Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Interview with a Designer

A few weeks ago I sat down and interviewed an AMAZING designer, CarolAnn Wachter, for my column. I met CarolAnn at a cool little rug and home decor store in Boulder, รจ bella, where a lot of her pieces are sold.

I instantly fell in love with her vintage inspired collection of hats, dresses, coats and separates. Even the way her clothing is displayed in the store, like a work of art, shows CarolAnn's distinct creative personality.

CarolAnn was drawn to this large branch on a walk and just had to bring it home. It sat in her walkway for nearly a year before she "needed" it. This inspires me to add some extra closet space to my bedroom too!
I want this little white dress to bring out my innocence... It drapes perfectly and screams feminine...
Her hats make me want to head straight to Nantucket or the Hamptons... circa 1940.
I could live here.

I love meeting passionate people with inspiring stories. CarolAnn inspired me to keep following my dream, and she proves that nothing is unattainable if you've got HEART. Now, if only I could figure out what my "dream" is... so I can chase it... all the way to the bank!

Check out the complete article : HERE

XOX

Monday, July 26, 2010

House of Harlow 1960... A Step Above

Nicole Richie is one of my favorite celebrity fashionistas to trend track, and what's even better, she has 2 fabulous lines that make her steal-worthy style totally attainable. I have featured lots of lovely duds from her clothing line, Winter Kate, here in my blog. Her jewelry line, House of Harlow 1960, has also been a favorite to follow. But now that HOH is putting out more than just jewelry, I am totally smitten. Her shoes could very well be the best thing since TV Dinners. Just sayin'....

These Misha boots are totally in sync with my (latest) favorite trend... Southwest BoHo. Yes, please!


This pump is versatile enough to transition from summer to fall, and since they're too dang pretty to just sit in my shoe rack, I'd pair them with a knit tight through the winter, too! Check out that back detail... ahhhhmazing.




If only I was RICH-ie, I'd have them all! Haha... get it? ;)

XOX,

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Style Crush: Southwest BoHo

I have been saying for several weeks now that I really want to take a road trip to Santa Fe. The shopping, the food, the architecture, the turquoise... the style!

My latest style crush? Sothwest BoHo. After perusing Free People's website today (okay... I admit... it's kind of a weekly ritual), I am officially in love with this new look. I have been seeing it pop up in places sporadically for months now... a dreamcatcher necklace here, fishtail braids there, more and more turquoise... but it's apparent to me now that this beautiful trend is in full swing.



This look is TOTAL motivation for some DIY fashion... The boots in pic 3 remind me of my new FCUK score, and I already have enough denim, turquoise, leather, suede, feathers and fringe to play with for days. I just need to get to Santa Fe to find my finishing touches!

XOX,



Tuesday, July 20, 2010

It's the little things...

I found these amazing French Connection Rae Studded Ankle Boots on SALE at Buffalo Exchange for $10 today!! Talk about a sweet score... especially since I had a credit to boot (haha, no pun intended). 



I didn't even really have the chance to be freaked out that they are used shoes. I mean, I'm constantly claiming to be a lover of all things vintage, right? So, nothing a little sanitizer and some socks can't fix! Plus, I'm a firm believer that most boots look better with age.

XOX,

A Very Charming Giveaway WINNER!

Thanks to everyone who participated in this fabulous promo! I cannot believe how many of you had such amazing stories of inspiration. It would have been way too for me to pick just one winner, but lucky for me, I didn't have to.... According to random.org, the LUCKY winner of this Very CHARMING Giveaway is:

FASHION FAIRY!


Fashion Fairy said...


Wonderful!!!

A book is my inspiration:


The Blessings of Love

Fashion Fairy, I will be contacting you soon for your shipping information. Congrats... The scarf will match your bow!! ♥

Thank you so much to all my readers for your love and continued support. Be sure to stay tuned for my next giveaway... and your chance to win!

XOX,

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

What's in My Suitcase this Summer?

I'm going to Canada to visit my boyfriend's family summer cottage in a few weeks, and the first thought that comes with every vacation is... what will I pack?? As I make my packing list, I've decided to share my TOP 10 Summer Items with you, too!

