don juan's reckless daughter

traveling fool

2012-01-29T07:28:00.000-08:00

Apologies again for the severe lack of blogging here lately but I have been traveling like a mad woman since I left for the Sundance Film Festival over a week ago and then for Ireland & the UK immediately after that. "The Brit" and I are acting as a band of sorts for our friend Lucette (I'm doing backing vocals and "the Brit" guitar & some vocals). We are opening for (ehem..."supporting") the Secret Sisters on their UK tour which is completely surreal but so so so much fun! I promise to share some photos of this whole adventure with you but first, a long awaited outfit post that I snapped before I left California...

(with little Charlie girl who I miss terribly!!! :(

outfit notes:
dress - vintage
cardigan - xxi
boots - madewell

ladylike

2012-01-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

Hello from Sundance! While I'm busy watching films and running around Park City I thought I'd share this pretty editorial I recently came across...

I think I'm starting to be ready for spring colors! Mostly I want the house in this editorial! so good!

Model: Meghan Collison

Shot by: Ben Toms for Vogue Russia

Styled by Katie Shillingford.

photos via: fashiongonerouge

hey, don't break my internet!

2012-01-18T12:06:00.000-08:00

Just a quick (slightly politically fueled) post today of a video I found via calivintage's tumblr which does a pretty great job of explaining what this whole Protect IP / SOPA business is all about.
PROTECT IP / SOPA Breaks The Internet from Fight for the Future on Vimeo.

As someone who's boyfriend is a working musician and who herself works in the film business I am all for some types of anti-piracy laws - ones that protect artists, small businesses and the people who make the content we all consume but these particular bills are so wide reaching that they threaten everyone in the US (and beyond) who uses the internet as a creative outlet, a place to share passions and a place interact with people from across the globe. That's a step backwards that I, for one would not want to see put into action. As a user of sites like tumblr, youtube, twitter and this very blog I feel particularly vulnerable to this type of bill and if it passed I would definitely have to re-evaluate my online presence. Even though I am very careful about listing sources and facts about content it's uncharted territory.

I know I am more than likely preaching to the choir here but I felt it needed to be addressed! love to you all! To contact your Rep about this got to: http://americancensorship.org/

xdjrd

life according to my phone

2012-01-13T16:49:00.000-08:00

Time again to take a little glimpse at the past month or so as seen by my iPhone...

Lots of Christmas lights on my aunts house, oh... and me dancing

the cats, in their favorite lounging spot

Beth Jean and bubbly!

my early morning routine

little Lola in her little sweater

our teeny tiny Christmas tree (which we put in the trash last week :(

fake snow in Los Angeles

apple season!

the beautiful Orpheum Theatre

Baggie exploring

Christmas presents

Las Vegas mall - Christmas decor

skiing with my mom & brother

the musicians beer of choice

and more Christmas decorations!

hello!

sushi with my family

ski bootz

the drive home

my neighbor's burnt car the day after the fire

more Lola

bad quality photo of our new couch! (Hurrah!)

me with flu face

my pals Sam and Dominic playing at Dominic's birthday party

a photo of "the Brit" for good measure

flowers in our garden

"the Brit" recording new songs with his band The Idyllists

cozy pups

me again! and feeling a bit better.

Very excited for the weekend because I've got several lovely visitors in town over the next few days - always a lot of fun! Also, some traveling in my near future. Stay tuned. Have a nice weekend, everyone! xdjrd

for the morning

2012-01-10T12:57:00.000-08:00

Not much new in my world (just getting over a nasty little flu bug that I came down with on New Years Eve)... however... I suddenly realize that I have quite a lot going on the rest of this month. I really hope I can return to being a full-functioning human sooner rather than later to take it all on! 10 days in to the new year I don't feel like I accomplished much aside from trying to make a dent in my emails... oh, and wearing my new red beret an awful lot.

I took these photos Sunday morning before heading on to the Rosebowl Flea Market. But as soon as I got to Pasadena I realized the coat was completely unnecessary and ended up carrying it around the whole morning because it was legitimately warm out. Incidentally, also brought flats with me so as not to ruin my shoes or my feet!

outfit notes: dress -vintage, beret - Christmas gift, shoes - chloe sevigny for oc

musical notes: a new 8 tracks playlist I made...

le matin from recklessmeg on 8tracks.

snow

2012-01-04T23:07:00.000-08:00

On our last day in the mountains of Idaho where we spent our holiday I managed to coax "the Brit" in to taking some quick shots for me...

This is basically the only time throughout the year where you'll find me in my Sorel's because Southern California is hardly the climate for snow boots - but they are super warm and do the trick in the snow.

please note charlie in the background who refused to wear her doggie coat this year!

PS: thanks to everyone for their emails/calls/texts about this whole fire business. They did arrest someone over the weekend and the arson stopped so I'm hoping that's the end of it. So scary to have been so close to disaster. We are very thankful!

that's right...it's 2011 montage time!

2011-12-31T20:30:00.000-08:00

Second post of the last day of the year! In keeping with DJRD tradition, I thought I would do a little 2011 montage so... here is a quick look back at some Reckless Daughter over the last 12 months...

2011 was an incredible year of traveling new places, meeting new friends & enjoying old friends, music endevours, pretty dresses (of course) and so much more! I can only hope that 2012 brings as much excitement and wonder as this year has. Lastly...HUGS to all of you lovely readers - this blog would be nothing without you! HAPPY NEW YEAR! xoxo djrd

Belle of the Imaginary Ball

2011-12-31T16:37:00.000-08:00

Hurrah! Our internet connection has returned and I'm probably going to do two posts today as a result! Firstly... I always pick out a few gowns each season that catch my eye -- even though, at present, I never attend any sort of ball befitting of a gown. While attempting to come up with an idea of what to wear this New Years Eve I thought it might be fun to play a little game with myself and pick a few gowns from the Spring 2012 collections that I'd love to wear to a NYE ball. Here they are...

Marchesa - these 3 are perfection. Obviously, heavily inspired by the 1920s which, of course, always catches my eyeballs!

Zac Posen - thanks to my pal BethJean for passing along this lovely gown. It reminds me of a mermaid which I secretly long to be.

Alexander McQueen - ignoring the funky headwear (as usual with McQueen shows) this dress is so romantic and looks like it's made from layers of golden doilies - I am in love the neckline.

Oscar de la Renta - talk about romantic. this dress makes me want to lounge around on a chaise eating a box of chocolates and drinking something bubbly! It's so lovely I could cry a little.

Rochas (from W mag) this is the gown that actually inspired this whole post. Isn't it lovely?! It's modest yet manages to be quite sexy somehow. It also has a mermaid / snow queen feel to it.

Did you have any favorite gowns from SS12? What would you wear to a ultra-fancy New Years party?

Things we lost in the fire...

2011-12-30T17:32:00.001-08:00

Hello lovelies! For those of you who dont follow my twitter, I am currently without internet because of a scary incident involving one of my neighbor's cars and another neighbor's house being tourched last night (by someone with a mental health issue and far too much time on their hands, me thinks). Anyhow, Internet wires are very much melted and while they fix it (which won't be tonight) I am blogging from my mobile device. Honestly...its next to impossible but I did want to check in since so much time has elapsed between posts! I'll leave you with me in a bad Christmas sweater (*technically an 80s maternity sweater dress) which my whole family wore to spice up our Christmas tradition! Get ready to be jealous...

(*no I am not having a baby anytime soon, mom.)

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-25T15:12:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas! see you soon!!

xo DJRD

the brocade brigade

2011-12-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season to pull out all of the heavier fabrics in your closet but don't forget the wonderful tinsely things too! *Who am I kidding, I'll use any excuse to wear something that shimmers a little, whatever the season* Fabrics like brocade seem especially appropriate for these winter months which is probably why I have been wearing this little dress quite. a. bit. It's been great for more casual Holiday functions and there have been plenty this time around.

outfit details
dress (belt too I think but it's old!) - xxi
cardigan - vintage

Meanwhile, "the Brit" and I had our last house guest of 2011 this past weekend which was a lot of fun! Now I have to rush like mad to finish up this Christmas present shopping! Have you conquered your Santa list??

xdjrd

other places

2011-12-14T17:39:00.000-08:00

In case you miss me in between DJRD posts, I've been know to hang around in these other corners of the interweb...

