Style to Admire: Cici Marie

For this month's style crush I spoke with Cici Marie of Cici-Marie.com I love her style and gorgeous photos.  Cici currently lives in Cambridge, in the UK, and blogs about vintage style around a full-time job in publishing. She mostly blogs about her outfits and how she incorporates vintage - particularly 50s - style into her daily wardrobe. She also posts product reviews, guides and tutorials to help others embrace vintage style too.

Bleu Avenue:  Cici Marie, I am so excited to talk with you about your style.   How did you first become interested in fashion?

Cici Marie: To be honest, I don't really remember a time I wasn't obsessed with what I was wearing, but I think it was initially triggered by being forced to wear matching outfits to my younger sisters when I was a child!! There's nothing like having your clothing identity restricted in that cringeworthy way for making you want to create your own the moment you could! I think I've always looked to clothes to be a bit different and help create the image of who I want to be in the world ever since - as a teen this manifested as running around as a little goth and as I've matured I've adopted the flattering styles and shapes of the mid century. I want to look like a confident, attractive woman and I feel like what I wear now is the best way for me to do this, while still keeping a streak of individuality.

 B:  That is so true.  Whenever I've helped friends with their style, I always remind them that what you wear is a visual statement about how you feel about yourself.  Sometimes people don't realize that what you wear is sending a message about who you are and who you want to be.  It's ok to take some time to put thought into that, and sometimes we look to those we admire for a little inspiration.  Who are your style icons past or present?

CM: Past, I think it's the obvious answer: Marilyn Monroe. I'm sorry I can't be more original than that, but it was Marilyn's style and whole look that got me interested about vintage style in the first place, so she deserves all the kudos. I went through a bit of a phase of watching all of her movies and obsessively Google image searching for photos of her! Present, I'm completely influenced by other bloggers. I read other blogs voraciously and am so inspired by how women like me are playing with style and looking fabulous. Reading other blogs has probably had the biggest impact on my style of everything.

B:  How has your style or your views on fashion changed over time?

CM:  My style and attitude towards fashion, in a nutshell, has hugely expanded over the last decade or so. I used to be very narrowly focused on a handful of styles I thought suited me and was a bit scared/reluctant to try anything else. That's totally changed now and I'm actively trying out more things I never would have worn before. For example, big 50s-style swing skirts I was sure would look horrible on me because I'm so petite - but in fact, with the right length and a good pair of heels they can look great. Once I'd realised that, it made me aware there was probably so much more out there that I should be trying out. On a more aesthetic level, I'm not running around like a mini goth like I was when I was in my teens, so I'd say that's been a pretty big shift too ;

B:  That is too funny, I think everyone's been through a goth phase.  I certainly have and I'm very thankful there are no photos of it, only memories.  And, I agree with being open to lots of different styles.  It's very freeing.  Even so, I think we all have those certain things we cannot do without.  What are your closet necessities?

CM:  Red accessories! It's such an easy way to add some fun and diversity to otherwise dull outfits, and has the bonus of making them look instantly more finished. I love red shoes, belts and hats. And while I'm on hats, berets are my closet necessity for winter - they're warm, stylish and suit most people because of how they can be worn in different placements on the head.

B:  As a stylish fashionista, what is the best style or personal advice you've been given that you'd like to share with others?

CM:  I'm not sure anyone's ever dared try to give me style advice as I'm pretty stubborn! So I'll mention instead a piece of constructive criticism that came through my blog: it's possible to have too much going on in an outfit! I have a tendency to want to wear lots of colours and match everything (somehow!), but my favourite outfits, I gradually realised, tend to feature three main colours. I'm sure not everyone will find this works for them but I quite often use this 'rule of 3' as a starting point now and it's working for me, as my outfits feel much more co-ordinated and 'put together'.

  

B:  That's fantastic, I'm going to have to keep that in mind for the next time I'm pulling an outfit together.  Thank you so much for talking with me.

Keep up with Cici Marie at www.cici-marie.com 

Crops & Midis

    I happen to love my waist line.  I worked so hard to get it and continue to work hard to keep it.  The best way to show off your curves is focus your fit on the narrowest part of your waist.  That's easier to do with a dress, but finding great separates can create a more interesting and stylish look.
     On a recent browse through ThredUp, I saw a lovely print skirt for about $11, high waist, yes, but worth the risk for that print.  Then on a second visit I saw an adorable crop top and it just clicked that these two things were meant to go together.
     I've only ever thought of bare midriffs as style appropriate on beaches.  I haven't owned or worn a belly shirt since I was a toddler with an adorable little belly to show off.  Since then I've tried to keep my midriff covered for a variety of reasons, but thanks to the literal rise in waist lines, a cropped top is just the thing to compliment those midi skirts or high-waist shorts.

