URL address of your im The Decadent Life: May 2008

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Things I'm Loving

I have encountered many marvelous things in my lifetime, and this world never ceases to amaze me. When I am feeling down, I can always find something to help me regain my faith in this planet and in this existence. I figured it would do some good to share with everyone what little wonders I am currently in love with, so maybe they can brighten some of your not-so-amazing days. I aim to spread the love here, so I hope you enjoy my obsessions as much as I do!


Polyvore- What can I possibly say about this incredible device? It is impossibly addictive, and it is so astonishing to see what people come up with. Whether you are all about piecing together fashionable ensembles or creating a hodgepodge of imaginative madness, this place is sure to satisfy and satiate the hungriest of creative appetites!

Do the Panic by Phantom Planet- This. Song. Is. It. Oh my gosh, I just can't get that bah bah bah out of my head! I love to crank this up, jump around like a madman, and do a little Panic shake. I swear you will not be able to resist going a little bit crazy. It's absurdly catchy and silly and fun fun fun. This song always gets my heart pumping and brings out my inner goofiness =)

Music in General- I have been listening to The Kills nonstop. They have a style all there own, and it's very cool. I am also loving The Hush Sound, as always. There music is so fun and different, with a little bit of ragtime thrown in for good measure. It's just more fun, don't you think? I have discovered that YouTube is the best place to find new music. I especially love the Gossip Girl Music page, which has every song that has ever been played on the show. I have to admit, GG's soundtrack is majorly awesome. Check it out!

Writing Poetry Outside- The world is bursting with inspiration, you just have to get out and find it. I love everything about nature. Ok, maybe not everything (i.e. spiders. Eek!), but I do adore the vast majority of what mother earth has to offer. I am constantly being inspired by the tiniests things: the way a leaf falls from a tree; the sound of the wind blowing through my hair; the faint buzz given off by the wings of a ladybug. There is beauty in everything, and it is up to us to open our eyes. I never feel as beautiful as I do when I am laying in a big, grassy field, gazing into the blue abyss of a sky. It can really make you feel insignificant, like any problem you have is nothing on this grand scale of life. This is really the best feeling I have ever known.

Dressing Up- There is nothing like throwing on a dainty dress and getting dolled up. I love to feel a bit fancy and ladylike, so it is always nice to have a reason to get snazzy. If I had it my way, everyday would be a sophisticated party. I am actually pondering throwing together a little soiree just so that I can have an excuse to wear some killer heels and a pretty frock =) Dress up is the best game that has ever been invented, so go out and play!

Embrace the things that you love. Turn to them in times of doubt. I can assure you that it will wash your blues away. After all, life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain!

So...shall we dance?



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Sci-Fi Style

A few posts back, I proclaimed my newfound love for sci-fi (thanks Stephenie Meyer! Love The Host!). As I wandered around the mall today, I was pleasantly surprised to stumble upon the astounding new MAC collections, Neo Sci-Fi, Solar Fields, and Future Earth. Brilliant!

The new line is a wonderful assortment of sultry sparkles, sheer neons, and provocative pigments. I am especially keen on the Neo Sci-Fi eye shadows. They are velvety smooth with just the right amount of glimmer. I couldn't resist picking up Magnetic Fields, a black-brown -- almost purpley-- color with luscious silvery shimmer. This is perfect for a neutral-toned smokey eye, but I could also imagine using this as a smudgey, soft liner. I was very tempted by Time & Space, another gorgeous shadow. It is a wonderful shade of frosty copper, and almost melts into my skin. I'll be sure to pick it up next time! I love the lipglasses as well, particularly a pretty gold-pearled orange shade. I was on the brink of purchasing this lovely gloss when I looked at the name (Pink Grapefruit), and --oops!-- I realized that I already have it! Sigh... why must I be such a silly? The lipsticks come in an array of brights and neutrals, and they are all majorly gorgeous. I especially adore Electro, a neon orange that is scarily harsh and bright in the tube, but magically goes on sheer and lustrous. I must have it!

