Everyday Icon: Michelle Obama and The Power of Style by Kate Betts

Considering that everyone's attention is turned to the 2016 Presidential Election, I thought it would be fun to take a step back and read something else for different perspective. 

I went to the library with the sole intention of finding Betts' latest novel, My Paris Dream, but as I walked past the shelves, I spotted the bright pink binding and The First Lady's dress on the cover.

I have always admired The First Lady, but Betts' thoughtful examination of Michelle's history and character in context to her immaculate, yet approachable presentation left a lasting impression.

It's one thing to simply highlight Michelle's self-accomplished past as a graduate from Princeton and Harvard and former career as Vice President of Community and External Affairs for the University of Chicago Medical Center—but to explore the way in which The First Lady's intellect, sincerity, poise and strength presents itself in her choice of designers and brands and article of clothing is beyond fascinating.

What I love the most about this book is how Betts reiterates the general discussion of style, its significance and the role plays in everyday life. Style is an extension of the self—it has the power to communicate so much about a person, professionally and personally.

Rachel Zoe was absolutely right—"style is a way to say who you are without having to speak."

New Year's Style Resolutions

Every year, I try to build on my personal style and get a better understanding of what I like might look good, or what I have yet to try. Flipping through my Pinterest boards and Chictopia has given me ideas on what to wear for 2013 and made me realize that I have to focus more on subtle details, shoes, and jewelry. In the spirit of being a more eco-conscious shopper, I still want to stick with designer consignment and local boutiques as much as possible.

Source: lemademoiselleuk.tumblr.com via Mia on Pinterest

2013 Style Inspiration: Cool. Polished. Glam.

Source: chictopia.com via Mia on Pinterest

I really want to master the effortless polished casual style, as seen in Cara J's look on Chictopia. The outfit itself is classic, but the fit of the blazer, the color of the pants, and the style of the shoes make this cool.  I would add is a few different bracelets for accessories.

Source: shop.nordstrom.com via Mia on Pinterest

Michael Kors and kate spade bangles, available at Nordstrom

Source: chictopia.com via Mia on Pinterest

The bright messenger satchel worn by Generique, another Chictopian, has been a hot trend the latter half of 2012 that I think will carry over in the new year. Again, the understated cool pops in without trying too hard.

Source: chictopia.com via Mia on Pinterest

Black will always dominate my wardrobe, but I need to find pieces that better balance soft with edge. This New Year's outfit by DentelleFleurs of Chictopia is still edgy, but the subtle HiLo cut of the top and the more intricate detail make it light.

Source: chictopia.com via Mia on Pinterest

One of the ways to wear black without being dressed in it head-to-toe is finding good graphic prints. Kryz Uy achieves the soft-edged look in a graphic print and the HiLo hem.

Source: Uploaded by user via Mia on Pinterest

When Jessica Alba stepped out in this nude and white outfit, I absolutely fell in love. There are tones of white with neutral-colored accessories that are of a unique design. The long-brimmed fedora hat and pointed toe wedges add interest to the outfit. 

Source: whatsaybeauty.tumblr.com via Mia on Pinterest

But seriously, I am in desperate need of a gold rush of bracelets and rings...

Source: google.com via Meg on Pinterest

And I don't remember the last time I got my hair cut, but I want to experiment more with my new curling iron.

Oxford, Day 7: Brighton Fashion Week

After today, I could go back to the United States right now, because the visit to Brighton has already made my time here so special. I did not expect to become so enchanted or so amazed.

I wanted to go to Brighton for three reasons:

Reason #1: It was a free opportunity to see a place much different from Oxford or London.

Brighton is located on the coast, which is roughly a two hours from Oxford, three hours from London. King George IV's Royal Pavilion in the downtown center is known for its decadent Oriental style and definitely worth seeing just as much as Big Ben. I did not go inside the Royal Pavilion, but I took pictures of its exterior from the street. Instead taking that tour, I went to the "Fashion and the Flag" exhibit at the Brighton Museum, which celebrates the Jubilee by reflecting on how fashion designers created pieces that were inspired by the country's flag, the Union Jack.

The Royal Pavilion

King George IV

Brighton Museum and Gallery

"Fashion and the Flag" exhibit

Reason #2: I have always wanted to go to Coney Island...

Not only did the Brighton Pier resemble Coney Island, but the town itself was a combination of San Francisco and Newport. Seeing the old amusement park rising out of the coast and the pebble beach was truly magical. There is an infinite number of booths, each with different carnival games and stuffed animal prizes. The arcades are filled with bright lights, video games, and children's laughter. Walking on the Brighton Pier, you cannot help but feel like a kid again.

FISH PEDICURE?!

RedRoaster Coffee House

Cheddar and Tomato sandwich with Brown bread 

 Reason #3: Today was the first day of the Ready to Wear collections for Brighton Fashion Week.

That's right. Brighton Fashion Week 2012 started Wednesday May 31st and will end tomorrow, June 3rd.
Even though there were some big names in the show--Urban Outfitters and French Connection--some labels were smaller and local to the Brighton area. In addition to the fashion shows and boutique stalls, there were several speakers. Charlie Tuesday Gates, a former taxidermist, makes beautiful fascinators and headpieces and discussed how taxidermy directed her to fashion. Perry Curties, editor-in-chief of photography 125 Magazine, talked about the importance of understanding photography through changing media landscapes and how to take the right steps to become a successful photographer. There were complimentary issues of 125 Magazine in the audience.

British Fashion Week 2012 at Brighton Dome (adjoined to the Brighton Museum and Gallery)

Boutique stalls

WALTERWORKs hats and fascinators

Oh My Honey! fifties style dresses

This one was my favorite--most of the fabrics are locally sourced around Brighton, but I was told this print fabric is imported from Hawaii.

Urban Outfitters

Ailsa

French Connection

 

TRAMP

Warehouse

Charlie Tuesday Gates of Mind Like Magpie

Editor in Chief of 125 Magazine Perry Curties 

Curties showcasing his portfolio during the presentation

I did take a ton of pictures, many more than are shown--think hundreds of photos more. I photographed almost every outfit during each fashion show, as well as took some black and whites of Brighton Pier.

I had to pay 2 pounds to sit in this chair...

but it was worth it