Most Rentable: Classic Cinema-GONE WITH THE WIND

Remember {here.} how I'm working my way down the AFI Top 100 Classic Films of all time?  Well, this week's selection was GONE WITH THE WIND.  I am in love with this movie!  I had never seen it before, and whenever I suggested it, everyone would squeal, "It's too long!"  It is long, but so very gratifying.  I loved the artistry of the cinematography.  The top picture is an example of how they played with silhouette and vibrant colors.  Breathtakingly romantic.  And the acting was top notch; standing the course of time.  Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, and Hattie McDaniel were born to play those roles.  For those of you who appreciate costuming, you'll go bananas over Scarlett's hats and dresses.  History buffs will salivate over a neutral take on the American Civil War, leaving the viewers to decide which cause was right.  



****Side note, upon completion of the film I woke up my husband at 2:20am and whispered, "That was one of the most important, beautiful films I've ever seen!"  To which he replied,"Okay," rolling over to resume his slumber.

Hot Chocolate Break.

Go ahead, sit down.  Enjoy a virtual cup of hot chocolate with me.  I have some exciting nougats to share.  

1. The graphic designer that achieved my dream website {here.} has agreed to give The Infinite Madness a face lift!  I am smiling ear-to-ear about this process.  Last night I sent him my inspiration to build a smarter, sleeker space.  I'll keep you posted.


2. One of my "What I wore Wednesday" looks was featured in a fabulous fashion blog "Look 10" from Spain.  Take a peek at the post {here.} Muchas gracias Vicen!


3. My top secret acting project is really taking shape.  My most trusted, valued colleague has given my script the green light.  I can't wait to share additional information on this close-to-my-heart project during the pre-production phase!  I want you to be a part of the entire process with me.  

I hope that YOU are making your dreams come true this year.  This is our year.  Make it happen for yourself.  Throw that party you've always wanted to throw.  Color your hair that vibrant, pretty color.  Become the ideal version of yourself!

Style Watch: flood pants/pop of color socks/penny loafers.

While Bunnie and I were enjoying a tasty bruncheon date today {not a luncheon, a bruncheon} I noted some fantastic, fashion flair that should be emulated; flood pants, paired with colorful trouser socks, and penny loafers.  This young pup was romancing nerd chic.  I enjoy a man that takes a bold risk in fashion.  What do you think?

What I Wore Wednesday: Free Shoes.

Last Saturday I went to a store opening for the new Forever 21 in Sherman Oaks.  Rachel and I arrived extra early to ensure that we received coveted prizes.  I won a gift card worth $50.00!  I used part of my gift card towards some amazing oxfords that are an homage to my childhood golf shoes.  I was an awesome golfer as a child.  Then I Benjamin Buttoned into a tragically, terrible player.  Today's ingredients:

1. Polka Blouse:  $22.00 H&M


2. Sage Pencil Skirt:  $19.99 Tulle


3. Waist Belt:  $1.99 Thrifted


4. Tights:  $22.00 Danskin


5. Arnold Palmer Oxfords:  $0.00 Forever 21


6. Manuscript Carry-All:  $31.00 Urban Outfitters

What I Wore Wednesday: My Version of a Juicy Velor Sweat Suit.

Happy Fall!  It has officially begun.  Today I'm working a double shift.  I intend on poking around town when I'm off the clock.  My outfit needs to be comfortable, yet put together.  

Ingredients: 

Grey Jacket:  H&M

Creme Sweater:  Husband's

Black Scarf:  Husband's

Black Jeans:  Urban Outfitters 

Defunct Boots: Steve Madden

Culture Club: Music Festival.

Here's a couple more pictures from the FYF Music Fest.  What are hipsters wearing to outdoor concert festivals these days?

1. cutoff shorts rolled up to butt cheeks


2. vintage summer dresses, belted, with boots


3. see number 1, add a black, lace bustier


4. cowboy boots


5. oxfords


6. head to toe black


7. suspenders


8. guys wearing flood chick pants


9. lace up nineties boots


10. lipstick, it's making a come back

Most Rentable: SEPTEMBER ISSUE.

SEPTEMBER ISSUE, a documentary that every fashionable woman will find utterly fascinating.  The preface surrounds the pillar of the fashion mecca VOGUE.  The audience joins the epicenter at the most critical preparations for 2007's September preview. This is largely known at the thickest issue for every fashion magazine, gearing up for fall. 




The documentary doesn't follow Anna Wintour as I presumed. The creative genius that I fell in love with was Grace Coddington.  Former sixties model turned editor and stylist. She is an incorrigible force to be reckoned with.  Through watching the program, I realized that she is the visionary behind my favorite fashion spreads in VOGUE.  Grab some Sour Patch Kids and paint your nails OPI's "Big Apple Red"as you fall in love with SEPTEMBER ISSUE, which is most timely this very month!

Breaking News: 5 inches cut.

I'm sort of in love.

Hooray!

Amazing/and/absolutely/thrilling.

Seth/Aaron/conquered/Project/Runway!

What/an/exciting/collection.

What/a/promising/designer.

images/via/New/Yorker.

