cLaw's guide to Retro&vintage funk

Outfits I actually have!

2009-05-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

Instead of assembling outfits I want or dream of, I decided to show off what I do have. While looking for replicas on polyvore.com I realized that I have a lot typical trends...

Overall my MUSTS are:
Tights
Pencil Skirts
Anything High waist-ed
Hair Bands
Bangles

A day date

Outfits I actually have 2 by claw333 featuring Diane von Furstenberg bags

Here is what I wear to a date/school/hanging with the girls. Of course, this is way too dressed up for West Coast. Cannot wait for NYC!

Beaching it out

outfits I have3 by claw333 featuring Vince shorts

SO while in Hawaii I assembled this outfit for fun and totally love it! Add a nice patterned and light fabric top (the longer the better) with shorts (beige, brown, and black). Then add some flip flops or slippers and do not forget an accessory. As they do in Hawaii, I decided a flower would be fitting. If you do have a signature accessory, by all means, put it on!

My Birthday Dress

Hipstervenue by claw333 featuring Rick Owens Lilies tights

For my birthday I decided to wear this for a trendy and hipster event in H Wood in Hollywood. As you can tell, my tights, bangles, and head band were clearly my signature pieces.

Anyways, that's what I got and that's that!

Off to the working world without a thing to wear?!

2009-04-06T23:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's time for me to leave University and I am in desperate need of office wear clothes. Of course, with the recession, I've added another series of ways to stay cheap and classy. Simply use clothes that can be used for both formal and informal purposes (i.e. blouses, pumps, pencil skirts and more)!

Ready to save big for the working world? Here it is:

School to work by claw333 featuring Alex Monroe necklaces

Just reuse the shirt and bag and you are set! Remember the more conservative at work the better but don't forget to add some flair! How? Maybe a nice embellishment on the shoes or jewelry? Up to your personal style.

Red, white, and work!

Day out to Office by claw333 featuring Miu Miu shoulder bags

Just reuse that adorable but office-y bag, cardigan, and more to set off an office and casual look!

A little prim & proper can never hurt

Out & about=>office by claw333 featuring Forever21 rings

Again, cardigans are a must and pencil skirts are to die for. Easy on the accessories and you are ready to go!

Overall here is what you can convert over to the office:
Pumps
Cardigans
Blouses-not too funky but you can feminize it up a little with minor details like lace, patterns, and such.
Pencil Skirts
High Waist-ed pants (black, MAYBE khaki, and tweed)
Blazer (Keep it mellow and neutral)
Mary Janes

Hope that helps!

Running out of club wear? Just reuse!

2009-03-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

I can finally and gladly announce that I have been accepted to Americorp City Year NYC! Although I am still thinking it all through, If I go there will be a 100% chance I will be flat broke. This means all my money must go to food, rent, and taxes. This also means my nightlife will have to be limited. Alcohol being one but most unfortunately my clothes! However, while looking through my closet, I realized with just a few accessories and creativity, you can get away with anything!

Office life=> Nightlife

Office to Club - by claw333 on Polyvore.com

Pick a high waisted or pencil skirt and pair it with different accessories! For the office, wear a nice blouse, proper shoes, & conservative jewelry. Then, if you are on the go, just throw on some bangles, a shiny shirt, flashy shoes, and you're off for a night of clubbing.

Night to day

Day to Night pt. 1 - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
Instead of the usual day to night, sometimes one parties too hard and finds oneself in a compromising position. Then early the next day, one has a doctor's appointment or work and therefore need to dress in a blink of an eye! We've all been there. So what can you do? The answer: just throw off all the jewelry, change shoes, and remove makeup (unless you like that Kate Moss look). Then, add on tights, jacket, and proper shoes.

Fancy event to a nightclub event...

Club to Posh - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
One dress for two events?! It's a little too good to be true! First put on elegant accessories, a broach, and keep it classy. Then, when off to the clubs just throw it all off and replace the accessories with something shiny, flashy, and fabulous!

Overall, just remember, if you have an idea do not be afraid to just try it out, mix and match, and get creative!

Who knows? Maybe you can save yourself a buck or two!

That's that!

Seasonal missmatch

2009-02-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

As the recession is quite evident, I thought I might give a money saving fashion tip:
The art of Re-using your clothes:
For example. Seasonal wear is difficult but with the right attitude and creativity, your wardrobe can work for any season!

What I like to do is get something that is seasonal (summer dress, tights, boots, flowery stuff) and mix it up. For example, if you are a fall person (like me) who likes darker colors and semi warm clothing, I would suggest using those colors, mixing it with sandals, adding a beach bag.