The Solar Bits pigments are to die for. They are a bit chunky at first swipe, but the effect that they create is pretty awesome. You can have sheer shimmer with a gentle swish of a brush, or a full-on, intense, reflective sparkle with a bit of layering. The power in your hands, my Sci-Fi confections!

I would really love to be able to do a thorough review on this collection, with pictures and such, but, sadly, I do not own the entire set--yet!

This recent influx of Sci-Fi has left me a bit thunderstruck: Once reserved for 'nerds', science fiction seems to be all the rage in the world of style. I love all things whimsical, and Sci-fi is just that. It's imaginary and fairytale-like in its own right, with endless possibilities galore. Futuristic fashion has been a recurring fad, but I think that we have recently figured out the right way to sport it without appearing like a fashion victim. It is definitely not the style to go all-out with. You need only play up one feature to suggest other-worldliness. Try some metallic leggings with a quiet top, a neon dress with neutral accessories, or bright lips with toned down eyes. Neon accoutrements are always a safe bet, as long as you don't wear more than one. Go for whatever suits your style, and wear it with pride!

Conclusion: Sci-Fi is it, darlings, so color your world neon, do a Martian wiggle, and be a little out there. After all, we are all rulers over our own fabulous, stylish planets. The rest of the world just doesn't know it yet!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Inspired

She ran through the fading wood,
Her misted eyes searching for you.
But if only she had known back then,
You were chasing her all along.

Perfume breath that drew her near.
She should have known to feel the fear.
But little girl didn't know back then.
Now she is sinking into your hands.

She said "this can't be real".
She tried to keep her heart concealed.
That life you couldn't steal.
Her love is all that you can feel now.

This stirring of birds you held too close,
Breathing in the trembling rose.
A spark of light danced off your skin,
But your body is hollow and cold.

She laughs like she will fall apart.
You know it's only a matter of time.
And time will mock you with a smile,
As you're frozen in your prime.

So run away, love, if you must.
Just don't go to far.
Because you know without this darkness,
We would never see the stars.


Can anyone guess my inspiration? I think it is pretty obvious to anyone who has an affinity for a certain pale, sparkling, mythical creature! Hehe ;D



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Final 'How to Wear' Entries

These are my last sets! Hurry and get yours in guys, the contest ends in merely two days.

How to wear... Headwear!


How to Wear... High Waists!


How to Wear... Blazers!


How to Wear... Prints!


I have had so much fun putting together little outfits for all of these trends. It has seriously opened my eyes to things that I thought I couldn't pull off in the past. That's what I love about fashion: there is no right or wrong. It's all up to the individual to express what they are feeling with each garment that they put on. Trends come and go, but if you find that something works for you, stick with it. Who cares if it was 'so last season'? Who decides what is 'in style' anyway? Have fun, be a little eccentric, and don't worry about the funny looks you may encounter. All is fair in fashion, darlings, so get out there and work it!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

I Must Be Emo

Inspired by my recent insomnia spells, I have written a little poem/song. Enjoy!

Wake up.
I know that you don't want to,
But now is the time for us to go,
Before the morning erases what is left of me.

The sandman hasn't come around my door in years.
You're still lost in slumber,
While I am barely here.

Wake up,
Open your eyes, there isn't much time.
This hazy dawn will swallow me whole.
I know that you don't want to,
But it is time for us to go.

The nightingale won't sing my song.
The somber moon is a lonely friend.
As the sun is rising,
Light illuminates my end.
So wake up.

If only I could dream.
It would be of you, I know.
But it's too late for wistfulness,
And now it's far too late to go.
We sleep.


Yes, I know, it is quite morbid. Most of my poetry seems to veer in that direction. What can I say? I'm a tortured soul. This is why I have Andrew. We collaborate on lyrics for the perfect mix of emotion. He brings the happy, and I bring the emo! Though, I must say, I do believe I have rubbed off on him a bit. His poetry appears to have reached new depths, and it is actually quite brilliant. See for yourself here

Go Team Blue!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Insomniatic Style

I have been having way too much fun on Polyvore lately. Night after night, I find myself anchored to this screen, playing with clothes, forging miniature works of art. I do so until I hear those chiding, early morning birds, mocking me gently from outside my window. Much like they are doing now. What has my life become? Curse you, fashion! How you fill my heart with sleepy woes and ruthlessly write slumber across my eyes. You will be the death of me, sweet Polyvore, and yet, I love you still...

