Ghosts of Halloweens Past

Happy Halloween friends and followers!

For the past 19 years, we have been reppin' awesome (and some not so awesome) costumes for halloween. Here's a quick glance back over the years and sit tight for a bonus post at the end of the weekend as we relive our weekends and the best and worst costumes of Halloween 2009.

I'm pretty sure this picture is circa 2006/ 2007 ish? This was halloween at camp and of course, we had to go all out. Kanchan (far left) is rockin a MuMu while Julia, Joyce and Grace (the other lovely ladies) are adorable stripes. I went for the army look. Not as balls to the walls as some other costumes, but definatley a fun look for summertime play.

Here we have Charlotte and I wearing the UNFORGETTABLE footie dino PJ's. This was only for a halloween party entrance but is still to date one of my favorite looks. They are currently under my bed and as soon as it gets chilly enough, my dinos will be glowing (they're glow in the dark!).

By popular request, I had to put this infamous picture in. Yet again, not a real Halloween picture (my life is a constant dress up party), but rather was a decoy for Charlotte's Sweet 16 a few years back. The hair is looking nice and straggly, adding to the look I was going for. I will never live this moment or picture down. (The poncho IS straight from Mexico tho!)

Last year, Brad, Janelle, Matt and I went all out for Halloween- and why not!? That's what college is about correct? Brad was looking sharp in the Gumbi suit- he made it the whole night which I was impressed by, that thing must have been HOTT. I went for the classic geek look (word on the street is that its going to be a popular look this year as well). With real dad jeans, a tight white button down and a few of my own flares, I was geekin' up the dance floor in the good ole' O'Connel House. Janelle repped an old dance costume of mine and was the Chiquta Banana Lady. Paired with fish nets, the costume definatley became a little sassy number. And Matt, OH MATT. Who doesn't love Quail man?! Ballsy, bold and pretty casual to wear your whitey tighteys ON TOP of the pants, but hey...looking good.

Halloween is always an amazing time of year - I keep costume ideas brewing in my head for months before it rolls around, hoping to come up with the ultimate costume. These are some of my favorite picks from years passed.

These five sailors pulled together a group costume basically from scratch - minus the hats and cute little anchor necklaces. I thought we did a great job of all looking different, but staying cohesive as well. I love stripes, and who doesn't love a cute sailor. I thought we all did a good job of keeping it classy too. Halloween can lead to hootchy, but it doesn't have to!

Last year, at my first Vassar halloween extraveganza, I was, at the last second, a bumble bee. I bought some pipe-cleaners, put some tape on a yellow dress and some ironic hipster glasses that I thought a cute little bee would wear. Someone asked me to justify this part of the costume, but you know what, I thought it was cute! Sam was Posh, and her boyfriend was Beckham. This was a very well thought out couple costume, and Sam went all out with the wig and everything. She cut the wig herself! Impressive.

Now, with the best halloween costume fo all time, is Mickey's tampon costume. This was a bold idea forsure, controversial, but definately hilarious and well thought out. I think everyone was impressed that A) he thought of it, and B) he had the balls to actually be it. Very, very clever.

Carrie was adorable as Tinkerbell last year. American Apparel's Ice Skater dress was just perfect for this costume - and the wings obviously pull it all together. We also had a Peter Pan in the group, and group or couple costumes always make everything better! Most importantly she didn't let her crutches get in the way of her costume. She might of had a little awkwalk going on, but she rocked it.

I can't wait for Saturday.

Have a SAFE and fun Halloween! Can't wait to see your costumes!

Ouch, that outfit BURNS (my eyes, that is)

Now that the weather is a changing, people think they can throw caution to the wind and dress as they see fit. This is wrong, very, very WRONG. No matter the weather (well, maybe except for ridiculous rain like we had the other night), outfits should remain classy and appropriate despite the weather. Here are some of my LEAST favorites from the past week…


1. Cutoff Bermuda jean shorts with an Ed Hardy black shirt, pink redsox hat and Reef shower shoes. Now there were just SO many issues in this outfit that I actually texted myself the outfit so I could remember to blog about it.

Issue 1: The cutoff jean Bermuda short. I understand sometimes we get artsy, but let’s be realistic, just because it is 60 degrees in late October doesn’t give us the liberty to cut jeans and make them an awkward length for a cut off short.

Issue 2: Ed Hardy. I DETEST Ed Hardy. I think his clothes are tasteless and tacky and if Jon Gosselin is wearing it, I sure as hell would not be taking cues from him. Ditch the Hardy- so trashy.

