The Runway - $50

Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Ruffle Trim Crêpe de Chine Dress - Nordstrom - $60

I hope you find the one, Julie!

P.S. If you don't have an iPhone or the patience to look through all of the ShopStyle results, just shoot me a reader request through e-mail atsarahslaundry@gmail.com or tweet me @sarahslaundry - I'd be happy to help!

nyfw favorites: abbey thompson

2011-09-13T10:51:00.000-04:00

Abbey here! Can I first just say how honored I am that Sarah asked me to guest blog on Sarah's Laundry!

Sarah and I first bonded over our love for NYC, but shortly discovered that we are both obsessed with fashion. Just like most, I have been anxiously awaiting for Fashion Week, and instead of my fingers finding Twitter/Facebook on my iPhone, style.com has been on constant refresh mode.

My favorite collection thus far has been United Bamboo. Being that I just graduated from college in May, and have recently entered Corporate America, I have been having such a hard time staying in the lines of our harsh dress code. What attracted me most to this collection was the fact that every piece could be worn to the office, as well as happy hour, and won't have me looking like I'm 40. And at the budget I'm living at these days, this fact alone is SO important!

About Abbey:

I recently just graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College with my degree in public relations, and marketing. I currently work as a marketing assistant for a company located in Cleveland, Blue Technologies. Blue Technologies is a provider of document management and document hardware solutions – I know, it sounds horribly boring, but my job is actually really interesting and fun! I also serve as a Guest Service Associate at Bonefish Grill restaurant, located in Independence.

When asked why I love fashion, I always answer: style. My favorite part of fashion is pairing my old clothes with my new ones, and making my own trends. In my opinion, you can have the most fashion forward outfit on, but it’s the way you style it that truly makes it fashionable.

“Fashions fade, style is eternal.” – Yves St Laurent

fno - ohio style

2011-09-10T09:53:00.000-04:00

Fashion's Night Out is a worldwide phenomenon, and Cleveland & Akron are taking their piece of the pie. This past Thursday, September 8th, some local retailers put on their party dresses and hosted some pretty rad events.

First, I went to Saks Fifth Avenue at Beachwood Place. Mai Moore, the director of Marketing at this location, has been so supportive of the area's local bloggers. Mai & Positively Cleveland hosted a blogger lounge where our group met, enjoyed Moet champagne, chocolate covered goodies, cheeses, veggies, and gift bags! I absolutely love socializing with the bloggers of Northeast Ohio. We're all so different, but have a special bond over our love for blogging and connecting others with fashion.

The Saks event was fantastic! Some highlights were the amazing hors d'oeuvres, the on-screen Burberry fashion show, fashion trivia (I won club level Browns tickets for my fiance!), the music throughout the store, a chocolate fountain, and of course, the amazing staff at Saks. Everybody was clearly very excited for the event and the good vibes were contagious! I found some items that I must have for fall - I didn't want to leave!

Next, we traveled to Cuyahoga Falls where Noto & MC Hair Studio hosted their event. I was stunned when I walked in, the venue was absolutely packed! The energy was unreal, and everybody was young, hip, and beautiful. I felt like I was in the heart of SoHo enjoying Fashion's Night Out. There were all different rooms & nooks - every time you turned a corner, it was packed with more people. The food at this event was delicious as well, a great selection of Noto clothing was available for purchase, and MC gave everybody an amazing Bumble & Bumble gift (so stoked about that!).

I believe my favorite part of the night was at the Noto/MC event. It was a little personal for me, but there was a large screen playing a video of the Noto fashion show that was held back in June. Before I knew it, my own vintage clothing line was on large screen display! It was a pretty great moment, I'm not gonna lie!

I'm already so excited for FNO next year. Thank you so much to the lovely people at Saks, Noto, & MC Hair for hosting us with such gratitude!