This takes a lot of creativity and time (along with playing fashion show in front of the mirror) but with a little luck you'll not only look fabulous but also have some extra cash.

Summer dress for the winter!

Summer for Winter - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
If you are like me and have a ton of summer dresses which are not needed in the cold weather, simply pair it up with a jacket, scarf, tights, and other warm clothing. Boots, mary-janes, and warm foot wear is recommended. Also, tights are a must unless you have skinny jeans. Those work even better!

Spring for Summer

Spring for Summer - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
Not a very hard transition or mix because these seasons are close together. However, when you are still used to the breeze and the bloom of spring, its hard to adjust to the heat wave of summer. So what can you do? Just use that flowery skirt, pair with light cardigan, and sandals! Don't forget a bikini and beach bag for those fabulous beach trips.

Spring for fall

Spring for Fall - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
As I get fall withdrawals, I like to think of other seasonal things and pair it off with fall clothing. My suggestion is bright and warm colors with a neutral. Along with tights (of course!), boots (or mary janes), and a sassy fall color bag.

Anyways, hope that helps you save cash, gain some creativity, and re-think those hibernating articles of clothing in your closet!

That's that!

Sets inspired by shoes

2009-02-06T14:34:00.000-08:00

I was shoe shopping the other day and realized my love for lace-y shoes! These are fabulous shoes as they are versatile and gorgeous. Versatile, you ask? Yup, you can use it for the office to spruce up that dull pant suit or take it out on the night on the town. Lace-y shoes are also great for feminizing (or emasculating, in another sense) an outfit and therefore creating a Katherine Hepburn look. Anyways here are some random and silly outfits I made...

Red shoes!

Two famous colors in one - by claw333 on Polyvore.com

So red and black has got to be the sexiest combo of colors since forever. Hhere is a way to go to day to night outfit!

Black shoes!

So classy, we needed a butler - by claw333 on Polyvore.com

Just fooling around with polyvore. Again, red and black along with a lace explosion!

Beige/ white shoes

CLassy? - by claw333 on Polyvore.com
Need sprucing for the work place? Here you go, accessories are optional but for work pick classics that are plain, simple, but timeless.

That's that!

Bring in the funk

2008-12-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

Just came back from post-xmas shopping and got a few awesome pieces from H&M for 5-10 bucks. I got so excited that I decided to make some outfits to celebrate. Before I start, however, how can you be funky without looking like a crazy person? Well, besides confidence, charm, and witty inteligence, here are some outfits (along with levels of funky).

Here it is:

Casual/beginner

Funk 2 by claw333

If you are new to the indie mod scene, try something basic but mix it up with the accessories. This outfit is casual but fun. Be careful though, feathers and all may be fun but accessories are to accompany your outfit, not to overwhelm it.

Funky Chic/medium

Funk 1 by claw333
Little more daring but still very clean and polished. This outfit is nice for a casual Fridays or out in the bars in the more trendy areas. The ankle boots are optional but remember that heels are a must as they lengthen those legs!

Funkidelic/expert (so to speak...)

Funk 3 by claw333
Takes guts but I am totally going to pull this off one day. Anyways, this is for those who live in urban-y areas or tolerate slight hipster (or H&M divided look). Personally, I love it but sometimes it is not for everyone. Just get a mini skirt, belt, make it high and add with a blouse. Be careful with the skirt, however. Always make sure you can bend down or else you'll be showing a little more than wanted.

That's that. Cannot wait for 09!

Three ways to dress the red dress!

2008-12-09T01:03:00.000-08:00

Bought something and found out you can only wear it to one function? Even worse, realize you just do not have the cash?

Fear not, I have a solution! Even if you have a piece of clothing that is not versatile, think again. Recently I bought a dress that is cute but only for casual events. Or so I thought. While I was bored in my room at a godforsaken hour, I realized that this dress is also versatile with a little creativity! In fact, I've been using this dress everywhere: work, at the club, and even in the classroom.

"Out and about in the town" dress

Red dress casual by claw333

This outfit is especially good for the cold weather we've been having lately in Cali! Just pair off with tights and a plain black or white turtleneck. Then, throw on a fun pea coat with texture and add on some funky accessories (I.e. Headbands are in)!

"For the office" dress

for the office by claw333
Just add a white or black or (if you are adventurous) patterned blouse and pair it off with some tights (optional). Of course, if you are the adventurous type make sure you use a monochrome dress. Also add a blazer and office appropriate jewelry! Classy but cute!

