To Kimono, or not to kimono?

That is the question…

 

 

 

Ever since I first realized that kimonos were coming into style, I was hooked. I love that they each one is so unique and colorful. They are also super comfortable and cozy, and they hide a lot well (and I can braid the fringe when I am bored). But since I turned 30, I have started to question my wardrobe choices seriously for the first time: should I wear leopard print jeans (probably not) should I wear tube tops and short skirts? How about sparkly things (I love some good sequins)? I can only be thankful for friends for being good hearted and not laughing in my face when I show up wearing azctec print, acid wash, holey jeans.

So this summer, while browsing pinterest endlessly for style tips, I started to notice that most women wearing kimonos or shawls were much younger than me. My thoughts were further confirmed when I was in Chicago during the Lollapoolza music festival. Kimonos seemed to be an essential piece of the 20 something’s summer music festival wardrobe, the other essential wardrobe piece: coochie hugging shorts and lots of under butt (Thanks Miley!).  Let’s just say I had some serious concern for the reproductive systems of these girls because it can’t be healthy to have your shorts jammed up your hoo-ha all day long! Think about your future ladies. and I realize I am dangerously close to wearing hoo ha shorts in the last picture, but I got tights and boots on and no under booty I promise!) 

I don’t say this all this to judge these young girls because heaven knows what I was doing and what I was wearing (mostly musty thrift store finds) when I was in college…I am all for being young and care free, exploring new things, expressing yourself and all those other things that come with the roller coaster ride that is the 20’s; I just have to remember that I am not in my 20’s anymore and maybe I shouldn’t be dressing like a 21 year old and making a fool out of myself.

BUT, all that being said…I like my kimonos and my shawls and won’t stop wearing them…but if I start asking you about molly, then someone needs to have a talk with me!

 

what do you guys think about kimonos? If anyone has a picture of their favorite kimono, or favorite outfit with a shawl, you can email me at forourcity@gm

oxford love.

 

Ever since I was a kid I loved oxfords. I went through a phase where I was convinced 1950’s was the coolest time period for style because of poodle skirts and black and white oxfords (or penny loafers and rolled jeans)! Also, like almost every woman out there, I love shoes. But I also don’t have very much money- so finding a pair I like, are comfortable, and will last, for under $100 is a challenge for me. Here is a round up of some of my favorites…I really love colors and patterns and crazy prints but I also am trying to tone it down and add more pieces to my wardrobe that can go with everything.

 

my favorite oxfords for Autumn

1. The Free People Galaxy Oxfords  probably one of my favorites of the 6 that are pictured, and of course, above my price range. I could only find them for sale on the UK Free People website for 158 pounds which equates to over $250.00. Still, I love how unique they are, and how comfortable they look.

2. Are Nickerie Oxfords  available at Anthropologie and also Shoes.com for a much more reasonable price of $37.00 – $47.50. Of course, the only problem with buying these cheaper, cute patterned oxfords, is they are canvas and probably will not last as long as the leather ones, especially in the rain.

3. Are Nomad Leopard Print Oxfords and can be found also at Shoes.com for $49.00. If you like the style, but have a little higher of a budget or want a more quality pair similar to these that will last you longer, then you will probably love these:

they are J.Crew Collection Calf Hair Oxfords for $350.00 and found at J.Crew.com

4. Are Rocco P. Laced Woman’s Shoes- Camel found at yoox.com for $375.00.  I love this color, it’s probably my favorite color for leather shoes because I feel like it can go with almost anything.

Although, those are my dream pair, I am seriously considering these Qupid Tuxedo Cut Out Lace Up Oxford Flats  from Urbanog.com

as an alternative for a much more thrifty amount of $14.80 (what?!? maybe I will buy these now).

5. My other favorites from the 6 I chose are these awesome Osborn Painted Oxfords , Artist Limited Edition for $168.00.

6. Are another pair of oxfords from Free People. They are the Rogue Darby black and tan and are $135.00.

These are similar to the ones shown in the top picture that I am wearing, but again, the Rogue Darby oxfords are my dream pair but Classified Brand and unfortunately I can find them no where online!

 

As always, I would LOVE to hear your feedback or if you want to be featured or have a question- hit me! I hope you all are enjoying these final days of summer.