TUMBLR

TWITTER

PINTREST

xoDJRD

I'm a carpetbagger, baby

2011-12-10T12:47:00.001-08:00

As usual, this time of year makes it next to impossible for me to post regularly but I promise to do my best! Meanwhile, I have been wanting to share my new winter coat with you all and now is as good a time as any so... here it is! I suppose it is a bit like wearing a carpet (really heavy fabric) but it keeps me quite warm and it's such a fun 1960s pattern PLUS the lining is a lover-ly burnt orange color.

Though I bought it several weeks back, I have only been able to wear it a handful of times due to the crazy LA weather - ie: pretty cold until about 11am and then it shoots up into the high 60s or 70s (!) and makes you feel ridiculous for having put on SO many layers that morning.
outfit details:
coat - vintage
shorts & shirt - h&m
tights - hansel from basel

musical notes: jenny lewis & elvis costello - carpetbaggers

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend... x

DJRD Holiday Wishlist 2011 Edition

2011-12-06T21:15:00.001-08:00

I've been painstakingly (hmm...how painful could it be, one might ask) putting together my 2011 Holiday wishlist... these are some things that have caught my eye and that I wouldn't mind finding under our miniature tree...

links:topshop dress, brushes,vintage dress, wellies, lula photo, apc candle
There have been a slew of proper "gift guides" popping up over the past week... including
this one by Hannah Metz and, of course, the return of Cup of Jo's "Gift Guide" - which can be oh so helpful when shopping for tricky family members!

Meanwhile my week will involve all of the following...

photos via 1,2,3,4,5

see you soon! xx

PS: see past DJRD holiday wishlists here

little miss fix-it

2011-12-02T15:17:00.001-08:00

This skirt sat in my ever-expanding "to sew" pile for the last 6 months, though I did pull it out a while back and wore it with the tear at the side (super classy of me... no one noticed or if they did, they weren't about to point it out). Then last weekend I finally got around to fixing it - now it's good as new! It's sure to be placed into heavy rotation this winter. This little project has inspired me to (maybe) get to the rest of that daunting pile; sew on those missing or loose buttons and snaps. Maybe even replace a zip or two? Very ambitious and we shall see how far I get before another 6 months goes by!

The blouse is was a gift from my mother over the Thanksgiving holiday. It's a sort of Edwardian meets 1970s and I like it very much (so did my sister and she bought one too!). Unfortunately, I had to go up a size due to a slight pulling of the fabric in the boob area - I know I've complained about this boobs thing before but I really preferred how the smaller size fit in the arms, sides and back. alas...the medium isn't so bad! And I suppose, some might say, there are worse issues to have.

an aside: yes, I realize I'm making almost the same facial expression in most of these. ha. I have such incredible range!

outfit details:
skirt: vintage
top: xxi
shoes: vintage

PS: For better or worse, I'm getting into the the holiday spirit waaay early this year and I even made a little holiday mix if you are feeling festive - just some christmas time classics...

Monday evening...

2011-11-29T16:55:00.001-08:00

It seems ages since I did a post like this so...here is a little glimpse at my rather uneventful Monday evening at home...enjoy.

not a bad face to come home too, eh?

me, being a blogger nerd...

and she cooks too, ladies and gents!

finished product: pasta with homemade vodka sauce, 3 cheeses & walnuts. mmm...

listening to the new Kate Bush album "50 Words for Snow" and wishing it were colder outside. Also, wishing that we had a fireplace.

a much needed cleaning out of my bag! Which, I figured, presented as good a time as any to do one of those "what's in your bag" photos/lists I've been meaning to do for ages!

1. Marc by MJ bag 2. blog cards 3. keys 4. Kate Spade wallet 5. proof that I drink too much coffee 6. mini notebook & pen 7. various hair accessories 8. mirror 9. L'Occitane hand cream 10. iPhone in a ridiculous case so I don't crack it. 11. vintage gloves 12. Sephora blot papers 13. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment 14. MAC lip pencil & RubyWoo lipstick 15. ULTAMascara 16. sunglasses 17.*normally there would be some sort of reading material but I am reading this book currently which does not fit!

taking the pups out for a little walk. (here's what our garden looks like at night for a change!)

back inside for some "BB" (which I've been doing for several months now and love...)

Then into a different kind of slipper

curl up with the pups... (charlie cannot fly - despite what her ears might tell you)

Lastly, since I am on a hot chocolate kick this month I thought it fitting to end here. I might also add that it has been in the high 70s here this week. It seems winter may never arrive. this saddens me...

see you soon!

djrd featured on pocket change!

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just a quick little note to say thanks to PocketChange for featuring me on their "best of the web" series!

back soon!

“We are all of us stars and we deserve to twinkle.”

2011-11-26T17:15:00.001-08:00

I'd been seeing a few shots from this Elle UK Michelle Williams editorial in recent weeks but I was curious to see the rest so... I went digging. Why did it not come as a surprise to discover the styling was the handiwork of none other than Miss Leith Clark (aka one of my favorite ladies ever)! Such beautiful clothing... all of which I would like to own!

The only problem with this editorial (and I hate to get repetitive but it's so true) is that I really want to run for the closest pair of trimming shears whenever I see Michelle with her Mia Farrow-esque pixie cut. Honestly, it's such a strong urge its a wonder I haven't acted on it!

photos via: http://bohemea.tumblr.com

Meanwhile, has anyone reading seen "My Week With Marilyn" yet? What did you think?! I'm slightly scared to go because I am such a huge Marilyn fan and the preview honestly made me a little worried. I'm sure I won't be able to hold out that long and by this time next week I'll probably have seen it!

I hope you all have a marvelous weekend!!! xdjrd

**quote used in the post title/editorial is by Marilyn Monroe**

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:53:00.001-08:00

We are currently watching the (85th annual?) Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, drinking delicious coffee and cooking some veggie-friendly Thanksgiving goodies. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving - where ever you are!!

xdjrd

(photos via: here , here)

almost blue

2011-11-19T16:57:00.001-08:00

Knit season is upon us and I am exceedingly happy with this. After all, a love of bundling up is an inherent quality of mine. Most evenings, if I am at home, I'm likely to be found under a blanket or wrapped in a big sweater. Now it's actually cold enough to wear knits out of the confines of my home with out getting strange looks!

mid-shoot I found Bagheera lounging in his new favorite spot under our house.

outfit details:
blouse: vintage
sweater: h&m
skirt: old urban outfitters
boots: madewell
flower crown: by me

musical notes: elvis costello - almost blue (just because this song has been in my head all day and it kills me!)

step right up! step right up!

2011-11-16T20:55:00.001-08:00

I am a sucker for photos of vintage showgirls, ballerinas and the like... so... when I stumbled upon these incredible photos of circus performers from the 1940s and 50s, I basically shrieked with delight! Now I wanted to share them with you too...

(the mini chihuahua caught my eye for obvious reasons! I suppose I take it for granted that they are a new invention - not so!)

Now if only I could get my paws on those unbelievable costumes! I have a tiny collection of vintage stagewear (which someday I'll add to) but nothing this spectacular. I know some of these must exist out there in some old attic or crawlspace!

Images are originally from this book - photos found via how to be a retronaut

i put a spell on you...

2011-11-14T10:52:00.001-08:00

You may recall that I promised to post some video documentation of Dime Store Dollies (the pop–Cabaret group I started with my pal Beth Jean) so… without further ado, here is a little peek at the DimeStore Dollies Halloween show THE BLACK CAT'S MEOW! *This is only my second ever time singing on stage (first time singing on stage whilst in a tutu), so do be kind. Also, apologies for the shabby audio, my little camera didn't do the best job recording - in fact, I don't think it managed to get even one song the whole way through - but this should suffice for those interested!

I hope you all have a marvelous Monday! x

two months of me... plus the Shabby Apple winner!

