CALIFORNIA CLOSET

all good things are wild & free

2011-12-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

Henry David Thoreau once said, "all good things are wild & free," and I could not agree more. Capturing the essence of a free spirit with a passion for nature/fashion/art and anything beautiful is Miss Corina Alulquoy Brown.

I did a post on this designer/photographer from Santa Barbara awhile back and since then her Etsy shop, Wild & Free has grown exponentially. She is so creative and is constantly coming out with new headdresses, jewelry and now boots!

Inspired by these Free People Luxury Jones boots

that will have you down $438 (and that's without tax)..

Corina takes vintage boots and handcrafts these badboys for much cheaper.

I am completely enamoured with these boots and I NEED TO GET MY HANDS ON A PAIR.. Not only are they super funky & cool, but they are completely one of a kind.. these boots are made for walkin'.

HA, sorry, HAD TO.. couldn't help it.

There's a contest going on until tomorrow to win a pair!

LIKE Wild & Free on Facebook here!

To see more of Corina's amazing designs, check out here ETSY shop here!

'Tis the Season

2011-12-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love when the weather starts getting crisp and layering becomes a must. Sometimes I wish I lived some place cold ALL the time because I love sweaters, tights and layer upon layer.. Alas, I'll make due with the few chilly weeks we get here in Southern California.

Current inspiration to keep me sane during finals week (I can't believe it's already finals week... of my freshman year in college. Is this real life?)

PC: PlanetBlue, Swell, FreePeople, CheyenneMeetsChanel, Hurley

Christmas/Birthday Wishlist:

Boots (always), fun tops to layer from Free People & Billabong, Scarves/Beanies, Laptop Case, Body by Burberry, yoga pants x82438094823, RayBans (my other ones got stolen at work -_-) and a camera! What's on your list this year?

We shot our family Christmas cards last night.. here's a sneak peak.

Hehehehe

butterflies in her eyes

2011-10-24T09:24:00.000-07:00

In all seriousness, I live in a fantasy world.. and most of the time I actually believe I'm walking around in some sort of butterfly mask/costume. Only today I made that visible for the rest of the world. :)

| dress XTAREN | shoes STEVE MADDEN |

Photography by Gayle Dawn

What The Water Gave Me

2011-10-19T21:01:00.000-07:00

| Open Back Top | Lace Flouncy Dress | Bullet Boots |

.. ALL FREEPEOPLE, just a tad obsessed

Photography by Gayle Dawn

School is overwhelming... should have gone to fashion school over the university. Just neeeeeda get through these GE's to be where I wanna be. 'Cept I can't help but draw in class.

Personally, I think this is more productive anyways.

No More What If's

2011-09-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

On average, humans spend 6 years dreaming.. 6 years of wishing, wanting and hoping for the "What If's" in life. Every day that passes is another day wasted and the world robbed of that passion; so stop. Stop asking "What If" and start saying "Let's". Don't settle--for anything, for that is just a cheap imitation of the life you were meant live.

Finally a minute to breathe, I've been going 10 million miles an hour lately-- the university is keeping me jam packed and I absolutely love every minute of it. I'm not settling, I'm not sitting back, I'm making my dreams a reality one step at a time.

Working on a bunch of designs/ideas and things for the future; can't wait to share after midterms!

For the current moment, I'm absolutely enamored with the new LF Lookbook. Enjoy ;)

parisian affair

2011-08-24T04:13:00.000-07:00

It's difficult letting go of something that you've wanted for so long.. dreamed about for ages and was constantly on your mind. (ie. a handsome boy, a pair of kick ass jeans, an adorable little puppy or creme brulee)

But, in this case, after many long awaited years and dreams about the magical day i would prance down the streets of Paris... I'm not letting go forever. I gave France and everything in it the most heartfelt AU REVOIR (which isn't just goodbye.. because where's the good in that? but literally translates to "until the next seeing time."

So thank you Paris, for everything, and I'll be seeing you soon. Avec que (with that -Yes, I even buffed up my francais skills) I give an American GOODBYE to my hiatus and return to blogging just in time for school.

For those that are lucky enough to visit Paris here are a few things I would HIGHLY suggest (I apologize that they are quite touristy things.. I hate feeling like a tourist, but I'll have to reupdate when I live there someday)

*STEAK-FRITES for Dinner (Steak & French Fries)

We fell in love with this little place near our hotel - Le Relais de Venise, the line was CONSTANTLY out the door.. almost an hour wait but we ended up eating here twice it.. it was that good.

*COFFEE & BOULANGERIES, LOTS OF THEM.

Dining in Paris can be extremely expensive, but many of the days we opted to pick up lunch while we got our morning croissants. Salmon sandwiches, salad and something sweet for 10euro? YEAH, much more economical.

*COFFEE, again. We drank LOTS and LOTS of cafe au lait-- and believe me, these little street cafe's with tables and chairs lining the outsides are SO much better than Starbucks. No comparison there.

*EIFFEL TOWER, obviously. Impeccable view from Tracadero hill where that first image was snapped. We didn't actually go up in the tower-- too impatient to wait in the 2 hour line and WAY TOO many gypsies/street vendors creeping around.

