V is for Olive

In The Land of Milk and Honey

2012-01-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

Allow me to share with you a longwinded story from my misguided youth...

Once upon a time I was a third grader. One day in class we were given a "biography" assignment. The task was to select someone that we admired, get approval from our teacher, research the subject and put together a report as if we were the character. The final project was to be presented in front of the entire class in full character, including costume. Naturally, all I heard was costume and really only cared about how jaw dropping I could make my ensemble.

However, being that I was small and brown my choices were seriously hindered in the doppleganger department. I turned to my mom for help to find a legendary lady I could pass for. My parents, knowing my obsession with glamour and the pranksters that they are, suggested a plethora of feisty women throughout history. Mata Hari, Mae West and Billie Holiday were all nixed by my teacher. Apparently espionage, innuendos and drug overdoses were not suitable topics for third graders. At the last minute, my mom gave me a book about Cleopatra. I rejoiced that there were brown Queens after all! - then set out to absorb everything I could about the famous leader - and of course, planning my outfit.

One of my favorite things about Cleopatra was her attention to detail. From her hair to her jewels to the way she was carried into rooms on her throne, biographers are in agreement that she never missed an opportunity to turn heads. People still talk about how she did her eyeliner, okay? That is pretty glam. I was also disgusted to learn that she bathed in camel milk. Remember, this was back in the third grade...although, that is still kind of gross.

Fast forward to twelve years later and oh look, there I am in some expensive beauty shop buying...you guessed it. Milk and honey bath solution. Thankfully there was nothing with camel by-products, but I still wanted something with ingredients I could pronounce and decided to mix up something myself, just like Cleopatra would have had her minions do. While researching how to make my own milk and honey bath, I discovered that milk baths use alpha hydroxy acid (found in lactic acid) to dissolve the proteins which hold together skin cells. Translation: it exfoliates your skin and makes fresh skin cells visible. The combination of milk and honey also helps to relax your muscles, leaving you feeling calm yet really invigorated.

I found some recipes online and modified them a bit. This recipe is very soothing and feels super luxurious, but is actually beyond simple and cheap to make.

Lavender-Honey Milk Bath Recipe

Ingredients:
Dried lavender flowers*
6 cups whole milk
2 cups water
1/2 cup honey
5-6 droplets lavender oil
5-6 droplets tea tree or chamomile oil
1 tsp. epsom bath salts

*If you can, pick wild lavender and dry it out a few days ahead of time by laying the flowers flat in a dry room. Otherwise, dried lavender flowers can be found in the spice section of gourmet and specialty stores. Put in however many you'd like: the more you add, the stronger the scent of lavender will be.

Directions:
Whisk together lavender, oils, milk, water, bath salts and honey in a large bowl. The salts will sink to the bottom with the honey if it sits too long, so immediately pour the mixture into a jar with a lid. Add a ribbon and label if you're feeling crafty.

Before each use, shake the jar and pour the mixture into the bath. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Makes enough for 2-3 baths, or 4 foot soaks.

I've yet to fashion my own kohl eyeliner or sarcophagus headpiece.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission.

Lychee Bus Stop

2012-01-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

Hat: Vintage, Necklace: SewTrendy on Etsy, Thermal: Hanes, Dress: F21, Sweater: Thrift, Tights: Express,

Boots: Vintage (Brazilian Riding Boots), Purse: Vintage, Nails: Same as previous post

I wore this the other day when my sister and I had a "South Pacific" themed night out. We went to a Japanese steakhouse, where I thought my order of sablefish was some sort of swordfish. The food smelled so good when it came out I decided not to say anything. Also I was ashamed and did not want to reveal my culinary stupidity. Miso-glazed sablefish is now a favorite dish. It's full of Omega 3's and tastes like buttah. I can't wait to try to re-create the recipe at home. Then it was down the block to a seafood lounge, whatever that is. Anyway, they had giant $6 lychee martinis and it wasn't even Happy Hour, so who cares exactly what a seafood lounge is?

Obviously, my sartorial choices did not match the theme since we were on foot and it was very cold out. I was insistent on some sparkles, being that it was still pre-New Years' celebrations. This shimmery pink dress with gold sparkle-flecks in the overlay was a great find. I made it festive for winter with brown and cream accents.

The little leather purse has red, brown, and purple Western designs etched into it and reminds me of something a Native American Medicine Woman would use to tote around all of her goodies. It is the perfect size: just big enough for phone, keys, wallet and Rosebud Salve.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without credit and/or permission of site.

Snow Falling on Pines

2011-12-28T17:39:00.000-08:00

Turtleneck, Skirt: H&M, Tights: F21, Boots: Minnetonka, Coat: Vintage,

Nail Polish: Sinful Colors Love Nails 801 and OPI Breathe Life

Yesterday it snowed all day and today the blanket covering everything was so pretty I had to go outside and tromp through it. After being inside the past week catching up on work, Netflix (Limitless, Valley of the Dolls, All About Eve, and Twin Peaks), books (The Help, Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy) and recipe experiments (thanks, Ina) it was fun to experience the Great White North.

When I came outside in this super warm vintage faux fur coat, my sister pointed out that one of her new kittens (a sweet little calico just like mine in L.A.) matched it perfectly. Obviously, she was too cute to not bring along with us when we went to shoot these photos.

My favorite thing about this outfit is how insanely warm I was while still wearing a skirt and cute jacket. Snowboarding is officially the only excuse for puff jackets and long johns. The trick to staying well-heated is to get some extra thick tights, then inside of your (waterproof) boots, wear some thick socks too. My nail color was inspired by the icy blue colors outside my window and is my own mix.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without credit/permission of site.

ADHD Activities

2011-12-23T10:57:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do while watching TV is to scour the internet for inspiring images. This little activity helps keep me excited about all of the many projects I have going on at all times. This image sparks that idea which turns into that story/blog/photo/joke/outfit/etc. A lot of "creatives" (God, I hate that word but I'm at a loss for something les douche-y sounding) have similar inspiration folders. People watching with me tend to get annoyed that I can't focus on one thing at a time, but I'm pretty sure sitting passively on the couch is a form of torture in some countries. This exercise in hyperactivity is also a great way to pass off aimless web browsing as "work", or better yet, as "research".

In the spirit of the holidays, I thought I would share some of my latest Winter Wonderland finds.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images appear courtesy of studdedhearts.blogspot.com, houseandhome.com, bellamumma.com, pinterest.com, weheartit.com, tabacblond.tumblr.com, bippityboppityboo.tumblr.com, honestlywtf.com, piccsy.com, tumblr.com

Give A Little Bit

2011-12-16T12:38:00.000-08:00

Between holiday parties, concerts, gift buying-and-receiving, travel, and trying to somehow keep it all together during the holidays, it becomes very easy to lose sight of what this time of year is supposed to be about. The other day one of my friends told me she is a Scrooge because she hates how everyone gets so greedy around this time of year and that it stresses her out to see her older siblings trying so hard to please their kids with the perfect presents. Since I am a very jolly, holiday-loving cheeseball, I showed her the Olive Elf light via hot caramel apple cider, my sparkly Christmas tree and the Christmas station on Pandora. She begrudgingly agreed that maybe the holidays can be fun.

But she brought up a good point. The holidays are supposed to be a break from work and school to spend time with friends and family. It's about love and appreciating all of the good things that have happened to you this year, and sharing that with others - you don't have to be rich to think positive and you don't have to actually believe in Christmas to appreciate the spirit of the season.

So although I love fashion and everything that goes along with it, since I blog about that all year long I've decided to change it up for the holidays. Don't worry, there are still plenty of amazing gift guides out there - Cupcakes & Cashmere and The Magpie Girl are two of my favorites - but I've scraped my own gift guides that I had planned for the rest of this week and put together a different type of list. One that will bring truly Happy Holidays to people that maybe haven't had as good of year as us. The organizations on this list help the less fortunate and while you can give to them on your own, it's also a wonderful idea to make donations in the names' of those on your gift list in order to spread the word about the amazing work that they do.

OXFAM. From art supplies and books for children to computer training and farm animals, OXFAM helps children and families all over the world by using your donation to provide them with the tools necessary to survive and thrive despite the poverty and injustice of their circumstances. There is even a tab on the site that allows you to send a card featuring a photo of your gift on the front when you donate on behalf of someone.

FINCA. This microfinance organization provides entrepreneurs in struggling countries with loans to start their own businesses, which allows them to support their families and create jobs in their communities utilizing local crafts and services. Just reading through the inspiring FINCA Clients section of the site will make even the tiniest of Grinch hearts grow three times their size.

Toys for Tots. Run by the US Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots was started to "deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens." Bring any new, unwrapped toy to a drop-off box, which can be found throughout any community where a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located from October - December. You can also donate online. All of the toys are distributed throughout the U.S. to less fortunate children.

Adopt-A-Family. There are many "Adopt-A-Family" programs that can be found throughout the entire U.S. from CCSA in San Diego to Soldier's Angels, which provides lower-enlisted military families with Christmas gifts. This is a really great idea to do for your office (or any large group of people that you find yourself a part of). When you sign up, you are provided with a list of things the family needs, the ages and clothing/shoe sizes of everyone in the family. Post the list up at work and let people volunteer for what they would like to provide for the family. It's an awesome way to bring friends and co-workers together, not to mention provide a deserving family with a Christmas they'll always remember!

These are just a few of my favorite charitable organizations, I'm sure there are many more great ones to give to this season out there. In fact, if you'd like to share please leave a link in the comments or share on Twitter!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Image appears courtesy of Dr. Seuss, via ItsBrookeRyan.com, Video appears courtesy of Roger Hodgson via YouTube.

For The Boys

2011-12-15T13:29:00.000-08:00

People always ask me why I don't cover guys' style and my answer is always the same: it's boring. Don't get me wrong, I know a lot of dudes that have an amazing, stop-you-in-your-tracks way of dressing, and I love watching a menswear show just as much as the next stylephile - but for some reason menswear has just never really been able to hold my interest for very long. It most likely has something to do with the fact that I don't get to play dress-up in the clothes as I choose them. (Selfish, yes. But at least I'm honest?) However, I've been challenging myself to try new things lately and styling menswear will be my latest dive into untested waters.

The holidays are a stressful time for a myriad of reasons, but gift-giving is usually at the top of the list. I'm sure I can't be the only one who feels completely at a loss as to what to get for the men in my life - no matter how well I know them. That's why I've put together this handy little gift guide. From tortoise-finish Wayfarers to a unique double-face watch and handy gadgets, it features classic, no-fail products sure to please even the pickiest guy on your Christmas List.

1. Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses, $145; 2. Obey Union Shirt, $96 at American Rag Cie; 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Backpack, $430 at Neiman Marcus; 4. Gramophone i-pod dock, $800+ at Anthropologie; 5. Polaroid Instant Digital Camera, $299 at Polaroid.com, 6. Boat Shoes, $25 at Forever 21; 7. Philip Stein Ceramic Watch with sapphires, $1,595 at Neiman Marcus

Hopefully these ideas helped you out. Stayed tuned later this week for more gift guides and holiday styling tips!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images appear courtesy of Ray-Ban.com, American Rag Cie, Neiman Marcus, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Anthropologie, Polaroid.com, Forever21.com, and Philip Stein.