2011-11-12T19:35:00.001-08:00

I keep forgetting to share this silly video which came from an app I downloaded on my iphone called "Everyday" after seeing it on a few blog's including Sandra's. The concept behind it is that you take one photo a day in more or less the same position and eventually you can them make them into little digital flip-books. Anyhow, the above video show me in basically all of September & some of October!

In more important news... I have selected the winner of the Shabby Apple Mulholland dress giveaway (using random.org) and the winner is #6... Maud!! which makes me especially happy because she had such a brilliant idea of where she's going to wear it..

"i'd wear it to celebrate seeing my boyfriend again after four months apart (he is still living in the UK, sigh!). i'd wear it for hours and hours while i was traveling, looking incongruously glamorous among all the glum, weary people making their way here and there for the holidays, but i'd feel pretty as a poppy when i'd finally get to see him and we'd go out to have dinner somewhere nice and then maybe dancing and it would be just like old times, when we'd dress up for no real reason, just to celebrate each other"

^ I adore that :D Thanks to all of you who entered and please don't despair! I'm going to try to make this giveaway business a more regular happening here! Have a lovely weekend x djrd

djrd + Shabby Apple = dress giveaway ENDED

2011-11-09T15:42:00.000-08:00

I had been contemplating another giveaway for several months but just couldn't find the right brand to link up with. When Shabby Apple approached me to do a women's dress giveaway I thought it would be the perfect collaboration – mainly because I am a sucker for a pretty dress! Anyhow...after carefully scouring the site for hours on end I decided the Mulholland party dress (pictured below) would be great for the holidays, which are quickly approaching! It's vintage inspired which always wins me over AND it's part of the Tinsel Town collection...I live in "tinsel town" so, personally, I thought it quite appropriate that I pick this one to giveaway.

the Mulholland

Now I'll stop boring you and get on to what you need to do to make this beauty all yours!

Step One… Click HERE to "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook

Step Two… Leave a comment here on DJRD saying where you might wear the dress if you got your paws on it! Don't forget an email address so I can get in touch if you are chosen!

A winner will be selected at random this Saturday and the giveaway is open to international readers too! Meanwhile, if you see something else that tickles your fancy simply enter the code "dondaughter10off" and you will magically get 10% off your purchase at checkout through the rest of November! Not bad, eh!?

I'm so excited to pick winner. Good luck to you all! xdjrd

velvet underground

2011-11-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday, lovelies! This is a dress I am finally getting around to posting even though I've been wearing it non-stop since I bought it in September. It is so dreamy and perfect for Fall - which, I think I am safe in saying, has finally reached Los Angeles...hurrah! This weekend we (at last) got to pull out the duvet again and coats have reemerged from the front closet! Though, I know it's nothing like the weather the East Coast has already begun to feel the wrath of! But, come on, it's all relative! We are babies over here and we know it.

Anyhow, this little Edwardian style mini-dress (I'm pretty certain it was once much longer) came into my world just as I had begun to drool over the first few episodes of Downton Abbey Series 2 and it really made my day! Doesn't it look like something Cora would have worn? (wow, I'm a nerd...)

Downton aside, I have a total velvet obsession -- it's one of the best things about cooler weather if you ask me.

outfit details:
dress - vintage from TLO
nude tights - american apparel
shoes - wasteland

Oh, I very quickly wanted to give you a heads up that there will be, at long last, another giveaway this week so be sure to check back! It's a good one.

musical notes: Sunday Morning - Velvet Underground

reckless daughter as lulu

2011-11-02T02:23:00.000-07:00

This year for Halloween I went as one of my favorite 1920s starlets, Louise Brooks. I've had this photo of Louise in her Ziegfeld Girl costume framed and hanging up in my house for years so I thought I'd brave the Tutu and give it a go! here is the result...

I think there is some video of the Dime Store Dollies Halloween set but until I get a hold of that this photo will have to suffice! (me as lulu & beth as an unknown cap with a blond mustache)

Boo!

2011-10-31T14:39:00.000-07:00

Have a wonderful Halloween everyone!

And remember, if you are in LA come down to BAR LUBISTCH for the Dime Store Dollies show - at 10:30pm! featuring me and some other (far more talented) musicians/performers! It is sure to be a fun time! xo

BAR LUBITSCH7702 Santa Monica BlvdWest Hollywood, CA 90046

dia de los muertos

2011-10-30T01:58:00.000-07:00

Since Halloween is basically upon us, I thought I would share some of the photos I snapped at the "Día de los Muertos" festival last weekend at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. It's the LA version of the Mexican version of All Hallows Eve (did you follow that?) In essence, a holiday celebrating the dearly departed. This particular version has an alter decorating contest, live music, indigenous dancers, costumes, food, spooky crafts, not to mention the graves of many a celebrity (two of the Ramones, Jane Mansfield, Toto from Wizard of OZ to name a few).

"The Brit" and I had tried to go earlier in the day but didn't end up getting there until dusk. In retrospect, I am sort of glad because its a bit more magical at nighttime with all the candles, lights strung around and alters that people painstakingly constructed. That said, I do wish my photos came out a little better.

I did not manage to take a photo of myself but I think you see my face on this blog enough to go one post with out seeing me staring back! but here's "the Brit"...

xdjrd

excuse the mess!

2011-10-27T23:39:00.000-07:00

As you might have noticed, djrd is getting a make-over. Please bear with me and stay tuned for a proper post very soon!

xdjrd

the black cat's meow!

2011-10-24T15:22:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give you lovely readers a bit more of a heads up about the next Dime Store Dollies* show which will happen at Bar Lubitsch on Halloween night... also known as, one week from today...eek!

Please come down to watch me and my wonderful bandmates perform a mixture of old timey and (this time 'round) Halloween themed songs! for more information visit the DSD's site...here. If you do come down be sure to introduce yourselves! I promise I don't bite!

Back soon with a proper post!

*Dimes Store Dollies are a Los Angeles-based "pop-cabaret" band founded in 2011 by my friend BethJean & I and featuring several other talented performers.

I saw the northern lights

2011-10-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

Excuse my pout in a few these photos - I'm afraid, between the sun in my eyes and my general tiredness on this particular occasion, I got a mixed bag of results. I promise I wasn't as moody as I appear.

I've really been trying to dig through the archives so to speak and wear things that have been put away for a while. (Aside from this cardigan, which I am sure you are all growing weary of - I can't help myself! It is really perfect for this in-between weather we've been having. Is is autumn is it summer...who can tell?) This nautical romper is about a year and a half old but I hid it away several months ago. I love doing that, it's like discovering treasure... instead of just tiring and discarding things you really do love deep down! Ok...I sound like a complete hoarder. I'm not one, I swear. This is not a rule to use on every last item in your closet. just a chosen few and I chose this.

outfit details:
romper - fletcher by lyell
shoes & bag - vintage
stockings - free people

musical notes: st.vincent - northern lights
I bought this album on a whim while in Nashville and haven't stopped listening since.

oh, tenenbaums

2011-10-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

I was completely taken aback when I saw somewhere that it was the 10th Anniversary of the release of THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS...how is that even possible!?! Anyhow, seeing as though I still count this as one of my very favorite films, I thought I'd do a little post. warning: this involves a mass quantity of screen caps and a clip or two...

a clip of one of my favorite bits...

Everything from the cast, to the script, to the production design (oh, and the soundtrack!) is perfection in my humble opinion. It still seems fresh 10 years later so I'm sure it will be one of those timeless films that holds up for decades to come. If you haven't seen it, you should!

screen caps via here & here

mobile device with a view...

2011-10-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

You may have seen one or two of these photos if you follow my twitter but here is a glimpse at the past month or so as seen by my iPhone...

late bloomers...

the red room...

matching shoes...

the brit on stage...

dime store dollie...

happy fingers...

dog days...

friends with babies...

car window gazing...

is it vegitarian?

leaving Nashville...

how does your garden grow...

on john's birthday...

fur-babies

midnight in the garden...

back soon with an Editorial post...if I can get my scanner working, that is!

one autumn night

2011-10-07T20:47:00.000-07:00

You all know by now that I love The Loved One! but wanted to share a few pictures from last week's Dear Creatures event at the TLO Pasadena store because it was such fun...

