Natalya's Closet

I like my life calm and my outfits loud

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer: thrifted / Tank: Gap outlet / Jeans: Forever 21 / Shoes: thrifted Sam Edelman's

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Natalya

Short skirt | Long Jacket

2012-02-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

(please excuse the trash in the corner of the pics! Haha, gotta love awkward photo locations!)

Blazer: H&M / Top & skirt: thrift store / Shoes: Born Crown

This outfit reminds me of the lyrics in the song by Cake that's popular right now - hence my title. I'm just happy the weather here is warm enough for me to start wearing sandals and bare legs!

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Natalya

A few of my favorite thrift finds

2012-02-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket, top & jeans: Goodwill / Shoes: Bandolino (hand-me-down)

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Natalya

A touch of paisley

2012-02-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer: Goodwill / Dress: H&M / Tights & shoes: Target

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Natalya

Working woman

2012-02-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer & top: Goodwill / Skirt: Forever 21 / Tights: Hue / Shoes: Gabor

This is how I do "business casual" :).

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Natalya

Mad for plaid

2012-01-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Sunglasses: shop in downtown Toronto / Jacket: Goodwill / Top: H&M / Jeans & belt: Target / Boots: Betsey Johnson

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Natalya

Hair chalking fun

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Kerri and I were so excited to try the hair chalking trend that's hot right now, especially after reading this article. So last night we picked up some soft pastel chalk from Joann's Fabrics and ran to Kerri's house and started chalking! It was so much fun and the best part was getting to feel like teenagers again! I hope you like the photos!!

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Natalya

A little help from my friend :)

2012-01-27T15:00:00.000-08:00

Sweater: Caslon (hand-me-down) / Tank: Heavenly Couture / Skirt: Goodwill / Shoes: Crossroads Trading Co. / Purse: Jones New York (gift)

I want to give a HUGE thank you to my friend Kerri for snapping some awesome photos for my blog posts lately! As you probably can see, she's been taking photos for me about every other day - hence the reason yesterday's photos were crappy and taken by me, and today's are awesome and were taken by her. So thank you Kerri for making my blog more beautiful!! :)

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Natalya

Blue & black continued

2012-01-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

Sweater blazer: Nordstrom Rack / Top: Goodwill / Belt & jeans: Target / Sandals: Impo / Purse: gift

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Natalya

Blue & black pattern mixing

2012-01-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer & top: Goodwill / Skirt: Forever 21 / Tights: Hue / Shoes: Gabor

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Natalya

Back to school

2012-01-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

Scarf: gift / Jacket & pants: Goodwill / Top: Walmart / Boots: Mervyns

Today is the first day of the semester and I'm feeling optimistic! :)

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Natalya

Rainy day

2012-01-23T12:30:00.000-08:00

Coat: Elie Tahari (gift) / Jacket: thrift store / Dress: Madison Bleu / Tights: Hue /
Shoes: Target

Fashion school update: My second semester as a fashion student starts this week; my first class is tomorrow morning. If all goes well, this should be my last semester of non fashion related prerequisites, (I'm keeping my fingers crossed)! So my fashion school updates will probably be minimal until then, but I'll still be posting my outfits and fashion related experiences :).

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Natalya

Detail oriented

2012-01-17T16:48:00.000-08:00

Blazer: Goodwill / Headband: Target / Top: Castro / Skirt & tights: Forever 21 / Purse: Jones New York (gift) / Boots: Mudd

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Natalya

Sweet Disposition

2012-01-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket & Top: Goodwill / Bracelet: gift / Skirt: Old Navy / Tights: Target / Shoes: Bandolino

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Natalya

Railroad crossing

2012-01-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

On me: Jacket: Goodwill / dress: Buffalo Exchange / Tights: Target / Shoes: Gabor

On Kerri: Jacket: Gap / Top, Skirt & Shoes: H&M / Tights: Target

Kerri and I decided to do an impromptu photo shoot at the railroad tracks near work on our lunch break today. It was so much fun prancing around and feeling awkward as cars drove by and people stared.
Anyways, I've worn this dress a million times and I'm sure you're all sick of it, but Kerri looked so chic and the railroad tracks made the perfect backdrop!

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Natalya

Two-toned

2012-01-10T13:30:00.000-08:00

Dress: Heavenly Couture / Purse: gift / Shoes: Coach

I've felt creatively blocked the last few weeks, which is why I haven't posted. I needed a break in order to clear my head. Style blogging seems so shallow to me sometimes. My life is multidimensional and there is so much more to me than simply being a style blogger. Yet other times I can't wait to throw on an outfit and snap pics of it, and it makes me feel great to share my creation.

So why do I blog? Hopefully my style will inspire others to dress in a way that makes them feel beautiful, and maybe sharing how I'm chasing my dream of being a fashion designer will inspire others as well.

