Summer in the City

Oh how I have missed New York City so. Summer is in the air and that means so is the smell of garbage, and of course cat calling (insert eyeball roll here). But let's face it, we've all been waiting for the day where we can ditch the coat and not worry whether not wearing tights was a bad idea. 

In NYC you never know who you'll run into, whether it be an old pal, or a celeb (which happens more than you think), so looking your best is always something to keep in mind.  Here is a look I put together for a quick trip to the bodega to pick up some flowers. Comfortable, bold, and chic! 

The Lowdown: 

Blouse: LF

Jumper: Free People 

Purse: Customized Longchamp (DIY alert...deets coming soon)

Sunglasses: Starstruck Vintage 

Shoes: Reeboks (Literally the BEST shoes for walking around in the city)

xoxo, 

The Maximalist  

Stars Align At Dallas Boho Boutique Fashion Show

Photo courtesy of the Gypsy Wagon Facebook page. 

Dallas favorite The Gypsy Wagon hosted it's first fashion show to celebrate their success and kick off the summertime season. Situated on the busy corner of Henderson, the store brings in foot traffic from both Dallas boho babes and those looking for the perfect element to add to their unique wardrobe. 

The Gypsy Wagon is filled with clothes from dreamy designers such as celebrity favorite Johnny Was, to free-spirited fav. Free People. The store has an aesthetic of boho with a Western flare, or "boho chic", a look that is growing fast in the South, especially in Texas. 

 Not only does The Gypsy Wagon sell fabulous frocks, but it also a great spot to find a gift for a friend, or for yourself. Items include fun stationary from Bando and candles from Voluspa.  It is always a favorite of mine to shop when back home.

With a sudden explosion of the boho chic look, the Gypsy Wagon now has three stores, and is teeming with business. To celebrate their accomplishments and the summer, the store decided to host a fashion show complete with cocktails, music, and more.

Local favorite Tribal Juice concockted drinks for the event. Photo by Madeleine Crenshaw. 

Inspired by the astrological signs, the fashion show displayed the store's favorite looks for the summer. Indie jams spun by Jason Abbott played as the boho crowd of Dallas mingled with one another while sipping on cocktails made by Tribal Juice. Their fresh pressed juice with tequila was an absolutely perfect summertime drink to sip on for the evening. Live jewelry making from Dallas jewelry line the All The Wire was also in full effect during the evening, pressing astrological signs into silver and gold plated bands.

The show kicked off with a speech from the owner Carley Seale, who also doubled as the emcee. As models strutted down the runway with this season's hottest looks, Seale read out each astrologcial sign, from their characteristics to its interests.

A bold dress with a fringe purse is a subtle, but bold look for the summer. Photo by Madeleine Crenshaw. 

All about this denim on denim look. Photo by Madeleine Crenshaw. 

The Gypsy Wagon Dallas location is on 2928  Henderson Avenue. The store also has locations in Austin and Crested Butte, CO.  If you ever come across one of their stores I highly recommend taking a peek inside. 

xoxo, 

The Maximalist. 

Spring Vibes

This spring is all about nature with a flare. Think 70's bohemian with a punch of punk. Bellbottoms, pointed boots, and clothing and accessories with embellished pins and buttons make for a perfect combination of two incredible eras of the late 20th century. Dark eyeshadow and nude lips are in. Tiaras and slips are a must (especially because my 21st birthday is coming up, but also YSL brought the Courtney Love look back). Go out and explore the season in your fiercest get up. It's all about looking badass while taking on the springtime season, whether that be hitting up Washington Square Park, or having brunch on the patio.


PS make sure to follow me on polyvore for more stylish creations!
http://themaximalistny.polyvore.com

Maximalism Baby!

Photo courtesy of New York Magazine. Taken by Bobby Doherty. 

On a recent lazy Sunday afternoon I was flipping through a New York Magazine while enjoying some coffee in my favorite Henri Bendel coffee mug. 

The minute I came across Larocca and Ramsey's article on maximalism (pictured above), I was delighted to see that the trend was on the radar once again. Goodbye boring minimalism and hello fabulous maximalism!

The over-accessorizing  and customization of clothes has exploded within the past two seasons, and I am absolutely delighted. With maximalism there are no rules, and that means more creative ensembles on both the runway, and the streets. 

Maximalism was seen on several of the runways for this  season including Dolce & Gabbana  and Gucci.  (Left to right.) Photos courtesy of Vogue.

So what is maximalism anyways? 

Maximalism is the counter reaction of minimalism, an aesthetic of excess with the mantra of “more is more”. 

The aesthetic is both present in art and fashion, and for me, I would say I am definitely maximalist when it comes to style. 

Picture of one of my ensembles. I love to mix textures and fabrics, but my secret is trying to make them complement each other effortlessly (i.e. choosing similar color schemes)

A maximalist is not afraid to mix plaid with polka dots, and animal with floral prints. The more patterns the better! They also have a knack for over accessorizing, but totally getting away with it. Hats and eyewear are also a staple to the maximalist. 

One of the most notable maximalists is 94 year-old Iris Apfel. The fashion icon is known for over-accessorizing with various accessories she has collected from around the world. To the maximalist, one’s clothes and accessories are like personal keepsakes, that each have their own story. 

Iris Apfel, queen of maximalism. Photo courtesy of The Talks. Taken by Thomas Whiteside. 

And lastly being a maximalist is all about self-expression and confidence. Remember: there are no rules when it comes to this fad. More is more! 

As Ms. Apfel once said, "life is gray and dull; you might as well have a little fun with your dress."