First on my list, as an Esthetician and very fair-skinned girl, is sunscreen. I am (still) addicted to Dermalogica, and their Solar Defense Travel wipes are no exception to this obsession. They are super travel friendly and great on the go!




Next up are my sunnys! I still love my Ray Ban aviators, but let's it face girls, bigger is better... especially on vacation when you might need a "do not disturb" sign for your face. I have a pair similar to these serious shades by Oliver Peoples, and they're perfect for bright summer days.


I don't go anywhere in the summer without my flip flops! For the past few years I have been loyal to Havaianas... hey, if it aint broke, don't fix it! The buttery Brazilian flip flops will not give you blisters and are comfy enough to wear all day and all night. The grey/silver Slims are my favorite... they match just about everything, and are a little more funky than traditional black.




Most summer vacations include a body of water, right? Either a lake, ocean, pool or river. I will be living on a dock by the lake in my bathing suit for 5 days, so even though it's not first on this list, my bikini will probably be the first thing to go in my suitcase! I always gravitate towards busy prints and bright colors when bathing suit shopping, but I always end up wearing my good 'ol basic black bikini. Black looks great on everyone, even pasty people like me. I love this solid suit by Vix Swimwear (as seen on Ashley Tisdale). The fuller bottoms are still super sexy, and the halter top even flatters my smaller busts.



Unfortunately I can't live on the dock, and will need to take a break for refills, so a cute cover-up is definitely in order. I'm a big fan of using one of my boyfriend's button downs for quick and easy coverage, but since he's not such a fan, I'll probably pack a few of my own. I ADORE this bohemian inspired tunic, also by Vix.



My cover-up may be great for the day, but I might need to throw on a little something more for an evening barbecue or gathering. This is where my rekindled love for the Maxi Dress comes into play. Yes, I am still obsessed with Gyspy05.... I think it's safe to say it's going to be a long standing love affair. Most of their dresses are silk, but I love this vintage looking cotton Amber Maxi Dress-- great for traveling.



I've gotten good at being a minimalist on these summer vacations-- meaning "limited" use of the hair dryer and flat iron. One product that makes my no-fuss hair manageable is Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. I have really straight and super fine hair, but this product makes me look like a total beach babe. It's basically salt water, "umph", and magic in a bottle.


Another no-fuss summer must is a sun hat. Not only will it shade your face, but it will also hide your messy tresses. Love this one from Planet Blue, but any floppy sun hat will do the trick!


Even though I hope that my trip consists of only sunny days with equally warm nights, the reality is it will probably get chilly. I can't imagine I'll need my winter parka, but a lightweight sweater or cardigan is perfect. I love just about anything by Elizabeth and James, but this Button Back Cardigan is particularly amazing. It can be worn casual and loose, or buttoned up the back for a more fitted look.


Last but not least, I don't go anywhere without a good book! I primarily read chick-lit, and there are quite a few new ones out that I've had my eye on lately. As ridiculous as it sounds, I'm obsessed with Tori Spelling! I love her drive, her fashion sense, and her ability to laugh at herself. I've enjoyed her previous books, so I'm hoping her latest, Uncharted TerriTori, ends up in my carry-on!



Cheers to fabulous summer vacays!

XOX,

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Off the Cuff

I have been mildly obsessed with Turquoise since I was a little girl. The love affair began in 6th grade when my Mom passed down an antique Turquoise ring that I insisted on wearing everyday. I absolutely adored it, but not enough to prevent me from trading it with my BFF Kelly for her funky silver heart ring on a summer road trip to Palm Springs. Years later I came across it in Kelly's jewelry box, and the obsession started all over again.

I just found this AMAZING Turquoise cuff by Calleen Cordero, and all I can think about is how I want to wear it everyday, with everything, but particularly with red shoes. Have you ever noticed how great Turquoise and Red go together... or is this just me?