XOXO,

Natalya

Asymmetrical shoulder bling

2011-12-28T10:45:00.000-08:00

Blazer: H&M / Top: Thrift store / Cargo pants: Target / Boots: Mervyn's

XOXO,

Natalya

While the rest of the world is wearing winter coats...

2011-12-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

...Southern California seems to be stuck in an eternal Summer. Bring out the T-shirts!

Top, shoes & jeans: thrift store / Scarf worn as headband: gift

I picked up this top and these flared jeans, as well as two other tops this weekend at my local thrift store. You know, the store I rave about being so great because everything is arranged by color :). Anyways, I hope everyone had a great fun filled Holiday weekend!

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Natalya

Red jeans

2011-12-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer & jeans: thrift store / Cami: Gap / Heels: Target

I've been wanting a pair of red jeans for months now. But because of my limited student budget, I've been buying most of my clothes at thrift stores. My favorite thrift store in my area organizes all items by color which makes it so easy to find what I want. I love it!

So for about 6 months I've checked the red pants section hoping for some in my size. Unfortunately, every time I've checked they seem to have them in every size but my own. And finally last week they had my size! My sister was with me and she was laughing about how ecstatic I was. It's the simple things in life... :)

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Natalya

And the winner of my Shabby Apple necklace giveaway is...

2011-12-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Drumroll please........

Congratulations @ kerri! I'll be emailing you with the details shortly!

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Natalya

Video: My interview with the fashion designer Marina Rahlin of Popavina

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

Hey readers,

I am BEYOND excited about this video! I had the privilege of getting to interview fashion designer Marina Rahlin of Popavina! She is a talented L.A. designer who was gracious enough to let me interview her about her experiences as a designer. I feel like such a lucky girl and BELIEVE ME seeing her clothing up close made me feel like a kid in a candy store!

Enjoy the video!

A VERY special thanks to:

Marina Rahlin

Will Jackson

Kerri Johnson

Without you three this video would not have been possible!!

Popavina's website: www.popavina.com

Popavina's blog: www.popamoda.blogspot.com

XOXO,

Natalya

Rockin' shoulder pads

2011-12-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

Blazer: thrift store / Top & jeans: Target / Boots: Nordstrom

Fashion School Update: Today I have my last two "real" classes of the semester. Finals begin next week. Translation: I'll be under a rock studying for the next three days.

Wish me luck!

Don't forget to enter my Shabby Apple giveaway!

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Natalya

Retro

2011-12-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

Top & skirt: thrift store / Shoes: Coach

Fashion school update: I cannot believe I have only a week and a half left in my first semester of my fashion design program! It feels like just yesterday I was getting ready for my first day of school. Luckily I was able to get the classes I need for next semester so I can breath easy. I have to say though, I'm looking forward to my 5 week break from school. Having time for relaxation sounds mighty appealing!

Don't forget to enter my Shabby Apple giveaway!

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Natalya

A little glitz

2011-12-06T13:30:00.000-08:00

Sunglasses: small shop in downtown Toronto / Blazer & top: H&M / Scarf (worn as a belt): gift / Jeans: Marshall's / Boots: Nordstrom

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Natalya

My studying-for-finals look

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hoodie: Fashion Avenue / Top: campus store / Jeans: thrift store / Boots: Betsy Johnson

The only time you'll see me wear a hoodie is during finals. I thought I'd show you that I'm not always dressed nicely, especially during the stress of finals week. But I make sure to jazz up my finals week outfits by adding things like snazzy boots and colored jeans. Oh and I comb my hair too :).

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Natalya

My Sunday best

2011-12-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

Dress: H&M / Cami: Styles for Less / Belt & tights: Target / Shoes: Gabor

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Natalya

New shoes!

2011-12-03T11:00:00.000-08:00

Aren't my new Gabor mary jane's purdy :)? I love their marbly red color and the grommet's are pretty cool too. I can't wait to wear them!

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Natalya

Giveaway: win this Shabby Apple necklace!

2011-12-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Hey lovely readers!

I've partnered with vintage inspired clothing boutique Shabby Apple to give one lucky reader of mine this Key to Wonderland necklace! Unfortunately, this giveaway is open to U.S. readers only.

To enter the giveaway:

1. Leave a comment below including your email address
2. Like Shabby Apple of Facebook
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect

4. Like Natalya's Closet on Facebook

Good luck! May the best woman win! I'll announce the winner in a post in 2 weeks!

XOXO,

Natalya

Snazzy

2011-12-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer: H&M / Dress: Nordstom Rack / Tights: Forever 21 / Shoes: Coach

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Natalya

Snowflakes

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket: H&M / Top: thrift store / Jeans: Target / Boots: Mervyn's

Happy December 1st everyone! I thought I'd bring out my favorite snowflakes boots in celebration :).