*METROS, saved my poor feet & cash from buying a pass.. and I also learned how to use the metros! Which for anyone that lives in LA is quite an accomplishment.. California should really invest in a subway system, just sayinnn'

*CATACOMBS, granted we had to wait in a 2 hour line (which wasn't so bad as we took turns getting latte's at the cafe right next to it). Very gross, very cool and kind of creepy.. These old mines turned into mass graves go on for 45 minutes of walking with bones piled high everywhere. Some even with designs-- I don't blame the people that had to stack the bones though.. I would have gotten bored too. Unfortunately, my brand new boots got covered with bone juice. YES, bone juice. It was quite moist in the tunnels and in places the ceiling would be dripping. So if you plan on going-- where close toed shoes you don't fancy too much. My mother wore flip flops.... ew.

*PERE LACHAISE CEMETARY, just because in another life I was married to Jim Morrison. And I also fancy cemeteries.. I find them extremely eerie & cool at the same time and these graves are absolutely beautiful/vintage.

*SHOPPING, SHOPPING, SHOPPING. The street markets (only open on certain days) have some pretty spiffy little knick knacks, but I did my fair share of shopping at H&M. Yeah.. I know, it's not Chanel or YSL by any means, but I prefer the European ones WAY more than the ones here. Another little store I fell in love with was "NafNaf"-- very classy and modest clothing that kind of look like you might be in a dollhouse.. but in a good way.

*STROLLING AT NIGHT, around the Seine & Louvre.. Absolument magnifique! The lights, the reflections in the water, and the essence of everything becomes so much more magical, I think. Every hour the Eiffel Tower lights up for 5 minutes in a dazzling show of glittering lights that adds to the indescribable "je ne sais pas" romance that France has. And, during the summer months (not sure about the rest of the year) you'll find many young Parisians dancing, singing, playing guitar and drinking along the Seine at night.. it's quite beautiful (they prefer drinking here opposed to a bar because it's much cheaper, and personally I find it more romantic.. I mean, who wouldn't want to fall in love on the Seine?)

I did not care for the stupid boat tours - BATEAUX MOUCHES. Waste of money, views aren't that great (other than the classy bum pictured up there) and FILLED TO THE BRIM with some of the strangest tourists I've ever seen.. But, it is quite entertaining for people watching if you're into that sorta thing-- which I totally am.

On my return I would still like to do the following:

-Actually go inside the Louvre

-Visit Pigalle/Moulin Rouge.. nicknamed "Pig Alley" for all the sex shops/prostitues on the street, but I think it'd be fun to check out.

-Tour L'Opera Garnier (I've heard the idea for the lake in Phantom of the Opera is based on the one underneath this place!)

-Bikeriding, because who wouldn't want to go on a bikeride in Paris?

-Wine-Tasting and Dancing, in that order.

-Be one of the young Parisians romancing the night away on the Seine

-Vintage/thrift shopping, and do more research on where to

And I'm sure there's a whole lot more.. but for now, au revoir!

going west... to the pacific

2011-07-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

howdy y'all! i had big plans to be blogging 24/7 after i got my tonsils out last week.. and as it turns out, the pain meds i've been having to take don't allow me to remain awake for more than a couple hours. Leaving me extremely unproductive, loopy and lazy. But hey, I've definitely caught up on all the sleep I've been missing for like the past year.

But... My TO-DO LIST REMAINS THE SAME

-Paris Schedule

-Europe Outfits/Shopping List

-Take pictures/update shop

-Start music blog!

-Finish mom's web design

-Finish my new web design

... the list goes on.

ANYWHO, Wildfox Couture released their brand new swimwear collection this past week in Miami! SO wish I could have been there, but the pictures/lookbook will due for now :)

pc 1 & 2

check out my interview/feature on The Daily Dani!

summer lovin'

2011-07-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

"Oh, in the sun, sun having fun

It’s in my blood"

Erin Wasson

French Elle - June 2011

Photographed by Fred Meylan

photos from fashiongonerogue

There is nothing better than being able to lounge in the sun whenever and not worry about hair and makeup.. I'm enjoying these lazy summer days.

I've had so many e-mails and comments regarding my playlist that I've decided to put together a little music bloggy for y'all.. it's in the works. Speaking of music, seeing Foster the People on Thursday! S T O K E D

Oh and.. a few pictures my mother took on the 4th.. the madness that is downtown Huntington

Beach is definitely not captured here, ha. This is only the beginning.

a california summer

2011-06-27T01:34:00.000-07:00

emma foutz, this is for you.

cheers!

Lace Top UrbanOutfitters

Peach Shorts Planet Blue

Leather & Turquoise Belt

Fringe Bag Buffalo Girl

Sandals Wanted

White Tie Up Blouse NastyGal

Guadalajara Shorts Planet Blue

Teal Lace Bandeau Free People

Sunglasses House of Harlow

Strappy Gladiator Sandals Free People

White Eyelet Top Free People

Lightwash Flare Jeans Hudson

Necklace Spell Designs

Bracelet LuckyFlirts

Shoes Jeffrey Campbell

Red Open Back Top NastyGal

Denim Cut Offs RunwayDreamz

American Flag Turban Luna B

Thin Off-White High Tops

Bone & Tassel Bag Spell Designs

Aztec Kaftan NastyGal

Lemon-Lime Lace Bandeau Free People

Open Back Romper Free People

Off White Canvas Backpack UrbanOutfitters

Sandals Steve Madden

Songbird Kaftan Arnhem the Label

Crochet One Piece Free People

Cut Off Levis

Thin Black Sandals Rainbow

Sunglasses Crap Eyewear

Off the Shoulder Cherry Red Dress Free People

Bikini Hurley

Leather & Skull Bracelet Spell Designs

Floppy Black Hat

Bag Jamin Puech

Basically this is what I would be wearing.. given my wallet would allow it.