My latest creation for the How to Wear challenge.

How to Wear...Metallics!


I believe I am, officially, an insomniac. Or maybe I just really love clothes that much. Sure... I'll keep telling myself that. I suppose I will try to get what few hours of rest that I still can. Nighty night, sweets!

Or rather... good morning?



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Sunday, May 18, 2008

The Host with the Most

I have stated this before, but I will say it again: I am a major book worm. Yesterday I trekked to my home away from home, Barnes & Noble, to pick up a few fun little things. Being the absolute Twihard (die-hard Twilight series fan!) that I am, I was very happy to see that the amazing Stephenie Meyer's new book, The Host, was out. I greedily snatched the first copy I could get my hands on, and let me tell you, this book is incredible!

I had learned of The Host long before it's release, and though I adore Stephenie Meyer, I was a bit wary of this new novel. It sounded very sci-fi, which it is, and I just didn't know if i would enjoy it. So, like any smart internet user, I Googled the book and located some reviews. I was very pleased with what I read.

I am now proudly in love with this book. The story is very original, and the characters are superb. It is amazing how emotionally involved I have become! I have been up until the wee hours of the night, unable to tear my eyes away from this masterpiece. I am also very glad that The Host is a bit thicker than most novels. I tend to go through the usual 300 pagers in a single night, so it's nice to get a chance to absorb the information and let what I have read sit with me for a while. I am trying to pace myself and let the story drag on as long as possible, but it's nearly impossible to do since I have been completely transfixed and glued to the pages.

I started writing this post a few days ago, and since then I have read through half of the book. It has only gotten better. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a little mystery, sci-fi action, and an all around awesome love story. You won't be disappointed!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Saturday, May 17, 2008

How To Wear Competition

Gala is hosting a How To Wear... competition and needless to say I am excited! The premise of the contest is to see who can create the best way to wear a number of trends using the oh-so-wonderful Polyvore. She will be choosing twelve winners who will receive cute little doodads from Gala herself, and who will also be featured on her blog. Yay! I have put together four looks out of the twelve categories, and I must say, I do believe that they are pretty fabulous! See for yourself:

How to Wear...Gladiator Sandals!


How to Wear...Purple!


How to Wear...Waistcoats!


How to Wear...1940's Style!


And more to come!

As you can see, I have created three looks for each trend. I don't believe that there is any one "right" way to wear something, so I just had to throw a few different looks in there. I want to show everyone that you can wear certain trends, no matter what your style is. Take the gladiator sandal look, for example. You can wear a heeled version if you are more of a city chic girl, a tall pair if you are a bit eclectic, and a simple style if you are more girly casual. Don't be afraid of trends! Embrace and tweak them a bit to make it your own. Don't ever think you that can't "pull off" something because it doesn't fit in with your style. If you love something, just do it! I guarantee you will be better off for having tried it out. And who knows? It may just become your "thing"!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Wonderful News

As many know, I am in a super-cool band called The Blue Hour. Well, get ready people, because we have just inducted a new member into our exclusive, music-making machine. Her name is Diamond Floyd (really!) and, though I have yet to officially meet her, I am insanely excited to have her join. She plays guitar, sings, and composes. And hello? Just look at that name! She is made to be a rock star. I am actually considering changing my name to something more fame-worthy! Hehe!

Andrew, Cameron and I had Miss Floyd do an over-the-phone audition a few days ago, and I have got to say, wow! She is incredibly talented and exactly what we need. She knows what she is doing, whereas the rest of us are somewhat amateurs at this point. Our band has been on a slight hiatus because of our many conflicting schedules, but we will be kicking into high gear come summertime. I am still learning to play the piano, but I have to admit that I've been majorly slacking off =/ Andrew has recently written the two of the most amazing songs I have ever seen or heard, and I am very anxious to put his beautiful words to music.