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Natalya

And the winner of my $100 Shopbop giveaway is...

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Drum roll please....

The winner is entry #1!

I love that I used a random number generator, and it picked #1!

So congratulations to MyBeadifulLife!! (I'll be emailing you shortly with the details).

XOXO,

Natalya

Today's the last day to enter my $100 Shopbop giveaway!

2011-11-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

Today's the last day to enter my $100 Shopbop giveaway!

I'll announce the winner in a post tomorrow!

Click here to enter now!

Berry & Leopard

2011-11-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

Blazer & Shoes: Target / Sweater: Nordstrom Rack / Leopard dress: T.J. Maxx /
Leaf bracelet: vintage

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Natalya

A Summery November

2011-11-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Top & vest: H&M / Jeans: Target / Boots: Mudd

The weather has been in the 80's here in Southern California which has made me put my Fall wardrobe on hold, and bring back out my summer clothing. It's so beautiful here, I definitely can't complain about sunny skies!

On another note, I am so excited because yesterday my videographer friends help me film an interview (I told you about here) with an L.A. fashion designer I admire. It should be edited and ready for me to post in a week or two - I can't wait to share it with you!

Don't forget you have two more days to enter my $100 Shopbop giveaway!

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Natalya

Pink | White | Black

2011-11-26T18:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Thirft store / Dress: Madison Bleu / Shoes: Impo

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Natalya

Simplify

2011-11-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer: H&M / Sweater: Styles for Less / Jeans: Old Navy / Shoes: Gabor

This holiday has helped me to slow down and reflect. My mind is now set on simplifying my life: what I eat, how I live, and making time for enjoyment and fun. It feels really good to just relax and BREATHE. I've been reading a great book entitled "Skinny Bitch", which despite the provoking title, is focused on being kind to our bodies and to nature. I highly recommend it!

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Natalya

Thanksgiving day

2011-11-24T23:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket & skirt: thrift store / Tank: Gap / Necklace: vintage / Tights: Target / Boots: Mudd

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Natalya

My first video post!

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

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Natalya

Bright red

2011-11-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer, tank & shoes: thrift store / Skirt: Old Navy / Tights: Walmart

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Natalya

My winter lust list from White House Black Market

2011-11-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

Items above, clockwise: Pailette Cardigan $148, Sequined skirt, $168, Stripe layered skirt, $128, Gold sequined box clutch, $48, Allover sparkle tank $78, Ruby velvet jacket $128

Items above, left to right: Velvet sleek boot pant, $88, Gold sequin pump , $88, Velvet mini skirt $78

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Natalya

Why you should join FashionsBlogs.com

2011-11-18T14:00:00.000-08:00

Hey readers,

I wanted to talk to you about a cool site, www.fashionsblogs.com, "where fashion bloggers become famous!" The site is owned and operated by a fashion classmate of mine. He founded the company when he realized how hard it is for fashion bloggers to get noticed. The site is a "fashion specific blogging platform that allows fashion bloggers to share their posts, network and create a sense of community." The site also has fun features like MakeMeFamous, which gives fashion bloggers major exposure! Joining is free, and it's a simple registration process.

I met the owner of the site a few weeks ago in a non-fashion-related prerequisite class we're taking together. It was by chance that I noticed his email address involved the words "fashions blogs" when he sent out an email about a class project. After I checked out his website by googling his email address (yes, I'm quite the detective), I decided to approach him and inquire about his site. I always love meeting new people in the fashion industry, and of course anything fashion-related gets me all giddy like a little kid. So I joined www.fashionsblogs.com this week and am excited about being a part of the community! I hope you join the community too and take advantage of this awesome fashion blogger site!

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Natalya

Giveaway: Just in time for the holidays win $100 to Shopbop! Use it to load up on threads from top designers like Theory clothing!

2011-11-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hello lovely readers,

I have partnered AGAIN with Shopbop to give one lucky reader of mine $100 toward Shopbop.com. I'm so excited about this!

As you probably know, Shopbop.com is a leading online retailer which sells women's designer clothing and accessories. They feature amazing apparel like Theory clothing, which boasts beautifully tailored Theory skirts. Also, the current collection of Theory pants at Shopbop is simply perfect for loading up on key pieces to create your winter and holiday wardrobe! The $100 gift certificate can be applied to sale items too, so make sure to browse items on sale at Shopbop for even bigger discounts!

To enter the giveaway, simply:

1. Leave a comment below. (Make sure you leave me an email address where I can contact you if you win!)
2. Follow me on Google Friend Connect
3. Follow me on Twitter or Facebook!

