In my last two days I have been busily living in my black and white world of science and reports, working on homework and also umpiring basketball. The idea is that in the next couple of days and this weekend I'll have more time to myself to spend working on my biology essay and trying to catch up on all the blogging material that's been to my inbox from Acne, The Corner and Fat4. This week will probably mark the end of my attendance to my single Wednesday lecture- there's been plenty of wonderful outfits that I've put together but since I have many 7am and 6am starts and I come home at lunchtime I'm much too tired to pose in front of the camera and set up the tripod in my hallway. Although I've been mocking many Arts students this past week and take pride in my Science degree and studies I wish I had more time to myself and could create amazing drawings, develop my rolls of film and be a little more artistic in my own right. I've seen the older university students and their lack of attention to their appearance and I desperately want to avoid such a fate- there are worse things but I'm looking to balance the two sides of my brain with science and academics as well as artistic and fanciful pursuits.
With Winter just on our doorsteps for Australians, I've been searching Asos and Acne for fisherman jumpers and sweaters with brightly threaded Aztec patterns to brighten up these sad grey days. Collections along the line of digital prints and colours inspired by the natural occurrences of Aurora Borealis are what I'm looking to inject into my wardrobe but there's also the dilemma of choosing to buy simple basics to better coordinate into outfits. Dressing to eccentrically can attract some unwanted attention especially when commuting daily on public transport so I'll need to find the perfect medium between the two extremes of wearing neutral tones and bombastically bright colours and designs.
My mind feels as messy and unorganised as this illustration and it seems there's so many things I want to do that I feel incapacitated to really do anything worthwhile. Today was meant to be a bit of a treat in which I would finish doing my practical write up and get up do date with my lecture notes as well as looking at reference material for my essay and then have a long messy blog session while watching Doctor Who. It's three in the afternoon and I still have to finish my practocal write up, check it and send it off. Oh why did I choose such a difficult and long degree full of hard work; at this rate I won't be getting a proper part time job and won't be able to advance my wardrobe and add colour to it. If this is as stressful as my year gets than I'll happily deal with this as opposed to exam pressure in high school from last year.
At the start of every new year I propose to myself to join an artistic short course related to textiles or drawing but it seems that with a heavy study load as well as a hunger for fashion and jewellery I'll need to better prioritise my time into working part time, studying and making time for the other important people in my life. While I would like to feel the satisfaction of putting my own assorted artwork around the walls of my rooms in glass frames I am quite happy to share the work of others on my own little website and take them as a representation of my mood and feelings.
My thinking has been overloaded with conflict these last few days in deciding what kind of person I am, what kind of life I would like to live, if the two can be brought together or if I will always try to be something I'm not. As much as I'd like to, I will never become the young woman above as my skin just can't get that pale and if I dyed my hair blue my father would disown me- I don't fit into the world of surreal style and effortless fashion bloggers and my hair needs more work and to be maintained regularly. Instead I prefer to be kept busy with my academic work and Science studies and can't find the right balance between my social life and university study. I have to be careful not to live the sort of life I did last year when I studied far tool much and became a work-a-holic.
With my teenage years soon to be behind me, these last few months are my last to show a rebellious streak ad break into the world of punk/ hipster ties. I've come to the dim conclusion that dip-dye hair has been out of style for months now and that the only way to pull off stylishly coloured hair is to dye my entire head. This is something that would probably disturb all my close friend and family and isn't a decision to be taken likely. If I can buy some extensions from Etsy though in pink, teal, purple and blue, I can take a little bit of a break during this next holiday to catch up on all my outfits, get a haircut and add in the extensions to plaits and see how much I admire their quality. That's about as close as I'll get to having wildly and fantastically magical coloured hair and causing head to turns as I walk down the street.
If I had pursued my childhood ambitions of becoming a cartoonist or simply working as an illustrator I wouldn't need to explain things with theory and observations and nor would I be plagued with the insistent online tests of my course. Instead I'd be free to bring things in to creation using my own hand and commanding colour and shadow to breath life into two dimensions. I love knowing how bright my future is at the present but I ache for the freedom of expression once again and making time for myself in order to read, write and improve myself as a person. Things just seem so complicated and political these days...