Beth Jean was my date for the night ;) Here she is with an amazing grape cardigan...

The store was all decked out for Fall. oranges, browns and yellow everywhere you looked.

I ate my fair share of these...

Both Elvia AND Hannah were there which made things even more enjoyable!

*I waited too long to do this post and have since forgotten the name of the sweet gal on the right with the awesome mermaid hair! shucks...

Me...with an adorable Dear Creatures pea coat in one hand, delicious punch and vintage in the other.

I tried to coax Beth Jean into getting this pretty blue dress...but failed.

True to form, I did not need coaxing to buy one of the vintage dresses I tried on. golly, those girls are good. I'll post this dress very soon. I've been wearing it to death!

We hung around for quite a while drinking that yummy pink punch, eating ginger snaps and chatting about anything and everything. The Loved One kids were all exhausted and took some well-deserved rest time...

Everyone had come and gone so we decided it was probably our turn and left the ladies to it...

Can't wait til their next event but I am sad Hannah has to go back home! We love having her in town.

PS: I'm sorry it's been a little slow here this week. Hoping to pick things up from here on!

Miss Q

2011-10-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

One last post about my Nashville trip before I move on... but this is a good one, I promise! I mentioned in the last post that I was able to meet up with Little Miss Quincy and her husband Johnny (who, incidentally, moved to Nashville last year). Don't you love it when people are even sweeter/lovelier than you had anticipated! That is just what happened, they are completely adorable and I was smitten. So glad I got to spend a lovely Nashville afternoon getting to know them a bit more.

I should mention that Johnny was kind enough to snap a few photos of us ladies as we pranced around in our vintages frocks…thanks, Johnny!

sidenote: Quincy's hair is so adorable it takes every fragment of will power I possess to keep growing mine longer when I see cute pixie cuts like hers...

I've been reading Quincy's blog and frequenting her online vintage shop since the very early days -- highly recommend visiting if you haven't!

I'm hoping to get back to Nashville again soon to visit all these wonderful people!

Reckless in Nashville

2011-09-30T01:19:00.000-07:00

Hello loves! This week has basically consisted of me playing catch up with the world after an amazing little trip to Nashville, Tennessee last week. I had been trying to go visit for months now and finally the stars alined. Plus I got to be there from my dear pal Ledja's birthday which was extra nice. Before I let the week pass I thought I'd share a few photos from my trip with you and mention a couple of places I visited and loved. *I should point out that after 5 days in Nashville I am hardly an expert. I did, however, have my friends there who were wonderful tour guides.

Please note most of these are restaurants because I ate a whole lot of food…

Loveless Cafe – This was basically the first stop on my trip... aside from dropping my bags at my friends Ledja & Davids house. Loveless is known for their delicious biscuits and despite the BBQ everywhere they had lots of friend veggie-friendly (albeit fried) side dishes. It is a bit out of the way but worth it, I think.

Marché – This is a little East Nashville gem... I had one of the most delicious meals of my trip here. I am a huge fan of breakfast and this definitely did the trick! Also, they make their own bakedgoods which pretty much sold me before I'd even had a bite.

Bongo Java – Surprisingly, there are a ton of little indie coffee shops in Nashville. I met up with one of my favorite bloggers, Quincy and her husband (post to follow!) at Bongo Java and had a delicious coffee called "the Diddy" still not sure if that is meant to be "diddy" as in little song or "diddy" as in p.diddy but I do know I enjoyed it. a lot.

Mercy Lounge – I was able to see a couple of shows while in town and I liked Mercy Lounge best. It's a very cool mid-sized venue.

Pancake Pantry – this place is a Nashville institution – even on a Monday morning there was a big line of people but it moved shockingly fast. I had the sweet potato pancakes which where delicious and I'm not the biggest pancake fan so that is saying something.

Grimey's record store – for the old school music enthusiasts that still buy records (ehem... like me). This reminds me so much of record stores I frequented while living in Seattle. I miss that!

Imogene + Willie - this store specializes in raw denim but has a variety of other things going on - including live bands occasionally. I saw a bunch of people around town wearing their cross t-shirts so clearly the locals are in to it as well. While its not really my style, it is such a cool space; you should definitely have a look. Plus it smells delicious inside, the owners are super nice, and this little pup lives there...

sidenote: being a Nashville dog seems like a sweet deal to me.

A few other places worth mentioning…
Las Paletas Gourmet Popsicles
City House
Katy K's Ranch dressing (vintage)

Well there you have it...lots o' fun packed in to a long weekend. In a nutshell, I will most definitely be returning to Nashville!

in with the old

2011-09-27T01:13:00.000-07:00

Just back from my little adventure to the South (which was fantastic!) but before I get into all of that here is another little post I meant to share before I left...

I think a common misconception people have of me/my closet is that I am always buying and wearing new things - I promise you this is not the case. I have many pieces that I hang on to for years and years and years. This little black cotton dress is the perfect example. I have had this dress for at least 4 years and though I do put it away for months at a time, I am always willing to revisit it because it is so easy to throw on. The secret, I think, is mixing pieces up and keeping them fresh.

I must admit, I paired it with something newish this time around - namely my sparkly platforms designed by Karen Elson for Nine West. They are my new favorites.

outfit details
dress - urban
shoes - karen elson for nine west
necklace - vintage

reckless daughter & her week of wonders

2011-09-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

Chances are, if you've been reading my blog for a while, you know that dresses are pretty much my favorite articles of clothing. You may also know that I am kind of/sort of in love with the color red. So, in a nut shell, dresses that involve the color red are of a particular interest to this little dress-hoarder. If this specific dress looks familiar then you probably read Rebecca's blog. While I don't often buy things after seeing them on blogs, when I saw this dress in a post some weeks back and then saw the equally alluring price tag well...let's just say I had a weak moment involving my debit card (did I mention it was super late at night??)

On a completely different note, it has recently come to my attention that if I don't curl my hair after drying it I have a sort of Valerie & Her Week of Wonders thing happening (albeit slightly frizzier). Not that this is a bad thing, I love that film, it just wasn't at all planned.

outfit details:
dress - chicwish
wendybird loafers - bass loves rachel antonoff
belt - primark

Speaking of wonders, I'm off on a little holiday later this week to a city I've never been to! Should be a wonderful time. I'll no doubt be posting all about it here so stay tuned!

reckless daughter film report: Qui êtes vous, Polly Maggoo?

2011-09-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, I sat down to watch a film I had been meaning to see for ages: Qui êtes vous, Polly Maggoo? It is one of those iconic 60s films that I knew I should watch but one that also collected dust in my Netflix queue for (quite literally) a year. Though I could easily let the photos do the talking, I may as well give you a bit of insight into the plot.

The film centers on a young American Supermodel (Polly Maggoo!) who is being followed around by a Television crew for a tv special.

There are several other narratives swirling around: the mad Editor-in-Chief of a fashion magazine (loosely based on Diana Vreeland) and her posse of "Yes women", the Prince of a small nation who is obsessed with marrying Polly, a fashion designer who uses galvanized steel and aluminum as "wearable" materials, etc...

For me one of the best things about the film is the irony that lies within it. Despite taking very clear satirical aim at the fashion industry and all the narcissistic / materialistic silliness perceived to be ingrained in its fabric (pun intended), the costumes and production design are truly gorgeous. Every other scene looks like an editorial straight out of 1966's Vogue. I suppose, if you are going to really go after a subject you need to do your homework to get the point across or risk looking out of touch.

Regardless, I appreciated both sides of this cinematic coin. And, while there isn't necessarily a moral resolution for the heroine you get the sense that things will change for her in the near future.

If you are a fan of 60s fashion and cinema you'll definitely appreciate this film.

photos from killerslikecandy & shelley.se

romance & other rumours

2011-09-17T13:29:00.000-07:00

For those of you who couldn't be there... a few photos from the debut of our pop-cabaret act The Dime Store Dollies!