I can't wait to get things together and really start to construct full songs. We have a lot of talent in this band, and I have been so blessed to be a part of it all. I suppose I am most looking forward to the performance aspect. I can only imagine how amazing it is going to be up on that stage, in front of a crowd, getting our message out there. I can hardly contain my excitement, and I know things are only going to get better.

Yay! This is going to be awesome!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Friday, May 9, 2008

Storybook Style

If you haven't noticed by now, I am positively obsessed with fairytales. I just love everything about them. I, like many girls, loved playing princess as a child and had dreams of one day being rescued from my mundane world by my knight in shining armor. While I have yet to find Prince Charming, I have mastered the art of emulating my favorite storybook damsels. I still like to fancy myself as somewhat of a fairytale maiden. I do, after all, live in a cottage in the forest-like backyard of my grandfathers house. For woodland critters, we have several dogs, the sweetest bunny (who happens to roam free in the yard), and an entire colony of squirrels. I explained my living situation to some friends a few weeks ago, to which they responded, "Who are you? Snow White?" Sigh...if only I were.

Gala Darling, the best blogger (and so much more) in the world, wrote an article called Dressing With The Essence OF Fairytales. She is the most inspiring person I have ever seen, so check her out! I couldn't possibly explain the way to embody fairytales as she can, so I will show you instead. Here I have put together a few outfits which will evoke the spirit of our beloved princesses and storybook ladies.




Alice in Wonderland

Alice would have to be my favorite of the bunch. She is whimsy defined, and has proved to be an inspiration to many in the fashion industry. Take, for example, every pair of shoes in this set. They are the Teacup Pump by Miu Miu, and are, without-a-doubt, meant to suggest that famous tea party with the Mad Hatter. Needless to say, I am in love with these shoes. If you adore Alice, you can sport her look without having to don a pinafore. For the classic Alice look, pair a blue dress with black maryjanes and bow headband. If you are keen on the Red Queen, try a palette of red, black, and white, and accessories featuring playing cards. You could also invert the colors of Alice's uniform and wear something like this black dress with a white bib detail and white or blue shoes. Add a cute bunny minaudiere and shake well!

Ariel

I adore mermaids, and Ariel has always been a significant influence on my style. I even had fire-red hair (which I loved!) a few months ago. I adore the purple pleated dress with those scaly shoes. It subtly says "Aquatic" rather than shouting "I have a tail!" Shells and pearls always help to establish a mermaid look, as do oceanic colors and flowing waves of fabric. Try a starfish necklace, a pearl headband, or an abalone clutch. Under the sea, la la la la...

Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

This princess was by far the most difficult to decipher. What makes a girl Sleeping Beauty without sleep? Try a princess-pink or blue dress with bow accessories. Crown jewelry will also show off just how royal you are. A cute eye-mask will help you get your beauty sleep!

Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

I must admit that I most closely relate to Miss Belle. I am a complete bookworm with a love for enchanted things. An easy way to emulate her is by wearing a sunny yellow dress and rose accessories. I also love these Miu Miu Candlestick Pumps, which are reminiscent of Lumiere, the enchanted candlestick who befriends Belle during her stay in the castle. You could also be a pre-castle Belle and wear a pretty blue dress and flower jewelry. Bonjour!

Cinderella

Who doesn't love Cinderella? The ultimate fairytale, she goes from a poor, abused, servant, to the prettiest princess there is. For those of us lacking a fairy godmother and pumpkin carriage, a blue dress and lucite heels with suffice. You can try a modern style with a black bow belt and headband, a classic cocktail dress with silver, glass-like heels, or, for a more understated look, a boho frock with shiny flats. Pumpkin charms will complete your lovely look. Just remember to be home before midnight ;)

The Frog Princess

Being that there is no Disney movie based on this dame, I had to use my imagination. Emerald gowns and frog jewelry come to mind, as well as flowers and golden headbands. A pretty purple dress also works well. Frog kissing is, luckily, not required. Unless, of course, you are into that sort of thing...!