The contest starts today and will run for two weeks. After that I'll announce the winner and email the winner the details! Good luck and let the contest begin!

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Natalya

Cuffed and ready to go

2011-11-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

Necklace: Walmart / Blazer: thrift store /Top: Nordstrom Rack / Jeans: Target / Shoes: Gabor

Eek! Exciting news! I've partnered with Shopbop.com to do another $100 giveaway for a lucky reader of mine! I'll post all the giveaway details tomorrow at 8am PST! Stay tuned!

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Natalya

Building relationships

2011-11-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

Blazer: thrift store / Top: TJ Maxx / Jeans: Forever 21 / Boots: Nordstrom

Fashion School Update: Now that I have only 4 weeks left in the semester, I have final projects on the brain! My professor had a very helpful talk with us in class last night, about the importance of building relationships with people in the fashion industry as opposed to just "networking". She stressed the importance of asking "what can I do for you?" as opposed to asking "what can you do for me"? I love this philosophy.

Her talk was inspirational and helpful in clarifying exactly how to go about meeting people in our industry. Our final project in this particular class is to interview an industry professional who has a job similar to what we want to have in the future. We get to ask them how they went about getting to where they are today, what their daily duties are like, etc. She said to shoot for the stars and really try and get a hold of someone who you have been wanting to meet; someone great. Her talk put a fire under me and I've been doing research to find a really amazing designer to talk to. I can't wait to sit down with this person and hear their story and words of wisdom!

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Natalya

Navy + White Nails

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

I was playing around with my nail polish tonight and came up with this look. I hope you like it!

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Natalya

Ladylike black n' white

2011-11-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

Jacket: thrift store / Dress: Styles for Less / Tights & shoes: Target

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Natalya

RED

2011-11-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

Blazer: thrift store / Top: Nordstrom Rack / Jeans: Target / Boots: Betsey Johnson

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Natalya

In the dark

2011-11-08T17:30:00.000-08:00

Blazer: thrift store / Dress: TJ Maxx / Tights: Forever 21 / Shoes: Target

Daylight savings time put a damper on my photos today. In the past few months I was able to take photos at 5pm and there was still daylight. Today it was already dark by 5pm. So the quality of photos isn't great, but you get the jist of my outfit :).

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Natalya

Purple reign

2011-11-07T11:00:00.000-08:00

Coat, Dress & Leggings: H&M / Scarf: Walmart / Boots: Betsey Johnson

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Natalya

My 10 winter wardrobe staples

2011-11-06T09:30:00.000-08:00

1. A medley of blazers

2. An assortment of long-sleeved tops and pullover sweaters

3. Warm dresses

4 & 5. Scarves & gloves in an array of colors

6. A large selection of skinny jeans

7. Skirts in fun patterns

8. Tights in EVERY color, pattern and texture

9. Boots, boots & more boots!

10. Chunky heels & wedges perfect for wearing with tights

Above are my must-have's for winter, photographed from my wardrobe. Please note, I live in Southern California. Hence, the lack of warm coats!

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Natalya

Black + Blue

2011-11-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

Top & Jeans: thrift store / Shoes: Born / Clutch: Forever 21

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Natalya

Balance

2011-11-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

Blazer: H&M / Scarf: Grandma / Tank: Styles for Less / Skirt: thrift store / Heels: Target
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Natalya

School girl style - with an edge

2011-11-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Jacket & skirt: thrift store / Tank: Gap / Tights: Target / Boots: Famous Footwear

I was so excited to rock this "school girl" Loft brand mini skirt today. It was one of my thrift store finds last week. I love dressing for fall; layering makes me happy :).

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Natalya

Halloween

2011-10-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

This photo is from last night, which was Halloween party #1. I am currently resting up for tonight - Halloween party #2. I bought my costume at Target, and according to the label, I was a "Victory Goddess" :). My friend dressed as a chic gypsy :).

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Natalya

I was hoping she'd win!

2011-10-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

A HUGE congrats to Project Runway winner Anya Ayoung-Chee!! Last night was the season 9 finale and as Tim Gunn said, any of the four contestants left could have won. The competition was that close. I watched the entire season, and though I'm happy for Anya, (I really wanted her to win), I'm bummed there won't be a new episode waiting for me in my DVR every week now...sigh. I watched each episode about 2 or 3 times, just so I wouldn't miss anything; I know, obsessive right? I will be tuning into Project Accessory though, which starts now and should be equally cool.

A few of my favorite's from Anya's runway collection:

Did you watch this season's Project Runway? I think my favorite episode was when the contestants had to make a garment out of pet store supplies!