California Adventure

2011-12-05T10:29:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite people came to visit me from NYC this weekend and number one on our To Do list was Disneyland. It was my second time in The Magic Kingdom and I still feel like I haven't even come close to seeing everything!

It was also Candlelight 2011 while we were there, which is a re-telling of the Nativity Story with a processional and an enormous choir. It was really beautiful to see, especially once they lit up the giant Christmas tree. Nothing gets you into the Christmas spirit quite like Disney does! Now I'm completely ready for christmas songs, a cookie party, hot cocoa with candy canes, and holiday sweaters.

Flannel Shirt: Thrift, Leggings: Vera Wang, Motorcycle Boots: Santee Alley, Extra Long Knit Scarf: H&M,

Cross-body sweater bag: SewTrendy, Faux Pearl Earrings: F21, Sunnies: F21, Mouse Ears: Disneyland

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

Thanksgiving Time

2011-11-28T00:52:00.000-08:00

While flipping through the pictures on my Blackberry it seemed like a good time to do another Basket of Berry post.

As soon as the Christmas tree goes up ontop of the Capitol Records building, the holiday season is upon us. I spotted it at night last week. From friends' Thanksgivings, birthdays, and music video shoots to a mini road trip to visit my best friends' family and their two-day Thanksgiving celebration in Rancho Palos Verdes (where getting a picture of that sinkhole is impossible!), to scouring the internet for Black Friday deals to a beachside cookout on Sunday - ever since I snapped this picture of the Capitol Records tree, I've been in a whirlwind of holiday activity! Okay, maybe a beachside cookout isn't standard holiday fare but when you live in Southern California, actually, it is.

I came out of my room the other morning to find my roommate had very safely balanced a hot toaster with a bagel in it ontop of a hot coffee pot brewing coffee. On a wobbly stool. I would have been terrified if it wasn't so hilarious looking. Other pictures: cat naps, strawberry basil champagne birthdays, my Nerd Child character for Mad Moni's video, vegetarian Turkey Day appetizers, sunset Mariachi, old timey Hollywood jukeboxes, aforementioned firehazards, childhood Disney idols.

Happy Belated Turkey Day!

You Golden Girl,

Olive

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Sunday Funday

2011-11-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

As my boss observed the other day I'm getting "funkier" as I get older. I don't know if it's just the inevitable crazy cat lady thing starting to take over, or that I've only recently been uncovering L.A.'s hidden thrift store gems, but in any event I'm embracing it. I spent today forming some new traditions in my new home: a new yoga studio, a new bakery treat, scouring St. Vincent de Paul Society thrift store for new (to me) things, watching movies (All Good Things), reading in the awesome backyard (which you don't realize how much you miss until you go years without one) and taking a long walk to see everything in my new 'hood...

Pretty boring stuff but the best thing about moving far (or at least someplace that thankfully feels far from Hollywood) is discovering all of your soon-to-be-regular haunts. And sometimes the best way to get out of a rut is to scrap your old routine entirely and focus on the things that make you happy. I've made it my mission to comb through every thrift or vintage store nearby and to eat my way through the new 'hood - being vegetarian really limits your options sometimes but my new area has a ton of restaurants geared towards veggies. I'm also obsessed with the Ecuadorian bakery nearby and their sweet "quesadillas" (pictured with pineapple coffee cake).

What are some of your Sunday traditions?

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Jackie's Circus/West Hollywood Halloween Carnival

2011-11-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

I know Halloween was nearly a week ago, but cut me some slack! A new job and a new home are only two things but they’re a lot to jump into in one week! (Sidenote: why do I always forget how much work moving is? You’d think for someone who has moved as much as I have, I’d be some sort of expert at this point but my packing/moving skills remain pathetic.) New home before and after pics coming soon! But for now, a belated Halloween update.

On Saturday, my friend and make-up artist/hairstylist Jackie Coon wanted to do a themed night out in Hollywood with a big group of our girlfriends. She came up with and executed a “Vintage Circus” – complete with a cigar-smoking ringleader, The Human Cannonball, a lion and lion tamer, trapeze girls, the knife-thrower and (my costume) the knife-thrower’s assistant.

It was so fun getting made up by a professional because I usually have an aversion to make-up and sitting still long enough to do anything cool with my hair. It’s not that I don’t love it, just that I a.) get impatient and frustrated or b.) rub my eyes and face whenever I get tired (which is often) and smear it everywhere. Not cute. And I’ve written before about the ongoing fight that is styling curly hair.

The boulevard was jam-packed with costumed revelers that night but we were definitely the best dressed.

On actual Halloween night I ventured down to the West Hollywood Halloween Carnival with some friends like I do every year. I love seeing the amount of thought, creativity and effort that people put into their costumes down there! I couldn’t believe how crowded the Carnival was this year – it made getting shots of all the amazing costume difficult. My favorite this year was “Thelma and Louise” – two girls flawlessly styled as Thelma and Louise, complete with a baby blue convertible around them made from plastic and cardboard!

Full disclosure: I put together my “Vintage Sailor Girl” costume from stuff I already owned after finding a shark costume for my cat. It wasn’t the most creative getup but I was definitely warm and comfortable – a must when walking so far for so long!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

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L.A. Fashion Week - Spring 2012

2011-10-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

L.A. Fashion Week has been full of surprises this year. With a slew of shows at the Vibiana downtown, producers such as Bubble Fish Media and GenArt and attendees like The Style Map and Flaunt Magazine, Style Fashion Week Los Angeles has so far been a pleasant experience.

Here are some candid shots from the week, but be sure to head over to Glam Damn It on Joonbug to read my full coverage of the shows, including my top picks, behind the scenes shots and convos with the designers!

Vanessa from Paola Loves To Shop got us some last-minute invites to the Penelope's Vintage presentation at The Colony (pictured above). After making our way through no less than four levels of security, I finally got to see the collection and I loved it! It combined all of my favorite things about L.A. vintage: comfortable, fashion-forward pieces paying homage to their past.

Annnnnd now I want a cloak. Watch this video shot by The Garage Gypsy of the Gypsy 05 show Wednesday night to understand why:

Whew! And it's still on for 3 more days...

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

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Current Wishful Drinking: Fall Obsessions

2011-10-14T22:13:00.000-07:00

This morning, I sat down with a list in front of me. On that list were seven (or eight, depending on whether you include shoes as one item or two) currently coveted items I have been dreaming of all autumn. I was supposed to whittle the list to just one amazing, expensive, must-have thing.

I couldn't do it. Could not choose just one. I am a terrible whittler. I have to have all of the too-wonderful wardrobe additions featured here. They all fill my head with happy thoughts and daydreams about the places I could wear them, which is pretty much the main criteria for Current Wishful Drinking. That and having a price tag which would make it okay to consider purchasing only while occupying a very...specific mindset.

The See by Chloe and Rebecca Taylor crepe dresses inspired by similar styles from the 1940's are just dying to be worn beneath the soft leather and shearling of the Lot 78 aviator jacket. To say nothing of how instantly cool anyone in an aviator jacket looks. The Miu Miu heels are so pink and sparkly they would make even the most basic ensemble look playful yet fashion-forward. And that blanket coat from Matthew Williamson? I, like most women my age I'm sure, am cursing my five year old self for not saving my mother's late 80's, identical version from meeting its' destiny at Goodwill. Remember how soft those things were? I want to wrap this one around me at work and when people accuse me of "curling up in a blanket" instead of "working" I'll point out that it is actually quite a chic item of clothing. Of course, scent is the strongest sense tied to memory and the Fan di Fendi fragrance from Fendi captures the crisp, spicy and woodsy feeling of autumn like no other.

Each and every one of these clothing items can be purchased from Net-A-Porter. The shoes and the fragrance can be found at Nordstrom's. Although if you can afford all of these things at once I am so beyond jealous I don't even know why I'm helping you track them down.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images appear courtesy of Net-A-Porter, FashionIndie, and Elle.com.

Shot of Wheatgrass

2011-10-09T11:43:00.000-07:00

The weather has finally started to turn here in L.A. and I think everyone is happy. It's quite funny to walk down the street the first time it gets "cold" and notice everyone bundled up in their hats and sweaters. Even Californians love a nice fall breeze.

My sis snapped these shots a few days before this mini change in seasons. I'd still wear this now, but I'd have to add a neutral button-down shirt under the dress and change out the sandals for some light grey sweater tights and brown ankle boots.

I love this French Connection UK dress because it's made of a silk-cotton-poplin blend which makes it soft yet durable and the top has boning in it which I love for maintaining shape and it's probably the only way I'd ever wear something strapless. And the hidden pockets. Hidden pockets in a dress are always amazing. They make me feel like I'm some old French woman that needs to keep things like apples and tissues and loose flour right on my persons. You know, like an old country woman that has NO USE for a purse. Disclaimer: I do not keep apples, tissues or loose flour in my pockets. I guess what I'm trying to say is that this dress makes me feel industrious.

Sweater: Free People, Dress: French Connection United Kingdom, Sandals: Blanco,

Sunnies: Vintage, Bracelets: Various, Nail Polish: Sinful Colors Fusion Neon 60

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

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IFB Links a La Mode Sept. 29th

2011-10-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to Independent Fashion Bloggers for including my Joshua Tree Travel Guide in their weekly round-up of the best fashion blog posts! Make sure you check out all of the other great posts that made the cut as well by following the links below.

Spring Forward, Fall Back

Edited by: Collette Osuna of Statements in Fashion

I’m not sure about you, but just as men look forward to Fall for sporting events that keep them on the couch, I look forward to Fall for my own selfish reasons......adding to my closet collection!
If you enjoy sipping a cup of coffee while you browse your favorite online shopping sites, or if you prefer to rise with the sun to open the doors of your favorite Mall, Fall shopping is the time for you.
Thanks to Fashion Week, we have all had a chance to peek at the newest clothing, boots and accessories that will be filling up retail stores everywhere this season.
This weeks links focus on hot Fall runway trends, Collection debuts, DIY’s, makeup & hair tips, and even how to manage deadlines. Fall is back bloggers, and with a vengeance!