Issue 3: A PINK redsox hat. Now, I understand a lot of women have these but I find them very sexist. Why does a woman need to wear a PINK hat, can’t she rep the blue, red or white hat like any guy? I also think the pink baseball hat screams “I’m a girl” and they just irk me. (sorry if you have one, you can continue to wear it but know I am judging you)

Issue 4: Reef shower shoes to go to class. Shower shoes are for the shower, every other type of shoe is for class.

2. White SOLO pants with a black thong.

Issue: Tasteless, tacky, trashy, vile, hoochie, slutty and about every other word that means any of those things. For those of you who don’t know, SOLO pants are really tight yoga pants similar to Hardtails or something like that. Now, this chica shouldn’t have been wearing tight white pants to begin with (bitchy, sorry) but really, they’re not flattering on anyone as Kath and I were discussing. Also, I don’t want to know what type of underwear you are wearing and I certainly should not see it. If you don’t want the world to see every crinkle, crack and cellulite cell in your leg- don’t wear white stretch pants- they scream out flaws.

3. American Eagle splatter painted polo shirt with a long sleeve shirt underneath paired Aeropostale jeans (on a college boy mind you).

Issue: American Eagle, Hollister, Aero, Abercrombie were totally all the middle school and high school rage, but the thing is, they should have been left in the high school locker room. It pains Janelle and I when we see such outfits on potentially adorable college boys. Such brands are fine for growing tweens and teens but really should have a minimal place in the college attire. The splatter paint polo really kills me- not only is it splatter painted (which could be cool), but it is splatter painted with “American Eagle” across the chest. Go out naked before going out in a shirt like that.

That's all folks. Keep the good comments coming and remember to dress to impress! XOXO

Back together again. ATLAST.

Back together again.

Two months ago we parted ways to embark on the journey of our sophomore year. It’s hard to believe we’ve been at school this long and Maddie is already on her fall break. As we sit and catch up about everything imaginable, it’s only right that we blog together while we can. SO (Mitchell), SIT TIGHT- LIVE BLOG COMING ATCHA!

This week’s hot topic: what makes the perfect facebook default. The pro pic speaks leaps and bounds about who you are- and then some. What do you want your last nights hookup to remember you as? How about that cutie that sits next to you in law class? Or that bitch from down the hall that calls you crazy and comments on your “frizz”? And seriously, we need to give those ex high school boyfriends something to think about. Maddie and I will take your through the components you need to put your best face forward.

The classic “pretty” pic: This is absolutely essential in the profile picture album. You need to show how you ACTUALLY look before you go all ape shit and hippie on us. People assume that your profile is how you want to portray yourself and so it is really important to do just that. There should be at least one picture in the album of just your shining face so you won’t be confused with the rest of your beautiful friends. Keep it classy, maybe just a simple head shot (full body shots are beyond awkward)…selfies need not apply (this is facebook, NOT myspace).

The group shot: It’s important to show that you can be a social butterfly and people flock to associate with you. Plus, it’s always fun to highlight that awesome group vacation or a huge party you threw. Be sure you actually look good in this picture; this is YOUR profile, make sure YOU shine. If possible, eliminate the solo cups- so not classy or tasteful for a default- and that group shot of you doing a keg stand is absolutely unforgivable.

The goofball: We all have that side and sometimes you just have to let your personality shine through. Whether you’re being an Asian tourist outside of Wal-Mart, about to go fly-fishing, or just goofing around with friends, these profile pictures are often really refreshing. Let’s face it- no want wants to be friends with an uptight croticty biatch so let the good times roll. Even if you don’t look 100% (most days we’re maxing out at 60%), the goof ball shot reminds us we’re all humans and sometimes “girls just wanna have fun”.

“Oh that crazy night” shot: Know those mornings when you spend a solid 4 hours trying to recount everything that you did the night before and the only way to feasible remember is by looking at the pictures from the night before. There’s bound to be at least one good picture in which you look like you are genuinely having a good time (avoid the Asian “my eyes are closed” picture). Also avoid pictures after the downfall of the night- no one wants to see you a) eating pizza b) with eyeliner streaming down your face or c) you passed out on the floor. This picture is an extension of the goofball.