Hope this can serve as some inspiration for these coming summer weeks.. and i'm interested to know-- what would you wear/what's your summer muse/favorite piece?

I'm attached at the hip to my cut off Levi shorts.. literally.

infinite x's and o's,

Chelsea

Rapunzel, Rapunzel.. Let Down Yo Hair

2011-06-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

last few remaining pictures from graduation.. running in the park with ducks and one of my best friends
dress Free People armband Bangladesh belt swap meet

i've gotten a lot of questions about how i do my hair and lemme let you in on a little secret

MY HAIR WAS TRASHED after i went from blonde-brown-ombre-blonde..

The integrity of it was NOT what it had been.. because I bleached the absolute crap out of it, and the shine/softness I had once had was long gone.

I tried numerous hair masks from Sally's and all that jazz, which helped, but not significantly.

Thankfully, when we were in Maui I forgot to pack shampoo/conditioner and my dad picked up some from the store. Came back with these bad boys and OH MY GOD my hair felt almost brand new.

Since returning from Maui I've started using the 3 Minute Repair also by Garnier Fructis and it is like magic in a bottle. Best part about it, it's like $5 a bottle.. MIRACLE TREATMENT RIGHT HERE.

After washing my do I put in a plethora of different products.. probably not the ones any stylist would recommend, but I'm not down with spending $60 on some creamy substance that's gonna run out in a month. HI, I'D RATHER SPEND IT ON CLOTHES.

The purple bottle is an Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting Mousse, it kind of helps add body a little bit.. but I mainly use it cuz it makes my hair smell delicious, and kinda like a fruit smoothie. And who wouldn't want to go around smelling like a delicious fruit smoothie?

The second is once again Garnier Fructis.. i feel like a walking ad or something, but this stuff seriously works that well. It's the Nutrient Spray for "Dry to Over-Drived or Damaged Hair" HI, THAT'S ME. It's basically a leave in conditioner, and I like it because it's a spray opposed to a dense cream or something.

The last 2 products I swear by.. which are a little more pricey, but definitely work are by Prive. The Flash Brilliance and Shine Serum are the perfect duo for protecting and keeping hair sleek when applying heat.

You can tell the Flash Brilliance is almost gone, needa stock up again.. but I use this before curling my hair and the Shine Serum is PERFECT after curling/blow drying/flat ironing.
I think these are between $20-$35 at my salon.

Oh yeah, and my hair is naturally bone straight.. so when I curl it, I use either a 1 inch barrel or 2 inch, depending on how much body/looseness I'm going for. I start near the root and wrap the section of hair around the curling iron, as if I'm using the wand.

My final favorite product is Surf Hair Texture Paste by Garnier Fructis. You know that sought after Ijustgotbackfromthebeachandmyhairlooksthisgood surfer girl hair? YEAH, this stuff makes yo hair do that.. only minus the salt water and sand. After curling my hair, or if I slept with it in a loose bun-- I take between a dime/quarter size amount and spread it all ova my fingers and lightly twist and tousle my locks with it.

SHAKA BRAH

raindrops on roses

2011-06-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

... these are a few of my favorite things

er, well, blogs.

ECCENTRICDAYDREAM

WOLFANDWILLOW

LIGHTDRIVESMYSOUL

i highly suggest checking them out.. these ladies are pretty damn incredible.

PS. I graduated.

FINALLY.

better late than never...

2011-06-13T23:09:00.000-07:00

senior portraits!

been sporting this thrifted peach sparkly jacket the past couple days, and i cannot get enough of it.

(and it came with a peachy/nude maxi skirt, $15 for the set, WHAT WHAT!)

almost famous, almost...

2011-06-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

A long, long time ago.. I lost my heart to rock'n'roll. Wildfox Couture and I must be on the same wave length or something, because I definitely was watchin' Almost Famous two or three weekends ago and was so inspired by the grungy and effortlessly sexy & carefree vibe of all the styling.

I've got some designs in the works right now and I'm so excited to get my shipment of beads & bones in.. hellooo arts & crafts!

more images here~~*

I swear in another life...

2011-06-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

I was a mermaid.

Summer, GET AT ME.

Starfish Headband available HERE

missin' ny

2011-06-10T21:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a collection of some of my favorite photos from the adventure to New York.

I'm SO bummed, the REAL Ray-Bans I splurged on during the trip got stolen within a week of me buying them.. so not cool.

I've been dead the past week.. from life, from school, from blogging. i woke up tuesday morning and my tonsils were the size of golfballs, i had a fever of 102 and i couldn't eat, drink, swallow or anything. thankfully, I'm on hardcore antibiotics and painkillers right now and they're definitely workin' they're magic. BUT, I am scheduled to get my tonsils out in the next couple weeks. WAHOOO.

this is the end

2011-06-03T01:05:00.000-07:00

did a graduation photoshoot for one of my best friend's the other day (just like her i'm lagging on sending out my announcements, eeep).. and i think they turned out pretty darn swell, if i do say so myself.

graduation is just around the corner and i couldn't be more excited to be done with high school

i'll be catching up on blog comments later.

oh and i fashioned this little body chain a couple of days ago

super simple & super easy

up in the air

2011-05-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

Flying most of the day.. ended up in NYC at 11 pm. We were starving when we arrived at Serendipity as we hadn't eaten anything since 1 PM. No real food being served because of the late hour -- only dessert and coffee. Frozen hot chocolate and apple pie sundaes for dinner, wudddup!