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Natalya

Fun Fall Textures

2011-10-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

Blazer: one of my new thrift finds :) / Scarf & Dress: H&M / Tights: Target / Boots: Betsey Johnson at Macy's

Now that the weather has begun to change and there is a chill in the air, all the fun textures of fall can come out to play! I may have gone a bit overboard here in my excitement, but as they say "Go big, or go home!"

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Natalya

1 scarf, 2 ways

2011-10-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

WAY#1 - The headscarf:

WAY #2 - The necktie:

Top: vintage / Scarf: gift from Grandma / Pants: H&M / Shoes: hand-me-down

There are so many creative ways to wear scarves this season. Above are two of my favorites. What are you favorite ways to rock your scarves?

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Natalya

Sporadic thrifting

2011-10-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

Jacket & skirt: thrift store / Tank: Styles for Less / Leggings: Forever21 / Boots: Nordstrom clearance

I stopped by my local Goodwill on a whim this afternoon and came out with the jacket and skirt I'm wearing here, and another jacket, top and two more skirts! The whole shopping trip took only 25 minutes. I consider that a successful thrift store trip!

Fashion School Update: "Everyday I'm shufflin..."

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Natalya

Welcoming Fall

2011-10-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Blazer: thrifted / Top, Scarf & Jeans: Target / Boots: Betsey Johnson

Fashion School Update: Sorry my posts have been less regular as of late, things have been so hectic. Trying to balance work, school and a social life has been a challenge. I am in my ninth week of the semester, which is just over the halfway mark. And I need to register for next semester's classes shortly. Unfortunately there is nothing exciting to report currently. I won't really be getting into real fashion design classes until I finish these prerequisites I'm currently taking. I'm kinda bummed about all the non-design classes I still have to take, but that's just the way it is.

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Natalya

My favorite LBD

2011-10-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dress: TJ Maxx / Sandals: DSW / Sunglasses: store in downtown Toronto / Purse: hand-me-down from Mom

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Natalya

Baby blues

2011-10-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

Blazer: thrift store / Dress: outdoor market in Israel / Shoes: Winners in Toronto

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Natalya

70'S Chic

2011-10-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Blazer: Target / Scarf: Grandma's / Tank: Gap / Jeans: Old Navy / Sandals: DSW

Fashion School Update: There's an opportunity to study abroad in Paris or London next year and it sounds amazing! Only problem is it costs about $15,000. Here's to hoping for a windfall...

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Natalya

American girl

2011-10-11T14:30:00.000-07:00

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Natalya

Back from a time of reflection

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

(Above: my sidekick! AKA my sewing kit)

Fashion School Update: I don't like for things in my life to stagnate and remain routine for very long - I like steady upward progress. Since my classes started 7 weeks ago, I have been going through a very challenging time. I had worked so hard just to get to the point where I could enter into the fashion design program at my school, constantly keeping in mind my dream of becoming a fashion designer. I started the semester with great enthusiasm and excitement. During these past 7 weeks I have been tripping on many of the small and difficult steps on my journey toward that aim. Mainly, if I let others affect my self-esteem negatively I go downhill very fast. I know that I can only rely on myself to keep my confidence up. I'm looking forward to going to bed and hopefully waking up refreshed and inspired.

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Natalya

September comes to a close...

2011-09-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Blazer & top: Target / Skirt: hand-me-down / Shoes: Sam Edelman via thrift store

Fashion School Update: While I am glad it's Friday, I am a little apprehensive about starting the weekend because I am kicking it off with an all-night Library session tonight. My three fashion projects I told you about are all due Monday so I will be meeting with my group members all weekend to finish up. I can't wait to finish and kick-ass in our presentations though!

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Natalya

Getting from point A to point B

2011-09-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

Blazer: H&M / Dress: Buffalo Exchange / Scarf: Grandma's / Shoes: Guess via DSW

Fashion School Update: Today I went to the Career Center on campus to see if they could shed any light on my current dilemma: fitting an internship into my packed schedule. What the counselor told me was rather simple; "Get an internship on the weekend". What a concept. Though I had briefly pondered that idea before, it was nice to have it confirmed. It would definitely mean practicing even better time-management skills on my part, and even less of a social life, but it is doable. So I am going to start searching for possible internships that would require me to work on weekends. Wish me luck!

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Natalya

Urban Safari

2011-09-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

ref="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279986@N05/6186193060/" title="100_0146 by natalyascloset, on Flickr">

Top: Hand-me-down / Cami: Styles for Less / Skirt: Thrift store / Tights & shoes: Target

Fashion School Update: I have three fashion projects that I am working on which are due next week. One of the projects requires me to report on what jean trends are currently popular for women. Based on the information I gather, (by using a tally sheet and observing people on campus), I am then required to project what trends will continue to grow and which will fizzle out.