Lastly..."Out at night" dress

Red dress out by claw333
Use a belt, add some pumps, heels, and whatever jewelry that has sparkles. If you are feeling risky and frisky, try a strange pairing for shoes. Red and yellow? Don't believe me, try it.

Not only do you get the most of your clothes but also save money and be creative!

That's that!

Silver Screen to everyday fashion...

2008-11-27T00:15:00.000-08:00

Besides time eras, friends, and events going on in my life (look at previous posts), I always tend to get inspiration from films. Whether it is a classic film or something just plain indie, you can always get a fashion epiphany from a character's necklace, fashion sense, or outfit. Here are some of my favorite movies and the outfits they inspired!

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Everybody's Gotta Learn sometime... by claw333
A little funky and very much what Clem would wear. Also made sure I got the vintage necklace and the infamous orange jacket!

Vertigo

Vertigo by claw333
A classic followed by a classy outfit. Vertigo, a fabulous movie, is more than suspenseful but also a great movie for fabulous fashions! This outfit was inspired by the one scene with the green glow (those who have seen it know exactly what I am talking about).

And lastly...
Darjeeling Limited

Where do you go to my lovely... by claw333
A little West mixed with East. Not to mention green and a mixture of colors! This outfit is actually inspired by the mood and setting of this hilarious Wes Anderson flick. My interpretation? Add some Indian accessories with some western classics (plaid, boots, and antique jewelry).

Any suggestions??

That's that I suppose!

Flapperific!

2008-11-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Besides the 60s, 70s, and all, I absolutely love 20s evening wear. Always sexy but with a flair of spunk and trouble. Here are some outfits I put together for any occasion (even casual)!

Speakeasy Flapper

Roaring 20s by claw333
Went to a speakeasy this fall break and had a blast! This is what I should have been wearing. Feathers, boots, and the perfect chandelier earrings!

FlappCasu!

Flapper Casual by claw333

For those who don't want it too costume-y, here is a toned down version. Just add loose dress, long sleeve undershirt, hat, ankle boots, and a looping necklace for kicks! The bag is optional but adds a little fun, don't you think?

Lastly, Roaring 20s (costume/themed evening)

20s again by claw333
Fur is optional (if you are an animal lover, feel free to opt out). If you are feeling a little more masculine or risky, feel free to add a leather jacket (think Amelia Earhart).

That's that for the 20s! What do you think?

Elections & missmatching

2008-11-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

Despite the fact that this is a fashion blog, I still believe it is essential to bring up election day! First off, thank god it is Obama. As a democrat, this is exciting and about time! As for what he represents, he does not represent all "minorities" (just being African American does not constitute as representing all Asians, Latinos, women, homosexual population and Native americans) but he does give hope for all groups of people who are being oppressed in this country today. A minority woman, myself, his accomplish gives me great pride. Thank you America for coming to your senses. Because of Obama I won't be using my dual citizenship anytime soon!

As for California props, I must say we did put a good fight against prop 8 but alas, this country is still not ready yet. I voted against 8 because love is love. To deny someone love and to control their PERSONAL life that has nothing to do with anyone else is unacceptable to me. Typical, really. But it was a close fight. Nevertheless, congrats on no on Prop 4 ( I interned with Planned parenthood on that) and yes on 1, 2, &3!

ANYWAYS...on to fashion!

As you can tell, matching is very out. As it should have been a long time ago. To match a little is acceptable as long as it is not overdone. Unfortunately, people tend to go too far and it becomes ridiculous. This is a guide to miss-matching in a fashionable sense!

Missy match

missymatch by claw333

Want to miss-match in a classy way? Start with a base of neutrals (white/black/beige/Grey) but add on some wacky colors for a bang (pants, bangle, bag). Match a little with some but do not be afraid to be daring!

Hippie Miss-match

missmatch2 by claw333
Pick three contrasting colors and here you go! When you are adventurous like this, make sure not to over do it and to add pieces that are less powerful (i.e. vest and jacket).

Miss-Match Daring

Missmatch by claw333
Another way to miss-match is to pick one piece and have separate aspects that match with it. My "one piece" was the skirt with red and blue. Then a threw in the mutard tights but toned it down with the black shirt and the Grey cardigan.

Try it out if you wish and tell me how it goes! That's that!

Invest in a vest....Literally!

2008-11-04T01:07:00.000-08:00

Vests are in and love em'. Although some may say it is a short lived trend, I think it is classy and timeless. However, can you use one vest for different outfits? I say yes! Here is how!