ThredUp Express Skirt $11.50

ThredUp Sparkle and Fade Top $8.50

ModCloth Qupid Heels $30.99

(Interested in Joining ThredUp?  Follow this link to save $20 off your first order http://www.thredup.com/r/JOE80Z )

A few of my favorite Crop & Midi combos include:

              Nasty Gal Glamorous Neck to Neck $38  +   ModCloth Scholarly Statement Skirt $79.99



 

         Forever 21 Floral Tribal Crop Top $8.90   +    ASOS Missguided Premium Lace Midi Skirt $70

   Nasty Gal Take Sides Ribbed Crop Top $38      +    Forever 21 Ornate Organza Striped Skirt $24.90                       

Unique Vintage Voodoo Vixen Ruffle Top $38  +  ShopRuche Fields of Poppy Midi Skirt $48.99

You Winsome You Bloom Some: ootd

   

    I really loved this dress on ModCloth, but it was pricey and didn't come in my size.  It eventually went on sale, but was still $40 with shipping, so I decided to pass on it.  Then I found it on Ebay with the tags still on it, and it was being sold by a very reasonable seller for about $30.

    The seller mentioned that she loved the dress, but it just hadn't fit as she expected, so before buying, I contacted her for more info.  She said that the top fit normally but the waist was too tight.  Since I needed a smaller size, a tight waist would be great, and (fingers crossed) I could maybe make some alterations to the bodice.

    It was a little tricky because of the prints under the arms and on the back.  I hated to lose either, but it was too baggy to be left alone.  I decided to take it in at the back around the print, so I wouldn't lose anything, and I love the outcome.  

    I'm so excited because it goes perfectly with these gray pumps I found at a shop on my travels.  They're the same as the heels currently being sold at ModCloth as "Tea on the Train Heels in Pebble,"  but they were half the price.

    Since this dress has a very garden party feel,  I decided that only pearls would do for the accessories.  A bright yellow cardigan brings out the yellow roses since the pink and red roses stand out so well already.  Voila!  Look complete with approximately $80 saved off the retail prices. 

Shop the Look:

Dress from ModCloth

Yellow Cardigan by Fervour

Shoes the Hallie style from Dolce by Mojo Moxy

Earrings Handmade

Layered Pearl Necklace from Forever 21

Artist Spotlight: Katie Reim of Cultivar

   For this week's Artist Spotlight, I've chosen the gorgeous work of Katie Reim from Cultivar.  I first saw Katie's work when I had a shop on Etsy .  I loved nothing better than to wait for that exact moment the treasury spots opened up and then scour Etsy and my own favorites list for things to put into a collection.  Katie's work was always at the head of the list when I searched for satin flowers.  

       I pined over her unique creations and the beautiful way she photographed them.  But Katie's work is more than that, it is born of adversity and has bloomed into the opportunity to spend each day doing what she loves. 

In Katie's own words:

      Cultivar started as an accident and opened with no plan or expectations. While recovering and bedridden after brain surgery in 2009, I began experimenting with making fabric flowers for my new short haircut. With so much time on my hands, a few flowers quickly turned into a living room full. Once I was able to spend more time off the couch, I threw together a shop and posted a few flowers. It must have been meant to be, since on the second day I landed on the front page, and my first few sales motivated me to make even more. In the years that have followed, Cultivar has evolved immensely and become my full time job.

Bleu Avenue:  Hello, Katie, thank you for taking time to talk with me.  Yours is a truly amazing story. If not for all these circumstances like being bedridden and having to manage short hair, do you think that this is an art form you would have ever considered?

Katie Reim:  I honestly don’t see any other way I could have arrived here. It started as a way to pass the time and when I decided to throw some of the flowers on Etsy, as another way to pass time, I really had no expectations of selling any. I had tried some other ventures on Etsy and failed pretty miserably. I had big plans for diving into my illustration career once I regained my health, so being a crafter likely would have remained a hobby otherwise.

B:  This whole endeavor began in 2009 and you're still going strong. What's your secret to staying inspired?