THE IFB WEEKLY ROUNDUP: LINKS À LA MODE: SEPTEMBER 29TH

ChiCquero: Mongolian Style Makeup Editorial
Mahlia Calloway: This Seasons Must Haves
Girl Loves Color: Color on the Runway: Mary Katrantzou
The Loudmouth: On Detours & Deadlines
Angela Osborn: Dear White Shirt, I love you very much!
This is a Yes: My Clothing Picks - Still for the Summer and Already for the Fall
Leia's Delights: Shopping Philosophy - knowing when to spend or splurge
Wishing for Chanel: Wear the runway trend now - Purple hues at Prabal Gurung S/S12
Fashion Dynamite: How I wore my favorite fall trend - the cape
Kirstin Marie: A small collection of my most coveted Fashion Inspiration DIY blogs.
Dress Code: High Fashion: Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11/12
Bang byLo: How to salvage a pair of shoes with glitter
V is for Olive: Discovering the hidden gems of the California desert
Juliets Lace: Autumn tips, accessories and cover ups.
The Chic Sheet: Three Spring Trends To Try Now
WanderLost: My top 10 favorites for Fall
The Style Confessions: One way to style your Missoni for Target find
Believe in Faery Tales: Eden Park or 'The Why to Paris' - An intern's tale
Style Sizzle: 5 Barbie Style Lessons
Oh to be a Muse: Keeping it Real, Natural Hair Care

SPONSOR:
Women's Sweaters at Shopbop: Vince, Chinti & Parker, Theory Sweater, Milly, Preen, Joie, James Perse, Sonia Rykiel, Cardigans , Splendid, Elie Tahari, Pencey, & Sweater Dresses.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Dripped Party

2011-10-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Last night my friend, the Garage Gypsy showed her jewelry at the Dripped Fashion Party/Trunk Show at Pop tART gallery and I stopped by to visit. It was so much fun I ended up keeping her company all night, only leaving the booth to track us down libations and macaroons.

There were a lot of great indie designers, vintage shops and artists showing so I wanted to share some of my favorite exhibitors - it is definitely worth checking out each and every one.

Miss Wax Jewelry had these incredible metal talon rings. It's times like this I wish I knew how to play guitar - think of how cool you could look if this thing was your pick.

Pattycakes and Natalie had little stations set up and it was quite fascinating to watch the ladies as they literally created tiny works of temporary art on people's fingernails. The Aztec-design manicure is my favorite at the moment.

London Fierce and Randal Castel had the most amazing vintage finds at their booth. I took a lap to think about buying some kelly green Christian Louboutin ballerina-style heels and when I came back ten minutes later they were already gone! Moral of the story: always buy a well priced Louboutin and don't come to a trunk show with your "Practical Shopper" hat on.

Great music, great macaroons, great friends and great art.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission.

Check out Olive on the Unique Vintage blog!

2011-09-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share with you all that I will now be blogging for Unique Vintage. I'm super excited and happy about this new opportunity so make sure you check out my weekly posts over there, in addition to VisforOlive.

My first post teaches readers how to score the Dainty Dominatrix look shown at Louis Vuitton RTW for less, utilizing Unique Vintage items. Let me know what you think!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

The Lorax

2011-09-23T01:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I took a little road trip with some friends to Joshua Tree. We had heard about the sound baths at the Integretron and it was the perfect time to escape the city so off we spontaneously went.

There is nothing quite like driving through the desert, especially at night. It's really something everyone should do at least once in their lives.

I think the video sums it up better than any single photo or long-winded explanation could. Here are the amazing places we visited:

Joshua Tree National Park. $15 entry fee, $10 per night for campsites. We stayed at Jumbo Rocks, which is first come first serve. I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy making new friends with fellow campers and hearing tales about mountain climbing expeditions and search-and-rescue teams that hunt for redheads (true story). Even though high season is over, plan on getting there before 6PM to stake your claim on the best sites.
Crossroads Cafe. 61715 29 Palms Highway, Joshua Tree. Adorable little bohemian spot just outside of the park entrance. Vegetarian options but taxidermied wild animals as decor. Odd but they can get away with it as their homemade cornbread is to die for.
Natural Sisters. 61695 29 Palms Highway, Joshua Tree. Four words: Date shake, add banana.
Ricochet Vintage. 61705 29 Palms Highway, Joshua Tree. Cute selection of tutus, vintage hats, and cowboy boots. Be sure to check out the cactus garden in back.
The Integratron. 2477 Belfield Blvd, Landers. Built over a magnetic field, the Integratron offers sound therapy. Make sure you book in advance for this unique homeopathic experience.
Pioneertown. This small town of saddle shops and live gun shows was built in the '40's as a set for the Western films that used to shoot there.
Pappy and Harriet's. 53688 Pioneertown Road, Pioneertown. Pappy and Harriet's is considered a Joshua Tree institution. Great live music nearly every night, ridiculously good Mesquite BBQ grilled right outside the entrance and unusual decor make it a must-stop for all High Desert road trips. I love that every drink is served in a Mason jar and the side of baked mac n'cheese for two bucks is an enormous bowl.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

P.S. - Make sure you check out Natasha's (aka The Garage Gypsy) amazing Joshua Tree video too. She has some footage of the sound chamber at the Integratron if you're as curious as I was.

All images and video property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and credit of site.

Trois dans le forêt

2011-09-14T17:31:00.000-07:00

Straw Boater Hat: Ebay, Cotton Dress: JetRag LA, Oxfords: F21

One of my favorite warm weather combinations is always a cotton dress, lace-up oxfords, and a straw boater hat. It is pretty hard to go wrong with those three items. They always make for a simple yet chic ensemble.

I love wearing stuff like this to go on a walk through the woods or bike riding. I get some strange looks but I just smile and say, "Bonjour, girl!". I'm always pretending I'm in Provence, France. The only thing missing is a picnic basket full of wine with brie and a flock of sheep.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission.

Indian Summer Giveaway

2011-09-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

This summer just doesn't want to end, and what better way to stay in a warm weather state-of-mind than with a brand new, brightly colored accessory?

Say, for example, this wonderful Market Bag from SewTrendy ? I own one of these myself and they're wonderful for bringing along to the farmer's market or wearing messenger-style for a bike ride. Interior pockets make keeping track of your cell phone, lip gloss, etc. easy.

Handcrafted from cotton and vintage barkcloth, this bag is one-of-a-kind and available exclusively through this "Indian Summer Giveaway" on VisforOlive! The 15.5" x 11" size also makes it a great option for students as it can fit standard-size folders, notebooks and tablets.

So what do you have to do to get your hands on this bad boy? It's so simple. Just follow these rules and I will announce a winner one week from today.

1.) Follow VisforOlive via the "Join this site with Google Friend Connect" button located on the side of the blog.

2.) Leave a comment on this post telling me what you're going to put inside the bag.

Whatever reader has the best answer will be named winner! Be silly, creative, serious, or fashionable - but I want to hear the truth!

Contest is open to ALL READERS, regardless of age or location! After I announce the winner, I will send you a message and you will have one week to claim your prize and tell me where to send it otherwise the prize will go to the runner up.

Good luck to all of you!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission.

Midnight in Paris

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

Although the calendar reads September, there has been a massive heat wave in Los Angeles over the past few days. Like lie inside with the air conditioning on full blast with a bag of frozen peas on your face hot. I escaped to the movie theater last night and finally got around to seeing Midnight in Paris. If I wasn't dreaming of being somewhere else before I saw the film, I definitely was after.

Owen Wilson plays Gil, a Hollywood screenwriter who feels like a sellout because he gave up on his true dream of being a novelist. He's engaged to bitchy, stereotypical Los Angeles-type-of-girl Inez (Rachel McAdams). They go on vacation to Paris with her parents. Gil is in love with the city (which he calls a "work of art" and I have to agree), especially when it rains (Woody Allen get out of my head). Inez is annoyed with everything he does and prefers spending her time with douche-y know-it-all Paul (Michael Sheen), her professor from college whom they run into one evening at dinner. Paul is lecturing at the Sorbonne and does things like argue with tour guides and proclaim himself a wine expert. One evening poor drunken Gil wants to walk around the city with Inez and she ditches him to go dancing with Paul. At the stroke of midnight, Gil is picked up by a cab that can travel back in time to 1920's Paris.

While there, Gil meets Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Cole Porter, Ernest Hemingway, Picasso, Gertrude Stein, Dali, and a host of other artistic legends. Each character is played to the full effect of their artistic myth - Hemingway is a huge drinker that speaks just as he writes. Zelda Fitzgerald guzzles champagne and speaks French with a Southern accent. Dali is over the top and fixated on creating art. Gil romanticizes everything surrounding him and returns each night, attending surrealist parties, receiving notes on his novel from Gertrude Stein and falling in love with Adrianna (Marion Cotillard), one of Picasso's muses. He also finds himself slowly but surely falling out of love with Inez.

Eventually, Gil realizes that we all romanticize the time periods we wish we could inhabit. He decides to live in the present and attempt to be true to himself no matter how much of a struggle that may be. La Vie Boheme. I highly recommend the film - Woody Allen is in top form. The way he treats Paris and his examinations of his characters reminds me of some of his best work like Hannah and Her Sisters, Manhattan, or The Purple Rose of Cairo. Midnight in Paris is a must for any wannabe Parisian or writer that wonders why they aren't bumming around Paris (which is all of them).

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Video appears courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics via Youtube. Images courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics, and MovieReviewFX

Field of Dreams

2011-08-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Thruft, Shorts: DIY cut up blanket +Thrift, Sandals: Mary Paz (Espana), Bag: Vintage Coach,

Bracelet: UO, Ring: from Navajo Reservation, Headband: Orchid Lane (Ann Arbor)

Current Call Time: Whenever the sun gets too bright through my windows

Current Listening: Back to Black: B-Sides by Amy Winehouse

Current Reading: The Secret History of the World by Mark Booth

Current Shopping: The treasures of small-town Salvation Armies

Current Exercise: Trampoline backflips and nature walks

Current Food: home grown tomatoes + olive oil + mint + garlic

Current Dream: Camping in a yurt at V Festival next summer with my bestie

Current Nightlife: Roasting marshmallows over a campfire

Lazy summer days are the greatest.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos are property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

You don't meet a girl like that every dynasty

2011-08-20T00:53:00.000-07:00

When I was little, I loved paper dolls so much. I used up a large portion of my allowance sending away for stacks of the specialty mail-order books. Victorian princesses, 20's flappers, Native American Pocahantas-types...you name it, and I probably had it (with matching shoes) in the big, flower-covered box I kept everything in.

The funny thing is, whenever someone would ask me: "Want to play paper dolls?" I thought they were a real idiot. Playing pretend wasn't fun at all - examining every style ripped from those pages was what I looked forward to. Forget the stupid doll! I just wanted her amazing vintage clothes!

Decades later and nothing has changed. The other day I spotted this old Japanese paper doll book at a sidewalk sale and I knew it was the perfect gift for my Harajuku-loving sister. Of course, I took a quick flip through the pages myself before passing it along.

The color combinations in traditional Japanese kimonos are quite varied, obviously but the inspiration from nature is evident, which I love. The muted greens, greys and blues of the water or the corals and darker Earth tones. I'm also a huge fan of the artistry behind the cinching and draping of a traditional kimono, which is meant to denote an elegant character for the wearer. A cinched waist, I can get behind. The foot-binding, not so much.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit of site.

Belief and Technique for Modern Prose

2011-08-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

I was going through some old boxes and I found this "Belief and Technique for Modern Prose" by Jack Kerouac. I often find myself using this checklist. Original spelling is used.

