When we arrived, we were right in the middle of SXSW happenings. As much as I would have loved to attend some of the fashion events, I didn’t have the time after the job search. On that note, things are going well and I’m happy to report that I found a job! In general, I’m just trying to find my place and settle into a new routine. You may have to excuse me while I find my rhythm and figure out where I’m headed with this blog in terms of content and posting frequency.  I hope all has been well with you! I’ve missed everyone!

Then I started thinking about high school and when my grandma used to take me shopping. We always found the cutest Lacoste sneakers together! I figured it was time to revisit my old favorites and they didn’t disappoint.

Andover 13 Sneaker (As seen above): Wouldn’t these be adorable with some jean capris and a cute white button-down shirt? They totally have the whole 1950′s vibe going on!

Vallareta Shoe: These are adorable. Red has been my color as of late, so I love the bold simplicity of these.

Vallejo Leather: Last but not least, I like these for a nice simple look. They’re easy, no-fuss, and a great basic to own.

What’s your sneaker style?

Luckily they’re priced just right so I don’t feel so bad about treating myself. Here are some of my favorites!

Addison Faux Alligator Bag (As pictured on top): This is definitely your go-to black bag. It’s structured enough to be formal, but trendy enough to be worn more casually.

Structured Cross Body Bag by Missco: I love the color and texture of this one. The hardware also makes it a little funky and different!

Emily Patent Clutch by Melie Bianco: This one is so chic and perfect for when you need to keep things a little more tailored. I love the geometric pattern and the delicate gold chain!

Which one is your favorite?

Bvlgari Eau Parfumée Au Thé Blanc Soap: I love this soap. It’s a luxe scent and extremely calming. I’m always nervous to try bar soaps, but this one is truly moisturizing.

Da Vinci Cosmetics Shimmer Powder: I got this in gold and love it! It’s the perfect amount of shimmer; not too distracting, but a great highlighter. It also stays well, which is a huge positive instead of worrying about falling powder ruining your look or getting in your eyes.

Lisi Eye Definition Cream Eyeliner: I generally have major beef with eyeliners because they smudge easily. This one was different though. I wore it all day and I didn’t encounter any smearing and gliding.

Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Hydro Gel Mask: I was most curious about this product and used it first. I’m always interested about weird ingredients in beauty products and this was definitely a new one for me! After a two day journey on the road, this was a Godsend. My face felt firm, moisturized, and generally refreshed. The only downside is that it was so messy! Then again, what mask isn’t? And the best part is that it’s only $6 per mask!

Nail Rock Nail Wraps: I received these in a fun gold and black print. Application was easy and they were definitely a statement-maker. The only issue is that I had some peeling around the edges on the second and third day. I think I’m more than a little rough on my nails!

Do you subscribe to Glossybox?

To help celebrate our anniversary, we choose our favorite wedding photo to Aluminyze. Husband has always wanted an aluminum photo, so it’s the perfect gift to help decorate our new home in Austin. I was a little nervous about how it would turn out with all of the customization options, but when it arrived, we couldn’t be happier. (Just so you know, we went for the 11″x17″ with in a glossy white finish.) It’s sturdy but lightweight and has beautiful detailing and exquisite coloring. I would highly recommend going for an even larger size if you really want a strong statement piece.

Disclaimer: Product was provided c/o Aluminyze. All opinions are of my own and based solely on the product experience. 

Happy anniversary, Husband!

As you know, Husband and I will be making the move down to Austin as of this week! It’s terribly exciting, but as you can expect, very stressful. For the next few weeks, I’ll be putting the breaks on Black + Blonde One to give myself time to readjust, find a job, and get our new home in order.

Feel free to reach out on Twitter or email (blackandblondeone at gmail.com)! I’ll most likely be doing lots of tweeting on our 28+ hour journey!

Tesa Johnson

6th Sense Studio

6th Sense Studio

Andressa Leão

Adolfo Sanchez

Adolfo Sanchez

Adolfo Sanchez

Adolfo Sanchez

Samantha Cole London

Dany Tabet

Dany Tabet

Dany Tabet

Dany Tabet

Overall, I saw a lot of baroque influence and a lot of skin. It looks like black and white will continue to be a strong force into fall and exaggerated silhouettes will red carpets. Oh yes, and don’t forget about the high slits because they aren’t going anywhere! You will also be seeing quite a bit of the graphic prints, even though I didn’t feature many of those looks.

What was your favorite collection?

1. My husband’s revenge for me wearing too much red lipstick.

2. Minnie and Mickey pancakes. I am spoiled.

3. My surprise raw amethyst. I love natural minerals, so this was one of the best presents ever! I love how the photo really captured all of the intricate details.

4. A surprise mocktail from the Aussie bartender at Top of the Standard, where I got to meet the Poshmark ladies!

5. A sleepy puppy is a cute puppy.

6. The only way I stay coordinated. My Brittany Fuson planner!

7. The best deal of the season! My leopard Donald J. Pliner boots I scored for $60 at Nordstrom Rack.

Disclosure: Content and/or other value provided by our partner, HTC. 

What’s been your favorite moment for the past couple of months?

This was the show I was most disappointed to miss. I’m a huge fan of high impact minimalism, which ØDD has perfected. It’s a bit androgynous, simple in color scheme, and relies on draping and geometrics to create an unparalleled style. It’s a mix between Helmut Lang, Rick Owens, and Oak NYC. It’s edgy downtown cool without trying too hard. These are the type of clothes that I wish my closet was filled with. It’s easy wear, low maintenance pieces but with a giant style reward.

The name of this presentation was “People with Weapons” and you can definitely see why. With the use of strong accessories, each style has a bit of a warrior appeal. Add in the bold graphics and hard leathers, you have styles mirroring a fashionable gladiator or a Roman conqueror in his dramatic toga. Overall, I think this collection was a knock-out and one I will continue to keep my eye on.

What did you think of the collection?