summer ghosting

I've never really been much of a fan of summer. Every time I have to go out in the sun, it has always been greeted with dread. So much dread.
In fact, the only time I really enjoy going out is when there's a torrential downpour.

Slightly lower temperatures allow for layering, and the rain usually calls for welly-wearing -- which is always a plus in my book!

However, I figured complaining about the heat (which is all I do, apparently) is no fun. "Summer", and therefore the freedom it brings, is almost at an end, and I realize, I haven't really done much summer frolicking!

So one day, Myra and I decided to finally embrace this damned season, put on swimsuits and head to the island. But of course, it poured that day, so we scavenged the St Lawrence market for statement accessories and communist paraphernalia instead.

When it cleared up later that day, we basked in the usually dreaded sun at the manmade beach down at Harbourfront, where the above instant photos were taken. The camera's default setting had the tendency to make me look like a ghost -- a summer ghost.

(would have been) summer staples

summer staples by garbledupwords featuring ray ban shades

With the passing of seasons, it's difficult to ignore wardrobe planning. I made this set in spring on the cusp of summer -- when it seemed like it was going to be 25 degrees every day. Hence, the long-sleeved Marc by Marc silk blouse. Unfortunately, things don't always turn out the way you imagine. I finally tried on said blouse after months of thinking about it, but the sizing was off. Something is always off.

I've looked for mariniere shorts similar to the above, but the search also turned out futile. As for the Chloé flats, I haven't quite committed to them. They are lovely, but I don't really need to have them. On the other hand, the Wang "Diego" bag is something I've coveted (secretly, at first) for months.

And now, it is mine -- eep!

Brontë afternoons

Lately, when at home, I've been donning this velvet dress that has quickly become a favourite and patent brogues on the feet. (Sometimes, when running errands to the store or the post, tights and a long cardigan are added -- odd combinations to a June outfit, no doubt.)

And with Wuthering Heights and the usual cuppa on hand to keep my annoyance of Heathcliffe in moderation.

What would Anna Karina/Franny Glass wear?

Odile (Bande à part)Schumacher lightweight cardigan, Lands End plaid skirt, Christian Louboutin velvet shoes, ASOS wide brim fedora hat, Pieces hair clip


Franny GlassMargaret Howell cotton blouse, Proenza Schouler full skirt, Salvatore Ferragamo flat heels, Ray-Ban shades, Chanel lipstick

But I haven't got a stitch to wear...

a frustrated Cher in Clueless

I’ve recently started monitoring my purchases since the year started. And at first, I was in awe.
Now, I just feel nothing but disgust for myself for being able to spend so much in such a short period of time. It’s scary how quickly I’m able to make money disappear.

A lot of this have to do with impulse buying. It’s dangerous and not at all worth it, but is sadly and shamefully a terrible habit of mine.
Sure, a $20 top from H&M doesn’t really seem like it would hurt, neither would a £4 skirt, which may initially seem like a bargain triumph.
(FACT: I once purchased a £6 horse-print dress from Primark without trying it on. I thought, Ahhh, Horses! At this price! And it’s the last one in my size – I have to get it! I then went home and forgot about it, almost as quickly as my decision to buy it. When I came across it again in my luggage, I couldn’t figure out why I bought it in the first place. Despite the cute galloping horses all over the dress, the colour did not suit me at all; it fit like a stiff apron, and the quality, needless to say, was awful. Yet I felt no pangs of regret then because, oh well, what’s £6, right? If I could go back in time, I would totally kick myself in the shin. That’s about $10 down the drain, and no way of getting it back.)
In the long run, these little, seemingly insignificant purchases add up. In the past 4 months alone, I would have been able to afford a good camera and a new iPod, or airfare to cross the Atlantic if I only saved. Now that $20 top and £4 skirt are sitting in my closet, only worn twice, maybe 3 times, and already, it’s become threadbare, faded and awaiting for disposal. (The £6 Primark dress had long been donated. I got rid of it as quickly as possible. I think, subconsciously, the item served as a testament of how out-of-control my habits were becoming. But I was still hesitant to admit it then.)

For many a time, I’ve stood in my room, frustrated – not knowing what or whining about having “nothing” to wear. It’s these too-common instances of frustration that fuel the urge to buy, buy, buy, and it’s a costly attitude to have.
It’s definitely high time for me to change my ways. It’s a learning process, and it will definitely take some getting used to – and loads of discipline and self-restraint! But I’m determined to follow through. I have to. Over-consumption is not only depletive for finances but also very unhealthy for the environment! (My high school environmental club president-self must be very disappointed in me.)
And I certainly do not need any more stuff to add to a life of clutter.