1.) Scribbled secret notebooks and wild typewritten pages, for your own joy
2.) Submissive to everything, open, listening
3.) Try never get drunk outside your own house
4.) Be in love with your life
5.) Something that you feel will find its own form
6.) Be crazy dumbsaint of the mind
7.) Blow as deep as you want to blow
8.) Write what you want bottomless from bottom of the mind
9.) The unspeakable visions of the individual
10.) No time for poetry but exactly what is
11.) Visionary tics shivering in the chest
12.) In tranced fixation dreaming upon object before you
13.) Remove literary, grammatical and syntactical inhibition
14.) Like Proust be an old teahead of time
15.) Telling the true story of the world in interior monolog
16.) The jewel center of interest is the eye within the eye
17.) Write in recollection and amazement for yrself
18.) Work from pithy middle eye out, swimming in language sea
19.) Accept loss forever
20.) Believe in the holy contour of life
21.) Struggle to sketch the flow that already exists intact in mind
22.) Don't think of words when you stop but to see picture better
23.) Keep track of every day the date emblazoned in yr morning
24.) No fear or shame in the dignity of your experience, language and knowledge
25.) Write for the world to read and see your exact pictures of it
26.) Bookmovie is the movie in words, the visual American form
27.) In praise of Character in the Bleak inhuman Loneliness
28.) Composing wild, undisciplined, pure, coming in from under, crazier the better
29.) You're a Genius all the time
30.) Writer-Director of Earthly movies Sponsored and Angeled in Heaven

Jack Kerouac, by Jack Addis. Contact him here.

"The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow Roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars."

- Jack Kerouac

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Image appears courtesy of Jack Addis/www.Jack-Addis-Art.blogspot.com

Day Twah

2011-08-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I spent my birthday in Detroit, first at Astoria Pastry Shop and Pegasus in Greektown and then at a Soul Food and Music Festival on the new riverfront walk. I hadn't been down there in a few years and it was a pleasant surprise to see how much the area has been cleaned up and is now taken care of.

Tank: BDG, Skirt: American Apparel, Headband:99 Cent Store, Sunglasses: Vintage,

Purse: Thrift, Leopard Cardi: Thrift, Saddle-Style Shoes: Wasteland Melrose

I received the coolest old fashioned 35mm camera with its original strap and case and a cool new paperweight for my desk (a la The Curious Pebble Project).

A few days ago I ordered moussaka at an unfamiliar Mediterranean restaurant in LA. What a stupid mistake - for there is absolutely nothing as good as real Greek moussaka, pastitsio or spanakopita. A flaming saganaki appetizer and honey-drenched baklava for dessert complete the perfect birthday meal.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

Basket of Berry

2011-08-02T23:01:00.000-07:00

Burning asphalt and smog has been replaced by lightening bugs and wildflowers. I love living right where all the action is, but sometimes a break is along overdue - especially during the heat of summer. I am so happy to finally be surrounded by all things nature.

Over the past few days, some of the best moments to be had happened without my camera around. Yet, I always find a way to have my Blackberry on me at all times. Thus the inspiration behind this [soon to be] recurring post: simple moments captured by a simple camera - the one on my Blackberry!

From too tiny airline seats, to freshly picked strawberries, a new kitten and fields of daisies, I think the camera actually did a nice job of capturing the moment. Take that, i-Phone!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

Love Sticks, Sweat Drips

2011-07-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

I have had a recurring fantasy the past few weeks. In it, my gas-guzzling SUV vanishes into thin air and I am bestowed a lovely mint green Vespa scooter as a replacement. I zip between cars in traffic and it never takes me longer than ten minutes to get anywhere. Since this is all taking place in my head, there may or may not be a sidecar and a tiny helmet for my Vespa-loving cat. We also fight crime through dance-offs with our enemies. But that's off topic.

Reducing your carbon footprint, obtaining a motorcycle license and saving on car payments, gas and commute time are all great reasons to trade in your car for a Vespa if you live in a city. Not to mention how cute you'll look!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of Scooterlounge.com, Vogue Nippon/Mario Sorrenti, ChloeVanParis.blogspot.com, blog.yanidel.com, flowershopstories.blogspot.com, The Sartorialist

Like George Michael

2011-07-05T23:51:00.000-07:00

No, not like that. I'm talking about when he sang "Freedom". That song was awesome. Much like 4th of July weekend. I don't know if it's the guaranteed day off at the beach, the grilling, or the fireworks but the 4th of July has always been my favorite holiday. Call me patriotic, I guess.

Candace Evangeline and I explored Sunken City and the cute little forgotten-about beaches along the coast of Rancho Palos Verdes. Peacocks flew, potato salad was made and children threw fireworks at cars from a balcony.

Dress: Derek Heart, Necklace: Aldo, Sunglasses: F21, Sandals (not pictured): Santee Alley

The Sunken City is a very cool place, but I'd avoid it at night. The photos I took there, although heavily edited, really captured the vibe of the place. Wild peacocks roam the residential areas. This one was just sitting on the stairs, and they like to perch any odd spot they can - from deck railings to car roofs. It's an extremely bizarre (yet welcome) sight.

How do you like to celebrate 4th of July if you're in America like me? Or, what's the big summertime holiday in your neck of the woods?

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit + link to site.

Bridesmaids

2011-07-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

The other day the Garage Gypsy and I ran errands in the 'hood. I wanted to test out the chiffon skirt I made by re-purposing the skirt from a horrific old bridesmaids' gown (last seen here). Before the weather turned, it was chilly in the morning and hot by early afternoon so layers were key. I opted to wear a really long tank top and tuck it in rather than hunt for a slip as the skirt is pretty much see-through. I'm not sure about my stance on slips. I get their purpose but at the same time they seem weird and outdated.

This bag is amazing. I use it all the time (as evidenced by its slightly worn appearance), especially on days when I need to lug around my life with me. My Mom surprised me with it when she discovered an old USC sweatshirt in my room and had vision for its true purpose. This is your lesson for the day: if your mother is a designer do not leave bits of fabric (even if they happen to be your clothing) lying around. She will claim them for her own. Of course, sometimes you end up with a great bag like this but other times you'll see someone around town and you're like "Hey, doesn't that resemble my favorite pair of jeans?" Not anymore, friend. Not anymore.

Plaid Jacket: Thrift, Cross Necklace: Baptism gift from my Great Aunt the Tzarina, Ring: F21, Rhinestone Cat Tank: F21, Chiffon Skirt: American Vintage (repurposed), Sweatshirt Bag: SewTrendy, Shoes: Target

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without credit and link to site.

Vintage Beach

2011-06-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

Last week was the summer solstice. It's as if June Gloom knows exactly when to end and thankfully we haven't had a cloudy or semi-rainy day since. While visiting Venice Beach this weekend I found myself dreaming of a glamorous look for this summer. Something straight out of 50's Italian cinema, mixed with a bit of la belle epoque.

Here are my current beach essentials...

1.) Straw Hat, H&M, $13

2.) Tom Ford 'Nikita' sunglasses, Neiman Marcus, $360

3.) Norma Kamali Bikini Separates, Net-A-Porter, $175 each

4.) Red Valentino Bow-Trimmed Straw Tote, Saks Fifth Avenue, $395

Good Morning Starshine

2011-06-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

When it comes to hair - I've tried it all. Long, short, straight, curly, black, blonde, red and purple. I've tried wigs and extensions. Sprays and serums. Horse and human. I love my Chi straightener, but sometimes I want to go au naturel without feeling self conscious. Curly hair is beautiful but for the longest time I thought I was a freak for disliking my own natural wave. I'm pretty sure it grew to loathing when merely brushing would invoke hours of pain and tears in my pre-Johnson & Johnson No More Tangles childhood. A recent viewing of Chris Rock's documentary "Good Hair" and a slew of recent articles has enlightened me to the fact that this deep-rooted prejudice actually isn't so uncommon.

With the recent ruling that formaldehyde is a carcinogen (it's used in Brazillian blowouts), the pursuit of straight hair has gone from annoying obsession to health-endangering habit.

I stopped dyeing my hair when I was twenty and I've fallen in love with all of the curls and kinks that make curly-haired girls unique. Here is a small list of my favorite products for healthily managing your curls.

- Bumble and Bumble surf spray. A couple quick spritzes post-swim or on a humid day will control frizz and maintain a sporty beachy look. Surf spray works great when you find yourself without a brush and need a quick way to tame.

- Jessicurl Rockin' Ringlets. A lightweight alternative to gross, crunchy hair gel this all-over natural treatment works with your curls instead of against them. My favorite scent is lavender, but all 3 are great.

- Organix Coconut Oil Anti-Breakage Serum. This leave-in serum is great to put on the ends of hair post-wash, and touch lightly throughout the rest of your head for all-over smoothness (although be careful not to overuse and get a greasy look). It smells great, is easy to find and budget-friendly. I use this nearly everyday - my absolute favorite!

- Redken Butter Treat. This leave-in creme is a godsend for deeply unruly hair. It smooths out without working against your natural curls and creates a bouncy, shiny and healthy look as soon as your hair dries. I like to use this one when I forgo the use of the blowdryer. Make sure to apply after brushing your hair.

- Trader Joes Nourish Spa. This detangler is widely considered by curly haired afficiandos to be the best on the market. It packs a double punch by being good for your wallet as well at around only $3 per bottle. Unfortunately it is not available online, but it is definitely worth a special trip to TJ's.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Video courtesy of HBO films, photos courtesy of Italian Vogue by Steven Meisel and American Vogue.

The Roses.

2011-06-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

This morning I realized I've been using my home as a changing and nap room for the past seven days. Sometimes you're moving so fast you forget to stop and take appreciation of the little things. You're flying along for so long that you don't even realize you've turned into a robot.

Here are a few images spied throughout the week that have served as much-needed creative inspiration.

Bright colors, spring traditions and reminders of youth.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of: jak and jil blog, Flickr user ishmatt, aldo, filmreference.com, Flickr user ~~christine~~, littlefille.com, jalouse magazine via fashion gone rogue, the glamouri, afrazier.blogspot.com, Flickr user Hachimaki, Elle Greece via Fashion Gone Rogue, Tory Burch Resort 2011, Numero Magazine via Fashion Gone Rogue..

Marant-abe

2011-06-08T11:11:00.000-07:00

Like everybody else, I'm completely in love with Isabel Marant's latest collection. Ms. Marant has said her spring collection was inspired by California and now Californians are inspired by her. How meta. While hunting Melrose the other weekend slash procrastinating on work, I stumbled upon this part-Angoura sweater at SLOW. It reminds me of the tan sweater/pink shorts look at Marant. I knew my trusty yellow tie-dyed shorts that I scavenged from the children's department would be perfect in completing my "tribute" (aka knockoff).

Although it was a little hot this day, a friend and I rode bikes quite a distance to track down some real soft serve ice cream (shockingly hard to find among the fro-yo enthusiatic LA) and the shorts/sweater/flat boots combo actually turned out to be perfect.

Sweater: Vintage (SLOW), Undershirt: Hanes, Shorts: Kohl's, Boots: Santee Alley, Purse: Unknown (gift), Ring: Random Hooker Store on Hollywood Blvd., Bracelets: Various

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit of site.

The Glass of Fashion

2011-06-03T23:36:00.000-07:00

The Garage Gypsy and I took these photos awhile back - I discovered this bridge up in the hills near my house when I randomly decided to take a different way home one night. Named The Shakespere Bridge, it was built in the 1920's and is kind of run down and overgrown. Its wonky style makes it charming. The bridge connects two hills together and sits over a school and some other houses. I love stumbling upon awesome things hidden right underneath your nose!