Lovely bloggers in this article:

Lyndsey from A Lovely Little Blog

Jessica from Dresses for Dinner

Rachel from Distinct Style Innovation

Stacey from Goodwill Huntingg

Special thanks to:

Lauren Ward at Noto

The ladies at MC Hair Studio

Mai Moore at Saks Beachwood

The ladies at Positively Cleveland

fashion’s night out isn’t just for new york

2011-09-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

What’s up, Ohio?!

I may be departing for a long weekend in the most wonderful city on earth (hello, New York!), but I won’t be staying for the infamous Fashion’s Night Out there on September 8^th. While my corporate job and wedding plans have tied me in Ohio during these events, I’m not stressing out because there’s a ton to do for FNO right here in the Akron/Cleveland area! The area’s fashion elite will be busy bees next Thursday, September 8^th, for Fashion’s Night Out.

There are a few events that I’m super excited about! First, there is the exclusive event that Saks is Beachwood is holding. The event is from 6-9pm on the 8^th.

Corinne from Positively Cleveland explains, “The night includes a Burberry Fall fashion show on a large screen, live music, a photo area, fashion treasure hunt, department games & presentation, tons of giveaways including hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, cosmetics and the chance to win a $500 Saks Gift Card and tons more! 10% of the evening’s sales will benefit the Aids Taskforce of Greater Cleveland. Light snacks and drinks will be provided and dress is dressy casual”.

Plus, there’s a blogger area where you can meet all of the local fashion gurus! You can find me there around the beginning of the event, so come say hello! The cost is nothing (you will pay $50 and receive a $50 Saks gift card in exchange to enter).

Next, I’ll venture back down to the AK for a fantastic event held by Lauren from NOTO and MC Hair Studio. I love going to events for NOTO because they’re always fun, laid back, and tasteful! I know this will be such a wonderful event to attend.

The exclusive invite says: “Join Cuyahoga Falls' M.C. Hair Consultants & studio mc in partnership with Akron's NOTO Boutique for an event celebrating New York Fashion Week and it's impact on individuals worldwide and locally! Experience personalized consultations with Bumble & bumble, shop NOTO’s closet, and enjoy appetizers, drinks, music, dancing and old-fashioned treats from Arnold’s Candies of Akron! Proceeds from the event will benefit ACCESS Women's Shelter in Akron”.

Many of the Akron area bloggers will be out and about here because of our support for NOTO – it’s one of our favorite Akron boutiques! The event will be held from 8-11pm at studio mc located at 940 Portage Trail. Stop by and check it out!
Visit the Facebook event HERE

Other events going on for FNO are listed here:
SHOP HOP NEO

Receive exclusive discounts September 9th-16th

Get your shopping pass at www.ShopHopNEO.com
Visit the Facebook event HERE

Some participating retailers include:

Banyan Tree

www.ShopBanyanTree.com

Black Orchid Accessories & More

www.theblackorchidaccessories.com

Brigade

www.ClothingBrigade.com

Crazy Mullets

www.CrazyMullets.com

Dredgers Union

www.DredgersUnion.com

Evie Lou

www.EvieLou.com

Little Monogram Shop

www.LittleMonogramShop.com

Lizzy & Jane

www.LizzyandJane.com

Melanie White

www.MelanieWhiteDesigns.com

www.RuleofNext.com

Nicky Nicole

www.NickyNicole.com

The Powder Room

www.ThePowderRoomBoutique.com

Sanity

www.SanityStyle.com

Sugar Footwear

www.SugarFootwear.biz

i could stick around and get along with you

2011-08-29T23:03:00.000-04:00

Odd combinations are my favorite! I woke up on a particular morning feeling the need to look cute at work - the layering of this outfit just happened. Nothing really goes together, which makes this outfit so interesting and perfect!

Good thing I was happy with my look because my amazing co-workers held a surprise wedding shower for me! Even with my outgoing personality, its super hard to be the center of attention in those types of situations. I've come to realize I really don't like opening gifts in front of people - its so awkward! Especially when you open a gift of shot glasses at a pretty conservative office (haha.. oops!!).