KR:  My clients really keep me going. Brides often come to me with new color combinations or ideas, which help keep things fresh. I also find inspiration in the vintage bits I find. A piece of antique lace or a sparkly brooch from the 50’s can set the tone for me to create around it. Even when I’m making the same thing over and over, I know it’s going to be a special piece for that bride to keep and possibly pass down so I want it to be perfect.

B:  I really thing that that shows in your work.  You have a great eye for composition. Each piece seems to be its own little world. How do you know when a bouquet or even a single flower is just the right arrangement?

KR:  Composition is something I’ve always been naturally good at and I have a terrible time explaining it. It just looks right to me. The balance of colors is definitely important for the bouquets so before I put a bouquet together, I lay out the large flowers first and fill in with whatever looks best as I put it together. Many of my pieces evolve as I work on them and don't always turn out the way I originally intended.

  B:  You mentioned earlier that you've tried other endeavors on Etsy in the past.  Today you're still actively creative in other art forms.  In addition to Cultivar, you also have an Etsy shop for your illustrations and you do photography. Do you find it difficult to juggle all your creative outlets or are there still more out there you'd like to try?

KR:  As an ultra runner, I spend a ton of time running trails in the PNW wilderness. This gives me my photography fix that I’ve become increasingly more addicted to. I do wish I had more time for illustration and experimenting since I have a ton of ideas floating around in my head that often come to me while I’m running. I never can seem to find time to get those ideas out. It can be overwhelming and frustrating but I’m grateful I have been able to make a living doing something creative and that I truly love, so I suppose those ideas can wait.

B:  I agree, never let go of those ideas, just put them on hold for a while.  What about those people out there who've had some creative ideas waiting for a while and feel like they're ready to get started, do you have any advice for aspiring crafters?

KR:  I say go for it but be sure to be original. Finding inspiration around you is what makes an artist, but you will be much more passionate about something that is your own and your love and passion will show through your work. Originality will leave you more fulfilled as well as successful.

Following your passion can be a huge risk, but the payoff if you succeed is well worth it.

 

You can find Katie's Bouquets at Culitvar.etsy.com

See her illustrations at http://www.katiejeannereim.etsy.com

View her portfolio at www.katiereim.com

 

Allergy Friendly Autumn Spice Cookies

    We deal with allergies in our house, so instead of viewing it as a set of limitations to my cooking, I chose long ago to see it as an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen.  

    One of my favorite times of year is autumn.  I love the colors.  I love to layer my outfits.  I love that refreshing chill in the air after those seemingly endless summer heat waves.  But, my favorite thing about fall is the food.  

    There's nothing better than a nice hot cuppa tea and some spice cookies after a long walk home in the cold rain.  

    Rather than abandon cookies, I've made some adjustments so that they're allergy friendly and something we can all enjoy together.

My cooking is like jazz music in the sense that it's highly improvisational.  I don't often follow a recipe, or use measuring cups,....or write anything down.  So, bear with me as I try to reconstruct this recipe.

Recipe:

1 Betty Crocker Gluten Free Sugar Cookie Mix

1 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice

1 TBS Molasses

1/4 C. Coconut Oil (I like Nutiva Organic Cold Pressed Oil)

1/2 to 3/4 C. Pureed Acorn Squash

1/4 C. chopped pecans and/or pumpkin seed *optional

Instructions:

Split squash in half & scoop out seeds.  Fill the bottom of a covered baking dish with water to about 1/4 inch deep.  Place squash filling side down in water, cover and place in a 350 degree oven until the middle is tender.   Allow to cool and then peel off and discard the skin.  Cut insides into chunks and place in a food processor and process until smooth.  Puree should be very thick, not watery.

In a separate bowl combine cookie mix, pie spice, molasses, nuts, and oil.  Then add puree and stir until well combined.  Sometimes I have to knead it by hand like dough to get it to mix properly.  

Scoop out by the tablespoonful onto ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes.  Transfer from baking sheet to a cooking rack.  As a final touch, dust cookies with powdered sugar.

This recipe makes approximately 18-24 cookies depending on size.  I like them best with a cup of Irish Breakfast or Dandelion Root Tea.

Peachy Plaid

   

I woke up to the first chilly morning we've had so far.  The fall equinox is almost here and with it comes the official start of autumn!  It's finally time to break out the hot cocoa, cozy sweaters and scarves, and the various be-pumpkined decorations.  Fall is also the time for blazers and plaid skirts to make their debut as children head back to school.