When we were taking these pictures, a shifty-looking pedestrian offered to close down the bridge for us and identified himself as a retired detective. The Garage Gypsy and I declined, but the guy insisted on showing us his badge (which my friend thinks was real, but I disagree and think it was just a good fake) and telling us about his plans for the afternoon before offering two more times to close down the bridge and finally leaving. Oh, L.A....why are you always such a creepy uncle?

Jacket: Joujou, Dress: Vintage (Wasteland), Booties: Alice + Olivia for Payless, Watch: Chanel, Bracelets: Various

I scored this dress about three years ago at Wasteland. It remains one of my all-time favorites. The bright orange color and thick polyester-ish (but not itchy!) fabric make it super versatile. I've worn it everywhere from brunch (with ballet flats), to job interviews (with heels and a loose blazer), to a surprise 30th birthday party for one of my friends (with bright purple tights and gold wedges).

Now, get thee to a nunn'ry! And by "nunn'ry" I obviously mean "your local thrift or vintage store".

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and link to/credit of site. Photo credit: Natasha K aka The Garage Gypsy

Memorial Day Memorium

2011-05-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

I had a grand plan to do a clever post today featuring the first roll of film I shot with my Canon AE-1 from last summer (Get it - memories? See what I tried to do there!) but apparently I exposed all the film to light while trying to remove it and all of the shots were ruined. Urgh - learning new things.

Meanwhile, I have been trolling Flickr and staring at other peoples' AE-1 photos with envy. Here are some of my favorite shots I discovered, currently serving as inspiration.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of Flickr users: fajaryayat, mujerísima, Andy Ip …,caitlynreid, Biankah, cobble32, foddokross, April, henebry, Rick Nunn, ◢syka◣, srhpthr, kostyasticky, ithoughtitclassic, Julia Roven, Frederik Vandewalle

The Red Shoes

2011-05-23T23:55:00.000-07:00

I watched The Red Shoes last weekend and I'm completely in love with the surrealistic elements in the film, the technique exhibited by the dancers, and the gorgeous colors.

I don't want to get into a film analysis (I'd be chattering on for days), but I would like to point out the obvious. Aside from being visually stunning, The Red Shoes offers many sartorial inspirations.

The use of flowers, bows, flowing fabrics and pastels to convey childlike innocence in the film also happen to be huge trends for this spring/summer. I love these flower wreath headbands from DanielleLondon on Etsy; they'd make an adorable addition to any poolside getup. This beaded ivory ribbon tie recalls the headpiece Vicky wears during Swan Lake and could pull double duty for day or night. This mint green vintage number that looks like the outfits she wears before becoming a prima ballerina would be perfect for summertime barbeque's.

Lastly: the Rodate exhibit at MOCA Pacific Design Center. Rodarte: States of Matter features some of the costumes from Black Swan (based partly on The Red Shoes), and is on until June 5th. I'm such a huge fan of their work and vision, and so excited to see their beautiful craftsmanship up close.

Rodarte: States of Matter from MOCA on Vimeo.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

The Red Shoes images courtesy of Criterion via: opalfilmsseen.blogspot.com, gargyle.com, the500club.com, oldhollywood.tumblr.com. All Rodarte photos by Autumn de Wilde, courtesy of Moca.org

"Some people never go crazy."

2011-05-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

"...What truly horrible lives they must lead." - Charles Bukowski.

I have definitely been experiencing the crazy over the last few weeks, but I haven't forgotten about you! I promise to have some great posts for you next week so please keep checking in! Thanks guys!

In the meantime, let's keep in touch on Twitter. Follow me! https://twitter.com/GoldenGirlOlive

I have this photo of Ernest Hemingway over my desk at home, along with another one of a machine gun and a hand grenade. It's very inspiring. Every time I'm procrastinating on work (a.k.a. every time I sit down at my desk), I look up at the photos and think to myself, "Although I have never used those weapons, looking at their picture makes me feel badass." Then I think, "What would E. Hem do right now?" So I get fall down drunk and adopt cats with birth defects. It hasn't exactly been working out as I'd planned. Hopefully being a cat freak that likes wine and vintage typewriters is some sort of prerequisite to being a great writer, because if so I happen to be halfway there. So are most of the moms in the O.C., but no matter.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of: http://labookie.com, http://cindyroehrich.com/

Run/Walk

2011-05-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the Revlon Run/Walk for Women through downtown Los Angeles, a 5K to raise funds for and awareness of womens' cancer.

Despite getting lost about eighteen times Candace Evangeline and I finally found our way and joined the crowd through the USC campus.

It's always so inspirational to see everyone come out and support loved ones and survivors. Donating or participating helps so many great cancer-fighting organizations, such as Gilda Radner Hereditary Cancer Detection Program, the Greater Los Angeles Cancer Support Community, and Providence Saint Joseph Foundation (among many others.) You can donate to the walk year-round here. This is close to my heart so I hope it inspires others to help out any way that they can. Whether it's fundraising for a similar event in your own city, or volunteering to lead a yoga class for patients and their children at a local hospital, contributing to this cause in any small way makes a big difference.

Taking care of your health is so important. Get mammograms, pap smears and biopsies. Encourage your friends and family members to do the same. Here are some more great tips for prevention and early detection. If you're struggling and think you can't afford these services, don't forget that Planned Parenthood provides them for free or reduced rate to low income households. No excuses!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit of site.

Easter Sunday

2011-05-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

This post is delayed a week because of the ever-present "working a lot lately at a job that pays me" reason/excuse.

Whenever I see palms and purple I'm reminded of Easter, one of my favorite holidays. When I was little we'd have 2 Easters - Russian and traditional. With enough food to feed a small country and a five hour Church Service entirely in Russian prior to lunch. Nowadays it's less hoopla but I still love making brunch with friends and putting together egg hunts and of course getting a new dress. This year was more last-minute than usual but remained a fun feast.

Menu: Salmon with Lemon-Dill Dressing, Redskin potatoes tossed with olive oil and white mushrooms, Pan Roasted Brussel Sprouts, Deviled Eggs, Guacamole (it is California, after all) and Funfetti/Cream Cheese Frosting/White Chocolate Cake Balls for dessert. My original plan to make pashka went out the window when I realized it takes 3 days to make. I'll leave that one to my Mom, I guess.

For Easter I like to stick with brights or pastels that invoke Springtime.

Beaded Headband: SewTrendy on Etsy, Various Bracelets: UO, Turquoise Ring: Vintage, Cardi: Buffalo Exchange, Dress: Unknown (gift from Mom), Leather w/ Wood-bottom boots: NJCW Fairfax Store

What are your favorite Easter traditions? Or if you didn't celebrate the holiday, what did you do?

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

P.S. - VisforOlive has joined the 21st century! Follow me on Twitter!

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit of site.

Will The Real Rachel Berry Please Stand Up?

2011-04-30T21:40:00.000-07:00

I'm so tardy to the Glee Party. I'd watched clips of the Lady Gaga, Madonna and Britney episodes but had never really gotten into the show until recently, when I started Season One on Netflix. I didn't think I would like it as much as I do. It's so great in the way that it promotes self-love and acceptance of others. I cried a little when Kurt came out to his Dad (don't judge). And Sue Sylvester rivals Liz Lemon in the epic one-liner department. Pausing the show until I finish laughing is often necessary.

But of all the characters, I feel a special bond with Rachel Berry. Poor Rachel. All she wants to do is bust out of her small town and everyone just hates on her. She can't help it that her perfectionism is annoying to everyone around her (yes she can). She just loves showtunes! Okay, so, she basically equals Olive: The High School Years and our wardrobes are eerily similar.

To tell the difference, you'll just have to ask each of us to sing. I had to send a Blackberry picture to a Glee-loving friend yesterday with the caption "Rachel Berry Goes to Work".

To dress like Rachel/Olive, there are a few basic rules. Bright colors and layering is key. No button-down shirts unless you have a sweatervest to go over them or high waisted shorts to tuck it in. Cardigans? One is needed in every color. Shorts and skirts must always be worn with bright tights or knee socks. Occassionally ruffle bobby socks can make an appearance. Jewelry is minimal. While everything is cohesive, the ensemble rarely actually matches.

The most important rule to remember? Grape really is the best Slushee flavor.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Rachel Berry Photos courtesy of Luckymag.com, 2nd photo property of VisforOlive. Do not resuse without permission and/or credit of site.

Coachella 2011

2011-04-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

After deciding to pass on Coachella this year due to a less than stellar line-up, I wasn't expecting to be so sad the weekend of the actual concert. Leave it to my awesome friends to make it happen the day of. Though I'm a planner and normally find it anxiety-inducing to be spontaneous, when you have fun loving day trippers by your side, who could really say no? Even I'm not that much of a curmudgeon.

The Glamourai noted that sometimes it's better to keep some memories for yourself and I wholeheartedly agree. When you're at an event like Coachella, it's much better to relax and enjoy the music and the scene rather than be snapping pictures every moment and worrying about what you're wearing. Thus, my lack of contribution to this particular photo essay. Plus, if I read one more blog post on "SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL CHIC LIKE OMGEEEZZZ!!!! HEY GUYZ WEAR A MAXI DRESS!!!" I will really end it. Just. Stop. Music festivals are no longer Woodstock, and they never will be no matter how many floppy hats you bring along. They are a place for yuppies to go and listen to music in nature for a weekend at an extremely high price. The sooner we can all accept this the better. It doesn't make them any less fun! Although I have to admit the security this year was a bit much - I definitely missed the old hippies that obviously snuck in pass free.

Coachella 2011 Photo Essay:

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos taken by Natasha K and Monica Sherer. DO NOT reuse without permission. Please link and/or credit site.

Dress Hunt

2011-04-20T23:32:00.000-07:00

Easter reminds most normal people of egg hunts, chocolate bunnies and ham. But for me Easter always brings back a flood of sartorial memories. When I was little, my grandma would have matching, super frilly dresses custom made for my sister and I and my mom would help us make elaborate Easter bonnets with lace and silk flowers. Nevermind that we were literally the only kids dressed up for the egg hunt, I took delight in these customs and I keep the tradition alive to this day. Come Easter Sunday, I'm in a fancy new dress with co-ordinating hat and scarfing as much pashka as humanly possible. Mmmm, pashka.

Whether you're like me and you prefer a more traditional Easter dress, or you like to look sharp but not overly girly, there are several great options out there for your style this Sunday. Here are a few from each side of the fence:

1.) Bandeau Printed Dress, Debenhams.com, $81
2.) Gathered Bust Dress, Nina Ricci, $1,790
3.) Mimosa Print Dress, D&G, $1,526.25
4.) Cotton Rose Dress, Suzannah.com, $570

5.) Boho Dress, AE, $20
6.) Lace Dress, Elle Shop, $330
7.) Tropical Whip Short Dress, Betsey Johnson, $118
8.) Printed Sun Dress, Delia*s, $44.50

Have a Happy Easter and when the little kids at your event start getting a sugar high, don't forget that a great trick is to casually slide a bunch of jellybeans and Cadbury Eggs into the bottom of your purse. As long as they're encased in plastic egg containers, the inside of your purse will remain safe, the children will pass out within twenty minutes, and you'll double your candy stash! Triple win!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All images courtesy of linked websites

Current Wishful Drinking: Azzedine Alia Platforms

2011-04-13T00:13:00.000-07:00

Just when you think the perfect disco shoe couldn't possibly be topped (and I know that is what all of you spend your free time daydreaming about: disco shoes of Gucci past. No, just me? Okay then.), something like this gorgeous little number from Azzedine Alia arrives on your doorstep.