These boots are so much fun to wear, I found them a few years ago at the thrift store and I'll never give them up! I paired them with an H&M dress that I bought for a wedding last year, a Forever21 sweater (I love the color & texture), and a thrifted Liz Claiborne belt. The watch is Michael Kors.

I think I need to go for a combination like this again!

to pack, or not to pack... that is the question

2011-08-28T18:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday, lovely readers! I have quite the surprise for you -- a video post!

In the midst of packing my life & apartment away, I had to find time to pack for my own bachelorette party this coming weekend. I rarely forget anything when I pack and I believe that is because I have a pretty good system down. My video includes some tips that I find are the most important when it comes to packing, whether you're going on a weekend trip or a 2 week excursion.

Please leave comments of your own packing tips - I would love to see them!

Enjoy!

Here is a preview of some of the items I'm packing for the city -- watch out

for the full outfits in upcoming posts after the trip (if I make it out alive)!

a little shopping motivation: nasty gal

2011-08-25T22:11:00.002-04:00

I am literally drooling over all of the new merch rolling into shopnastygal.com!

Their clothing & accessories are always amazing, but their combination of leopard print, bright colors, and flowy fabrics (in a sexy, tasteful way) have got me on the verge of my seat! I could literally spend my entire savings account on a new Nasty Gal wardrobe.

Here's why:

To shop these looks, just click here!

Buy me something while you're at it!

she was made to blow you away

2011-08-24T20:18:00.000-04:00

I honestly take pride in being a nerd.

Sure, I can dress up and look sexy, but there's a certain pride that I have in being a big-giant-huge-smart-dork. I'm not quite sure if I was smart on this particular day, but I sure felt like it in my "nerdy's". Typically, I take whip these suckas out at the bars and make everybody wear them for a photo (I could make the most lovely collage), but my fiance also loves when I rock these on a random day.

I remember the day I bought my nerdy glasses. In March 2009, I was visiting my amazing sister in San Fran and I was on a serious mission to find glasses just like these. We walked all around town, and any little eclectic boutique that looked like a candidate for fake reading glasses was entered and searched. Finally, our last stop was Urban Outfitters.

Bazing!!

Jackpot.

Eleven dollars.

Sold!

One time, I tried to wear these when my hair was curly (or bat shit crazy) and I ended up being a fantastic double of Garth from Wayne's World - let's just say the straight hair is the best look for my nerdy's. Either way, I love the way these feel, and if nerdy can combine with sexy, I'd be the first one trying to pull it off.

Nerdy Glasses: Urban Outfitters.

Top: Thrifted.

Bottoms & Belt: Old Navy.

Earrings: Forever21.

Shoes: Gabe's.

What's up with the post title?

...ain't nothin' wrong with a little AK pride ;)

here comes that familiar feeling that friday's famous for

2011-08-23T12:47:00.000-04:00

This post is supposed to be about this past weekend, but I have to give a special honorable mention to last Wednesday.

If there is something I really, REALLY love about blogging, its the network of lovely local ladies that I have met over the past few months. All of us got together this past Wednesday for a thrifting extravaganza at Goodwill followed by dinner at The Lockview in Akron. You can see it in this photo - all of us have such different style! Everybody has their own look and I love that we all appreciate each other's differences and even get ideas! All of these ladies are so inspiring, I can't even explain!

Our clique of local bloggers from left to right: Myself, Lauren from Someone Like You, Lyndsey from A Lovely Little Blog, Renee from Oh Renee Design, Stacey from Goodwill Huntingg, Anna & Jessica from Dresses For Dinner, and Rachel from Distinct Style Innovation.

Phew, onto the weekend! I feel such a sense of relief and freedom when I get into my car after work on Fridays. I turn my music up, roll the windows down (even in the rain) and just enjoy the feeling of the corporate handcuffs coming off of my wrists.