The idea behind Dime Store Dollies is to take well know pop-songs (60s through present) and give them a 1920s makeover. This time we dealt with songs about love and heartache. To give you an idea, a few of the songs we covered were... Lovefool - the Cardigans / Real Love - John Lennon / After You've Gone - Marion Harris (this was actually from the 20s) / Take on Me - A-ha (plus others).

I am told that it went very well but in my head it was all a bit of a nervous blur! We didn't have many photos from the show this time - luckily, the Brit snapped these ones! but we are planning another show in late October so do not fret if you missed us, there will be a round two!

Oh, one last thing, I wanted to quickly give a little mention to Sue at Giant Dwarf who made these amazing starlette crowns!! It's pretty much my favorite thing ever! thanks again, Sue!

xdjrd

Reckless Daughter does FNO-LA and then some

2011-09-14T22:37:00.000-07:00

First order of business, I want to thank every last one of you who made it out to my Dime Store Dollies show Monday. We had a ball and I will post photos later this week!

Now...Lets travel back in time... more specifically, to last Thursday aka Fashion's Night Out which just so happened to coincide with "the Brit"s Album Release Show at the Troubadour! I'd never done FNO before so I thought I'd give it a whirl since I couldn't be in NY for fashion week this time 'round.

Busy bunnies that night. I met up with Beth Jean on Melrose in West Hollywood because we knew there were a few things happening in that area... plus, I love Marc Jacobs so any excuse to visit those stores is ok by me.

We started off with a bang (and a cute little can of Sophia) at BookMarc -- which I had not yet been to. It is essentially an art/fashion bookstore that also sells a bunch of MJ accessories. We hung around there for a while, scoured the books and met a few people. We then mozied on over to the Diane Von Furstenburg boutique because we were told they had all sorts of fun things happening including a very special photobooth...

Which made these little flip-books! They recorded 15 seconds or so of photos and then printed out for you bookstyle! (these Instagram photos don't really do it justice but, trust me, it is super cute). Next to the booth was a table full of DVF accessories you could throw on. I really wanted that black & white scarf I'm wearing in the book because it reminded me of a Tim Burton movie.

People there were so lovely. These two darlings who were kind enough to let me snap their photo! (thanks ladies!)

After store hopping a bit it came time to switch locations. So we headed to Opening Ceremony to see what was going on there.

We drank a little more wine (feeling good at this point) and I tried on some adorable polka-dot Repetto flats. Alas... they did not have my size which was probably for the best (for my bank account). We had one last stop before dinner/"the Brit's" show...the Stella McCartney boutique!

Things were sort of winding down by the time we got there but the Stella girls (Kelly & Kendra) we super sweet plus they entertained us! I even got them to do their best "fashion blogger poses" for me...

in a word: amazing...

BethJean bought perfume while I drooled over velvet smoking jackets and lace dresses that probably cost more than my rent. We then moved to the Little Door (where we ate dinner) but because I was so hungry by that point the camera was the last thing on my mind. Once we were done it was time to head to The Troubadour! to watch "the Hopelessly Devoted" (the Brit's side-project).

boys in the band...

showtime...

They had a great crowd. Everyone was dancing. Including my gal pals Kristin & Britt...

After the show we got to hangout backstage which was a bit of a thrill for me because the Troubadour has such history and I've seen so many great bands there.

By the end of the evening I was a sweaty wrinkled mess!!

secret project revealed! introducing the Dime Store Dollies

2011-09-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hello loves! I wanted to take a moment invite you all (particularly those of you in LA who can make it) to the debut of a 1920s infused pop-cabaret project The Dime Store Dollies. This is something I've been wanting to do for a long time and now - through a collaboration with my dear (musically inclined genius of a) friend, Beth Jean - it's happening for real! If you find yourself looking for something to do this evening (and you aren't in NYC for fashion week -- still jealous I'm missing it btw) PLEASE come down to BAR LUBITSCH in West Hollywood and introduce yourself! It all kicks off at 10:30pm! (the Brit plays a set with his band just before us at 10pm so it's a two for one!) Tickets are $5 at the door and it's 21+.For those of you who can't make it, fear not, there will be a DSD post in the near future!!wish me luck!! xdjrd

sparrow and urchin

2011-09-10T20:05:00.000-07:00

Hey kids! I’m over at Sparrow & Urchin today for a guest post with the Chihuahuas... see you there!

they'll run your circus right out of town

2011-09-09T23:05:00.000-07:00

Hello my dears...it is time for another edition of Marc Jacobs heart print dress! Just in case you missed this old gem. The fact of the matter is this week has been H-O-T here in la-la land so the least amount of clothing I could wear (and remain appropriate) the better.

I also pulled out my parasol while I snapped these photographs - this time it was almost entirely for practical purposes.

outfit details:
dress - marc by marc jacobs
flats - urban
parasol - street vendor

By the by...I've been slaving away over some photos from FNO last night but that post isn't quite ready yet, I'm afraid. Stay tuned for that AND other news!!!

musical notes: sarah slean - parasol

I don't mind racing through our goodbyes

2011-09-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

I don't really go thrifting any more because I find that most (there are a couple of exceptions) thrift stores in LA are extremely picked over. I cannot for the life of me remember where I got this dress but I know if came from a goodwill somewhere in greater Los Angeles - I am sure I was probably dropping off a bunch of things for donation and stumbled inside expecting not to find anything. It had been laying atop pile of "to alter" items that only actually get altered around once or twice a year! But I finally got around to shortening it to a semi-wearable length. It ended up a bit shorter than I would have liked but I'm still a novice with the sewing machine... these things happen.

outfit details:
dress -thrifted/self altered
necklace - a gift
shoes - wendybird by bass♥rachel antonoff

musical notes: having a rilo kiley day today...capturing moods - rilo kiley

I hope you all had a lovely weekend. I've got several little projects happening at the moment so stay tuned! xdjrd

swoon-worthy small screen: downton abbey

2011-08-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make, an especially shocking confession given my involvement in the Entertainment Industry career-wise. Here goes... I barely watch any television. at all. Honestly, apart from (once in a blue moon) switching CNN on in the background while perusing the internets and, of course, watching my beloved MadMen (but even that is via Netflix!) it is an increasingly rare thing to find me watching actual live TV. I'm not even sure why we have cable apart from the Brit needing his English "football". I suppose, it is the security of knowing it is there should I need it. For example, say I become obsessed with a new show accidentally? Which, funnily enough, is exactly what happened to me a week or two ago when I discovered the English series Downton Abbey.

The series (created by Julian Fellowes...writer of Gosford Park, among other things) centers on a manor house called Downton Abbey and the trials and tribulations of it's inhabitants. Namely, the aristocratic Crawley family who owns it and their (dozen or so) servants. The show takes place in the early 1900s and, similarly to MadMen, historical events occasionally have an effect on the storyline - which is part of what drew me in from the first episode. I am lover of history and historical fiction. But wow... the costumes definitely did not hurt. They are, in a word, incredible...

The millinery alone is worthy of its own post! I do love a good hat. I found myself literally gasping at the costumes in every other scene. They are pure Georgian perfection which only adds to the beautiful / tumultuous narrative unfolding in Season One.

It nearly killed me when I found there were only seven (hour long) episodes in the first season but they are shooting Season Two as we speak! Still, I'm bound to be revisiting a few episodes down the line.

OK! I have to stop myself here because I don't want to spoil it for you but there are so many costumes that I loved and couldn't find photos of! Again, all of Season One is on Netflix and the new season starts this fall in the UK (on iTV, I think?) and PBS in the US but not until January (boo...)

photos via here & here.

the shields are left to rust

2011-08-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Vintage shawls and kimonos have always been an obsession of mine – though, in truth, I only actually own a few. None the less, I remain fan of romantic layering so I've been pleasantly surprised to see these sorts of things popping up in more modern stores lately.

Case in point, I found this kimono-esque top at (probably the worlds biggest) Forever 21 in Las Vegas and my mother was nice enough to buy it for me. Something thin like this is perfect when summer layering proves tricky and/or sticky. It's light weight enough to breath but keeps me warm when the evenings cool off. The other positive is that the color will definitely fit in with my wardrobe ideas for Fall - it's the perfect rusty autumn hue.

outfit details:
top: xxi
tank & shorts: h&m
tights: cynthia rowley
shoes: vintage
puppy head: lola the chihuahua

PS: I hope all of my east coast lovelies made it through nasty old Irene and that you are sitting comfortably at home with electricity buzzing in the wires and water running in the pipes!

and speaking of water...

musical notes: what the water gave me - florence + the machine's new single...