Another of the fashion projects I'm working on is a paper about French fashion over several centuries, and the third is a presentation where I am pretending to be a fashion buyer presenting a board to a company about which trends and pieces I think they should buy for the upcoming season.

All fun stuff! Man, I love my fashion classes!

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Natalya

Rockin' my mini

2011-09-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Blazer: Arte boutique / Camisole: hand-me-down / Skirt: Old Navy / Tights: Target / Shoes: Born

I am thrilled that the weather has started to change and it is beginning to feel like Fall. This means that I can wear tights again! It's the little things in life that matter :). What Fall pieces are you excited to wear??

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Natalya

My first love

2011-09-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

My first love was art; specifically drawing and painting. Below are some of the paintings & drawings I made as a preteen and teen.

Yes, making clothes is a passion of mine, but it spurred from a much greater one; drawing and painting. I had a love for art from a very young age. From the first time I picked up a paint brush I knew it was going to be a long term love affair. For me art is a meditative experience, and many times served as an escape from the more difficult parts of my childhood. I feel I have many talents, as we all do, but for me art has always been a safe haven where I feel I am at my best. These are some of my favorite drawings and paintings I made as a kid and as a teenager.

I hope you enjoyed them!

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Natalya

Tailored

2011-09-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

5/" title="1 by natalyascloset, on Flickr">

What I wore: Blazer & Top: thrift store / Jean & Shoes: Target

Fashion School Update: I have this semester and next to get through my non fashion-related class which are required for my major. After that it will be all advanced sewing techniques, draping, pattern making, etc. So I can't wait until I am through with these two semesters so I can focus on what I love, making clothes!

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Natalya

Manic Monday

2011-09-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Blazer: H&M / Tank: thrift store / Jeans: Marshall's / Boots: Betsey Johnson via Macy's

Fashion School Update: Week #4 started today and I feel like I'm a hamster running on a wheel and not getting anywhere. In my free time I have been focusing on studying for Macro-economics, my most challenging of my 4 classes, and I'm behind in the other 3 as a result. I know, it's all about better time management, right?

On a better note, we had a great meeting with the career center this morning in my Intro to the Fashion Industry class. There are so many great connections between my school and professionals in the fashion industry. Workshops, internship and job opportunities, you name it. My dilemma is finding time to take advantage of those, especially the internships. My job and classes are taking a front seat, so I'll have to do some brainstorming about how to fit one in. I welcome any advice!

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Natalya

Some things never change

2011-09-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Some things never change, like my love for pink and purple. I have been looking for a chic new backpack to make school a tad more fun. Overheard from a teen by the backpack section when I was picking this out at Kohl's yesterday: "no one uses a backpack after the 6th grade, come on". Little does she know all the cool people are doing it :).

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Natalya

I just can't get enough

2011-09-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

I just can't get enough of my (new to me) red blazer!

Blazer & top: thrift store / Clutch: Forever 21 / Jeans: Marshalls / Boots: Macy's

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Natalya

Re-prioritizing

2011-09-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

Photos by me

Top: thrifted / Cami: Styles for Less / Jeans: Old Navy / Sandals: Target

Fashion School Update: As you may have guessed from the title, I am struggling with my priorities right now. I know that school should be coming first but I have allowed my job and my friends to take a front seat. Now that I am 3 weeks in to the semester and am feeling the strain of being behind in my studying, it is time for some re-prioritizing. So I am grudgingly writing out a studying schedule so that I can make a change. What are your priorities and what are your strategies for putting them first?

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XOXO,

Natalya

Comfort clothes

2011-09-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Coat: Forever 21 / Tank: Thrifted / Pants: Target / Shoes: Impo via DSW

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Natalya

I would love to have been a fly on the wall at Jenny Packham

2011-09-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

All photos are from www.style.com

Each dress in Jenny Packham's Spring 2012 RTW show is absolutely stunning, and yet each is more beautiful than the last. How is that possible? Above are my favorites in her collection. I want to wear every single gown!

To see the entire show click here

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Natalya

Aqua pop

2011-09-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Blazer & tank top: Target / Jeans: thrifted / Sandals: Impo via DSW

Fashion School Update: This morning in my Intro to the Fashion Industry class we watched a video from 1988 when Marc Jacobs was only age 25 and putting on his first big fashion show. He had just gone bankrupt a few years before, (can you imagine going through bankruptcy in your early 20's??), and was working his way back up after his fall. He was so nervous in the video and sweating bullets saying he hoped he would make it in the industry. It was so encouraging to watch and think about what a fashion mogul he is today. It gave me hope that I can make it too :).

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Natalya

Charlotte Ronson Spring 2012 RTW

2011-09-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

Photos are from www.style.com

I love Charlotte Ronson's whole Spring 2012 collection. Above are just a few of my favorites from her show. This last outfit which Charlotte is wearing, is one of my favorites!