And by arrive on your doorstep, I of course mean: pop up on your Polyvore page.

While I often dream of dancing the night away to 70's hits in a flowy, sparkly dress rarely do my fantasy shoes involve something as versatile as these. Think about all of use you could get out of them - they'd go great with tap pants, high-waisted trousers, wide-leg jeans and wrap dresses. Yes, every single thing I just decribed is disco-era dressing and most of you probably aren't planning on walking through a time warp anytime soon but I might just consider it in exchange for a pair of these. At this price I'd have to figure out a way to not only wear them with everything I own, but live in them too.

Azzedine Alia Platform Shoes at Farfetch.com, $1,145.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Image courtesy of Farfetch.com

Matumbo Goldberg

2011-04-09T22:24:00.000-07:00

Friday night in downtown Los Angeles. Well, the touristy part of it anyway. The surrounding area probably has less multicolored outdoor lightshows and more guns.

Leather jacket: Bebe, Dress: Vintage from Fairfax Flea Market, Earrings: Santee Alley, Ring: Gift from my Great-Aunt the Tzarina, Cross-body Purse: Thrifted, Tights: Target, Boots: Candies

Dance Dance Revolution remains an impossible feat for me. If you couldn't tell by the laughing photobomb and my very confused expression, I got a score of less than 1%. This is what happens if you don't allow your child to play video games growing up: a lifetime of embarassingly low scores and pointing-slash-laughing in party-type situations.

These pictures are from the wrap party last night for Matumbo Goldberg at ESPNZone. The web series premieres on ComedyCentral.com on Tuesday, April 12th - make sure you tune in! It is soo funny!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

A Day in the Life

2011-04-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

I’m always so fascinated by “picture an hour” or “day in the life” posts on other blogs. PinkBow springs to mind, with her beautiful photos, and a recent issue of GOOP, showcasing the hectic lives of very successful women.

I thought this day is slightly more interesting than a typical work day which would read something like: 6AM – Gym, 8AM-8PM – Work. Meetings, phone calls. People yelling. People laughing. Lots of coffee. 9-9:30PM – Hunt for parking. 9:35PM – Get home. Make pasta for dinner. Snuggle with Clementine and read notes from day. Attempt to write. 1AM - Fall asleep. Possibly on couch in clothes.

See what I mean? Not a whole lot of interesting photo ops there. Not to mention I’d probably get fired if I started waving a camera in anybody’s face at work.

So here is my super thrilling Sunday, March 27^th:

7AM: Attempt to sleep in, but Clementine and any hint of daylight won’t let me rest past about 7:30.

It’s cold and I don’t want to leave my cozy bed yet so I read more of Lolita, which I just started (do not judge The Shunning having a place among my current reads. You should assume all future questionable literature choices are work related. Especially if you ever see Jodi Picoult up there).

8:15AM: Get dressed. Cold air and obsessive Skins watching has dictated that I dress as an Effy-Cassie hybrid today. Scottish Wool Sweater: Vintage (Men's), Skirt: J.Crew, Knee-socks: 99 Cent Store, Booties: Santee Alley.

8:30AM: Off to the gym.

9:30AM: Body Factory for my favorite protein shake – the P, B & J (Peanut butter, Banana and Blueberry – not sure where the J comes into play). Normally I’m not a fan of protein shakes (they make me feel like a body builder), but I don’t think I’ll have time to eat a healthy lunch and they’re a great meal replacement if you’re in a time crunch.

10AM: Drop off laptop to be repaired. A frustrating experience. I hate Best Buy. Next time I’m going Apple all the way.

11:30AM: Return home and attempt to get some writing done. The sketches I’m working on now will be up on Heatherbrained.com in a few months!

2:45PM: As this Spring is unusually chilly, I decide to peruse my local thrift in search of some baggy sweaters and flowy skirts (my new favorite silhouette).

3:30PM: Success! I leave with 2 wool sweaters and a horrid bridesmaid dress I plan on chopping up and converting into something cute.

4PM: Time to make a surprise blueberry crumble!

4:30PM: While waiting for the crumble to bake, I watch Blue Valentine. What an amazing film.

5PM: Crumble is done! (ignore my sadface - it is the result of Blue Valentine)

5:30PM: Done cooling and soo yummy! This cheers me up as I finish the movie.

6PM: Now that I am significantly tired from my lazy day, it’s time to pop in another DVD. Never Let Me Go arrived from Netflix.

8PM: Wow. I watched two of the most depressing films today.

8:05PM: Tea time. Peppermint with honey is my favorite.

8:10PM: More reading. The latest script and my new issue of Elle, which just arrived.

11PM: Can’t believe I’m going to bed so early but I try to get sleep wherever I can these days!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All Photos Property of VisforOlive. Please do not reuse without permission/credit of site.

Blueberry Nights

2011-03-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't been doing a very good job of keeping up with posts lately. Mostly because I've been working extremely hard and haven't had time to peruse the internet or the city for anything particularly interesting. On my day off this weekend, it was a torrential downpour so I stayed inside making ginger-blueberry muffins and watching Skins (BBC version). Fascinating, I know. The muffins got burned because my old fashioned stove is about 50 degrees hotter than what the dial says. Thus, I have no pictures to share with you.

However! You should still try the Blueberry muffin recipe (just add one tablespoon fresh, grated ginger and one-half teaspoon pure vanilla extract). The batter was delicious and I'm sure the muffins are too when cooked properly.

I thought Southern California was supposed to be warm and sunny? It's fun to break out your cheeky umbrella and rainhat with the bow once in awhile but I'm sick of doing massive FAIL rainy day activities.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Photos courtesy of Chiot's Run, SundayNiteDinner, In Our Nature, Creature Comforts on Flickr

This is the story of a Charming Girl

2011-03-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this lovely video on a blog I adore Design is Mine. 'Seven Henrietta Street' from Kinga Burza for Kate Spade New York.

This video is basically how I imagine my entire life would be summed up in song and moving images. Right down to the fact that I have recently started to learn to play the ukelele, have been known to get buried under piles of books, and enjoy talking on old fashioned phones (even though I don't have a landline so it's just for show). The song is "I Will Never Love You More" by Soko. It reminds me of The Moldy Peaches.

I really want that hot pink half-circle thing chair she's sitting in towards the end in my living room. Kate Spade has me all kinds of excited for accessories, literature, and old-timey items:

1.) Penguin Hardcover Classics, $20

2.) Crystal Kaleidoscope Necklace, $295

3.) Double Bow Hinged Bangle, $78

4.) Women for Women Large Beaded Bracelet, $45

5.) Daisy Chain Earrings, $75

6.) Great Expectations Book Clutch, $325

7.) i-Phone 4 Rotary Dial Phone Cover, $35

8.) Vintage Rotary Dial Phone, $56

9.) The Great Gatsby Kindle Cover, $70

Your Golden Girl,

Olive
All images and video courtesy of Kate Spade. Do not reuse without credit/permission.

Art School Confidential

2011-03-06T15:06:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, one of my good friends had an art show at Playhouse in Hollywood. Playhouse is pretty much your typical cheesy Hollywood scene, overrun by douchebags and $18 cocktails, but last Thursday from 8-10PM the venue was turned into an art/music/fashion house, with featured artists like Atom's Nightmare upstairs and one of my favorite L.A. acts Ultra Violet Sound performing on the stage downstairs. So, the douchebaggery was kept outside at least until the show was over and the freaky electro-art kids got to take over for a few hours.

I'm so proud of Atom for overcoming all he has in life to make this amazing art. If you get a chance, you should definitely head over to the Atom's Nightmare website and check out his portfolio. I own a print of Nightmare Material and get endless compliments on it by pretty much everyone that enters my house.

And to keep it relevant, here's what I wore:

Clockwise from left:

1.) Faux Fur Vest, Unknown

2.) Motorcycle Boots, Santee Alley

3.) Green Velour Cross-Body Hobo, SewTrendy

4.) Opaque Black Tights, Target

5.) Hot Pants, Procured from some random hooker store on Hollywood Boulevard 3 years ago

6.) Gold Glitter Skinny Belt, F21

7.) Oversized Flannel, Thrifted

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive, do not reuse without permission and/or credit of site. All art pictured property of artist. Do not reuse without their written permission.

London Fog

2011-02-25T23:45:00.000-08:00

London has been on my mind the past few days. Maybe it's all those papparazzi shots of Kate Middleton that have been tearing up the internets lately, or the so-freezing-cold-it's-practically-snow-rain that ruined my hair and make up at lunch hour today, or maybe a combination of both, plus my obsession with bundling up.

Whatever it is, images of British counterculture icons like Twiggy have been repeating themselves in my head, while The Rolling Stones play on loop. Yeah, my head is a weird place, but what I'm trying to say is that 1960's London was awesome. So many great things were happening there culturally and the fashion coming out of there really reflected that.

Anywho! The aforementioned lunchtime plight had me longing for Wellies and a long, warm jacket. I even went so far as to dig around my trunk for a rogue knit cap to no avail. If I could've had the following items, my ears and toes would've been much happier!

Clockwise from top left:

1.) I heart rain Umbrella, $16
2.) Grey Cropped Sweater, Woolrich, $329
3.) Yellow Wool Beret, People Tree, $13
4.) Cotton Poplin Dress, Miu Miu, $1,005
5.) Ribbon Knee Socks, TopShop, $14
6.) Green Wellies, Hunter Wellington, $125
7.) "Be With Me" Plaid Coat, ShopRuche, $64

I was planning on hiking the Hollywood sign this weekend but it looks like all I'll be doing is catching up on reading and screaming at the TV in outrage come Sunday night. Do you have any favorite rainy day activities?

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Photos courtesy of abudhabinomads.typepad.com, nibsblog.wordpress.com, strictlyforpleasure.wordpress.com, rollingsite.blogspot.com, and all previously linked online stores.

Wednesday Happy Days

2011-02-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

I am officially pimping my own Lookbook account now. I'm just upset because these shoes are adorable and they're getting no hype over there! Make sure you HYPE this look for me, dear loyal reader(s)! I heart fashion micro blogging so much.

I found these amazing little quasi-saddle shoes at Wasteland a couple weeks ago. They're basically jazz booties and are super comfortable. These two factors combined makes them ideal dancing shoes. Whenever I slip them on I feel like busting a pirouette, no matter the location. But I fear I will end up like Amy Winehouse in Brazil, so I refrain.