Princess Jasmine (Aladdin)

Jasmine would have to be the most exotic princess on the list. Cop her style with a jeweled or gold headbandand a red, turquoise, or purple dress. Tiger or serpent jewelry will add a magical touch, and sparkly sandals pull the Arabian royalty look together. Now where did I put that magic carpet...

Pocahontas

Being that I resemble this historic lady the most, Pocahontas has always been close to my heart. A nude dress and lots of turquoise jewelry evoke the Native American spirit. Feathers are also a great addition to this look. Wear them in your hair, your ears, or around your neck. Neutral, metallic sandals are a more wearable option if you aren't crazy about moccasins. Now all that's left is to find a raccoon friend and an English captain.

Snow White

Snow White would have to be my alter ego. My mom, as a matter of fact, looks very much like Snow, with her pale pallor and jet black hair. It would be very difficult to pull off a bright blue and red top with a yellow skirt, so instead try wearing a dress in one of these colors. I personally prefer the yellow dress with with red headband, but a royal blue gown or red dress and blue bow headband work just as well. Apples and mirrors are Snow White staples, so wear them with abandon! Warning: Seven dwarfs sold separately =)

Tinkerbell

The minuscule pixie friend of Peter Pan is simply wonderful. She is spunky, adorable, and she can fly! No wonder she is a favorite of so many little girls. On my last trip to Disneyland I purchased several Tink pins for my oh-so-cool lanyard. I know, I'm a nerd, but it was pretty cute! A little green dress is a no-brainer, but the recent influx of designer puff-ball detailed shoes will really bring out the pixie in you. For the more daring ones, these Alexander McQueen woman-heeled slingbacks are a great option. Pirate-inspired jewelry also compliments this look. Tink away!

The point of this blog, besides professing my love for fairytales, is to show you that you can still be a little girl and play princess without having to wear a big, poofy dress. You want to whisper fairytale, not look like you are in a costume and make people wonder if Halloween came early this year. Whether you are sporting one character element or going full out fairytale, you want to maintain an air of mystery. Leave everyone thinking, "Hey, that girl reminds me of someone..."

As one of my favorite book and movie characters, Sara Crew, says, "I am a princess. All girls are. Even if they live in tiny old attics. Even if they dress in rags, even if they aren't pretty, or smart, or young. They're still princesses. All of us."

So go out and be the princess that I know you are. There is a Prince Charming out there somewhere, so don't be afraid to find him! Remember, your life is a story waiting to be written, so make waves, be different, and always love whatever it is that you do. Princess Power!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

The Price of Tea

As I was reading the new Gossip Girl:The Carlyles, a small part of the storyline struck an earsplitting chord with me. Allow me to explain:

Avery, one of the Carlyle triplets, is a sweet girl who is eager to be accepted by her classmates at Manhattan's exclusive Constance Billard School for Girls. She decides to run for student liaison and- inspired by her recently deceased grandmother- hosts a sophisticated tea party in order to win over her less-than-friendly peers. However, despite the fact she handed out invitations to the entire junior class, only one girl shows up. Avery is absolutely crushed and cannot understand the reason for her would-be guests absence. The sole attendee, a girl who is somewhat of an outcast, explains to Avery that people want to go to a party with booze and boys, not a tea party to discuss a school-sponsored position.




The truth and relevance of this situation in the real world blows me away. Many of the people that I know love to drink and party every weekend - and some, everyday. I have never been able to comprehend the allure of alcohol. Does how much one can get drunk define their social rank? I miss the days of innocence, having tea parties with my stuffed animals. Is it so childish now? I honestly don't think so.

Though saddens me to think that this is what my generation has come to, I can't pretend to be entirely innocent. Yes, I have gone to parties and consumed alcohol, and yes, it was disgusting in every possible way. It still makes me nauseas to even think about it. I tried it once or twice, but it is simply not me. I could never be a party girl. I mean, I could try, but that's not who I am, nor is it who I ever want to be. I think many people get into these sort of activities because they are curious and bored, as was I. We live in a world where the media is constantly glamorizing the consumption of alcohol. At every turn their is another photograph of young starlets throwing back martinis at the hottest clubs. It is soon implanted in our minds that this is the definition of "cool" and so the popularization and cultural acceptance of underage drinking ensues. Well, I'm here to tell you that there is no point to this type of behavior. I don't, however, look down on those who choose to drink and party. I do think that there are more productive ways to spend your time, but that's just me. Drinking will not make you happy!