This past Friday night, I had plans with my parents. If you don't know my parents, don't judge! If you do know my parents, you know that I was in for a crazy night. I love going out with my parents. They're incredible people and so much freaking fun! They also have the most amazing friends.

We went to The Boulevard in The Falls for dinner (heyo, fish fry Friday!) followed by Rockin' on the River. My mom and I's obsession with Bon Jovi was satisfied when their official cover band came on stage. Unfortunately, the lead singer is a bit of a creeper and I had to stand near the back of the crowd (don't even say it Erica - well you HAD to have that Bad Medicine tank top!). I had the best time with my parents. Plus, Rockin' on the River has a rep of not-so-well-dressed people, so I wore whatever the hell I wanted. Yes, I took an iPhone mirror photo. Gotta prollem?

Saturday, my mom and I ran wedding errands ALL. DAY. LONG. The 4 week mark came & went just like that, but we stalked some weddings at our event spaces and our amazing photographer took me to the most lovely photography store, Aperture, in Tremont. I got some film for the Polaroid camera I scored at the thrift store.

I'm a little ashamed of how I spent my Saturday night... well, no, I'm not. I Skyped with my other half until who knows what time - as we enjoyed a couple drinks together and talked until we fell asleep. I miss Erica so incredibly much! We've both been through emotional roller coasters these past couple weeks and she's been my glue.

Ok, I lied. We talked until I passed out.

I spent my Sunday bumming around until I was forced to leave the apartment by the smell of the filet on my parents' grill (figuratively, of course). There is nobody on this side of the Mississippi that can grill a steak like my father.

I enjoyed dinner with my parents, then I cleared a bunch of my old junk out of their basement - I found the skirt I wore on my 17th birthday and the multiple pairs of Nike forces I insisted on wearing in high school. I also found my sketch book from middle school, some incredible clothes I thrifted back in the day (and never even took the tags off of), and photos from my adolescence that I'll forever cherish. It was a good night to reminisce. I realized that I have a childhood that I should be super thankful for.

Plus, I got to see my kitty, Grady ...the best cat ever.

When I think about my weekend, I didn't surround myself with many people, but it was so wonderful to be able to spend so much time with my family.

Here's to next weekend!

runnin' down a dream

2011-08-22T18:41:00.002-04:00

We were on our way home the morning after a wedding (somehow I wasn't hungover) and decided to take advantage of the middle-of-nowhere-ness down in Coshocton, Ohio. I was actually pretty stoked about these photos because the outfit really tied into the atmosphere! The deserted town, gloomy weather, & smog from the factory made you feel like you were breaking the rules no matter what you were doing.

I am obsessed with doing a cinched waistline & red lip and going for a pinup girl vibe. It makes me feel feminine & flirtacious no matter what I'm doing.

You can take a wild guess...

I know you won't believe it, but...

The dress, belt, and shoes were all scored at Forever21 on separate shopping sprees.

five days laced in leopard

2011-08-20T09:19:00.002-04:00

Many fashion philosophers claim that just as black, white, and red are staple colors, leopard is a staple print. A little more fierce than the polka dot or horizontal stripe, leopard print brings out something in a woman that other prints cannot. This print is sexy, primal, and most important, timeless.

I woke up last Monday morning feeling tired and drab. I needed something exciting to wear, because like most women, an outfit can change your attitude entirely! What better print to choose to spruce up my Monday blues than a sexy leopard? It most definitely did the trick.

Bopping around in my leopard print pencil skirt, yellow silk-blend top, and layered gold chains, I felt like I was testing time and dancing on the edge of Friday. Monday whizzed by, and before I knew it, I was waking up on Tuesday morning with my eyes half-open tripping over my cats and running into doors. It was then that I had my lightbulb moment - why not dress in leopard this entire week? Aha! I felt great on Monday because I wore this print, why not challenge myself to it everyday?