I know that school actually started ages ago, but nothing says "back to school" to me better than a plaid skirt.  There is a place for plaid beyond the nostalgia of childhood though.  To me they say warmth and elegance even on the coldest days.  So, whether it's for studies or parent-teacher meetings, or just curling up by the fire with a hot cuppa and a good book, put on some plaid and welcome fall.

How do you wear your fall plaid?

Here are a few other plaid darlings that I'm crazy about:

 Forever 21 Plaid A Line Skirt in sizes XS-L for $14.90
Or in Sizes XL-3X for $17.90

Vila Hanky Hem Check Skirt at Asos for $69.00 in sizes XS (4)--L (10)

 Equation Occasion Jumper in Emerald at ModCloth for $69.99 in sizes XS-XL

Hometown Hero Plaid Midi Skirt in Orange at Ruche for $42.99 currently available in sizes S-M
Hometown Hero Plaid Midi Skirt in Navy at Ruche for $42.99 currently available in sizes S-M

Travel: Okinawa

    I love those bloggers who take gorgeous photos of themselves traveling to all manner of enchanted locations in fabulous outfits.  I love them!  I wish I could be like them!.....but I can't.  I travel practically, rather than fashionably, and that means traveling light.  I only take one bag, usually a back pack.  There is no space for hair tools or products, minimal make-up, and any clothing (typically things that can be thrown away to make room for souvenirs) will be hopelessly wrinkled.  Add to that the fact that I'm stressed and not sleeping well, and when it comes to photos on the road, I am a complete mess.  

  There is freedom in acceptance, so I don't worry about the perfect fashion photo at times like these, and I definitely don't pack any of my favorite dresses.  When it's travel time, I have to step back from the blog, as much as I love it, and be in the moment.  We're out there to make beautiful memories.  It really is the experiences, the feelings, the little moments that I want to remember and that's what I try to focus my heart and my camera lens on.  As much as I wish I had tons of great outfit photos to share in exotic locations, I have none.  And I mean not one...from pretty much any trip...ever.  

    Our latest trip to the beautiful island of Okinawa was spent with one day at the world's second largest aquarium, two glorious days at the beach and two days of waiting at the airport for a flight home.  It ended with about an hour of trekking in the rain with no umbrella (it was too early to even stop and buy one).  We were soaked.  Our bags were soaked.  But the peacefulness of early morning, and the calm of a warm rain combined with all my loved ones, healthy, safe and sound, walking in a row to the pitter-patter of the raindrops--it was perfect.  And of course it was followed by that oh, so delicious feeling of a cozy pair of sweat pants, a hot cup of tea, and being home again.

Thrifty Business: ootd

    You shouldn't have to break the bank to earn a buck.  Of course you should look your best at the office, but that doesn't necessarily mean you have to spend a ton of money to do so.  Bargains abound at back-to-school time and by shopping the sales and the thrift store, I've put together a complete look for about $60.

Shop the Look:

Express cardigan from ThredUp $11.54
Ann Taylor Loft Blouse from ThredUp $4.53
Orchid Skirt from Uniqlo  $7.00
With Haute a Doubt Heels from ModCloth $30.99
Chunky Necklace from K-mart  $5
Total outfit cost:  $59.06

Interested in shopping at ThredUp?  Use this link to sign up & save $20 off your first purchase!  http://www.thredup.com/r/WKVOY5

Thred Up

    If you've read my blog for very long, you've probably seen items in my outfits labeled as "second hand" or "thrift shop."  I've always been a fan of Resale shops  and I've recently found an online shop that I adore.
     It's called ThredUp  and unlike sites like Ebay or PoshMark this is not a market place where you buy from individual sellers and have to pay a separate shipping rate each time.  Instead you pay a very low shipping fee for orders under $70 and anything over $70 has free shipping plus free returns.  A portion of your sale can go to the school of your choice, and in addition to all that you can box up your stuff and send it to them to sell for you.

 
    While the price of items is a slightly higher than I would normally pay for individual items at a brick and mortar thrift shop, the condition is also much better.  Items are thoroughly checked for defects and of the two orders I've placed with ThredUp in the last few months since learning about them everything I received was in perfect condition.
    Use this link to save $20 off your first purchase.  http://www.thredup.com/r/WKVOY5
This is one site that I'm more than happy to promote, because it has so much going for it.  Send me your ThredUp outfit pics and I'll use them in a future post!