I don't drink (save for those few drops so long ago), I have never done drugs, and I have never smoked. I am very proud that I have managed to keep a mostly clean record despite having such easy access - and frequent exposure - to a number of substances. I am not proud of the fact that I was once involved in the party culture, but I put that behind me and focus on the present. The people who I am friends with now are more than I could have ever wished for. They are beams of positive energy who share my high moral standards and personal values. We have gone to church together since we were children and I am so lucky and blessed to have them in my life.

I want us all to embrace that child that I know is somewhere within us. Go ahead, bust out your teddy and have some tea. Invite some friends over for a British brunch. Have fun!

I'm planning to throw a High Tea & Brunch fund raiser at my church very soon, as a matter of fact ;)



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Never Judge A Book...

I have a confession to make: I am completely and utterly in love with chick lit. It's actually quite embarrassing. My torrid love affair with trashy, teen novels began about two years ago when I borrowed my first Gossip Girl book from the school library. I didn't know what to expect, and oh, how quickly I fell! It was a deliciously guilty read, and I couldn't help but to savor the mischievous feeling that washed over me with every turn of a page. Being the complete goody-goody that I am, these books were a thrillingly naughty escape into a world where I could let my rebellious side take control. I gobbled up every word I read. It was wonderful!


My relationship with chick lit is still going strong. To this day I have read the entire Gossip Girl series, as well as its spin-off, The It Girl, all of the Pretty Little Liars books, the Twilight trilogy, and a few stray novels such as The Luxe (gah! loved it!) A Great and Terrible Beauty, The Upper Class (not so much...), Blue Bloods, and the newly released Poseur (I'd give it a B+). Despite my intense ardor for this literary genre, it has proved difficult to find books that I truly enjoy. Some leave me feeling a bit bare and slightly less intelligent, but I suppose that comes with the territory. My affections, however, aren't solely reserved for chick lit. I have read many novels in school and I am currently working on The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton, which is an amazing book that I would highly recommend.

Don't be ashamed of your love for something that others may find silly! I have experienced my fair share of embarrassment, and it all seems so trivial to me now. Be free, be confident, and never be ashamed. Where I used to venture into the book store in disguise, I presently carry my beloved trashy novels to the front counter with pride. Now, when the cashier inquires, "Is this all you want?" I lift my chin, smile wide, and reply, "Why, yes. Yes it is."

Now excuse me as I devour the new Gossip Girl =)



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

She Sells Seashells

I basically adore everything that has to do with the ocean, and this Celestina Abalone Minaudiere simply makes my heart sing. This little clutch could make any outfit shine with an ethereal, sea goddess glow. Though I am not known to accessorize very often, unique accoutrements such as this abalone treat make me melt inside. This magnificent $880 minaudiere happens to be sold out (sadness!) but you can find some just-as-adorable Celestina shell clutches here.

A few ways one could fashion this fine sea gem:

Simple Sea Nymph Style



For A Night Out



Ethereal Elegance



Pairing one or two enchanted items with an outfit is a way for us non-children to play dress up without appearing daft. I would love to see more people dressing with a taste of eccentricity and romance. Whimsy is the core of fashion, so don't be afraid to let your inner child shine through! Go ahead and emulate your favorite fairytale character. I always do =)



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Monday, May 5, 2008

The Sound of Music

Music is one of the most important and necessary forms of expression in my life. Music can sympathize with you, comfort you, and offer guidance. It also has the ability to intensify every emotion you could possibly feel. Happy songs can fill you with delight, sad songs will fuel depression, and some songs can leave you even more confused than you were before you pressed play. Music is a wonderful, powerful outlet for emotive expression. When I am having a bad day, jotting down a few lyrics always helps to put things into perspective. Reading your own thoughts is a very strange thing, especially if you can't remember why you wrote them down in the first place. Having the ability to convey my feelings through the written word is very important to me. It helps me maintain sanity during some of the crazy moments in life.