The one too many shots shot: This title is pretty self explanatory and I mean, Maddie and I would never be caught getting too wild ;). This picture shows that you know how to let loose and shows your friends from home that you are having a good time and making some solid memories. This picture needs to be kept classy- don’t be that picture that starts a riot or requires some extensive explanations. As previously explained, your profile picture is a representation of yourself so put your best face forward.

This is me, deal with it shot: Take us for what we are. This is what we like, this is what we do. Let’s just be real and if you can’t handle it- just keep on clickin’.

The profile picture outfit is also an essential, don’t overlook this important detail. Janelle just said, “the only reason my profile picture is my profile picture is because of what I am wearing”. So peeps- we know what we are talking about. Make it look good and make it a memorable outfit (as every outfit should be).

Have a wonderful weekend and know no matter where you are, you're safe in my pocket.

Stores I Like: Pros and Cons

I love shopping, but obviously there are some pros and cons to every store whose clothes I love. So here's what I think.

Urban Outfitters.

Pros - There are a lot of Pros. Urban has a great selection. There is something for everyone, every type of style, and every age. This great range of appeal is extremely appealing. I also tend to look at Urban for being on top of new trends, and having a very non-traditional or non-conventional point of view. They also have a good combination of trendy, sparkley, complicated design items and then just basic t-shirts or plain, but well-fitting jeans. When they have a sale, they have a sale. Their sales are huge, meaning there is a lot on sale, and the items that are on sale are marked down a very significant amount in comparison to their original prices. Another aspect that I particularly enjoy about Urban is their more recent institution of a vintage section of their store. I don't mean just vintage inspired pieces, but real vintage pieces from the real world that Urban brings in. My new boots are from this section, so I have a great apreciation for it.

Okay now the bad stuff.

Cons - Mostly the reason I don't buy things from Urban is because I find it overpriced for the quality that you are getting. For example, I splurged on a jacket last year, and within a few weeks the buttons were falling off, and for a winter coat it wasn't even that warm. Its cute, just not as functional as I would have hoped.

So, you really are paying for the trendiness of the item, which sort of points out another con- the fact that the clothes don't have a lot of staying power. Besides the tendency towards lower quality garments, the store's trendiness means that you can't where them for seasons and seasons on end becuse their out of style. Another thing that I hate hate hate is how overwhelming the store is to shop in. There are always clothes thrown all about, on the floor, hanging off hangers, etc etc. There also never seems to be enough people working there. But otherwise, I really like the store.

American Apparel

Pros - I love their basics. Its nice to have somewhere to fall back on to get a simple, reliable basic t-shirt, legging, tank top, etc etc. They also always have a large selection of colors to choose from, and they aren't always just the typical or basic colors, they are basic colors with a twist. Not just green, but Green Tea green. Not just pink, but Dark Mauve. Their colors are innovative, and so are the designs. A lot of other stores are immitating American Apparel original designs. For example, American Apparel's U-Back dress has definately brought back the backless dress trend. The most innovative part of American Apparel's designs are their garments that can be worn in multiple ways.

I love their instructional videos, because it shows that their designs were designed with the buyer in mind - people love clothes that they can wear in a number of different ways. Okay thats what I love.

Cons - I'm not the only one who loves American Apparel. The label is highly popular and that means that everywhere you go you can probably see someone wearing that sweatshirt you have or that dress you just bought. The nice things about basics is that they aren't usually the main idea or concept of the outfit, and so it doesn't matter if someone else is wearing the same plain tank top as you. Another thing I don't like is that because a lot of their garments are unisex, the fit is not always great, especially on women, since unisex garments tend to default to men's fit (oh what a women's studies topic). For example I have the zip up hoodie from American Apparel and it is a little awkward fitting. Its just a sweatshirt so I don't mind too much, but it is something to be considered. Also, the clothes in general are made form materials with little structure - everything is really stretchy and therefore a little unforgiving if you don't have the perfect figure. Lastly, I tend to think that for basics, the garments are overpriced, especially because they are just basic items. But, here, unlike Urban Outfitters, you pay for the quality, or so I've found.

Another con is the fact that some of the pics are just plain x-rated.

I'm looking for clothes not porn!!

Okay so thats it for now. Look for more Pros and Cons on popular stores to come. For now I have to stop procrastinating and face my Modern Art essay that is due in a few days.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

After a bout of trains, planes and automobiles, whirlwind catching up with old friends, and settling into my couch's warm embrace, Carrie re-entered my life, and awakened the shopper in me. We met with Amartya in Harvard Square and headed off to the Garment District, Newbury Street and all of our favorite shops to spend some dollah dollah bills. The weather was perfect ( at least not snowing) and nothing is better than friends and shopping.