Although I had taken the day off from my one lecture in order to start on my Biology assignment (not started yet) my plans to also document my most triumphant outfits and take some self-portraits has also been thwarted by my mother. I'm always very self-aware of my vanity and clumsy nature when there are other people pottering about the house. While I can never hope to recreate such a fanciful world of purple haired girls, shimmering walls and pink helium balloons; it would have been nice to be a show pony once again and work in front of the camera for outfit posts. It also seems that I have far too much to commentate on as it is and the mass of images stored on my hard drive is impeding my other computer activities. In order to blog as often as I see fit, get up to date with all my assignments and have enough money for each week I would like the week to be twice as long with the same amount of work so I can have a balanced life and a fair workload.
I set myself many goals each year and the one I failed to succeed at the most was drawing cute and kitsch cartoons in a stylised way to document things I'd like to buy as well as my own outfits and moods. Being a perfectionist as it were means that I always feel intimidated by a blank piece of paper since I'll only massacre it's promise and opportunity and will never feel satisfied with what I create. I suppose in an ideal world I would see a shrink and try and get that problem sorted out but I'm much too busy procrastinating and blogging with a sense of purpose to recharge my overworked and tired brain.
If I were better motivated on my life rather than my schoolwork I would also attempt to clean my room today and buy something as cute as these small, baby pink ballerinas in plastic from Etsy and try to string them around the walls of my room in a mock fairy light fashion. As it so happens, I'd rather accept the fact I'll need a week to sort out everything in my room and the rumpled piles of clothes next to the bed and I'd rather write in an archaic and curly fashion. For some odd reason, I've always been more satisfied with sentences and their quality than solving mathematics equations and my poor writing hand deserves a break from grappling with pens all day.
It doesn't necessarily take a genius to create an image in this likeness, but having access to a beautiful model to wear a digitally printed jumpsuit and thick gold chains certainly does help. Given all the time in the world I'd somehow still lose the motivation to enrol in a sewing class and never create such imaginative clothes such as this. I must admit, there is a great contrast between the brown bricks and the clouds on the sleeves of this jumper. I've also had some knitted gold chains in the style of Flava Flav on my mind and when I finally get a steady job I will make them mine (finally).
When all colour combinations fail and you simply can't afford those lovely artist quality markers, choose black and work with the best white- should your designs be bold and effective enough you are sure to deliver what can only be described as a stellar illustration. My favourite study within university has been Geo science so far and learning the basics of stellar evolution and how the solar system has evolved. I was keen to also get an iPad for a specific app shown to us in a lecture. The use of basic lunar ellipses, ringed planets and comets streaking across the wallpaper on a black background and the contrast of grey carpet and stars. It doesn't make me want to vacuum and clean my room in the least though despite such an imaginative collaboration between space and the ordinary.
Creepers from Asos as well as chic chino pants have been the top of my priorities as of late and the sharp contrast between patent leather, purple and aqua has set my heart ablaze. I'm of two minds really; to dress as colourfully as possible and suffer the slings and arrows or observers passing judgement upon me or dressing entirely in black with a sunny disposition as not to be mistaken for being too punk. While dressing in black will give me the versatility of a moody and angst-filled chameleon, but it's dressing with exuberant style and grace that has earned many fashion bloggers their great acclaim.
Susie Bubble of the Style Bubble is shown holding a modern Canon camera but looks like an Asian cover girl for the 1960s- it must be the bold and psychedelic print of the jacket that puts me in the mood for a little time warp of my own. It's the fine clashing or prints and subtle confidence that captures people's imaginations and admiration the most and while I may not like the shoes by themselves the bright pink perspex of the Karen Walker sunglasses and the use of a purple sash and green skirt to match the jacket really pulls the entire outfit together.
When flouncing around at Melbourne Fashion week I noticed that thick wedge heels in bright colours were all the rage amongst the best dressed girls and the one to gain the most following of whispers was an Asian girl wearing thick wedge heels made of wood and some 30 centimeters high. That may not have been a good thing but another girl with half pink and half blue hair channeling a Cruella De Ville goddess appeal certainly seemed to be the hero of the way wearing a crafty and geometric cubism dress with Deadly Ponies Mr Lure key chain. The point of all that pointless jabbering was that if you have bright and colourful hair as well as gorgeously thick heels and some sort of matching top then you are bound to be a hit just as this young lass above is.