Lunch Date: Downtown L.A. & Fall '10 Collections.

The great thing about living in Los Feliz
is that I'm 10 minutes away from everything.
That is inclusive of downtown.
Sister and I met with my dear friend Matty
for a lunch date last week.

A recent graduate of FIDM, he is already
working in the industry and strutting
his stuff at a beautiful showroom.
{I'm oh, so proud of him!}

Matt gave us a tour of the new collections.
*People, I witnessed the trends to come for fall '10!!
I die. That's all I have to say.

The Talent of Others.

Last week I modeled Rachel's beautiful design.
I am amazed by her vision and talent.
She took these dreamlike photos as well!
Film just has a certain crispness to it
that cannot be rivaled by it's digital counterpart.

Ashley's Academy Award Round Up.

There were thrills and chills to be had by all for last night's 82nd Academy Awards. The man Oscar rules this town for weeks prior to the event. Hollywood has been blocked off for a week, to my driving dismay. But, we make do for the love of the movies. Last night history was made for best director, the first female to win: Kathryn Bigelow! Congratulations for breaking up the boys club, and shattering that glass ceiling. I have selected a few of my favorite looks and love to hate looks:

Best Overall Look:
Miss Sandra: Playing up her best assets, she donned her lovely hair down, and had a pop of fuscia painting her lips. Her silver gown was both ethereal and poetic. What a dream!
Lady Mirren: She is my archtype for classy, sexy sophistication. I aspire to her career and sassy style. She was a vision, and dressed tres age appropriate. I say, "Well done!"
I Gotta Be Me:
Sarah Jessica: I love that you take risks. I felt that your dress was interesting, but I wasn't in lust with it. I loved your buxom bun though. I'm always on board for an epic hairstyle.
Kristen Stewart: I loved that you dolled up on your terms. True to your personal, punk-esque style you kept your edge, but merely sanded the point. Loved it.
Maggie Gyllenhaal: You looked brilliant. I'm pleased that you wore a printed frock. Nobody is brave enough to do that for the red carpet, and you turned it out. I think you are just lovely. Your Oscar is yet to come my dear! P.S. Can we be friends?
Yikes!
Charlize Theron: The rosette boobs really could have gone one of two ways. And they went in the WRONG direction. But, you are oh-so gorgeous, that we really don't care.
The Swank: This wasn't your best look: part provocative swim suit/part silk sarong is never the way to go. But who do you have to impress? You have two golden boys at home!
Who were your favorite hits and misses? How do you think the Co-Hosting went with Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin? Do tell!

Coat Check; Thanks Napoleon.

Remember my secret wish to own Napoleon's Coat? {here.} Well, I found a female/modern answer to my wish. I feel like I need some vintage war medals on the lapel however. I'll work on it. Perhaps E-Bay? Or a costume shop? I found the Jacket at Forever 21 for $38. Not bad. I don't feel like I'm ready to conquer the world literally, but perhaps I do figuratively. Thanks for the inspiration Napoleon.

How In The Hades?

How can I make my red lipstick last longer?
I'm glad you asked! Because I just figured out the secret.
Here's what you do:

• Invest in quality lipstick. Are you pale? Use mine: Mac Viva Glam Line A-8.
  
• Buy a drug store, long lasting liner. I have Revlon's Color Stay Lip Liner in red.
• Powder your lips with loose powder.
• Line your lips then fill in completely with the liner. {This is key to your success!}
  
• Apply your lipstick.
• Blot and check your teeth for good measure.
• Enjoy looking sassy!

Image by: fashionista411.today.com

Mouse Belt Infatuation.

Sea of Shoes is one of my daily reads. I don't always see eye-to-eye with her shoe selection {I hate platforms.} But I do enjoy the fact that she unites vintage with fresh pieces. One of my favorite accessories that she owns, is the infamous golden mouse belt. My chums Rachel and Melissa are probably sick of hearing me talk about it. I want it oh-so much!

Sarah Jessica Inspiration.

One of my favorite questions to ask is,

"Who is your fashion inspiration?"

One of mine is SJP. I love her look on and off the screen.

She's fearless, her choices are always interesting

and she understands her body type and accentuates the assets.

When I need inspiration for my wardrobe,

I pull out my SEX IN THE CITY KISS AND TELL book.

My personal motto has become,

"Don't wear what's in, wear what works."

This insures you won't be wearing the same thing as the gal next to you.

So tell me, who inspires your fashion?

You do have SOMETHING to Wear.

This brilliant, Brooklyn based artist is all I can talk about right now. Imagine wearing one dress for 365 days. Boring?  Hardly.  This sassy lady utilizes vintage, hand-me-downs, and self-made accessories to make her "uniform" anything but dull.  This fashionable effort is to aid the Akanksha Foundation.  Find out additional information, and see her daily duds {here.}
I am completely in awe of this woman.  I often feel that I have "nothing to wear."  Which is utter and complete rubbish.  The secret to fashion success is key, classic pieces, paired with delightful accessories. Perhaps we can all take a page from this splendid, frugal,  living art.