It Begins...

I've finally made it- through university to graduation, to New York City (almost), and into the work force (unpaid jobs count right?)!

Two days after graduation I was offered the chance to be the hair and make up artist for fabulous KatMo Jam's new exercise DVD! As I am typing this, I'm 35 thousand feet up on my way to the Big Apple where I'm sure all my career dreams will begin.

I'm so happy to be moving into a, no doubt stylish, new season of life and I'm looking forward to devoting more time to Lifestyled and developing my brand. Thanks for sticking' in there with me; I promise I'll make it worth while in the coming months!
Warmly,

Faerl Marie

Outdoor-In

The weather is beautiful here in enchanted New Mexico- a bonus for my breaks from homework, paper writing, grading, and research drudgery. Two more weeks and I will finally be a graduate to pursue my passions, love, interests and hobbies as a.... Who knows! One thing at a time.

Style Icons: Full Figures

Everywhere I look it seems like someone is referencing Marilyn Monroe. From Michelle Williams on the big screen in "My Week with Marilyn" to the small screen's new show "Smash" and everywhere in between. I've been thinking about her amazing style recently and the way that she seemed to embrace her figure and enhance as much as possible. High-waisted styles are a big hit on the runway and in my closet, especially since I have small waist and have gained some weight the last few months. Instead of crash dieting I've decided to do what I know (and what always works). In the meantime I'll look to fabulous style icons Sophia Loren and Marilyn Monroe, to embrace my figure instead of fight it. Plus, this week (my Spring Break) it's been in the high 70s so I am going full-force with warm weather apparel!

Sophia Loren

 Marilyn Monroe

 Here's my take:

These are my favorite summer shoes! They make me feel empowered- like Superwoman!

Marilyn and Sophia, Thank you for your timeless inspiration!

The Goods:

Shorts- Ingredients- TJ Maxx

Tee shirt- Miley Cyrus for WalMart

Cardigan- Limited

Necklace- Francesca's Collection

Shoes- Etorre Masotti

Sunglasses- Tory Burch

Belt- Target

Bangle- World Market

Chain bracelet- Target

Cuff- Target

Chick Style

For the last couple of years or so I have been interested in developing a small flock of Chic Chickens! Since I am only a few months shy of graduation, I have been exploring several post-student activities one of which includes "micro-farming" and blogging about my exploits outside of fashion. In fact, I have a great love for outdoor work, little building projects and animals all of which I take great pride in doing with as much flair and style and as small a budget as is conceivable. Now, I just have to convince my amazing hubby!

I like those varieties that have a little more flair in their appearance...

These little darlings are Polishes. Their fascinators are very "royal wedding"!

 This speckled beauty is a Golden Spangled. She looks so put together!

These are Marans (chicks above and a rooster below). 

I love the steely blue-green of their tail feathers and their color-blocking.

 This is a Showgirl and she is ready for the stage!

One thing to consider when planning a flock are their accommodations. The variety of styles for small chicken coops is incredible. I am excited to plan my own. It will have to be well insulated for our chilly winters and bitter winds, secure against coyotes and raccoons and of course an attractive element in our yard.

 I love these live garden roofs.

 All pictures were taken from Back Yard Chickens.

Style Icons: Audrey Hepburn in a Midi Skirt

Several months ago I found a sage green linen, high-waisted, midi skirt at Goodwill. It fits my hips like a glove and shows off my waist, plus, the label was from the 70's and said Saks Fifth Avenue- I had to buy it. Sadly, It has been worn once since then and I wans't thrilled with the outfit so it got put in the back of my closet to lay dormant until inspiration hit.