I have recently formed a band with a few of my very close friends: Andrew , Cameron, and Evangel. We are called The Blue Hour , and we have had the most amazing experience being in this band together. Sure, we might have a few "creative differences", but I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to share my musical vision with. They have helped me grow not only as an artist, but as a person. They never cease to amaze me, from their kind, loving words of support to their infinite amount of talent. Without them I am incomplete. We are more than just a band; we are a driving force always pushing each other to the creative limit. My friends are my cumulative inspiration and muse, and I couldn't imagine a life without them.

I love you guys!

What kind of music do you like? How does it make you feel? I strongly encourage everyone to make music as often as they see fit, in any way they can. The world is always playing a song just for you, so listen up! I bet, if you stepped outside right now, natures sweet symphony would fill your ears. Open your hearts, sing out loud, and let melodious earth be your own personal playlist. Don't forget to dance and wiggle a bit too!

cupcakes&kisses,
Stephanie

A Method To the Marvel

As I was casually leafing through the pages of this month's Vogue, I stumbled across sheer brilliance:







photos by Craig McDean


I always love a good fantasy spread, and this was no exception. These costumes are to die for. I especially adore Poison Ivy and her lush, green organza dress. Loving mystical aquatic creatures as I do, the Little Mermaid is my absolute favorite of the bunch. Just look at that Gaultier Paris rubber bodysuit! The shell detail and sequined tail are enough to make any girl want to take a dip in her nearest body of water. It is really quite a beautiful garment. Don't be surprised if you spot someone walking down the street in a shell bustier and fish tail. It's only me =)

The article was wonderful as well. Who would have guessed that comic book superheros and fashion could be so closely related?
"The superhero is really the ultimate metaphor of fashion," declares Andrew Bolton, curator of "Superheros: Fashion and Fantasy," the Costume Institute's dynamic new exhibit (Metropolitan Museum of Art, May 7-September 1). "It's all about the transformation of identity through fashion, through clothing, through one's appearance."
-- article "Daring Do" Vogue, May 2008
Though I have never been very interested in comic books or graphic novels, I have acquired a newfound love and respect for the superhero. They are an escape into fantasy, where one can be whatever they want. I like think of it as somewhat of a secret fashion identity. Sure, everyone may think you are prim, proper, and all business, but just wait until they find that mermaid bodysuit lurking in your closet.
"Fashion, like the superhero, allows you to dream and escape into a world of unfetterd imagination" - Giorgio Armani
I couldn't have said it better, Gio.


confections&kisses,
Stephanie

These Shoes Were Made For Coveting


What is it about shoes that women find alluring? Is it the way a heel can make our legs look miles longer? Could it be a certain special detail? Maybe some of us simply feel that a shoe makes the outfit.

For me, these Prada Spring 2008 Flower Pumps say it all. I am deeply and irrevocacbly in love with them. Well, not these exact shoes per se, but a slightly different version, which, despite searching with desperation, I have not been able to locate a picture of. I have no other choice but to describe them for you: They are made of shimmering gold leather and smooth black suede with a dainty gold t-strap. The heel is as you see above, only it is painted yellow and purple rather than turquoise and blue. These shoes are positively brilliant and amazing in every possible way.

Some people, more often than not, won't really "get" or understand this shoe, but in my eyes it is all too clear: they were made for me. It is true, these shoes have been around for some time, but never in my wildest dreams had I imagined that they would be within my grasp. Somehow, magically, they now are. Whether or not I will actually have them remains a mystery. I just can't get over that fabulous heel! It is really about time the heel of a shoe got some attention.