I guess I just wanted to brag about my new shoes.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

#screwyouValentine'sDay

2011-02-12T09:54:00.000-08:00

Before I head out for the day, I wanted to share some articles I wrote for the February issue of UL Magazine. They're not fashion or style related, but they are Valentine's Day related, especially if you live in the LA area and are a terrible planner and still pondering what romantical adventure you and your special somebody (or not-so-special-somebody-that-you-drunk-dialed-so-you-won't-be-alone-on-this-stupid-greeting-card-holiday) should be doing this weekend.

I'm not a huge fan of Valentine's Day in the traditional sense. I think if you love someone you don't need an excuse to have a nice dinner together and get each other presents. I mean, Valentine's Day is pretty unromantic if you go the traditional route and have dinner at a fancy restaurant with 800 other couples making out around you and then give each other big stupid cards that you throw out 2 weeks later.

BUT I'm not completely against any reason to give me flowers and candy. I think there are fun ways to celebrate the love holiday without being a hot cheeseball mess and the articles I wrote highlight some of the alternative options for LA couples: trapeze at the Santa Monica Pier, cheap dates, and a hot new cabaret show in Hollywood. Even if you don't live in LA, maybe these will give you some ideas of celebrating Valentine's Day in a unique way in your own hometown.

Happy Valemtime's!

Olive

P.S. - The title of this post is a hilarious twitter hashtag that Jimmy Fallon started, detailing all of the ridiculousness of a traditonal Valentine's celebration.

Current Wishful Drinking: Hermes Agenda

2011-02-08T22:22:00.000-08:00

One of my biggest goals for this year is to be more organzied. Sidenote: "goals" sounds much less lame than "resolutions", don't you think? I pretty much automatically expect a resolution to fail, I guess because I associate it with all those people that crowd the cardio machines at the gym for the month of January.

Despite the impression you may have gotten from my last post, I am making valiant efforts to become more organized this year. In 2011 my most major task so far has been cleaning out and re-organzing my closet. It now looks less like a pile of laundry and abandoned shoes and more like an adorable little dressing room!

I also started making a lot of small changes in the everyday to make things run more smoothly: I now make my bed every morning, set out my clothes the night before, respond to emails as they come instead of letting them pile up and cause stress, keep just 2 books and 2 scripts on my bedside table at any given time (down from the 9,000 of each it was before) and store the "to read" materials neatly on a desk shelf. I've even been keeping up with mundane household chores like a regular June Cleever! 18-year-old me didn't even know where the trash recepticle was in her building and now I have a sparklingly clean apartment! (Don't be too grossed out, I didn't live in a Hoarders-style garbage cave, I just pawned all household chores off onto my roommates. Much better.)

However, the one area that remains quite scary would be my mess of an overworked day planner.

As life began speeding up my poor little day planner just could not handle it. Daily "To-Do" lists spilled over multiple entries, the single pocket in the back was not enough to fill my daily magazine tears, work papers, parking tickets (damn you! You are always messing my organization up!) and the huge pile of trash that is LA Small Business Tax and Car Registration documents (you can read all about the-migraine-that-won't-go-away here).

I'm on the market for a classy, grown-up day planner. I don't want anything electronic. I don't want anything black. I don't want anything tiny. Kate Spade had some adorable options over the holidays, but they look too similar to 2010's planner.

No, the dream has become THIS gorgeous beacon of organization and style, from Hermes. Completed fully by THIS and THESE. Oh, Hermes. How I love you because you hold on so tightly to being an old-school handmade luxury goods company. Everything made by you is beautiful and gorgeous and meant to be passed down for years and years. And oh, how I cannot afford you due to the very reason why I love you so much. It's like Romeo & Juliet without the suicide and feuding families. So really, it's nothing like Romeo & Juliet but just go with it I'm on a roll.

The oversized interior pockets help keep my giant piles of papers to an organized minimum. The bright purple calfskin and contrasting orange page-marker are cheerful colors that would give me another reason to smile as I make "To Do" lists (as if you really need a reason to smile while making lists!). The best part about this is that Hermes is so high end they don't call it a "day planner". It's an agenda. A "day planner" is something with a floral motif your mom stuffed coupons in and used to keep track of when she had to pick your ungrateful ass up from ballet and clarinet practice. An "agenda" is something a high society lady owns and uses a fountain pen to write down the times of her luncheons and philanthropic committee meetings.

I am neither of those things, but I would like an Hermes Agenda so I can keep track of when I need to get coffee with my friends or when it's a new episode of 30 Rock.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Bill My Chiropractor

2011-02-02T01:30:00.000-08:00

There have been a couple articles online the past few days detailing the contents of famous purses, and the need a lot of women have for schlepping so much shit around with them all the damn time. My favorite was by far the story detailing Janis Joplin's purse contents over at The Hairpin. It earns favorite status due to a combination of my love for Janis, my obsession with obtaining a bag similar to the one she's holding in the accompanying photo (which if memory serves me right, looks like she scooped up at a street vendor in South America), and the fact that her purse contents and habit of always losing pretty important things are eerily similar to my little sister.

Amanda Fortini at the New York Times wrote "My Personal Baggage" this week, about her own out-of-control bag schlepping and packing habits. That piece mentions Joan Didion's essay "The White Album", and a helpful bit of information to keep you organized in your moments of spontaneity.

All of this bag-talk got me thinking about the scary no-man's land that is my own purse. I sort of hate the word "purse", though. It reminds me of one of those little pink plastic bags your mom would give you to play with when you were little. You know, the kind that came with make-up and a kid-size pink broom and dustpan so you could feel just like Mom! Oh, how I loved the politically incorrect 80's. "Purse" to me sounds like something a frivolous person carries in case they need to reapply their lipstick in a gold compact mirror. I prefer "bag". It's a suitable term for me as well since I carry huge bags with me at all times that are definitely giving me back problems by the minute. I blame the Olsens.

I recently downsized to a great bag for winter (it's about half the size of my usual, and I'm loving the handles so my poor back can catch a break), and I figured I'd jump on the contents-spill bandwagon and share my mess.

My handmade purse from Sew Trendy on Etsy contains (from top): 1 crumpled Panera Bread receipt (don't judge I earned a free coffee), the best purple owl wallet ever from Urban Outfitters 4 years ago, a shopping/to-do list, pink pepper spray, a tampon, my keycard for work that I attached a superlong pink ribbon to to make it a necklace because I'm always losing it, Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush lip gloss in Cupcake, a travel toothbrush & case, a pen, keys, my eyeglasses for driving, a gift certificate to Blow Dry Bar, Blackberry, a parking ticket, and Mint Rosebud Salve.

For someone as busy as myself, you'd think I'd have to be more organized but unfortunately since I have to be prepared for everything, I just toss it all in and am just glad it's there, forget about organizing the contents. This is actually a pared-down day. I consider all of these essentials. Minus the stupid parking ticket, of course. That is never essential.

What do you need to do your day right?

You Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive, do not reuse without permission/credit of site

Haus of Maus and Vogue

2011-01-23T18:31:00.000-08:00

I just finished editing these photos my sister took over Christmas. The orchard reminds me of being a little kid, and I was also inspired to wear the ears by my polka dotted sweater, like Minnie's...

I have been listening to Madonna's "Celebration" Greatest Hits CD after discovering that the dance studio right down the street from my house teaches VOGUE DANCING. Sign me up! Okay, I was listening to the CD all day anyway, long before I found out about the dance class. In fact, my neighbors probably want to kill me because I become obsessed with one or two songs on an album and I just keep playing Vogue and Revolver on repeat.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Minnie Mouse Ears: Disneyland, Black Dress:F21, Leggings: Vera Wang, Cardi: JCrew, Boots: Candie's, Ring + Cross Necklace: Gifts from Moo, Faux fur Handwarmer: SewTrendy on Etsy

All photos Property of VisforOlive, do not use without permission/site credit. All videos via YouTube, property of WB Records.

Sicky Chicky

2011-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a traumatizing one, to say the least. After a half day on Friday, I was excited to be basking in my first taste of corporate benefits AKA the 3.5-dayweekend due to a national holiday. However, while innocently running errands on Saturday morning, I was hit in a seriously scary car accident. I literally flew through the air inside of my vehicle, only to be saved by my seatbelt and the center console. Thankfully, no one was injured.

Determined to make something nice happen over the weekend, I headed for the beach. Lying on the beach in your bikini in nice-but-not-super-hot weather = terrible plan if you have a slight head cold. While watching the Golden Globes last night, my eyes started feeling puffy and are now requiring the ultra embarassing help of a refridgerated eye mask to take down the massive swelling. Also, I cannot hear and my chest feels simultaneously like its on fire and full of ice crystals.

So, all around a pretty crap weekend and not at all like I pictured corporate goons spending those paid national holidays. The upside is that I've been able to dedicate a large chunk of time to consuming a lot of tea and reading my 2 new Martha Stewart cookbooks and I think tomorrow I may attempt to cure myself with this old fashioned chicken noodle soup recipe. While I usually vom at the mere thought of eating poultry, I can make an exception for Matzo and CNS. I am a big believer in the healing powers of chicken noodle soup. I always feel much better after a big bowl especially when it's homemade.

Olive's "Best of" Being Sick:

1.) Lying in bed all day in pajamas.

2.) Watching bad TV and not being ashamed because you have the "legit" excuse that your head hurts too much to concentrate on anything of substance. (Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Food Network, Gossip Girl, and Pretty Little Liars have been on all day)

3.) Being able to eat in bed.

4.) Having people offer to do things for you that would normally get you called a high maintenance bitch if you asked any other day. (Like making your food and bringing it to you in bed, fluffing pillows, giving you a massage, and moving around your furniture...ok, that last one is a stretch but it actually has worked.)

5.) For the first 3 days after your recovery, everyone wants to know what your "new diet secret" is. Most people don't think responding with "Soup, tea, and barfing!" is very funny, but screw them! These are your 3 days to shine, be as brutally honest as you'd like.

6.) Tea with extra honey.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of mommygoggles.com, marthastewart.com, and dallasnews.com.

7 Layer Dip

2011-01-13T13:23:00.000-08:00

As I have mentioned, one of my favorite things about being a temporary cold-weather inhabitant is the fact that I get to use all of my amazing winter clothes that are sadly underused about 90% of the year, due to my being a permanant SoCal resident.

Before I visit my familial unit in the Great White North, I mentally pack my suitcase. OCD freak you may call me, but I'm always the most cozily bundled up Olive around. Layering for the warm blooded girl has become second nature to me, but I've learned through trial and error. Hopefully with these tips you can avoid making some of the very painful (READ: FREEZING ASS COLD) mistakes that I have.

You may think the most important thing you can wear to combat the cold is a parka. You are wrong. If you say Uggs I will hunt you down and slap you. It is, in fact, socks. Yes, those things that most Southern California girls own maybe two pairs of, in a dressy fabric. Before venturing to the snow, you must have proper footwear, beginning with socks. Bring a minimum of 3 pairs of warm socks per day. You will need to wear two pairs at once while participating in outdoor activities, and a third pair to change into once you return indoors for the night. My favorites are cheap and thick, like cheeseburgers. If, like me, you like to bring lots and lots of socks in case of a sock emergency (it's a real thing) two or three packs of plain white cotton gym socks will work perfectly.