To see the whole collection, click here!

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Natalya

Lazy afternoon

2011-09-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Tops: hand-me-downs / Jeans: thrifted / Sandals: Impo via DSW

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Natalya

Working girl

2011-09-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Blazer: thrifted / Tank: Hand-me-down / Jeans: Target / Shoes: Coach via DSW

It's official! I'm in love! With this blazer that is...
I found it for a mere $4 at a thrift store last weekend! What a steel!

Fashion School Update: Week #2 comes to a close.

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Natalya

My favorites from NYFW today

2011-09-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

BCBG Max Azria

Nicholas K

Cushnie et Ochs

Kimberly Ovitz

Photos from www.style.com

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Natalya

Lounging

2011-09-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Tank: Gap outlet / Skirt: thrifted (new to me!) / Wedges: Guess via DSW

I love these photos, except the ones where my bra strap is exposed. Sigh... oh well, lol.

Fashion School Update: Nothing new to report. Just enjoying week #2! :)

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Natalya

Mornings In the Garden

2011-09-06T14:30:00.000-07:00

Top: Winners in Toronto / Jeans: Target / Sandals: Impo via DSW

I have been spending about 3 minutes each morning snapping photos in the garden. It makes me think - wouldn't it be nice to spend all morning, every day, in the garden?? Sigh...one day :)

Fashion School Update: This morning I found out that while technically I need only 43.5 more units to graduate, according to my fashion design department I need 57. That wasn't the best news. In some happier news though, my professor gave me the email address of her former student who was on Project Runway. So I'm composing an email to her today :). Hopefully she will respond and share her experience with me since I want to try out.

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Natalya

Fall trend: A rainbow of colored denim

2011-09-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

Sports legging, $40
Current/Elliott stretchy skinny jeans, $100
J Brand patch jeans, $123
Replay skinny fit jeans, $59
Cheap Monday skinny fit jeans, $45
ASOS slim skinny jeans, $64
Forever21 skinny leg jeans, $23
ASOS orange jeans, $64
True Religion denim skinny jeans, $198
Juicy Couture embroidered jeans, $158
Juicy Couture embroidered jeans, $158
Guess skinny jeans, $98
Juicy Couture embroidered jeans, $158
Denim skinny jeans, $98
Cheap Monday faded jeans, $82

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Natalya

New additions to my closet

2011-09-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I stopped by a thrift store and got some new key pieces for my fall wardrobe :). A bright red blazer, a denim blazer, aqua colored skinny jeans and a navy & white pencil skirt. I can't wait to style them!

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Natalya

Wisely allocating my time

2011-09-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Tank: Walmart / Skirt: Hand-me-down / Sandals: Impo via DSW / Purse: Urban Outfitters

Fashion School Update: Now that school has started I cannot get away with half-assed time management. Damnit!! I have to carefully allocate my time among things that are priorities. Doesn't being an adult suck sometimes??!! So being that this is the first weekend of the semester I am acutely feeling the change. I do not have the luxury of watching TV for hours on the couch or perusing through clothing stores. Even as I'm writing this I am putting off studying I could be doing. So after writing a list of everything I wanted to accomplish this weekend and feeling overwhelmed I remembered the wise words of a mentor of mine: "Take breaks". Simple concept really. Example: study for half an hour, clean the bathroom, study for half an hour, eat lunch, study for half an hour, run an errand, and so on. And that's the only way I've successfully been able to allocate my time wisely while working and being in school. Otherwise, I start thinking of all the hours of studying I have to do and proceed to do a studying marathon, and then give up an hour into it. What are your strategies for juggling all your responsibilities? I'd love your input!

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Natalya

T.G.I.F.!!!

2011-09-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Jacket: Thrifted / Top: Target / Jeans: Forever 21 / Sandals: Impo via DSW

Fashion School Update: Thank God It's Friday! Well, week one of my fashion program is over! I am so happy that I've embarked on this adventure! This weekend will be full of sleeping in and studying for next week's classes.

Have a great weekend peeps!

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Natalya

Is it the weekend yet??

2011-09-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Blazer & tank: H&M / Jeans: Target / Shoes: Bass

Fashion School Update: It's only Thursday of the first week of classes and already I feel stressed! I'm starting to feel the pressure of taking four classes while working 30 hours a week. I can tell by these photos that I've been rushing around cause my hair is a frizzy mess! LOL. Oh well, this is a period of adjustment and it's necessary for me to get to where I want to be.