DJRD Presents: A mini-guide to Las Vegas

2011-08-26T00:58:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to do a travel guide post for a very long time. I love to travel and it is always helpful to read about places you are going beforehand - especially if the suggestions are coming from someone who you know has similar taste or whose opinion you trust - like bloggers you follow, friends, locals, etc. So after our little trip last weekend I figured I would do a "mini-guide" to Las Vegas and take a moment tell you about some places I like to shop/visit while I am bumming around the Nevada desert with my family! Do keep in mind that this is not going to include clubs, bars &amp; restaurants (though I do know a handful so email if you really need that type of advice!) these are just things that might be different to your typical visit to "Vegas"...

Vintage/Antiques

I don't get to vintage/thrift shop in Las Vegas very often but this past weekend I did drag "the Brit" with me to a couple of places I used to frequent back when lived there...

THE ATTIC - 1025 S Main St (downtown)

Visiting the Attic is a bit like invading the actual attic of someone's eccentric/hoarder grandmother but you can find some really cool things amongst the oddities.

The shop recently moved across the street from it's old location and it doesn't quite hold up to its former glory but is still definitely worth a visit. It is located in a industrial area that backs up against the "Art District" in downtown but it is very near the Strip and fairly easy to get to!

CHARLESTON ANTIQUE MALL - 307 W Charleston Blvd (downtown LV)

This is a fairly large antique mall also very near the Strip - sidenote: when I lived there it was called Red Rooster Antiques and painted red which is a bit classier if you ask me... no one did. The "mall" is separated into different sellers stalls/rooms and while there is a lot of old retro junk and memorabilia (for example, the Brit almost bought an Elvis watch) you can find some pretty great things (clothing, accessories, nicknacks, furniture) at decent prices.

I wanted this old vintage display elephant with original rings intact. Alas, the Brit didn't think we had a place for it :( and he's probably right.

Be sure to find the Tiki Room. It's like a time-warp straight back to the 60s - has it's own soundtrack too!

I really could spend hours in there and half expected to bump into Don Draper.

Flashy new things...

FASHION SHOW MALL - 3200 Las Vegas Blvd S.

I have been going to this mall since I was a small child and it keeps getting bigger and better, and looks more and more like a spacestation from the outside (see above photo - not taken by me). I was also green with envy when I noticed that they are getting a TOPSHOP! Other shops include... Nordstroms, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Zara, the world's biggest Forever 21 (seriously huge - it used to be a whole department store), J.Crew, Kate Spade, Betsy Johnson and loads more which you can read about here.

Forum Shops at Caesars Place where you'll find Agent Provocateur, H&M, Marc Jacobs, Anthropologie, Juicy Couture, Intermix as well as designer places I do not allow myself to go into...Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Dior, etc. I think it is also important to note that the Forum was the first of the "hotel malls" in Las Vegas and the first to have a faux-sky ceiling that changes from day tonight. Credit where credit is due, people.

Honorable mention...
Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood because they have an H&M, Urban Outfitters and Sephora.

a few of my favorite hotels to visit...

the Bellagio
the Cosmopolitan
the Wynn
Caesar's Palace

Off the beaten path...

If you are looking for a little escape from the Strip here are a few of my favorite things:

Neon Bone Yard where old Las Vegas signage goes to die - also a pretty interesting museum.

Red Rock Canyon a national park with hiking trails, camping, etc. Best to visit in the spring/fall since it gets supremely hot in the summer time. (photo via)

Also in the Red Rock area is Spring Mountain Ranch where you can tour Howard Hughes' Ranchhouse. Howard Hughes (yes, of the Aviator fame) was an important figure in Las Vegas history. He also owned at least half the land in the area at one time or another. This house was a little getaway for he and his wife at the time and is still filled with little eccentricities including a secret room or two. (photo via)

Hoover Dam (photo by ansel adams) is about a 40minute drive from the Strip. Fun facts: it was constructed in the 1930s, over 100 people died trying to build it, and is located right smack dab between Nevada and Arizona state-lines on the Colorado river. It is really hard to explain how impressive this is. It is something you really should see for yourself. You can even take a tour inside the damn which I think I did in, maybe, the 3rd grade but really want to do again.

Well, that is it for now. I hope you enjoy!

all you need is...

2011-08-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

"The Brit" and I just got back from a little mini-break to visit my family in Las Vegas. As you may or may not know, I lived in Las Vegas from basically kindergarten until age 17 (ie: most of my childhood). And while it is, I suppose, a strange place to call home, my usual visits consist of normal family-time activities (catching up, eating, movie-watching, shopping, pool swimming, eating again). This trip we got a little surprise...my Mom had arranged tickets for us to go see the Beatles LOVE! I have always been a huge Beatles fan, basically since the womb, and I was pretty excited to see what the show was all about. So, on Friday night we put on our best Las Vegas-show-going outfits and skipped over to the Mirage hotel.

As we approached the theater the atmosphere became a bit more, ehem, multicolored!

With some time to kill before the show started, we headed for the gift shop where we had way too much fun playing around with Beatles swag and fun-house mirrors...

I bought a couple of things for my fellow Beatle-loving-friends and we headed into the theater.

Sadly, there was a strict "no camera" policy inside the theater so the proper camera had to go away...

BUT I did manage to snap a little of the theater (pre-show) with my trusty iphone camera...

And, as the show ended, I also caught some of the aftermath...

I wish I could have taken just a few photos during the show for you but trust me when I tell you... it was a magical experience. My favorite parts mostly involved confetti, bubbles and, of course, the aerial performers swinging from the rafters because I secretly want to be a trapeze artist ;)

(*top image via | the others by me and/or "the Brit")

some thursday ramblings

2011-08-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hello lovelies...This is apt to be a scatter-brained post but there are a few things I've been meaning to post about and I don't want to sit on them any more so...I thought I'd just do a post about them all in one go!

Firstly (and if you follow me on twitter you may have seen this)... last week I was featured over at Chévere Vintage answering a few questions. You can find that here!

Second... I got to see miss Sandra last weekend and she did a post about some of our adventure here.

Third... I somehow missed this gorgeous editorial from Marie Claire AU back in April but thanks to Sally Jane Vinage I discovered it! (top photo is from this Ed)

I may as well mention that I have been posting some outtakes from Reckless Daughter Wardrobe posts on my tumblr occasionally, among other inspiring fare! So feel free to see for yourself.

And last but not least, IT'S MY 3 YEAR BLOGIVERSARY! Hard to believe, isn't it! Anyhow, I just want to say thanks to all of you lovely visitors! You help make this blog what it is and I love you for that! xoxo DJRD

Now, I'm off on a little mini trip but I'll be reporting back shortly!

running up that hill

2011-08-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

Why not another Kate Bush themed post to kick off the new week, eh? And this one actually has a tangible reasoning behind it... namely, my new "there is thunder in our hearts" tote from Fieldguided.
(For those of you not in the know, those are lyrics from a kate bush song from which this post gets it's title)

I had watched this bag pop up in various places lately and decided I needed one in my life. I have plenty of canvas bags but none of them are as pretty as this.

This version of the tote is actually dip dyed in a rosy color (though it's a bit hard to decipher in these photos). Take my word for it, it's dreamy in person!

outfit details
bag - fieldguided
dress - american apparel
slip - vintage
belt - kate moss for topshop
shoes -uo

I also think it's high time for another round of "name that obscure plant from my garden" - Last time someone actually knew what the plant was, much to my surprise! Here is the plant in question...

anyone have a guess? If so, leave it in the comments ;)

waking the witch

2011-08-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

It may be that we are on the tail end of summer and that this time of year reminds me of camping/being out in nature, but I love these shots from Tabitha Gwyn Osle's Burning Bush series which I came across on Clever Nettle...