Next up, footwear. Warm, tall, and waterproof. Follow these three rules and you will be golden. Uggs are not any of these things, so stop wearing them as anything but house slippers only your cat sees. Zappos has endless selections of cute, durable cold weather boots. While in the mountains, I embrace being a total lumberjack and love this pair by Northface for $155:

After you have happy feet, the rest is easy:

Long johns underneath to lock in body heat (your boyfriend will hate me, your limbs will thank me). Victoria's Secret has cute options.

Durable Jeans to again, lock in body heat, tuck into boots and be unrestricting due to long john addition. I remain obsessed with ubersoft signature Hudson jeans for any occassion.

Chunky Knit Sweater, here something long and neutral with a little wiggle room works best because after a long day in the snow, exchange jeans and long johns for leggings and keep your sweater the same for a stress free quickchange. James Perse, ALICE by Temperly, and Malene Birger make perfect choices.

Warm Gloves, Scarf and Hat, pretty self explanatory folks. Try to keep your hands as warm as your feet and your head covered. My favorite hat is big, vintage Russian-style fur hat. I'd be incredibly against it if it weren't so damn warm. Modcloth and vintage shops always have a great selection of styles.

Long Parka, preferably at least to your knees. Michael Kors makes great down-feather filled parkas with fabulous detachable hoods that are so warm and basically like wrapping your entire body in a down comforter. But my favorite discovery this holiday season was the beyond affordable and amazing Army/Navy Surplus Store. My sister scored a gorgeous, black Army all-weather coat for Christmas and the thing is so cozy and heavy it'd definitely be a wardrobe staple if I had a practical use for it.

So, in your Socks, Boots, Long Johns, Durable Jeans, Chunky Knit Sweater, Scarf, Hat, Mittens, Long Jacket, I guess you would technically be a 9 layer dip. But an extremely warm 9 layer dip. As always, options are the name of the game and the more you pack the less likely you are to be missing something. I only wish the airlines felt the same way.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of timo_w2s FLICKR, CBatch2002 FLICKR, Zappos, and Net-A-Porter

Minnetoka Paradise

2011-01-09T20:07:00.000-08:00

This holiday break has been sort of like a snow day for grown ups. One of the things I miss most about cold weather and getting snowed in is that it provides you with the perfect excuse to laze around all day drinking tea and coffee, listening to music, watching movies, and reading. The things I wish occupied all of my time but unfortunately usually get pushed to the back burner while I engage in the Rat Race.

I managed to find the time to see nearly all of the awards-season films I was looking forward to (Somewhere has been the biggest let-down, and The King's Speech earns my vote for most surprisingly engaging...if that's a category), read a lot of Harry Potter, drink a lot of coffee and eat a lot of comfort food. I even squeezed in (brief) outdoor encounters. I'm very proud of my non-accomplishments.

A much needed rest, and now back to the Rat Race with more energy to spin around the wheel.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Moccassins: Minnetoka, Cardi: Oscar de LaRenta, Dress: Unknown, Tee: WetSeal, Sweater Tights: Target, Knee Socks: Modcloth, Ring: XMas gift from Moo, Bracelets: various

All photos property of VisforOlive, do not reuse without permission, credit, or link.

Odette/Odile

2010-12-30T21:03:00.000-08:00

I wish I were Blair Waldorf.

On second thought, I wish I were Lily Van Der Woodsen. That crafty bitch got to have the best of both worlds: a ballerina who dated rock stars then parlayed that into inheriting a billion dollar company and after being a crazy megabitch for two decades got everything anyway, ending up with her true love.

Anyway, I'm feeling very B.W. in this NYE option. I saw Black Swan again last night and I'm into looking ballerina-y for the next few days. I usually go with sparkles for my New Year's look, but I'll most likely be stuck in an airport as the clock strikes midnight so I need to go with something that is able transition from airport to party easily. This skirt is actually a faux leather that's super comfy and the black tights are knitted so they're super warm and sort of function as leggings.

If I end up going out, I think I'll keep the sparkles to my hands. I recently stumbled upon this amazing YouTube page, of a U.K. make-up artist that gives fantastic tutorials.

I want to do something like this on my nails tonight. I'm normally not a fan of super crazy nail color, but since it is NYE and I happen to be extremely bored, it may happen.

I'm not going to do a cheesy resolutions list. But I would like to hear about your own NYE plans! Do share.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Cardi: Fever, Faux Fur Scarf: Vintage via SewTrendy on Etsy, Faux Leather Skirt: Mustard Seed, Sweater Tights: Blanco (Espana), Boots: Blanco (Espana), Bracelets: Various, Headband: F21

All photos property of VisforOlive, do not reuse without permission/site credit

Snowpocalypse

2010-12-26T23:28:00.000-08:00

I've returned to The Great White North. So far, my time has been spent sledding, sipping hot coco, eating perogies, watching The Godfather trilogy and reading Harry Potter with my sister (our family has weird traditions).

My favorite part of extreme winter weather is that I finally get to layer and get some use out of all of my big knit sweaters and hats.

I can't wait to share some of my cold weather dressing tips later on this week after I go snowboarding! Stay warm...

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Sequined Beret: F21, Sparkly Gold Sweater: Vintage, Faux Fur Shrug: Thrifted, High-Waisted Shorts: F21, Opaque Tights: Target, Boots: Candie's

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit/link.

I Line 'Em Up to Watch 'Em Fall

2010-12-13T15:21:00.000-08:00

Lester Brathwaite of Fashion Indie askes an interesting question: "Leighton Meester, why aren't you more famous?" , in his piece on the site by the same name. I agree with him...viva Blair!

I can't wait to see "Country Strong", and I love her adventurous sense of fashion. I don't understand why she always ends up on "What Was She Thinking?!" Lists. I think her personal style is probably a bit too HAUTE for US Weekly. Which is actually a good thing, anyway. Ms. Meester is at least intelligent enough to realize she shouldn't look or act like the snippy, perfectly groomed Blair on the red carpet if she ever wants to break away from that role. Positioning herself as a slightly disheveled, haute-couture loving, eccentric singer/actress is a wonderful idea.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

Images courtesy of Fashion Indie, Make-Up Beat, Fashionista.com, JustJared. Video courtesy of LeightonMeesterVevo on YouTube.

Ugly Sweater Party

2010-12-06T17:23:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite holiday memories is wearing hideous Christmas-themed sweaters. People are even having parties over this...

(Just ignore my duckface in the middle photo. Thanks.)

The best place to find ugly sweaters is obviously a local thrift store. I got my shorts at Iguana (they're gigantic and men's, which I fastened with a sparkly gold belt) in Hollywood and the shirt I borrowed from a friend. We used fake Christmas plants (holly and mistletoe) to make our corsage and headband. Decorate yourself with bows intended for presents, add some glitter wherever you can and voila! Instant ugly sweater-party look!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive. Do not reuse without permission and/or credit.

Thanksgiving Weekend....better late than never

2010-12-04T15:29:00.000-08:00

My extreme lack of posts lately has been due to my highly demanding new job that I L-O-V-E but unfortunately cannot give you more details on until everything is said and done. So, instead, a Turkey Day post! Because as I type this, sitting in Starbucks, there is Christmas music playing and I cannot believe that last weekend has already seen me watch 2 parades (one on TV, one in real life), make 1 pie, drink 1 bottle of Rose champagne, wear 1 Pilgrim-inspired outfit, eat meat twice, sample 4 kinds of pumpkin pie, get worn out by 5 rambunctious children, fall asleep at 9PM for the first time since third grade, bake 30 cupcakes, and eat an uncountable number of mashed potatoes.

The week before Thanksgiving is one of my best friends' birthday's, and to celebrate her 30th I made her 30 cupcakes in the same color scheme as her glitter-themed party. And yes, the missing one is because I ate it.

The first thing we did to kick off the holiday season was make this delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie. It was extremely decadant, and I am quite proud of myself for retaining some knowledge from high school cooking class on how to fold pie crust edges. For some reason, I always thought pecan pie was difficult to make. But this one wasn't at all. The only thing you have to keep in mind is to give yourself time to let it stand for a few hours before serving.

Next, I obviously raced home and put up my Christmas decorations. Yes, these are more crappy Blackberry pictures, but bear with me. I'm making a point. The only problem with moving in by yourself is that you realize how little your tree looks without other acoutrements surrounding it.

And as I feel that I am Jewish in my soul, I was delighted to find this game to play on Hannukah.

Lastly, I accidentally ventured out on Black Friday. Unaware really of what day of the week it was (due to working so much...also, I'm usually just generally unaware of the date and time), I ventured to The Grove to take in ~~Showgirls 2~~ Burlesque. XTina, Cher, sparkles, and fast-paced dance numbers will thrill me to my grave, but to kill time before the show I wandered around and fell in love with this cross-body satchel from See by Chloe. It clearly needs to be a part of my daily life, wouldn't we look great together?

Share some of your Turkey Day recipes, Pilgrim/Native American outfits, or Black Friday horror stories!

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of VisforOlive, final photo by Checco Varese

Beverly Hills Fashion Festival

2010-11-13T09:57:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I went to the Beverly Hills Fashion Festival for a few runway shows, including Elie Tahari and William Rast.

With its ode to 'Easy Rider ' and upbeat choreographed dancing down the runway to open the show, William Rast was definitely my favorite. I'm such a sucker for any nod to Justin Timberlake's roots.

I drank a few too many blueberry-Stoli and 7-ups last night, and I am really proud of myself for even getting out of bed right now so please excuse my lack of written word. Hey, I was celebrating my BRAND NEW GROWN UP JOB (which causes me to be excited and go ALL KANYE on my keyboard), so no judging.

Teresa Rosati's (above photos) first show in the U.S. was nice, but lacked focus and originality. While there were some true stunners in the show, the blatant rip-off of Dolce and Gabbanna's "Marilyn" dress was shocking. The fun, 50's party frocks with a twist were the highlight of her collection, and she would've benefitted from spotlighting those designs.

The rest of the festival consisted of pop-up and gifting boutiques, food trucks from Sprinkles and the famed Grilled Cheese truck (the mac-and-cheese grilled cheese is so yum)!

These are witch booties I wish I owned from William Rast. I'm also obsessing over the ankle moccassin wedge-booties with turquoise and fur embellishments that I lacked to get a good shot of, but that are definitely engrained in my mind.

Your Golden Girl,

Olive

All photos property of V is for Olive, do not reuse without permission and/or proper credit

Wearing: (photos 11 and 13) Sheer black ruffle blouse with gold embroidery; thrifted, Black pencil skirt; Express, Black leather jacket; Bebe, Cotton and Velvet Ethnic Print Bag, SewTrendy on Etsy, Black lace tights; random hooker store on Hollywood Blvd., Black Mary-Janes; Chinese Laundry

Mother Mayhem

2010-11-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

My mother is a design genius who really should be the next Tory Burch. Case and point: please join me in drooling over these photos from her Halloween party that she just sent me.

And then mosy on over to her Etsy shop and join me in cursing the fact that I have no design skills whatsoever and everything I attempt to create turns into a pile of Elmer's glue and sequins. And not in a good way.

Some people have all the talent...

Your Golden Girl,

Olive