Many would imagine this hard to wear or pull off, but when paired with the right outfit, these could make magic. I picture sporting these amazing works of art with a floaty dress, frollicking through a meadow. Or maybe with a tailored pair of skinny jeans and a crisp blouse. Then again, I could vamp it up with a little black tulip-skirt dress and black tights. Oh, the possibilities! They are feminine, whimsical, and a little bit out there, much like yours truly. No wonder I am so obsessed!

The moral of the story is that you should never be afraid of fashion. So what if your friends think it's slightly ugly? If you truly love something it will never matter. Don't be a lamb when it comes to style! Cultivate your own aesthetic with what you love.
As the wonderful RuPaul once put it,
"I have one thing to say... You better work!"


confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Sunday, May 4, 2008

The Look Of Love


Love is indeed a many splendored thing. Love is euphoric, sometimes painful, but always somewhere within us. I am sure even the grouchiest of grouches has love for someone or something in this world. Love is a recurring theme in The Decadent Life, and also in my own personal existence.
So, without further ado, here a few of my loves:
  1. Fashion
  2. Books
  3. Music
  4. Family & Friends
  5. My doggies Coco & Bambi
  6. Nature
  7. Sunshine
  8. Cupcakes
  9. Kisses
  10. Whimsy
And, also, as with any human being, I have things that I don't love so much:

  1. Mean people
  2. Uncompassionate people
  3. Rudeness
  4. Ignorance
  5. Negativity
  6. Narrow-minded people
  7. Spiders
  8. Lonliness
  9. Bullying
  10. Depression
I am a deeply compassionate person. It is basically impossible for me to be even slightly mean to others. I love to be happy and to embrace my inner child. I wish the world could kick off their shoes, stop being so serious, and just love one another. I ache for mankind to end the hate and prejudice aimed towards certain groups of people. Who cares if they don't share our beliefs? Who cares if they are of a different religion? Who cares if someone has a sexual orientation different from the norm? I don't care. It's about opening our hearts here, so let's stop judging and start loving. As a great man once sang, what the world needs now is love, sweet love. Let it be our mantra. Love is, afterall, pretty sweet!

=)

confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Once Upon A Time...

...there was an 18 year old girl named Stephanie. She has had an inexplicable gravitaion toward the pleasures in life for as far as her memories could take her. She was a needle in the compass, always pointing toward decadent north. She spent her days poring over magazines filled with beautiful people, reading books filled with beautiful words, listening to beautiful music, and eating beautiful food. Beauty was all around. At every turn, life presented her with another wonder to behold.

This girl was also a hopeless romantic. She seemed to fall in love with everything she set her eyes upon: Clothes, makeup, people, animals, nature, and, most of all, words. Oh, what great power words held! It was only natural that she should merge her many loves in life, and so, The Decadent Life came to be. In this special place, she can now put her undying love for beauty into as many words as she pleases. Words are the most beautiful thing she has ever known.

Who is this girl, you ask? If you haven't guessed it already, this girl just so happens to be me. I am Stephanie Marie Bean, an 18 going on 19 young woman with a penchant for style. I am in love with love, and I can't help but to fall for just about everything that comes my way. Passion is my strongest suit. I have passion for everything. It is quite exhausting at times, but i wouldn't have it any other way. I am part fashionista, part poet, part musician, and a million parts lover. I aim to spread the joy of beauty.

This is more than just a fashion blog. This is about finding the beauty in every of facet life, even during the most hideous of times. I suppose you could call me a passionista. Yes, a passionista I am indeed.


confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Welcome, Oh Decadent Ones

Come one, come all, I welcome you to The Decadent Life.
Here you will find a mystical land filled with whimsical wonders, couture confections, boundless beauty, and your deepest, most decadent desires. This is where the possiblities are truly infinite for anyone who is infatuated with fashion. Or rather, for those of us who are hopelessy infashionated. Yes... infashionated seems to be the word most befitting to my endless devotion to all things pertaining to style. It is the pulse through my veins, the breath in my lungs, and above all, the beat in my heart.

The Decadent Life:
An existence characterized by the indulgence of, and passion for, the finer things in life.

This is my world, and I welcome you to reside with me in the lap of luxury.

confections&kisses,
Stephanie