Ps. I'm never leaving here. I love it.

I even sort of love how the taxis smell like ass.

Getting up in 3 or so hours to start the day, YEAH, I know.. so much to do, so little time.

i'll keep you wild

2011-05-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

in absolute head over heals awe with the newest planet blue lookbook..

srsly, taking notes and mental images.
this WILL BE my summer wardrobe!

pc: planetblue

pirate's cove

2011-05-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

So.. I'm gonna be in New York this weekend and I'm looking for suggestions on what to do/places to go! I've been there before, but anyone that lives in the city or frequents it often, lemme know you're insider opinion!

And, a BIIIIIG thank you to Wanted Shoes for sending me these boots!

I've been living in these babies for the past couple days and I literally don't want to take them off.

If you're like me and haven't heard of Wanted Shoes before, you should DEFINITELY check out their site. They've got a huge selection and at REALLY good prices. The boots I'm wearing above are really similar to a pair from Steve Madden that are about $200.. these ones are $80, boooooyah!

I had a hard time picking out my favorites.. here are my top picks.

Oh and wudddddup Free International Shipping! Yeah, I don't mind that at all. :)

SHOP HERE! wantedshoes

^^ Aren't you just OBSESSED with her vest? That's my girl, Olivia :)

just a few photos from our adventure to pirate's cove.. i've been told there are skeletons behind the bars?

it was too dark/tide was coming into the cave so we couldn't venture any farther and find out.. and i'm too much of a pansy, but hey, if anyone's ever in the newport/cdm area this place is absolutely beautiful!

*minus the possible skeletons... ha

star spangled shorts

2011-05-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the air warming up and the taunting of summer's arrival.. or maybe I'm just feelin' super patriotic, but I am diggin' the up and coming American flag trend.

pc NastyGal and a bunch of random tumblrs.. sorry!

And RunwayDreamz, I love you.. but I'm not forking up $120 for a pair of shorts. So, I MADE MY OWN. Muahhahahah, wow.. sorry, really weird mood.. must be the paint fumes.

Kidding.

Oh and look at the LuckyFlirts bracelet I received from Shea Marie of Cheyenne Meets Chanel!
I LALALALA LOVE it.

keepin' it classy

2011-05-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

it's that time of year... here come the pictures from my senior prom!

HYPE THIS!

I have not taken off this ring since I got it!

I designed my dress and my hair stylist referred me to Cheryl Sheldon. Interested in having a dress custom made by her? Send me an e-mail and I'll forward you her contact info. Her work is absolutely beautiful! She makes a ton of couture wedding gowns and works very closely with Disney for all of their parade costumes!

Turquoise Cross Ring from TFH

And a few more from the night and adventure to watch the sunrise at the Top of the World in Laguna

i'm gonna go recover now..

taking pictures of taking pictures

2011-05-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

Yellow Eyelet Top Free People

DIY Cut off Levis/Seven Jeans

Stone Fringe Boots Very Volatile

Cross Ring by Jenna of TFH

Gold & Leather Watch Michael Kors

Hat Hurley

HYPE THIS!

We had a family photoshoot done tonight... here are a few photos that my brother took while the shoot was in place, or how he likes to say he was "taking pictures of taking pictures."

Second Set:

Floral Print Kaftan Nordstroms

DIY Cut Off Levis

Stone Fringe Boots Very Volatile

BAG by Spell Designs

I'm so excited to see the pictures he took! And they'll definitely be up as soon as I get my hands on them..

PROM is tomorrow, I'm picking up my dress early in the morning, gettin' my hair did and then off for shenanigans. SO SO SO excited, and I hope you all have a fantastic weekend.. I know I will. :)

Moonchild

2011-05-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning to an e-mail from my grandma with these photos.. thought they were the coolest thing ever and had to share.

Oh and I discovered at Kinko's last night, they have photo printing machines that can whip out whatever size you want supppppper cheap and really quick! I had to mass print a graphic I designed and the OfficeDepot's attempt to print it came out really crappy. The color was too dark and it was going to be over $100, but NOPE, Kinko's was extremely helpful, $23, and the image came out perfectly.

If you're ever wanting to make a collage of sorts and need to mass print photos-- do it there. You literally can have a bunch of photos from a USB drive or CD, put it into the machine and voila! It's a beautiful thing.

PS. is anyone else having trouble with the photo uploader? Every time I try it says "Server Rejected"

a day in the life

2011-05-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

Guess who's going to New York in a couple weeks?!?

THIS GIRL!

And I am beyond stoked, 5 days in the city with just my mama and meeting up with my friend from Switzerland.. good food, good clothes, good pictures!

Ah, I'm already dreaming about what I should pack. Any suggestions?

Yesterday I met up with Jenna from The Freckled Husky and had a blast.. seriously, we hit it off right away and I couldn't have asked for a better DIY partner in crime. :)

We started off our day searching through endless amounts of fabric and fringe and made our way to a thrift shop. And dude, lemme tell ya... we SCORED big time. Our carts were overflowing with old levis and vintage tees, we literally looked like hobos with the amount of stuff we had piled on top of them.