Snap backs don't normally fit in with my day-to-day casual attire but how can I resist the marriage of such a cheery cherry red, blue contrasting material and the modern word 'Swag'. To wear it with denim shirt, crushed velvet leggings and maybe a good pair of Vans would be ideal when sporting it with a backpack would be great for campus life. But I'm far to content embracing all the knee-high length dresses and skirts to allure all the young men as well as my treasure trove of silver and gold jewellery to keep me company as well.
The micro-blogging Tumblr sensation of 'Sexy-Sweaters' was one of my favourite sources of punk and graphic designed sweaters imagined using photo shop including miffed looking cats in school uniforms. It reminds me a little of what American blogger Tavi Gevinson did for her feminist blog Rookie recreating school photographs featuring girls with piercings and tattoos with bubble gum and lipstick. Such edge and style all packed into a small political and pocket-sized statement available for mothers to carry around proudly in their wallets- it makes me wish there were more cheesy yearbooks with horrible school photographs from the 1960s and 1990s around.
If I had gorgeous pink hair I certainly wouldn't be doing anything as pretentious as to try and cut it myself especially the back of my head and without a mirror but I can appreciate the small beauty of having pink hair falling like rose petals over the shoulder. Maybe a short little bob would be a punchy but still, feminine way to have prim pink hair with it still delivered in a statement.
I may have sent my lovely Black Milk Galaxy leggings away to a lucky girl in Germany for a nominal fee but that doesn't mean I can't enjoy their beauty when collaborating some graphic prints together right? The fashion world was largely dominated by space themed prints last year among spandex and Lycra loving girls and I'm waiting what else there is to see in this year as far as digital prints goes. Fashion week had some lovely prints of fragmented plates from op shops and petals as well, I can't wait to see smaller scale objects transformed into beautiful pieces of clothing.
What could possibly be better than one lavish lady dresses in sweet pastel tones and alluring dark sunglasses to shade her bright eyes? A whole troupe of wonderful and subtle colours all travelling together in a wonderful group! Not many of my friends are into fashion they way I secretly am, but it would be nice to compile with other bloggers on occasion and maybe head down to market events and be able to photograph one another in a favour-returning chain. I love the casual use of socks and sandals as well as knee high socks and leather satchels- there's a school girl charm appeal about the ensemble of girls but they all look past high school and well into university. I love the Beatles shirt worn on the left and tucked casually into a denim shirt- it's such a relaxed look but it also radiates cool 1960s love of music.
The perfect companion to an angora, tri-colour sweater? Why leather pants and hot heels of course, and a look of a deer-frozen-in-headlights wouldn't go astray either. I love the matching painted wall behind her though and the cute little wrinkles of her pants- I've been meaning to get my hands on a nice versatile pair of faux leather pants for Winter but just as I summon the courage to purchase on Asos, they sell out. They would certainly make for a good staple piece of my wardrobe and would also being out the quirky nature of vintage sweaters adopted from my local shops as well. If you're not completely welcoming of the cotton candy tones and sugary sweetness that pastel shades have to offer, plain black heels and pants are a wonderful way to ease yourself into the trend.
Some people (ordinary non-fashion obsessed people with lives) sometimes have unwelcoming views of Asian girls dyeing their hair in outrageous hues. For example there is a celestial being that graces my lectures on occasion when technology fails us and she's a Chinese girl with platinum blond hair in soft silvery tones and a subtle crimping affect. One day she dressed in all black and the latest combination was a woolen blue jumper with suede elbow patches. The students sitting behind me leered gently at her but I think she's gorgeous and admire people in their twenties who have the courage to go grey prematurely. Similarly, I loved this image of lilac hair, wine red lips and a crisp white blazer shown above. Some of the best trends in life are truly for the head and hair and this is the highest calibre. If only I didn't have conservative parents who would disown me for pulling such a stunt...
I love the simple combination of a flowing blouse as well as showy jeans in a bright colour- there's a great range of handmade printed silk scarves available on Etsy and at your local vintage store. Another favourite of mine is a brand called Kloset, which is very similar to that of Sretsis for an updated and chic look. With the understated wedges in beige and billowing smock top, it's definitely the jeans that are the dominant colour of this outfit but those shoes are to die for as well. Finally a nice word about the girl herself: while her outfit is neat and without nary a stain to worry about the contrast of her textured hair that springs in every direction imaginable is a wonderful contrast. I must have hair envy- my own long locks have been bugging me a lot lately and I think it's time for a chop or to add a splash of colour somewhere.