♥ Turquoise Loves Red ♥

Playing around with my Favorite Red Shoes from a random mart in LA's fashion district and Vintage Turquoise Scarf


This look has me dreaming about a road trip to Santa Fe, where Turquoise jewelry reigns, and my red high shoes can dance me into the sunset. Thank you Calleen for my latest obsession. If I do make the purchase, I promise there will be no trading with my BFF!


XOX,

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Flirty Skirty!

An ultra feminine skirt, showing off your sunkissed stems, is a surefire way to turn heads this summer! I am still crazy for the high-waisted trend, paired with a tucked in shirt to show off your curves, or a crop top to make the boys drool.

Kiss the Girl Skirt Photo Credit: Hallelu


Elizabeth & James Paper Bag Skirt Photo Credit: shopbop


Lola Skirt Photo Credit: Fred Flare


Bust out the razors and bronzer... It's time to bare those sexy legs and get your flirt on!

XOX,


Monday, July 5, 2010

CROP it like it's HOT!

Some trends from the 80's are better left behind, but some trends are, like, totally worth repeating. One of my favorite looks that's making a huge comeback is the CROP TOP. Paired with a high-waist jean, shorts, or a skirt, this look is smokin' hot.


Photo Credit: Shopbop

If this trend isn't motivation to bust out your old Ab Roller from the 80's, or hit a Jazzercise class, I don't know what is!

XOX,


Thursday, July 1, 2010

A Very Charming Giveaway

Earlier this year I was introduced to an amazing line of scarves by Donni Charm. I instantly fell in love with their fresh and sophisticated look, but what intrigued me the most about Donni Charm was the inspirational back story. Alyssa Wassko, a local 21-year old designer, started creating these gorgeous cotton jersey scarves  in light of losing her father. Her father's name was Donald, she was his precious "little charm", and creating these scarves was a huge part of the healing process for Alyssa.

Never did Alyssa dream that what began as a way for her to "feel her Father's arms around her" would turn into the fast-growing fashion phenomenon it is today. They've already expanded their vast selection of scarves to tees and tanks, and show no plans of stopping there. Worn by famous celebrity fashionistas, such as Jessica Biel, Naomi Watts and Kim Kardashian, Donni Charm is a must-have addition to every trend tracker's closet. 

The Donni Charm line and Alyssa's story means more to me today than ever before. Just 2 months ago my father, who is coincidentally named Donald as well, fell into a coma after suffering from a severe cardiac arrest. He's out of the coma, but not nearly out of the woods. Alyssa's inspirational story has been with me through this entire experience, and I have continued to look to her story for strength.

The Donni Charm team has been gracious enough to host "A Very Charming Giveaway" on Ash Hearts Fash this month. One lucky reader will win a coral Donni Charm cotton triangular fringe scarf, enhanced by two love knots and angel wing good luck charms, from their Spring 2010 collection.



Photo Credit: Donni Charm


Are you in it to win it? All you need to do is FOLLOW my blog (through Google Friend Connect on the lower right hand side of this page), and then post a comment on this entry telling me something that has INSPIRED you to do something Charming. The promo begins today, July 1st, and will run until July 20th.

This giveaway holds a very special place in my heart, and I'm so excited to see who wins. I already have the scarf ready to go, served up in an adorable container, with a wing charm attached to open the lid!

Thanks for playing, and GOOD LUCK!!


P.S. I will post the pics for What I Wore Wednesday tonight. It's been a very busy 2 weeks, but I promise I won't leave ya hanging!

XOX,

Summer Lovin' Giveaway WINNER!!

Happy July Fash Followers! Well, today is a very BIG day. Not only am I thrilled to announce the lucky winner of my Summer Lovin' Giveaway, but I'm also super excited to begin a new promo!

First things first... The lucky winner of the beautiful Ru Fabricates Wristlet is....



Jenny Stamos

Jenny said...


"My favorite purse is a green Guess purse I got at a consignment shop. It's the coolest shade of green!"

Jenny, I will be contacting you today for shipping information. Thanks for following Ash Hearts Fash, and thanks to everyone who participated.

Stay tuned for a very SPECIAL July giveaway I'll be announcing next!

XOX,