This muted color scheme is right up my alley. I've also been feeling a bit witchy (in the best sense of the term) these days.

and the blog played on...

2011-08-09T01:44:00.000-07:00

At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I have to say, it takes a bit self-motivation to keep blogging on days when crazy things are happening in the world; things that make dressing up and taking photos of one's self seem a bit silly. But then, my blog is one of my (favorite) ways of connecting to people from all sorts of places across the world so I suppose it's sort of comforting to come here, acknowledge everything but keep forging on. And so, with that little motto in mind, here is a new post...

I had quite the busy weekend running around town working on various projects - some of which will be revealed in coming weeks. I also finally got around to visiting the Pasadena City College Flea Market (which I recommend seeing for yourself, in case you are curious). I've still been digging around in the dark recesses of my closet pulling out rarely-wore items and that is where I unearthed this vintage blouse. I used to wear it quite often but have not for quite literally a year, maybe longer.

I'm glad I did not give it away. Some things just need to be put away for a while and rediscovered when the time is right - that is, as long as you aren't taking it to the extreme and becoming a hoarder or something.

outfit details:
shirt -- vintage laura ashley
shorts -- alexandra grecco
shoes -- vintage
necklace -- gift from "the Brit"

take care my dears. love to you all! x djrd

la-la-lolita

2011-08-06T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure what it would take for me to tire of Lolita themed editorials and this one in August's Velour Magazine is no exception...

model -- Kristy Kaurova photographer -- Robert Harper
stylist -- Verity Parke
images via fashiongonerogue

The question is...what article of clothing don't I want from this editorial!

Have a lovely Saturday!

a thousand pages, give or take a few...

2011-08-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

What is better than a new pair of shoes, one might ask? I am a tad fussy when it comes to my footwear and, as a result, once I find a pair that I like I have been known to wear them to death. I've been wearing a lot of heels and wedges as of late - partly because I was in the mood but also because I had been on the search for a replacement for my favorite (recently kaput) flats.
I ended up buying these woven flats at Urban Outfitters recently because a) they came in half-sizes (rare for Urban's shoes) and b) they seemed pretty sturdy compared to other flats I've tried recently. They are also black and brown so I think they will go with a wide rage of outfits.
So far so good, though I may be wearing them too much - in other words... three out of the last four days. Forgive me if they show up here again soon!
outfit details:
romper - h&m
cardigan & brooch - vintage
shoes - u.o.

Now back to reading to F.Scott Fitzgerald's This Side of Paradise! I have been working on being a better reader as I have a collection of a dozen or so half-read books on my bedside table that have been collecting dust for months!

musical notes:

moving pictures

2011-07-30T14:40:00.000-07:00
I actually posted a few of these magical gifs, aptly called "Cinemagraphs", on my tumblr but thought they were most definitely worth dedicating a blog post to. I like gifs in general but these are particularly breathtaking. They are a collaboration Visual Graphics Artist, Kevin Burg and Photographer, Jamie Beck and, well...just see for yourself...

more here.

wednesday's child

2011-07-28T07:11:00.000-07:00
It's been all outfit posts here lately so I thought I'd share a little bit of my Wednesday with you - starting in the afternoon...
with little charlie girl
the canyon coffee stand
painted daisies
To prove that I really do work! this is some of the space.
there is a little surprise in the courtyard...
a fish pond!
On my way back home.
to meet "the Brit" and the pups (that adorable house is not ours, sadly)

Sidenote... I've been terrified about some Laurel Canyon news I heard earlier this week. Tuesday morning a man was walking his his dogs (one of them a Chihuahua) and a very brazen coyote appeared out of nowhere, ignored the man standing there and managed to grab the poor little Chihuahua! Being a Chihuahua owner/an animal lover, this story breaks my heart and also makes me a little nervous about taking our dogs on walks or letting the cat outside. I'm told this is pretty unusual since coyotes are normally scared off by humans - still an awful story. Ah, canyon life!
twilight in the garden.
hello!
a cat in the kitchen.
I love summertime fruits. I mean, what is happier than a bowl of cherries?
except maybe candy colored nails!
and goodnight.

Hope you are having a pleasant week! xdjrd

if you have to ask...

2011-07-27T01:44:00.000-07:00

I've finally gotten around to updating my dusty old Frequently Asked Questions page and it can be found here (and in my sidebar!)

xoDJRD

I'm no botanist, you see...

2011-07-25T23:45:00.000-07:00

Everything is looking so amazing out it our garden that I've been spending as much time as possible outside (with plenty of sunblock, of course). I suppose there is something to be said for Southern California's ability to keep plants looking beautiful almost year round but things look particularly magical in the summer.
There are so many crazy looking plants in our garden that were here before we moved in. This one for example...
It looks like it's from Mars. If you happen to know what it is, let me know! That way next time someone asks I will appear as though I know what I am talking about.
outfit details
dress - xxi
cardigan & brooch - vintage
shoes - vintage

musical notes: I posted a new 1920s/30s inspired playlist here. enjoy!

mild-eyed mender

2011-07-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little post before I run out to go watch "the Brit's" band! This week has just zipped by and I really meant to post these yesterday, alas, better late than not at all. As you can see, I've been sporting the milk-maid braids, a go-to hair do for summertime! But I have to admit they are a little more fun with bangs!
In keeping with my trying to wear a mix of new and old, here is my trusty heart-print dress (which is not vintage) paired with my blue 50s cardigan (which is). I know, I know...I've been wearing these sandals too much but i LOVE them. But I promise next post I will be sporting different footwear! ...I think...
outfit details:
dress - marc by marc jacobs
shoes: hasbeens for h&m
cardigan - vintage

musical notes:

back soon with different shoes! Have a lovely weekend!

follow me down to the rose parade

2011-07-18T01:08:00.000-07:00

Well kids...I decided to give myself a little challenge to not wear vintage for a few days. Nothing against any of my wardrobe but I feel like throwing on "x" vintage dress has become my modus operandi this summer and I want to change it up a little. Which brings us to this little ensemble featuring some cute little pink h&m tap pants that haven't nearly had enough attention since I bought them earlier in the year.
I've also been really into painting my nails lately and found a great color by essie the other day that is very bright and summery. Plus it's called "rose bowl" which I think is so cute! It's a little hard to tell here but it's a bright pinkish/red hue (*update: here is the color).
shorts and wedges: h&m
bow belt: primark
nail color: rose bowl by essie

musical notes: rose parade - elliott smith

Now it's off to finish Season 4 of MadMen...I know, I'm still so behind the times. To be fair, I watched the first couple seasons ages ago and I'd forgotten how addicting it can be!

white heat

2011-07-13T23:34:00.000-07:00
Last weekend I had to run a few errands and meet up with "the Brit" and so, I conveniently found myself in Pasadena. Convenient because The Loved One shop just so happens to be there and it was the perfect excuse to drop in! We hung around the store (we being my friend Bean and I) chatting to Elvia (one of the owners) and before I knew it they had both talked me into buying this little white frock - but I didn't need much convincing...