Yes... those are troll earrings. No.. unfortunately, I didn't get them. I was, however, considering wearing them with my prom dress.

Just kittttttten!

After our thrifting adventure, we made it back to my house for some DIY projects.

Jenna's fringe shorts turned out so rad! And I am lovin' my RunwayDreamz inspired denim shorts.

And Miss Sweet Thang gave me one of her INCREDIBLE rings! I haven't taken the thing off.. I mean, common now, it's turquoise.

Shop Jenna's rings HERE!

And a few more of my DIY projects from yesterday/today

And I've still got more to show ya.. ha, this is quite a heavy post, I've been off having a life, so uh yeah.. :)

PS. I got asked to Prom in the most adorable way, ever.

A trip to a vinyl record store in Costa Mesa (where we met Spiderman), followed by lunch at The Gypsy Den.

Moseyed on over to Inspiration Point on Newport Coast and was serenaded by my guitar playing boy (who is recording his demo album this summer, woo!)

Up to this quaint little movie theater where spelled out above the water fountain was "PROM?" and the lady behind the counter gave me a bunch of roses.

Yes, I am aware of how wrong this picture is...

It was wonderful, to say the least, and I am so EXCITED for PROM this coming weekend!

And a few randoms from the week

Justin Bieber's coming out of his pants..

In honor of mother's day I had my mama pick the giveaway winner..

*drum roll please*

Jade from eccentric daydream!

Congrats lady, an email will be sent your way :)

Lucky Flirts

2011-05-04T09:15:00.000-07:00

There are two things in this world that I admittedly have an addiction to.. a cold, hard addiction.

CLOTHES AND TURQUOISE JEWELRY.

So it was to my utmost delight when I stumbled upon LuckyFlirts jewelry months ago. Shea Marie of CheyenneMeetsChanel is constantly sporting the turquoise and gold accented bracelets. They all have such a funky vibe and are the PERFECT accent to any outfit. I always layer and layer my bracelets, but these ones.. it's already done for you. (And they're prettttttttty!)

I honestly don't think I'd be able to take something like this off!

The designer, Francesca Ramirez, wanted to create something that separated her jewelry from other people's and matcher her personality/style.. and I don't blame her! This girl's got such an eye, and every piece is unique. I love the dangling charms, whether they be hamsa's, skulls, or the evil eye.

Unfortunately, her site doesn't have an online shop yet.. but her line is carried at Kitson and a couple places throughout L.A. I definitely think she needs move her products into the beachside communities, especially the Huntington/Laguna area, don't you? :)

There is a giveaway on CheyenneMeetsChanel for this GORGEOUS bracelet designed by Francesca & Shea.
You can enter at the above link or place an order for any of the other bracelets.
JUST KIDDING, just found out I won the bracelet! WOOOHOOOO, but you should definitely check out the rest of her stuff.. Seriously, it's to DIE FOR.

for more check out luckyflirts

DREAMCATCHER SHIRT GIVEAWAY

2011-04-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

After posting these tees a little over a month ago, I've racked up quite the list of people that want to purchase one and they're in high demand. I am beyond stoked! Not only do I get to paint tees and share my designs with others, but I'm making mooolah. I couldn't ask for a better situation!

As a way to receive feedback, I'm giving away one of my LIMITED EDITION DREAMCATCHER TEES to one of you lucky followers!

TO ENTER:

1. Follow via Bloglovin'

2. Facebook 'Like It'

3.

**Specify your favorite design AND what other designs you would like to see!**
Don't forget to include your e-mail!

Giveaway ends Friday 5/6 at 11:59pm

PS. I always like to hear why you want to win and how you would style it. :)

Interested in getting a custom made tee?

Send me an e-mail at seecaliforniasea@gmail.com

or visit my ETSY Shop!

Could I Have That

2011-04-28T01:10:00.000-07:00

There's a reason why LUNA B is one of my favorite boutiques, and this is just one of the many..

They posted the below picture a couple of weeks ago.. and these watches sold out LIKE THAT.

I fell in love with the turquoise one smack dab in the middle and have been drooling over it ever since.. These watches are Italian made, genuine leather, and BEAUTIFUL.

Since Luna sold out so quickly, they're putting on a special deal until May 2nd.

Place an order now, pay half, and then pay the rest in two weeks when it arrives. They're cheaper from Luna than the actual website (go figure).. sounds like a good deal to me. Definitely taking advantage of this!

You can view other watches and even customize your own on lamercollections.com

To place an order with Luna go to their FACEBOOK page!

Current Wishlist

1. Cheyenne bracelet by LuckyFlirts

being given away on cheyennemeetschanel

2. Free People Lace Insert Pullover

3. Pendleton Messanger Bag

4. Riddgge Wedges from Steve Madden

5. Planet Blue Skull Tee

6. Wildd Wedges from Steve Madden

7. Free People Puddle Jumper Romper

too bad i don't have $1000 to blow..

but the following will be arriving in the mail shortly! :)

$35 from NastyGal

On Sale @ Steve Madden $34.95, helllll yeahhhhh.

whoever made this is my hero

i'm going to burn a hole in my pocket.. i need a job -_-

PS. I'm o b s e s s e d with the hipstamatic app for my iPhone.. and i'll be adding more items to my shop shortly! (I'm taking a million and half pics with the app, ha)

Oh and like my brothers track tan line? Scccheeexy.