One of the more admirable qualities of pastels is their ability to bring out the soft and feminine appeal with the right structures. Midi skirts, or those that end between the knees and ankles have become increasingly popular as of late as well as sheer and mesh patterns but it's the strong colour blocking of the skirt with tan leather bag across the body that I admire. I've never been a big fan of thin strappy heels but those worn with the lilac and aqua vintage shirt and an expression like that of a deer-in-headlights does have me slightly infatuated. It's more of a lust and admiration to try and channel someone else's style from within my own being that has me feeling woozy though.
Although I have been shamelessly neglecting my own pair of black Dr Martens, I am lusting over the brogue like design and Pearl tones of some of their newest ranges. The British brand Dr Martens have really been keeping up with the latest fashion trends as of late, including creating their own style of creepers shoes with the well known, weather soles people around the world have come to know and love. For something a tad more sweet and innocent, this lovely lass above has styled them with floral pants and a sweet lilac jumper with crisp collar peaking out. I've always had a large crush on purple, but this sweet shade of lilac is easy on the eyes and goes well with brown hair- the mismatched mint coloured brogues are even more of a turn on with upturned cuffs at the ankles to boot.
Once again I have the itch to try and change something about myself starting with my hair; mint green may not be the preferential choice of myself or my parents but I do love the rock chick aesthetic appeal. Long comet-tails of liquid eyeliner in sharp cutting lines has been one of my favourite distinct looks for university, and nothing says glamorously tacky like a leopard print coat or some other faux
I've never one to be worried about the effect of rain dampening my spirits or my hairdo but there have been a rather nice range of see-through umbrellas available to purchase on the Opening Ceremony- I'd be more than happy to spend more than half my paycheck at their online store, if only they accepted Paypal. While being a full-time university students has given me a number of perks and concession priced goodies it's still difficult to buy the best clothes when you need to ask your parents for permission and pay them back. Fortunately loose, slouchy jumpers in the fashion of fisherman and crochet style are easily found at some of the most synonymous fashion names and I have my eye on a few from Asos. I'll just be holding out for the coldest and most bitter weather that Winter in Melbourne has to throw at me till I dare step out in effortless style- or try to look as good and carefree.
Having naturally dark hair has always yielded many a dilemma when it comes to dyeing my hair and feeling pleased with the results of resorting to the bottle. It's a tad unrealistic to try and achieve such modelling perfection and feel confident in everyday society with such boisterous pink hair but I think a streak here and there by way of extensions and worn in a plait or braid may be the answer to my bored hair situation. It may take some hundred dollars to have a head full of soft pink hair, or maybe a wig would do just nicely- all I know is I have a hunger for pastel tones that are reminiscent of all my favourite jelly candies and that my hair is also giving my grief. Metaphorically killing two birds with one stone and fixing my hair and craving for colour would be a god send but I don't think it's quite as reasonable as I would like it to be.
Another magical ability of pastel clothing is that no matter what your facial expression says, you still look as cute as a fairy and delightful as punch. It may not have been the model's intent to scowl at the camera and purse her lips but it really does make her a little tired and cranky. Clothes can usually do wonders for one's mood- I often choose to wear red when I'm sick in a feeble attempt to perk myself up and maybe sweet baby blue and pink is this young lady's way of being a little sweeter on the inside by projecting it on the outside. I must say, I really love the swirling patterns and colours of her belt though- a nice way to break apart the pink and blue shades and inject some more colours to enjoy in the outfit.
Just another reason to drool over the prospect of travelling to Japan sometime next year is all the cool and kooky fashion, including sprawling paisley scarfs in colours that remind me of dreams and fluffy boots akin to that of the abominable snowman. There's also the small matter of Olympia Le-Tan's recent holiday influencing me, collaborations and parties in swish Japanese boutiques and the Miyazaki Museum.
My favourite British born Chinese fashion blogger, Ms. Susie Bubble of the Style Bubble manages to inject a sweet pastel tone into a neutral outfit by use of feminine makeup. At a guess it's something similar to the Lime Crime shades of fuchsia lipstick. I love it when she wears round frames- looks so chic with her straight and angular front fringe. There's also the lovely masculine tones of the sheepskin hood attached to a dark green woolen coat and simplistic snap back cap with black and white. I have such a hard time trying to wear a snap back hat and still look utterly feminine but it's always so inspiring to see others pull off outfits in such an aesthetically pleasing manner.