A bit difficult to see the detail in these photos but it is really gorgeous.
outfit details, simple & sweet...
dress - the loved one
shoes - hasbeens for h&m

Do you wear noticeably white more in the summertime? I find myself drawn to white on occasion but I never associate the color with one season - I'm just as likely to wear it in the winter or spring - maybe not so much in the fall. I do think that it feels nice to be wearing white on a really hot day, though.

musical notes: eleanor friedberger - my mistakes

my velvet summer

2011-07-10T18:41:00.000-07:00

As a rule, I would say that wearing black velvet during the summer is a bad call (and potential cause for heatstroke) but this little velvet number has been my go-to "throw it on in the morning and go get a coffee" outfit lately. Because of it's loose fitting nature I don't feel like I'm wearing winter garb rather a nice little summer dress that happens to be made of black velvet! rules schmules!
Ok...so, admittedly, I'm not out sun-bathing in this! But I just bought a new bathing suit so it all works out very nicely.
outfit details
dress -- vintage via etsy
shoes --swedish hasbeens for h&m

see you soon! xdjrd

summer sun

2011-07-06T00:02:00.000-07:00

This editorial from Bullett Magazine (a collaboration with International Playground) feels just like summer and makes me want to whip my hair up into messy braids, don bright colored clothing and chunky jewelery then lounge around in the sunshine (which spf50, of course)!
There is something David Hamilton-esqu about these dreamy shots which is always a good thing in my book!
Photographer Andrew Katzowitz
Stylists Janice Chou and Gabriel Marques
Models Amanda Streich and Nathalie Sorrell, Muse Models
Hair and Makeup Jonathan Rackleff for MAKE UP FOREVER

musical notes - fiona apple & jon brion cover buddy holly


PS: Last chance to ask me your questions for my FAQ update. You can ask in the comments or tweet me!

red white & blue

2011-07-04T14:46:00.000-07:00
Happy Fourth of July to my American readers! I am not actually wearing this today - I wore it on Saturday but the color scheme seemed appropriate to save for today's post....
I've posted this dress many times in various "remixes" in the past but I haven't worn it too recently. It may even be new to you if you haven't been reading DJRD long. It reminds me of a costume from a Jean Luc Godard film which likely has something to do with me loving it so.

outfit details:
dress --vintage
bracelets --mix of vintage and new
shoes -- swedish hasbeens for h&m

musical notes:
my america by a camp

iphone photo friday!

2011-06-30T23:45:00.000-07:00
Hooray... it is a holiday weekend (in the US, that is)! For a bit of a change I thought we would take a minute and explore my life over the past couple of months, as seen by my iPhone's camera...

The Brit's newphew and Cornish pasties

                                                                                   a black cab and British Vogue...

       first signs of summer and hammocktime

the Brit's band & pups

a fluffy black cat and pretty party decorations

Christopher Walken street art and little Charlie

< my obsession with crazy Japanese photo apps
                                                       double vision...

crepes
                                  Tim Burton Exhibit

first peonies of the summer

and more hammock...

That's all for now. have a great weekend!

heatwave

2011-06-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

Seems that summer is here to stay but that won't stop me from wearing dark colors. The heat may, however, continue to cause me grief with my hair -- in particular, with my fringe sticking to my forehead. It's my first summer with bangs in a long time and I'd forgotten all about this unfortunate phenomena. Luckily, they held up ok for these shots but I'm sure there will be a few sweaty disheveled photo-shoots in my near future!
It's not all bad though, I've been clocking so serious hammock-time and perhaps remedied my Vitamin D deficiency at the same time.
outfit details
romper - topshop
headband - vintage bow-tie
boots - ac for madewell
bracelet - a gift

musical notes

By the by, I am in the process of updating my FAQs page so if you have any questions for me feel free to ask!

Is it really so strange?

2011-06-24T21:40:00.000-07:00
So kiddies...this is one of the amazing frocks I bought on the opening day of The Loved On e shop that I've been going on and on about! I am a bit smitten with it to tell the truth. I adore navy and I've been trying to buy more blue-hued things for my wardrobe. Good start, I say!
I was still pretty under the weather when we took these pictures but I am starting to think I'm getting over this cough/flu bug that I caught last weekend. Who gets colds in the Summer?! Apparently me.

Thanks to "the Brit" for helping me with these photos!
outfit details:
dress - vintage from TLO
shoes - vintage
bracelet - Vivienne Westwood (a gift from my incredible penpal! thanks Emina!!)

Musical notes: A certain Englishman I live with has been complaining that Morrissey's current band ruined any Smiths songs they played at Glastonbury today - in his honor I thought I would post...

I hope each and every one of you has a lovely weekend. See you soon. xdjrd

it's...the happiest place on earth!

2011-06-21T23:08:00.000-07:00
Recently, I took a trip to Disneyland (which located is about 45 minutes outside of Los Angeles, in case you were curious). I've been many times but it never gets old to me. Here are a few pictures we snapped...
Pirates of the Caribbean...
The Brit pretending to be afraid of the Haunted Mansion
Thunder Mountain (which the Brit is actually afraid of)
psychedelic Winnie the Pooh ride
waiting in line for Star Tours
a much needed churro break
a quick hop over to California Adventure (or as we dubbed it "Unfinished land")
to go on the Little Mermaid Ride because we're really still 6 years old..
we also went on a little ride I like to call... the swings of death...
then back over to pioneer-land to catch the fireworks
last but certainly not least...
*It was a long day at Disneyland and there are plenty more photos on my flickr page!

Have you been to Disneyland (world, Euro Disney, etc)? What's your favorite ride??

smaller times...

2011-06-17T00:24:00.000-07:00
I've been meaning to scan in some photos of me as a little lass for ages and I finally got around to it! Without further ado...me, around age 5 1/2 or 6
loved that kitten =^,^= (he was called Figaro)
me (please note the tie-dye) & my mum ^
little genie

jumping and in acid-wash jeans to boot. very uncharacteristic of my stylish little mum to let me wear those. ha.
Showing off what is presumably my first lost tooth gap :)

a few more observations...
I have basically the same hair cut now
I really wish they made adult-sized sleepers, complete with the feets! don't you?
I had some awesome toys! where did they all go?!
my little sister was born right around this time...oh yeah...that's where the toys all went.
what ever happened to wall stenciling as home decor?
Hopefully, this is the slightest bit entertaining to you all! I may have more to share down the line but I'll have to pillage them from my parents house like I did these!

xdjrd

I want candy

2011-06-14T23:25:00.000-07:00
Is it bad to buy yourself gifts for your own birthday? I'm not sure why I'm even offering that up as a possibility because its too late! I've turned buying myself a celebratory item (or two) into an annual thing, this year was no exception... but how could I say no to this striped amazingness I turned up while digging through the pages of Asos.com last month? It looks like candy!

The ribbon tied at the waist did not actually come with the dress - I added it after the fact to spice it up a bit.

I also would have worn more exciting footwear for you guys but I went to the Rosebowl Flea Market on this particular day which loosely translates to "you'd be mad to wear any sort of heel and this I've learned this the hard way"
like I said, no birthday-buyer's remorse here!
outfit details
dress -- asos.com
belt -- self made
shoes -- uo
hat -- h&m

"see you real soon!" (< this is a hint about an upcoming post by the way!)

❥❥ The Loved One Shop on Holly Street ❥❥

2011-06-10T01:37:00.000-07:00
Last Saturday (also known as my actual birthday) the Brit and I wandered over to Pasadena for the opening of a very special shop! The Loved One's very first official "brick & mortar" store, which just so happened to be opening for business on that very same day. a splendid coincidence!

Hannah had pretty daisies sewn into the back of her dress...
"The Brit" and Landon met for the first time...
Corndogs... which I nearly broke my vegetarianism over - honestly, it was a test of will.
The cutest ever shop girls...
The store, like all of Hannah & Elvia's TLO endeavors, is a gem! I can't wait to go back to take another peek. If you are in LA/Pasadena you should definitely go have a looksee!
the face of a happy birthday girl with two lovely new frocks (which I promise to show you soon)!
*some of these photos were taken by "the Brit"

Have a wonderful weekend! xdjrd

handle me with care

2011-06-07T02:04:00.000-07:00
Well, it's probably high time I did a conventional outfit post, isn't it?! With all the events happening in my world this past month I haven't done too many of them. What I've been wearing hasn't changed that much, expect for the fact that it's basically summer weather here in LA (with the exception of a few chilly evenings) and thus...the shorts with bare legs have emerged!

Recently, I received this cool little bag from a label called Fabric & Handle in the mail. It's called the Maryl tote and its simple, comes in a bunch of fun patterns AND my camera fits inside which is a prerequisite for bags in my wardrobe. Incidentally, it can also fit a small chihuahua quite comfortably...
I love the pattern but my favorite feature has to be the adjustable "snap-on" handles.
Fabric & Handle is also offering a special 10% discount for DJRD readers. Just enter the following discount code at check out: FAH2010
outfit details
top: primark
shorts: alexandra grecco
bad: fabric & handle
shoes: vintage

See you soon! xdjrd

musical notes: handle with care - jenny lewis (traveling wilbury's cover)