Foxy Mamaz

2011-04-27T13:19:00.000-07:00

No amount of words would be able to to describe how much I am in complete in and utter awe of the new Planet Blue lookbook featuring Mandy from Oracle Fox.

Seriously cannot get over how PERFECT this is.

On a different note.. my Blackberry crapped out yesterday and there was no hope for bringing it back to life.. With that, I lost all my contacts, BUT, I am now the proud owner of an iPhone!

Hehehez, just a little excited..

Oh and here's a necklace I bought one of the last days in Maui! I'm changing out the chain though.. not a huge fan of how chunky it is.

ANNDDDD, GIVEAWAY will be starting TOMORROW!

Check back for info :)

Does everyone else feel summer coming? Graduation is right around the corner and I'm craving those warm summer days so badly right now.. 6 MO WEEKS.

xx chels

tough stuff

2011-04-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Do you ever think about how delicate life really is? How many different events have lead up to you being here, right now, at this present moment? What if your parents had never met, or your mom ended up marrying that ex-boyfriend.. What if?

I found out yesterday that one of my favorite teacher's daughter killed herself the other day.. and it came as a huge shock. I cannot fathom what her family is going through or what was going on in her mind. Having been 15 (and God knows we all go through that stage), I can understand how difficult life can be sometimes, especially for a teenage girl. So many things to worry about-- whether it be school, boys, appearance, and all that other non important stuff.. but it was around 15 when my mind started to really expand and I would think about the tough stuff-- the reason for existence and purpose in life, the questions, "Why are we here? Why am I here? What is the point to life?" And those can be some of the scariest questions to ask yourself. Granted, I haven't seen her in a number of years and I don't know if that's what was really going on.. but it hurts my heart to think that she had no more hope in the world and couldn't see the beauty in the life God had given her.

"Doctor: What are you doing here, honey? You're not even old enough to know how bad life gets.

Cecilia: Obviously, Doctor, you've never been a 13-year-old girl." --The Virgin Suicides

I apologize if that put a damper on anyone's day, but it was consuming my mind yesterday...

And I apologize even more that I'm going to jump into two completely other subjects, not trying to make the above less important.. actually, nevermind. Not apologizing, this is my blog, my thoughts and if others care to indulge in them, then they very well may.

Continuing on

On our last day in Maui we toured one of my favorite parts of town.. I hate using that word, "toured," mainly because I don't like to consider myself a tourist. Hi, I'm not wearing a fanny pack, bumping into everything, losing my way and being obnoxious (or at least I don't think..) I'd like to consider myself more of a "traveler of the world" a nomad of sorts, maybe even a gypsy soul? Ha, yeah, let's go with that. So we didn't actually take a tour, but we shopped around, a lot, and met some of the most interesting people.

There's this huge banyan tree that is the kind of center & heart of the town, Lahaina. Yesterday there was a swap meet going on with all sorts of goodies.. jewelry, paintings, tiki sculptures and ocarinas.

If you are the cute ocarina playing boy that inconspicuously took a picture of me on his phone.. Please, GET AT ME. I was too shy to actually say hi.

Returning home to California today, not sure how I feel about going back to school at the moment.. Although I am excited to get back to making stuff with my new found inspiration!

I started working on a ton of shirt designs, am scouting for high waisted jean shorts, and am going to be purchasing a bulk supply of beads/chains.

TO DO list:

-Make these RunwayDreamz inspired bad boys with Jenna from thefreckledhusky

-These bracelets with my girl Lexi, check out her brand new blog alwayssprout

-Finish redesigning my room and actually decide on colors.. kind of digging these as wall hangers?

wednes-diy free people

I'm o b s e s s e d with the body chains + harnesses that Ashley of purse 'n boots frequently rocks.. 'cept I'm not spending $150 on one. So, I'm gonna be making my own!

(pc fashiontoast, pursenboots, planetblue, freepeople)

If all goes well, I'll end up adding some to my blog shop!

This post has been all over the place.. ending it on a lighter note, going to go join my fam for Easter breakfast now and then I'm leavin' on a jetplane for the mainland. Goodbye Maui, hello California.

All I can do is look up and say, "thank you."

Road to Hana

2011-04-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

5 hour drive there, 5 hour drive back.. and so worth it.

The Road to Hana is filled with amazing views-- waterfalls, vast valleys and rocky cliffs. That's not including the numerous pit stops proclaiming to serve the "best banana bread in the world" and that arboretums filled with amazing plants and birds. We got chased by wild mongoose (mongeese?) outta the jungle.. and ended up at the incredible Seven Sacred Pools.

(this was taken in an ancient burial ground)

Crochet Shorts made by me

White Flowy Top Luna B

Turquoise & Gold Necklace Mahina

Hat Hurley

**Will definitely be doing a giveaway when I get back!**

ike kala makia

2011-04-21T02:50:00.000-07:00

maui adventure round two..

Sheer Paisley Print Top Luna B

Denim Shorts Hurley

Black Floppy Hat Mama's Closet

Gladiator Sandals Keestom (from last trip to Maui)

on my mother

Tie Dye Halter Maxi Dress Mahina (one of our favorite stores in Maui)

Ventured on down to hippie town, also known as PAIA, for some shoppppin! Unfortunately most of the stores closed early, but we'll be making another stop there tomorrow. I saw the most gorgeous body chain/harness that I'm dying for.