Casual

Vest set one by claw333

Because I am kinda boy shape, I need a skirt that flares out and some tights. For the top I suggest something feminine or loose and funky with loads of prints. Accessorize however you like but I personally love a scarf or a nice necklace.

Office

Office work by claw333
For the office keep it simple but not mundane. You can work some color but do not go crazy. Also with the jewelry, keep it modest unless you work in a liberal setting. Other than that this can go with flats (if casual fridays) or pumps!

Date/bars/out and about

Vest for Out and about by claw333
Keep it flirty and fun! Remember that the vest is a very masculine piece of clothing! If you want to look masculine go ahead by all means. However, if you want something in the middle or more feminine just add ruffles, frills, or anything bouncy or light! Accessorize how you like and heels are a must!

Well, that is that for the vests. Although I love vests, really, there is no need for five types in different designs. Chances are the vest is a trend. However, it is how you dress it and how it makes you feel that can make it ultimately timeless.

And that's that!

Mod mania for all seasons!

2008-10-31T13:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! For my costume this year I'm a mod bond girl! Instead of putting away those go-go boots and funky patterns, why not use mod for every season?

Fall

Mod Fall by claw333
Just Add tights and funky fall colors! Ankle boots are a must.

Winter

Winter Mod by claw333
Less colors but still a splash. White Coat is essential!

Spring

Mod Spring by claw333

Use a basic base and then add color...tons of it. Not to mention funky accessories!

Summer

Mod Summer by claw333

Start with a somewhat of a hippie dress but dress it up with tons of jewelry and infamous white mod glasses!

There you have it. Mod for every season without looking too costume-y.

With a little help from my friends

2008-10-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

How is it always Audrey, Marilyn, or Grace Kelly that sets up inspiration? Or if you are the brand type, its inspiration fromVera Wang, Marc Jacobs, or Ralph Lauren? Although I love all that stuff, I feel that anything can inspire your fashion or just way of living. For me (for fashion at least), my friends have inspired me greatly. Not only has their fashion taste inspired my own but also their ideas, hearts, and minds that have affected me greatly. So here is for the loves of my life.

NYU chic

Totally Jasmine. It's urban. It's funky. It's tough. Very her. Totally inspired me that power and confidence can also be fashionable and fun.

NYunique by claw333

L.A. Bohemian Proper

A Kate classic. She's a hippie but still a good girl at heart. If there is anything she's taught me its how to get a great price on ANYTHING. Thank god for thrift shopping.

L.A. Bohemian Proper by claw333

NorCal Casual

This is screaming Liz. Very colorful, vibrant, and cheerful. This girl has definitely taught me that primary colors can work together. Not to mention the fact that a smile is an accessory for any fabulous outfit.

NorCal Casual by claw333

Hawaiian Goddess

Jojo, a Native of Hawaii and proud of it, has taught me that bold prints, colors, and all are always in style. Also, this jewelry queen always reminds me to accessorize!

Hawaiian Goddess by claw333

Well, that's that. Any comments? Feel free!

Why not?

2008-10-30T00:57:00.000-07:00

To be honest, I'm fed up with those emotional blogs. Too emo, too contrived, and just too much for me. Which is why I started with this little Fashion blog thing. Well, that and a quarter life crisis. Right now I am just about to graduate from undergrad and it's scary. I've got some things under control such as grades, friends, job, extracurriculars, and all. But other than that the future is still a mystery.

Nevertheless, the main point is this: I truly found what who I am (and what I will do) along with my fashion sense when I broke up with my four year high school sweetheart and traveled around Europe. I didn't do it alone. If it wasn't for the friends and the strangers on the way, who knows where I'd be?

Who would had thought it would have been so liberating? For the first time it's about me and it won't be the last. To celebrate, here are some sets that are retro chic with a little bit of history and whatnot.

Feel free to critique.

Post-Breakup outfit.

Retro-chic by claw333

After slumping about, it's time to be out and about. Whether it is just having girl time with the girlpals or date night, this is my go to outfit. Anyways the inspiration is just mixing up colors, having fun, and thinking vintage.

next...

In the NYC

Mustard fits! by claw333

So I went to NYC in October and wore something similar (but less fantastic and funky). Just reminded me of the fall colors and generally the fact that maybe mustard isn't just a trend.

Last but not least...

Stay classy with pink

Modern Pinkie by claw333

I hate how you have to compromise anything funky when it is a formal event. In order to counteract this, my way of being me is having a simple base but going insane when it comes to accessories and whatnot.

Anyway that's that.