Look how pretty my friends are.

Before I get started on that adventure - remember those fabulous boots I posted last week?

Well I went to the store to go buy them, and ended up with an even better pair! Voila! The flash really makes them look redder than they really are, but otherwise I hope you can tell how fabulous they are. Also, they are vintage. Just saying.

Okay back to today's shopping.

For me, I ended up just getting a cropped double-breasted (hehe) emerald green blazer. Personally, I adore it. It looks a little stuffy buttoned, but let me tell you, unbuttoned, it looks grrrreat.

Ps. those are the boots in action - look good eh eh?

Carrie scored big time with an AH mazing Betsey Johnson sweater.

It's covered with hands. And its backless. There isn't much more that you really need is there?

I can't wait to see what she'll pair it with.

We also went digging through the dollar per pound pile, and came out with 7 pounds of swag. Those pieces are still being washed, perhaps you'll see them in the near future (hint hint hint).

Other purchases from the day include H&M purple high-waisted mini, here paired with my dad's sweater and my new boots ( tomorrows outfit!)

I also was lucky to find - actually find- a bracelet that someone left begging for a new owner. It even has evil eyes on it. It was so meant to be its not even funny.

And speaking of meant to be, one of our favorite new items of the day was Carrie's new bow headband, which she accidentally acquired by wearing it around her neck (by accident WE SWEAR) as we left a store.

I was unlucky in Urban Outfitters ( maybe its because I had so much luck with the boots the other day), but Carrie rolling in riches. She got a cute see-through leopard print crop top, and cream sweater. I tried both on, but clearly they were meant for Carrie! How cute!

Okay now for the big sha-bam. Spoiler Alert. I have been planning my halloween outfit for weeks in my head, trying SO hard not to get my hopes up about not being able to complete it successfully, because I thought it would be impossible to find the perfect items. Today proved me wrong.

Do you see a certain iconic ballet-inspired outfit emerging? I can't wait for you to see it all come together ( or fall apart hahaha) on Halloween night.

Okay. Break has been great so far, and soon I get to see more friends, which will make it even better! I'm so lame. Okay BYE!!!

Daddy, I WANT it NOW

Okay, so high levels of stress, lots of visitors, and an upcoming break have all lead to a need to buy things.  Too bad the greatest shopping centers are the Poughkeepsie Galleria ( although Mitchell loves it, I do not agree, although I guess I'm spoiled with the Natick Collections) and the Salvation Army ( not that I am usually opposed to Salvation Army, but since the first time Mitchell and I visited the local store I became a witness to child abuse its not my favorite spot).  ANYWAYS. I've had my mind on a few items: 

Boots. Lots and Lots of Leather boots. 

I know, I know, I just got a great pair of brown leather boots.  But the ones I have don't lace up like these ones.  I have decided that I need a shorter pair of boots, and I love the laced up look.  Unfortunately, I can't quite afford any of these beautiful pairs, but that doesn't mean I won't keep my eye out while shopping! 

This vest will hopefully be mine, if I can get to the Gap. I don't think this will be a problem, knowing me.  (Just want to add that although most stores are OKAY at the PoKeeps Galleria, their Gap is especially sad.  Its depressing to see the selection there versus at home.)

Okay. I also need a new jacket! As my mom would say I don't really neeeeeed  one. But I want one.  So here are some options/shopping inspirations! 

Okay. So here's what I think about them in order.  The first one is almost perfect.  I think I might actually buy it.  I love the color. The buttons.  Everything about it.  Okay.  Second one is like when you know something is bad for you but you want it anyways.  Its ugly. But I kind of like it.  And want to wear it.  But shouldn't.  I shouldn't.  Okay.  Next is cute, I like that its hooded, I like the lining, and I love plaid.  But I already have a grey plaid jacket.  I like the idea of it definitely.  The last is just an attempt to fit into a trend I guess.  It does look practical and warm, however, and this is what keeps me teetering on the edge of whether I should go for a shape like this.  I think I have to try it on, for sure.  Advice? 

Sorry that this was a really quick post.  Its my last night at Vassar and everyones living it up large even though it is almost snowing out (SEE I really DO need the coat!) Come a few days from now I will be basking in boredom with post-ideas galore, and hopefully new clothes/shopping experiences to blog about.  I owe some extra postage, so I will sure be on it! Keep a look out for bonus-posts.