Hope all is well, I know it sure is on my side of the island :)

aloha from paradise

2011-04-20T03:45:00.000-07:00

Went on a little adventure with the fam around the island.. Here are my some of my favorite shots from the day.

masters behind the lenses: my mother & brother

i just do the photo editing for now :)

Thinking of doing another GIVEAWAY soon.. quite possibly within the next few days.

Whose down for some free stuff?

Make sure to like California Closet on Facebook for more updates!

~ALOHA~

DIY Crochet Shorts

2011-04-20T03:15:00.000-07:00

After posting these bad boys yesterday I've had numerous e-mails/comments asking how I made them.. unfortunately I didn't take pictures while doing so, but I'll try my best to explain here!

My mother was cleaning out her closet and had an a pair of high waisted black pants with a bleach stain on the leg and was going to toss them.. but I rescued them. :)

So NUMERO UNO

1. Get a pair of shorts, preferably thrifted and high waisted.

(Mine were originally pants, so I cut/hemmed them to the desired length.)

2. Go to fabric store and get about 6 yards of crochet/lace.

(Mine's about 4-5 inches wide.. There was another crochet pattern I liked even more, but it was like $8 per yard.. NAHHH)

3. Also pick up fabric glue

(I got mine from Michael's, it was like $6 and takes between 3-4 hours to dry)

**you can sew the crochet on, but I was way too lazy to go through that much trouble and this worked just as well and it was easier to fix errors, I think.**

4. Line the crochet up to the edge of the zipper flap and around the top, EVENLY.

(This part is really easy if you've got a seam from the belt loop or something of the sort)

5. Cut this strip, making sure it will fit all the way around to the other zipper flap. Place a thin line of glue and press the crochet down. It helps to do this part in small sections, especially when you have to flip from front/back.

(I took breaks in between to allow it to dry.. otherwise parts were not holding as well when I was flipping the shorts.)

6. Start the next row a little bit underneath the first. You can gauge how much you want them to overlap depending on your material.

(Mine overlaps about 3/4 of a inch).

7. Continue you this all the way down until you reach the crotch area.. here it gets a bit tricky and you'll have to kind of play with the fabric to see how it best fits.

8. Finish off with some of the crochet hanging over the edge of the shorts, let them dry for several hours and TADA!

$20 DIY shorts > $200 Planet Blue shorts

pc fashiontoast, cheyennemeetschanel, planetblue

Hope that helps! If you've got any questions lemme know :)

shaka brah

2011-04-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

Imagine laying in the comfiest king size bed, the plush white comforters all rolled around in. The birds are gleefully chirping outside and the waves keep continuously crashing on the shore. The air is humid smells sweet of salt water.. and banana boat tanning lotion.

HELL YEAH, this was my morning.. I'm in MAUI!
(ps. this picture was taken at sunset.. i'm just sayin' my morning was pretty damn incredible)

Before we left on our travels, I had time to finish my crochet shorts. I had seen these in stores and similar ones on fashiontoast & cheyennemeetschanel.. but i wasn't about to fork up $200 to get them at planet blue. So here's the DIY ones I made!

They're even cuter on, and didn't take too long! Unfortunately I had to get out of my PJ's to get more fabric glue, but hey, we all have to make sacrifices. :)

I was in an arts n' crafts mood and had a spare white tee layin' around... so naturally, I tie-dyed and painted. Here's the latest original shirt I whipped out.

While all y'all were at Coachillin (working on a post, collecting pictures from friends currently-- if you've got any feel free to send them on ova!) I've been gathering inspiration for the coming weeks and creating a mood board of sorts. Here are the latest photos/styles/looks I LOVE:

photos from: spell, oraclefox, wildfox

anyone want to claim dibs on this picture? i can't seem to find the source for it

pc fancy, src783, iloveborntobewild, glitterandpearls, lightnessofbeing **one of my new favorite blogs!, studdedhearts, kustom lookbook

***don't forget to like california closet on facebook! i'm starting to update a lot more on there and post little tidbits of this and that

daisy dukes

2011-04-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

I am lusting after these shorts... every single pair of them. Seriously, these just scream hot summer nights and laying by the beach..

GET IN MY CLOSET

One-of-a-kind custom dyed and studded vintage shorts by Christian Yasser Massuh..

these shorts are pure gold.

Recently been featured in Nylon Mag and Urban Outfitters, soon to hopefully be in MY CLOSET. Ah, in love.

designer's tumblr

shop

facebook

happiness hit her like a train on a track

2011-04-16T02:44:00.001-07:00

Stumbled upon this post on come to our window and I couldn't help but reblog it... everything about it is perfect and leaves me feeling hopeful, enlightened and in a positive mindset. I hope it does the same for you.

DIANE VON FURSTENBURG'S 10 RULES TO LIVE BY

Here they are:

1. Trust yourself.

“The secret to feeling attractive, and to being attractive, is the confidence that comes from knowing who you are and what you believe in.”

2. Accept the passage of time.

“The older you get, the more you should learn to love life and appreciate the beauty that comes with age.”

3. Document your days.

“Carry a camera and create an inspiring visual diary of your life.”

4. Your suitcase symbolizes your life.

“The best way to know a woman is to open her luggage. If she knows how to pack well, it means she understands , and cherishes, how to live a simplified life.”

5. Fashionable friends.

“Choose fashions that make you happy. I hope the clothes I design will become my clients’ best friends. That way, when they open their closets, they will always encounter someone special.”

6. Dress your personality.

“Always choose styles that also accentuate your personality. Don’t use fashion to try and project a different persona. Authenticity is key.”