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Natalya

Making connections

2011-08-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Blazer: Target / Top: Winners in Toronto / Skirt: Forever 21 / Shoes: DSW

Fashion School Update: This morning in my Intro to the Fashion Industry class, our professor had us go around the room and share something about ourselves. Most students said something along the lines of "I like to sing" or "I like to cook". But I stood up and said "I'm going to try out for Project Runway!" I am so glad that I know I want to be a designer more than anything because my professor immediately responded, "I have a former student who was on Project Runway and got pretty far in the competition! Let me give you her email address and you can talk to her!" I'm definitely going to email this person and ask her for advice and the inside scoop!

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Natalya

Garment under construction... can you guess what it is??

2011-08-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am in the midst of making a very challenging, (well, for my skill level at least), garment! Above is a photo; a sneak peak of sorts. I plan to have it completed this week and then I'll wear it in an outfit post. Isn't the shiney grey-green fabric pretty?? Can you guess what the garment is?? Hint- that pinned area is a pocket...

Fashion School Update: This morning I had the other half of my classes (I'm taking a total of four this semester) and though they aren't fashion-related, they are still required for my major. The first class this morning was macro-economics and the second was family and consumer resource management. Though I'd love ALL my classes to be solely sewing, draping and designing, I know these two classes will be important to my knowledge of the business side of the fashion industry.

P.S.: I'm in love with my new school! Even though I keep getting lost going from one class to another, lol.

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Natalya

My first day of school!

2011-08-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

Photo above: My roommate was so sweet (and she's a morning person) so she insisted on taking a photo of me at 6:47am this morning before I went to school. I thought that was so thoughtful :). And it brought me back to being a kid on the first day of school! So nostalgic...

Fashion School Update: This day finally came! Today was my first day of classes at my new school! For those of you who are new to my blog, I've worked in finance for 7 years (and still do); and am going back to school to follow my dream of becoming a fashion designer. Since I have an A.A. degree, I transferred as a junior this semester and in 2 years and I will have my B.A. in Fashion Design. Yipee!

So I'm writing this post after a 16 hour day of non-stop school and work. I had very limited choices in regards to my class schedule, and even though I got classes I needed, unfortunately they aren't at the best times. My first class was at 8am and it's aptly titled Intro to the Fashion Industry :). It sounds like it's going to be an amazing semester!!

Anyways, after my first class I headed into work and put in 7 hours. And of course it was an insanely busy day at work. I left work at 5pm, somehow fed myself, and ended up in rush hour traffic trying to get to my second class which started at 7pm tonight. The class is about the psychology that goes into how we dress as individuals and as a society.

So, I have to say this first day was emotional, exciting and exhausting. Now I'm heading to bed and will probably be dreaming about fashion. Tomorrow I have my third and fourth classes, and can't wait to share more about my journey with you!

Good night!

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Natalya

Family Night

2011-08-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

I hung out with my mom and sister on Friday night :).

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Natalya

Indulging in some fake shopping

2011-08-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

All photos are from Madison Bleu

Don't get me wrong, being a student again is great, but what isn't great is the lack of funds that go along with it! I'm now working only part time since the semester is starting on Monday. So it's time to get really frugal. And I don't even want to discuss how much I just spent on textbooks! All you students out there can feel my pain!

So since I can't afford to buy any new clothes at the present time, (except for my $14.98 purchase yesterday), I was doing some fake shopping in the mindset of "if I had the money, I'd buy these!!". One of my favorite local boutiques (they only have two locations - both in O.C., Calif.) is Madison Bleu. These are some of their current garments I'm loving! Have you indulged in any fake shopping of your own recently??

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Natalya

Experimenting with my new camera

2011-08-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

Blazer: Target (new!) / Necklace: vintage (won in a giveaway) / Dress: Madison Bleu / Shoes: Guess via DSW (shop similar)

I broke my little Nikon point-and-shoot about 6 months ago when I was in a rush one morning because I didn't screw it on to the tripod correctly. That's what I get for rushing! So yesterday I finally bought another small camera. It's a Kodak M590 and this morning was my first test run with it. I'm not thrilled with the output. Though I only bought it to fill in the gaps when my photographer (who takes most of my photos) can't take them, like on the weekends. One day I'll be able to afford either a full time photographer or a nicer camera! But in the mean time this will have to do.

In other news, I bought this cute little blazer yesterday at Target and it was on clearance for $14.98!!! If you click the link to buy it above, it says it's still full-price, but if you go into a Target store, they should be on clearance. I know it will be a perfect Fall staple.

Fashion School Update: I start classes on Monday!

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Natalya

Orange you glad?

2011-08-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

Photos by Kerri

Top: Goodwill / Camisole: Styles For Less / Skirt: Forever 21 / Shoes: Coach via DSW

Fashion School Update: Just waiting for my textbooks to arrive :). I start classes on Monday and I found out that my friend who I met in last semester's dreaded Chemistry class will be in on of my fashion classes with me!

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Natalya