Sure, there are many other factors that can alter your emotions throughout a day and especially throughout a week, but I can't tell you that this challenge didn't give me some serious mood boosters. A touch, splash, or dash of leopard print was added to every outfit I wore to work last week!

Monday:

Skirt - Forever21.
Top - Thrifted.
Shoes - Target.
Chains - Passed down from my Grandmother.

Tuesday:

Entire Outfit: Forever21.

Wednesday:

Top: Nordstrom Rack.
Pants: Old Navy.
Flats: Birthday gift from Danielle (we have a leopard flat obsession!).

Thursday:

Top & Flats: Forever21.
Pants: Old Navy.
Jacket: H&M.

Shades: Gabe's.

Friday:

Top: Some boutique in SoHo.
Jeans: Express.
Booties: Bebe.
Earrings: Forever21 (Thanks for leaving these here, Erica!).

it girl: melody mills

2011-08-18T20:58:00.000-04:00

Melody Mills has had obvious star power since elementary school. I remember how everybody would talk about how she was on a “real” cheerleading team that won national competitions, and when she joined the school team, it was like a celebrity was joining them. Melody’s serious amount of talent at a young age allowed everybody to have a common thought about her: Melody was going to do big things.

Melody and I have always a relationship of joking around and laughing all the time, but her success has been so inspiring to me that I enjoy talking to her now more than ever. If there is something that Melody has turned into (other than becoming even more talented), she has become so inspiring and wise. She always has something optimistic and motivating to say!

If you didn’t know who Melody Mills was before, you’re about to now!

Your Name: Melody Mills
Where you're from: Akron, Ohio
Where you live now: New York, New York

Where you went to school & what you studied: I was blessed enough to begin working professionally right out of high school. As a dancer/singer/actress and choreographer, I am constantly learning from my mentors and peers… so it is a bit like school.

What you're doing now: I have just finished my fourth season with the New Jersey Nets dancers. This fall, I will be going on a national tour with Bring It On: The Musical.

Your interests: Dancing, singing, acting, fashion, freestyle rapping, man-eating :)

A fun fact: I am usually known as the rebel of the group!

What are your favorite fashion trends right now?
Well, I’m into a bunch of different styles and looks. Lately I can't stay away from edgy accessories and bows.

If you could eliminate any trend (or trends) from the face of the earth right now, what would they be? I could never get into socks with open toe sandals or heels, but hey, who am I to judge? If they like, it I love it!

Who is your celebrity style crush? Gwen Stefani or Rihanna.

How did you get started in your industry? Right after high school my mom made me audition for the Cleveland Cavalier Girls. That was my first professional gig.

What did you do to take the big "leap" from Ohio to New York? I had a very motivating phone conversation with my sister one night during the time of the NBA finals. I told her I was still missing something and I wanted to be challenged. She suggested I move in with her, and literally less than a week later I flew to Jersey. I auditioned for the New Jersey Nets that weekend and when I made it, I had to go back home and get my things.

What advice would you give others that want to follow their dreams and leave Ohio? There is a reason you have the dreams you do, so never doubt yourself or your strength. Have faith not fear and you will succeed. And when you get there don’t tip toe... Sumo stomp!

How would you describe success? I believe success is about the journey. Yes, getting from your current Point A to your desired Point B is an accomplishment, but the success comes from what happens in between.

Why do you love Akron? Being around the craziness of NYC, I appreciate the calm moments in Akron. It’s so residential and I always see a bunch of families out. Plus, my mommy is in Akron! Also, you can't get Swenson’s and Krispy Kreme doughnuts everywhere. :)

If you could offer one piece of advice to anybody, what would it be? Keep God first. He will be the one you will always need!

Want to see more of Melody?
Subscribe to Melody’s YouTube page at www.youtube.com/msmelody100
Follow Melody on Twitter @MsMelodyMills