7. Use your feminine power.

“My mother taught me that being a woman is a privilege because the world revolves around us! It is a precious gift, and its power should be used in a subtle and respectful way.”

8. Your handbag is your guide.

“Before leaving home, check your agenda and organize your bag according to what you have to do that day. Keeping everything in order makes life easier.”

9. Indulge yourself.

“If you are like me, and don’t want to resort to Botox, book regular massages. I’m sure it helps to keep everything firm and in it’s place!”

10. Lead a balanced life.

“The best regimen is to keep moving! Never stop working, travelling and seeking adventure. Drink plenty of water, limit alcohol and sugar and get to your yoga class!

Just Beachy

2011-04-13T21:53:00.000-07:00

Floral Oversized Sweatshirt Luna B

Black Long Sleeve Forevaaa 21

Denim Shorts Hurley

Turquoise Necklace/Ring Vintage

Knee High Fringe Boots Very Volatile

My mama called me up this afternoon and was like, "Hey Chels.. you'll probably like what I'm wearing today.." And I just kind of laughed it off.. like right mother.

First, you've gotta know that my mom and I have THE BEST relationship and we like to share clothes (more like I take her clothes and she never see's them again..) Anyways, she's always impressed with what I can whip up off my bedroom floor (I think) and claims she would never be able to rock anything as funky/stylish.

BUT, obviously she was wrong.. cuz here she is lookin' like a stunnnnna! AND, she brought home some uber chic, beachy, long skirts. Hehe, thanks mother. :)

She is wearing

MY Braided Belt Marilee's Swimwear

MY NECKLACE Vintage

Grey Slouchy Tee Luna B

.. and i am unsure about the origins of that skirt

my kind of summer

2011-04-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

i can't help thinking of The OC every time i see Rachel Bilson.. God, do I love this girl. She's got such a grace & presence to her and somehow ALWAYS looks effortlessly cool.

PS. People from Orange County do not refer to it as "THE OC".. just fyi.

Cheers to you, Summer Roberts.

Oh and BIGGGGG THANKYOU to Broke Girl's Guide! I won this adorable Wildfox tee that I probably will never take off..

Just kiddin, I'll wash it every once in a while ;)

HELLZZZ TO THE YAH, Wildfox tweeted ABOUT ME!

wooooop.. maybe this'll make me famous o.O

take a walk on the wild side

2011-04-13T01:57:00.000-07:00

hey you, yeah, YOU, are you ready for coachella? or are you still trying to figure out what to wear/bring with you? Look no further..

I have literally been drooling over ALL the pieces in this California girl's shop. Corina, the designer, whole heartedly believes that fashion should be a direct reflection of one's self-- therefore, she strives to create unique pieces for every individual. She makes anything from feather extensions, to bone necklaces/headbands/belts.. a true Native heart.

I cannot get enough.. Oh and heads up! If you like Wild & Free on Facebook you'll get the PROMO Code for her SALE this weekend! Woooooop, I'm down.

Oh and she's got an absolutely incredible photography page.. take a look, it's well worth it.

Be Wild. ;)

speaking of prom...

2011-04-12T19:48:00.000-07:00

here are the outtakes from planet blue's next lookbook! (up tomorrow)

and... after spending many hours searching for possibly dresses for prom.. nothing seemed to fancy me

nothing was "me" enough or worth a whopping $500..

SO, I am officially designing my own dress and getting it custom made

I just can't figure out colors yet!

Any ideas?

Oh and just because I feel like a mermaid with wavy hair.. and LOVE this necklace

dreamer's disease

2011-04-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

HOLY MOLY, 100,000 VIEWS!! Ah, that just brings music to my ears.. I'm glad there are others out there that share a similar eye for design/inspiration/outfits.. and to all my followers, you are simply wonderful.

ANYWHO, I am in utter awe of Penelope Sarah from fashion-fade, I stumbled upon her blog and literally went through EVERY single page. She's got incredible style and an insane ring collection (she makes most of them!) Take a look :)

Check out more at fashion-fade

PS. I'm constantly adding new pieces to my store, so make sure to take a look!

doing the deed

2011-04-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

So my bedroom currently looks like a Merchandising floor as I'm Spring cleaning and making piles and piles of clothes that I no longer wear.. One of the things I dislike the most is getting rid of clothes.

At one point I invested my money in that purchase, was so excited about it and envisioned myself wearing it.. and wham bag, wuddddyaknow it's three years later and the piece is sitting unworn in the back of my closet.

So maybe that doesn't happen to everything I own, but I always feel bad about cleaning out my closet thinking to myself.. oh maybe when I lose 20 pounds I'll wear it! Or this would be so cute if I only had this belt/cardigan. But there comes a time when my closet is about to burst and I have to do the deed..

AND GET RID OF CLOTHES.

Now, I donate my fair share of pieces to Goodwill.. don't get me wrong, but more than half of the things in my wardrobe have been worn only once or twice and are in brand spankin' new condition. And when it's a Free People dress or a pair of True Religions, I just don't feel right about donating it to charity.

Is that so wrong of me? Ha, these pieces still have a lottttta wearing to do.. So I figure, why not put my closet up for sale?

I've started a blog page for my closet

SHOP california closet

and i'm slowly adding things to

my etsy

Oh You Fancy, Huh?

2011-04-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

When I grow up I want to be HER.

imfancy blog